Lifestyles After 50 Southwest/Lee/Charlotte Edition, December 2017

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Seasons Greetings

Southwest 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

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Terri Bryce Reeves Terri@lifestylesafter50.com

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Allie Shaw Allie@lifestylesafter50.com

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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

”

Lake Edition: Lake/Marion/Sumter Suncoast Edition: Pinellas/West Pasco Sarasota Edition: Sarasota/Manatee Tampa Bay Edition: Hillsborough/East Pasco

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 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 3

local events around town • december 2017 Date: ThroughDecember 7 Event: Punta Gorda Founders’ Day Week (Punta Gorda History Park’s Candy Canes and Santa Claus)

Time: 5 – 8 p.m.

Cost: Donation $10 Punta Gorda History Park Multiple locations in Punta Gorda (501 Shreve St., Punta Gorda) 33950

941-639-1887 puntagordachamber.com/ punta-gorda-founders-week/ Date: December 8 - 10 Event: Naples Live Nativity Time: 6– 8 p.m.

Cost: Free seagate baptist church 1010 Whippoorwill Lane Naples 34105 239-261-0122 seagatebaptistchurch.com

Date: December 9 Event: Cape Bike Night Time: 5 – 10 p.m.

Cost: Free/ $5 for other entertainment several blocks along terrace SE47th Terrace Cape Coral 33904 239-573-3128 ccbikenight.com Date: December 9 Event: Tree Lighting & Poinsettia Festival Time: 6– 9:30 p.m.

Cost: Free City Center Front Green 4970 City Hall Blvd.

North Port 34286 941-429-7275 cityofnorthport.com

Date: December 14 Event: Tuba Christmas Concert Time: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Cost: Free Sugden Plaza 701 Fifth Ave. S. Naples 34102 239-692-8436 paradisecoast.com

Date: December 17 Event: Bluegrass Music Time: 2 – 5 p.m.

Cost: $10 alliance for the arts 10091 McGregor Blvd.

Fort Myers 33919 239-939-2787 artinlee.org

Date: Through December 31 Event: Festival of Lights Time: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Cost: free Fisherman’s village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade 33950 941-639-8721 fishville.com

Date: December 16 Event: Christmas Boat Parade Time: 4 – 10 p.m.

Cost:

Date: December 23 Event:PuntaGorda Boat Parade Time: 6 p.m.

Cost: free

Date: Dec 16 Event: The Holiday of Chanukah Time: 7 p.m.

Price: Free

Four Freedom Park 4818 Tarpon Ct. Cape Coral 33904 239-573-3123 come-to-cape-coral.com

within Punta Gorda Isles off of Almar Dr. 33950

Fisherman Village 1200 W Retta Esplanade 33901 941-833-3381

puntagordaboatparade.com

www.charbadofcharlottecounty.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 • Southwest • 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 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 5

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Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 7

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Grand Memories E

By VICKy HAWKINS

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!

Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 8

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.

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.

Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 9

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admin@village-fish-market.com • www.village-fish-market.com Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 10

I

was watching the weather on TV today and the weatherman an n o u n ced th at 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

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.

$100* for Goods or Services *Certain Restrictions Apply

3 Nights on a Garden View* ($54 value) *Certain Restrictions Apply

Don’t wait. Vote by Jan. 15th!

Social Security Social Security ~ The Gift That Keeps Giving

A

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.

Poetry Corner A blank canvas on which to write Anything I feel that comes into sight The water, the sand, the shore where they meet The birds and the pelicans out for a treat The people are walking, one or two abreast Discussing the world, how to make it the best A bit of a breeze to keep us all cool From the heat of the sun, the sky’s precious jewel On the beach there’s no schedule of things to be done Just lying or swimming, playing and fun, The shoulders relax, the mind can let go The person responds and gets back in the flow

Life is a Beach

How did it get so darn complicated The 9 to 5 world is surely outdated No one should work more than part-time Above food and shelter, there’s no reason or rhyme The woods and the water are here everyday We’re all so serious, we forgot how to play Life is for living, don’t waste it away I’m at the beach and here I will stay

By Alan Fisher, Sarasota

Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 11

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Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 12

By Michael Wright ~ the Wright Stuff

I

remember a lot about my early years, probably because Dad was a professional photographer and my life was chronicled in pictures from my birth right on up until I was 12 or 13 years old. Then my parents went their separate ways.

