September - November 2014
Florida Creative Living
| For All Ages!
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Upcoming Events TAMPA, FLORIDA
FROM RUNAWAY TO THE RUNWAY FASHION SHOW SEPTEMBER 26, 26 2014 7PM-11PM
Miracles Outreach will be highlighting their youth who have completes the program, became self sufficient and productive citizen of the community, raise awareness on human trafficking and the factors. The funds raised DONATION: $55 PER TICKET will go to Miracles Outreach. See more at: MIRACLESOUTREACH.ORG
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
Mickey’s Not-SoScary Halloween Party September 1 to October 31, 2014 7pm - 12am
Don your favorite costume and get ready to trick-or-treat at this Halloween-themed event in Magic Kingdom park—select nights from 7:00 PM to midnight, September 1 to October 31, 2014!
See more at:
Admission: Starting at $62 for a one-day ticket
disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/magic-kingdom/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party/
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NAPLES, FLORIDA
SWAMP BUGGY RACES November 1-2 2014 Florida Sports Park
See more at:
Experience the world’s muddiest races as swamp buggy vehicles speed around the track known as the Mile O’ Mud. The Races, heralded as the World’s Muddiest, feature swamp buggies -- which range from standard Jeeps with snorkels to giant monsters with NASCAR racing engines -- navigating the famous Mile O’ Mud track. This figure-eight track is flooded with water, around 18 inches deep in most areas, but much deeper in the dreaded sippi holes, so as you can imagine it gets really messy.
www.thefloridasportspark.com
ORLANDO, FLORIDA
ICE AT THE GAYLORD PLAMS
November 15, 2014 - January 4, 2015 ICE! will return to the Gaylord Palms Resort again this year to chill and thrill guests as part of the resort’s holiday celebration. The holiday attraction is one of the coolest and most spectacular in the nation... and it happens in sunny Orlando, Florida.
See more at:
www.gaylordpalms.com
Admission: Discounted tickets are available online in advance ($14.99/
child 4-12; $26.99/senior 55+; $28.99/adult 13+). Box office tickets are $29.99 for adults (13+), $28.99 for seniors (55+), $16.99 for children (ages 4-12), and children ages 3 and under are free. Marriott rewards members save 20% on ICE!.
September -- November November 2014 2014 September
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Creative Living Sections Florida
September - November 2014
16th ISSUE
18 22 32 50
Hot Topics
Top Fall Movies Make it a Movie Night | pg 18-20 Art With A Purpose
Kenny Ruiz Owner of MagChop | pgs 22-25
Sold With Jackie Yougblood TLC Reality Star Buying Naked | pgs 32-34 Angel On My Shoulder On the Mission to Help Others | pgs 50-52 6
For All Ages! |
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In Every Issue
What Bugs You? pg 11 Pet of the Quarter pg 14 Community Spotlight pgs 36-38 Crossword & Sudoku Fun pgs 48-49 Business Directory pg 43 Va Memoirs pgs 50-52 Chef’s Delight pg 54 Technology pg 55
September - November 2014
Florida Creative Living
| For All Ages!
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Creative Living Adult Living Florida
September - November 2014
16th ISSUE
21 26 28 36 News
Home & Health
Ask Dr. June Q&A | pg 21
Diary Of A Parent
Can Your True Love Be Waiting Online? Online Dating | pgs 26-27 Get Your Kicks On Route 66 Kitchen Community Spotlight | pgs 28-31 Paying It Forward Community Spotlight | pgs 36-39
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Guiding Our Children | pgs 40-41
Sexy Gardening
Getting Fit While Having Fun | pg 42
Business
Recovering From Identity Theft Time Is Money | pgs 44-46
September - November 2014
Florida Creative Living
| For All Ages!
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Creative Living Kids & Teens Florida
September - November 2014
16th ISSUE
57 60 64 58 News
When Can I Go Out With Someone? Advice | pg 57 Fall Reads Top 6 Books | pg 59
Healthy Habits
What Kids Say About Being Busy Time For A Change? | pgs 60 -61
Staying Safe
Safe Internet Cyberspace Surfing Keep Your Privacy | pgs 62-63 10
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Science & Techno
Will Toothpaste Make A Pimple Go Away? Treatment Options | pg 64
Featured Artist
Dylan Maloy Save Our River! | pg 58
Doodle Corner
Win A Toys “R” Us $25 eGift Card Activity Center | pg 65
WHAT
BUGS
YOU?
Is there something in your life that bugs you? Maybe it's a construction project that never seems to end, a pothole everyone swerves to avoid, or an unaddressed safety concern. It could just be something such as a coworker chewing with their mouth wide open at lunch time. We want to hear about it! To share your concern, please fill out our form at floridacreativeliving.wufoo.com/forms/what-bugs-you/
M
y overnight package looks like they sent it through the washer and then ran over it.
I
Barbara K. - Sarasota, FL
made myself crazy getting here on time and he’s late…again. Lisa L. - Stuart, FL
P
P
lease move out of the aisle. Other passengers are trying to make their connecting flights.
P
Frank S. - Tampa, FL
eople who pass you when walking into a building and then don’t hold the door open. Marc M.- Vero Beach, FL
eople who honk at you from 8 cars back as soon as the light changes green! Patsy S.- Miami, FL
September - November 2014
Florida Creative Living
| For All Ages!
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Creative Living Florida
New Life In Progress
F
or those of you that have be keeping up with Florida Creative Living Magazine over the summer, then you know that I am along with a group of people have made it a mission to “TURN A NEW LEAF OVER” in our lives.
What is that new leaf you maybe asking? Well it’s simple, revaluate our lives and see where we can improve. You can say that everyday we turn a new leaf whether it’s related to family, health, home, and business. But, at times it seems difficult to follow through with that new leaf. Below are some helpful tips that will help you turn that new leaf over and keep it there. 1. In order to start this process you have to learn that there is no going back! You have to commit yourself to this task. So clear your mind. Make this a challenge. Make this a goal you have to accomplish. Make this a promise to yourself. 2. This is going to take 17 Days! It takes only 17 Days to make something a habit. I have three words for you that certainly changed my life and those three words are: Buy a planner or Use Your Cellphone! Get organized. 3.Do not procrastinate.
4. Be yourself. 5. Think before you act. 6. Put the end in mind. Some of you might think that living for the moment is the right way to go! But, if you prepare for the future your life will became less stressful. 7. Prioritize. Which basically comes to buying a planner or using your cellphone! 8. Stay Positivie. It may sound silly, but use the negative things people say to you to motivate you.
At Florida Creative Living we wish our readers a safe and wonderful Fall! Susan Gulash | susan@floridacreativeliving.com
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NATIONAL HOLIDAYS
Sept 1 Sept 7 Sept 23 Oct 13 Oct 31 Nov 2 Nov 11 Nov 27
Labor Day Grandparents’ Day Fall Begins Columbus Day Halloween Daylight Saving (End) Veteran’s Day Thanksgiving
To see a list of our advertisers calendar of events, please visit: floridacreativeliving.com/wordpress/event-calendar
DEADLINES
Issues Deadline September-November Aug 1, 2014 December-February Nov 1,2014 March-May Feb 1, 2015 June-August May 1, 2015
CONTACT
TEAM Susan Gulash | Publisher & Founder If you have a questions for our Publisher, please email susan@floridacreativeliving.com Brian Gulash | Radio Host Tune in every Thursday at 12pm EST on iheart.com or W4CY.com brian@floridacreativeliving.com Kellye Dash | Adversiting Sales For ad space and to have your business heard on our radio show email kellye@floridacreativeliving.com Chuck Johnson | Staff Writer VA Memoir, Entertainment, & Community Spotlight Sections chuck@floridacreativeliving.com Lisa Burns | Contributor
Florida Creative Living
PO Box 2735, Lutz, FL 33548
O: 813.994.5110 C: 813.458.1098 F: 813.200.1002
Home & Gardening and Repurposed Sections lisa@backyardgetaway.net Carolina Zacaria | Contributor
susan@FloridaCreativeLiving.com
Intuitive Spiritual Coach Section carolina@carolinazacaria.com Dr. June Hall | Contributor Motivational Coach l Ask Dr. June Section timetoapt@junehall.com
Florida Creative Living is a full-size, full-color, quarterly, online interactive magazine published four times a year by Gulash Graphics. It is distributed free of charge and no content is allowed to be reproduced in whole or part without written permission from Florida Creative Living. This publication is not responsible for statements made by advertisers or writers and is not necessarily the opinion of Florida Creative Living. Typographical errors, and the accuracy of information supplied by advertisers, or the action of the advertisers are not the publication and its publisher responsibility. Editorial submissions are welcome. Publisher reserves the right to reject or edit for length and clarity all submissions.
September - November 2014
Sherida Ferguson, CFP® | Contributor Financial Advisor l Business Section Sferguson@fscadvisor.com
Florida Creative Living
| For All Ages!
