Low Country Sun Web November 09

www.lowcountrysun.sc • November 2009 1Visit us online at www.lowcountrysun.sc

Pain Specialists of Charleston, P. A.

We specialize in:• Spinal Cord Stimulation• Epidural Steroid Injections• Facet Joint Injections• Selective Nerve Root Injections

• Sacroiliac Joint Injections• Peripheral Nerve Injections• Trigger Point Injections and more

2791 Tricom StreetCharleston, SC 29406

Phone: 843.818.1181

Board Certifi ed in Pain Management& Anesthesia

Edward M. Tavel, Jr, MD

By Don GordonThere is this about Joe Wilson and guitars: He can play them, sell them, fix them, restore them, and build them from scratch. In short, there is little or nothing about the instrument that Wilson cannot do or has not done.. So it is not surprising that the Charleston man is currently the owner and proprietor of Joe Wilson’s Guitar Workshop at 589 Bell Hall Park-way, in Mt. Pleasant. When Wilson was growing up in the 1950s on a farm near New-berry, he had no particular inkling guitars would become such an im-portant part of his life. In the high school marching band, Wilson played the bass drum, and he did some rock and roll on the guitar, which he had taught himself to play. “I just thought it was a good way to pick up girls,” he recalled from his youth. It was the six years he spent in the U.S. Navy, 1960-66, that put Wil-son on the path to his present expertise with the guitar. As for his choice of services, Wilson said., “All my relatives were in the Navy. Besides, I thought it would be better to be on a ship than in a foxhole.” He was assigned to the aircraft carrier Franklin D. Roosevelt, where he played in the ship’s band, later spent time in the Caribbean - Guanta-nano Bay in Cuba and San Juan, Puerto Rico -- also in a musical capac-ity and then to the Navy School of Music in Washington D.C.“That was the equivalent of four years of college,” Wilson pointed out.

Continued on Page 2

CAPSOne of the select few in the Southeast that is a Certifi ed Aging-In-Place

Specialisthome restorations, renovation and improvements

843-871-0150The Tri-County’s Premier Publication For the Young and Active After 50

Serving Berkeley, Dorchesterand Charleston Counties

Joe Wilson’s talentcomes with

Joe Wilson working in his shop and (inset) proudly holding aPaul Reed Smith CE 22 guitar that he restored for the publisher of the Lowcountry Sun.

By Terry SavageIt was only five years ago that people were regaling me with their plans for “early retirement” at age 62 or 60 or even in their 50s! After all, back then, their 401(k) portfo-lios were soaring, and so were the market values of their homes. What a difference a recession

and market crash have made on the national psychology! Now people are asking: “Will we ever be able to retire?” The answer to that question triggered a new edition of my latest book, “The New Savage Number.” And the answer remains the same: Yes. You can and will retire --

Continued on page 2

November, 2009www.lowcountrysun.scVolume 8, No 11

www.lowcountrysun.scNovember 2009 •2

Strings Attached Continued from page 1

The last six months of his hitch were spent in Charles-ton, and that is where Wilson decided to stay. “I didn’t want to go back and be a farmer,” he said. After leaving the Navy, Wilson first went to work in retail sales with Fox Music Co., opened his own music store for a time, returned to Fox Music and then went on the road in the Carolinas and Georgia as a sales representa-tive of instruments. He left that job “when I saw computers taking over the music business,” Wilson said. In the meantime, Wilson had begun to teach himself to repair stringed instruments, guitars and violins and such. “I couldn’t get anyone else to repair my guitars,” he said. “I enjoyed the work. I like wood-working..” Wilson opened his current business in 2000, specializ-ing in repair and restoration, as well as making guitars. He plays professionally with the Bobby Ryder Quartet, based at Hilton Head, though he ad-mits, “There’s more money in selling guitars than in playing them.” His group performs in such Florida locations as Jack-sonville and Orlando, and for the past four years has en-joyed invitations to appear at a

fancy gig indeed, the birthday party for golfing great Arnold Palmer at his Bay Hill Country Club in Orlando. This year, the event was held on Sept. 4-5, and also featured singers Vince Gill and Amy Grant. Of Palmer, Wilson said, “He loves guitar music.” Wilson’s repair work is fed in part by the damage done to the instruments in transit with Fedex, UPS and moving com-panies. “I also get the spousal abuse cases,” he quipped. “You know, when he comes in at 2 a.m. and she breaks his guitar over his head..” The guitars Wilson makes sell for $1,500 to $2,500, and he said he sells all he produc-es. “It’s not rocket science, but it’s time-consuming,” he said. “If I broke it down and sold a guitar for $2,000, I probably would have been working for minimum wage.” Wilson has some impres-sive credentials in the guitar world. He said he built the first double-neck electric guitar for the vocal group Alabama and is the only provider of war-ranted service for the Bene-detto Guitar Co. “Bob Benedetto makes the finest jazz guitar there is,“ Wilson pointed out. “They sell for between $25,000 and $75,000.“ Wilson’s own guitar that he plays with the Ryder quar-

tet is an electric arch top Gib-son. Wilson and his wife Fran have two sons, Bryn, who works for a music company in Savannah, Ga., and Chris, who operates a charter fishing busi-ness out of Charleston. “They divided my two great loves, music and fish-ing,:” Wilson commented. He met his wife while serving in the Caribbean. She was a civil-ian nurse at the naval hospital at Gitmo. In Charleston, Mrs. Wilson worked at the medi-cal university, from which she

retired, and now keeps herself busy as an orchid arranger. The guitar repair business continues to be good, espe-cially in the current economic slump. “With the downturn, people are getting their old ones fixed rather than buying new ones,” Wilson explained. At 67, Wilson doesn’t con-sider retirement. “I couldn’t retire if I wanted to, and I wouldn’t retire if I could,” is how he puts it. A musician would say that attitude about work strikes just the right chord.

Joe’s has outfitted his shop in Old Mount Pleasant with all the tools he needs to practice his craft.

Joe repairs all makes and modelsof stringed instruments.

Quality Retirement Continued from page 1

but you will have a different definition and time frame for that decision. The question has changed from “How much do you need?” to “Is it possible?” But just as Americans were too op-timistic about their retirement prospects a few years ago, I believe we have become far too pessimistic about the fu-ture. It’s not “game over” for America -- or for your retire-ment plans. I have not changed my fundamental belief in the fu-ture growth of the American economy and, with it, the stock market. And the stock market is the one way you can have access to participate in all that growth and build your own wealth. I’m not a market timer, as you know from reading my columns and books over the years. But when the extremes of either pessimism or opti-mism sway the greatest num-ber of people, it’s time to stand back and rethink your posi-tion. The pendulum always swings to extremes. In the past decade, we’ve

moved from an extreme of op-timism about having it all to an extreme of negativity about America’s potential to survive and prosper. Now you see why it’s so important to have a dis-ciplined financial plan. Let’s agree on one thing: If the pessimists are correct, then it really doesn’t mat-ter how your investments are structured. If it’s the end for America, then you don’t need to worry about the value of your stock portfolio! But before you give up on the future, take a closer look at history. America has been though tough times before -- and we always have come back stronger and growing. But every generation must learn this for itself. It’s not just

the lessons of the Depression in the 1930s, which now seem like ancient history. Those now younger than 50 who are shocked by the cur-rent economic recession may not remember the recession of 1980-82. That was an equally scary time -- when the prime rate was 21 percent; mortgage rates were 15 percent; both un-employment and inflation had reached double digits; and the Dow Jones industrial average was less than 800! But America came through those tough times -- and soared to a new era of economic growth based on productivity created by tech-nology. In that dismal reces-sion of 1981, few would have guessed that within 20 years,

the stock market would trade higher than 14,000 or that In-ternet technology would revo-lutionize the way we work, live and learn. History never repeats ex-actly, but it does teach us les-sons. This has been a different kind of recession from any we’ve seen before, because it is fueled by an unprecedented level of debt -- something I have warned against in all of my writings for the past 20 years! So we’ll need a differ-ent sort of resolution. Remember Newton’s laws of motion, which you learned in high school? For every ac-tion, there is an equal and op-posite reaction. Excesses of debt unfortunately must be wiped out, creating an excess of pain for those who over-borrowed. If America can get through this process without losing the free markets that created such wealth through-out our history, then we will be setting the stage for the next period of real growth. It is never possible to know the future. Forecasts, predictions and prognostica-tions always are impacted by current events. It is our job to plan for all of those eventu-alities -- whether ongoing eco-

nomic slowdown or the next boom that will be triggered by an invention yet unknown. And we also must be prepared to survive mistakes made by well-meaning politi-cians and economists. No one political party or economic theory has a monopoly on good -- or bad -- ideas. But we know that economic growth requires a currency that retains its value, laws that protect the values of assets, and markets that can be trusted. That’s what “The New Savage Number” is all about -- creating your own financial security that will help you ride through the tough times, even in retirement. Now it’s more important than ever that you understand the risks -- and potential rewards -- of your investments and your entire financial plan. So let’s get re-started! No matter what your age is, take a fresh look at your plans for the future, because no matter how late you start, your future will be so much better if you prepare for it now. And that’s The Savage Truth. Terry Savage is a regis-tered investment adviser and is on the board of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange.

www.lowcountrysun.sc • November 2009 3

Addressing your future needs is never easy.Attend this FREE Estate Planning Seminar

and You’ll Learn...How to make sure your estate goes to the people you love.

Presented by Kuhn and Kuhn, LLC

Why postpone something so important? This could be the year in which hopes and dreams for

your family will be fulfi lled... or lost to taxes, poor planning and procrastination

STOP PROCRASTINATING!

BENEFITS OF ESTATE PLANNING• AVOID probate delays and expenses• PRESERVE your money for your children and charitable causes• SAVE estate taxes - give your money to your family• PROTECT your assets from nursing home costs!• CHOOSE the right options for your IRA and 401(k)!

Attend one of these seminars and receive a FREE, one-hour, private consultation to answer any questions about setting up a Living Trust.

Presented by Kuhn and Kuhn, LLC39 Broad Street, Suite 301 • Charleston, SC, 29401

Former senator and Attorney John Kuhn is a noted speaker on issues that affect our lives and our state. His law practice focuses on trusts and estate planning, and he is a member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys. John Kuhn has a J.D. from the John Marshall Law school - and his speaking engage-ments are said to be “informative, entertaining and easy to understand.”

Seating Is Limited, So Call 577-3700 Now!Or register online at www.kuhnandkuhn.com

24 Hour Seminar Reservation Line

Mt. PleasantDecember 8, 2009

10am -12pmHampton Inn

1104 Isle of Palms Connector

West AshleyDecember 9, 2009

10am – noonand 6pm - 8pm

Town and Country Inn2008 Savannah Highway

SummervilleDecember 11, 2009

2pm – 4 pmCountry Inn and Suites

220 Holiday Drive, Exit 199-A

Mt. PleasantDecember 10, 2009

2pm – 4 pmHoliday Inn Express

250 Johnnie Dodds Blvd.


For Financial independence, Make long TerMcare insurance parT oF Your Financial sTraTegY

Mark Hotchkiss, CFP®

Financial Advisor

If you’d rather write your will than have a discussion about planning for long term care (LTC) needs, you’re not alone. Results from a 2006 John Hancock Life Insurance Company (John Hancock) Long Term Care Survey re-vealed that more than half of the respondents opted for the will. In addition, a slightly smaller percentage said that going to a nursing home is worse than becoming bank-rupt and half said they con-sider it worse than dying. It’s clear that the emo-tions surounding the very thought of losing our inde-pendence can paralyze us from taking action. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Once people understand the facts about long term care, the planning process is much easier and offers peace of mind about preserving savings, protecting family members from the burden of caregiving, and retaining in-dependence. Long term care is the as-sistance needed by someone who can no longer indepen-

dently perform daily activi-ties such as eating, bathing or dressing. This care can be received at home, in an assisted living facility, adult day care center or nursing home. It’s important to un-derstand that long term care does not necessarily have to mean nursing home care, which seems to be the biggest fear and misconception asso-ciated with LTC. In fact, 80 percent of older adults who receive LTC do so in their own homes or community settings. That’s good news. Yet, with the majority of LTC services provided at home, more Americans to-day have first-hand experi-ence with caregiving and how it affects their personal lives, family, financial secu-rity and work situation. A portion of the John Hancock LTC survey focused on the impact of caregiving, and over half of the respondents said that a family mem-ber or friend needed care.

Knowledge is Power While it is true that the vast majority of Americans recognize the importance of planning ahead, there is

a lack of knowledge about LTC as well as the pros and cons of funding alternatives. With the national average cost for nursing home care at more than $71,000 and the expenses of at-home care or services provided in a com-munity setting on the rise – these costs can really add up. Many rely on the hope that government programs like Medicare and Medicaid will pay for LTC services — but these programs can be very limiting.

Long Term Care Insurance Is the Best Funding Solution

Fortunately, there is an easy way to prepare for long term care and its costs. Long term care insurance (LTCI) was identified by 42 percent of the survey respondents as the best solution for fund-ing long term care costs. It’s important to note that LTCI premiums are based on your age and health when you ap-ply, so it makes sense to buy when you are young. When you think about it, planning for long term care is impor-tant to your overall financial and a LTC insurance policy can help.

