Florida Women September 2023

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Gary S. Hatrick

Hilda Ann Helwig

Steve Papola

Nitish S. Rele

Tina M. Spinks, MPA

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Letter from the Publisher

Fall Is Coming!

Fall is coming!! Fall is coming!!! We wish. As I write this at the end of August, it is still pretty hot, and the forecast for the next couple of weeks seems to be the same. Although Fall is not here, it is coming! You can tell by the events that are gearing up for October, November and December. Not time yet for the sweaters, but there are quite a few events mentioned inside our pages.

We have a wonderful article about Highland Canine Connect about their work with therapy dogs. A much needed service transforming lives!

Have you heard of "paramedical tattooing"? If not, then pay attention to our story about Peter Bogdanov, owner of Legend Ink and how he has helped many women (and men) recover from the emotional effects of disfiguring scars using his talent.

Been to Georgia lately? Our travel writer Hilda Helwig has discovered a great place to visit: Alpine Helen, Georgia.

As usual, there is more to read inside our pages, from childhood obesity to helping with finances after the loss of a loved one, and more!

Thank you for reading us, and Happy "Fall to Come"! Publisher

In The Spirit

What It Means To Be A Christian

True Christianity is not a religion.

By Gary S. Hatrick

There are still a lot of people who will say that they are Christians when they have to check a box on a survey or if the talk turns generally to church.

Some however, will qualify their claim by saying something like, "but I'm not one of those born-again Christians" or "I'm not one of those evangelical Christians."

They say this for two reasons. One is that born-again and/or evangelical Christians do not have good reputations these days, admittedly, some for good reason. The Church established by Jesus Christ made of every believer in the world has done a better job of showing that they are still sinners than proclaiming and demonstrating that they have been made a new creation by the blood of the Christ. The world is not completely wrong about what it says about Christians. We as a church, have been silent and self-absorbed; but let me qualify those statements: even if we were to live as Christ lived, they would still hate us as they did Christ Himself.

The other reason people don't want to say that they are born again or evangelical Christians is that they are not a Christian at all.

You see, saying that you are a Christian, but not a born-again Christian is like saying I'm a human being, but I have never been born. I can say that because Jesus made that clear when he was talking with the Pharisee Nicodemus. He said directly, "Do not marvel that I said to you 'You must (emphasis mine) be born-again.'" (John 3:7) If one is not born-again, one is not a Christian at all.

Saying that you are a Christian and that you are not an evangelical Christian is like saying I'm a follower of Jesus Christ but I do not obey His commands. I can say that because to be evangelical means to adopt a lifestyle of evangelism which for the Christian is the goal of spreading the gospel to those who do not believe. Christians call that witnessing because Jesus

said just before He went back into Heaven, "you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you: and you shall be my witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the uttermost part of the earth." (Acts 1:8). If you are a Christian and you are not evangelical, that is, you do not tell others of Jesus Christ, you are not an obedient Christian. I am not saying you are not a Christian, but you do not appear to be heading for a "Well done My good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25)

Some do not pay attention to these two conditions at all. They just check the box or make the claim because that is what they have always been and what their family has always said. After all, they are not Jewish or Hindu, or Buddhist or Muslim or Baha'i, or Zoroastrian or Satanic.

These contend that since they were born in a "Christian" family in what they believe is a "Christian" nation, they are a Christian. That is tantamount to saying, as it has been said many times, that if a cat has kittens in the oven that makes them biscuits. I've already quoted Jesus stating that being a Christian is something you are born again into, not born into.

True Christianity is not a religion. It is a relationship with the only true God through the death, shed blood and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life, No ones comes to the Father but by Me." (John 14:6)

When the time of our bodily death comes, there won't be an application in Heaven for you to check a box before you enter God's Kingdom. If there is any question at all asking why you should be given entrance, it may be something like "Why should I let you in?"

What would you say? If it is anything but "Jesus died for me," you are lost. If your answer is: "I went to church every Sunday," "I gave my offerings faithfully," "I cared for people," "I helped the poor," "I always tried to do good," or even all of these and more works of kindness besides. You are lost.

If you don't understand why this is true. Find someone who does understand and find out why. If you can't find anyone else, get in touch with me. Your eternal destiny hinges on your relationship with Jesus Christ.

Don't let the behavior of people who say they are Christians keep you from finding out, and don't put it off. With Paul the apostle, I beg of you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. (II Cor. 5:20)

A word for those who are Christians. You know many lost people. What are you doing about it?

Imagine if, at the coming of the the judgement seat of Christ, (and it is coming), that one of those people who are declared lost and cast into outer darkness, looked at you and said, "You knew! I thought you were my friend! Why didn't you tell me?"

If anything like that happens, (and I believe we all are going to face seeing people we knew who are lost, knowing that we were silent and self-absorbed when it came to them) we will know that we bear guilt concerning that soul.

Maybe that's why tears in Heaven will have to be wiped away. (Rev 21:1-4)

(Your questions and comments are welcome. Send them to highroadzhills@aol.com, or private message them to me on the Facebook page under my name.] If you want to know more about Jesus - please, please contact me. Your eternity is in the balance.)

Local Authors - Local Stories

Featured Book of the Month

CIGAR CITY MAFIA

A COMPLETE HISTORY OF THE TAMPA UNDERWORLD

by Scott M. Deitche

Bootleggers, gambling, ringleaders, arsonist, narcotics dealers and gang murders - a variety of characters flourished in the era known as Prohibition, and Tampa, Florida was where they battled for supremacy of criminal underworld.

About the Author: Scott M. Deitche was born and raised in central New Jersey. He is an author specializing in organized crime and the Mafia. Mr. Deitche has written numerous books and over 50 articles on organized crime for local and national magazines and newspapers. He has been featured on the History Channel, Fox-TV, A&E, Discovery Channel, AHC, C-Span, and Oxygen Network. In addition, he has also appeared on dozens of local and national news shows, as well as over 40 radio programs. He is a member of the Mob Museum’s advisory council and he resides in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Transforming Lives — Both Human & Canine

Nancy Horbert says she loves to see the joy her dogs bring to the faces of folks of all ages and backgrounds and the way they connect man and man’s best friend in meaningful relationships.

Since founding a Highland Canine Connect (HCC) chapter in Wesley Chapel, Nancy has seen the benefits it brings between dogs and those in need of the special attention canines can provide.