My mother was the display manager at the JCPenney store in our little town. Together, she and my dad made the family Christmas cards by hand. There are early black and whites of me gazing out the window with the Christmas tree in the background, my face and eyes turned upward as if to see Mr. Claus making his descent.

They also created costumes for my brother, Richard, and me to wear in the photos. In one, we were shepherds turning our faces skyward to scan the heavens for the brightest star as we stood barefoot in the ‘snow’ -- actually a crispy white sheet draped across the bed.

Accompanying the photos were greetings written meticulously in colored pencil by my Dad, who’d been trained in architectural drawing. Christmas season also meant the annual drive to Cincinnati to see the animated figures in Shillito’s store windows. Shillito’s was Cincinnati’s first department store and no other store had such fabulous displays.

Christmas carols were abundant but a little confusing back then.

One of my favorites was Good King Winkle Sauce. I had no clue as to whom or what “winkle sauce” was since no one had ever served it during meals.

Shepherd boys Richard (left) and Mike Wright in story Then there’s the song where reindeer are assigned feline and canine attributes with the lyrics “Up on the housetop, reindeer paws…”

Really?

For many years, my wife’s email address was Ms.PossumBrown@ (whatever.com). When I asked her where she came up with that name she responded, “You know! It’s from that song: ‘In the meadow we can build a snowman; and pretend that he is Possum Brown…’”

Time passes by. The Shillito’s building has been converted to upscale apartments. Christmas carols have become earworms of prematurely-played background “muzak” made to get us into the buying mood.

And I never receive any handmade Christmas cards.

Bah! Humbug!

Michael B Wright is a house-husband, chauffer and gopher who leads an existence fraught with guilt from living in a 55+ community while still being an adolescent on-the-inside.

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

E

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.

R

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.

Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 13

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.

Theatre A Tuna Christmas

T

he Off Broadway Palm Theatre in Fort Myers presents A Tuna Christmas playing Nov. 16 – Dec. 25. Preceded by Greater Tuna, it’s the second in a series of comedic plays.

“

So funny it could make a raccoon laugh affectionately at Davy Crockett...It’s far too good for just Christmas. ~New York Post

”

The action takes place during the holiday season in Tuna, Texas, the thirdsmallest town in the Lone Star State where the Lion’s Club is too liberal and Patsy Cline never dies. Two actors portray 24 eccentric town characters trying to cope with seasonal traumas such as the disaster-prone little theatre production of A Christmas Carol, and a yard-decorating contest being sabotaged by a mysterious Christmas phantom.

The Off Broadway Palm is an intimate 100-seat theatre, located in the main lobby of Broadway Palm. Performances are Tuesday through Sunday evenings with selected matinees. Ticket prices range from $39 - $59 with group discounts available for parties of 20 or more. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling (239) 278-4422, by visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com or by stopping by the box office at 1380 Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers.

Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 14

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.

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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

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 Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 15

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When deciding which of the above options is best, it is extremely important for you to do proper due diligence. Ask questions about the various policy options, companies, and coverage limitations, and make sure that you understand what you’re purchasing. The future of your estate and welfare of you and your loved ones depends on it.

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Gibbs Law Office focuses on wills trusts & estate planning, including elder law, Medicaid and special needs planning, located at 8870 Daniels Parkway, Suite 101, Ft.Myers. To learn more, call (239) 415-7495 or visit www.GibbsLawFL.com.

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Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 16

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This is your opportunity to vote for the Best of the Best in your area.