Protect yourretirement savings

• Give yourself control over where you receive care – as most policies cover care in all settings these days (home, assisted living facilities, adult day care and nursing homes)• Give you the means to pay for higher quality careRelieve your family and friends from heavy caregiv-ing responsibilities• Receive not only financial support, but professional advice, additional resources and service provider dis-counts It is true that knowl-edge is power. The more you know about long term care planning, the more you real-ize that it is no different from planning for your retirement or other key financial goals. Taking it one step at a time is the key. Do some of your own research (see NAIC, Shopper’s Guide to Long-Term Care Insurance, www.naic.org) or contact me at to learn how we can work to-gether to develop a strategy that fits your needs and bud-get.

John Hancock’s Long Term Care Quiz tells us:

• 80% of older adults who re-ceive LTC do so in their own homes or in community set-tings.• 43% didn’t know that eligi-bility for Medicaid requires spending down assets to state-prescribed levels.• 39% incorrectly assume that Medicare is the primary funding source for most se-niors’ LTC costs.• 69% didn’t know that near-ly • 40% of the LTC popula-tion is under age 65.• 30% incorrectly believed that the average one-year stay in a nursing home costs $30,000, when the national average is more than twice that, at $71,000.• 37% mistakenly believe the average length of stay in a nursing home exceeds four years.

Mark Hotchkiss, CFP® | Fi-nancial Advisor and CERTI-FIED FINANCIAL PLAN-NERTM Professional1024 Wall St, Suite 100, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843.856.9684 office

The Tri-County’s Premier Publication for the Young and Active After 50

Over 200 Distribution Points and 30,000 Readers in the Greater Charleston Area

The Lowcountry Sun is a monthly newspaper dedicated to informing, serving and entertaining active senior adults in the Greater Charleston area.Subscriptions are available, prepaid with order, at $31 for one year. Send subscription orders to:

Lowcountry Sun, 1961 Treebark Drive, Charleston, SC 29414orders received by the 15th of the month will start with the next issue. Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily consti-tute endorsement. Signed columns are the opinion of the writers and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher, advertisers or their agencies. Copyright 2008 - Neighborhood Newspapers, Inc. All rights reserved.

Contributing WritersLiz Sharp, John Parker Cappy Hall rearickJohn Schumacher

Publisher/Sales Torrey monroe843-345-1314

Graphics/LayoutJill Lancaster

Let us mail the Lowcountry Sun to your home.Only $31 for one year.

Name

Address

City/State/Zip

Phone Email

Mail coupon to1961 Treebark Drive, Charleston, SC 29414

843-345-1314 • Fax 843-278-9321

XWIDE to NARROW shoes

We have your size!

XWIDE to NARROW shoes

We have your size!

Store Hours: Tues. - Fri. 10:00am to 6:00pm

Sat. 10:00am to 5:00pm Closed: Sun., Mon. and Holidays

New

Bal

ance

Du

nham

Ar

avon

P.

W. M

inor

Dre

w Rockport Aetrex Neil M Sebago Stride-Rite

Dansko Footmate Jumping Jacks Aravon

Sebago P.W. Minor Jumping Jacks Drew

To Advertisewith the

Tricounty’sPremier

Publicationfor those

50 and after:

CallTorrey

Monroe

843345-1314

oremail

lowcountrysun@

comcast.net



The Life and Times of Cappy Hall Rearick

Humor writer, Cappy HallRearick, proudly marches inherownparadetothebeatofadifferentdrummerandshe’slaughingalltheway. Her writing career begansoon after moving to Holly-wood in 1975. Her first col-umn, Alive and Well in Hol-lywood, was born, followedby: Tidings, Simply Southern,Puttin’ On The Gritz, SimplySeniorandSimplySomething. Cappy haswonnumerousshort story awards, many ofwhichcanbefoundinantholo-gies throughout California,Pennsylvania, South Carolina,Florida and Georgia. In 2003,she was nominated for pres-tigious Georgia Author of theYearAward. SouthernBelleCappyandher Yankee husband “Babe”liveonSt.SimonsIsland.Shehas two sons and six grand-children in Charleston andWalterboro. Cappy’s four publishedbooks,SimplySouthern,Sim-ply Southern Ease, SimplyChristmas and the recentlypublished Return to RockyBottomareavailableat:Ama-zon.com,andatCappy’sweb-site: www.simplysoutherncap-py.com.

By Cappy Hall Rearick

“The difference between men and boys is the price of their toys.”(Author unknown but it was probably a woman!) Babe could be the Poster Boy for TAA, Television Ad-dicts Anonymous. Yesterday when I got out of bed, having slept very little due to a hacking cough, the last thing I wanted to do was shop for a new TV. Poster Boy was determined to change my mind. It went like this: BABE: Hey, hon. Let’s drive down to Costco in Spartanburg and buy us a new TV. ME: (Looking out window) It’s so overcast outside that I can’t see anything except a little white cloud about to sit right down and cry us a river. BABE: That’s just fog. It’ll burn off. ME: (Staring out window) Fog? I’m thinking Celine Dionne and Johnny Ray are about to materialize and belt out a duet.BABE: Somebody didn’t get enough sleepy time.ME: (Looking a hole through the love of my life) Bite me, Babe. My bones were in chron-ic ache mode, meaning that the airborne virus roosting in

my body had built a nest and had moved in permanently. I did not need to slosh around in rainy weather blowing my nose and barking like a Bea-gle. BABE: So? Are you up for a trip down the mountain, a lit-tle shopping and maybe even lunch in a famous chain res-taurant? Every Christmas Babe begs for a super-sized televi-sion and/or a pickup truck, and every year Santa and I make an agreement. I leave him Black Russians and rum balls instead of milk and cook-ies and he leaves Babe a new Black and Decker something. Recalling my sneaky agree-ment with the fat man gave me guilt pangs.ME: (Sigh) Oh, all right. I’ll go with you. In Costco, I headed for the lamb chops leaving Babe to drool over mega-inch TVs, the kind that makes me think I’m in a movie theater on the first row watching Phantom of the Opera in 3-D. It took him less than an hour to settle for a 37-inch set, which in my opinion was thirty-inches too big. I loaded chips, guacamole, and way too much chocolate in our car, stuff I knew would make my

cold go away fast. Babe and his new best friend, the sales-man on commission, loaded Babe’s new toy into the back seat. As we drove out of the parking lot, the conversation went like this:BABE: We don’t really need to go to a restaurant, do we? ME: That was the deal. BABE: I saw a Burger King not far from here. We could do the drive-thru thing and be home in less than an hour.ME: Earth to Babe. I’m wet and hungry. I want real food and I want to go to a real res-taurant, sit in a dry booth and hear a waiter rattle off the spe-cials. I want to eat with a real knife and fork and I want to wipe my lips on a real cloth napkin.BABE: Would you settle for a Whopper and my real hanky?ME: Pull into that Olive Gar-den up ahead and if you’re smart, you won’t argue. I am a sleep-deprived, impatient woman with a new set of acrylic fingernails and I’m not afraid to use them. Back at home I was in the kitchen putting things away and wondering why Costco finds it necessary to super size everything from raisins to roast beef. After feeding

the cats, I was trying to decide if I wanted to cook supper. The rain had stopped but the clouds still hovered, bathing the environment in a ghostly scrim when I went into the living room to ask Babe if he wanted Cheeros for supper or Frosted Flakes. I thought for a moment had I walked into the Cracker Factory. He was sitting ramrod straight on the sofa spellbound by a very blue 37-inch screen not yet hooked up to cable. The words “NO SIGNAL” bounced around the screen like an old time musical movie short where viewers were told to follow the bouncing ball over the words. Gripping the remote control, he sat there as though waiting for the “GO SIGNAL” from God. ME: Babe, what are you do-ing?BABE: (Blushing) Nothing. (Sigh). Just looking at my big ol’ TV screen.

ME: (Rolling my eyes) And it’s not even Christmas. (Pause) Uh, you’re not still planning to ask Santa for a pick ‘em-up truck, are you?BABE: (Grinning slyly) Is right now too soon?

By Cappy Hall RearickPuttin’ On The Gritz

Don’t miss all the holiday magic that comes with the nationally award win-ning…Christmas Made in the South! Join us as we connect with the city of Charles-ton and Debi’s Kids in an effort to bring toys to kids in need. We all know the feeling, thoughts of candy canes and the visions of crisp pure white snow…. Christmastime approaches and what better way to get ready for the holiday season than to stroll the aisles for treasures at this years 16th annual Christ-mas Made in the South! This nationally acclaimed event is a fantastic way to ease into your holiday shopping and find that special holiday gift for that “hard to shop for” person. Christmas Made in the South is fo-cused on keeping the world of fine artisans and craftspeople vibrant. Exhibitors will be there all three days demonstrating and selling their handcrafted works, Santa’s elves hard at work…for you! Christmas Made in the South is an event unlike no other. Amazing craftspeo-ple, outstanding art, unique gourmet food, and diverse entertainment to whet and satisfy every demanding appetite. Hand-made, one-of-a-kind designs populate the booths that fill the festival: silk wearables to fabric bags, dichroic glass jewelry to close-up photography of nature’s funniest and fiercest creatures all await and more. This is the show for those looking for that truly unique gift you won’t find anywhere else. What better place to visit with family and friends, enjoy the festive atmosphere that is Christmas Made in the South.Unique Jewelry: Michelle Frappier is truly gifted in creating that classic design all women want and want to give. Billy

Davis will amaze with his wire sculpture jewelry.Whimsical Painted Tiles: Gina Byrd knows a thing or two about whimsy, and she incorporates her version of it into ev-ery vibrant, one-of-a-kind piece of art she paints, from personalized door signs to colorful room plaques.Wheel-thrown Pottery: A lump of clay,a spinning wheel, and potter Brent Ragan’s skillful hands work together to create functional pieces of pottery for the home.Fine Art: Come experience artist Dee Jackson’s amazing watercolors and cal-ligraphy! Come see all of the performances at this year’s Parkway Stage where there will be dancing, singing and brass bands weav-ing their magical tunes of Christmas! Also don’t forget to see the Charleston’s Train Society’s model trains!! Many different make’s and models all decorated with the Christmas Spirit.What: Christmas Made in the SouthWhen: Dec. 4 – 6, Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-6 & Sun. 10-5Where: Ladson, SCTickets: $6.00 adults, FREE for children under 12, one-admission good for all three days with hand stamp and FREE PARK-ING! Bring an unwrapped toy for Debi’s Kids and receive $2 dollars off general ad-mission!Contact: Russ Hunt, 704.847.9480 To preview the show, get discount ad-mission coupons, detailed directions and more information, visit Carolina Shows, Inc. website (www.MadeInTheSouth-Shows.com) or call Carolina Shows, Inc. at 704-847-9480.

Christmas Made In The South


Here’s a plan that can provideCASH TO HELP WITH FINAL EXPENSES

Up to *

*Selected maximums apply depending on the amount of coverage

Now you can have a life insurance plan to help cover your fi nal expenses - a plan that pays up to $35,000 to help your family cover your last expenses - worldwide

• Protection up to $35,000• Benefits begin first day • Eligible up to age 85• No physical exam required, based on coverage• No waiting period

• Proceeds immediately available at death of insured• Company cannot cancel your plan, reduce your benefits or raise your premium• Can only cost pennies a day• Whole Life Insurance Policy 4-790 (92) Underwritten by Standard and Casualty Insurance Co.PLAN 1: MOST HEALTH

CONDITIONS ACCEPTED!

Sample Monthly Rates per 1,000* Issue Male Female Age (non smoker) (non smoker)

5 $ .55 $ .55 15 $ .59 $ .59 35 $ 1.30 $ 1.08 55 $ 3.20 $ 2.53 65 $ 5.36 $ 4.41 75 $10.23 $ 7.64 85 $19.77 $16.52

Not affi liated with or endorsed by any government agency

PLAN 2: UNBELIEVABLE MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT RATES!

We have the most competitive Medicare Supplement Rates Anywhere!

Please check Block #2 for more information and rates. Automatic Claim Filing included

at NO EXTRA COST!

Name

Address

City/State/Zip

Date of Birth Phone

Peace of Mind3700 Forest Drive Suite 205

Columbia, SC 29204

MAIL THIS COUPON TODAY TO RECEIVE

FULL DETAILSWITHOUT OBLIGATION

PLAN 1 Yes, I would like to know more about the new plan!

PLAN 2 Please provide more information on Low Medicare Supplement Rates plan!

ACT NOW!ACT NOW!

LSC 3/09


By Schu

I come from a family where gra-vy is considered a beverage.- Erma Bombeck

Bear down. We’re just getting warmed up with the second Food Holiday cel-ebration of the American cal-endar. If you still don’t think American culture revolves around celebrating life via the stomach consider our most popular holidays – Hal-loween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Now that the candy laden gluttony of Halloween is but a distant memory in our cu-linary rear view mirror. It’s time to concentrate on the over eating, over planning tradition we call Thanksgiv-ing. Every once in awhile we need to break with some of those traditions, and try something new.

Onion Soufflé Melt two tablespoonfuls of butter in a saucepan; add three large, sliced onions and one cupful of water. Cover

tightly and let the onions steam until tender and all the water is cooked out, and al-low them to become a yel-lowish color. Remove from the fire, mash the onions, add one tablespoonful of flour, the yolks of three eggs and three tablespoonfuls of sugar beaten together, add one tablespoonful of butter, two tablespoonfuls of cream, a quarter of a teaspoonful of salt and the whites of the eggs stiffly beaten. Divide into small, but-tered baking dishes suitable for serving in, sprinkle a little sugar and chopped nuts over the top, and bake until ready.