Based in Harmony, North Carolina, HCC was started in 2019 as a non-profit organization that works with communities “to create fulfilling and engaging connections between dogs and people in need,” according to the website. The Wesley Chapel HCC is the only other chapter established besides the home facility North Carolina.

Nancy, HCC Wesley Chapel program manager, runs the organization with the help of her daughter, Brittany Mojica, a dog trainer with Highland Canine Training, Tampa. Brittany went to Highland Canine Training School

“When I retired, that’s what I really wanted to do and since my daughter had trained for a long time for Highland Canine Training and 4 years ago they started a nonprofit, I went up and asked how they would feel about me starting a branch here and they loved the idea,” says Horbert, who lives in Wesley Chapel with her husband, Everett and three HCC-trained dogs -- parti poodle Uggy, 7, Remmie, a 7-year-old labradoodle and Dixie, 7, a Labrador retriever.

Together, the mother and daughter HCC Wesley Chapel team, coordinates the visits and outings of 15 therapy dog teams, owners and dogs who have gone through the American Kennel Club training. Horbert, who volunteers her time wit HCC, says she attracts volunteers mostly via word-of-mouth and for about six years prior to starting the chapter, was already taking therapy dogs to meet students at Pepin Academy New Port Richey and to Sunrise of Pasco County domestic and sexual violence center.

The end of the 2021-22 school year, Horbert, Mojica and team members have been taking their dogs throughout March, April and May to meet students during lunchtime at Tampa Preparatory School and recently began visiting the Wesley Chapel New River Library. There, children can take part in a program where they can read to the HCC dogs.

“Transforming lives through the power of canine connections. We conduct innovative research, provide essential education and create partnerships to serve both the canine community and people.”

Therapy Dog Cannoli and owner Chuck.

Therapy Dog Tony Owner Adrian (not pictured).

“The kids can come over and pet the dogs and just help them kind of relax, decompress,” she says. “We talk to them about the differences between service dogs and therapy dogs and the kids can spend time with them and pet them.”

As some examples of the HCC dogs’ impacts, Horbert cites Focus Academy, Tampa, where a young girl spoke to Uggy. The school’s speech therapist said the girl usually spoke with a stutter but while talking to the dog, she spoke clearly.

Horbert cites one of the main examples of the benefits of HCC and why she decided to get involved once she retired was due to an impactful personal experience. Prior to forming HCC, while she worked at Tampa Prep, she and Tampa Prep Business Manager Steve Garrett started taking their dogs Sundays as therapy to St. Joseph’s Hospital, Tampa. During a visit in 2014, a nurse asked them to go to a room where a lady in her 30s lay unresponsive with feeding tube who was going to be transferred to a facility. The dogs were brought in and as they walked around the woman’s bed, she turned her head to look at the dogs.

“The nurse was almost in tears, she said she hadn’t responded to anything,” she says.

The dogs were placed on the bed for the patient to see them and Horbert says, “She stared at them, and the nurse said is there any way you can come during the week and my boss said, ‘Sure, we’re going to take the dogs with us to school on Wednesdays and we’ll come during lunch on Wednesdays’.”

That continued for six weeks, and the woman started calling the dogs “babies.” By that Christmas, the woman’s feeding tube was being taken out and Horbert says she walked out of the hospital a week later. “

“Had that nurse not asked us to come in that day, who knows what would’ve happened, for some reason, the dogs got her attention,” says Horbert. “I knew from that experience, how much a dog could change somebody’s life and that’s what made me want to work with the therapy dogs once I retired.”

In her work with HCC Wesley Chapel, Horbert receives requests for visits by dogs and their owners-handlers from libraries, schools, daycares --- and other educational and social services facilities, such as Joshua House, Lutz. As long as HCC Wesley Chapel dogs and volunteers are invited, they go.

“When we go to these places, it’s really meant to help people decompress, to de-stress. It’s amazing… how comforting it all is,” says Horbert, a native of Kingston, New York who lived in various countries as the daughter of a U.S. Army officer. “Giving back to the community is something my daughter and I think is very important.”

Mojica, who lives in Wesley Chapel with her husband and daughter, has had about 14 years working among those in the autism community. She trained an autism-assistance service dog about four years ago and donated it to the Sean Bartell Foundation -- a Wesley Chapel-based cause established to help students and teachers excel in the classroom -- which allowed parents with autistic children the chance via a raffle to win an $18,000 service dog. The proceeds went to the foundation.

“It’s important we’re able to give back to the community and we love helping families in need and being able to give back to the community that has given so much us over the years,” she says. “It’s good for the dogs, their owners and everyone involved.”

Overall, Horbert says she hopes having a Wesley Chapel branch of Highland Canine Connect will help raise more money to provide more facility dogs in the Tampa area. She says in the future, she’d like to increase the number of therapy dogs, depending on how much is received in donations.

“It’s an amazing experience and watching the smiles on people’s faces, especially the children when they interact with the dogs – it’s priceless,” she says.

For information, 813-810-9271; www.highlandcanineconnect.org

Left, Therapy Dog Uggy and owner Nancy. Center, Therapy Dog Koda and owner Mark. Top, right, Therapy Dog Thor and Esmeralda. Center, right, Therapy Dog Gunner and owner Yvonne. Bottom, right, Therapy Dog Stormy and (not pictured) owner Karley.

A German Bavarian Village

Helen, Georgia is an alpine village set against a background of mountains, forests, river banks, waterfalls and colorful shops, which include amazing bakeries with supurb German treats.

By Hilda Ann Helwig / Angelhil001@live.com, Traveling Reporter for Florida Women Magazine

Up in the northeast Georgia Mountains, along the Chattahoochee River, some 544 miles (7.5 hrs) from Tampa, Florida is a beautiful German Bavarian Village called HELEN, GEORGIA. Come visit to unplug, unwind and find the adventure you have been searching for not far from home. Helen, Georgia is an alpine village set against a background of mountains, forests, river banks, waterfalls and colorful shops, which include amazing bakeries with supurb german treats.

Well known for its tubing on the Chattahoochee River in the summertime, you will have an array of other adventures to choose from. There is horseback riding, gem mining, take a visit to a castle, go ziplining, travel on a mountain coaster, go four wheeling and if you can brave the rapids go river rafting! The relaxing side of Helen is golfing, sitting by the fire pit at

your own cabin or just laying in your hotel room watching TV. Do not forget to sit by the side of the river and just enjoy life.