It’s simple, complete your ballot and return the entire page to Lifestyles after 50 PO Box 638 Seffner, FL 33583 or you can complete the ballot at lifestylesafter50.com Your favorite business will be recognized and you could win prizes too!

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Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 17

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Recipe Corner

M

MULLED WINE

artha Dean of Ft. Myers serves mulled wine to her friends during her annual “Drink and Run” holiday event each year.

Guests stop by, eat some hors d’oeuvre, sip some of the concoction and leave with a small wrapped gift.

“This is my kind of drink,” she said.

“Who needs something complicated? Who wants to serve multiple types of liquor and mixers when this one fills the room with such a festive aroma? And it makes such an attractive centerpiece when surrounded with greenery, pine cones and candles.”

Mulled wine is a most festive holiday beverage. Created in the second century, it was made by the Romans who would heat wine to keep themselves warm in cold temperatures. As they conquered Europe throughout the next century, their love for mulled wine spread across the regions. This drink is still immensely popular in Europe because it is a sweet, special beverage that can be enjoyed anywhere--in full-fledged family gatherings, small get-togethers with friends, or even alone cuddled up with a good book.

There are non-alcoholic versions of mulled wine, but this is my favorite recipe because it is so easy and friends love it.

Mulled Wine By KATHY MEGYERI Ingredients: 1 orange, sliced and seeded 1 c. cranberries 1/2 c. sugar 2 c. water 1 tsp. ground cloves 2 tsp. cinnamon 1 bottle robust red wine Splash of brandy (optional) Rosemary for garnish Directions: • Combine orange, cranberries, sugar, water, cloves and cinnamon in a large stainless steel or enameled pot (not aluminum).

• Slowly bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer for 15 min.

• Reduce heat, add wine (and optional brandy) and slowly reheat but do not boil the alcohol out.

• Serve warm in glass mugs (optional) with rosemary as garnish.

You can also place the mixture in a slow cooker (on low) where it will make your home smell amazing. Any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days.

Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 19

Sudoku #281

SUDOKU Last Month’s Answers

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Nicole Brighina, North Port was last month’s winner!

The November answer was: Civil War, October 3, 1863 .

The more weeks you play the better chance you have to win!

Go to LifestylesAfter50.com and click on the Trivia Palooza icon to play each week. # 282

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WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES!

Mystery Prize!

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

Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 20

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Good luck! The first correct answers selected from the drawing on the 20th will win.

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We hope you enjoy our adult coloring page. Send us your results; we’d love to see them.

Take a photo and email the digital image along with name, address and phone number to Terri@lifestylesafter50.com on or before Dec 15.

The winning entry will be published and the winner will receive tickets to a performance by the Florida Orchestra.

Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 21

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE 46

47 ACROSS 1. Makes a lap 48 49 50 5. 51 Smelting refuse 9. Ring-shaped island 52 53 5414. Entanglement 55 56 57 15. Sound of contentment 58 59 60 61 62 16. Did a farmer’s job 17. Frankenstein’s aide 63 64 18. This: Sp. 65 19. Lindens and others 66 67 68 20. Food shop 23. One of two N. T. books 24. Masculine title 25. Montgomery’s place: abbr.

Send your answers for a drawing. correct answers 28. First Swears 32. 20th Caught selected from the drawing on the of the month will Pancreas or thyroid receive $20 cash! Send to: News34.

Connection USA, Inc., 35. Sleep activities, P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL for33583 short 37. Word with hog or map Insurance 38. Frost Personal Health I want information on: Elder Law / Financial Travel / Cruises & Fitness 39. Small flock of birds 40. Tactless Home Improvements Housing Options Recreation / Leisure 41. Suffixes for Reverse Mortgages Entertainment / Events Automobiles salt and hero 42. Residents’ endings Name 43. __ up; relaxed 44. Smaller of two 46. More offensive Address 48. WWII vessel 49. Time 51. Fall behind 52. Elation City State Zip 58. In the know 61. Sightseeing trip 62. One called “Terrible” Age Phone 63. Parker’s coin eater 64. Frolic 65. Longest river E-mail 66. One-dish meals 67. Numerals 68. Delight

FILL IN ANSWERS & WIN MONEY!

