Lifestyles After 50 Lake/Marion Edition, December 2017

Lake, Marion ~ December 2017

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Lifestyles After 50 • Lake/Marion • December 2017 • page 2

PRESENTED BY

ICE! PRESENTED BY

Seasons Greetings

Lake Edition Published monthly by

W

hether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, or National Fruit Cake Day, December is unabashedly the best month of the year.

It is a brightly-lit, candy-coated, music-filled month all wrapped up in a big red satiny bow.

To me, it feels like a Friday all month long. You are ready for the work to end and the celebrations to begin.

Most everyone is in a good mood and goes out of his or her way to do nice things for others (except those parking space thieves at the mall that steal into that spot you’ve been patiently waiting for).

The biggest sales of the year happen now so shopping becomes imperative, right ladies?

Dress codes are relaxed. Ugly sweaters are the ultimate fashion statement (especially when embellished with cartoon characters, pompoms, lights, jingly things or shoulder pads for an 80s flair). No one will judge you for wearing a Santa hat or bright red jeggings in December.

But most of all, this is a time for optimism, good cheer and hope. It’s a time to think about your new, New Year’s Resolutions – do you even remember last year’s?

It’s a time to put all the challenges, sorrows and disappointments behind you. To reflect on this year’s mistakes and correct the course if things are headed in the wrong direction. To tidy up and get your house in order. (That means those of you who still have the plywood window décor installed may take it down now. The hurricane

“

News Connection USA, LLC Volume 28, Issue 12

CEO, News Connection USA, LLC Ed Graves Ed@lifestylesafter50.com

Editor

Terri Bryce Reeves Terri@lifestylesafter50.com

Website Coordinator

Allie Shaw Allie@lifestylesafter50.com

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Joe Gess Joe@lifestylesafter50.com

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813-653-1988 • 1-888-670-0040 Press Releases Editor@lifestylesafter50.com

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Event Coordinator

Dena Bingham: 813-293-1262 Dena@lifestylesafter50.com __________________________________

Our other editions:

season, thankfully, is over.)

But before you get started, take a few moments to peruse our December issue. We hope you find it relevant, rewarding, and informative.

December 12th is National Gingerbread House Day so in celebration we share its history and furnish you with a no-bake recipe to make your own little gingerbread hut.

It’s a great way to get in touch with your inner child and there’s nothing like an arts and crafts project that you can eat if it doesn’t turn out right.

Check out Mark Higley’s story on four-time Academy Award nominee Annette Benning and her intriguing

new movie, Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool. It’s about film noir star Gloria Grahame and her love affair with a much younger man.

Enjoy humor, fun, memories and advice from our six – count ‘em six – columnists.

And Kathy Megyeri gives you the lowdown on a memorable visit to the Plant and Edison and Ford Winter Estates museums, all beautifully decorated for the Holidays.

See you in 2018. Happy Holidays and God Bless!

Terri Reeves Editor

Even before Christmas has said ‘hello,” it’s saying ‘buy buy’. ~Robert Paul

”

Tampa Bay Edition: Hillsborough/East Pasco Suncoast Edition: Pinellas/West Pasco Sarasota Edition: Sarasota/Manatee Southwest Edition: Lee/Charlotte

To learn more, call 1-888-670-0040

News Connection USA, LLC P.O. Box 638 Seffner, Florida 33583-0638 Fax: (813) 331-2634 www.lifestylesafter50.com

Attention Readers: The articles printed in Lifestyles After 50 do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Editor or the staff. Lifestyles After 50 endeavors to accept reliable advertising; however, we cannot be held responsible by the public for advertising claims. Lifestyles After 50 reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertisement. Our advertising deadline for each issue is the 15th of the previous month. Magazines are out by the 7th of each month. All rights reserved.

As a reader of Lifestyles After 50, you are creating an established relationship with our advertisers. You may be contacted by email, telephone or mail as allowed by law.

Lifestyles After 50 • Lake/Marion • December 2017 • page 3

local events around town • december 2017 Date: December 4 Event: Rocky and The Rollers Time: 5 - 9 p.m.

Cost: free Spanish Springs Town Square 1120 Main Street The Villages 32159 352-753-2270 thevillagesentertaiment.com Date: December 7 Event:The 7th Annual Creative Coilers Pine Needle Basket Club Ornament and Bake Sale Time: 8 – 11 a.m.

Cost:Free lake miona 10501 County Rd 115 32162 352-750-8309

Date: December 7 Event: 7th Annual Winter Wonderland Concert and Sing-a-long Time: 7 p.m.

Cost: $20 Rohan Rec Center 850 Kristine Way Wildwood 34785 352-674-8400 thevillagesentertainment.com Date: Through December 9 Event: 22nd Annual Leesburg Christmas House Time: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Cost: Fundraiser ViaPort 10401 US HWY 441 Leesburg 34788 352-365-0053 leesburgpartnership.com

Date: December 9 Event: Ocala/Marion County Christmas Parade Time: 5:30 - 9 p.m.