Strolling thru town is so magical. All the stores, hotels and restuarants are set up to look like you are in a Bavarian German village. As you walk along the cobblestone walkways you can can smell the aroma of German food filling the air.

German food, German beer, German music and dancing are abound in this beautiful town during OCTOBERFEST that runs from September 7th thru October 29th. In September, Octoberfest runs Thursday thru Sunday, then every day and night in October all taking place at the Helen Festhall. This is a must see for a fun time.

As if that was not enough, Christmas in Helen is a twinkling wonderland of Christmas lights, bundling up for the cold weather, shopping the Christmas market, snow tubing, and snuggling in a horse drawn carriage, all of it will make you feel the Christmas Spirit. You may even see snow!

KOMMEN FEIERN !!!

For a great, memorable getaway come to ALPINE HELEN, GEORGIA. You will be glad you came.

Pain Drawing Out By Drawing On Flesh

By Gary S. Hatrick

In these modern days, it is very possible that we all know a woman who has breast cancer and the only way to combat the scourge is to remove one or both of her breasts. We are sad, but we often feel that it is better than losing or friend or loved one. The cancer victim, however, often bears more than just physical scars. The emotional scars often run deeper and take longer to heal.

In such cases people will call on psychiatrists and psychologists and preachers and plastic surgeons and prosthetics manufacturers and all kinds of things that start with the letter P and maybe even other letters, but in Saint Petersburg, Florida there is another to call who is able to do things none of the others can - Peter Bogdanov, owner of Legend Ink, and a tattoo artist.

Peter is not the kind of tattoo artist that often comes to mind: the guy in a seedy storefront waiting for the drunks to wander in and have their girlfriends name or their mother's heart permanently inked on their arm. He is also not just the higher class tattoo artist who produces colorful works of art on people’s arms and legs and backs and any -

"I do paramedical tattooing,” Peter said. "I'm a tattooist, but in general I consider myself an artist above all else." Not only does he consider himself an artist, but a practitioner of a kind of healing art.

"I do a lot of work with women in general,” Peter explained. "From people who have had mastectomies or double mastectomies either through cancer or some other reason."

When women have their breast removed, their breast is often reconstructed by a plastic surgeon, it doesn’t always go well, sometimes the plastic surgeon will botch the nipple reconstruction. That is where Peter can help.

"My job, as the tattoo artist, is to come in and do what is called 3D nipples," Peter said. "Basically I do a photo-realistic matching set of nipples."

Sometimes the problem is not a botched job, it's just the nature of the beast. As in the case of a woman who has had a double mastectomy and has large scars across her breasts.

"Our job then is to go in and minimize those scars as well as put the nipple back because they usually take the nipple off, that’s how they get to the cancer cells," Peter explained. "They basically cut the entire nipple off and then go into the breast to remove the cancer. After they put the breast implant in and sew it back up, you have the breast shape again but you have no nipple. In that case, our job is to go in and tattoo a nipple using a photo-realistic tattoo technique to make hyper-realistic nipples and give the woman back her womanhood if you will."

Peter doesn't only deal with breast cancer as a paramedical tattoo artist. He also deals with scars from accidents, disease, burns or purposeful "tummy-tucks." Sometimes the solution is to place a picture tattoo in the area that needs tending. Other times he fills in light and

Peter Bogdanov

and makes scars disappear. This is also what we do with stretch marks. Stretch marks are usually lighter than the skin next to it."

It is not as simple as it may sound. Color may change not only by race but by nationality.

"We have to understand how to mix and match color," Peter continued. "You can't just use any color, it has to be a pretty exacting match. Indians from India for example have a bluish dark tone to their skin while a person of color from Africa has a reddish tone to their skin a lot of time. Spanish people have a little olive green in their skin tone. You have to know how to mix the flesh tones. It's important to understand."

Peter suggests that anyone looking to have such work done, to be sure they know the tattooist is able to do the work. Many may claim they can, but not everyone is skilled enough to do it.

"I have a plethora of experience in my 30 years of owning my own business," Peter said "In college I studied medical anatomy. I was going to be a medical illustrator back in the 90s. I studied medical illustration and particularly the muscle structure underneath the skin. I didn't know I was go to be a tattoo artist at the time. I personally have made sure I have a significant amount of training."

Peter has many stories he can tell about the impact his work has had on the lives of people who have come to him for his artistry. He wishes it were covered by insurance because it is an expensive prospect as a result of the time it takes to get it right. He also wishes it could be covered because his tattoos often bring healing where the medical arts cannot.

He tells a story of a woman who was burned from head to toe in a fire with fourth degrees burns all over her body. She had lost some of her hair and had visible melted skin on her face and suffered the loss of a hand. She had been turned down by other tattoo artists. But Peter tattooed a couple of lizards on her because she raised bearded dragon lizards. He saw she was happy with the tattooing.

“After we were done tattooing the next day she came back and she was crying," Peter went on. "I asked, 'Why are you crying?' She explained to me that she went to the shopping mall and normally little girls and kids would change aisles and move to the other side of the way to avoid her because of her looks. This particular day she had kids running up to her and asking to see her tattoo. For the first time in 10 years, she said she didn't feel like a monster, she said 'I felt like a piece of art."

"I think that explains the emotional and psychological correction this is able to offer people," Peter said. "It's so immense. It is a very emotional recovery. We're able to cure people psychologically in a way that a burn triage unit can't. That's no offense to burn medicine and skin grafts. They do some awesome and wonderful things, but they can only go so far."

If you go to visit Peter expect a design consultation before any work is done, He needs to determine what can be done, whether you have healed enough, if the scarring is recent and if you are going to have a tattoo, he needs you to decide what you want. It is after all a design consultation. The nature of the work often requires more than one visit to complete depending on the severity of the need.

LEGEND INK is located at 140 1st Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. You can learn about his studio and see his work at www.legendink.com. Regular tattoos and permanent make-up may be obtained there as well. Peter can be reached at (727) 317-7989 or info@bogdanov.com.

Peter Bogdanov's Burn Patient Project, top, left and right page, 3D Nipple Project, bottom right, and the Tummy Tuck Project, center right, has brought emotional and psychological recovery to the lives of many people. Color Tattooing, bottom, left page.

The Horror Book of Bad Poetry

“I was searching for the proverbial “meaning of life.” So, what is the meaning of life? I don’t have all the answers, but I did find enough to satisfy my own needs.” — Rocky Boyett

Some people's dreams take a little longer than others. Rocky Boyett, 77, began writing poetry in his early 30s. He said poetry calms him and helps him to get his thoughts out on paper.