Recipe courtesy of www.homemade-dessert-recipes.com

It’s all about the Left-overs. People often joke that Thanksgiving takes a week to plan, do all the shopping and then prepare the feast but it only takes a half an hour to finish. Let’s be honest. It takes longer to do the dishes than it does to actually eat the meal! On a side note I still think the primary reason most Americans have that “extra”

refrigerator in their ga-rage is because of that one fateful year they didn’t have enough room for the Thanksgiving leftovers in their kitchen refrigerator. I can hear the conversa-tion now, “Honey, with all the relatives in town and all the leftovers, there is no possible way we can fit all the food in this house!” And the response, “well I guess we’re just going to have to pick up that re-frigerator we saw on sale at Lowes’.” That’s why in my opin-ion the best part of Thanks-giving will always be the leftovers. Leftovers are what the American culture is all about, resourcefullness. Still my favorite meal at Thanksgiving will always be The Next Day Sandwich. I’m already getting excited about picking up nice, crusty Italian bread, walking to the garage refrigerator, slic-ing off a hunk of dark meat, slathering both sides of the bread with a healthy dose of mayonnaise and topping it off with a spoonful of dress-ing and cranberries. So besides that scrump-tious next day sandwich what do you plan on doing with all those leftovers? My first suggestion would be to save that carcass! It makes

a great stock and an even better soup. But don’t stop there. Do your research and look for some creative, re-sourceful recipes.

Cran-Turkey EnchiladasIngredientsNonstick cooking spray 2 to 2-1/2 cups shredded cooked turkey 1 16-oz. can wholecranberry sauce1 15-oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained1-1/2 cups bottled salsa1 cup shredded Colby and Monterey Jack cheese1/2 cup dairy sour cream3 green onions, sliced1/4 cup snipped freshcilantro1 tsp. ground cumin1/2 tsp. salt1/2 tsp. ground black pepper8 7- to 8-inch whole wheat or regular flour tortillas1 tsp. bottled hot pepper sauce

Directions1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly coat a 3-quart rectangular baking dish with cooking spray; set aside. For filling, in a large bowl stir together turkey, half the cranberry sauce, beans, 1/2 cup of the salsa, 3/4 cup of the cheese, sour cream, green onions, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper. Spoon

about 2/3 cup filling on each tortilla. Roll up tortillas around filling. Place, seam sides down, in prepared dish; set aside.2. For sauce, in bowl stir to-gether remaining cranberry sauce, remaining salsa, and hot pepper sauce. Spoon over filled tortillas. Cover with foil. Bake for 45 minutes. Uncover; top with remaining cheese. Bake 5 to 10 minutes more or until heated through and cheese is melted. Sprin-kle with additional cilantro and green onions.

Recipe courtesy of www.bhg.com/recipe/turkey/cran-turkey-

enchiladas

A lifelong foodie, Schu has worked in the food and beverage industry since the age of 15. From dishwasher to general man-ager, from mom & pop joints to hotels and national chains, Schu has also writ-ten for various publications and hosted a weekly radio show dedicated to food.

Fall is here in all its cool weather glory. The changing colors and the nip in the air - and warming up on chilly days with a bowl of comfort-ing soup. Pumpkin Curry Soup is a creamy combination of pumpkin and curry and is simple and satisfying - per-fect for casual entertaining or as part of a sit-down dinner party. “Vegged Out” Pumpkin and Black Bean Soup is per-fect for the vegetarian in your family, but it’s hearty enough to satisfy anyone. The pump-kin blends beautifully with the vegetables, black beans and broth adding extra nutri-tion and delicious flavor.

Pumpkin Curry Soup (Makes 6 servings)2 tablespoons butter ormargarine1 cup (1 small) chopped onion2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped1 1/2 teaspoons currypowder

1/2 teaspoon salt1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper3 cups chicken broth1 can (15 ounces) Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin1 can (12 fluid ounces) Nestle Carnation Evaporated

Milk MELT butter in large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook, stirring frequently, for 2 to 3 minutes or until tender. Stir in curry powder, salt and pepper; cook for 1 minute. ADD broth and pump-kin; bring to a boil. Reduce

heat to low; cook, stirring oc-casionally, for 15 to 20 min-utes. Stir in evaporated milk. Transfer mixture to food pro-cessor or blender (in batches, if necessary); cover. Blend until smooth. Serve warm.

“Vegged Out” Pumpkin & Black Bean Soup

(Makes 8 servings)1 tablespoon olive oil5 green onions (white and

light green parts), thinly sliced (slice dark parts and set aside for later)1 red bell pepper, chopped3cloves garlic, chopped1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin1/2 teaspoon dried thyme2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, rinsed and

drained1 can (15 ounces) Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin1 can (14.5 ounces) no-salt added diced tomatoes, und-rained1 can (14 fluid ounces)vegetable broth1/2 cup water1/2 teaspoon salt or moreto taste1/8 teaspoon cayenne pep-per or more to taste HEAT oil in large sauce-pan over medium heat. Add

white and light green parts of green onions, bell pepper and garlic; cook, stirring oc-casionally, for 4 to 5 minutes or until soft. Stir in cumin and thyme; cook, stirring oc-casionally, for 1 minute. Add beans, pumpkin, tomatoes and juice, broth and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cook for 10 minutes. Stir in salt and cayenne pep-per. Top each serving with dark green onion tops

15% off mention this ad on your

fi rst visit until 12/31/09

732 S. Shelmore Blvd. • Shelmore Village(in front of ION, next to Bi-Lo)


Sliding Scale $20-$40Pay what you can, no

questions asked!

www.FeelGreatCharleston.com

Quality Care,Affordable price

We offer Acupuncture in comfortable groupsettings, Chinese herbal medicine, and Chinese massage. Our sliding scale enables you to get

Acupuncture frequently for best results!

1307 Savannah Hwy.West Ashley

843.763.7200

AN ANCIENT HEALTHCARE SYSTEM THAT

IS NATURAL, EFFECTIVE & AFFORDABLE

AAAANAAAAAAAANANAAAAAAAA AAAAAAA AAAAAAAANCNNCNCNCNCNCNCNNCNNNCNNNCNNCCNCNNN IEEEIEEEEIEEEIEEEEEI NNNNNNNNNNTNNNNNNNNNNTNNNNNN HHHHHHHHH HHHHHHHHHEAEAEAEAEAEAAEAAAAAEAAAAEAAAAAAALTTLTTTTTTHCHCHCHCHCHHCHCHCHCHHHHHCHHHCHHHHHHHHHCH ARRRRRRRRARARRRAARRRRRRRAREEE E EEEEEEEEEEEEEE SYSSYSYSYSTTSTTTTTTSTSTSTTSTSTTSTTTEMEMEEMEMMEMEMMMEMMEEEM TTTTTT TTTTTTTTTHHHHHHHHHHHAHHHHAHHHHHHH TTT T TT

ISIS NNNNNNNNNAATATATTTTTTTTTTUUUURURURRRRRRRRU AAAAAALALA EEEEEFFFFFFFFFFFFFFEFEF CCCCTCTCTTTTTTTTTIIVIVVVVVVIVVEEEE &&&&&&&&&&&& AAAAAAFAFAFAA FFFOFOFOFOOOOF RRRRDRDRDRRRRRRR AAAABABABBBBABA LLLLLELEL

Thanksgiving is a holiday syn-onymous with eating. However, those hosting the holiday this year should also prepare something for vegetarian guests. When doing so, choose a dish that features something you’ll already be making. For example, yams have long been a popular side dish come Thanksgiv-ing. For those cooking for vegetarians this holiday, the following recipe for “Crushed Yam with Chile and Garlic” from Monisha Bharadwaj’s “India’s Vegetarian Cooking” (Kyle Books) serves the dual purpose of satisfying both yam loving meat eaters and veg-etarians.

Crushed Yam with Chileand GarlicServes 4

10 ounces yam, peeled, washed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes1 tablespoon sunflower oil1/2 teaspoon black mustard seeds2 fresh small green chiles, finely chopped1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste (see recipe for paste)1 teaspoon turmeric1 teaspoons crushed peanuts1 Pinch of asafetida1 Handful of cilantro leaves, chopped

Large pinch of sugarSalt, to taste1. Put the yam in a heavy saucepan, cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until it is just tender, each cube being cooked through but still holding its shape. Drain and set aside.2. Heat the oil in another pan and fry the mustard seeds for 1 minute until they pop. Add the asafetida, green chil-es and the ginger-garlic paste. Reduce the heat and fry for a couple of min-utes, stirring.3. Stir in the turmeric and add the re-served cooked yam. Turn up the heat, season with salt and stir to blend. Don’t worry if the yam disintegrates a bit -- it is meant to.4. Add the peanuts, cilantro and sugar,

mix lightly, and remove from the heat. Serve hot.

Ginger-Garlic Paste Ginger and garlic are almost always used together in Indian cooking. To make the ginger-gar-lic paste, take equal quantities of each and whiz in a blender until smooth. Paste is usually made in big batches and frozen in sheets between plastic. When doing so, be sure to put each batch in large freezer containers or else every-thing in the freezer will smell weird. Simply break off bits as needed and add straight to the pan.

Courtesy MS


Every Tuesday isSenior Savings Day!• Friendly Atmosphere

• Personalized Service• Gold Crown Memberships Available

1219 N. Main Street • Summerville, SC(In the Main Market Center between Lowes and Belk)Mon-Sat 10am-8pm • Sun 12 Noon - 5pm

851-2378

Don’t Forget!Veterans Day, Nov. 11th

Thanksgiving, Nov. 26th

For Sale by Owner101 Topaz Dr., Ladson

$109,900Special Owner Financing

While You Wait to Sell Your Home!

LIKE NEW!

3 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths • Split Bedroom plan with large walk-in closets • Formal dining room Open concept • New Stainmaster carpet • Travertine tile • All appliances

Handicap-fi tted bathrooms • Eat-in kitchen • Large rear deck • Ceiling fans • 8x12 storage shedin back • Carport • Furnished or unfurnished • MUST SEE!

568-7166

(off Ladson Rd.)

Home is in located in Southern Palms, an active seniors commmunity for 55+.

Ken and his wife Edna went to the state fair every year,

And every year Ken would say,

‘Edna, I’d like to ride in that heli-copter’

Edna always replied,

‘I know Ken, but that helicopter ride is fifty bucks,

And fifty bucks is fifty bucks’

One year Ken and Edna went to the

fair, and Ken said,

‘Edna, I’m 75 years old.

If I don’t ride that helicopter, I might never get another chance’

To this, Edna replied, “Ken that helicopter ride is fifty bucks, and fifty bucks is fifty bucks’

The pilot overheard the couple and said,

‘Folks I’ll make you a deal. I’ll take the both of you for a ride. If you

can stay quiet for the entire ride and don’t say a word I won’t charge you a penny!

But if you say one word it’s fifty dollars.’

Ken and Edna agreed and up they went.

The pilot did all kinds of fancy ma-neuvers, but not a word was heard.

He did his daredevil tricks over and over again,

But still not a word...

When they landed, the pilot turned to Ken and said,

‘By golly, I did everything I could to get you to yell out, but you didn’t.

I’m impressed!’ Ken replied, ‘Well, to tell you the truth,

I almost said something when Edna fell out,

But you know,

“Fifty bucks is fifty bucks!’


Need Help?Personal Assistance that Promotes Independence

• Care for seniors, new mothers, disabled individuals, and others.• Assistance with dressing, bathing, shopping, etc.• No hourly minimum requirement.• Free, comprehensive, in-home evaluation.• Thoroughly screened and credentialed caregivers.• Acceptance of long-term and private insurances.• Quick turnaround for care - often within 24 hours.

Contact Us Today!

(877) 629-4680www.maximhomecare.com

• Comprehensive fee-based fi nancial planning• Customized investment portfolios & wealth management• Retirement/education planning• Estate planning• Executive compensation plans• Insurance

Coordination of all aspectsof your fi nancial life.

925-A Wappoo Rd. Charleston, SC 29407 843.571.4301

R.E BAXTER & ASSOCIATES, INC.

FINANCIAL COACHING

Securities & investment advisory services offered through Transamerica Financial Advisors, Inc. (TFA), a registered broker/dealer & investment advisor, member FINRA & SIP.Non-securities products are not offered through TFA.

925-A Wappoo Rd. Charleston, SC 29407 843.571.4301

LD33666-09/09

As cold weather sets in, thousands of retirees are making plans for a winter getaway. If you’re one of them, switch to direct deposit for your Social Security pay-ments before you leave - it’s the safest, easiest way to re-ceive your money. “Each year, the U.S. De-partment of the Treasury

receives more than 1.4 mil-lion inquiries regarding pa-per check-related problems,” says David A. Lebryk, com-missioner of the Treasury Department’s Financial Man-agement Service. Yet, approximately 10.5 million Americans continue to receive their Social Secu-rity and Supplemental Secu-

rity Income (SSI) payments by paper check each month. The Treasury Department’s Go Direct (R) campaign en-courages senior citizens and people with disabilities to switch to direct deposit.