Cost: Free (Parade begins at) mcPherson Governmental complex Silver Springs Blvd. from NE 25th Ave to NE 8 Ave. 34470 352-897-0198 ocalafl.org

Date: December 10 & 17 Event: A Christmas Carol Time: 2 p.m.

Cost: $18

Date: Event: Time: Cost:

Thursdays Meditation at the Library 4 p.m.

Free

Date: Event: Time: Cost:

Leesburg Public Library 100 E. Main Street Leesburg 34748 352-728-9790 leesburgflorida.gov

mount dora community building Theater 520 North Baker Street Mount Dora 32757 352-383-2165 mountdoralive.com

David Weekley Homeowners Lori Rust & Kevin Jordan

melon Patch Players 311 N. 13th Street Leesburg 34748 352-787-3013 melonpatchplayers.org December 17 The Nutcracker 2 p.m. $20 /$45

Date: December 21 Event: Cool Cars Under the Stars Time: 5 - 8 p.m.

Cost: free Great chicago Fire brewery & Tap Room 311 W. Magnolia Leesburg 34748 Phone:352-474-2739 Website:leesburgpartnership.com

Submit : Around Town events!

mail: News Connection USA, Inc., PO Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583

email: info@lifestylesafter50.com

DeaDline: 10th of the month prior

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Lifestyles After 50 • Lake/Marion • December 2017 • page 4

Film

FILM STARS DON’T DIE YOUNG

Annette Bening to Play Long Sought After Role of Gloria Grahame

By MARK HIGLEy

Jimmy Stewart and Gloria Grahame in It’s a Wonderful Life young Turner (Jason Bell) and the once-popular movie star Grahame in 1978 Liverpool.

Annette Bening and Jason Bell in Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool Grahame, in her late ‘50s, has cancer and keeps her secret ctress Annette Bening has long harbored hidden from Turner. It’s an affectionate, moving and ambitions to play the role of Academy Award wry recollection of an unusual story with a powerful winner Gloria Grahame. And not just because the cast that includes Academy Award winner Vanessa eccentric Grahame desired much younger guys.

Redgrave, Stephen Graham, Kenneth Cranham, and “She had a really interesting presence on screen Julie Walters. and she was a good listener. When you watch her, you Barbara Broccoli, one of the producers, knew feel like there’s an inner life going on and that is what Grahame and Turner when they were together. She had is compelling about her,” said Bening. first spoken to Bening about the part over two decades Now Bening, a four-time nominee, may very well ago, but Bening would have been too young to play it slip in through the back door of the Oscar race with back then. Now at 59, Bening is perfect. her portrayal of the actress often cast as the “tart with “Annette is the only person I would want to play a heart.” this role,” said Broccoli. “She is such a great actress Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool is set to open but she also connects with the character in a profound Dec 22. way.”

Based on Peter Turner’s 1986 memoir, the film It doesn’t hurt, either, that there is an uncanny follows the December-May romance between the physical resemblance between the two actresses.

A

Audiences may not recognize Grahame’s name right away but they will remember her as the gal who couldn’t say no in Oklahoma.

She was nominated for an Oscar in Crossfire, snatched one up in The Bad and the Beautiful and played the flirtatious Violet in It’s A Wonderful Life. She brought plenty of vim to the part of the elephant girl in The Greatest Show on Earth.

Most of her best work was done in the ‘40s and ‘50s before her sparkling movie career took a nose dive.

Bening became fascinated with Grahame when she was making the 1990 film The Grifters with director Stephen Frears.

“When I was working on that film Stephen mentioned her to me. The Grifters was a noiresque movie and so it made sense to look at film noir anyway and the women of that period and the way that they were portrayed. Gloria, of course, holds a special place in that period.”

The filmmakers wanted to tell Grahame’s story, but in a tactful and delicate manner, much the same as in Turner’s book so there was little weight given to Grahame’s propensity for lust or taboo.

She was married four times. Her fourth and most salacious marriage was to actor Anthony “Tony” Ray, 17 years her junior -- and her stepson. Their tryst reportedly began when Tony was 13 years old.

Said Bening, “She (Grahame) is not Marilyn Monroe but there is something very unique about her and, God knows, about her personal life. Then looking at this connection she had with Peter, I have ended up thinking that he must have been the gentlest, most loving, accepting person that she probably had ever been with. We need to show that.”

Lifestyles After 50 • Lake/Marion • December 2017 • page 5

Social Security Social Security ~ The Gift That Keeps Giving

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s you prepare for a financially secure future, know that there are five benefits that you, your spouse, and your children may become eligible for through Social Security: Retirement benefits -- If you’ve earned enough credits, you can start receiving your full retirement benefits at age 66 or 67 — depending on when you were born. You may choose to claim reduced benefits as early as age 62, but waiting until after your full retirement age increases your benefit amount by up to 8 percent per year to age 70.