“I was searching for the proverbial “meaning of life.” So, what is the meaning of life? I don’t have all the answers, but I did find enough to satisfy my own needs.”

Rocky is a USMC veteran of the Vietnam Conflict, where he served as an anti-tank assault gunner from 1964 to 1967. After returning from his tour of duty, he worked in construction carpentry. He has two biological children and four adopted children from former marriages. He currently lives in Zephyrhills, Florida.

lifestyles

5 Fun Facts about the Month oF septeMber

September marks a return to the norm for millions of households. School is back in session, summer vacation season has ended and fall begins. Routines take shape and life once again becomes more structured in September. As that transition takes place, individuals can consider these fun facts about the month of September.

1. Though Latin is no longer widely spoken or taught, plenty of words, including September, trace their origins to the language of ancient Rome and its empire. "Septem" is the Latin word for "seven," and September was originally the seventh month of the Roman calendar.

2. Though the autumnal equinox, which marks the official beginning of fall, does not occur until later in the month, the unofficial end to summer occurs in the first weekend of September. Americans celebrate Labor Day and Canadians celebrate Labour Day on the first Monday in September, and millions of people in both countries consider that weekend the last hurrah for summer relaxation and revelry.

3. Labor Day is not the only holiday to be celebrated in September. In fact, Rosh Hashanah, a Jewish holiday that is often referred to as the "Jewish New Year," also is celebrated in September in many years (the holiday occurs 163 days after the first day of Passover, so in certain years it is celebrated in early October).The Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur also can be celebrated in September or October, and Constitution Day, which commemorates the adoption of the United States constitution in 1787, is celebrated on September 17. Patriot Day also occurs annually on September 11 and is a day to remember the people killed in the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001.

4. Though its name might suggest otherwise, Oktoberfest actually begins in late September. Modern Oktoberfest celebrations, particularly those outside the Bavaria region of Germany, may have little to do with a marriage, but the festival traces its origins to the marriage of Kronprinz Ludwig to Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen on October 12, 1810. Citizens of Munich were invited to attend the festivities, and more than two centuries later that jovial atmosphere

On the 22nd anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks on America, we pause to remember the tragic events of that day, honor the memories of those who perished and recognize the first responders who risked their own lives to save others.

dominates the city, and countless others across the globe, during Oktoberfest.

5. Football fans circle the month of September on their calendars, as the month marks the return of the National Football League regular season. The reigning champion Kansas City Chiefs will host the Detroit Lions in the NFL Kickoff Game on September 7, and the rest of the league will take to the gridiron on September 10 and 11. That's a big deal for millions of fans across the country, as the NFL remains wildly popular. In fact, an analysis by the Sports Business Journal found that per-game attendance averaged 69,442 fans in 2022, which marked the second-largest figure in 19 years.

Nearly 3,000 people were killed on September 11, 2001. It was the single largest loss of life resulting from a foreign attack on American soil.

Source: 9/11 Museum & Memorial

9/11 Day was created in 2002 as a nonprofit organization with the support of the 9/11 community and a mission to “rekindle the extraordinary spirit of togetherness and compassion that arose in the immediate aftermath of the 9/11 tragedy, and to inspire Americans and others to do good deeds that help to create a better and more peaceful world.”

On the 22nd anniversary of the September 11th attacks, the organization hopes to inspire people in the U.S. and around the world to perform 100 million good deeds “in remembrance and tribute.” To learn more or join the effort, visit 911day.org.

OCTOBER 7TH

lifestyles

8 Facts For National Hispanic Heritage Month

Fall provides plenty of opportunities to celebrate. For people of Hispanic and Latino descent, the weeks between mid-September to mid-October can be exciting and proud times to commemorate their unique heritage. That's because National Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) occurs from September 15 to October 15 each year.

Here are eight facts that offer insight into the Hispanic population across the country.

1. HHM started out as a week-long recognition.

In 1968, the country originally observed the event as "Hispanic Heritage Week." It was later extended to a month-long commemoration in 1988.

2. HHM celebrates independence.

HHM is celebrated between mid-September and mid-October because those weeks coordinate with the independence day celebrations of several countries with large Hispanic populations. Such nations include Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on September 15; Mexico on September 16; and Chile on September 18.

3. HHM recognizes special Hispanic contributions as well.

HHM also honors contributions such as Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day that is celebrated in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

4. The 2023 theme is: "Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America."

Hispanics have made significant contributions to the economic, social and political growth of the U.S. This theme focuses on these contributions and the representation of Hispanics in these key areas.

5. Millions of people comprise the demographic.

The U.S. Census Bureau says that more than 60 million people identified as Hispanic or Latino in 2020. That figure represents a 25 percent increase since 2010. Hispanics and Latinos now comprise about 18 percent of the U.S. population.

6. There are many different celebrations.

HHM is celebrated nationwide through festivals, art shows, conferences, community gatherings, and many other unique and festive events.

7. Mexicans are the largest Hispanic group in the U.S.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health notes that, among the 62 million Hispanics and Latinos living in the U.S., those who trace their heritage to Mexico ranked as the largest demographic at 61.6 percent, followed by those of Puerto Rican descent (9.6 percent as of 2020).

8. More and more companies are celebrating HHM.

In 2022, many different companies of varying sizes and in an assortment of industries celebrated HHM. These included Vanguard, T. Rowe Price, Samsara, Nestlé, Google, United Health Group, and many more.

National Hispanic Heritage Month remains a popular time to spotlight Hispanic and Latino contributions to the country and the heritage of this influential demographic.

DID YOU KNOW?

More than 62 million people in the United States identify as Hispanic or Latino, according to U.S. Census Bureau data from 2020. The states with the largest Hispanic populations are California, Texas and Florida. Forty percent of California residents, 40 percent of Texas residents and 30 percent of Florida residents identify as Hispanic/Latino. That means that more than half of the entire Hispanic population resides in these three states, and numbers are growing every year.

Here are eight facts that offer insight into the Hispanic population across the country.

What Seniors Can Do To Safeguard Their Mental Health

No one is immune to issues that can adversely affect their mental health, including men and women nearing retirement age and those who are already retired. Though the term "golden years" suggests life in retirement is one sunny day after another, many individuals 60 and older are dealing with mental health issues.

