​​by Berkley Badger
You hear the headlines….........
​But what does this actually mean to your financial future and investment results?
Blame Covid or profligate Washington spenders or our country’s loss of its moral compass… Regardless, our Federal Reserve has been doing the 
“unthinkable” for nearly a decade.
History tells us that any country living beyond its means needs to fund that excess spending by selling bonds (Government IOUs). But the current policy of our Central Bank and others have stretched “bad policy” to “deplorable policy.”
For when there are not enough willing global and domestic buyers of Uncle Sam’s IOUs, the Federal Reserve has filled the shortfall – to the present tune of $1.5 trillion per year.
Where do they get the money to buy all the debt?  They literally create the fiat currency by declaration – grossly expanding money supply faster than Organic GDP (economic growth).  This is untenable and never ends well…!!!
Higher inflation with higher interest rates find blistering bond-holders and truncating stock market valuations ensuing… ergo, tough-sledding for the markets, which have generally risen nicely over the past few decades.
Wise investors shift their risk onto others… i.e., instead of buying bonds directly, buy a fixed annuity.  The money you deposit shall still principally go toward high-quality Corporate-bond purchases, but the annuity company takes the risk while you get interest returns rivaling the banks!
The same technique can be implemented to shift stock market risk to an annuity company as well… where one enjoys a percentage of the market gains but suffers no loss in years where the market actually declines.
Don’t be a hero in the face of rising interest rates, especially during a sea-change where rates have been declining while margin debt (as well as household debt) has increased dramatically.
Major debt (the result of stock investors borrowing money using the securities as collateral) is at record levels – closing in on $1 trillion.  This is called “margin” debt.
If the market declines enough to trigger margin “calls,” more securities shall hit the market to pay for the margin calls.  Any willing buyers will demand cheaper prices – pushing the market even lower – triggering fearful responses from others who remember the 1987, 1999, 2008, and 2009 crashes!
Where the stock market actually peaked in 2007, it would be another 4 ½ years (to get through the crash) before prices would fully recover. “Yeah, but it always recovers!”  While this would be true… it all comes down to how much time you’re willing to wait.
If we were slurping noodles and sucking down sake in Tokyo right now, we would still be lamenting the fact that the Japanese (known for their high savings rate) stock market is only 80% of where it peaked “32 years ago”!  Will it ever regain its 1989 high?  Maybe in another 18 years or so – meaning one would have to wait half-a-century to get back to even.
Most people blindly risk what becomes ever more difficult (by virtue of age) to recover.  
Be wise. Take some chips off the table – opting for higher-yielding guaranteed-deposit accounts with liquidity, which normally beats bank CDs.  We can show you how. 
Berkley Badger, host emeritus of America’s longest running financial broadcast, has been assisting investors for over four decades. His trusted advice has benefited scores of Floridians to re-align their portfolios into safer alternatives.  Call him today @ 727-796-3339.

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by Jean Mlincek

Ah, Christmas!  What memorable stories it has inspired, from Charles Dickens’ reformation of grouchy Ebenezer Scrooge in “A Christmas Carol” to Dr. Seuss’ zany and wild-eyed Grinch who tried to steal the joy of this celebrated holiday from the inhabitants of Whoville.
 Although these stories have entertained us for decades, the biblical account of Jesus’ birth remains the greatest story ever told. Every December, local churches recruit wannabe wise men and shepherds and search their youth groups for a demure yet beautiful Mary and, of course, someone always seems to lend the stiffest baby doll on the planet to debut as the infant Jesus.  Several years ago, my church added “live” sheep - little tots dressed in wooly costumes - to its amateur cast. The main thing I remember about the re-enactment of Jesus’ birth at the time of that addition was the one little sheep who went astray.
At first, four-year-old Cindy  followed the script like a sweet little lamb should, tailing a deacon-turned-shepherd down the church aisle to the manger scene, where Mary and Joseph stood like cardboard cut-outs, never moving or blinking once during the entire 12-song cantata. I am sure the real Mary looked adoringly upon her God-in-the-flesh Son, but I understood why our Mary may have found it difficult to muster even a faint smile for what seemed to be a two-by-four wrapped in swaddling clothes.  
 Baby lamb Cindy was adorable in her faux fleece and like most little kids, she knew she was a hit in her oversized wooly costume with floppy ears. Although Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus were in the spotlight, the three lambs that “grazed” to their left were equally captivating. At mid-point, however, baby lamb Cindy had obviously had enough of being sidelined, and wandered from the flock, down the stage stairs, and stood center aisle, scrutinizing the spectacle before her as if she were the director. Then she turned and began weaving in and out of the pews. The congregation couldn’t help but be amused by this errant lambkin and found it difficult to focus on the Holy Family with such an animated and adorable sheep on the loose.
 After sitting briefly with her grand-mother, Cindy was on the move again.   At first, it looked as if the little lamb was going to re-join her flock, but, no, she headed straight for the stoic Mary and her cuddled infant. While the reserved cast looked on speechless and immobile, little sheep Cindy got right in Jesus’ face . . . and pressed her nose against his!   
 At first, this intimate gesture seemed comical, if not profane, but in that unscripted moment, an epiphany of Christmas truths became evident.  This was God and humanity connecting.  This was joy unspeakable.  This was the revelation of child-like faith in full measure.  This was a pre-dawn meeting of Shepherd and sheep.   This was spontaneous worship versus liturgy.  Even the stoic Mary broke into a Mona Lisa half smile.  There was a new energy in the cast, the choir, the audience.
 It was, and remains to this day, the best Christmas play I have ever witnessed - all thanks to Cindy, the adorable, unpredictable, stray sheep.
Jean Mlincek is a freelance writer who resides in St. Petersburg, Fla.