Increased safety, conve-nience and reliability When there’s a problem with a Social Security pay-ment, nine times out of 10 it’s with a paper check, not a direct deposit payment, says Lebryk. Paper checks can be vul-nerable to financial crimes like theft and fraud. In fact, the Treasury Department in-vestigates more than 70,000 cases of altered or fraudu-lently endorsed checks each year, totaling $64 million in estimated value. “In 2008 alone, more than 485,000 Social Security and SSI checks were reported

lost or stolen and had to be re-issued,” says Lebryk. Direct deposit is also more convenient and reliable. There is no more waiting for a check to arrive in the mail, and there are no more wor-ries about delivery delays due to severe weather, local emergencies and other check related problems. Last year alone, severe weather events forced alternative delivery arrangements for millions of Social Security and SSI paper checks. “Switching to direct de-posit for federal benefits is such an easy way for people to safeguard their money, es-pecially when traveling for extended periods of time,” says Lebryk. “Your money is deposited to your account on payment day, so there’s no need to worry about deliv-ery delays or a check sitting in your mailbox while you’re gone.”

Prepaid debit card option In addition to direct de-posit, the Treasury Depart-ment recommends the Direct Express (R) Debit Master-Card (R) card as an alterna-tive to paper checks for peo-ple without bank accounts. More than half a million Americans signed up for the

optional Direct Express (R) card in its first year of avail-ability, according to the Trea-sury Department. A recent survey of cardholders finds that 95 percent say they are satisfied with the prepaid debit card, and 86 percent say they would recommend it to family members or friends who receive a federal benefit payment. With the Direct Express card, cardholders can make purchases, pay bills and get cash at thousands of loca-tions nationwide. Sign-up is free and no bank account is required. While most services are free, there are fees for a limited number of optional transactions and services.

Making the switch is easy It is easy to make the switch to electronic pay-ments for federal benefits. To sign up for direct deposit, call the Treasury Depart-ment’s Go Direct campaign helpline at 1-800-333-1795 or visit www.GoDirect.org. To sign up for the Treasury-recommended Direct Express card, or to learn more about the card’s features and fees, call 1-877-212-9991 or visit www.USDirectExpress.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Direct deposit of Social Security is safer, easier for winter travelers

While traveling, make sure your money is deposited safely in an ac-count with easy accessibility.


• Full Service Termite and Pest Control• Termite Damage Repair Warranties

www.portcitypest.com

Daniel Garrett

843.452.1133

Roaches, Ants, Spiders, Fleas, Rats and Mice, etc.

Licensed and Insured • Child and Pet Safe

To Advertisewith the



50 and after:

CallTorrey Monroe

843-345-1314

lowcountry-sun@comcast.

net

Irritable bowel syndrome or IBSIrritablebowelsyndromeorIBSisadisorderthatfocusesmainlyonthedigestivetract.Therearemanysymptomsofthisdisorderandsomecanbedebilitatingwhileothersaretolerable.IrritablebowelsyndromeaffectsoneoutofeveryfiveAmericanandthismakesthisdisorderquitecommon.Thisdigestivetractdisorderhasmanycausesandsymptomsthatcanvarygreatlyfrompersontoperson.

Irritableboweldisordercanbedisruptivetoyourdailylifebecauseitstrikesanytimeafteryouhaveeatenaparticularly irritatingmealor food.Theeffectscan includeconstantlyvisitingof the restroomandalsosomediscomfortandpain in theab-dominalarea.

Causes Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome Therearemanytheoriesregardingthecauseofirritablebowelsyndrome.Mostofthetheoriesfocusonthelargeintestinebeingsensitivetoseveralkindoffoodswhichthepersoneats.Stressalsoplaysaroleinthisdisorder.Anotherpossiblecauseofirritablebowelsyndromecouldbethattheindividualwhosuffersfromthisdisorderdoesnothavethenormalmotilityormovementasotherpeople.Thismakesyourcolonsensitivetodifferentkindsorfoodsthatcantriggerareaction.Othertheoriesincludesensitivitytogluten,abnormalreactionofthecolontoserotoninandbacte-rialinfectionthatmayhavetriggeredirritablebowelsyndromesymptoms.

Manifestationsofirritablebowelsyndromeincludechronicdiarrheaandpainintheabdomenassociatedwiththemovementofthebowel.Mostofthetime,thepainanddiscomfort intheabdomencanberelievedbybowelmovement.Othersignsof irritablebowelsyndromedisorderareaswollenstomach,whitishmucusinthefeces,thefeelingthatyouarenotyetdonewithyourbowelmovementandsome-times,constipation.

Treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome Thereisnoonecompletetreatmentofthisparticulardigestivetractdisorderbutyoucanalleviateirritablebowelsyndromebymakingchangesinyourdiet,relievingyourstressandworriesandalsobytakingmedicineprescribedbyyourmedicalpracti-tioner.Themosthighlyrecommendedtreatmentistobeabletopickoutthefoodsthatyoubelieveirritatesyourdigestivetract.Youcandothiswithatrialanderrorexperiment.Makesurethatyoueatjustoneparticularfoodatatimetobeaccurateregardingthetesting.

Irritablebowelsyndromeaffectsmorepeoplethanyoumightthink.Somepeoplehave just learned todealwith thedisorderby following the recommended treat-mentsbytheirmedicalpractitionerswhileotherstakeoverthecountermedicationtoeasethediscomfortandtheeffects.

Proponents of colon cleansing believe that toxins from your gastrointestinal tract can cause a vari-ety of health problems, such as arthritis, allergies and asthma. They say that colon cleansing — also called colonic irrigation — removes these toxins, thus promoting healthy intestinal bacteria, boosting your energy and enhancing your immune system.

While there is little scientific evidence to support or refute the benefits of colon cleansing, critics say it’s generally unnecessary and at times may even be harmful. Although doctors prescribe colon cleansing as prepa-ration for medical procedures such as colonoscopy, most don’t recommend it for detoxifica-tion. Their reason-ing is simple: The digestive system and bowel natural-ly eliminate waste material and bacte-ria — your body doesn’t need enemas or special diets or pills to do this.

One concern with colon cleansing is that it can in-crease your risk of dehydration. A potentially more serious concern is that certain laxatives used in colon cleansing, such as those with sodium phos-phate, can cause a rise in your electrolytes, which can be dangerous if you have kidney disease or heart disease.

Colon Cleansing

Dr. Keith FieldsDr. Jonathan Mims • Dr. Terry L. Brown

DENTURESSame Day Service

ServingSouth Carolina

Since 1974

InsuranceClaims

Accepted

Dentures from $305 Set

Partials from $210Simple Extractions $43

Relines and RepairsWhile You Wait!

CHARLESTON DENTURE CENTER

5711 Rivers Avenue • North Charleston

744-8338


100% Financing Available100% Financing Availablewww.pleasantlandscapes.netwww.pleasantlandscapes.net

One Month FREE!Receive one month FREE

maintainance with12 month contract

Must present coupon

As seen on HGTV“Landscapers

Challenge”

HOME AND GARDEN TELEVISION

What does the word acu-puncture mean to you? Does it invoke images of ancient Asia, of incense smoke and jade dragons. Does it feel far away and impractical to you? Or do you picture a spa treat-ment, something for celebri-ties, or people with money to indulge in such things? Do you immediately think of nee-dles, and naturally, of pain? Maybe you know someone who gets acupuncture, or you have heard of it in a kung fu movie, you’ve had it yourself, or read an article about it in a health magazine. The mission at a newly-founded clinic in West Ash-ley, the unique Charleston Community Acupuncture, is to make the word “acupunc-ture” a word that everyone in Charleston knows, and to make this ancient, effective health system a reality for all. Over 2 billion people world-wide are regularly treated with acupuncture, and this number continues to grow as the effectiveness of acupunc-ture and Chinese Medicine is proven. Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most widely used health care modalities on earth, and has many amazing practical applications, such as being employed by the US Military to treat injuries on battlefields. Acupuncture itself is the millennia-old practice of in-serting fine needles at specific points on the body for the purpose of cultivating health or alleviating symptoms. It is often painless, and is a fast, effective, non-invasive, drug-free therapy that has been proven effective against a myriad of conditions. Thou-sands of studies published an-

nually in China and through-out the world all show that acupuncture is a safe and ef-fective health modality. The National Institute for Health and the World Health Organi-zation have both recognized acupuncture to be effective against nearly sixty of the most common disorders, in-cluding: arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromy-algia, menopause, insomnia, and sciatica. Acupuncture can be safely used to treat almost anything, such as infertility, migraines, TMJ, chronic back pain, acne and skin disorders, and much, much more. Unfortunately, acupunc-ture is not available to many Americans, because of the high cost of treatment, regu-larly $80-$100 a session. This is what makes Charles-ton Community Acupuncture unique. It is a low-cost, slid-

ing scale clinic that strives to make acupuncture available for everyone in need. Charles-ton Community Acupunc-ture is affiliated with CAN, a global non-profit movement to make affordable acupunc-ture a reality. Treatments are administered in a peaceful community setting, on a slid-ing fee scale of only $20-$40 per session. The cost is actu-ally lower than many standard insurance co-pays, and the treatments far more enjoyable and effective. Though the cost is low, you will not sacrifice qual-ity. Chad Houfek, founder, earned his Masters of Acu-puncture and Oriental Medi-cine degree in Boulder, Colorado, after obtaining his Bachelors of Arts right here at College of Charleston. Chad has over 3,000 hours of train-ing, including 815 hours of

clinical practice, as well as an intensive 2-year externship. Chad is NCCAOM certified in acupuncture as well as Chi-nese Herbology, practices an array of Chinese massage and bodywork, and holds a Reiki Mastery degree. Born in the South, Chad chose Charles-ton as the place to open his revolutionary family-owned and operated business, and is excited to show Charleston what affordable acupuncture means, and what it can do for you. So, if you’re in pain, or you ever wondered what acu-puncture could do, or what it could do for you, now is the time to learn more, at Charles-ton Community Acupuncture. For more information about acupuncture visit www.FeelGreatCharleston.com or call 843-469-3101 to make an appointment.

Is Acupuncture Right for You?

Hear For The HolidaysMultiple Manufacturers

Home Visits Available - 30 Day Trial PeriodMail Supplies to Home - Repairs On All Makes

Musicians Earplugs

Joseph Gillespie, Audiologist • 843.881.8666Mt. Pleasant | Downtown | Moncks Corner | Kiawah Island

First,youshouldnoteatalargemealbeforeoraftertreatment. You should also avoidover exercising, engag-ing inasexualactivityorconsumealcoholicbever-ages 6 hours before andaftertreatment. Since theacupuncturesession will last from 45minutes to 2 hours de-pendingonhowoftenyouhave to go to the clinic,youbetterfixyoursched-ule so you have time torest. Chancesare,youwereconsulting with a doctorprior to your visit to theacupuncturist.Ifthereareany prescription medi-cines given, don’t forgettotakethem. You will not feel anyimprovementafterjustoneor twovisitswith theacu-puncturist. On your nextvisitandtellhimorherhowyoufeltduringtheprevioussession. You might be givensome herbs as part ofyour treatment. Since youdon’t know if taking themwill have any side effectswith the medication youaretaking,youshouldfirstconsultwithyourdoctor ifitissafetoconsumeboth. Womenwhoarepreg-nant are also advised notto undergo acupuncturetreatment. However, theycan engage in that oncethebabyisborn. The most importantthingtododuringtheses-sionistorelax.Ifyoufeelanitch or something, tell theacupuncturist. The samegoesifyouarenervousorexperienceaburningsen-sationsothespecialistwilltakeouttheneedles.

Do’s & Don’ts of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing and to improve func-tioning. This is done by inserting needles and applying heat or electrical stimulation at very precise acupuncture points.


1. Mistletoe Madness by Miriam Heesmistletoe madness is a treasure trove of stories, poetry and art. It says for ages 9-12, but under 5 will enjoy it as a read aloud picture book. 2. The Trees of the Dancing Goats (Aladdin Picture Books) by Patricia PolaccoTrees of the Dancing Goats is one of the most beautiful, poignant stories. It ought to be in every Christmas collec-tion. 3. The Polar Express by Chris Van AllsburgThe Polar express is a great scenario which kids love. The artwork and story are unforgettable. 4. The Sweet Smell of Christmas (Scented Storybook) by Patricia M. ScarryFresh Christmas smells for sniffing along as you read.5. The Jolly Christmas Postman by Allan AhlbergThe Jolly Christmas Postman is full of fairy tale delights. If your child, (or you,) enjoys opening little letters and sur-prises, this book will be cherished. 6. Olive, the Other Reindeer by Vivian Walsholive, the other reindeer is silly Christmas fun. Laugh out loud each timeit’s read.7. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. SeussThe Grinch is a classic. our family reads it aloud while cud-dled with our mugs of hot chocolate. It’s become a favorite tradition. 8. I’ll Be Home for Christmas (Toot & Puddle) by Holly HobbieThis may be the best of the Toot and Puddle books. The artwork and story are enchanting. 9. Who’s That Knocking on Christmas Eve? by Jan Brett This book is destined to be a Christmas classic. Jan brett’s illustrations are always charming, and this story children and a polar bear chasing away greedy trolls is truly marvel-ous. 10. The Nutcracker by Janet SchulmanThere are so many wonderful Nutcracker stories to choose from, but this version is a terrific adaptation of the original from 1816. It also comes with a CD recording of the story and music.