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PETof the Neo
Neo is a four month old Cocker Spaniel, who recently joined the household of Jenny and Chris Pitcock of Lutz, Florida. Neo joins a full grown Golden Retreiver named “Brewster” in the Pitcock household and has the energy of a full grown dog. Jenny explained that, “Brewster was high energy and we wanted a dog that could fit in well with him and Neo has filled that expectation. He loves to swim and has the energy. He is just a great dog.” The school children of Pasco County Florida who returned to school this last month have nothing on Neo. He starts puppy kindergarden in September. If you would like to have your pet featured in our next issue, send us an email to susan@floridacreativeliving.com with the subject line of “Pet of the Quarter”. Please, send a short 1-7 sentences description of your pet along with an image.
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Adult
Living
September - November 2014
Florida Creative Living
| For All Ages!
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The Jackie Youngblood Group Our goal is to help others achieve their dream of home ownership. It is important to us to stay up to date with real estate market trends and be knowledgeable about current procedures, especially with the large amount of short sales & foreclosures. Knowing this information enables us to help families figure out what is best for them during these trying times. Share your goals with us and in return we will share our success with you.
“It’s All About YOU and YOUR Real Estate Needs....We Make it Happen!” Jackie states, “With so many agents and REALTORS® in the real estate field, I realized I needed to “think outside the box” and immediately began targeting the nudist and clothing optional clientele. With Pasco County being the Nudist Capital of North America, this has been and continues to be a rewarding “out of the box” experience”.
Jackie Youngblood, Realtor®
Bill Youngblood, Realtor® & Transaction Coordinator 16
After moving her real estate licenses to Keller Williams Tampa Properties, Jackie began building The Jackie Youngblood Group. Today Jackie and her team maintain their position as a multi-million dollar team. She is a member of the Agent Leadership Council, governing board, in the Keller Williams Tampa Properties office.
Alexandra Dumrauf, Lead Buyer’s Agent
For ForAllAllAges! Ages!| www.FloridaCreativeLiving.com | www.FloridaCreativeLiving.com
Orlando Ayala, Buyer’s Agent
Miles Dorsey, Buyer’s Agent
Jackie Youngblood’s
FEATURED LISTINGS 3225 RUSSETT PL, LND O LK, FL 34638
11725 KENT GROVE DR, SH, FL 34610
6719 VISTA DEL LAGO AVE., LND O LK
A mixture of warm and cool colors brings elegance to this 6 bdrms, 4 brs, 4,293 sq. ft. home. Imagine raising your family in this spacious home secured by ironed gates and near schools, shopping & restaurants. MLS# T2710832 OFFERED AT $404,500
In the country and still conveniently located near shopping, restaurants. This 4 bdrms, 3 brs, 2,716 sq. ft. home sits among mature trees and exudes a welcoming and family feel. MLS# T2604636 OFFERED AT $279,500
FURNISHED at this PRICE! You have to be kidding! Beauty, Elegance and Charm all found in this lovely 3 bdrms, 2 brs, 2,301 sq. ft. villa located in the Caliente Nudist/Clothing Optional Resort. MLS# T2625062 OFFERED AT $330,000
6905 CANCUN CT, LND O LK, FL 34637
21054 LOS CABOS COURT, LND O LK
2424 DEKAN LANE, LND O LK, FL 34639
Working together to bring this 3/2/2, 2,536 sq. ft. home to life is ceramic tile, carpet, stainless steel appliances, beautiful ceiling fans, recess lighting and even a spiral staircase. MLS# T2706006 OFFERED AT $375,000
SELLERS WILL CONSIDER OWNER FINANCING. This 2/3/3, 2,193 sq. ft. Beautiful Courtyard home sitting on corner lot in the Nudist and Clothing Optional Resort of Caliente awaits you. MLS# T2631651 OFFERED AT $359,000
This 3/3/2 home sits on an oversized corner lot in the tranquil neighborhood of The Oasis. Newly bricked driveway walk ways patio and lanai.Community pool.Oasis is a Hybrid Nudist Community. MLS# T2629216 OFFERED AT $435,000
JACKIE YOUNGBLOOD | REALTOR®
Direct: (813) 477-7298 Fax: (813)315-6102 Keller Williams Tampa Properties 3450 Buschwood Park Drive, Tampa, FL 33618 Email:bjyoung320@gmail.com www.tampahomes4sell.com www.skiptheoutfit.com September - November 2014
Florida Creative Living || For For All All Ages! Ages!
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TOP FALL MOVIES SEPTEMBER 5, 2014 THE LONGEST WEEK An immature man-child still lives with his parents in a chic Manhattan hotel but suddenly finds himself evicted, disinherited and hopelessly in love with his best friend’s girlfriend.
SEPTEMBER 19, 2014 THE MAZE RUNNER
When Thomas wakes up trapped in a massive maze with a group of other boys, he has no memory of the outside world other than strange dreams about a mysterious organization known as W.C.K.D. Only by piecing together fragments of his past with clues he discovers in the maze can Thomas hope to uncover his true purpose and a way to escape.
SEPTEMBER 26, 2014 THE BOXTROLLS An orphaned boy raised by underground creatures called Boxtrolls comes up from the sewers and out of his box to save his family and the town from the evil exterminator, Arichibald Snatcher.
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OCTOBER 3, 2014 THE GOOD LIE
They were known simply as “The Lost Boys.” Orphaned by the brutal Civil war in Sudan that began in 1983, these young victims traveled as many as a thousand miles on foot in search of safety. Fifteen years later, a humanitarian effort would bring 3600 lost boys and girls to America. In The Good Lie, Philippe Falardeau brings the story of their survival and triumph to life.
OCTOBER 10, 2014
ALEXANDER AND THE TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE, NO GOOD, VERY BAD DAY
Follows the exploits of 11-year-old Alexander (Ed Oxenbould) as he experiences the most terrible and horrible day of his young life - a day that begins with gum stuck in his hair, followed by one calamity after another. But when Alexander tells his upbeat family about the misadventures of his disastrous day, he finds little sympathy and begins to wonder if bad things only happen to him. He soon learns he is not alone when his mom (Jennifer Garner), dad (Steve Carell), brother (Dylan Minnette), and sister (Kerris Dorsey) all find themselves living through their own terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. Anyone who says there is no such thing as a bad day just hasn’t had one.
OCTOBER 17, 2014 FURY
At the end of World War II, April 1945, the Allies make their final push in the European Theater, a battle-hardened army sergeant named Wardaddy (Pitt) commands a Sherman tank and his five-man crew on a deadly mission behind enemy lines. Outnumbered and outgunned, Wardaddy and his men face overwhelming odds in their attempt to strike at the heart of Nazi Germany.
September -- November November 2014 2014 September
Florida Creative Creative Living Living | | For For AllAll Ages! Ages! Florida
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NOVEMBER 7, 2014 BIG HERO 6 A computer-animated super hero film set in a fictional city called San Fransokyo. Hiro Hamada, the young prodigy, and his self-created robot, Baymax, uncover a criminal plot and must join a team of inexperienced crime fighters.
NOVEMBER 14, 2014 DUMB AND DUMBER TO
The plot will follow Harry Dunne and Lloyd Christmas 20 years later trying to track down one of their children.
NOVEMBER 21, 2014 THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY, PART 1 Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has survived the Hunger Games twice, but even though she’s made it out of the bloody arena alive, she’s still not safe. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge. President Snow makes it clear that no one is safe either -- not Katniss’s family, not her friends and not the people of District 12.
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k s A Dr. June
Adult Living | NEWS
Dear Dr. June: I’m 30 and single after 9 years of marriage, but I still haven’t dated for almost a year after the divorce. I finally decided it was time. My friends say I should go out and have a good time. My cousin told me to go on matchmaker.com or something to meet Mr. Right. I’m not sure what to do. I have never been much of a dater like dating more than one person at a time, but the thought of meeting someone online doesn’t make me feel comfortable either. Do you have any advice on what I can do? Signed Wind
Dear Wind: Just you sharing about your divorce in combination that you haven’t been much of a dater concerns me. It makes me wonder if you met him, dated him, married him, and oops… divorced him. Of course, not every marriage lasts, even if you dated multiple men. However, you surely need to meet and go out with different people to know what you want. If only I had a dollar for every time I heard, “I’m just not good at dating”, which tends to be said by the same people who can’t maintain a healthy relationship. What you should do is go out with friends, mingle, and meet different prospects. You should also get a hobby or two that involves where you can meet people that are interested in the same things that interest you. You should be open to meeting men at the grocery store or hardware store and go out with them in a safe environment. Most importantly, you should discover who you are and what qualities you want from a man before getting into another relationship. You certainly do not need to commit right away but learn how to date so you can find a good mate.
Dear Dr. June: I like my job and most of the people I work with. What I don’t like is sometimes people play games on this job, including my boss. I’ve been here almost two years because the pay is decent and the hours are good. Other than dumb stuff like giving me the meeting agenda 15 minutes before the meeting starts or changing schedules and conveniently forgetting to tell me, the job is okay. My question is what should I do if another job opportunity comes along? Should I leave my comfortable job where I already know the games they play or take a chance on something new? Anonymous Dear Anonymous: I don’t know if this is your first job, but I do know wherever you work there is someone who is trying to run game or there are other issues. So, that’s not the way to determine whether or not you should take advantage of another job opportunity. Also, I don’t believe in getting caught up in a comfort zone. If you have the chance to advance your career and kindle your mind, professionally and not through the “dumb stuff”, you should rise to the challenge. Play the game of chess… the career version, to determine the strategic moves that will lead you to checkmate. This move should stimulate you mentally, financially, and professionally. Now that’s a chance worth taking.
