Blog Archives - John Knox Village

11 Fun Things To Do With Grandkids (And Great Grandkids!) In South Florida

April 1, 2024/in Blog

One of the greatest things about living (or snow birding) in South Florida is that getting kids and grandkids to come visit isn’t a very hard sell! Our incredible sunny days and sparkling beaches make it a welcome spot for all generations. So now that they’re here, what to do? We’ve rounded up our 11 favorite places to go that everyone in the crew, no matter how old, can enjoy.

Broward County

Museum of Science & Discovery & IMAX Theater, Fort Lauderdale www.mods.org

MODS exhibits are designed for children and adults of every age and include the Keller Science Theater, Florida Ecoscapes and Wildlife, Science Park, the Great Gravity Clock, Storm Center, Prehistoric Florida – a Dino-Paleontology Experience, Food Forrest, otters at play, and so much more. Home to South Florida’s largest movie screen, the IMAX Theater features big budget movies and gorgeous documentaries on the natural world.

Butterfly World, Coconut Creek www.butterflyworld.com

The largest butterfly park in the world, Butterfly World is located in Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek. Since 1988, Butterfly World keeps 20,000 butterflies on display and up to 50 species can be seen daily. Attractions include a Lorikeet Encounter, Paradise Adventure Aviary, Bug Zoo, The Butterfly Lab, Tropical Rain Forest Aviary, Macaw Landing, Wings of the World Secret Garden and much more.

Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Fort Lauderdale www.bluefootpirates.com

Swashbuckling fun for the whole family, Bluefoot Pirate Adventures is South Florida’s top-rated boating attraction where all ages are welcome. Book a Pirate Family Adventure Cruise where little pirates search the ship for treasure as you sail through the waters of the Intracoastal. The Bluefoot is a U.S. Coast Guard-inspected and certified vessel with a maximum occupancy of 49 passengers. Also offered is a daily Pirate Sunset Cruise and private charters.

Xtreme Action Park, Fort Lauderdale www.xtremeactionpark.com

The largest indoor entertainment venue in Florida, Xtreme Action Park has over 200,000 sq. ft. of exciting attractions including Go Kart racing, bowling, an arcade game room, Ropes Course Adventure, Trampoline Park, roller-skating rink, escape rooms, laser tag, virtual reality games, mini golf and more. Get the kids out of the heat and into the fun, Monday through Sunday.

Tigertail Lake Recreational Center, Dania Beach www.tigertaillake.com

One of Broward County’s best-kept secrets, Tigertail Lake Recreational Center is run by Broward College, but open to all. The Tigertail Lake experience is for every age with a variety of activities from watersports, sailing, wind surfing, a ropes course, kayaking and canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and a water obstacle course. All activities are offered in one-hour sessions so you can book them a-la-carte to create a fun-filled day of activities for the family. Private parties and picnic areas are available.

Flamingo Gardens, Davie www.flamingogardens.org

Situated on 60 acres, Flamingo Gardens features botanical gardens, an Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary, and over 3,000 species of rare, exotic, tropical and subtropical native plants and trees. It’s also home to a 25,000 sq. ft. aviary with over 250 birds representing 45 species, a Birds of Prey Center, Black Bear Habitat, Flamingo Pond, American Crocodile, River Otter, Panther and Bobcat Habitats and more. The Wray Home Museum at Flamingo Gardens is the oldest residence in Broward County with a glimpse of life in South Florida in 1930s.

Palm Beach County

Riverbend Park, Jupiter https://discover.pbcgov.org/parks/Locations/Riverbend.aspx

Riverbend Park on the Loxahatchee River in Jupiter offers endless fun in the tropical 666-acre park split by the Loxahatchee River with hiking and horse trails, plus picnicking. Activities include bicycle and walking trails, canoeing/kayaking, freshwater fishing, and even seven miles of equestrian trails. The park is also home to Loxahatchee Battlefield and a portion of the Ocean-to Lake Florida Trail.

Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, Boca Raton https://www.myboca.us/2096/Gumbo-Limbo-Nature-Center

The Gumbo Limbo Environmental Complex, commonly known as the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, is operated by the City of Boca Raton. The center includes an indoor museum with exhibits, small aquariums and a gift shop, plus several large aquariums featuring ecosystems for fish, turtles, and other sea life, a boardwalk trail through the adjacent woods, and a garden designed for observing butterflies. Events organized by the center include observations of sea turtles during their nesting season.

Manatee Lagoon, West Palm Beach www.visitmanateelagoon.com

Manatee Lagoon is dedicated to educating the public about manatees and is a free Palm Beach County educational attraction with a dedicated area for viewing manatees up close. The 16,000-square-foot center features engaging hands-on exhibits for visitors to learn all about these threatened and unique creatures as well as the natural wonders of the surrounding Lake Worth lagoon. On cold winter days, the facility’s observation deck is the ideal spot to view manatee herds basking in the warm-water outflows from Florida Power & Light Company’s adjacent Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center. Florida manatee season runs from November 15th to March 31st.

Lion Country Safari, Loxahatchee www.lioncountrysafari.com

Lion Country Safari is situated on nearly 600 acres of natural area and home to hundreds of animals. The 4-mile drive-through wildlife park features large herds of animals roaming wide open in naturalistic habitats. Visitors can expect to see impala, wildebeest, waterbuck, buffalo, lions, zebras, rhinoceros, giraffes, ostriches, chimpanzees, and so many others. Kids of all ages can have close-up experiences with the animals in encounters including giraffe and lorikeet feedings and a petting zoo. Lion Country also offers an amusement park, water park, a mini golf course, pontoon boat rides, paddle boats, a hedge maze, fun slide and more.

Cox Science Center and Aquarium, West Palm Beach www.coxsciencecenter.org

Since 1959, the Science Center has revolved around a simple premise: science is exciting! The Cox Center has expanded since its creation and now houses over 50 hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, a 3,000 sq. ft. aquarium, mini golf, and a large exhibit space that displays a temporary traveling exhibit. The planetarium presents daily shows utilizing a traditional star projector, as well as full-dome digital video presentations on a variety of scientific topics. The “Aquariums of the Atlantic” exhibit is a 3,000 sq. ft. area consisting of multiple tanks that house native Florida species, including Queen Angels, Pink Wrasse, sharks, seahorses, eels, stingrays, and some invasive species such as lionfish.

John Knox Village of Florida, Inc. (JKV), Pompano Beach, (www.johnknoxvillage.com) is an internationally award-winning Life Plan Community of choice for those seeking an upscale, enriched lifestyle which provides long- term medical care for residents. Residents do not have to look far for ideas and activities to do with their grandchildren – the JKV Life Enrichment and Fitness teams plan approximately 250 activities per month, including outings and visits to interesting points of interest in South Florida.

Senior couple walking hand in hand alongside Lake Maggie at John Knox Village

Celebrate Earth Day Every Day – And Live a Long, Healthy Life

March 25, 2024/in Blog

How it all began

Over half a century ago, Earth Day was made official on April 22, 1970, marking the birth of the modern environmental movement. In previous years, Americans were true gas guzzlers driving massive and inefficient cars that emitted smoke, sludge, and air pollution without any concern for its impact on our environment. Sadly, Americans remained largely oblivious to environmental concerns and how pollution threatened human and other living organisms’ health. And there were no legal or regulatory procedures in place to protect the planet.

Inspired by the anti-war movement and being a longtime advocate against the decline of the natural world, Senator Gaylord Nelson from Wisconsin created Earth Day in the spring of 1970 to force the issue onto the national agenda. On April 22, 1970, twenty million Americans demonstrated in cities across the country with rallies, clean-up events, and educational programs, and Earth Day was born.

Spending Time with Nature Can Add Years to Your Life

Did you know that spending time in green spaces may contribute to your longevity by as much as 2.5 years? Studies suggest that long-term exposure to greenery is good for your health.