Disability benefits offer a financial lifeline if you’re struck by a serious medical condition that makes it impossible for you to work for at least a year or that will result in death.

Child benefits support your minor children while you’re receiving retirement or disability benefits. This financial support also is available to adult children who become disabled before age 22. Grandchildren and stepchildren may qualify in certain situations.

Spousal benefits supplement a couple’s income if one of the two never worked or had low lifetime earnings. In some cases, this benefit is also available to divorced spouses.

Survivor benefits ease the financial burden on your loved ones after you die by providing monthly payments to eligible widows, widowers, children, and dependent parents. It’s likely the survivor benefits you have under Social Security carry greater value than your individual life-insurance policy.

Visit www.socialsecurity.gov for more information.

Humor

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Lifestyles After 50 • Lake/Marion • December 2017 • page 6

it’s more about who is a Friend on Facebook

Happy Holi-stays

I

’ve been a long-distance grandmother for a few years now and I look at the holidays as one big, beautiful excuse to visit our grandchildren who live far away.

I have to admit that there were some years when I went with great anticipation and impossibly high expectations – and invariably returned home depressed.

Iris and her grandson, Levi Pike Pastor From this I’ve gained some hardwon insight which birthed the mantra: Kids get cranky, parents get tired; raising kids is a tough job so everyone deserves some slack.

My first bit of advice is to keep the visit short. What works for me is a maximum of four days and three nights in each of my kid’s homes.

Tops. Like Jerry Seinfeld has said, “Always leave them wanting more.”

Accept the fact that some family members welcome you less dramatically and with less fanfare than others and that it has little to do with their

feelings and more to do with their innate personalities.

And allow yourself some “down time” to partake in activities endemic to the area where they live. No one is overly invested in spending 24 hours per day with grandma anyway.

When you are together, relax and enjoy the magical moments that just unfold organically when you are all in the same room.

Face it. Technology is here to stay. When the grands inevitably bring out the devices, cuddle up on the sofa together, use the time to check your email, and view this technological preoccupation as “companionable silence.”

When it comes to doling out advice, keep your remarks and observations to matters deemed “critical” to your grandchildren’s health and safety. Remember how you felt on the receiving end when your parents and in-laws would intervene.

If the grandkids overindulge in a second bowl of caramel crunch ice cream -- even though they left four string beans on their plate -- let their parents deal with it. Your job is to enjoy them.

It’s all about keeping expectations real and ceasing to be self-absorbed and needy.

When this happens you will return home with a happy heart and spirit to match. You will have achieved a new level of wisdom. Let them have some space and welcome them with open arms when they were ready to seek you out.

And don’t forget to leave early on the fourth day.

Contact Iris at irisruthpastor@gmail.com. Sign up for her weekly newsletter or secure her as a speaker: www.irisruthpastor.com. Follow Iris on Instagram.

Raised Here.

Stays Here.

Invested Here.

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352-787-7530 • www.uwls.org

Pet Safety Stuff Yourself Not the Pets

T

he holidays are wonderful times to get together with family and friends, but they also pose risks to your pets who digest food differently than we do. Help keep the little turkeys healthy by following these safety tips.

Foods Foods you may feed your pets include plain, white turkey meat; plain sweet potatoes, yams, and canned pumpkin; raw apples (no seeds); steamed vegetables (green beans or broccoli) and rice.

Foods you SHOULD NOT feed your pets are turkey skin, drippings, gravy, twine or bones; corn on the cob; onions, garlic and mushrooms; raisins and grapes; sage; fat trimmings and fatty foods; bread dough; chocolate, sweets and alcohol.

In addition: • Keep your pets away from all decorative plants and festive table decorations (they may contain toxic plants).

• Make sure all foods are not close to table and counter edges.

• Put trash where your pet can’t reach it.

• Make sure IDs are on your pet in case they bolt out the door as you’re welcoming guests.

• Know where your closest pet emergency center is located in case of problems. ~ Tips Courtesy Animal Hospital of Dunedin Lifestyles After 50 • Lake/Marion • December 2017 • page 7

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Health

Healthy Eating Strategies for the Holidays W

hen an average slice of pumpkin pie and scoop of vanilla ice cream can contain 46 grams of sugar – nearly twice the recommended daily added sugar intake of 25 grams for women and well above the recommendation of 36 grams for men– the holidays can be hazardous for anyone watching their waistlines.

Sweets are never more available and tempting than during the holiday season, but with some healthy swaps and strategies, it’s easy to eat healthier this holiday season.

• When preparing desserts, substitute whole-wheat flour instead of regular flour in a recipe to make it healthier, or use ½ regular and ½ whole-wheat if you want to ease into it.