Time to APT with Dr. June Hall Follow me on Facebook Dr. June Hall
Dr. June Hall
September - November 2014
For information about my events check my web site www.JuneHall.com
Florida Creative Living
| For All Ages!
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Art With A Purpose By Susan Gulash
Photo Provided by Brandi Maria Copeland -BMC Photography
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Adult Living | FEATURED ARTIST hen God places a passion in your heart for something better in life, it not always starts with you. Artist Kenny Ruiz mother Mary Maldonado felt this way, and wanted the best for her children. She feared the worst living in Chicago and was concerned that they would be led into the wrong path in life. After finding
out that Kenny joined a gang in Chicago at age 12, she decided that it was at the best interest for her and her five children to move to Florida. Kenny stated, “With my parents divorce when we were just becoming teens It was rough on us kids. So, that’s when we were spending time on the streets.” Soon after, Kenny along with his siblings where shipped to Florida to live with their Aunt Mini until 3 months later their mother could join them. A year later Kenny’s mother Mary purchased a house, and was happy to have a fresh start and opportunities for her children to flourish. After finishing High School Kenny moved back to Chicago, but later return to Florida after being shot at. At a young age, Kenny was drawn to art, but never pictured himself being an artist. It wasn’t until in the last couple of years that he put together his first portrait called, “First Impression”. Soon friends where asking where did he buy that portrait? His simply reply was, “I made that”. Kenny’s friends were all amazed and started asking him if he could make one for them. It wasn’t until five years later when his Mother Mary, had passed from battling lung cancer for 6 months that he went back to making one of a kind portraits. Kenny said, “When my Mother passed I fell into a great depression, and I realized that I needed to do something. I have a wife and kids to support. That’s when I started creating my portraits, and soon realized it was a form of therapy.” Kenny knows in his heart that his mother made the right decision to move to Florida, and is grateful for having the opportunity to live 4 doors down from his mother’s house. Kenny said, “I bought it there because I wanted to be close to her. She was my best friend. I would walk up the street for salt or something and be there for hours talking with her.” CONTINUE TO NEXT PAGE
September - November 2014
Kenny and his Mother Mary on his wedding day. Florida Creative Living
| For All Ages!
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Adult Living | FEATURED ARTIST
Tell me a little about MagChop, and why it inspired you to start creating these unique masterpieces? I was working for an art company and was very intrigued by what people hang on the walls to define who they are and what they like. I wanted something personal to hang in my home, something that defined who I am and I created the piece named "First Impression." I hung it up in my house, and I often thought of making another one but did not start until my mother passed away. I found it therapeutic to spend time in what everyone knows as "Da Bear's Room" listening to oldies music such as Temptations, Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder, Santana etc. I enjoyed this music with my mom. That along with the good and bad in my life went into each piece. Mostly, what you're looking at is me healing.
Top left Brother Mario, Mother Mary, Kenny Bottom Left Sisters Alyssa, Anita, Denise
Are you currently working on any new piece (Ladies Touch)? I am working on a piece called "Ladies Touch." It is the first one I named before I started. I usually name them later, but this one is special, it is a representation and a tribute to the beauty I see in women. I am looking forward to finishing it.
How long did your mother battle lung cancer? My mother battled cancer for 6 months, and a battle it was. She was the anchor of our family and as a family; we were by her side until her final breath. How long have you been an artist? Funny hearing this question because I never thought of myself as a real artist. I did receive "Most Artistic" in High School and since my art was graffiti, I took the yearbook picture with a can of spray paint! So I guess the answer is since 8th grade when I started running the Chicago subways. What is your favorite piece of work that you have created? To me my best is "First Impression" it is my favorite. It's not the most popular but other artist seem to like it. I worked on it for four months. 24
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Twisted Dreams
CONTINUE TO NEXT PAGE
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
started as a way to heal from our losing mom. I guess I am a little bias in that dept.
I still have my comic collection from when I was a kid. I still buy the specialty releases and issues to add to or complete sets.
How many siblings do you have?
If someone wanted to buy one of your pieces of artwork how would they? You can purchase from www.MagChop.com is the address. I offer many deals throughout the year with promo codes and sales. What else should we know about you and your artwork? I didn’t make these pieces with the intention of ever reproducing or selling them. They are more than just a hobby, they are passion in picture, emotions and ideas, and a depiction of how I see things and I never thought anyone would like them because they are so personal. I was surprised to see how many people related to them and appreciated the way they were put together. They are my way of both celebrating and coping with life. Do you have any tips or inspiring words for others? Do what you love and love what you do… Life is great, but it will get rough. So I will use the words my mom left for before she passed.
I have 5 sisters and 4 brothers. My oldest sister Tanya is a home school teacher for her children, my sister Denise owns Madre De Perla Designs in Chicago, my older brother Airto just graduated college .... my oldest of the younger siblings is Anita who is a dean at a high school and a photographer, then there is my brothers Robert and David who sing in Blu.Line. next my sister Alyssa who is an M.A. and continues medical school. My brother Mario works for Charter schools of America while my sister Vanessa is a nurse in Chicago. My youngest sister Katerina is just getting into high school. Although we are not all from one mom and dad I see them all as 100% siblings. What are your goals for the future both work wise and life? I will always do everything to provide for my family, that is my priority. With faith and hard work I hope to work MagChop full time and be large enough to hire people and give back to the community and local economy. I want to leave a positive legacy and be known for helping people reach their goals. Photo Provided by Brandi Maria Copeland -BMC Photography
“Ride the storm, feel the pain. Cry, then get up! Heal and live.” Do you admire any artist/ Photographers? I feel like I admire everyone! When I go to car shows and even if I win the contest, I still notice the little tedious touches, and appreciate the attention to detail. I also follow several collage artists on Instagram and really admire the creativeness and fantasy worlds they create. I especially admire the artist who draw and paint. It to me is the hardest form. Robert and David my brothers in Chicago who sing in a duo called Blu Line. I must admit I do admire one photographer I know personally, and she just happens to be my sister. Since I was a boy we used to always rely on her shot to capture the moment... Before there was “Kodak moments”, Top left Wife Noemi, Kenny there was my sisters eye. My oldest sister Denise Bottom Left Daugther Secilia and Son also does her own art, she has a small company in Kenneth Jr. Chicago called Madre De Perla Designs, which also September - November 2014 Florida Creative Living | For All Ages! 25
Adult Living | NEWS
By Michelle Creter
O
nline dating can be great if you know how to go about it the right way. It has allowed people in less populous areas to meet people that they never would have otherwise, and helped create lifelong couples. It’s also great for people who are just getting into the dating game again after awhile. It’s a very nonthreatening way to get to know someone, without the pressure of meeting face to face for a while. And the benefits are progressing every day. Time (http://time.com/2900033/online-dating-facial-recognition-match-three-day-rule/) just released word that Match.com is coming out with a program that will allow users to find a partner based on a photograph. So, if you use the photograph of a celebrity, your friend, and ex, whoever, the program will then recommend other users on the site who look like the person you submitted. While that may sound a little creepy, there are more serious concerns to address when you decide to try online dating. But with the
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proper precautions, you can avoid a negative experience. Some are more obvious, such as meeting for the first time in a public place or being honest in your profile description. But what’s just as important to be careful about is how you approach the topic of physical intimacy for the first time. When you meet someone online, chances are you’ve had more of a chance to talk and get to know them before meeting in person. It’s understandable that the increased communication could lead you to feel closer to them and trust them more. However, that doesn’t mean you should risk your health when you both decide that you’re ready to get intimate with one another. The best way to protect yourself is by making sure that you’re taking all precautions ahead of time, which starts with what kind of online dating system you decide to use. Studies have actually found that you run a higher risk if you use a dating app. Daily Mail (http:// www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2656326/ Dating-using-smartphone-app-makes-likelyCONTINUE TO NEXT PAGE
STD.html) even posted a study conducted by a sexual health clinic in Los Angeles that found a link between using dating apps and the increased likelihood of contracting an STD. The article cited that the increase was because “smartphone apps make it easier to meet potential partners more quickly than online or more traditional methods, thereby boosting the chances of anonymous and riskier encounters.” People who used a dating apps were reportedly 23% more likely to get gonorrhea and 35% more likely to get chlamydia. It’s important for people new to online dating to understand that some apps are designed with the specific purpose to connect people who want to meet specifically for sex—not relationships. By avoiding apps like this and being sexually safe, you can greatly decrease your chances of catching an STD. Adam and Eve(http://www.adameve.com/tae-safer-sex-guide.aspx) marks several things to consider for “safer sex” because, as they wrote, “by no means, is all lovemaking totally safe.” To significantly decrease the risks, they suggest discussing sexual history, defining boundaries, and contemplating dangers. Finally, always, always use protection. No matter how much you may trust your new partner, they can be unaware that they’re infected. Of course, you also both want to prevent any unwanted pregnancies. Discussing condoms and sexual health with your new partner might not seem romantic, you can avoid any awkward disappointment in the heat of the moment if your partner has a latex allergy or a condition that you should know about ahead of time.