From The Washington Post, “(Studies) show that being near green space causes some biological or molecular changes that can be detected in our blood,” says Lifang Hou, a preventative professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and the study’s principal investigator. David Rojas-Rueda, an epidemiology professor at Colorado State University, adds, “We know the benefits of green space in reducing premature mortality. (We now know) how this could happen by describing how green spaces can modify how genes are expressed.”

Trees & Flowers May Boost Cognitive Health

Trees, flowers, grass, gardens and parks are wonderful for all our senses, but they’re also great for our cognitive health. According to The National Institute on Aging, residential areas with more green space are associated with faster thinking, better attention, and higher cerebral ability.

A journal published by the JAMA Network Open shares findings of a US-based study of adults 65 and over, citing that exposure to some natural environments can be associated with a decrease in hospitalizations for Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias, as well as Parkinson’s Disease. The study found that “exposure to green space around one’s home and surrounding neighborhood could improve processing speed and attention, as well as boost overall cognitive function.” The results also showed that “lowered depression may help explain the association between green space and cognition, bolstering previous research that has linked exposure to parks, community gardens, and other greenery with improved mental health.”

For older adults, retirement can provide more time and opportunities to engage with nature, irrespective of age and health status. In whatever ways we’re able to get out and enjoy the natural environment, there’s no doubt a breath of fresh air and experiencing the wonder of nature does a body – and mind – good.

John Knox Village in Pompano Beach, Florida is an internationally-award winning senior living Life Plan community that engages its residents with exciting activities to stimulate the mind and senses. Located three miles from the beach, it’s situated on a 70-acre lush, tropical campus with an abundance of green space for residents to enjoy.

Join us in celebrating Earth Day this April at any of the following John Knox Village events:

April 6th – Bonnet House Orchid Festival & Brunch
April 10th – Sample McDougald House Garden Tour & Lecture: ‘Environmental Discussion on Climate Change and Bees & Pollinators’, and Art in the Park: ‘Herb Bouquets’
April 17th – Wildlife Wonders Presentation: ‘The Majestic Elephant’ at JKV
April 26th – Nature Walk (Fitness event)
April 27th – Pompano Beach Green Market outing

Contact us for more information on any of these events, to reserve your spot, or schedule a tour. Visit JKV and come see what sets us apart!

Michelin-Star Chef Frederic Delaire joins John Knox Village as their new Executive Chef

JKV Spotlight on Executive Chef Frederic Delaire: His Journey from Michelin-Starred Restaurants to Senior Living

March 18, 2024/in Blog

As an award-winning Life Plan community in Pompano Beach, Florida, John Knox Village prides itself on finding incredible talent, such as Chef Frederic, and offering the very best to its residents – from life enrichment and fitness to cultural arts and dining. Chef Frederic Delaire has been a fantastic addition to John Knox Village, and we are so fortunate to have him.

Chef Frederic grew up in southwest France in the idyllic town of Agen, one hour from Bordeaux. As a boy, he became interested in cooking as his grandfather was a well-known bread baker. He cooked at home for his family all the time. So, when he graduated high school in 1989 at 16, he was presented with a choice – culinary school or an apprenticeship at a restaurant. Being from a middle-class family, neither Frederic nor anyone in his family had ever eaten in a high-end restaurant. Imagine his surprise when his first restaurant apprenticeship was at the 2-star Michelin classic French restaurant, L’Aubergade in Puymirol, about an hour from home, where he started as a dishwasher and worked his way up to Pastry Chef.

Struck by wanderlust after four years, Chef Frederic traveled to Germany to work with German Chef Christian Lohse at the restaurant Die Windmule in Westphalia. In 1997, he returned to France to join the team at the famous Michelin Star restaurant Jules Verne, located on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, where he worked both the meat and fish stations for three years.

In 1999, Chef packed his bags and flew to South Florida. Among his stops as Executive Chef before joining JKV were the Historic National Hotel on South Beach and Loews Miami Beach.

He also participated in the South Beach Wine & Food Festival for 13 years, collaborating on special dining events.