Great Choices in Christmas Books for the Grandkids Sometimes we find ourselves short on

Christmas cash, yet we still have several people left on our Christmas lists. If this happens to you this Christmas, give some thought to these ten free Christmas gift ideas. 1. Coupons: You can easily make coupons this Christmas for your friends, family, and coworkers. Create these Christmas coupons in a word processing program and search for clipart that will match your coupon. 2. Homemade Treats: Homemade treats make the perfect Christmas gift. If you have a well stocked pantry, you can eas-ily make a great Christmas recipe. 3. Photo Collage: Whether it’s for your friends or family, a collage of pictures makes a heartwarming Christmas gift. 4. Offer Your Services: If you specialize in something, your friends will greatly ap-preciate your services.5. A Romantic Dinner: This is a great Christmas gift idea for boyfriends/hus-bands. Another idea, for friends, is to cook a romantic dinner for them. Arrive

at their house with food from your own pantry and fridge. 6. A Night Off: Do your friends have a re-ally hectic life? Work, kids, soccer prac-tice, etc? Give your friends the nights off. 7. Errands: Does your partner have sever-al errands to do on the weekend? Do they have to get the oil changed, go grocery shopping? Let them take the weekend off. 8. Crafts: Are you good at a certain craft? Do you know how to do cross-stitch or crochet? Make your loved ones a home-made Christmas gift using the hobby that you love.9. Book of Quotes and Poems: We all have notebooks lying around the house. This Christmas create a Christmas gift that will show how much you really do care. Go online and search for quotes and po-ems that match the relationship you have with this person. 10. CD: Everyone has favorite songs. Make your loved one a CD that has all their favorite songs on it this Christmas. It just requires searching for the music and burning the CD.

Here are some suggestions for finding mean-ingful Chanukah gifts for each of the eight days of Chanuka. First night: A gift of ChanukahA special menorah can be most memorable gift or a special dreidl for each year. Second night: A gift of generositymost children will be upset to hear that others are less fortunate than they are. They derive a lot of joy from the possibility that they have brought joy to another child or homeless per-son at a shelter.Third night: A gift of togethernessmake the third gift a gift for the whole family – something that you all will like doing together. Fourth night: A gift of knowledgeThis gift could be a model, a craft, or something

to build; a science, magic or cooking kit; or a musical instrument or music, dance, or acting lessons.Fifth night: A gift of laborGive each other coupons for “free labor”. Sixth night: A gift of comfortA new, soft blanket, a sleeping bag, or a mani-cure set, or new cosmetics. Seventh night: A gift of choiceGive each family member a night when he can choose dinner, either a special dish cooked at home or a restaurant. Eighth night: A gift of being a JewGive a gift with a Jewish or an Israeli theme. Use your imagination and find something that will cause a spark of Jewish connection.


(843) 762-2218 (800) 375-0351www.franklin-funding.com

Preserve Your Independence Stay in the home you love with confi denceand help 24/7 with the push of a button.

Call 720-8440Roper St. Francis Lifeline

865 Riverland Drive, Charleston, SC 29412

(843)762-9555

Award Winning Fitness Programs For Adults Age 50+

2 MATTER OF BALANCE Lowcountry Senior Center 12-2pm Mondays, November 2-December 21 Many of us worry about falling… don’t let it stop you from doing what you love! Learn to prevent falls through simple exercises, assess your home for fall hazards, and what to do if you experience a fall. Free for members and nonmembers. A $10 donation is appreciated. 865 Riverland Drive Charleston Tel: 843.762.9555

9 LIVING WELL Mondays, November 9—December 14 10 am—12:30 pm With Heart Disease, Arthritis, Diabe tes, Asthma, COPD, Chronic Pain, & Others. Don’t let your health condition stop you from what you want to do. Free for members and nonmembers. A $15 donation is appreciated to cover the cost of the book. Lowcountry Senior Center 865 Riverland Drive,Charleston Tel: 843.762.9555

10 HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGRAMS Roper St. Francis Advantage 3 p.m. Take Charge! Organ and Tissue Donation in South Carolina Bishop Gadsden, James Island 402-CARE (2273) Free for Advantage Gold members; $5 for Advantage Silver members

10 EAST COOPER CHAPTER OF THE AARP 5:30 pm Mt Pleasant Senior Center, Speaker with be Wendy Weisner from Lowcountry Companions speaking on “The 5 Wishes”.

10 ESTATE PLANNING SEMINAR Kuhn & Kuhn Tuesday, November 10, 2009 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Hampton Inn, Mt. Pleasant 1104 Isle of Palms Connector

11 ESTATE PLANNING SEMINAR Kuhn & Kuhn 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM AND 6-8pm Town & Country Inn, West Ashley 2008 Savannah Hwy.

12 HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGRAMS Roper St. Francis Advantage 10:30 a.m. Let’s Do Health: Strong Bones Roper Hospital, Irene Dixon Auditorium 402-CARE (2273) Free for Advantage Gold members; $5 for Advantage Silver members

17 HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGRAMS Roper St. Francis Advantage Tuesday, November 17 8:30 a.m. Take Charge! Know Your Pharmacist Citadel mall, near Dillard’s *Blood Sugar Screenings at 8 a.m. 402-CARE (2273)

12 ESTATE PLANNING SEMINAR Kuhn & Kuhn 2:00 PM - 04:00 PM Holiday Inn Express, Moncks Corner 505 R.C. Dennis Blvd., Hwy 52 Bypass

13 ESTATE PLANNING SEMINAR Kuhn & Kuhn 2:00 PM - 04:00 PM Country Inn & Suites, Summerville 220 Holiday Dr. (Exit 199-A)

14 ANGEL TREE CRAFT FAIR 9:00 to 4:00 Blessed Sacrament Church Hall Savannah Highway. A large variety of crafts by local crafters as well as the beautiful gift basket made by the ladies of the Women’s Guild. Shop for the holidays and enjoy a lunch with us of home made soup, chili, hot dogs, cornbread and desserts.

14 OLD VILLAGE HARBOR 5K RuN AND WALK 8:30 a.m. Alhambra Hall, Mount Pleas ant. New this year – 5K walk has been added to this event! Register at any Mount Pleasant Recreation Department facility before Friday, Nov. 7 and receive the Early Bird discount. Mount Pleasant Recreation Department. Contact Jay Rhodes at 856-2196 or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

14 13TH ANNuAL HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW The Club at Dunes West, 9am - 3pm All Crafts Are Handmade. Food & Drink will be available for purchase. For more information, please contact us at 843-881-8735.

16 & 18 AARP DRIVER SAFETY PROGRAM. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., Mount Pleasant Senior Services Center The driver safety course helps drivers age 50+ become aware of and counter- act changes that occur due to aging by adjusting driving habits. This course requires no driving. Call 856-2166 for info. or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

18 HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGRAMS Roper St. Francis Advantage 10 a.m. Take Charge! Know Stroke. Know the Signs. Act in Time. Del Webb Charleston at Cane Bay, Summerville 402-CARE (2273) Free for Advantage Gold members; $5 for Advantage Silver members

19 HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGRAMS Roper St. Francis Advantage Thursday, November 19 1 p.m. Take Charge! Planning for the Future St. Francis Hospital, Mall Classroom 2 402-CARE (2273) Free and open to the community Foundation (843) 216-7323

Send your Community Events for December, 2009 to

[email protected] November 20th, 2009


Crossword Solutionfrom page 26

The Eternal Struggle for HealthGod populated the earth with broccoli and cauliflower and spinach and green and yellow vegetables of all kinds, so man and Woman would live long and healthy lives.

And Satan created mcDonald’s. And mcDonald’s brought forth the 99-cent double cheeseburger. And Satan said to man, “You want fries with that?”

And man said, “Super-size them.” And man gained pounds.

And God created the healthful yogurt, that Woman might keep her figure that man found so fair.

And Satan froze the yogurt, and he brought forth chocolate, nuts and brightly colored sprinkle candy to put on the yogurt. And Woman gained pounds.

And God said, “Try my crispy fresh salad.”

And Satan brought forth creamy dressings, bacon bits and shredded cheese. And there was ice cream for dessert. And Woman gained pounds.

And God said, “I have sent your heart-healthy vegetables and olive oil with which to cook them.”

And Satan brought forth chicken-fried steak so big it needed its own platter. And man gained pounds, and his bad cholesterol went through the roof.

And God brought forth running shoes, and man resolved to lose those extra pounds.

And Satan brought forth cable Tv with remote control so man would not have to toil to change channels between eSPN and eSPN2. And man gained pounds.

And God said, “You’re running up the score, Devil.”

And God brought forth the potato, a vegetable naturally low in fat and brimming with nutrition.

And Satan peeled off the healthful skin and sliced the starchy center into chips and deep-fat fried them. And he created sour cream dip also.

And man clutched his remote control and ate the potato chips swad-dled in cholesterol. And Satan saw and said, “It is good.”

And man went into cardiac arrest.

And God sighed and created quadruple bypass surgery.

And Satan created Hmos.


Dr. Joseph Gillespie843-388-9690

1051 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite AMt. Pleasant, SC 29464

www.smilemtp.com

LOOSE DENTURES?

Now you canhave what you crave!

Visit Dr. Joseph Gillespie in the morning, have the “Mini-Implant System” placed inless than two hours, then go out andenjoy your favorite lunch.

This is a one-stage procedure that involvesminimally invasive surgery, no sutures, nor thetypical months of healing.

Call for your complimentary consultation

RETIRE IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME WITH A BANK OF AMERICA REVERSE MORTGAGE.

Cheri WilliamsReverse Mortgage Equity Loan OfficerCell: [email protected]

Credit is subject to age and property qualifications. Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender ©2008 Bank of America Corporation

By Liz Brisacher SharpM.ED., L.P.C.

Each year at this time we talk about making the most of the holidays, along with grati-tude. This year brings unique challenges to many families. Many of our questions deal with facing the holidays with less money than ever. In this time of crisis for many, we all have an opportunity to re-or-der and prioritize our lives--to enjoy the “simple things.” To appreciate what we have, and especially, appreciate EACH OTHER more than ever.

Dear Liz, We love Thanksgiving because it is so much more faith and family centered (and not gift-centered, like Christ-mas has become!) But, we are having to cut back even on our traditional Thanksgiv-ing dinner. We are hosting this year. But, we’re getting stressed because the dollars just aren’t there to put out the “expected” spread. Sugges-tions?

Feeling GuiltyJamestown, SC

Dear “Guilty” (NOT!) OK, I could have written this letter myself. And this theme was repeated in numer-

ous letters and e-mails for this column. So, here goes: Once I dealt with the guilt issue ask-ing myself questions like: 1) Whose expectations are they? 2) Who invented the “required” menu, anyway? 3) What am I trying to make up for--the divorce when the kids were young, my father no longer with us--what??? 4) Who am I really letting down? 5) Am I really letting anyone down? 6) Why am I “equating” money spent, to put on a “spread” and please everyone with their favorites, to LOVE ??? ) Then I got practical. We do covered dishes at church all the time, as do many fami-lies for special occasions. Most people are glad to con-tribute a dish, if asked nicely, in plenty of time to plan and provide it. I decided what I COULD afford to provide (really!) Then, built the menu around that concept. This is so basic--but you would be amazed to know how many people like me - somehow, we have to express our love this way. Loving service is a wonderful thing - going broke doing it isn’t exactly the lov-ing thing to do. People FEEL stress -- the best thing a good host can do is to be calm and

happy. (I’m re-reading this to myself OUT LOUD!) I know that makes my children and my husband the happiest! (“If mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.”)

And what if you can’t afford much at all? Don’t panic -- be honest about what you can do, and let everyone else pitch in. And, about the “adult beverages”--this is NOT a re-quirement. You can certainly ask each person to BYOB, if they are so inclined. I’m sure Emily Post and “Miss Man-ners” may have something to say about that--but--these are hard times for many. And, about over-doing those bev-erages during the holidays?? Please DON’T. Some of the saddest holiday stories I hear in my counseling office are about memories of a family member over-indulging. Now, more than ever--we need clear heads, and kind

hearts. We need to communi-cate better than ever. We need to take time to LISTEN and relate to one another. That is where the real riches are-- in loving relationships. And don’t forget about the fun of a pick up football game after the meal, or a fam-ily walk on the beach. Build-ing memories doesn’t cost a dime! Wishing you and yours all the very best, as we enter the holiday season!


With so many available options for hardwood flooring, today’s environmentally re-sponsible consumer wants ac-curate information to simplify the process of selecting a new hardwood floor. “Be a knowledgeable con-sumer,” says the American Hardwood Information Cen-ter, www.HardwoodInfo.com, “and get the facts about U.S. hardwoods. They’re ‘green,’ exceptionally beautiful and can last a lifetime.” Shop with confidence! These hardwood facts will guide you in making the right hardwood flooring choice.• A solid hardwood floor will provide decades of extraordi-nary beauty, durable service and flexibility. It may initially cost a little more, but remem-ber that solid hardwood floor-ing can be refinished for exces-sive wear or changing tastes. • Hardwood floors are non-toxic and trap no allergens. Simple maintenance -- dust mopping, sweeping or vacu-uming -- will keep them look-ing great and allergen-free.• U.S. hardwoods are truly sustainable. A recent US For-est Service report verified that the volume of hardwood tim-berland in American forests is

almost double that of 50 years ago.• U.S. hardwoods are an all-natural, carbon-negative mate-rial. They have no emissions for methane, nitrogen oxides and other particulate matter and they’re homegrown, fur-ther minimizing their carbon footprint.