Every Thursday @ 12pm EST.
Don’t let some of the concerns of online dating sour you on the idea in general. Online dating can be a great way to meet your next partner. As long as you’re safe, it can be one of the best things you ever do for yourself. Who knows, maybe Mr. or Mrs. Right is out there—he or she is just waiting for you to take the plunge! Author Bio: Michelle Creter is a blogger and freelance writer. She loves spending time at the beach, fashion, and good southern BBQ.
View our past shows by visiting http://www.iheart.com/talk/show/26933259
September - November 2014
Florida Creative Living
| For All Ages!
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Adult Living | NEWS
GET YOUR KICKS ON
By Chuck Johnson
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For For AllAll Ages! Ages! | | www.FloridaCreativeLiving.com www.FloridaCreativeLiving.com
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Route 66 Crew
Chef Neil Goldstein ,Chef Paul Fisher, Jessica Alexander, and Greg Sibbee e have all experienced the feeling of waking up and having the time and opportunity to travel about the community to an ideal location to experience the perfect breakfast.
up awaiting the opportunity to place an order.
Recently I learned of a location which was somewhat different and nostalgic to have a meal and experience the atmosphere of being ‘back in time’. Therefore one Monday morning I traveled to Lutz, Florida which is located just somewhat north of Tampa to view the ‘red trolly’ as many had informed me about. Formerly it is known as ‘Route 66 Kitchen and Dining Car’ located at 18801 North Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz, Fl.
How did the ‘Red Trolly’ arrive at this location? The co-owners Greg Skibbee and Paul Fisher who were pleased to give me the history. They explained the decision to create the trolly came about some seven months ago when with the destruction of his boat which left Greg with no hobby.
It is not difficult to find as the bright red trolly car stands out as well as was the vintage black and white Ford police car parked nearby with a paint design which clearly took me back to the days of ‘Mayberry RFD’ on television with Sheriff Andy Griffith walking with a fishing pole over his shoulder. There was ample room to park and apparently the word has spread as customers were already lined
While it may not be the most spacious inside, the trolly is exceptionally clean and the service was excellent.
When speaking with Greg it is obvious he has to have a ‘project’ to work on and his idea to create the trolly which would serve food to the public soon came into focus. Locating the 1986 GMC diesel in Paris, TX he had it shipped to Daytona, Florida where he embarked on a return trip to Lutz, Fl. “Little did I realize that driving this
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Adult Living | NEWS 34 foot trolly on a major interstate at only 50 MPH would be such a harrowing trip. The vehicle had a speed device on it which only would let it go 50 MPH so I had a slow return back to Lutz but we made it”. Over the next few weeks the trolly was slowly transformed with the ideas which both Greg and Paul had in mind with the assistance of several friends and contractors. ‘We wanted it to be nostalgic” Paul related. “We wanted people to like the atmosphere and the food as well. So far that has been the result”. When asked who created the idea of the ‘Route 66’ theme,Greg explained, “anyone who drove a car especially back in the 60’s and traveled from say Chicago to Los Angeles and you rode on Route 66 that was a cool thing and when you enter the diner it will remind you of those days and the good times”. The song Route 66 a popular song was composed by songwriter Bobby Troup who wrote it in 1946 during his travels from Pennsylvania to Los Angeles. While at the trolly which truly stands out in the bright red splendid color alongside Dale Mabry Blvd, if you take a moment and view the items on the interior it will take you back in time. While seating is somewhat limited plans are still in the making for more outside tables. The Route 66 Kitchen and Dining Car is open seven days a week from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm daily and 8:30 to 2:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday. It is a good idea to check with them by calling (813) 949-5370 on weekends to avoid the rush. The menu is extensive and reasonable in price. Paul explained, “I would say the three fastest moving items we have are the Reuben,Monte Cristo and Cuban sandwiches which move well at noon, however our breakfast menu is
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www.route66.kitchen 813.949.5370 Monday-Friday 8:30am - 3:00pm Saturday - Sunday 8:30am - 2:00pm
extensive and the public seems to like our pancakes bacon and eggs.” Adjacent to the trolly is the ‘Mail Depot’ which is supervised by Jessica Alexander. “I have seen the hard work they have put into this project and now that it is open for business the local community loves it and it is a great addition to right next to my Fed Ex business. I saw them working twelve hour days to build the trolly. We are glad it came out so nice”. Inside the Mail Depot are three tables and bench’s removed from the trolly which provide additional seating. Greg went on to explain, “We have plans for expansion here however we have to tackle one project at a time”. Plans for the future? As Greg explained he has plans to expand this project which has been a success here to New York, Orlando and the Florida Keys. When asked why he smiled and replied, “Because people want to remember the good times.” Speaking to Diana Cooper from Land O’ Lakes who was exiting the trolly with fresh coffee in hand she voiced her opinion. “I like it, it’s different…It’s real retro. I like that”. During the interview Greg was asked about three small flags on a simple wood platform on a table which displayed the American flag and two flags which symbolized the return of POW’s. When asked about the flags he replied “that was given to us by a veteran who we gave food to one evening, as he could not afford any.” That said it all. So,as the song go’s: If you ever plan to motor west...Just take my way, that’s the highway that’s the best...Get your kicks on Route 66. Oh, did we mention...also get your coffee at the Route 66 Kitchen and Dining Car . Route 66...You can’t get more American then that.
September - November 2014
Florida Creative Living
| For All Ages!
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Adult Living | NEWS
son
By Chuck John
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ForAllAllAges! Ages!| www.FloridaCreativeLiving.com | www.FloridaCreativeLiving.com For
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he sounds like the famous Chef Paula Dean. Her southern drawl clearly makes it known to all that she is a southern girl and quickly will identify Jackie Youngblood, Real Estate Agent from Statesboro Georgia, grandmother and now a full time resident of Land O’ Lakes Florida where she will be quick to inform you that ‘we have the perfect home for you’ and ‘skip the outfit and live the lifestyle’.
What makes Jackie and her occupation stand out among the rest is the fact that she sells homes to nudists. Being a nudist for some time it seemed only natural that she and her husband would relocate to Pasco County known to many as the ‘Nudist Capitol of the World’. We met Jackie as she prepared for her recent participation on a web talk show with ‘Florida’s Creative Living’ magazine and found she did not enter the field of Real Estate until 2004. Knowing others who desire to living in ‘clothing optional’ neighborhoods such as Caliente, Lake Como and Paradise Lakes to name a few, upon entering the Real Estate field she found that those who were looking for property felt very comfortable in discussions with her while absent clothing. Jackie was quick to mention that, “That is not to mean that I conduct real estate transactions in the nude. I am always professional and dress appropriately. I do work with those who are non-nudists and quite frankly my position on nudists and real estate has been very positive. Everyone should realize that just because some desire to live within a community where clothing is optional means that is their desire. Nudists are the same as everyone else in this world. They just are absent clothing. I get involved with my clients,I want the best for my clients and I want them to be able to depend on me.” In 2012 an article on her real estate transactions to nudists caught the eye of a television production company in New York which currently produce such programs as ‘Buying Alaska’, ‘Buying Hawaii’ and others all of which deal in buyers looking to be involved in real estate transactions. The idea was proposed to have a television program created titled ‘Buying Naked’ which would feature Jackie while she displayed property for sale. In 2013 she was contacted and after some long discussions within the family agreed. Production took place, the program was created which has aired on TLC to favorable comments and Jackie quickly become a reality television personality. A review of the program revealed that it is no different then others broadcast today such as ‘Naked in the Wild’ . Participants are filmed in an obvious naked state however the filming is done in a manner which is tasteful and would not be offense to the viewer or the Federal Communications Commission. We will have to admit that the positioning of objects which block out certain parts of the human anatomy were creative.
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Adult Living | NEWS “At the present time the producers are looking at continuing the series however we just have to be patient and wait for them to work out the final production schedule and ideas”, she stated. Jackie was also quick to point out that “It is not as simple as many may think. One scene may take hours to get it right therefore you have to have a lot of patience. I never dreamed I would be involved in a television reality show. We all wanted it to be a program people would enjoy and I think we accomplished that.” In a recent survey conducted for this article it was found that many residents from across Florida were aware of the program and it was received in a positive manner. One thing about Jackie Youngblood. If you are looking for a person who is upbeat, positive, with a great southern accent that makes you feel like you are on a porch of a plantation mansion sipping lemonade and want to discuss Real Estate, with or without clothing, she is the person. When asked as to her future plans she was not hesitant. “Continue to sell Real Estate and work with the local community which is truly great. Our business has improved greatly and we have seen such an improvement in the growth of the community here and the people who live here are so nice. I get great support from my husband and my Real Estate team. With all that who would want to leave a great place like Land O’ Lakes.” The words ‘Buying Naked’ have now taken on a new meaning for Jackie Youngblood, Real Estate Agent and nudist, however the word that means the most is the word ‘SOLD’. If you didn’t get a chance to hear our show with Jackie Youngblood visit www.iheart.com/talk/ show/26933259/?episode_id=26976047
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TLC CREW BUYING NAKED
Top left Devin Mueller, Camden Mueller Bottom left Alexandra Leigh , Jackie Youngblood, and Chandler Whidden
Jackie Youngblood can be reached by calling(813) 477-7298 or on the web at www.tampahomes4sell.com
September - November 2014
Florida Creative Living
| For All Ages!