The long hours and 7 days a week schedule running busy kitchens began to take their toll on Chef and his wife and daughter, who is now 12 years old. Chef Frederic says, “I knew I had to make adjustments to my work/life balance to spend more time with my loved ones, as well as to take care of myself.” He started looking for different opportunities. His job search led him to Lance Sanson, the VP of Dining Services at JKV. After a meeting of the minds, Sanson hired Frederic as the Executive Chef at JKV in July 2023. Adds Chef, “The reason I am at JKV is because of Sanson. He has a vision for John Knox Village, and I want to be a part of that. It is an exciting time to be here.”

Under Chef Frederic and Lance Sanson’s leadership, the dining program across the board has gone through a great metamorphosis at the 6 restaurant concepts across campus. New approaches have been implemented at the Pavilion, where there are two restaurants – The Pearl and Seaglass that share a kitchen, and a new menu has been created to better serve our residents. The other restaurants, The Palm Bistro, Glades Grill and Poolside Pub, each have their own personality with fresh concepts. The soon-to-open Westlake Eatery and BVs French Press Coffee & Wine Bar are in menu development and will open in the summer of 2024. They will also focus on fresh, healthy, delicious options – all under the supervision of Chef Frederic.

Get to know us and come see how Chef Frederic and the rest of the JKV community are best-in-class. If you would like to schedule a private tour and tasting dinner at JKV, please contact VP of Sales, Kim Ali at kali@jkvfl.com, or (954) 783-4040.

Treats for Your Sweet on Valentine’s Day

February 6, 2024/in Blog

Food is the universal love language, and Valentine’s Day is a perfect day to express it! Whether cooking a romantic dinner for two or hosting a Galentine’s Day brunch, show your sweetie or your friends some love by making one of these delicious recipes that members of the JKV community have whipped up for you. […]

Be in the Know: Life Plan Communities Offer Some Valuable Tax Benefits

January 25, 2024/in Blog

When looking at retirement living options, buying or renting into a senior living community are well-known options. But choosing to live in a Life Plan Community offers some valuable federal tax benefits that other senior living options do not. Read on to learn more.

What is a Life Plan Community?
Life plan communities, also known as continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), provide the security of having a plan in place for any future healthcare needs that might arise. Residents live independently, knowing if they ever need care, they’ll have it. Most CCRCs offer multiple service levels: independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory support services, all available when you need them.

What are the tax benefits?
Current federal income tax laws permit residents at Life Plan Communities or CCRCs like John Knox Village in Pompano Beach a tax deduction on a sizeable portion of the one-time entrance fee the year of move-in. In addition, a percentage of the monthly service fees paid during each year can be itemized as a medical expense.

At the beginning of each year, in some communities, such as John Knox Village, auditors calculate the portion of the Entrance Fees and Monthly Service Fees that are attributable to medical expenses and provide this information to residents for their tax preparation.

Can a financial advisor help me navigate this?
Tax and financial advisors can play a crucial role in helping seniors living in CCRCs and Life Plan Communities navigate the complexities of tax laws related to their unique situation. An advisor can help you understand CCRC-related tax deductions, such as:

• The amount or portion of your healthcare services and fees to the CCRC, as applicable
• Other potential itemizable deductions, such as local income taxes related to living in a CCRC
• Specific tax implications of different types of CCRC contracts, including the nuances of life care, fee-for-service, and other modified contracts

In addition, financial advisors can help seniors project future healthcare needs and provide guidance on potential tax implications for accessing long-term care services within or outside of the CCRC.

How much can I deduct?
According to Carol Enisman, Investment Advisor Representative and Managing Partner at Premier Wealth Planning in Fort Lauderdale, “The current tax code allows you to deduct a portion of your unreimbursed medical and dental expenses that exceed a set percentage of your Adjusted Gross Income.”

However, she says, it’s important to note that you’ll need to itemize your deductions rather than take a standard deduction, which would disqualify you from claiming medical expenses.