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 15 percent of the world's adults aged 60 and over suffer from a mental disorder. What makes that statistic even more troubling is that the WHO acknowledges it likely doesn't paint the most accurate picture of seniors and mental health, as depression is often undiagnosed among older men and women and untreated because it co-occurs with other issues affecting seniors.

In the past, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has acknowledged that late-life anxiety was not readily understood. However, much progress has been made in recent years thanks to a heightened awareness of the problem of seniors and mental health. That means seniors now have ample resources they can look to as they seek to learn what they can do to safeguard their mental health.

RECOGNIZING WARNING SIGNS

The National Institute of Mental Health notes that recognizing the signs of mental health issues is the first step to getting treatment. Mental health issues vary, and individuals with anxiety will likely experience different symptoms than those with depression. But the NIMH notes that the following are some of the warning signs of mental health issues.

• Noticeable changes in mood, energy level, or appetite

• Feeling flat or having trouble feeling positive emotions

• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much

• Difficulty concentrating, feeling restless, or on edge

• Increased worry or feeling stressed

• Anger, irritability, or aggressiveness

• Ongoing headaches, digestive issues, or pain

• Misuse of alcohol or drugs

• Sadness or hopelessness

• Suicidal thoughts

• Engaging in high-risk activities

• Obsessive thinking or compulsive behavior

• Thoughts or behaviors that interfere with work, family, or social life

• Engaging in thinking or behavior that is concerning to others

• Seeing, hearing, and feeling things that other people do not see, hear, or feel

SEEKING HELP

As noted, a growing awareness of mental health issues and how they affect seniors has translated to more available resources for aging men

and women who need help. Within the United States, seniors can visit the NIMH Help for Mental Illnesses webpage (https://www.nimh.nih.gov/ health/find-help) to access contact information for various groups that help people in times of mental health crises. In Canada, individuals can visit the Canadian Mental Health Association at https://cmha.ca/findhelp/find-cmha-in-your-area/ for contact information for various groups across the country.

BEHAVIORS THAT CAN BE BENEFICIAL

The National Institute on Aging notes that most cases of depression cannot be prevented. However, the NIA also notes that healthy lifestyle changes can have long-term benefits of seniors' mental health. Such changes include:

• Being physically active

• Eating a healthy diet that can reduce risk for diseases that can bring on disability and depression

• Getting adequate sleep, which for seniors is between seven to nine hours per night

• Remaining socially active, including regular contact with friends and family

• Participating in activities you enjoy

• Sharing mental issues or concerns with friends, family members and your physician Research indicates that seniors are vulnerable to mental health issues. More information about how to combat and overcome such issues is available at nimh.nih.gov.

Young Adult Health

Transitions in life are never easy. Take, for example, the newfound responsibilities that come with entering young adulthood. Often this means for the first time in life, you, as a young person are on your own, navigating new territory — learning to manage how to take care of yourself. This transformation often occurs in the late teens and early 20s and can be an eye-opening experience, especially when it concerns health.

The National Institutes of Health says young adulthood is the ideal time to learn and practice preventive health. While it’s perceived that young people enjoy good health, this is a time in your life when serious long-term illnesses or disorders can be averted through knowledge and wellness practices. Many chronic issues, such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain types of cancer, have their roots in early adulthood. It's during this time that you can establish routines and behaviors related to physical activity, nutrition, sleep, stress management, and preventive care. Prioritizing health now, sets the foundation for a healthier future.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SCREENINGS

As a young person, you are still undergoing physical development and growth, making it crucial to support your bodies' needs. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep contribute to healthy growth, muscle development, bone density, and hormonal balance. This stage of life lays the groundwork for optimal physical health and reduces the risk of chronic diseases later in life.

Any Lab Test Now® is your partner in health throughout all seasons. We understand that for you to be engaged in wellness practices providing optimal health, now and long term, means getting routine screenings to maximize health, provide baselines, and detect early signs of untreated illness. Plus, at this age, risk-taking is common, which is behavior that impacts lifelong health.

OVERALL LOOK AT YOUR HEALTH

Helping to serve these needs, our lab testing centers offer the ANNUAL CHECK-UP PANEL, which is a routine but effective lab test that monitors health, establishes a baseline, and provides knowledge of your wellness. This panel consists of five tests that provide a snapshot of information about your blood counts, kidney function, liver function, electrolytes, cholesterol, triglycerides, hemoglobin A1c, and thyroid function.

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE CHOICES

Young adulthood is a period of significant lifestyle changes, such as entering the workforce, pursuing higher education, or starting independent living. Prioritizing mental health is essential during this time, as you face various stressors and challenges. In a recent Kaiser Family Foundation/CNN survey, 34% of American adults under age 30 rate their mental health as fair or poor, with many saying it prohibits their ability to enjoy a quality of life. That’s why this is an ideal time in your life to be cognizant of good health practices both physically and mentally. Regular exercise and a balanced diet play a role in promoting mental well-being, reducing stress, and enhancing resilience to cope with life's demands. Good nutritional health supports a strong immune system, which is crucial for young adults.

Our BASIC NUTRITIONAL PANEL includes a variety of tests that can help you determine if you are getting enough nutrition. This panel can also help rule out adrenal gland disorders and malnutrition. It can also reveal anemia, signs of infection, or other factors that may cause fatigue; a CMP, which analyzes electrolytes, sugar, proteins, and enzymes, including sodium, potassium, calcium, glucose, and liver/kidney function tests; and an iron and total iron-binding capacity test (TIBC) — which measures the amount of iron in your blood.

PROVIDING ANSWERS WHEN YOU NEED THEM

We also understand that this may be the first time you’re on your own, making choices that can affect your health. Behaviors like smoking, illicit drug use, excessive alcohol consumption, and sexual activity can have a substantial impact on current and long-term health outcomes. Problems associated with disease transmission through sexual contact has reached epidemic proportion in the United States, according to the CDC. Cases of the sexually transmitted infections (STDs) chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis all increased between 2020 and 2021 — reaching a total of more than 2.5 million reported cases throughout the U.S.

Any Lab Test Now® is a judgment-free zone. We are here to provide answers when you need them. Our STD PANEL, COMPREHENSIVE, tests for infections that can be spread from one person to another through sexual contact. It is possible to have an STD and not realize it. Symptoms of STDs can vary — some people might experience significant symptoms, and others may have none. Even if people do not feel any symptoms, they can still spread STDs. This is why STD testing is so important. Early detection can lead to proper treatments.