Which One? Pre-finished solid hard-wood flooring is already sand-ed and sealed with at least four coats of ultraviolet-cured ure-thane resin by the manufactur-er. It offers consistent quality, quicker installation and im-mediate gratification, meaning you can walk on it as soon as it is laid. Time and money saved during the installation typi-cally offset the initial higher material cost. Unfinished solid hard-wood flooring must be sanded and sealed on-site. While it offers more color choices, it requires extensive prepara-tion. The sanding process is messy; significant drying time is needed after each sealing application often requiring up to five days for completion. While the initial material cost is lower, remember the addi-tional finishing cost.

Engineered flooring, consist-ing of a plywood base that’s covered with a 1/16- to 1/8-inch thick layer of wood, works well in bathrooms and basements where light mois-ture might be a concern. It’s almost always pre-finished. However, because the top lay-er is so thin, it can’t be sanded more than one to three times. The less expensive choices cannot be sanded at all due to the very thin top layer.

Don’t be Misled by Lookalikes The least expensive floor-ing option is laminate. It looks like wood, but it’s really a printed paper affixed to a wood-chip base or high-den-sity fiberboard, covered with a clear surface layer. Remember, it’s not hardwood. Scratches or dings can’t be repaired. Bamboo flooring is being called hardwood. It’s not. It’s a grass typically grown in tropi-cal regions of the world. To

make it into flooring, it must be glued together under tre-mendous pressures. Glue con-tent can range from three to 20 percent, and often contains urea formaldehyde, a probable human carcinogen. Flooring manufacturers approximate it lasting 30 years. Unlike hard-wood, it’s not carbon nega-tive and because it’s typically manufactured in Southeast Asia, shipment to U.S. shores increases its carbon footprint significantly. Chilean Cherry is lenga. Neither is Cherry. Tasmanian Oak and Australian Heritage Oak are really eucalyptus and Malaysian Oak is rubber wood. When in doubt, visit www.HardwoodInfo.com to review the U.S. hardwood Species Guide.

Courtesy MS

Hardwood Flooring Must-Know Shopping Facts

Current design trends favor the natural variety in coloration and character marks as seen in this Chatham sunkissed ash floor.

302 Coleman Blvd.Mt. Pleasant, 843-881-7714

Dorchester Rd. at I-26North Charleston

843-747-9198

Flowertown Restaurant

120 E. 5th N. StreetSummerville

843-871-3202www.fl owertowncenter.com

Locations

Eggs, pancakes, sandwiches, soups, desserts and the largest selection of

vegetables of anyone in town!More food for your dollar!

Breakfast, lunch or dinnerserved anytime.

Family Atmosphere

Home Improvement Handyman Services

Pressure Washing

Charles Benci, OwnerThe fi nest handyman in the Lowcountry!

Quality, Timely Work!Licensed & Insured

❏ Redecorating?❏ Moving?❏ Downsizing?❏ Remodeling?

✔

✔

✔

✔

Call Us Today to Schedule a

FREE Pick-Up of Your Tax-Deductible

Donation!

Sea Island Restore3304 Maybank Hwy.

Johns Island, SC • 29455843.559.4009

East Cooper Restore3469 Long Point Rd.

Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464843.849.8002

All proceeds go to build affordable housing in Charleston County. To Advertisewith the



50 and after:

CallTorrey Monroe

843-345-1314

lowcountry-sun@comcast.

net


Lighting does so much more than provide illumina-tion. Designers know that it can be used to change the whole look and feel of a room. Think about how you want each room to feel when you walk in. Active or inti-mate? Inspiring or dramatic? The types of lighting, their placement in the room - even the type of bulb used - all af-fect the room’s atmosphere. These tips from Mary Beth Gotti, a lighting expert with GE Consumer & Indus-trial, can help you create just the right mood.

Cozy If kicking back in fuzzy slippers and relaxing with a good book is appealing, create a cozy atmosphere.

• Highlight the seating area with ambient lighting, and fo-cus track lights on centerpiec-es. This draws the eye to the central glow.

• Use lighting that emits a soft, warm glow, such as GE Energy Smart and Soft White bulbs.

• Incorporate lamps for read-ing. A reading lamp should be tall enough to shine onto the pages of the book, but not into the reader’s eyes. A floor lamp positioned behind the reader is ideal.

• Torchieres and wall sconces create a warm glow in living rooms and other spaces. A working fireplace adds to the feeling of comfort.

• Light pictures from above using a ceiling spotlight.

Active To create a motivating environment that maximizes productivity:

• Use bright general overhead, or ambient, lighting along with focused task lighting for work areas.

• Recessed downlights can ef-

fectively light countertops and other work surfaces in kitch-ens.

• Under-the-counter lighting also provides great task illu-mination in kitchens.

Welcoming Make guests feel right at home with a warm and wel-coming environment.

• Outside, keep a well-lit walk-

way. This directs visitors to the entrance and makes them feel at ease. Using bulbs such as GE Energy Smart Outdoor Floodlights can put welcom-ing light wherever it’s needed. • Inside, gentle ambient light makes people feel comfort-able. For added relaxation, illuminate the walls and the ceiling to avoid menacing shadows.

• Utilize accent lighting to showcase an interesting ob-ject. This arouses guests’ an-ticipation of the rest of the house, urging them forward.

Intimate To create a romantic room that will leave you starry-eyed:

• Avoid overhead lighting - it can cause a harsh glare.

• Add dimmer switches to give versatility to lighting fixtures.

• Use a variety of lamps to cre-ate a comfortable glow; use shades with warm or dark col-ors.

Courtesy Family Features

Chandeliers Add Drama Chandeliers aren’t just for grand ballrooms or even formal dining rooms anymore. They come in so many styles and sizes that they can add a touch of dra-ma to just about any room in the house. Size matters when selecting a chandelier, ac-cording to Mary Beth Gotti, a lighting expert with GE Consumer & Industrial. She points out there is a simple way to make sure the fixture is not too large or too small for your room. Just measure

the length and width of the room, in feet. Add the two numbers together and the sum should equal the di-ameter of the chandelier, in inches. In the dining room, how-ever, a chandelier should be scaled to the size of the ta-ble, not the room. It should be no greater than the width of the table minus 12 to 20 inches, to prevent anyone from bumping into it. How high off the table should a chandelier be hung? “Typi-cally, you’ll find them 30 to

36 inches above the top of the table, depending on the ceiling height, “notes Gotti. Whether it’s a Mis-sion style fixture hanging in the den surrounded by quarter-sawn oak bookcas-es, a chrome fixture with geometric glass elements hanging in a modern master bedroom, or simply a junk-store find adding a splash of whimsy to a shabby chic apartment - chandeliers can be the crowning star of a room’s décor.

Courtesy Family Features


Do-It-YourselfFinancial Planning??

1 year @ 3.5%2 year @ 3.75%3 year @ 4.25%

5 year @ 6%10 year @ 10%Year After Trail 7%

Tax-deferrals keep the focus on growthInvestment Returns

Protection of your assets and income. Yourfuture depends on it.

LifeTrust Financial® helps you planfor every chapter of your life.

10597 Suite F, Dorchester Rd. | Summerville, SC 29485 | 843.906.7008www.lifetrustfi nancial.com

Not when you plan with a LifeTrust Financial expert.®

Struggling with the Expense of Health Care??We offer:• Immediate Coverage• Low Prices• 4 yr. Premium Lock• HSA 6.15% Interest

WOJO: Check me out!!! My name is Wojo. That’s right…Wojo. Aren’t I a hand-some guy? Some might even call me a head turner…you can’t miss me. I am a brindle and white terrier mix. I am 4 years and 2 months old and house trained!! Although I am not keen on other animals, I LOVE humans!!! I am extremely af-fectionate to people, but I need to be your one and only pet - since I’m not a fan of cats or even a few other dogs. I’m very strong, and it’s in my nature to chase smaller things. But, if you don’t have other pets and you like to be kissed, then I’m your guy!! I need someone who will take me for long walks (or jogging), give me some lovin’, and make sure to give me my medicine as I am heart worm positive...which makes me extra special. Come on by and check me out!!!!

Mojo is available for adoption at Pet Helpers, 1447 Folly Rd. Charleston843-795-1110

Pet Helpers is putting on a male cat neuter-a-thon on Sunday, November 22. Male cats will be neu-tered for just $11.00 at this event. Two vaccines are re-quired for this service. Cat owners will need to show proof of current Rabies and FVRCP (Distemper combo) vaccinations for their pet, or

they may get the vaccines on the day of the surgery. With surgery, the cost for each shot is just $5.00. Mi-crochips will be also avail-able at the reduced rate of $10.00. Cat owners must make an appointment and only tame cats are eligible. In Charleston County, 11,471 homeless pets en-tered shelters last year. 6,750 were put down. Pet Helpers urges the commu-

nity to neuter their cats and help prevent future litters of unwanted kittens. The Tom Cat Blitz makes this normally expensive surgery affordable for all in order to help control the ever-grow-ing population of unwanted kittens and cats in the Low-country. Appointments for Sun-day, November 22 are cur-rently available. Please call Pet Helpers at 843.302.0556

to secure a spot for their male cat or kitten. For more information visit www.pethelpers.org or call 795-1110.

Spaying will be done at:

Pet Helpers Spayand Neuter Clinic1447 Folly Road

Cost: $11.00 per cat Charleston, SC

JOIN uS FOR THE 5th ANNuAL PET

HELPERS FuR BALL GALA

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 66:30 – 11:00 PM

MEMMINGERAuDITORIuM


When Alysa Brennan of Hermosa Beach, Calif., dis-covered one of her Great Danes had cancer, she was faced with a difficult decision, but she felt fortunate that her veterinarian, Dr. Alice Villalobos, was fa-miliar with veterinary hospice care and introduced her to the concept. “I knew Blake, my dog, was old enough that I didn’t want to go through any he-roic measures to try to keep him alive. I wasn’t going to consider chemotherapy. Dr. Villalobos explained that we could keep him as pain free as possible until the end,” Bren-nan explains. “He passed very peaceful-ly thanks to Alice being there with me,” she continues. “He died literally in my arms. I had moved an old couch outside for him, so he could sleep on it. One night he came in and was looking at me in a strange way. I laid down with him, and his breathing was very labored so I called Alice. It was his end.” Hospice care -- physical

and physiological care for the wellbeing of the terminally ill -- has a long history in the United States. But hospice care for animals is a very new concept. Villalobos treated Blake’s end-of-life discomfort with pain medications and ho-meopathic medicines. Veterinary hospice is a philosophy that is really in its infancy. In 2000, the move-ment gained national attention

at the annual convention of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) where Villalobos spoke on hospice care. The first international symposium wasn’t held until March of 2008 at the Univer-sity of California-Davis, and the International Association for Animal Hospice and Pal-liative Care (IAAHPC) is cur-rently being established. Dr. Amir Shana, owner of

the Compassionate Care Vet-erinary Clinic in Chicago, has been offering hospice care to animals for well over a decade. Shana provides house calls for patients who are too sick to make it into his office and also runs a hospice facility, where animals can be boarded. About half of his practice is in pet hospice services. “Hospice is a philosophy of care, it is also a program of care and in certain cases it is an actual place where patients are being cared for,” Dr. Shana explains. For Villalobos, the new movement really recognizes something that has been hap-pening for many decades. “Veterinarians have al-ways offered care to animals at the end of life,” explains Villalobos. “Until now, it has not been a recognized philoso-phy, and it hasn’t had a name.” Villalobos says that one of the most important aspects of this new movement is that it’s seen as a philosophy that is accessible to all veterinarians so they can better serve their

patients. And it doesn’t require that pet owners give up hope, she adds. Pet hospice care can be incorporated with measures taken to attempt to save the pet’s life. It means simply that the animal’s needs are taken care of with pain control and other efforts to reduce suffer-ing. Villalobos says that one of the biggest hurdles in vet-erinary hospice care is dealing with the shock that owners feel when discovering that their pet has a condition that may pre-cipitate end-of-life care. “A decade goes by and it is quick for us, but it is the life-span of a pet. It’ takes a lot of compassion to help people to understand it. It sneaks up on them. We have people who are in shock that their four-footed, beloved companion is now ge-riatric,” Villalobos says. “The philosophy of hospice is let-ting the pet owner know the pet is dying.” Visit www.avma.org for more information.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Pet hospice care helps pet owners cope with death

Alysa Brennan of Hermosa Beach, Calif., with two of her dogs, in-cluding Blake (left), not long before Blake died of sarcoma of the scapula. They are seated on Blake’s favorite couch.

make the Holidays Harmonious for Celebrants all over may look for-ward to the holidays for the hustle and bustle they bring, but the same sentiments may not be expressed by pets ... if they could talk, that is.Pets that aren’t used to a lot of foot traffic in a home or loud events could become anxious when holi-day guests arrive and the fun en-sues. Further stress could be add-ed by lack of attention on the part of pet owners and the changes of the home environment through the addition of decorations and a Christmas tree.Christmas and New Years also present a host of hazards to pets. It’s important to be aware of these dangers to keep pets safe. Keep these pointers in mind: • Don’t use poisonous plants in your holiday decor. Holly, ivy, mistletoe, and poinsettias can be deadly if consumed by most ani-mals. Go with faux plants instead if you desire the look.• Keep your pets on a steady diet and resist the urge to feed them leftovers from holiday dinner. Abrupt changes in your dog or cat’s diet can cause stomach dis-

tress, vomiting and diarrhea. • Set aside a quiet space your pets can retreat to when there’s just too much commotion in another area of the house. However, put-ting a dog in the backyard if it is extremely cold is simply off limits. A dark bedroom away from the ac-tivity is best.• Cats love to climb and may take to your Christmas tree. Safeguard against the tree tipping over by se-curing it with a piece of fishing line anchored into the ceiling or a wall. Also, don’t put lit candles or break-ables on areas where cats like to pounce.• Involve pets in the festivities by buying a special treat that they can enjoy for good behavior during the holidays. A new chew or chase toy is a nice idea.• If you will be traveling during the holidays, make sure your pets are adequately secured in the car and not allowed to roam freely. Use a travel crate or a special seat belt to keep the animals in place.With some planning and care, you can ensure your pets will be com-fortable and content during the holiday season.


CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK CITYDECEMBER 1 – 6, 2009 – 6 days/5 nights lodging. 6 Meals. Driving tour of New York

City with a local tour guide, tickets to “The Rockettes @ Radio City Music Hall”, “Fini-an’s Rainbow” and “West Side Story”, dinner at “Dallas BBQ” and “Mont Blanc” prior to the Broadway Shows, free time for shopping in New York City, plus more. $1437.00 PP/MD $1510.00 PP/NMD Only 4 spaces left!!!

TOP OF THE LINE TOURS ANNUAL CHRISTMAS LUNCHEONSATURDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2009 – CHARLESTON MAR-

RIOTT – 170 LOCKWOOD DRIVE – 11:30 AM TO 2:00 PM – PLEASE CALL TO RSVP – FREE TO CURRENT CLUB MEMBERS!!

H A R R A H ’ S CHEROKEE CA-SINO & HOTEL DECEMBER 14 – 15, 2009 – 2

days/1 nights lodging at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Hotel and dinner buffet. $119.00 PP/MD $125.00 PP/NMD

CHRISTMAS AT BILTMORE ESTATES, ASHEVILLE, NCDECEMBER 27 – 28, 2009 – 2 days/1 nights lodging. This is one of our

most popular trips each year. Get away and relax after all of the hustle and bustle of the Holidays. 4 Meals included. Tickets to Bilt-more Estate and Winery, lunch at Biltmore’s Deerpark Inn, driving tour of Asheville and part of the Blue Ridge Parkway (weather per-mitting). $234.00 PP/MD $244.00 PP/NMD

NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA @ NASH-VILLE’S OPRYLAND HOTELDECEMBER 30, 2009 – JANUARY 2,

2010 – 4 days/3 nights lodging. Two nights at the Opryland Hotel with Atrium View Rooms, dinner cruise on the General Jackson Show-boat, shopping at Opry Mills, New Year’s Eve Gala to include a four-course dinner, bottle of wine per couple, live orchestra, party fa-vors and Midnight Champagne Toast!! We will also enjoy a fabulous New Year’s Day Brunch at the Opryland Hotel. WHAT A WAY TO RING IN THE NEW YEAR!!! $926.00 PP/MD $974.00 PP/NMD

TOP OF THE LINE TOURS – 26TH AN-NIVERSARY TRIP - CARNIVAL FREEDOM EASTERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE – JANUARY 29 – FEBRUARY 7, 2010 1 nights lodging in

Titusville, FL en route to Port Everglades, dinner at the Dixie Crossroads, 9 Day/8 Night cruise on the Carnival Freedom with ports-of-call to include San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; Antigua; Tortola, British Virgin Islands and Nassau, Bahamas. LIMITED AVAILABILITY – ONLY 2 CABINS LEFT!! CALL FOR DETAILED BROCHURE AND PRICING!! COME CELEBRATE WITH US!!

Sit Back, Relaxand Leave the Driving to Us!

CALL 843-766-0747 FOR MORE INFO., DETAILED BROCHURE & PRICING!!

ONE-DAY ADVENTURES:NOVEMBER 28, 2009HISTORIC SAVANNAH @ CHRISTMAS

DECEMBER 8, 2009CAROLINA OPRY CHRISTMAS SHOW #1

TOP OF THE LINE TOURS

Call our offi ce for detailed brochures on all of the above trips or for other available trips.

Save money and join Top of The Line Tours Travel Club

Give the gift of travel • Gift Certifi catesare available! It makes a perfect birthday,

anniversary or holiday gift!

1908-G Savannah Plaza • Charleston, SC • 843-766-0747 • 1-800-845-7659

DECEMBER 10, 2009CAROLINA OPRYCHRISTMAS SHOW #2

LOOK WHAT’S COMING IN 2010!JANUARY 9 – 14 BILOXI, NEW ORLEANS & MOBILE

JANUARY 19 – 25 MYSTERY TRIP #70

FEBRUARY 9 – 16 SNOWTRAIN ADVENTURE

FEBRUARY 20 – 21 HISTORIC SAVANNAH

FEBRUARY 24 – 28 THE OTHER SIDE OF ORLANDO & DISNEY

MARCH 3 – 11 TEXAS ON TOUR

MARCH 16 – 18 HISTORIC THOMASVILLE & BAINBRIDGE, GA

MARCH 21 – 24 GOLDEN ISLES & MACON CHERRY BLOSSOMS

MARCH 26 – 29 WASHINGTON, DC CHERRY BLOSSOM TIME

APRIL 8 – 14 NASHVILLE, MEMPHIS & TUNICA

APRIL 25 – MAY 2 BROADWAY LIGHTS & AMISH SIGHTS (NYC & PA)

APRIL 16 – 21 SOUTHERN SPRING GARDENS TOUR

MAY 4 – 10 AMANA COLONIES & PELLA TULIP FESTIVAL

MAY 12 – 19 TULIP TIME – NIAGARA FALLS & OTTAWA

MAY 16 – 21 HATS OFF TO LOUISVILLE & ASHEVILLE

MAY 24 – JUNE 16 CANYONS & PACIFIC COAST HWY

JUNE 22 – 29 MYSTERY TRIP #71

JULY 6 – 10 NC COASTAL ADVENTURE

JULY 11 – 29 ATLANTIC PROVINCES OF CANADA

AUGUST 4 – 24 PACIFIC NW & CANADA’S NATURAL TREASURES

AUGUST 6 – 8 LITTLE SWITZERLAND, NC

AUG 30 – SEPT 10 GRAND HOTEL, FALL TRAIN & UPPER MI PENINSULA

SEPT 14 – 17 FALL IN THE SMOKIES-MAGGIE VALLEY & PIGEON FORGE

SEPT 21 – 29 FALL IN THE OZARKS-EUREKA SPRINGS & BRANSON

OCTOBER 2 – 10 CAPE COD & MARTHA’S VINEYARD

NOVEMBER 18 – 22 AN AMISH CHRISTMAS-LANCASTER, PA

NOV 30 – DEC 5 CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK CITY

DECEMBER 7 – 9 CALLAWAY GARDENS & LAKE LANIER CHRISTMAS

DECEMBER 12 – 14 CHATTANOOGA CHOO CHOO CHRISTMAS

DECEMBER 27 – 28 CHRISTMAS @ BILTMORE ESTATES

DEC. 30 – JAN. 2, 2011 NEW YEARS @ OPRYLAND HOTEL

PLUS MORE ADVENTURES TO BE ANNOUNCED!


Fall is a great time to travel – the weather is cooler and there’s still a lot going on. If you don’t have the time or budget for a long vacation, you can still hop in the car and take a day trip. There are plenty of places to go and things to see within driving distance – you just have to look for them.Leaf-Peeping: New England may be the most famous area for its autumn leaves but there are places in the Midwest, Southeast, mid-Atlantic and even Utah and California that put on a good show as well. Prime leaf peeping season ranges from early September in the North, to as late as No-vember in areas of the South. To find the best time to go, check: The U.S. Forest Service website at www.fs.fed.us/news/fallcolors, or call the Fall Color Hotline at (800) 354-4595. or check out www.fo-liagenetwork.com For other ways to see great foliage, look into local options for family-friendly rock climb-ing tours, bike paths, gondola rides, hot air balloons, or foli-

age trains.

Fall Festivals: From small town harvest festivals to big city music fests, there’s some-thing to celebrate all season. Find one near you at www.fes-tivalnet.com or www.festivals.com. You’ll find gems such as:Hispanic Heritage Festival, Miami, Fla. (Oct 1 – 31)Earshot Jazz Festival, Seattle, Wash. Oct 16 – Nov 8Great Mississippi River Bal-loon Race, Natchez, Miss. Oct. 16 - 18Pirate Days of The Colony, The Colony, TX Oct. 17 and 18.Maine Brewer’s Festival, Port-land, ME., Nov. 6 and 7Bluegrass Festival and Fiddle Championship Wickenburg, Ariz., Nov. 13 – Nov. 15.

Family Fun. At www.ADay-sOuting.com, you can search for family-friendly attractions in your area. For example, a family looking for an Octo-ber daytrip within 90 miles of Cleveland, Ohio could find recommendations for: Taking a ferry ride to Put-in-

Bay on South Bass IslandVisiting the Akron ZooRenting a canoe to paddle the Mohican River at Mohican State Park

Winery Tours: Locate all wineries in your state at www.AllAmericanWineries.com. At www.WinesandTimes.com, there’s an interactive map that lets you see just where the win-eries are and helps you plan a tour. (Did you know there are 39 vineyards and wineries in New Mexico and 67 in Illi-nois?)

Be Spontaneous: Not sure where you want to go or just feel like taking a spur of the moment road trip? Use the Tank of Gas feature at www.TripAdvisor.com. Enter your city name and how much gas you want to use – quarter tank, half tank, full tank – and a list of day trip ideas will pop up.

There’s a lot of fun still to be had, so do a little research, load up the car and hit the road!

Courtesy of Family Features


Like many great success stories, Burma Shave started by happenstance. Burma Shave, a brushless shaving cream, was concocted by the Odell fam-ily. Its predecessor product, a liniment called Burma Vita, was not doing very well in sales. It was suggested that it would be more profitable to market a product that could be used ev-ery day, such as Lloyd’s Eux-esis from England. This was the original brushless shaving cream that was available world-wide. A chemist was hired and after about 300 mixtures were tried, Burma Shave was born. However, inventing the product was not the key to suc-cess, and the product almost died several times because of poor marketing. One of the marketing schemes was called “Jars on Approval,” in which the Odell boys would enter a man’s office and give him a jar of Burma Shave on this basis: if he liked the product he would pay them 50¢ the next time they saw him. If he didn’t like Bur-

ma Shave they would take back the unused portion and “remain friends.” Then one day, Alan Odell came up with a suggestion. He suggested roadside signs like the ones he had seen on road trips when he was out trying to sell Burma-Shave.His father gave in and gave him $200 to try out his idea. The year was 1925, and the automobile had people be-ginning to take to the roads of America. Second-hand boards were purchased, cut into 36-inch lengths, and painted. The original signs did not have a rhyme. Typically, four consecu-tive signs would read,

SHAVE THEMODERN WAY

FINE FOR THE SKIN DRUGGISTS HAVE IT

BURMA SHAVE

The signs were put up in a hurry before the ground froze solid on the two roads leading

out of Minneapolis. There were about a dozen sets of signs put up on the two roads. Not too long after that, the first repeat orders for Burma Shave were received from drug-stores because the people who travelled the two roads where the signs had been installed were purchasing Burma Shave from area drugstores. At this time, the business was broke, so the company was incorporated and 49% of the stock was sold to raise capital. Within three weeks, the shares had been sold, and in early 1926 the first sign shop was set up. The signs continued to bring success and became more and more humorous. The six consecutive signs, when placed 100 paces apart, created some-thing unique in advertising. The consecutive signs com-manded the attention of those reading them longer than any single sign could ever hope to do. The entertaining signs helped make long journeys more entertaining, and people became addicted to reading them. By having the rhymes build suspense until the fifth sign, Burma Shave forced those read-ing the signs to focus their atten-tion on reading the full series of signs so that the message could

be understood and savored like a good joke. For instance:

THE BEARDED LADY TRIED A JAR

SHE’S NOW A FAMOUS MOVIE STAR

BURMA SHAVEor

IF YOU THINK SHE LIKES

YOUR BRISTLES WALK BARE-FOOTED

THROUGH SOME THISTLES BURMA SHAVE

Eventually, the signs spread to every state, with a few excep-tions. No “official” signs ap-peared in Arizona, New Mexico, or Nevada because of low traffic density. Massachusetts received no signs because winding roads and excessive foliage made it hard to find enough locations to justify placing them there. The slogans were very powerful, so much so that the Burma Shave Company did not even feel the effects of the De-pression. The rhymes aimed at motivating potential purchasers of Burma Shave were not just cute, but were probably some of the best advertising slogans

ever written. Some of them sug-gested to men that they would do better with the women if they used Burma Shave:

SHE EYED HIS BEARD

AND SAID NO DICE THE WEDDING’S OFF I’LL COOK THE RICE

BURMA SHAVE

Though the Burma Shave Company prospered, there were many challenges, too. Not only was there fierce competition, there was also the need to come up with a continuous supply of superior verses. This was solved with an annual contest that paid $100 for each verse used. Judg-ing the entries eventually be-came difficult because in some years there would be more than 50,000 entries. This forced Bur-ma Shave to hire some advertis-ing copywriters to help in the selection process. After World War II, in-creasing costs and decreasing sales began to be felt by the company. People were travel-ling faster on the highways and times were changing. The signs just weren’t working anymore, and the company started to ad-vertise with other media.