• Mashed bananas and applesauce make great substitutions for fat in a recipe.

• Natural sweeteners such as shredded carrots, zucchini or beets can also be incorporated into recipes so you won’t need to use as much sugar.

• Prepare small desserts such as mini-cheesecakes or mini-cupcakes to help with portion control.

• Always have some berries as a side with your dessert – they’re naturally filling and you won’t be Lifestyles After 50 • Lake/Marion • December 2017 • page 8

as tempted to eat as much dessert.

• Don’t starve yourself or skip a meal in anticipation of a holiday party feast later in the day. Your body will hold on to every calorie and you’ll end up putting on more weight.

• To prevent overindulging, eat something filling before going to a party so you don’t arrive hungry.

• If you have a special dietary restriction or a health condition that prohibits you from eating certain foods, let the host of your party know ahead of time. Generally, they will accommodate you because they want you to have a good time. If not, you ate that toast ahead of time, right?

• Holidays can be a stressful time, which can result in eating more food. Instead, try to deal with stress by going for a walk each day, or doing activities like yoga or meditation.

• Eat what you want in moderation, said Shreela Sharma, associate professor in the Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and

Environmental at University of Texas Health School of Public Health. “Denying ourselves food groups never works,” she said. “Food is not the enemy – it’s such an important part of who we are and our social lives. It’s portioning that’s the big trick.”

Source: University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

FINAL PHASE JUST RELEASED DON’T MISS OUT!

Fa-la-la-la-la in Florida

I

was watching the weather on TV today and the weatherman an n o u n c e d th a t t h e s u n was out, a gator saw its shadow and now we’re having six more months of summer.

There are just some things that I, a former northeasterner, am having a hard time getting used to!

Moving here has had many benefits, but it also requires some accommodation.

I don’t mind one bit that I’ve had to up my pedicure budget since my toes are no longer hidden inside warm winter socks. Getting a foot massage and my toes painted is a small price to pay for no longer having to buy, store and wear all those heavy winter clothes.

I no longer shriek if an iguana is found swimming laps in my pool, a falling coconut narrowly misses my head, or a lizard scampers across my bedsheets in the middle of the night. (Now a roach is a different matter.)

I have accepted that we have three seasons rather than four: warm, hot and hotter and that hurricanes bring refreshing bouts of cooler air, albeit, at 100 or more miles an hour.

But I simply can’t get used to Christmas in Florida.

My nose should be red from the cold, not sunburn. The Salvation Army person outside the supermarket should not be

perspiring. And the sight of a woman in a skimpy bathing suit, standing on a ladder stringing up Christmas lights is just wrong on so many levels.

B u t m o s t l y, i t ’s t h e h o l i d a y music. The lyrics are completely out of sync with our reality. Just think about poor Frosty the Snowman. Here, he’s in a life-and-death struggle for survival, which, of course, he will ultimately lose.

I recommend that some of our favorites be rewritten to more authentically reflect the weather outside, which is far from frightful.

I offer the following suggestions: The first revision is to the song, Oh Christmas Tree.

Oh humidity, oh humidity You’re withering my Christmas tree....

Silver Bells is much more suitable as: Silver shells, silver shells It’s Christmas time in Miami....

This last change is to Winter Wonderland.

The a/c sings, are you listenin’ On my skin, sweat is glistenin’...

In the meantime, I’ll be humming Fa-la-la-la-la in Florida.

Susan Goldfein holds a doctorate in Communication Disorders from Teachers College, Columbia University, and enjoyed a successful career as a clinician, teacher, and consultant. For more essays filled with wit, wisdom and irony, visit Susan’s blog, www.susansunfilteredwit.com. Her book, “How Old Am I in Dog Years?” may be purchased on Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com

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Lifestyles After 50 • Lake/Marion • December 2017 • page 9

The True Tale of the Gingerbread Man

How an Armenian monk brought gingerbread to the West and happiness to children, young and old…

By TERRI BRyCE REEVES St Gregory

T

hank Armenian monk, Gregory Markar of Nicopolis, if you are a gingerbread aficionado. After he was chased out of his homeland by the Persian Army in the 10th century, he arrived in France where he led a simple life, living off wild roots and honey.

He became a well-liked holy man in his new country and introduced French Christians to gingerbread, a dark concoction made from honey and spices. The French taught the Germans how to make it, they taught the Swedes and so forth.

When the Brothers Grimm created the tale of Hansel and Gretel, the notion of festive snowy cottages made out of gingerbread became a popular one.

Today gingerbread houses are symbols of the holiday season; December 12 is National Gingerbread House Day.

The 2017 Gingerbread Festival returns to Westfield Sarasota Square December 15-17.

Gingerbread houses, crafted by more than 150 local schools, youth groups, businesses, and nonprofit organizations will be on display.