Bascom’s Meat Loaf
 
1 pound ground beef
½ cup chopped onion
1 cup panko bread crumb
½ cup milk
1 egg beaten
2 tbs ketchup
1 tbs Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dry parsley
¾ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
 
Ketchup glaze
 
¼ cup ketchup
2 tbs brown sugar
1 tbs red wine vinegar
 
Gently incorporate all ingredients
Press into small bread loaf pan
Spread the ketchup glaze on top and bake for 60 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Allow time for the loaf to set after baking.
Serve with your favorite sides and sauce.  Enjoy!
Chef Tony Bonanno
​Looking forward to exceeding your Guest’s expectations
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By Mary Gynn - Diabetes Educator ​
Let me start with the reminder that Diabetes affects 25.8 million people. Those diagnosed are 18.8 million people and undiagnosed total 7.0 mil-lion people. Unfortunately, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are affecting the younger generation, as well, the numbers being a staggering 215,000. (Center for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlantic, GA. www,cdc.com). Prediabetes and diabetes are now officially listed as an epidemic in the US. And, the numbers are growing.
An epidemic? This is 2018. Ironically, diabetes was first described in an Egyptian manuscript from 1500 BC and the first cases were described by Indian physicians in 400-500 AD identified as Type 1 and Type 2. Then in 1776, a Dr. Matthew Dobson con-firmed an excess of a kind of sugar in the urine. (Dobson,M. 1776, Medical Observations and Inquiries 5:298-3Is it the 10). And in 1889, it was found that dogs whose pancreas was removed developed all the signs and symptoms of diabetes.
So, considering these very early discoveries, why are we dealing today with Diabetes now an epidemic? Shouldn't the disease have been either controlled or eliminated all these years later?
Does "It", the epidemic, have some-thing to do with the following questions? I ask:
• Is it lack of community health and diabetes education?
• Is it the abundance available and consumption of processed foods?
• Is it lack of Americans knowing the existence of a gene somewhere in their ancestry that they may have inherited predisposing them to diabetes? Do most Americans have any idea of what a genetic inheritance (aka genome sequence) is? And all the variety of genes we all have predisposing us to health issues?
• Is it because the majority of Americans are addicted to sugar and sugar is present in practically all our food? And, why is sugar in all of our food?
• Is it the growing numbers of people who don't want to adapt a healthy life-style either early on or when diagnosed with a blood test they have prediabetes?
• Is it because people aren't aware of their predisposition to the disease and have no knowledge of the metabolic syndrome?
• Is it because Americans who if they do have some pre-diabetes symptoms just want a quick-fix pill to avoid facing reality and say nothing to or deny any symptoms to their physician?
• Is it due to the insidious development of overweight and/or the obesity epidemic?
• Is it in anyway connected to the in-activity or a "sitting" population in to-day's America?
• Is it connected to stress in our lives in today's stressful world that we do nothing about?
• Is it the multitude of pills or insulin pre-diabetics and diabetics ingest and inject and think they are the "cure"?
• Is it the lack of diabetics not knowing how to self-manage their own dis-ease resulting in permanent sugar control?
• Is it pre-diabetics and diabetics have no desire to self-manage or fearful of taking control of their disease?
In my years of being a registered nurse and diabetes educator, I could go on and on identifying the multitude of questions. They help me arrange my diabetes self-management education programs and discuss your answers to the above questions. Your answers assist my effort to understanding why we now have a diabetes epidemic.
Mary Gynn, RN, MSN/MS, MPH, CDE


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​​When I Die, I Wanna Bounce
​My Last Check!
by Berkley C. Badger


Many of my readers and clients share with me the fact that: They either have no family, never hear from family, or, that their kids are financially better off than they are.
While they may have a few charities which they could name as ultimate beneficiaries, most are more concerned about not running out of funds before they run outta breath.
Annuities can offer the perfect solution to solving many financial conundrums, especially where an individual, quite frankly, doesn't care if they "bounce their last check!"
Of course they are more fiscally responsible than that, but they may not feel compelled to leave one penny to anyone.
A Lifetime Annuity can work very nicely. It provides income which you can never outlive, even if you have the genes of Moses. In short, your income doesn't stop until you stop, but provides dependable cash-flow for as long as you need it.


Can you make the cash-flow increase over time?
Some of my clients can't seem to spend all of their monthly annuity payments, so they save up to "plant another tree." By adding another Lifetime Money Tree periodically, it may help to assure the receiver of the payments a defense against the inflationary effects on healthcare costs; especially in our latter years when one may want to stay in their own home, or may be required to seek resident care in a long-term care facility. These costs can run $7,000 to $15,000 per month!
Anecdotally speaking, this plan works beautifully. Just ask my 95-year-old client in Bradenton getting over $11,000 per month; or, my husband and wife couple in Clearwater getting over $8,000 per month; or, others who have been wise enough to start assembling such annuities in their 60's.
While it is said "One can never be too skinny-or too rich," the pragmatist is most thankful that he cannot outlive his income.
Cheers to your good health.


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by Berkley C. Badger


Many of my readers and clients share with me the fact that: They either have no family, never hear from family, or, that their kids are financially better off than they are.
While they may have a few charities which they could name as ultimate beneficiaries, most are more concerned about not running out of funds before they run outta breath.
Annuities can offer the perfect solution to solving many financial conundrums, especially where an individual, quite frankly, doesn't care if they "bounce their last check!"
Of course they are more fiscally responsible than that, but they may not feel compelled to leave one penny to anyone.
A Lifetime Annuity can work very nicely. It provides income which you can never outlive, even if you have the genes of Moses. In short, your income doesn't stop until you stop, but provides dependable cash-flow for as long as you need it.