HEALTHCARE COSTS

You may be leaving the nest and are budgeting for the first time, or perhaps it’s the debut of your own healthcare plan. For insurance with a high deductible, we are the solution to help save you money. Costs associated with lab testing are one of the medical expenses you can pay for with a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Partner in Health

It's important for you to understand the value of your health and make informed choices that support your well-being. By taking proactive steps to maintain your health during this pivotal stage of life, you can lay the groundwork for a healthier future and maximize your potential in all aspects of life. We are here as a resource to obtain answers with tangible results. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.

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Childhood Obesity Risk Factors

THE LINK BETWEEN SCREEN TIME & CHILDHOOD OBESITY

A 2021 study published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders found that, for each additional hour children spend on social media, they have a 62 percent greater risk of developing a binge-eating disorder one year later. The study echoes earlier efforts from researchers to determine the potential link between screen time and childhood obesity, the rate of which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports has more than tripled in the United States since the 1970s. One group of researchers at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland analyzed more than 3,700 children who were not overweight or obese at the start of the study. Despite that, the researchers found that, for every extra hour of screen viewing children engaged in, kids were 16 percent more likely to become overweight or obese. The researchers behind that study urged parents to prevent excessive screen time and ensure children get sufficient sleep, a lack of which was linked to a 23 percent higher risk of becoming overweight or obese.

including fruit juices, which studies have increasingly indicated may be linked to obesity in some people.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Parents want their children to be as healthy as possible, but many youngsters are at serious risk for poor health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 13.7 million children and adolescents in the United States are obese, which poses a considerable threat to their long-term health.

Childhood obesity may be seen as something children will grow out of as they age and lose their baby fat. However, the CDC warns that children who are obese are more likely to develop a host of serious issues, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, asthma, sleep apnea, and fatty liver disease. In addition, studies have shown that childhood obesity also has been linked to low self-esteem and psychological problems such as anxiety and depression.

Thankfully, childhood obesity is preventable, especially when parents learn to recognize its risk factors.

DIET

Poor diet is perhaps the most notable contributor to childhood obesity. High-calorie foods can cause children to gain weight, and the CDC notes that fast food and baked goods tend to be high in calories.

In addition, the CDC advises against giving children sugary drinks,

A lack of physical activity is a significant risk factor for childhood obesity. Children who do not exercise are at risk of weight gain because they do not burn as many calories as children who exercise. Parents should encourage their children to exercise each day and discourage their children from engaging in sedentary activities, like watching television or playing video games, for too long.

FAMILY

The CDC notes that children who come from families of overweight people may be more likely to gain weight. That's especially true in households where high-calorie foods are always available and physical activity is not prioritized.

PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS

Children who must confront personal, parental and family stress may be at an elevated risk of obesity than children who are shielded from such stress. That s because some children cope with stress by overeating. Parents also should avoid coping in that way, as such tendencies may be passed on to their children.

Childhood obesity poses a significant threat to youngsters. That threat can be overcome when parents recognize the risk factors for childhood obesity and encourage their children to eat right and exercise every day.

Childhood obesity is preventable, especially when parents learn to recognize its risk factors.

foryourhealth

Great Deals For An Even Greater Cause Gulfside Hospice Thrift Shoppes Launches A New On-Line Shoppe

The Gulfside Hospice Thrift Shoppes are thrilled to announce the grand opening of its innovative Online Thrift Shoppe to complement its fleet of in-person stores throughout Pasco County.

Since 1992, the Gulfside Hospice Thrift Shoppes have provided affordable clothing, furniture, and household items for Pasco County residents to purchase while supporting hospice care. Now the stores are offering a virtual shopping experience while staying committed to their loyal customers and mission of supporting hospice care in the community.

Shoppers can visit the Online Shoppe at www.ShopGulfsideThrift.org to browse through the online collection of items from the comfort of home. All proceeds from the virtual store will benefit patient care and bereavement programs at Gulfside Hospice, same as the brick-and-mortar locations.

The Online Shoppe features a large variety of items from each of the four locations, allowing shoppers to essentially shop all stores at once. Currently, each online purchase requires the buyer to pick up the items at their convenience from the designated store.

The Gulfside Hospice Online Thrift Shoppe boasts a user-friendly digital platform that ensures a seamless shopping experience for customers

across the county. Browsing through the thoughtfully categorized collections and placing orders can be done with just a few clicks, all from the comfort of home. Each purchase not only brings joy to the shopper but also enables Gulfside Hospice to continue providing compassionate care, counseling, and end-of-life support to patients and their families.

The Gulfside Hospice Online Thrift Shoppe can be found by visiting www.ShopGulfsideThrift.org and more information is available by calling 800-561-4883. The proceeds of all the Gulfside Hospice Thrift Shoppes benefit hospice patients and families in Pasco County.

About Gulfside Healthcare Services:

Gulfside Healthcare Services is a non-profit organization serving the community for more than 30 years. Its three lines of business include Gulfside Hospice, offering care for patients at end of life, Gulfside Palliative Care, providing treatment options for those with chronic illness, and Gulfside Home Health, helping patients stay independent through skilled nursing and rehab at home. For more information about Gulfside Healthcare Services, visit www.Gulfside. org or call 800-561-4883.

•

Insurance Protection For Emergency Situations

From the Desk of Steven Papola, Centurion Insurance and Financial Services

Emergencies, especially storms, can be unpredictable and cause personal injury and costly damage to homes. The right insurance is essential to help mitigate damage from storms and soften the financial blow that such destruction can cause. Not all insurance is the same, and additional policies and riders may help reduce the impact of emergencies.

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE

Standard homeowners insurance policies will cover a wide range of issues. American Family Insurance says damage from wildfires, wind storms, tornadoes, ice storms, lightning strikes, hail, power surges, and fallen trees is included. But additional coverage may be needed to cover excessive damage.

MATCHING SIDING COVERAGE

Some homeowners may want to replace all of the siding on their homes if parts are damaged and color or siding materials cannot be matched exactly by patching up damaged areas.

ROOF REPLACEMENT INSURANCE

This insurance will be used to pay for the full replacement of a roof, minus the deductible, which may differ from what's covered through standard homeowners policies.