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Adult Living | COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
Paying It Forward By Chuck Johnson
Dr. Joseph Ertel aka “Dr.E” operates with the assistance of Vet Tech Kaely Alexander. 36 36
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e all love our pets and desire to insure they are well taken care of . We often learn of situations where a stray cat or dog has shown up on the doorstep or back porch searching for food and love as their previous owner has abandoned them. While some may ignore the animal I have learned that the large majority of pet lovers will attempt to assist the animal or even make them a member of their family. However in many cases the person who finds the animal does not have the financial resources to insure the animal receives the medical care, shots or spay/neuter that is required for that animal to live a healthy life. That is where Planned Pethood in Zepheryhills,Florida come into the situation. Created some five years ago Planned Pethood was the inspiration of Cindy and Joe Evers who after selling their business in Tampa,Fl embarked on a mission to provide a location where a pet owner could bring their pet for treatment and medicine at a price they could afford. It is no secret that a trip to any veterinarian office in todays world can be an expensive proposition however without fanfare many veterinarians put the care and treatment of the animal first and payment later. Mrs. Evers related “ I would not be truthful if I told you we provide our services for free. We do have a fee however it is very reasonable as well as the medications and we have not raised our prices in five years. However we must be realistic and we have thirteen employees we have to pay, supplies to purchase and the other items as well. It is not an operation that pays on it’s own. We depend a lot on donations like any other non profit organization. However with that said, the animal who enters these doors comes first because we are here for the animals. It is that simple.� CONTINUE TO NEXT PAGE
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Adult Living | COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT Prior to operating at their present location 37814 State Road 54 in Zepheryhills, Fl, the office was located on Gall Blvd a short distance away. Cindy Evers explained that “Renting that location was fine however we soon realized the volume of business we were experiencing required a larger building and we moved to where we are now. Our present location allows more operating room space, storage space, a great waiting room area and is exactly what we required.” She explained that there is a need to make sure that the pet population is controlled and provided information that proved her point. A million cats is a lot of cats and we were surprised to learn how quickly two cats can multiply and become such a large number which can reach that number. Mrs. Evers explained that if you allow two cats to breed at will-then allow the offspring to breed at will you will have thousands of cats within a decade. This is calculating that the cats have two litters per year and an estimated three cats per litter that survive.
No one desires to see an animal destroyed however due to the large animal population in Florida it is reported that thousands of animals are destroyed each year. It appears we could do better and Planned Pethood is obviously doing their part. During a tour of Planned Pethood a licensed veterinarian clinic, we observed a busy operating room where Doctor Joseph Ertel known to the staff as ‘Dr.E” and his vet technician Kaely Alexander were busy performing an operation on a cat while another cat lay on a preparation table nearby waiting his turn under the watchful eye of other technicians and sleeping peacefully with the assistance of anesthesia. On a soft pillow nearby lay a small dog looking dazed and obviously coming out of anesthesia under the watchful eye of another vet tech. An adjacent room held several cats also waiting their turn with ‘Dr E’. It was obvious that this day like all others is a busy day. In speaking to several who brought their pets to Planned Pethood for treatment all were anxious to express their views on how pleased they were with the treatment of their pets. Debra Troyer from Dade City drives a considerable distance to Planned Pethood and stated, “I love this place,they are all so friendly, the cost is less and they treat my pets well.”
Dogs are no different. A unsprayed female dog, her mate and all their puppies, if none are neutered or spayed can add up to 512 dogs in a period of just three years. Over the past four years Planned Pethood has completed over 16,000 neuter-spay operations on animals all at a very reasonable cost due to the fact they are non-profit in an attempt to slow the tide of pets which are or become homeless. Therefore when we hear the request to spay and neuter your pets, there is a reason.
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Denise Collins of Zepheryhills, Fl brought her dog ‘Banjo’ to the clinic. She related, “I am impressed. I brought Banjo here and they diagnosed his medical problem which other clinics did not. I am thankful for them and very pleased with their care and treatment of him”. CONTINUE TO NEXT PAGE
During our visit it is obvious that this clinic does serve the community and it’s pets well. Evers quickly pointed out that the success of the clinic is due in large part to the employees who care greatly for the pets and the owners. Evers took a deep breath and stated “Our employees are the best. They really step up and that is what has made us a success. I did not start this venture to make more money, I started it to help the animals which we all love. If we can succeed in doing that, I’ll be happy.” Barabara Diabo client of Planned Pethood with her dog Bella
Barbara Diabo who with her dog Bella has visited the clinic before for grooming and other medical problems simply replied “They are excellent. I have been to other locations and highly recommend Planned Pethood. I have two dogs and bring them both here”.
Planned Pethood is paying it forward to the animals and the community by offering pet owners a haven to get an animal proper treatment. We congratulate them for their efforts and are proud to mention them in the Community Spotlight portion of this issue of Florida Creative Living.
As mentioned donations are welcome at Planned Pethood in order to keep costs as low as possible,however other items are needed and welcomed as well. Cotton balls, pill bottles for prescriptions, clean towels, paper towels and office paper are always welcome items.
od in o h t e ned P s can be n a l P sist ll animal s a o t ns lp a o e i t h a o n t Do nt to: fforts e e s r i e th
od o h t e P d e n Plan7815 State Road 54
3 , Fl 33542 Zepheryhills at(813) 779-7000 call them or you may
September - November 2014
Florida Creative Living
| For All Ages!
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Adult Living | HOME & HEALTH
f O y r a i D t n e r a P A
I
By Carolina Zacaria
grew up thinking that as the children of God, we are here for the purpose of growing and reproducing, or as it is said, “Be fruitful and multiply.” I thought that deciding not to do so was an abomination before the eyes of God. For this reason, like many, I embarked upon the journey of being parent, and soon I found myself the mother of three beautiful children. After all, if you don’t have kids, it is almost as if you are viewed as a failure by our society.
is once again a great misunderstanding by the great human nation. What if the real meaning behind this phrase is that everything on Earth shall grow, not just biologically, but in terms of wisdom as well. Maybe once we are at that level of wisdom that we all must achieve, then it becomes our mission as souls on our path of life to reproduce. Reproduction is not merely a physical act, it is also the reproduction of wise souls becoming ignitors for others that, like we once were, are yearning for their right to wisdom. Can you imagine that?
Now, at 39 years of age, I am looking at the world through the eyes of wisdom, and I am able to see that perhaps the “Be fruitful and multiply” ideal that was once taught to me
Can you understand the gravity of this interpretation? If this is the more accurate meaning for this phrase, do you understand the
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great sin that we have been committing throughout human history? Nature is my teacher. Look around and see the wild cats and how they reproduce so quickly that at times even the city needs to interfere, either by killing them or neutering them so they cannot reproduce. We humans understand that these actions are the right ones in order to keep this species under control because otherwise, they would interfere with the well-being of the whole. And I wonder, who does this for our species? Who does this for us humans who, like the plague, reproduce with no end in sight. We destroy trees and force other species to leave their homes for the sake of our needs for new cities and shelters. We do this because we believe it is the right thing to do. It is through nature that God speaks to us, not through the minds of others. Nature teachers us how we should live our lives, but we sinners keep ‘missing the mark,’ generation after generation. Can you imagine, hundreds of years from now, what life will be like if we continue to overpopulate the planet? Let’s saythat this all is justified somehow by the concept “Be fruitful and multiply.” Perhaps back in those times when there were just a few, this was something for us to consider, but we turned it into law and continue to follow it without understanding the true universal laws. Look at the way we do things – we abandon our children and abuse them because we have so many, forcing the eldest to take care of the young. We take away their childhood because it is too much for us; we force our children to become parents in the absence of our roles as parents. Then we wonder why there is so much chaos on Earth. We don’t understand why there is so much substance abuse, sexual assault, crime, and misery. And then we blame God. We wonder why God would allow these bad things to happen in the world. Let me tell you something – God doesn’t. God gives us free will and it is we who keep deciding to create what we witness in the news
every single day. It is not God, it is us. I am now a dedicated mother of three children and I am far from perfect, but as a parent, I am growing wiser as they too continue to grow wiser as human beings. I am accepting my mission of guiding these souls that I chose to bring into Earth. After all, it is exactly that – a choice. This is the reality we have created on Earth. We have created contraceptives and now it is our decision, not nature’s, to bring children into this world. We have the knowledge, we can take the necessary precautions. Yet we steadfastly hold on to a belief that keeps us from contraceptives because we think it is wrong in the eyes of God and that it is right for us to reproduce the way we do. That’s not even to mention those that, out of negligence or illusion, have decided to bring souls into this world. You, reading these lines, tell me how it could be wrong in the eyes of God for us to avoid procreation and yet right for us to reproduce beings condemned to live in misery, responsible for their younger siblings, missing their chance at a real childhood. Really? Not even the babies of any animal imaginable have the obligation to look after their siblings, and yet we think it is okay for us to do this to our babies. I am choosing to guide these three souls through life the best that I can and as one of my biggest lessons, I will remind my children that reproduction is not just biological, that we can choose not to procreate if we feel that we are not ready to do so yet. I will remind them that we can procreate by passing our knowledge, that we can reproduce with a light so bright that it will ignite many, and those many will be our children throughout our walk on Earth. Carolina Zacaria & Spiritual Healing Sounds Follow me on Facebook Carolina Zacaria For information about my events check my web site Carolina Zacaria www.carolinazacaria.com
September - November 2014
Florida Creative Living
| For All Ages!