Can you make the cash-flow increase over time?
Some of my clients can't seem to spend all of their monthly annuity payments, so they save up to "plant another tree." By adding another Lifetime Money Tree periodically, it may help to assure the receiver of the payments a defense against the inflationary effects on healthcare costs; especially in our latter years when one may want to stay in their own home, or may be required to seek resident care in a long-term care facility. These costs can run $7,000 to $15,000 per month!
Anecdotally speaking, this plan works beautifully. Just ask my 95-year-old client in Bradenton getting over $11,000 per month; or, my husband and wife couple in Clearwater getting over $8,000 per month; or, others who have been wise enough to start assembling such annuities in their 60's.
While it is said "One can never be too skinny-or too rich," the pragmatist is most thankful that he cannot outlive his income.
Cheers to your good health.


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By Carolyn Shockey
This is the month traditionally set aside to give thanks, but think how different life would be if giving thanks was a daily practice. Why does it seem so much easier to focus on all the negativity? Gratitude is an attitude and an acceptance; that is just as easy to do, but we need to think in a more positive way for it to work. Certainly, life is not easy. No matter who we are, we get our share of heartbreak and bad luck. Often, they are unavoidable. Yet if we look at those situations as learning or self-improvement lessons and pay attention, we may be able to see something positive as we look back. That has been the case with the black clouds in my life. I’ve been able to see the good that came from those experiences, although I couldn’t see it at the time. I am now more able to see my disasters as experiences lead-ing to good somewhere down the line. It is much easier to except the downs knowing that this too shall pass, and it always does. 
 Being grateful multiplies. The more we are grateful, the more we have to be thankful for. That I can still put my feet on the floor in the morning, even 


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As the TV matriarch of the Cunningham clan in the sitcom “Happy Days,” Marion Ross appeared in over 250 episodes during the hit series 11-season run from 1974 to 1984. But one episode has special significance for the actress this time of year.
In ‘The First Thanksgiving,’ broadcast two days before the November holiday 40 years ago this year, Ross’s character (also named Marion) leads the cast in a departure from the show’s usual Milwaukee-based set-ting. She narrates a flashback story set in the Plymouth Colony with the cast doubling as historical characters to remind her family that sharing and giving thanks are the traditions be-hind the annual festivities.
  “Tom (Bosley) and I were dressed up as pilgrims and I had on a lovely outfit with a white bonnet,” recalled Ross from her home in Woodland Hills, California. “Then Fonzie (Hen-ry Winkler) comes in wearing traditional clothes, but with his leather jacket over them!”
  It was classic ‘Happy Days’ humor: Fonzie on a wooden motorbike; later, when he invites Indians into the pilgrims’ compound, he’s pun-shed and restrained in the stocks but breaks free with a characteristic Fonzie move (“He broke the stock – hey, a first stockbroker!” quips Anson Williams’ Potsie character).
  Ross’s own family roots trace back to Minnesota, where she remembers Thanksgivings as being “rather brisk.”
  “I was a middle child and the rambunctious one,” she recalled. “I would run out and shovel the snow off the walkway.” 
  Thanksgiving included a large ex-tended family seated at tables stretching into the living room. “I remember by the time I was about ten having the traditional meal of turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pies, and also rutaba-gas. Guests would say ‘Rutabagas? We feed those to the pigs!’ But we liked them mashed with salt and pepper.”
  Ross says it was more than just the harsh Minnesota climate that toughened her for a career in the brutal entertainment business. “I was raised not only with that ‘You can do anything’ attitude, but also “You must do it.’ So I was always determined to get into acting.”
  Marion was 16 when the family headed west to settle in San Diego.
  Now a seasoned Californian, family Thanksgiving traditions include playing bocce ball with a few friends. And in the spirit of the season, the family often invites a guest who might otherwise be alone – somewhat akin to the “Happy Days” Thanksgiving episode where Fonzie convinces the pilgrims to welcome the local Indians.
  “In the end, they join our family for the meal,” explained Ross, who turned 90 in October, and published her autobiography “My Days: Happy and Otherwise” in March.
  The pilgrim episode concludes with the cast returning to then present-day Milwaukee. Marion serves the meal to her attentive family, adding: “This is a day to count your blessings – everyone has something to be thankful for.”

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                Over 70 million Baby Boomers grew up playing board games and watching game shows together—and they still love doing both.
A new pop culture trivia game is taking Boomers on a nostalgic road trip back to the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s. Designed to be played by two teams, Boom Again features thousands of questions drawing upon Boomer’s memories of advertising slogans and jingles, politics and social movements, movies, music, television, and more. \
Groups of Baby Boomers are laughing their way through memories on a wide variety of their experiences: from The Twist to Disco; American Bandstand to Soul Train; Doris Day all the way to Janis Joplin, and on to Steve Martin; Hula Hoops to The Pill; and poodle skirts to mini-skirts. And they are singing their way through all the music of their youth, too.
This game is clearly not an S.A.T. test with questions like:
• Name three of the most popular episodes of “I Love Lucy.”
• Name the original main courses from Swanson’s TV Dinners.
• What did Silly Putty have to do with the Sunday comic strips?
The wide array of material is organized into easily remembered categories: 
Things We Heard—Music, jingles, famous speeches, lyrics, catchphrases 
Things We Saw—TV shows, movies, commercials, magazines, sporting events 
Things We Learned in School—The “3 R’s,” clubs, dances, school yard games 
In The News—Politics, sports, world events, Sunday comics, murder, war 
Stuff We Learned On the Street—Toys, Fashion, Cars, Social Movements, Dances, etc.
A Box Full of Memories
The game comes packaged in a “cigar box” familiar to Baby Boomers who stashed their stuff in those as kids. It has two boxes of cards with 2,244 questions, and Boomer era tokens including a Metal Skate Key, a “Students For Kennedy” Button, a center insert for a 45-RPM Record, and more. 
There’s even a “Boomers’ Little Helper” magnifier in case someone forgets their readers. 
An Antidote to Pandemic Isolation
Apparently nothing can keep a social Baby Boomer from hanging out with their friends. Party games have always brought people together. Now, even when friends and families haven’t been together in person, they have been playing Boom Again together on Zoom. It’s become known as a Boom Zoom!