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Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest •

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14 December

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2017 •

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2 3 4 5 6 DOWN 1. Icy road danger 14 15 2. “Bus Stop” playwright 3.

Implement 17 18 4. Severity 20 5. Harpoons 21 6. One of the Seven Deadly 23 Sins 7. Mr. Johnson 29 8.28 Picnickers’ surface 30 9. Toward the rear 34 35 10. Having mixed feelings 38 39 11. Have debts 12. __ Majors 41 42 13. Joseph Smith’s religion, for 44 45 short 21. Skirted student 48 22. Wimp 49 50 25. Stir up 26. Pioneer52 27.59 Tallied up 58 60 61 28. 1960s skirt styles 63 29. Easiest to handle 64 30. Run 66 31. Three and four 67 33. Charging in court 34. Barbecue 36. City in Arizona 39. Plant tendrils 43. Rising late?

45. Conger fishermen 47. Drinks noisily 50. Houston slugger 52. Lager 53. In the near future 54. Show anger 55. Malicious 56. Bargain 57. Type of knife 58. Dawns, for short 59. Like a baby, often 60. Nourished oneself 8

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DOWN 1. Icy road danger 2. “Bus Stop” playwright 3. Implement eck the halls – it’s holiday time!

4. Severity With all the excitement that 5. Harpoons 6. One of the shopping, giftSeven giving and socializing Deadly Sins brings, many can feel overwhelmed 7. Mr. Johnson 8. Picnickers’ surface season. This can during the festive 9. Toward the rear lead to stress and unwanted weight 10. Having feelings gain, mixed which can be a big problem 11. Have debts for those with osteoarthritis. That’s 12. __ Majors 13. Josephexcess Smith’s body weight places because religion, for short unnecessary strain on weight-bearing 21. Skirted student joints, such as the spine, hips, knees, 22. Wimp 25. Stir and up feet. Over time, this added ankles 26. Pioneer strain becomes extra wear and tear on 27. Tallied up 28. joints.

1960s skirt styles the 29. Easiest to handle 30. The Run Arthritis Foundation notes 31. Three and four that eating healthily and staying 33. Charging in court active are crucial to losing weight, 34. Barbecue 36. City in Arizona alleviating osteoarthritic pain and 39. Plant tendrils limiting additional joint damage.

43. Rising late?

45. Conger fishermen However, there is no need to let 47. Drinks noisily seasonal stress and weight gain put 50. Houston slugger a52.damper on your holiday spirit.

Lager 53. In the consider near future these top five tips Instead, 54. Show anger for 55. helping Malicious you fully enjoy all your 56. Bargain celebrations these holidays, while 57. Type of knife fostering joint-health: 58. Dawns,good for short 59. 1.

LikeStay a baby,active often with family and 60. Nourished oneself

ACROSS 1. Makes a lap 5. Smelting refuse 9. Ring-shaped island 14. Entanglement 15. Sound of contentment 16. Did a farmer’s job 17. Frankenstein’s aide 18. This: Sp. 19. Lindens and others 20. Food shop 23. One of two N. T. books 24. Masculine title 25. Montgomery’s place: abbr.

28. Swears 32. Caught 34. Pancreas or thyroid 35. Sleep activities, for short 37. Word with hog or map 38. Frost 39. Small flock of birds 40. Tactless 41. Suffixes for salt and hero 42. Residents’ endings 43. __ up; relaxed 44. Smaller of two 46. More offensive 48. WWII vessel 49. Time 51. Fall behind 52. Elation 58. In the know 61. Sightseeing trip 62. One called “Terrible” 63. Parker’s coin eater 64. Frolic 65. Longest river 66. One-dish meals 67. Numerals 68. Delight

Enter To Win!