Houses on display may be reserved for purchase.

Those wishing to make their own gingerbread palace should check out www.gingerbreadhouse-heaven.com which features a variety of recipes, photos and templates – from the simple to the very elaborate. Be warned: some of these projects could take up a whole weekend to make.

Not into that kind of herculean effort?

Consider gingerbread kits which have everything you need inside; just assemble and decorate. Or try the recipe below which is easy and fun to make.

Gingerbread Hut Recipe

Graham crackers are the foundation for this project, so grab the grands for some memorable family time.

Ingredients: Graham crackers, original or chocolate-flavored (6 per house) Royal Icing: 3 c. powdered sugar, 2 egg whites, and 1 tsp. vanilla extract Paper plates to build on Assorted candy, sticks of gum, sprinkles, cereal, pretzels.

Lifestyles After 50 • Lake/Marion • December 2017 • page 10

Directions: • Make the icing by whipping up the egg whites until frothy. Add the sugar and vanilla and whip for 7 to 9 minutes – until the icing makes stiff peaks.

Load icing into a quart-size Ziploc bag. Cut a tiny hole cut in one corner.

• Cut ¼ piece off of the ends of 4 crackers using a serrated knife and gentle pressure. To form two gable end pieces, take two of those crackers and cut diagonal lines from the long centerline to the midline. You will have two rectangular sides and two gable ends. The two remaining full-size crackers will be used for the roof.

• To assemble, pipe a line of icing along the bottom of one of the rectangular sides and adhere it to a paper plate. Pipe icing along the bottom and inside edges of one of the gabled ends and join the two pieces together, carefully sticking the gable panel to the paper plate as well.

• Repeat with other side wall and gable end and you will have the base of your house built.

Let the icing set up for 30 minutes.

• Apply icing along the top of the two gable panels and attach the roof.

• Pipe icing along the peak of the roof for extra stability. Allow to dry for at least another 30 minutes; overnight drying is ideal.

• Decorate with icing and your favorite candies or treats.

Grand Memories

By VICKy HAWKINS

E

ach year, as the holiday season rolls around, I remember our own Diners, Drive-Ins and Dive duo. my grandparents who brought their own special brand of Grandma Gertrude was the Elmer’s glue that fixed and held enchantment to the table. things together. Her contagious smile, beauty, grace, love for dance, Grandma Gertrude was known for her and extensive costume jewelry collection delicious southern cuisines such as her sweet would have made any woman stop in awe. made-from-scratch pound cakes and famous macGrandma Gertrude perfected the person and-cheese. I always thought it was fascinating that I was to become by pouring her how “Santa” knew exactly what gifts to distribute “learned” lessons of life onto my heart. to each particular person no matter who was Wiser than our years, grandparents visiting. Their home, where our entire family personify a distinct classification that gathered each year, bestowed inviting warmth. resembles none other. With their child I am now an adult in my mid-30s and the rearing days in the rear view mirror, daily memories of Paw Paw Arty and Grandma common stresses of life’s complexity aren’t Gertrude (my mother ’s parents) and their as pressing, which allows the true meaning profound love, old adages, and “When I was…” of life to beam through their everyday sayings frequent my mind. To me they were the existence. epitome of an electric current, sending a charge With the holiday season amongst us, through my childlike body that left me yearning it’s such a joyous time to reflect on those for more. that have impacted us the most. Even At the tender age of 4, I began to spend my though they are no longer with us, those summers with them in the heart of Louisville, that go before us have unintentionally Ky. Each summer, those 2 1/2 months were forged their “grandparenting” blueprint Vicky Hawkins preoccupied with vacation bible school, weekly into our family legacies. library visits, outdoor playtime with cousins, lunch soap opera My Paw Paw Arty and Grandma Gertrude had a big part in recaps, and endless excursions with my Paw Paw Arty. And when it molding me into the woman that I am today. They didn’t have much, came to finding yummy delicacies of the South, Paw Paw and I were but they gave me the world – with milk and cookies on the side!

Is Your Pet The Cutest?

Enter to win Lifestyle After 50.com’s Cutest Pet Contest!

We got our “lab” report back and this contest is going so well and the feedback has been so “paw-sitive” we are going to extend it until January 15. (Pardon our puns but we just can’t “whelp” ourselves.) Prizes to be awarded to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners!

Every vote counts!

Even our pets need heros, so spread the word.

Call your friends, your family, your co-workers, your neighbors and ask them to log onto LifeStylesAfter50.com and vote for YOUR pet.

How to SEND your photos: • Log on to LifestylesAfter50.com • Click on the “Cutest Pet Photo Contest” button • Fill out the form and submit your photo How to VOTE on your favorite photo: • Log on to LifestylesAfter50.com • Click on the “Cutest Pet Photo Contest” button • Click on “Vote Here” • Vote for your favorite photo

Voting is $1 per vote and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to local animal rescue organizations.