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While your dog enjoys the irresistible flavor and aroma of pumpkin flavored treats,
​you can make delicious pumpkin cookies for yourself.
(NAPSI)—Now is the time for all things pumpkin: From pumpkin spice lattes and candles to pumpkin patches and carving, there’s something pumpkin for everyone—including your four-legged friends. Now you can share your love of pumpkin with your pooch. Just like us, dogs go crazy over the taste of pumpkin,” says Ronna Krahl, Vice President of Marketing—Companion Pet, Manna Pro Products, maker of Fruitables pet treats. “But what many people don’t realize is that there are also a number of health benefits that come along with the tasty treat.” 
The Power of Pumpkin
Pumpkin isn’t just a delicious treat. When fresh, it can be an excellent food for supporting digestive health and weight loss. Pumpkins are 90 percent water, which makes them naturally low-calorie. They’re also rich in soluble and insoluble fiber, which helps promote satiety. The high fiber content coupled with the low calorie content makes pumpkin a terrific food to help your dog cut calories while feeling full. 
Why is this so important? Well, according to the Association of Pet Obesity Prevention, 56% of dogs are overweight or obese. Since obesity leads to a decreased quality of life for pets, finding something as effective at supporting weight-loss as pumpkin can have exciting implications. 
To that end, Fruitables has canned pumpkin digestive and weight-loss supplements that can help support your pet’s digestive issues or weight-loss journey. The supplements feature fresh pumpkin and vitamins in an easy-to-feed format. Introducing your pets to the power of pumpkin can help them live their best lives. 
Share the Love of Pumpkin 
With the many benefits associated with feeding pumpkin, you can feel good about giving it to your dog. In fact, pumpkin is so beneficial for dogs that it’s the first ingredient in 18 Fruitables pet products, including canned pumpkin supplements and a variety of dog treats. 
“Our unique flavor combinations aren’t just delicious for your dog, but for you and your family too,” adds Krahl. “You can experience the same bold flavors with the Pumpkin Spice Lofthouse-Style Cookies with Yogurt Frosting recipe inspired by the classic Fruitables Greek Vanilla ­Yogurt baked treats.”
Pumpkin Spice Lofthouse-Style Cookies with Yogurt Frosting
Recipe by Stacie Billis
Makes 2 dozen cookies
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon cornstarch 
1¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 egg, room temperature
1 cup unsweetened canned pumpkin puree
1 tablespoon sour cream
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
1 cup (16 tablespoons) unsalted butter, room temperature
⅓ cup plain Greek-style yogurt, room temperature
1 tablespoon milk
Scant 1½ cups confectioners sugar, plus more to taste as desired
 
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside. Add butter and sugar to bowl of stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment. Cream until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add egg and mix for another minute. Add pumpkin, sour cream, vanilla and almond extracts. Mix until well combined. 
 
Detach the bowl from the mixer. Using a silicone spatula, fold the dough once or twice so all ingredients are well combined and no flour streaks remain. Refrigerate dough for one hour up to overnight. 
 
Prepare the frosting: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, combine butter, yogurt, milk, and confectioners sugar. Beat until creamy and soft. Refrigerate. 
 
Preheat oven to 350°. Line cookie sheet with parchment. Set it next to work area dusted with flour. Remove chilled cookie dough from refrigerator. With a medium (1½ tablespoon) scoop, divide dough into 24 even portions, rolling each in flour to keep it from sticking. Dust off excess flour. Place as many cookie dough balls on cookie sheet, about 2½ inches apart. 
 
Flour the bottom of a glass and press each ball flat, to about ¾” thickness. Bake for 12 minutes. Let cookies rest on cookie sheet 2 minutes. Transfer to wire rack to cool. Repeat with remaining cookie dough balls. Remove frosting from refrigerator about 10-15 minutes before using. 
 
Once cookies have cooled completely, frost each and cover with sprinkles. Serve immediately or store, with wax paper between each cookie, in an airtight container at
​room temperature for up to 3 days. 
For more facts, tips and recipes, visit www.fruitablespet.com/blog and @fruitablespettreats.
 
 "“Dogs go crazy over the taste of pumpkin,” says Ronna Krahl, Manna Pro Products, maker of Fruitables pet treats. “But what many people don’t realize is that there are also a number of health benefits that come along with the tasty treat.”https://bit.ly/3ofH9Up"
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Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. While medications can help slow the decline of memory, more research is needed to combat this debilitating condition. 
 “Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging, though the majority of people with Alzheimer’s are 65 and older,” explained Kelli K. Maw, MD, MPH, principal investigator at Meridien Research in Brooksville, Florida. “Although current Alzheimer’s treatments cannot stop Alzheimer’s from progressing, they may temporarily slow the worsening of dementia symptoms and improve quality of life for those with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.”

Researchers are working to uncover as many aspects of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias as possible. Studies conducted at research sites like Meridien Research have played a key role in this progress.  the “Many of research studies we have open in our clinic are focused on memory loss, mild cognitive impairment and 
Alzheimer’s disease,” Dr. Maw said. “Florida is an ideal place to find participants for our studies because of the large senior population.”
By participating in an Alzheimer’s disease research study or clinical trial, people may:
• Receive access to investigational medications that are only available in clinical studies
• Receive study-related medical care from physicians with specific experience in Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss
• Contribute to medical research: clinical studies help unlock new answers about Alzheimer’s disease and are an essential part of finding new treatments
​ New investigational medications (including new investigational medications for Alzheimer’s disease) must successfully complete a three-phase process in clinical trials before being approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They must perform well enough in each phase to be allowed to progress on to the next one. 
Research participants at Meridien Research undergo careful evaluation by board certified study physicians and are closely followed by the medical staff.  There is no cost to participate and health insurance is not required. 
 “Before anyone can enroll in a clinical research study, they must be screened to be sure they are right for the study and that the study is right for them,” ex-plained Angela Brooke, site director for Meridien Research. “We are fortunate to have multiple Alzheimer’s disease studies going on simultaneously, so there is a good chance seniors living with the memory impairment will qualify for one!”
 By specializing in innovative Alzheimer’s and dementia studies, Meridien Research’s  Brooksville location offers complimentary memory screenings and evaluations, providing patients with knowledge about their personal memory health and the platform to talk with their Primary Care Providers about additional evaluations. 
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We all witnessed some interesting “pandemic pickups-to-perk-up”—those hobbies and activities to ease the quarantine’s monotony and isolation. From sourdough starters and macrame to calligraphy, watercolors and ukuleles, people kept themselves occupied. 
One of the most popular pandemic pastimes was gardening. For some enthusiasts, this was their first time gardening; for others, it was a return to a beloved pastime that had gotten lost in the busy shuffle of life. 