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Adult Living | HOME & HEALTH
Sexy
There are healing effects too. People who are recovering from an injury or physical ailment will notice improved coordination and renewed strength. Physical therapists have been known to use gardening as therapy to renew damaged muscles. If you are injured or have physical ailments, it is always important to check with your physician before starting any form of exercise.
By Lisa Burns
Gardening
B
end, twist, push, grunt... squat, reach, pull, grunt...
That is my work out, no not at the gym but in my garden. Although you may not feel sexy working out in the garden wearing old sweats and covered in dirt but try changing your gym workout to a garden workout and watch the results both physically and mentally. Not to mention all the tasty veggies and fruits your garden will yield for your new healthier diet. It is time to say goodbye to boring exercises and pick up a shovel and start sexy gardening. Did you know that researchers estimate that gardening burns on average 300 calories per hour and digging burns twice the calories 42
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per minute over biking and aerobic workouts at the gym? The best part is that everyone, young and old, men and women will benefit from gardening and anyone can do it. Strength, endurance and flexibility are all key elements of your gardening workout. From weeding to turning over the soil to raking leaves, you will get a complete workout! Of course, to feel the full effects you have to unplug the leaf blower and electric trimmers, pick up a rake and bend to pick the weeds.
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Not only is gardening, with all the colors and soothing aromas, good for you physical health it is a wonderful form of stress management and promotes a sense of mental well-being. Studies prove that spending time in nature can lower blood pressure, reduce stress and is more effective at reducing cortisol (stress hormones) levels than if you stayed inside reading a book. Therapists are using gardening as a tool to help those suffering from depression and stroke. To achieve the full benefit try sticking to a regular routine in the garden just as you would the gym. Instead of spending all day Saturday, spend 30 minutes a day three times a week in the garden. Be sure to follow the same safety tips too. Stretch before and cool down after. Remember to lift with your knees, drink plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun.
Lisa Burns Backyard Getaway For information visit backyardgetawayponds.com
Adult Living | BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Tampa, FL
The Jackie Youngblood Group
Real Estate Agency
O:813.477.7298 bjyoung320@gmail.com www.tampahomes4sell.com facebook.com/ jackieyoungbloodgroup
Lutz, FL
Lutz, FL Design Firm
www.gulashgraphics.com facebook.com/gulashgraphics twitter.com/GulashGraphics
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“You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy local, and that’s kind of the same.”
~ Author Unknown
September September - - November November 2014 2014
Florida Florida Creative Creative Living Living| |For ForAllAllAges! Ages!
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Prepared by Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc, Copyright 2014
Y
ou’ve read about it, and you thought it would never happen to you. But suddenly your bank account is empty, your credit card bills are through the roof, and you’re getting late notices for accounts you don’t own. Your identity has been stolen. What now?
Time is money To minimize your losses, act fast. Contact, in this order: • Your credit card companies • Your bank • The three major credit bureaus • Local, state, or federal law enforcement authorities Your credit card companies Credit card companies are getting better at detecting fraud; in many cases, if they spot activity outside the mainstream of your normal card usage, they’ll call you to confirm that you made the charges. But the responsibility to notify them of lost or stolen cards is still yours.
Follow up your initial creditor contacts with letters indicating the date you reported the loss or theft. Watch your subsequent monthly statements from the creditor; if any fraudulent charges appear, contest them in writing. Your bank If your debit (ATM) card is lost or stolen, you won’t be held responsible for any unauthorized withdrawals if you report the loss before it’s used. Otherwise, the extent of your liability depends on how quickly you report the loss. • If you report the loss within two business days after you notice the card is missing, you’ll be held liable for up to $50 of unauthorized withdrawals. (If the card doubles as a credit card, you may not be protected by this limit.)
If you do so in a reasonable time (within 30 days afteryou discover the loss), you won’t be responsible formore than $50 per card in fraudulent charges. Ask that the accounts be closed at your request, and open new accounts with password protection.
• If you fail to report the loss within two days after you notice the card is missing, you can be held responsible for up to $500 in unauthorized withdrawals.
If an identity thief opens new accounts in your name, you’ll need to prove it wasn’t you who opened them. Ask the creditors for copies of application forms or other transaction records to verify that the signature on them isn’t yours.
• If you fail to report an unauthorized transfer or withdrawal that’s posted on your bank statement within 60 days after the statement is mailed to you, you risk unlimited loss.
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If your checkbook is lost or stolen, stop payment on any outstanding checks, then close the account and open a new one. Dispute any fraudulent checks accepted by merchants in order to prevent collection activity against you. The three major credit bureaus If your credit cards have been lost or stolen, call the fraud number of any one of the three national credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You need to contact only one of the three; the one you call is required to contact the other two. Next, place a fraud alert on your credit report. If your credit cards have been lost or stolen, and you think you may be victimized by identity theft, you may place an initial fraud alert on your report. If you become a victim of identity theft (an existing account is used fraudulently or the thief opens new credit in your name), you may place an extended fraud alert on your credit report once you file a report with a law enforcement agency. Once a fraud alert has been placed on your credit report, any user of your report is required to verify your identity before extending any existing credit or issuing new credit in your name. For extended fraud alerts, this verification process must include contacting you personally by telephone at a number you provide for that purpose. Most states now allow you to “freeze” your credit report. (In the few that don’t, the credit bureaus allow state residents to freeze their reports voluntarily.) Once you freeze your report, no one--creditors, insurers, and even potential employers--will be allowed access to your credit report unless you “thaw” it for them.
Adult Living | BUSINESS To freeze your credit report, you must contact all three major credit reporting agencies. In many cases, victims of identity theft are not charged a fee to freeze and/or thaw their credit reports, but the laws vary from state to state. Contact the office of the attorney general in your state for more information. If you discover fraudulent transactions on your credit reports, contest them through the credit bureaus. Do so in writing, and provide a copy of the identity theft report you file. You should also contest the fraudulent transaction in the same fashion with the merchant, bank, or creditor who reported the information to the credit bureau. Both the credit b u r e a u s and those who provide information to them are responsible for correcting fraudulent information on your credit report,and for taking pains to assure that it doesn’t resurface there. Law enforcement agencies While the police may not catch the person who stole your identity, you should file a report about the theft with a federal, state, or local law enforcement agency. Once you’ve filed the report, get a copy of it; you’ll need it in order to file an extended fraud alert with the credit bureaus. You may also need to provide it to banks or creditors before they’ll forgive any unauthorized transactions.
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Adult Living | BUSINESS When you file the report, give the law enforcement officer as much information about the crime as possible: the date and location of the loss or theft, information about any existing accounts that have been compromised, and/or information about any new credit accounts that have been opened fraudulently. Write down the name and contact information of the investigator who took your report, and give it to creditors, banks, or credit bureaus that may need to verify your case. If the theft of your identity involved any mail tampering (such as stealing credit card offers or statements from your mailbox, or filing a fraudulent change of address form), notify the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. If your driver’s license has been used to pass bad checks or perpetrate other forms of fraud, contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. If you lose your passport, contact the U.S. Department of State. Finally, if your Social Security card is lost or stolen, notify the Social Security Administration. Follow through Once resolved, most instances of identity theft stay resolved. But stay alert: Monitor your credit reports regularly, check your monthly statements for any unauthorized activity, and be on the lookout for other signs (such as missing mail and debt collection activity) that someone is pretending to be you.
Organize your fight against crime • Be prepared with the information you’ll need to give • Keep a log of your conversations (dates, names of the people you speak with, and a summary of what’s discussed • Follow up in writing • Keep copies of your correspondence • Keep the originals of supporting documents; send copies • Keep old files even after the case is closed, just in case
Fraud alerts • An initial fraud alert entitles you to one free credit report from each credit bureau, and remains on your credit report for 90 days • An extended fraud alert entitles you to two free credit reports within 12 months from each credit bureau, and remains on your credit report for 7 years SL Ferguson Wealth Management Services Csenge Advisory Group Sherida Ferguson, CFP® FSC Securities Registered Representation 4755 East Bay Blvd. Clearwater, FL 33764 813-892-9782 888-500-2050 Sferguson@fscadvisor.com www.sheridaferguson.com
IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. does not provide investment, tax, or legal advice. The information presented here is not specific to any individual’s personal circumstances. To the extent that this material concerns tax matters, it is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. Each taxpayer should seek independent advice from a tax professional based on his or her individual circumstances. These materials are provided for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable—we cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.