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Don’t wait. Vote by Jan. 15th!

Lifestyles After 50 • Lake/Marion • December 2017 • page 11

Museum Magic

Historical Museums Shine in Tampa and Ft. Myers

By KATHy MEGyERI

Take a Stroll, Victorian Style

Edison & Ford Winter Estates Light Up the Nights

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xperience the extravagance and grandeur of a Victorian Christmas at the Henry B. Plant Museum’s 36th Annual Victorian Christmas Stroll.

Allowing visitors a glimpse into the magic of Christmas past, the event runs daily through December 23, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Situated on the University of Tampa’s campus, the Plant museum is located in the south wing of the original 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel. It features original opulent furnishings and artifacts collected by Mr. and Mrs. Plant during America’s Gilded Age. It’s especially beautiful this time of the year decorated with a plethora of antique trees, children’s toys, vintage fashions, colorful nutcrackers and holiday garlands. View amazing adornments that harken back to the Tampa Bay area’s history of aviation. Of special note is the Plant System of Railroads train and an interactive sensory tree activity for visitors with sensory disabilities.

Complimentary cider and cookies will be served on the veranda each day while holiday music fills the air. Guests can enjoy live music each evening from 6 to 8 p.m.

Shoppers in the Museum Store will find snuggly Teddy Bears available for purchase. Buy one and the Museum will donate another to the Tampa Police Department’s Family Violence Unit.

The Museum will host a number of special performances during the Stroll.

Included are: • Dec. 3, 10, 17: Upstairs/Downstairs Live Theater, 2 p.m.

• Dec. 9: Metropolitan Youth Orchestra • Dec. 21: Music in the Museum, 11 a.m.

The Museum, located at 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., is open daily, Dec. 1-23, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission during the Victorian Christmas Stroll is $15 adults, $13 seniors, $9 youth (4-18). Discount and family days are December 4, 5, 11, and 12 with admission at $11 for adults, $10 for seniors, $7 for youth (4-18). Proceeds from the Stroll fund museum restoration and preservation projects, as well as educational programming.

Visit www.plantmuseum.com or call (813) 254-1891 for more information.

Lifestyles After 50 • Lake/Marion • December 2017 • page 12

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ated as one of the top ten Best Historic Homes for the Holidays in the nation

by USA Today, the Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Ft. Myers will present its 42nd celebration of Holiday Nights nightly through New Year’s Eve. This event has become a tradition in Southwest Florida and is a top destination for visitors around the globe.

Each year, the winter estate homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford shine with thousands of lights and vintage decorations. This year’s theme, A Star Spangled Holiday, presents in the colors of red, white and blue -- the colors of Thomas Edison’s first strand of Christmas lights.

Two new exhibits will welcome guests in 2017: the Timeline of Innovation, a chronological exhibit of both Edison’s and Ford’s major inventions, as well as the Smithsonian Spark! Lab, an interactive hands-on exhibit.

The hugely popular Waltzing Waters Liquid Fireworks light show on the river will return and the traditional Children’s Tree Trail will include more than 60 trees decorated by school children.

History characters “Mr. and Mrs. Edison” and “Mr. and Mrs. Ford” will host a special Holiday Tea on December 13 at 6:30 p.m. Santa visits on select nights and holiday carolers will generate musical cheer.

Tours are offered nightly and a sightseeing river cruise is available through Pure Florida at the Marina at Edison Ford.

Holiday Nights tickets for adults are $20, teens (13-19) $10, children (6-12) $2, and children 5 and under are free. Edison Ford members are admitted free.

Guided Holiday Tradition Tours are $30 for adults, teens are $25, children $18 and $10 for Edison Ford members. Inside-the-Homes Holiday Tours are $50.

Visitors are able to view the lights from 5:30–9 p.m. nightly now through Dec. 31, except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. To confirm tour times, visit www.

EdisonFordWinterEstates.org or call (239) 334-7419.

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Marion County Parks and Recreation offers

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES!

Programs are guided and equipment is provided.

MARION COUNTY SENIOR SOFTBALL Men 55 and up / Women 50 and up Ralph Russell Park Mondays / Wednesdays / Fridays

KAYAK/PADDLEBOARD 101 AT CARNEY ISLAND

May 6 / Kayak 101 April 1 / Paddleboard 101

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Thursdays and Saturdays Dec. 7 / Chazz (Intermediate) Dec. 30 / Ray Wayside to Gores Landing Jan. 11 / Weeki Wachee Jan. 20 / Wekiva - Katie’s Landing (Intermediate) Feb. 8 / Fanning to Manatee Springs Feb. 17 / Ichetucknee

EXPLORE MARION COUNTY INTERPRETIVE NATURE WALKS

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FILL IN ANSWERS & WIN MONEY!