Garden enthusiasts swamped the online seed catalogs, creating an unexpected spike in demand for seeds. For example, Missouri-based Baker Creek Seeds saw a five- to six-time increase in demand. The company had to bring in human help to stock the seed bags when its seed packaging machines couldn’t keep pace with demand. 
Those without the luxury of an outdoor garden also partook in the plant hobby. In fact, the Instagram trend for ‘Indoor Garden’ grew 52% between 2019 and 2020. 
It’s not surprising taking care of plants topped the charts in terms of pandemic hobbies. Scientists have long recognized the therapeutic effects of growing food, plants and flowers—otherwise known as horticultural or plant therapy. Nutrition and food policy expert 
“When we grow food and flowers, we are engaging with the natural world at a pace that provides a welcome antidote to the stresses of modern life.”  
Such plant therapy can be a welcome antidote for your loved one, too. Gardening offers ongoing opportunities for mental, physical and social engagement for older adults in particular. 

Peas and quiet: The therapeutic benefits of gardening on health and well-being 
The act of caring for plants and flowers improves physical, emotional, social and spiritual well-being, offering several important benefits:  


Improves physical strength and flexibility Gardening is a holistic exercise solution. The act of taking care of plants incorporates aerobic exercise, strengthens muscles and improves flexibility. One study found that gardening alone can help older adults not only meet but surpass the CDC’s recommendation of at least 30 minutes of physical activity on a majority of days in a week. 
Increases the quality of life in those with memory-related impairmentsFor seniors with memory-related impairments, research indicates regular time in a garden decreases agitation and improves mood. Time spent around plants also tends to reduce the need for those medications taken on an as-needed basis. 
Improves mental health Gardening and caring for plants can serve as a malleable coping strategy for stressful life experiences. Its wide spectrum of physical and mental demands allows the gardener to adjust the hobby to their fluctuating needs—ensuring this beneficial hobby “meets” the gardener where they are on that particular day. One study showed that older adults who gardened for exercise felt less stressed than those who engaged in indoor exercise and walking.
Enhances social health and well-beingResearch indicates that collaborative gardening can increase self-esteem and self-confidence, while also keeping cognitive, literacy and numerical skills fresh. Gardening also increases overall well-being and helps develop a sense of independence in the senior. 



Your good seed for the day: How to make gardening accessible to your loved one If you want to help your loved one explore the benefits of gardening, keep in mind some accessibility and safety tips to adjust the hobby for the senior’s ability:
Ensure hanging baskets are accessible – Hanging baskets can be difficult to reach, and ladders are dangerous for older adults due to challenges with balance. To solve this dilemma, simply rig the hanging baskets onto pulley systems to allow your senior gardener to lower the basket to an accessible, ergonomic and safe level where they can work with ease. 
Install easy-open gates and faucets – Arthritis can make turning faucets and opening gates painful and difficult for seniors. To remove this barrier, replace traditional knobs with levers on gates and faucets, making them more accessible. 





SPONSORED BY ADVERTISING PARTNERSponsored VideoWatch to learn moreSEE MOREInvest in ergonomic tools – Ergonomic gardening tools will make the act of caring for plants more comfortable for your loved one. Pruners with foam, gel or easy-grip handles are gentler on arthritic joints and help prevent hand fatigue. When searching for the right pruners, select a grip that matches the size of your loved one’s hand, and make sure the pruners have a locking mechanism to keep the blades closed when not in use. (It’s best if the lock is nearer to the blades than the grip. This prevents accidental engagement of the safety lock.) 
Also, weeder tools are exceptionally useful to loosen stubborn roots. However, different weeder tools are appropriate for various conditions, so do your research before heading to the hardware store. For example, the bi-directional blades on the Hula Hoe often eliminate the need to lift the hoe. 
Plant in raised beds, large pots and planters – Not only are raised beds optimal for outdoor gardens, they’re also easier for seniors to navigate. Large pots and planters also make great substitutes for ground-level planting. Most plants and flowers will grow just as beautifully in a large pot or planter as they would in the ground itself. 
Build drip irrigation systems – Keeping plants and gardens watered is a hefty task at any age. Consider installing a drip irrigation system in the garden and even the flower pots to relieve your loved one of this difficult task. 
Eat, drink and be rosemaryGardening or caring for plants and flowers is a joy at any age, but it’s particularly rewarding to seniors, as it provides them with a routine, a sense of purpose, and a chance for social engagement. If your loved one is new to gardening or plant-keeping, our advice is to start simple and grow from there. The sky’s the limit.

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Fitness After 40...The weight room is callingBy Kate Kane-Joyce
Today's 40 year-plus generations don't feel like they should be slowing down. But even though the mind is willing, the flesh, inevitably, will start to weaken, after a time. While science and infomercials are trying to create (bottle, package and sell you) the Fountain of Youth, you already posses the ability to combat the loss of muscle and strength that can come with age.
Lifting weights becomes increasingly more important after 40 because the stress on the body (when exercises are performed properly) yields positive results.