1

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

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friends – many holiday gatherings 9 10lounging 11 12 13 with endless involve 16 amounts of delicious food. Skip seconds and encourage your group 19 to walk together after a meal, to get 22 moving, burn calories and bond with 24 loved ones. 25 26 27 32 2. Get 33 plenty of sleep – sleep 36deprived 37 individuals tend to be hungrier,40 consume more calories and get less physical activity, all of which43 contribute to weight gain.

47 Arthritis Foundation encourages The those with osteoarthritis to maintain 51 a r e g u l a r 55s l e56e p 57s c h e d u l e , a n d 54 incorporate relaxing activities like taking a62warm bath, listening to soothing 65music or playing an audio book, into68 their evening routines.

3. Manage stress levels – in response to stress, the body releases 8

the hormone, cortisol, which has also been linked to increasing food intake.

If the holidays are causing you stress, fend it off with exercise, meditation, yoga or deep breathing.

4. Eat mindfully – choose a smaller plate for portion control.

Be fully present by eating slowly and chewing food thoroughly before swallowing to help increase satisfaction and avoid overeating.

Simple substitutes, such as opting for sparkling water over sugary sodas or nutritious snacks over sweet treats, can help minimize your intake of empty calories. Bringing a healthy dish to a holiday gathering also gives you a little control over what you eat while celebrating, as well as something to share with others.

5. Set yourself limits – outline and stick to healthy diet and exercise goals these holidays. If you do slipup occasionally, that’s OK. Just move forward and make a healthier choice the next time.

Although your busy holiday schedule may be in full swing, it is essential that preparation and social gatherings are not taking precedence over the needs of your body. Taking proactive steps for your joint health will help you make the most of the holiday season, while keeping your body happy and healthy.

If you experience joint pain over the holidays, speak with an orthopedic specialist to learn about the best treatment options available for you. With offices in Fort Myers, Cape Coral and Lehigh Acres, Athletic Orthopedic and Reconstructive Center (AORC) is devoted to providing the highest level of quality care and treatment of the musculoskeletal system, which includes the bones, joints, ligaments, muscles and nerves. AORC specializes in total joint replacement, fracture care, sports medicine, hand surgery, neurology, podiatry and general orthopedics. For more information, call 239-936-6778 or visit www.bone-fix.com.

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 21 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.

4746 - iso LovinG FRiEnDsHiP. 79 yy, W, HWP, R, C, SOH, NS, ND, NDrg. Happy, healthy, secure, easy going, dancing, music, conversation, reading. ISO FF gentleman with like interests, to love me, share are years. Send phone number.

Ellenton Area.

4737 - GoLDEn GAL - no GoLD. Mild disability. ISO 62 plus church going Gentleman. Friendship and Possible future. NS, NDrg. Please be respectful. No jail birds. 34287 area. Northport.

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SOH, funny, fun, loving, caring, romantic.

I like to do most things within reason.

Recent photo and phone number please.

Punta Gorda.

4691 - FoRmER CEnTRAL iLLinois. W, WW, 5’5”, late 70’s, sports fan, attractive yes, SOH, NS, SD, a bit independent, pay my way when I can. Seeking friendship with widower, early 80’s. Reply to meet for coffee. It’s just coffee!! S. Ft. Myers 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.

4662 - inTEREsTED in LAsTinG LovE. Intelligent, beautiful, Christian lady. Likes faithful, marriage minded, dependable Christian gentleman. 39-77 to love me forever. Please write, send recent photo.

4679 - sWF. ATTRACTivE LADy. Active.

Loves life. Looking for SWM who loves animals, can dance and is C, NS, SD, NO DRUGS, HWP. 4678 - WF, R-HEALTHCARE. Petite, sandy blonde, attractive, European background.

NS, ND, NDrg, cook and eat healthy, no baggage, many interests. Enjoy good conversation, music, theatre, quiet times.