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Top 6
Fall Reads of 2014
Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good Jan Karon $19.62
What I Know For Sure Oprah Winfrey $15.43
The Bone Clocks David Mitchell $18.36
Personal - Series #19 Jack Reacher $16.77
13 Hours: The Inside Account of What Really Happend In Benghazi Mitchell Zuckoff $16.77
The King’s Curse Philippa Gregory $20.71
September - November 2014
Florida Creative Living
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Adult Living | CROSSWORD & SUDOKU FUN
Across
Crossword Puzzle
1. Third degrees 5. Search party 10. On the Marmara 14. Vista 15. Composer Bruckner 16. Role for Hanks 17. On the mark 18. Battle souvenirs 19. Military post 20. Guesser’s oxymoron 23. Swabbie 24. Paris abductee 25. It’s all the craze 28. Hold court 30. Scoffed at 34. Planet inhabitants of film 36. Shoebox marking 38. “Cheers” character 39. Polltaker’s oxymoron 43. Type of common denominator 44. “Erie Canal” mule 45. Calendar abbr. 46. Ankle bones 49. Catch, to Hamlet 51. River of Scotland 52. Fire items? 54. ___-jongg 56. Undecided’s oxymoron 61. Autobahn auto, perhaps 62. Call forth 63. Invisible emanation 65. Pride of one in a pride 66. Find a new tenant for 67. Cereal for kids 68. Unlike Godiva 69. One-way transports 70. Actress Daly
Down
1. B. Bailey’s rank 2. Antonym of fire 3. Celine Dion album 4. Sign of hard work 5. Napoleon and Danish 6. Formerly 7. Squirrel away 8. Categorized 9. Store fodder 10. Some Kosovo residents 11. Word with love or bucket 12. Settle (into) 13. Lime drink
21. ___ in Charles 22. Left Bank thank you 25. Rock fracture 26. Sleep disorder 27. Exclude from practice 29. Giveaway shirt 31. Cut partner 32. Skip the ceremony 33. “The Divine Comedy” poet 35. Cowardly 37. Both Begleys 40. Video game system name 41. Boathouse item
42. Takes a dive 47. Solitary figures 48. Tearfully complain 50. Ewe said it 53. Broke a commandment 55. Hilton alternative 56. Twofold 57. Novelist Ferber 58. Just got by 59. Suppress, as emotions 60. Ireland, in verse 61. Gremlin’s creator 64. Hacker’s tool
View our next issue for the correct answers to this Crossword puzzle. 48
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Adult Living | CROSSWORD & SUDOKU FUN
Sudoku
A sudoku puzzle is a logic puzzle which is solved using logic and reasoning. Though the number of squares in the grid may vary, a standard Sudoku puzzle is a 9x9 grid divided into nine 3x3 blocks in which some of the numbers are given. The object of the puzzle is to fill in the rest of the grid using only the numbers 1 through 9 so that no number repeats in any block, row or column. The difficulty is determined by how many and which numbers are given and where they are placed in the grid and can range from very easy to extremely challenging. Though sudoku puzzles generally use numbers as symbols, no mathematical skills are required to solve the puzzle. View our next issue for the correct answers to this Sudoku puzzle.
Answer Guide June - Aug. Issue
Crossword Puzzle
Sudoku
September - November 2014
Florida Creative Living
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Adult Living | VA MEMOIRS
Angel
On My Shoulder By Chuck Johnson Retired Army MSG
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n combat situations when a person survives a near death experience many will say ‘I had an angel on my shoulder’ of course referring to the fact that the angel saved their life.
Many who have served present or past in military service I am sure can relate to that,however in this issue of Florida Creative Living we are interviewing Lisette Bonano a retired Lt. Colonel from the United States Army who gave up twenty eight years of her life to military service. As she mentioned that during her time in the military she was not only able to lead those under her command but also to assist many soldiers that encountered difficulties in their life while in the military. Today however she has a different mission in her life and that is helping anyone, especially a vet who is having difficulties in their life after separation from military service. In speaking with her we learned that LTC Bonano served in the Office of the Inspector General. Many of us recall the anxieties preparing for our yearly IG Inspections and the wrath that would follow should you not pass. However LTC Bonano was not satisfied with the status quo and later agreed for combat training to allow her to travel to Afghanistan, a location not normally where a female would be stationed, where she would train Afghan forces to investigate crimes against women. When they called and told me what the mission was I hesitated and asked, “You do know that you are speaking to a woman and asking me to train men who treat women in a manner we do not recognize? However I took on the challenge and soon was at a forward operating post in Afghanistan.” “When I started, it was like walking into the lions den”, she recalled. “The men I was training just sat and stared at me. Treating a woman well in that country was not the norm and it took some long term
September - November 2014
training to change their minds.” One of the methods she recalls using was the Buccaneers Football team which she is a big fan of. “Yes I admit it, I was a big Tampa Buccaneer fan and I did use that from time to time”, she recalls. “As a matter of fact I was attempting to teach them the game and rules of football and after awhile they became very excited about hearing when the Bucs would play here in Tampa and if they won or lost. So it was a good strategy to reach them and it worked. It was difficult at first as they deemed I was to ‘no nonsense’ however after a sort time we all became good friends, the respect they had for me was enhanced and I am hopeful my training made them aware of how to better treat women in their country.” LTC Bonano retired from active military service, however like many of us did not anticipate the impact of doing so much to doing so little. “It was like running off a cliff and I did not handle it well at all however in the end it all worked out. Now I have a chance to help others and that is what I do.” One mission she had was to assist her interpreter who assisted her greatly to return to the United States. She explained that if American support is withdrawn from Afghanistan many fear the country will fall back into the hands of the Taliban or ISIS which has caused so much terror and havoc in Iraq. While this has not been accomplished at this time she is hopeful it will occur in the near future. Some 3,000 visa’s have been approved for entry into the United States, many for those who served our armed forces,it may be 2015 until approval is granted. For the safety of the interpreter we have omitted his name at this time. However there is a bright side. LTC Bonano also has assisted others from Afghanistan. One was ‘Tawfiq’ a CONTINUE TO NEXT PAGE
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Adult Living | VA MEMOIRS young 21 year old interpreter who reached Tampa, Florida in 2011 with her assistance. When we spoke to him briefly he appeared quiet however his mastering of the english language was excellent. When asked what would have happened to him had he remained in Afghanistan he replied, “ Had they found me and learned I had assisted American forces they would have killed me. Working I wore one set of clothing but if I traveled within the country I had to dress different to avoid detection of who I worked for.” Bonano explained, “Once the word started getting around that I could assist them I somehow picked up the nickname ‘Angel’ and it stuck.” No doubt about it, Afghanistan was and continues to be a dangerous neighborhood to simply travel in. Shortly after the interview LTC Bonano brought me to a nearby apartment complex and introduced me to her most recent challenge which was assisting the family of Mohammad Rayan which consisted of his wife and four daughters. Mohammad was another interpreter who served as an interpreter for American forces and as he explained, “It is simply to dangerous now. Had I not left and they found me, myself and entire family could have been in trouble. The Taliban does not look favorably on those who helped American forces.” The apartment was clean and donations from the area are slowly making it home to this family who is clearly experiencing culture shock. With no beds and blankets they sleep on the floor and a donated television allows them to continue progress in their home country. However with the situations which many of us in America would deem a hardship, they are upbeat and anxious to start their new life in America. It is obvious that Mohammad did have an angel on his shoulder that allowed him to escape with his family and start a new life in a country. LTC Bonano explained that it is not just Afghanistan citizens that worked for the armed forces that need 52 For All Ages! | www.FloridaCreativeLiving.com
assistance but returning military personnel as well. “Before they return to the United States or are released back to civilian status each really needs to speak with them and make sure they are mentally ready.” “We have lost to many military personnel from post traumatic stress disorder(PTSD) and we do not need to lose anymore. Sometimes just a short interview can determine if a problem exists”. Therefore she reaches out whenever she hears of a prior military person having difficulties. “Stress comes in many different forms”, she explained. LTC Bonano comes from a long line of family military service. Her four brothers and one sister all have worn the uniform. Her father also is a twenty two veteran of the Vietnam war and she is quick to point out that serving is simply a matter of pride in her family. Why does she reach out with such compassion to those in need? She explained, “It’s simple. I think God sent me in this direction and I accept that.” LTC Lisette Bonano now retired however still that angel on someone’s shoulder trying to make life a little easier for someone, one day at a time.