SUMP PUMP OVERFLOW INSURANCE

Sump pumps are designed to engage and pump water out of basements and crawl spaces, helping to avoid flooding in the home. If the power goes out and the sump pump cannot work, or if the sump pump fails, homeowners typically are not covered for any ensuing damage. Sump pump overflow insurance provides additional peace of mind and protection.

FLOOD INSURANCE

Homeowners insurance may not cover flood damage, especially if a home is in a flood zone. Flood insurance can bridge the gap of coverage. The National Flood Insurance Program offers building coverage and contents coverage policies. Building coverage will cover carpeting, electrical and plumbing systems, window blinds, foundation walls, and more. Contents coverage protects curtains, personal clothing and furniture, artwork, and appliances, among other things.

UMBRELLA INSURANCE

According to Geico, umbrella insurance is extra insurance that provides protection that goes beyond limitations and coverage of other policies. It can offer coverage for injuries to people staying at your house or renting your property, property damage, personal liability, and certain lawsuits.

RENTERS INSURANCE

Renters insurance protects renters, yet the Independent Insurance Adjusters & Brokers of America says almost two-thirds of residential lessees in the United States do not carry renters insurance. Renters insurance can protect belongings destroyed in a fire or weather event; provide assistance should someone be injured in your apartment; or it can protect you if you were found legally responsible for damages to someone's property, according to State Farm Insurance.

Many types of insurance can offer various levels of protection in emergency situations. An insurance representative can walk interested parties through the policies available to customize an insurance package that will offer sufficient protection against emergencies.

moneytalk

Bills And Services To Cancel - And KeepWhen A Loved One Passes

By Tina M. Spinks, MPA

A loved one’s passing is challenging on many different levels. In addition to the emotional difficulty of processing someone’s death, there are also the many tasks that must be dealt with, such as going through their various accounts and taking the necessary steps to cancel them or transfer ownership.

Most people subscribe to multiple digital subscription services in addition to utilities, insurance, memberships, medical prescriptions, and other recurring payment programs. Settling these accounts helps avoid unnecessary charges and protect against identity theft and fraud. If the duty to handle outstanding accounts falls to you, you will first want to identify which accounts your loved one held and then figure out what to do with them.

Deciding Whether to Cancel or Keep an Account

The first step is to figure out what accounts the deceased had by looking through their mail, email, or phone notifications. You may get lucky, as the deceased may have compiled a list as part of their estate plan. Once you have identified what accounts were in the deceased’s name, you can move on to the next step of deciding whether to cancel or keep them.

Subscription Services

Subscription services are low-hanging fruit. Unless the service has a shared family plan, it can most likely be canceled.

The typical American has five subscription services, and one in five has eight or more subscription services. In addition to digital media services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, YouTube TV, and Apple TV, do not forget delivery services like Amazon Prime, Walmart+, and subscription box services.

Also keep in mind that Amazon Prime and Walmart+ members may have recurring monthly deliveries for certain items. And then there are digital subscriptions to newspapers and magazines, which may be linked to a Kindle account. Kindle Unlimited, which has 150 million subscribers, is another account that may need to be canceled.

Patronage Accounts

Independent content creators are a large contingent of the digital media ecosystem, and a growing number of services provide opportunities for “digital patronage,” or delivering direct, recurring support to online content creators.

Platforms that enable digital patronage include Patreon, Twitch, Substack, YouTube, and Facebook. Outside of these platforms, creators may enable patronage, such as subscriber-only content, through their own website.

You can check bank or credit card statements to find out if a loved one has any subscriptions to their favorite content creators. Like subscription services, patronage accounts are prime cancellation targets.

Utilities

Utilities may need to be temporarily kept in the deceased’s name, transferred to another account holder, or canceled, depending on the circumstances.

Keeping utilities in the name of the deceased should be okay on a shortterm basis while the estate is resolved, but you might want to check with the utility company.

•If utilities were in the deceased’s name and they lived with somebody else, the accounts should be transferred to that individual. The same goes for a family member who plans to take over occupancy or ownership. For example, the house may have been gifted to a beneficiary in the will or established as family property with joint sibling ownership.

•Utility accounts can be canceled following estate administration but consider the timing if the house is being put on the market. Typically, in the event of a sale, utilities are kept on until after closing.

•Although not technically a utility, a home security system deserves the same consideration as utilities. Security is particularly important for a home that is left vacant for extended periods while settling the estate.

•Do not deactivate a loved one’s cell phone service until you have retrieved all of the information you need from the phone. Again, this can include notifications about bills and other services that need to be canceled or transferred.

Miscellaneous Accounts

Many accounts fit into the main buckets listed above, but it may take a thorough sleuthing effort to uncover every account linked to a loved one’s name. Here are some more examples of accounts you may need to resolve, either by canceling or, where possible, transferring account ownership:

•Memberships to gyms, sports clubs, cultural institutions, unions, homeowners associations, Costco, and other fee-based groups or services

•Physical newspapers, newsletters, and magazines

•Social media and dating sites

•Financial advisor, personal trainer, accountant, life coach, etc.

•Pet-related dues and subscriptions

•Meal delivery services

•Music subscriptions (Pandora, Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Sirius XM, etc.)

Probate, Estate Administration, and Executor Legal Assistance

As you deal with the emotional challenges of a death in the family, you may be simultaneously navigating legal issues related to losing someone close to you. Being named an estate administrator or executor comes with a lot of responsibility. Our estate planning team offers services tailored to executors that help them do right by their loved one—and the law. For answers to your estate administration questions, reach out to our team. We serve the Greater Tampa Bay Area. Give

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How To Prevent Child Malnourishment

Sitting down to enjoy three meals a day is a luxury that's easily taken for granted. But many people, including children, are not getting enough food to be adequately nourished.

Food insecurity is a major issue in North America. According to Save the Children, one in six children in America struggles with hunger. Seventeen percent of all children are living in food-insecure households that cannot provide nutrition at some point during the year. A Household Food Insecurity in Canada study conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto found 15.9 percent of households across all 10 provinces experienced food insecurity in 2021. Around 5.8 million Canadians had some sort of food insecurity, which included 1.4 million children.

Households with lower incomes are more likely to be food insecure, say researchers. Experts anticipate that food insecurity and child malnourishment will only continue to get worse as incomes fail to keep up with inflation.

Health experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine say that more children suffer from malnutrition due to dietary imbalances rather than nutritional deficiencies in the United States. Children who are not getting adequate food may be short for their ages, thin or bloated, experience lack of energy, and have weakened immune systems. Malnourishment can produce changes in mood and other psychiatric symptoms as well.