ISO kind, gentle soul with a love of laughter.

mEn sEEKinG WomEn 4763 - sinGLE, mALE, WHiTE, CHRisTiAn. 78, ISO SOH, Non-smoker, light drinker, LTR, WGT proportional. TLC LOTS AND LOTS!! Venice 4756 - mAn, 72YY, 5’5”, 145, seeking a non smoker, 65+ for caring, romantic, quiet times. Kind, gentle, church, most sports.

Fort Myers, Cape Coral. Please send photo & 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.

4740 - WiDoWED GEnTLEmAn in Venice looking for a lady around 80 to enjoy the “golden years”. I am a clean cut, honest, stable and loving gentleman. Please send your phone number. I’ll call you.

4715 - sEEKinG LovE & mARRiAGE. 72 yR, sWm, ns, nD, disease and drug free. Easy & out going. Easy to please.

Looking for love & marriage. Only sincere need reply. No game players, druggies or convicts. Age & looks unimportant. Photo, phone please.

4659 - WDm, active, healthy, retired educator seeks tall, “fit” female companionship to perk up his days with dancing, dining, theatre, walking/cycling, day trips, quiet family type games, nonsmoker. Clearwater Area 4693 - WWm, iso, LTR, 77 yy. n/s, n/D, disease & drug free. Seeking a Lady for a

lasting, loving, relationship. Age, looks, race no barrier. Will answer all with phone & photo. Thank you sincerely.

4696 - mAn, 73, likes old country songs, plants, cats, Christian books, bicycleriding, meeting at a fast-food place.

Seeking woman, 55-73, fairly tall, 5’7” 5’9”, for a beer, burger and conversation.

NS, SD, NDrg. Please include postal and email addresses for corresponding. Port Charlotte.

4699 - nEW AT THis. DWm, 55yo, sm, sD, nDrg. I like most sports. Enjoy life one day at a time. ISO, AHWF for friendship, companionship, hanging out and possibly more. Casual lady answer with phone number. Bonita Springs.

4700 - FUn-LovinG, ACTivE, slim. NS, W, ND, FF. Like sports, cats, dogs, classical dancing. ISO beautiful lady, SOH. Like music, loves God. Send photo and phone number.

4716 - sWm, 58, 5”8”, 160., I’m attractive, active, honest and sincere. Like outdoor activities plus music, theatre, dancing, dining out and travel. You are attractive, SWF, 40-50s, Let’s talk, laugh, begin a friendship. North Port area.

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.

Seniors Getting Together

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MAIL TO: ATTN. / SENIORS GETTING TOGETHER NEWS CONNECTION, USA, INC. • PO BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583 Lifestyles After 50 • Southwest • December 2017 • page 23

a WORLD

CLASS

John Kagan, M.D.

Michael Jugan, D.O.

ATHLETIC ORTHOPEDIC

Pedro Monserrate, M.D.

Peter Curcione, D.O.

David Sudderth, M.D.

Scott Thompson, M.D.

WALIMIRE

THOMPSON

SUDDERTH

CURCIONE

MONSERRATE

KAGAN

JUGAN

ORTHOPEDIC ENTER C Peter Walimire, D.P.M.

RECONSTRUCTIVE CENTER

offers a full spectrum of sports medicine and reconstructive orthopedic care including the surgical and non-surgical treatment of sports and work-related injuries and orthopedic conditions caused by age, heredity and disease.

AND

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Arthritis Care and Surgery Arthroscopy Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Fracture Care

• • •

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• • • •

Neurology Podiatry Spine Care Sports Injuries

Team physicians for the Everblades, Miracle baseball, Minnesota Twins and several local high school football teams.

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www.bone-fix.com

3210 Cleveland Ave., Suite 100 Fort Myers, FL 33901

2721 Del Prado Blvd., Suite 260 Cape Coral, FL 33904

3400 Lee Blvd., Suite 105 Lehigh Acres, FL 33971

239-936-6778

239-574-0011

239-368-8277