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Enter To Win!

ECO TRAM TOURS

SEARCH, REGISTER and PAY 24/7 online MarionParksRec.org. For more information, contact Marion County Parks and Recreation at 352-671-8560 or parks@marioncountyfl.org

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seniors Getting Together WomEn sEEKinG mEn 4757 - my nAmE is CHARiTy. I’m mature, single, cuddly with short blonde hair, blue eyes, 5’7”, 654kg, and very attractive. I’m a nurse and have been for 7 yrs.

I am very caring, honest & trustworthy. I live alone and care very much about other people’s feelings. I enjoy gardening, cinema, cozy nights in with a bottle of wine, swimming, watching some sport and good movies. I am looking for a guy aged from 50 and above and good looking, honest and trustworthy. I am in need of tender loving and care. Write soon.

4738 - i Am sinGLE, CUDDLy with long blonde hair, blue eyes, 5’7”. I’m very attractive. I am a nurse and have been for 121 years. I am very much about other people’s feelings. I am very loving, enjoy gardening, cinema, cozy nights in with a bottle of wine, swimming, watching some sport and good movies. I seek a serious marriage minded matured guy. Someone good looking, honest and trustworthy. I am in need of tender loving care. Write me a letter now with your contact and arrange to meet for a cup of coffee.

4745 - W, W, F. Like to meet affectionate, honest, caring, loving gentleman, 65-85, non-smoker, social drinker, long term relationship. Love country music, dancing, dining out, fun times. Life to short. Will answer all. Fruitland Park.

4686 - WWF. A lady would like to meet a nice gentleman in his 70-80, for friendship. Non smoking.

Own my home, car and financially secure. Only serious need apply.

4687 - sWF. Senior Citizen somewhere awaits forever special gentleman to continue my life journey with.

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4688 - sWF. 80 yRs yoUnG. 5’2” slender. Don’t feel my age. Like to meet loving affectionate, caring man. Day trips, dancing, NS, likes animals. 75 to 82. Financially secure. Ocala area.

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

Florida.

4568 sWF, sEnsE oF HUmoR, very active, sincere.

Seeking SWM, non-smoker, 70-80, enjoy travel, cruises, movies, dining out, country music. Ocala area. Desire LTR. 4721 - WWF soCiAL bUTTERFLy. 5’4”, slender, very active life, NS, loving, caring, attractive, witty, classy “Southern Bell”. Looking for WM, sincere, caring & witty who is professional and self sufficient. mEn sEEKinG WomEn 4759 - WE nEED To mEET before the holidays go by.

I have a lifetime of education, met the finest people in the world but not you! Time we got together. Ocala, Fl 4732 - sECURE sWm. Seeks cute SF who is seeking to share life/home. I’M 5’7”, 150#, wanting affectionate, romantic, easy going, NS, fun partner. Life is short.

Don’t be alone. All answered with photo and phone.

4744 - sWm sEEKs sLim FEmALE. Affectionate, romantic, fun, non-smoking to share my home, life.

I am 5’7”, 150, easy going, loving, sober. Life’s short.

All answered with photo, phone. Venice area.

4733 - sECURE sWm. Seeks cute SF who is seeking to share life/home. I’m 5’7”, 150#, wanting affectionate, romantic, easy going, NS fun partner. Life is short. Don’t be alone. All answered with photo and phone.

4722 - PLEAsE yoU - PLEAsE mE. sWm seeks SWF who’s normal and mentally stable. Who likes movies, walking, music, flea markets, mini golf, adult time together. I’m an average guy, not a super hero or a movie star. Age is open.

4720 - sWm CoWboy AT HEART. 6’3”, 168 lbs. Enjoys country music, staying fit, golfing. Retired seeking SWF, NS, 55 to 60 for dinner, quiet times, LTR with nice, fit lady. Send photo. Ocala area.

4719 - sWm, 58. Looking for companionship. Looks are not important. Sincerity is. Slightly disabled. I smoke but I do not do drugs. Bushnell 4507 - sEEKinG sWF, outing’s and more. SWM, 70’s, 5’11”, slender, many interest’s. Brownwood/Wildwood area.

4718 - sWm, RETiRED professional business man.

Nice, college educated, handsome, creative, handy, business owner. Loves dancing, music, singing, likes reading, conversation, writing, golfing. ISO LTR with a nice lady 55-70 yo.

4717 - 5’7”, 140lbs, 73yrs, clean and safe. Seeking widowers, married, divorced, single, transgenders, gentlemen, to enjoy each other. Any size. Write me, I’m waiting.