1. Microscopic tear and repair = stronger muscle. When you feel mild soreness the day after a weightlifting workout, you have torn that muscle on the cellular level. This stimulates the body's immune response and the tissue that is rebuilt is stronger than what was there before. This is one of our amazing adaptation skills, and enables us to tackle the same weights with ease in time.
2. The body produces a Human Growth Hormone that aids in our development when we are young and continues until about the age of 40, when production slowly diminishes. Along with good nutrition and sleep habits, exercise can help the body continue to produce HGH. Higher levels of this hormone have been shown in studies to increase muscle quality and bone mass.
3. Speaking of bone mass, our bodies have an efficient system when it comes to the skeletal structure. Bone remodeling occurs where specific demands are placed on the skeleton. Bone is added where the body experiences stress, and removed where it is not required. What this means is that if a person is sedentary, their bone does not receive enough stimulus to maintain optimum strength and there is a greater likelihood of fracture. Lifting weights and running (also vigorous walking) create sufficient impact to the bones to encourage bone remodeling, and keep a healthier level of bone mass.

If you are unsure of where to start with weight-training, it is a goods idea to enlist the help of a personal trainer, or an experienced friend. It can be confusing with all of the equipment available to use, and it is a good idea to have some guidance in the beginning.


Good news for chocolate lovers​By Dr. Melyni Worth
Good news for chocolate lovers...scientists at the John Hopkins University School of Medicine say that a few squares of chocolate a day can reduce the risk of a heart attack by almost 50 per cent in some cases. The discovery came after volunteers for a trial on the effects of aspirin were disqualified for eating chocolate, despite being warned that this would interfere with results from the study. (Hey, when the craving strikes, who can resist?)
Despite being barred from participating in the drug study, the chocolate-eaters blood was examined and compared with others who hadn't indulged in order to determine what effect cocoa has on platelets. Platelets from those who had eaten chocolate clotted more slowly than those who had not - taking an average of 130 seconds to clump together compared to 123.
Professor Diane Becker said: "What these chocolate 'offenders' taught us is that the chemical in cocoa beans has a biochemical effect similar to aspirin in reducing platelet clumping, which can be fatal if a clot forms and blocks a blood vessel, causing a heart attack."
She continued: "Eating a little bit of chocolate or having a drink of hot cocoa as part of a regular diet is probably good for personal health, so long as people don't eat too much of it, and too much of the kind with lots of butter and sugar."
The full results of the study were presented to the American Heart Association's annual Scientific Sessions in Chicago recently.


Is Vitamin D Important?​By Dr. Melyni Worth
As we head into winter, most of us anyway, let's remember the importance for an increased need for vitamin D in our diets to make up for a shortfall due to the lack of sun exposure. Lack of sun exposure also contributes to the fact that millions of people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Vitamin D deficient patients are prone to muscle weakness because vitamin D is important for muscle function. Sometimes patients are misdiagnosed with fibromyalgia.
Research at McGill University in Canada, as well as at the University of California and elsewhere has shown that Vitamin D acts as a natural antibiotic and can help boost the bodies natural defense against invading bacteria.
Vitamin D has also been shown to be effective in immune system support and important feature as we get into the colds and flu season. People with low Vitamin D levels are more likely to get an opportunistic infection that those with adequate or high vitamin D levels.
In fact it has been suggested that one reason so many people get sick during the winter months is due to the low levels of sunlight causing a reduction in the skin synthesis of vitamin D. So winter might be a very good time to increase your intake of Vitamin D.


Bustin' Out! Tips on how to get through when the body won't budge​By Kate Kane-Joyce
Oh, the dreaded plateau! If you are trying to achieve fitness and body composition changes, inevitably you will reach a point in your journey everything seems to come to a grinding halt. But fear not! Change can be constant, even for a stubborn metabolism. Here are some ideas on how to keep your engine running, and move on towards your goals.
Add exercise/add a diet plan:If you have been doing one of these without the other and are stuck in limbo, now is the time to make a move. Consider this; if you are eating more calories than necessary on a daily basis, it is illogical to think that 30-45 minutes of exercise 3-4 times a week is going to give you optimum results. Likewise, if you are eating healthfully (proper caloric intake for your lifestyle) but asking no more work from your body than necessary, you will burn no more calories. Consulting a nutritionist for an eating/diet plan, or a personal trainer for a workout that works for you is an investment in yourself.
Honesty is the best policy:What are you eating, really? Are you really working out as hard as you could? If you are serious about change, have a heart to heart with yourself and ask for the truth. It may mean that you have to eat up a no-cal slice of humble pie, but when you do the things that bring about positive change in your physique, you learn how to bring about well-being, and become a better friend to yourself. And if you decide you don't need the extra 300 calories from your daily latte, you may save a little cash. Bonus!
Pack your lunch:When you prepare your own food daily you are able to control the content and quality of nutrients. You know exactly how and what something was cooked in, and you can keep out any unwanted extras, like trans fats. Prepare your meals in large batches and package them in individual-serving plastic containers in your fridge. In the morning when you leave, just take the meals that you need. If you do not cook, learning some basic techniques in the kitchen will prove priceless to your waisteline, and can also impress a date.
Water, water, water:It is a myth that drinking water will make you feel more full. It can only make you feel less thirsty. That being said, thirst can be misinterpreted by the brain as hunger. Water is a major player in all of the body's functions, especially the digestion and breakdown of food for fuel. Having optimum levels of H2O in the system keeps things humming. An average person with a moderately active lifestyle should aim to drink 2-3 liters a day. An elite athlete should be drinking close to two gallons. Where do you fit in?
Fiber:In addition to a healthful diet, fiber provides the stimulation necessary to keep the intestines and colon clean and functioning. Natural sources of fiber include unprocessed grains and raw or lightly cooked veggies. Besides these, fiber can be found in health food stores in capsule or powder form. A great source of supplemental fiber that has numerous additional health benefits is flax seed oil. Flax seed oil can be found in capsule and liquid form. You can also enjoy the seeds whole or milled.