From left to right: Interpretor Mohammad Rayan, LTC Lisette Bonano, and Interpretor Massouq
September - November 2014
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Adult Living | CHEF’S DELIGHT
5 Stars Simple Hamburger
Stroganoff
Ingredients
1 (16 ounce) package egg noodles 1 pound lean ground beef 1 (.75 ounce) packet dry brown gravy mix 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese 1 (6 ounce) can chopped mushrooms, with liquid 1/2 cup milk 1 (8 ounce) container sour cream 2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
Directions 1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add egg noodles and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain. 2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no pink shows, about 5 minutes; drain fat. 3. Mix brown gravy, cream cheese, and mushrooms with hamburger, stirring until cream cheese melts. Add milk, sour cream, and mushroom soup to cooked pasta. Blend hamburger mixture with pasta. 54
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PREP
20 mins COOK
10 mins READY IN
30 mins
Makes 6 servings
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September - November 2014
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& s d Ki s n e Te n o i t c e S
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For For AllAll Ages! Ages! For All Ages! || | www.FloridaCreativeLiving.com www.FloridaCreativeLiving.com
I n a C n Whe
” t u o o g “ with someone?
T
Kids & Teens |NEWS
Reviewed by: Mary L. Gavin, MD
he answer depends a lot on what you mean by “going out.” While crushes start as early as elementary school, in middle school kids start talking about “going out” or “going together.” Usually, what they mean is that two people let it be known that they like each other. They might write notes to each other or talk on the phone or text message each other. It’s possible this couple could see each other at an event, such as a dance, a party, or a basketball game. But most kids won’t “go out” on a date, just the two of them, and if they do it’s likely their parents will want to come along. The bottom line is most parents think kids should wait until they are older to start dating. If somebody asks you to “go out,” it might feel great that someone likes you, but also a little
strange. You might wonder what it will mean if you say yes. And what if you want to stop “going out” with this person? These couples usually don’t last long and that’s perfectly OK. The best advice is to go slowly because it’s easy for kids to get their feelings hurt. It’s a good idea to talk with your mom or dad, too. They might not want you to “go out” with anyone yet, even if you’re not really going out anywhere. Or, if they’re OK with it, they might have certain rules they want you to follow, like if you can have this person as a Facebook friend or get phone calls and texts from this person. Some kids make the mistake of texting the person they like a zillion times a day. Oh, no — don’t be an over-texter! ©1995-2014. The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth®. Reprinted with permission
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Kids & Teens |FEATURED ARTIST
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September - November 2014
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Kids & Teens |HEALTHY HABITS
What Kids Say About
Being Busy p U e ak
W
Eat
t
s a f k a Bre
ol o h c r S o f ady e R Get Study Music Lessons Sports Practice
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Almost all of them (90%) said they felt stressed because they were too busy. About half said they felt this way once in a while or some of the time. his is the age of being busy. Many of But 17% said they felt this way most of the time us live in busy places and have busy and 24% said they felt like this all the time! Oh lives. Even the roads are busy as we dear, that’s no fun. try to get from here to there. Adults are busy going to jobs and taking care Only 4% of kids said they wanted less free time and of their families. Kids are busy, too, 18% said they already had just the right amount. going to school and doing lots of stuff But, no big surprise, 61% of kids wish they had after school and on the weekends. a lot more free time. If they had more time, most would spend it hanging out or playing with friends. Busy isn’t bad, necessarily. If you’re not busy enough you might be bored. But if you’re too busy, So if a kid wants more free time, how can he or you might feel overwhelmed. For instance, if you she get it? Here are the steps to follow: have a soccer game that runs late on a school night and you haven’t eaten dinner or done your 1. Take a look at how you spend your time now. homework, that’s a not-so-fun kind of busy. We 2. Think of ways you could rearrange stuff or cut wanted to know what kids thought, so we did a out some things to have more time for others. KidsPoll about being busy with 882 girls and boys 3. Talk to your mom and dad about your free time ages 9 to 13. and your schedule, especially if you feel too busy.
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Look at Your Schedule
Start by writing down a little weekly schedule and note how many hours you spend doing this or that. For example:
Monday
Wake up, eat breakfast, get ready for school: 7-7:30 a.m. School: 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Homework: 4-5 p.m. Dinner: 5:30 p.m. Sports practice: 6-7:15 p.m. Shower: 7:45-8 p.m. TV: 8-9 p.m. Bedtime: 9:15 p.m. You also might take a look at a typical Saturday or Sunday, when most kids have more time to work with. Once you’ve mapped it out, you can see how you spend your days.
Time for a Change?
Step 2 is figuring out how you might rearrange or drop certain activities to have more time for other stuff. For instance, on the Monday schedule, you can’t cut out dinner, but maybe you’d like to play a game from 8 to 9 instead of watching TV before bed. You might say, “But I always watch TV before bedtime.” That’s OK if you do — and if you want to keep doing it — but you don’t have to do it that way.
Mom and Dad Can Help
In some cases, a kid can budget his or her own time. For instance, a lot of kids told us they spend more than 3 hours a day watching TV, playing video games, or using the computer for fun. That’s time that a kid could use for other things, like going outside, reading a book, drawing, or listening to music. But sometimes, a kid will need help from a parent. Almost 40% of kids said they participated in three or four activities. For some kids, that might be too many. Mom or dad can help a kid figure out if it’s time to cut out one of those activities or make some other change. Mom or dad also can help if you want to change the way you spend your free time. If you want to hang out with a friend more often, a parent might have to drive you somewhere or agree to host. Or, if you want to work on your arts and crafts or play whiffleball outside, mom or dad will need to get you the supplies you need. The best approach is to find a good time to talk and politely ask for the help you need. Here’s a request your mom or dad will like hearing — that you’d like to spend more of your free time with one or both of them. Tell your mom or dad, “Instead of you being busy and me being busy, let’s be busy together!”
Often, adults plan large parts of a kid’s day, especially during the school year. You can’t tell your parents you’ll be skipping school today to get more free time! But you can tell them that you’d like to play a game or read a book during your free time instead of watching TV. Sometimes, kids get to make the decisions. Just like you sometimes get to decide how to spend your money, you might decide how to spend your time. Did you ever get $20 for your birthday and you went to the mall or out to an amusement park, and before you know it, the money was gone? Maybe you bought something to eat, played a few games, and bought something small, like some jewelry or a toy. Where did your 20 bucks go? It got eaten up by little things and, maybe, if you had it to do over again, you would have made different decisions about what to buy and what not to buy. When you make careful choices about spending money, it’s called budgeting. Good news! You can budget your time, too.
©1995-2014. The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth®. Reprinted with permission
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Reviewed by: Steven Dowshen, MD
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Kids & Teens |STAYING SAFE nice and tell you how you sound really smart and cute.
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earn about llamas, read up on your favorite skateboard star, or study a stegosaurus. You can do all these things online and then email or text message your best friend about it. But when you’re moving through cyberspace, you need to stay safe.
It comes down to just a few simple guidelines: 1. Don’t communicate with strangers online and never agree to meet in person. 2. Tell a parent or another adult if a stranger contacts you in a chat room or through email or text messaging. 3. Don’t enter contests, join clubs, or share your personal information for any reason, unless your mom or dad says it’s OK. Personal information includes your name, address, age, phone number, birthday, email address, where you go to school, and other facts about you.
No Talking to Strangers
Since you were a little kid, your mom or dad has probably told you not to talk to strangers. The same goes for the online world. It’s easy to meet a stranger on the Internet. You might visit a chat room or get an email or text message from someone you don’t know. It can be fun to make new friends, but do not communicate with strangers you meet online. Don’t talk to them, agree to phone them, or email them photos of yourself. To a kid, this can seem kind of silly. Why not make a friend with someone who likes skateboarding just as much as you do? The writer might seem really
Unfortunately, kids have been tricked online by people who pretend to be something that they’re not. Someone might lie and say they’re in sixth grade, too, when they’re really all grown up and they don’t even know how to skateboard. Some kids have found themselves in a dangerous situation when they agreed to meet the mysterious online “friend” in person. Let your parents know if a stranger emails you, sends a text message, or starts a conversation with you in a chat room. The email could be from a person or a company trying to sell you something. A grown-up should decide what’s best to do, which may include changing your email address or telling the police.
Keep Your Privacy
Anybody who uses the Internet has been asked to sign in, log in, or create a personal profile. Kids need to check with a parent or grown-up before doing so. Why? This information could be used for reasons you wouldn’t like, like getting a lot of junk email. Another word about email: If you have your own account, let your mom or dad know before you reply to email that asks for your personal information. Some email looks official, as if it was sent by your Internet provider, but it’s actually a trick to get your personal info. Another way to keep your privacy is to choose a screen name or email account name that isn’t your real name. For instance, instead of “Jack_Smith,” why not choose “Sk8boardKing21”? Only your friends and family will know your code name!
September - November 2014
©1995-2014. The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth®. Reprinted with permission
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Kids & Teens | DOODLE CORNER
How would you like to win a $25 eGift Card from Toys “R� Us? Kids & Teens celebrate our 3rd year of our publication by coloring the scarecrow image to be in the running to win. All entries must submit image with their name and city by email to contest@floridacreativeliving.com by October 31, 2014. A random drawing will take place on November 1, 2014 and the winner will be notified by email on or around November 3, 2014. Any questions, please send them to contest@floridacreativeliving.com September - November 2014
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Creative Living Florida
Celebrates 3 years of Publishing in the Month of
September!
www.floridacreativeliving.com