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

To REsPonD To An AD: Write a letter to the person you want to contact. Place that letter in a stamped envelope and write the ad # on the bottom left hand side of the envelope. Place your stamped, numbered envelope(s), along with $2 for each letter enclosed, into another envelope and address it to: News Connection USA Seniors Getting Together P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583 CommonLy UsED AbbREviATions: F-Female, M-Male, S-Single, D-Divorced, WWWidow, A-Asian, B-Black, H-Hispanic, I-Indian, W-White, C-Christian, J-Jewish, YO-Years Old, YY-Years Young, ISO-In Search Of, SOH-Sense Of Humor, SM-Smokes, S-Light Smoker, NSNon Smoker, ND-Non Drinker, SD-Social (Light) Drinker, DR-Drinks, NDrg- No Drugs, LTR-Long Term Relationship, HWP-Height & Weight Proportional, R-Retired, P-Professional, FF-Friendship First, TLC-Tender Loving Care.

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MAIL TO: ATTN. / SENIORS GETTING TOGETHER NEWS CONNECTION, USA, INC. • PO BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583 Lifestyles After 50 • Lake/Marion • December 2017 • page 14

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Parka ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________ ____________________

S G H Y

Y A E G Y H W

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

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

Mystery Prize!

WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES!

Mystery Prize!

(Puzzles must be received by the 20th of the month)

Lifestyles After 50 • Lake/Marion • December 2017 • page 15

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Seeing past the digital image – how RAO puts patients first

W

hen your doctor prescribes an imaging test to discover the presence, cause and/ or location of disease or injury somewhere within your body, or you elect to have a voluntary screening scan such as a mammogram or an interventional service like varicose vein treatment, it can be challenging to know which radiology practice to choose. We recommend talking to your doctor about the practice he or she has relied on most successfully over the years. Chances are, it’s Radiology Associates of Ocala.

Why RAO? There are a myriad of reasons, all falling under the umbrella of our commitment to putting our patients’ healthcare needs and emotional concerns above all else. Here are a few things that have made RAO a local leader in diagnostic and interventional services for more than 40 years: Advanced Technologies – RAO’s four affiliated offices, Medical Imaging Center, Medical Imaging Center at Windsor Oaks, Women’s Imaging Center and TimberRidge Imaging Center, offer a full range of technologically advanced imaging services from bone scans, 3D mammography™ exams and ultrasound to nuclear medicine, MRI and PET/CT. We also perform safe, minimally invasive vascular procedures at our Center for Vascular Health, making us a full-service provider.

Longevity in Practice – Since 1973, the doctors and communities of Marion County have trusted locally owned and operated RAO for state-of-the-art medical imaging services. Because our practice and its people, from doctors to technologists to support staff, all live and work locally, we are more than just healthcare providers – we are your neighbors and members of the community we cherish. And when you have questions, we have caring staff available close to home. When it comes to your health, that can make all the difference.

Exceptionally Trained Personnel – Our team of 18 radiologists is composed of licensed physicians with sub-specialty fellowship training in their areas of practice and Board Certified by the American Board of Radiology. Our doctors are 4-MatureLIfestyles_HalfPage.pdf

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the exclusive providers at the area’s most respected and trusted hospitals: Munroe Regional Medical Center, Ocala Regional Medical Center and West Marion Community Hospital.

RAO’s team of nationally-certified radiologic technologists are expertly trained in the advanced equipment we use and the specific diagnostic procedures they perform, as well as the most stringent safety protocols.

Commitment to Quality – RAO and its doctors continually investigate the latest in diagnostic and therapeutic services, and employ those that prove to be the safest and most effective. We work directly with your doctor to determine the best modality for your individual case, and, when warranted, help your doctor devise the most effective treatment plan. Our practice maintains continuing accreditation in key diagnostic services from the American College of Radiology, so you can feel confident about the regulation and oversight of your services.

RAO’s Women’s Imaging Center and TimberRidge Imaging Center have been designated Breast Imaging Centers of Excellence by the American College of Radiology, an honor bestowed to very few Florida healthcare providers, so you can trust you’re getting the best possible care.

When you need a radiologic scan or service, talk to your doctor about RAO. We are committed to your health, comfort and satisfaction.

8:12 AM

PET/CT

Providing a Full Circle of Information

A Circle of

CARE

Centered on

YOU

PET/CT combines two vital diagnostic tests in a single scan, providing comprehensive details about heart disease, cancer, gastrointestinal disorders and more. It can even rule out Alzheimer’s disease.

For advanced PET/CT and experienced, caring professionals, the name to know is RAO.

RADIOLOGY ASSOCIATES OF OCALA, P.A.

(352) 671-4300 www.RAOcala.com

BOARD CERTIFIED, FELLOWSHIP TRAINED RADIOLOGISTS: from left to right: Ralf R. Barckhausen, MD, Malcolm E. Williamson, II, MD and Fredric C. Wollett, MD We are proudly contracted with a variety of insurances and file all claims with the exception of non-contracted HMO's. Please visit our website for a detailed list of who we are contracted with. Contracted insurances are subject to change.