Muscle Move of the Month: The Bent-Over RowBy Kate Kane-Joyce
(Before beginning any exercise or diet program, please be sure to consult with your physician.)
Select a barbell or dumbbells of a moderate weight. Place your feet in a base position, shoulder-width apart, with a soft, slightly bent knee. Keeping your hips lined up with your heels, hold the barbell or dumbbells over-hand, in front of you, with your arms straight and bend forward from the waist to a 45degree angle. Your lower back should remain flat or slightly arched.
Bend your elbows and pull the weight in towards your navel. Strive to feel your back muscles initiate the pull; allow the arms to follow. Pinch your shoulder blades together at the end of the pull. As you lower the weight, keep a slight bend in the elbow, and repeat. Two sets of ten is sufficient for beginners.
Tips:

• The upper body does not move out of position until the end of the set. Try not to "rock" as you lift.
• Concentrate on keeping your weight in your heels.
• Eyes forward, and check your position in a mirror whenever possible.

Facts About HyCel ®
Nutritional Supplement for Muscle, Arthritis & Joint Pain Relief​By Dr. Melyni Worth
HyCel ® consists of three ingredients each designed to help your joints and skin.
Celadrin™: Celadrin is an mixture of esterified essential fatty acids. These special fats will help the cells to rebuild their membranes and be more efficient. This results in a rebuilding of the joint cartilage and improvement in joint flexion and comfort levels. It also has an effect on all the other cells in the body and will result in an improvement in skin texture and feel. Celadrin has been shown in studies at University of Connecticut to improve the activity level and reduce the discomfort associated with osteoarthritis of the knee. Anecdotally the Celadrin helps scars to soften and reduce, even very old scars.
Hyaluronic acid: HA is a component of joint fluid, it acts as a lubricant, and a buffer to absorb concussion. It helps to move nutrients in and out of the cartilage lining the joints. HA is also a vital component of the connective tissue in skin. As you age the bodies level of HA drops and so the skin becomes less resilient and elastic and begins to wrinkle and sag. HA is usually injected into skin to improve it's appearance, and is injected into joints to supply 'joint oil' and improve function and reduce discomfort, but now we have available the oral forms which can get to all parts of the body and help the skin all over as well as the joints.
Magnesium Chelate: The body requires the mineral magnesium for very many enzyme processes especially in the working muscle and in the skin, magnesium also has an effect to relax the muscles and to improve peripheral circulation, this improvement in blood supply to the limbs and skin results in more nutrients getting to where they are needed! Addition of magnesium to HyCel has a synergistic effect on the HA and the Celadrin.


Nutrition facts and news!​By Dr. Melyni Worth
Did you know that only about 38% of women over age 19 exercise regularly! This is especially concerning when fitness and exercise are critical in the menopausal years. These are times when a woman is at a dramatically increased risk for osteoporosis and fracture, heart disease, and chronic diseases such as diabetes. From age 35 onwards, women lose bone mass at a rate of about 0.75% to 1% per year. Regular exercise may decrease the incidence and severity of hot flashes, which occur in 75% of menopausal women. In one study, aerobic training reduced the severity of hot flashes in 55% of postmenopausal women.
Source: Burghardt M. Exercise at Menopause: A Critical Difference. MedGenMed 1(3), 1999.
Every patient in the cardiac care unit at the San Filippo Neri Hospital in Rome who survives a heart attack goes home with a prescription for purified fish oil, or omega-3 fatty acids. In a large number of studies, prescription fish oil has been shown to improve survival after heart attacks and to reduce fatal heart rhythms. The American College of Cardiology recently strengthened its position on the medical benefit of fish oil, although some critics say that studies have not defined the magnitude of the effect.
A study published last month in The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine found that only 17 percent of family doctors were likely to prescribe fish oil to their patients, including patients who had suffered a heart attack.
In a study conducted on behalf of the Dietary Supplement Education Alliance (DSEA) , researchers reviewed data from the National Institutes for Health (NIH), and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), involved data from approximately 7,000 Americans, taken in 1999-2000 and 2001-2002. The aim of the study was to determine whether diabetics who use dietary supplements differ from those who do not in a number of health and behavioral indicators. The data was pooled and the results showed that Use of dietary supplements is significantly associated with reporting oneself to be better health than a year before.
While the majority of diabetics (52%) perceive their health as fair or poor, as compared with non diabetics, the majority of whom felt that their health was good to excellent, of the diabetics who took dietary supplements 54% felt that their health was good to excellent.
Diabetics who take supplements generally scored higher on the NHANES Healthy Eating Index and were less likely to be heavy alcohol users.
Scientific literature showed promising evidence for several nutritional ingredients, including magnesium, omega3 fatty acids and Alpha Lipoic Acid. Among the popular dietary supplements taken by diabetics were chromium, calcium, folate and Omega-3 fatty acids.
The full report, A Study of Dietary Supplement use among people with Diabetes, is available online as a .pdf from the DSEA
www.supplementinfo.org.
​
Improve your conditioning with...The Muscle Move of the Month!By Kate Kane-Joyce
(Before beginning any exercise or diet program, please be sure to consult with your physician.)
I. The SquatThe squat is a compound exercise, meaning it involves more than one group of muscles, the quadriceps, hamstrings and glutes. It is one of the "big three" powerlifting exercises (including bench press, and deadlift), but its results are beneficial for even weekend warriors. Because the squat is such a basic movement, you will find that learning to perform it correctly will improve function for every day life, from lifting boxes to climbing stairs.
Start with your feet placed shoulder-width apart, with your toes turned slightly outward. Keeping your abdominals pulled in, look up and with back straight, lower your hips down and a little behind you, as if you were sitting in a chair (you may want to extend your arms straight out in front for balance). Stop downward movement when thighs are parallel to the floor. Push up through your heels, being careful to keep your back very straight, chin up. Repeat for two sets of eight to ten repetitions, for beginners.
Tips:
You may find proper form is more easily achieved by placing a bench behind you.
Try to keep a good deal of weight concentrated in the heel of your foot, as opposed to the toe. This will take a degree of stress off of the knee joint and put it into the muscle, where it belongs!
​
POWER FOODS​By Kate Kane-Joyce
Include these five super foods in your diet for the biggest nutrition bang per calorie!
Broccoli - Prepared steamed, stir-fried(lightly), or raw, broccoli is a vegetable to be revered. Praised by some physicians for anti-carcinogenic properties, it is also a good source of calcium.
Beans - Quite possibly a perfect food, beans are high in vegetable protein and fiber, making them a must for vegetarians. Be sure they are thoroughly cooked, as undercooked beans are known to interfere with proper protein absorption.
Eggs - Containing all essential amino acids, eggs are convenient, tasty and versatile. Don't want all of the calories of whole eggs? Use two egg whites and two whole eggs to cut calories and keep the flavor.
Nuts - As with our other power foods, nuts are best consumed as close to their natural, raw state as healthfully possible. Check the labels of nut butters to ensure that you are only consuming the healthy fats already present in the nuts, without additives. These fats are great for those on an otherwise low-fat diet, when consumed in proper serving sizes. Almonds are especially known for a multitude of health benefits.
Sweet Potatoes - Even for the carbohydrate-restricted, the yummy sweet potato is a powerful choice! Containing more fiber than white or baking potatoes, the sweet potato does not cause a violent insulin spike and pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, baked fish, or just a protein shake.