CATARACT SURGERY • DIABETICEYE DISEASE • EXAMS • GLAUCOMA DRY

EYES • EYE INFECTIONS/INJURY“If you think your vision could be better, you are probably right.”

JAY THOMPSON, MDBoard Certifi ed Ophthalmologist

843-553-24779565 Hwy. 78, Building 400

Ladson, SC 29456One block East of Ladson Rd.

1901 ashley river rd. unit 6Acharleston, sc 29407

843.556.2878www.simplyyourspa.com


Kevin [email protected]

davidsonwebsolutions.com

803.707.1215

Davidson Web Solutions can handle all of your web design, graphic design, and web hosting

needs. Free quotes given for all design submis-sions. Email us with any website ideas and we

will get back to you in a timely manner.

Thanks for checking out our ad and we look forward to serving you in the future.

Service When You Need It

Jeff MemeringOwner/Manager

CharlestonTransmission

1746 Sam Rittenberg Blvd. • Charleston, SC 29407843-769-5600

Complete Car CareTransmission Repair

Auto Repair Towing✔

✔ ✔

Certifi ed MasterMechanics

Hours: Mon-Fri7:30am - 6:30pm

Locally Owned and Operated

$100 off any

transmissionrebuild

(with this ad)

www.SoutheasternCruises.com 843.856.0027Kathy Comar Bustos

Support LocalLocated in the heart of Mt Pleasant

Contact me for all your travel needs!Call 553-6060 todayfor your free in home assessment or to schedule services

www.utopiahomecare.comServing Berkeley, Charleston, Dorchester, Colleton and Orangeburg Counties

Bonded and Insured, Est. 1983Family-Owned and Operated

'Age in Place'

UTOPIA with

Home Care24 hour live-in care availableShort-Term and Long-Term

Brighten up Your Holiday Decorating

By James ParkerOut in the Yard

Christmas lighting can add a sense of joy and anticipation to the your holiday decor.

With the holiday season fast approaching, homeown-ers and businesses may want to consider decorating for the holidays. In prior years, holiday decorating was a fam-ily event. It included pulling out decorations, sorting thru them, and figuring out how to display them to enjoy the holiday season. As we all age, the ability to do this year after year becomes more dangerous and time consuming. Thus, the concept arrived of having someone hired to come out and help the homeowner(s) and businesses to get this job done- quickly and safely, al-lowing families to spend more quality time together in a fes-tive holiday atmosphere. Christmas Décor was founded in 1996 in Luv-vuck, TX and has now spread throughout 48 states and Canada. We offer complete decorating packages for your home or business. Some dif-ferent lighting techniques are roof lights. Roof lights are the base of most lighting jobs. They go up quickly and give

you the most bang for your dollar. Roof lights also illumi-nate your home and give it that gingerbread house look. This is especially true when it gets dark around five or six in the

evening. Tree and shrub lighting can highlight specific plants in your yard to give them a soft twinkle or a dramatic Christ-mas decoration. We also of-fer window lighting which is a technique of using special

clips that adhere to the glass so that each window can be out-lined with lights. This is often one of the more unique looks of the Christmas decorations because most people don’t

have the ability to easily copy this look. Another option in-cludes stake lighting. Stake lighting takes large Christmas light bulbs and attaches them to plastic stakes placed in the ground to light up driveways, pathways & beds. I would be careful about putting these in the grass area as they can be damage by mowers, weed eat-ers, etc. Stake lighting is one of the more affordable options available at Christmas Décor of South Carolina. Wreaths and greenery are also available and add a little

day time décor to your home or business. These can be with or without lights. Wreaths and greenery with the classical bows add traditional decorat-ing that can be enjoyed during the day and/or night. Christ-mas trees can now be rented for the season. They are often delivered during the week of Thanksgiving and allow you to decorate them with your own decorations. They can be live or artificial depending on client’s needs. This takes the hassle out of getting the tree, setting it up and putting pre-lit lights on it as well as the take down and storage at the end of the season. Christmas lighting for 2014 and beyond: Part of previous President George Bush’s Clean Energy Act, mandated that all incandes-cent light bulbs be phased out by 2014. The Christmas decorat-ing solution to this is LED light bulbs. LED stands for Light Emitting Dioads. LED light bulbs use about 10% of the power that traditional light bulbs use. This does a variety of things for the lighting in-dustry. LED bulbs are a great solution for people who have power issues such as homes who do not have enough pow-er to run their display without it shorting out. They also re-duce your power bill during

the holiday season and raise the life expectancy of a bulb from 2,000 hours to 50,000 hours. Today, LED lights are still relatively expensive in the retail market. However, they are the way of the future for all lighting displays. The initial upfront cost will be saved in the long run due to longer bulb life, re-duction in power usage, and decrease in maintenance is-sues. The LED light bulb is extremely durable and does not break easily and can have an extremely brilliant white or colored light emitted from them. As we move closer to the mandate in 2014, I expect these lights will decrease in price as production increases and be a common everyday sight. If you’d like to see examples of other people’s Christmas displays you can go to www.Christmasdecor.net and view well decorated homes & businesses across the United States. We are the local South Carolina franchise and can be reached at 843-216-8445.

Have a Happy Holiday Seaon!James Parker

[email protected] 886-9314,John’s Island 768-6808Summerville 851-8008 Daniel Isl. 216-4796 www.pleasantlandscapes.com

REVERSE MORTGAGES MADE EASY

GregSchoonover

Reverse Mortgage Specialist

(843) 708-3776 (843) 256-5100

e


CLUES ACROSS 1. Cornmeal mush (British) 5. The actors in a play 9. Good gosh!14. Olive tree genus15. Friends (French)16. The 23rd state17. Daminozide

18. Fallow deer19. Firth of Clyde island20. Maine resort23. Raised speaker’s platform24. Dekaliter25. Eye tooth28. Past tense33. Turkish leaders titles

34. Elevate35. Point midway between NE and E36. More scarce38. A bird’s reproductive body39. One who challenges41. Characterized by unity42. Santa’s helpers44. M. Jackson’s daughter ____s45. Unsupported47. Odorizes49. Last calendar month50. SW Scottish river51. Geometric figure57. Lariat or lasso59. Not fake60. Hollies61. Composition for nine62. “Picnic” playwright Wm.63. Baseball team #64. Actor’s remark to the audi-ence 65. Post-traumatic stress disor-der66. 1st St. Louis bridge name-sake

CLUES DOWN 1. Cleansing agent 2. Quick tempo (abbr.) 3. Repast 4. A place of bliss or delight 5. Golf club carrier 6. Get together

7. Cartoon star Bart ____son 8. Czar (alt. sp.) 9. Gave forth10. Rinse one’s mouth and throat11. Ventilates12. Contains genetic code13. 1/100 yen21. Teenage sleuth ___cy Drew22. 15th of March25. Chocolate bean substitute26. Capital of Guam27. Nostrils28. In a way, summons29. Equipages30. Showed old movie31. Unable to move 32. Punctuation mark: as_____k34. Increases motor speed37. Refer to another40. Italian mountain range43. Polish unionist46. Copyread47. Dirtied48. New postal location (abbr.)50. Pulls with difficulty51. Wife of a Raja52. Journey53. Camping shelter54. Neuroglia55. Give temporarily56. X X X 57. Works with DNA58. Winged goddess of the dawn

Crossword answers on page 16


ONLINE

Checkus out

www.lowcountrysun

.sc

Dr. Khouri can develop and carry out a comprehensive treatment and management plan that can include spinal

adjustments, soft tissue therapy, prescription of exercises, and health and lifestyle counseling.

Chiropractic is a Natural HealthSolution for Your Pain

Low Back PainHeadachesNeck PainPost Spinal SurgeryMassage Therapy forPain Associated with Osteoarthritis

Dr. Khouri and his staff

◆

◆

◆

◆

◆

Khouri Chiropractic119 East Bay Street, Suite 100 Charleston, SC 29401

For an appointment call

843.853.BACK

Mom and Pops

Blaine Moose843.323.2240Abi Moose843.323.2239Rest: 843.406.6666momandpopscharleston.com1291 Folly Road, James Island, South Carolina

8A8

Every year, millions of consumers unknowingly pur-chase software from pirates. At a time when shoppers are looking to save money, coun-terfeiters offer substandard products at prices that may be tempting. Counterfeit soft-ware can look just like the genuine product, but it can ex-pose unsuspecting victims to spyware, malware and viruses and even lead to identity theft. According to the Business Software Alliance, it is esti-mated that 41 percent of all software installed worldwide in 2008 was pirated. The val-ue of this unlicensed software has reached $53 billion annu-ally. “Selling counterfeit soft-ware is big business. Although customers might think they are getting a good deal by buying software at a discount, it might be more costly in the long run,” said Cori Hartje, senior director, Microsoft Genuine Software Initiative. “It’s important that custom-ers know what to look for and how to better protect them-selves.”Microsoft recently conducted an online survey that looked

at perceptions and attitudes on computer security and coun-terfeit or nongenuine soft-ware. It found that four in 10 respondents say they can’t tell the difference between coun-terfeit and genuine software. In the United States alone, nearly half (48 percent) of the 308 participants said they were not able to tell the dif-ference between genuine and counterfeit software. Only 41 percent say they know how to check if a product is pirated or counterfeit. Compare that with 96 percent of respon-dents who say it’s important that their computer is secure from viruses and other secu-rity threats.

“This shows there’s a major gap that leaves customers easy prey to counterfeiters,” Hartje said. James Edwards, a cus- tomer in Florida, recounts his experience as a victim of counterfeiting: “I found out I had a counterfeit copy of Win-dows when I went through the validation process. The sell-er’s price was only a bit lower than the market average, so I just thought I was getting a better deal.” Pirates and counterfeit-ers are becoming increasingly more sophisticated, and their nongenuine software is be-coming harder to spot. Eighty-six percent of the Microsoft

survey respondents cited qual-ity as the No.1 factor when de-termining if a product is genu-ine. So what should consum-ers do if they can’t touch, feel or get a good look at the prod-ucts they find online?“The best way customers can protect themselves is if they buy from someone they know and can speak with directly,” Hartje said. “Buying from a computer manufacturer or an-other reputable reseller is the safest way to buy software on-line.” Linda Elmenhorst, a cus-tomer in Oklahoma, shared that “After purchasing what I thought was a legitimate pack-age of Microsoft Office soft-ware and loading it, I went to a Microsoft Web site to check for updates and other soft-ware. It would not validate that it was a genuine product. I needed this software to per-form business functions and wanted the updates and down-loads.” Microsoft provides free and easy-to-use tools that cus-tomers can use to determine if their software is genuine. The How to Tell Web site,

http://www.microsoft. com/howtotell, features pictures of recently seized software and guidance on what consumers should look out for when buy-ing software online. Questions that consum-ers should be asking before they purchase software in-clude these:• Are you buying from a repu-table reseller?• Would you be able to con-tact the reseller personally if there were issues?• Have you checked the soft-ware manufacturer’s Web site for suggested sources for their software?• Is all the normal documen-tation that you expect to see provided with the product?

Customers who have been duped into purchasing pirated or counterfeit soft-ware should return to the re-seller and ask for their money back. They may also want to contact their credit card company to see if there is recourse and report the pi-rated Microsoft software to [email protected] or at www.bsa.org for other prod-ucts.

Computer Ergonomics for SeniorsPositioning the Keyboard

It is important to position the computer keyboard so the hands can type in a neutral and flat posture. There are several ways to achieve this posture. The easiest way is to place the keyboard on a height-adjust-able, negative slope keyboard tray that attaches to the under-side of a desk or a table. Sever-al manufacturers produce this type of product. A second way of working at a keyboard is to

position it on a surface that is at elbow-height when you are seated. Remember to type with the hands straight rather than bent up or down. This approach can work for short periods of time. However, as the forearms tire out, the wrists tend to fall to the surface, which causes the hands to extend upward on the keyboard keys. This can cause wrist problems.

If you are working with a lap-top computer, place the lap-top on your lap, sit back in the chair, and type with your hands in a neutral position on the keyboard. If you only have a single hand or restricted mo-bility in one hand, consider using a one-handed computer keyboard.

Positioning the Mouse When using a computer

mouse, position the mouse on a surface that is close to your body and near elbow-height or slightly above. If you use a keyboard platform, make sure it is equipped with a mouse platform. The best designed mouse platform is one that can be moved slightly above the key-board keys. As you hold the mouse in position it will posi-tion your hand into the most neutral posture.

Positioning theComputer Screen

Position the computer screen directly in front of you while you are working. Sit back in your chair, hold your arms out in front of you with your hands

outstretched. Your fingers should just about touch the center of the computer screen. In this position the com-puter screen is at the correct height, at the right distance from your eyes, and centered on your body. Try to use a LCD screen rather than a CRT screen to avoid screen flicker-ing. If you use a laptop com-puter, position the screen at a comfortable viewing height and angle. Make sure that your computer screen is free from any reflected light in the work-space. Position your computer screen away from an unshaded window. If the position of your computer cannot be changed, cover the window with a blind or drapes to alleviate screen glare from reflected light.


Documents

Low Country Sun Web November 09