The American Academy of Pediatrics issued a policy statement in 2018 highlighting the importance and irreversibility of the 1,000-day window. This refers to the nutrition kids receive from birth until their second birthdays and how it has a profound impact on how they develop. There's no catching up if kids are malnourished in this period of time, and malnourishment can produce a lower IQ and chronic medical problems in the future, advises the AAP.

Families facing food insecurity should seek assistance for the health and well-being of everyone involved. There may be government programs that allow for receipt of funds to apply toward food purchases for those who do not exceed certain income thresholds. For example, in the U.S., there is The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC program) to help low-income pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women, infants and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk. There's also the Food and Nutrition Services Supplemental

Food Assistance Program to provide for a nutritionally adequate diet for low-income families.

In addition to federal programs, children may qualify for reduced-cost or free school-based breakfast and lunch programs to gain access to balanced meals. Families also can take advantage of local food banks to help offset food deficiencies in homes.

Malnutrition and food insecurity are serious issues that can be addressed with wider recognition of these problems.

Many people, including children, are not getting enough food to be adequately nourished.

7 Signs A Pet Could Be In Pain

3. Accidents: Pets who are in pain could forget some of their hovertraining. Cats may urinate outside of the litter box, while dogs may have accidents indoors.

4. Reduced appetite: Being in pain or ill may reduce the desire to eat or drink in some pets. Pets who have dental issues may be even more reluctant to eat because chewing triggers the pain.

Pets and even wild animals can convey sentiments in various ways. It's human nature to want to assume that the passing glances of a puppy are looks of deep love - and they very well may be. Animals may convey various emotions through their behavior, but when it comes to being in pain, they may not show it readily. In the wild, animals hide pain as a survival instinct. Pain can give the perception that an animal is weaker and therefore an easier target for predators. Since pets can conceal pain well, pet owners should familiarize themselves with reading the subtle indicators that suggest something is amiss. PetMD, Sears Veterinary Hospital and VetsNow note the following are seven signs pets could be in pain.

1. Grumpy temperament: Does your typically amiable pet suddenly want nothing to do with you? Is he or she more aggressive or shying away from your touch? Pain can turn a happy-go-lucky pet into one that is much more moody and resistant to human interaction.

2. Excessive behaviors: A pet in pain may lick or scratch a specific area. Cats may howl or meow frequently.

Honor The Memory of a Much Loved Pet

5. Difficulties lying down or standing up: Pain that originates from injuries or arthritis can make it challenging for pets to sit, stand or lie down easily. Limping or having trouble walking are some additional indicators of injury or arthritis.

6. Changes in body posture: Most pet owners have a good idea of what their animals look like when they are relaxed and in good health. A pet who is hunched or especially rigid, or one hanging his or her head, could be masking pain.

7. Agitation or restlessness: Some pets cannot get settled when they're in pain. They may pace the house or not lie down long enough to get adequate rest.

Pet owners who spend enough time with their pets should be able to recognize a few signs that something is amiss and potentially indicative of an animal in pain. When such indicators present, schedule a visit with a veterinarian promptly to get to the root of the problem.

Pet owners who spend enough time with their pets should be able to recognize a few signs that something is amiss.

Women on the ROAD

Vroom

Car-like 2023 Infiniti QX50 Is An Exceptional Ride

QX50 (SPORT, AWD)

Tires: 255/45R20

Wheelbase: 110.2 inches

Length: 184.7 inches

Width: 74.9 inches

Height: 66 inches

Fuel Capacity: 16 gals

City: 22 mpg

Highway: 28 mpg

Weight: 4,116 pounds

Base Price: $50,500

Price As Tested: $52,815

Web site: www.infinitiusa.com

By Nitish S. Rele motoringtampabay@gmail.com

First, great news from Infiniti in general. Any 2023 model will now come with Infiniti Premium Care, an integrated maintenance program that includes up to three years of inspections, oil changes, tire rotations, brake fluid change, in cabin air-filter replacement and tire road hazard. The luxury division of Nissan has taken the right step at the right time while introducing an all-new Sport trim to the QX50 lineup.

Under the hood of the midsize luxury SUV sits a 2. 0-liter variable-compression 4-cylinder turbo engine that puts out 268 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 280 pounds-feet of torque at 4800 rpm. The slick and smooth continuous variable transmission shifts effortlessly. Ensuring stability at quick turns and bumps on the road is a MacPherson strut front and a rear multilink suspension. The variable-assist, direct adaptive steering conveys an unswerving feel. Braking duties are handled exceptionally well by 13-inch vented front and 12.1-inch rear discs. Four drive modes are offered: standard, eco, sport and personal.

Based on a steel unibody structure, QX50 is undoubtedly a boldly attractive vehicle beginning with a long clamshell hood that meets up with a double-arch black-metallic grille, surrounded by horizontal LED headlights and fog lamps. Gloss-black accents deck up the exterior all-round, including the black roof rails. The cabin is crammed with extravagance and lux-

ury features such as black aluminum accents on the center console, dashboard, doors, push-button ignition, 60/40-split rear seat, eight-way power heated/cooled front seats, dual auto a/c, 8-inch upper touch screen for navigation and a 7-inch lower screen for climate, audio and phone controls. InTouch, a rotary knob in the center console, controls the dual screens. Semi-aniline leather perforated seats look elegant. The familiar Infiniti double-wave instrument panel lights up with electroluminescent gauges. A mix of leather and aluminum on the short but easy-to-grip shifter knob convey a classy touch. As for roominess, there is plenty with a total interior volume of 135.8 cubic feet, and 64.4 cubic feet with the rear seat down. There also is a substantial hidden under-floor bin.

Standard safety features include dual front, side and knee airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, vehicle dynamic and traction controls, antiskid system, front/rear crumple zones, front seat active-head restraints, blind spot and lane departure warnings, around-view monitor, rear-cross traffic alert and tire pressure monitoring system. ProPilot Assist helps drivers to maintain their lane and set vehicle speed and distance to a car ahead.

Though lacking in the fuel efficiency department, this carlike crossover comes with plenty of lavish treats to pamper its occupants. And the lively QX50 is quick on the road, boasting a first-superb ride and praiseworthy handling. Infiniti Premium Care is an added bonus!

for more test- drive reviews, visit www. motoringtampabay.com

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