​Even during a pandemic, you still need to be treated immediately if you have an emergency. Debating whether or not to risk going to an emergency room during a heart attack, stroke or other health emergency—waiting even a few extra minutes—could be harmful. So if it’s an emergency, don’t wait. For more information: BayCareEmergencyCare.org.

​Teaching For Health Series,
​PREDIABETES
By Mary Gynn, RN, BSN, MSN/MS, MPH, Diabetes Educator
​WHAT IS PREDIABETES?
Prediabetes is a condition that can lead to Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. When you have prediabe-tes, your blood glucose (sugar) levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. Diabetes can lead to many health problems and chronic complications, so it’s very important to prevent diabetes in the first place.
“Prediabetes is a red flag letting you know that you are at high risk for problems,” said Dr. Samuel Klein, of the Washington School of Medicine in St. Louis, Mo. “Approximately 86 million Americans, one in three, are estimated to have a blood glucose level that is higher than normal but not high enough for the diagnosis of diabetes.”
Without lifestyle changes to improve health, 15-30 percent of people with pre-diabetes will develop Type 2 diabetes within five years, per the CDC.
PRE-DIABETES RISK FACTORS:
- HbA1c between 5.7-6.4 percent, per Dr. Ralph
DeFronzo of the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio
• Age 45 or older
• African American, Hispanic / Latino, American Indian, Asian American, or Pacific Islander
• Have a parent, brother, or sister with diabetes
• Overweight
• Physically inactive
• High blood pre sure (140/90 Hg or higher) or taking medication for high blood pressure
• Low HDL cholesterol (35mg/dL or lower) and/or high triglycerides (higher than 250mg/dL
• A woman who had diabetes during pregnancy
• Diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS
REVERSING PRE-DIABETES:
• Cut back on calories and saturated fat (read labels)
• Lose weight
• Increase your daily physical activity
• Get in touch with a Diabetes Educator who has
studied diabetes and can support your life-style changes and work with you on a personal level. They give the time that the doctor does not have. The knowledgeable people in the endocrine “community” can play an important role in keeping you from getting diabetes.
If you are overweight, losing 5-10 percent of your total weight is very helpful. So, if you weigh 200 lbs., the goal would be to lose 10-20 pounds. It can be done gradually, and you can avoid getting diagnosed with “full-blown” diabetes. The less there is of your body and body fat, the easier it is for your pancreas’s beta cells to produce insulin.
You don’t have to make big changes. Small steps can lead to big results, especially eating less and moving more. Walking at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week and eating less fat and calories can lead to big results. Start counting your calorie intake today.
Start each dinner with a salad of leafy greens. Salad provides nutrients and fills you up. Start with switching from regular soda to no-calorie water and eating fewer high-calories foods (read the labels). Start to make the gradual changes to keep diabetes away.
Please remember: “Prediabetes is a red flag. Education is key to diabetes prevention.”
Mary Gynn, RN, is a certified diabetes educator and facilitates diabetes


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         Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people 65 years and older. Millions of
​Baby Boomers enroll in the program each year and depend on it to cover medical expenses.
Medicare can be difficult to understand, causing new applicants unexpected and unwelcome confusion and stress. This article will outline the program in clear terms to help Baby Boomers understand exactly what Medicare is.

​What is Medicare?
Established in 1965, Medicare is a U.S. health insurance system that covers most, if not all of the costs of medical care for people aged 65 and older. The program is funded through a 1.45% payroll tax you’ve been paying throughout your working years. Medicare is a benefit you have earned.
When you sign up for the program you are enrolled in “Original Medicare.” Original Medicare is defined as a “Fee For Service” health plan that is made up of two central pieces: Hospital Insurance (also known as Medicare Part A) and Medical Insurance (also known as Medicare Part B.) When you enroll in the program, you get Part A and Part B. If you want prescription drugs covered, you’ll need to enroll and pay separately for a Medicare Part D program. These programs are available through an insurance company or other private company approved by Medicare.
When you receive medical services, you will be required to pay a deductible. The remaining balance due for the services received is covered through the program but the amount paid will be limited to a Medicare-approved amount. If there is still a remaining balance due, you are responsible to pay it.
In reality, Medicare ends up covering approximately 50% of medical expenses incurred by those enrolled in the program. The remaining 50% of health care costs are generally covered by separate private insurance policies and/or through publicly available Part C or Part D Medicare health plans.
​

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