I’m not sure which type of care contract I’m going to choose. Can you tell me the tax benefits of each?
The tax benefits may vary, depending on which type of care contract you select. A Life Plan Community Consultant can explain the different contract options, including Type A, B, and C contracts, and what each includes. Depending on how much healthcare coverage is included in the contract you choose, the medical expense tax benefit may vary.

For some types of CCRC contracts, a portion of the entry fee and monthly fee may be applied toward future medical expenses. Essentially, this portion is considered a pre-paid medical expense and may be included as part of your annual medical expenses.

It’s always best to speak with your tax professional, who will be able to advise you with up-to-date tax regulations.

Are there any other tax deductions seniors should keep in mind when filing taxes?
Most of us know that medical bills, hospital bills, prescription costs, dental and vision care, in-home medical care, and costs for hearing aids and glasses are tax deductible.

Another hidden gem that might surprise you is that the standard mileage rate for driving to and from doctor appointments, therapy sessions, and other medical care is also tax deductible.

JOIN US FOR A FREE TAX SEMINAR IN MARCH

Join us for a free seminar on Monday, March 11, 2024 at 11:00 am, at the John Knox Village Auditorium. We’re excited to welcome Carol Enisman, Investment Advisor and Managing Partner, and Ariel Enisman, Estate Planning and Asset Protection Attorney from Premier Wealth Planning in Fort Lauderdale, to our campus. JKV Residents and guests are welcome.

Carol will focus on the importance of proper tax planning, tax filing updates, and optimization strategies and will offer a new client discount of 25% for tax preparation this year. Ariel will be speaking on wills, trusts, probate avoidance, and the importance of proper estate planning.

Premier Wealth Planning works with clients to understand the complexities of the tax code and how it applies to residents of a CCRC. Non-JKV Residents who are interested in attending are welcome. Please call John Knox Village at (954) 783-4040 to RSVP.

Premier Wealth Planning Mandatory Disclaimer:
Securities are offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a SEC Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge and Premier Wealth Planning are not affiliated. Cambridge and Asset and Estate Planning, LLC are not affiliated. Cambridge does not offer tax nor legal advice.

12 Reasons Why Pickleball May Be the Greatest Sport to Ever Come Along

January 11, 2024/in Blog

Whether or not you’ve taken to the court yet, it’s hard to escape the fastest-growing sport in the United States. Pickleball, the racket sport that’s a Badminton-Ping-Pong hybrid, seems to be everywhere! With its skyrocketing popularity and the demand for places to play, public parks are making renovations to create more courts to keep up with demand, and now empty retail spaces abandoned by the likes of Bed Bath and Beyond are being considered as potential locations for indoor courts.

What makes pickleball so great? JKV Residents Michael and Barbara say it gives them “purpose to get up in the morning and get moving.” Barb says, “When we’re playing, we are using almost all the muscles in the body, and the game connects us socially to so many other residents. We laugh so much when we play! We’re so lucky to live at JKV and to be able to utilize the beautiful pickleball courts, any time of the day, at the new Aquatic Center.” She says the reason they play almost every day is, “A day without pickleball is like a day without sunshine.”

If you’re not already in the game and that hasn’t convinced you, here are 12 reasons why you should be playing:

It’s Easy to Learn

Pickleball is an approachable sport. Even for those not athletically inclined, it’s a non-intimidating sport that can turn even the most unlikely candidate into an athlete. You can step onto the court and be at an intermediate level within a short amount of time. Unlike tennis, the rules and basic techniques are relatively easy to learn.

Anyone Can Get in the Game

Whether you’ve always been active by nature, or have always wanted to be, pickleball is suitable for all fitness levels. The size of the court is one-fourth the size of a tennis court. With that much less real estate to cover while trying to hit the ball, it’s less intimidating for those who may not be athletes.

It Contributes to Longevity

A Mayo Clinic study found that playing racket sports may increase the life expectancy of participants by 6 to 10 years. Although the study was observational by nature, it was noted that because racket sports involve more interaction with others than individual sports, and socialization has been shown to positively impact one’s well-being, this benefit may be a factor in pickleball’s overall health benefit.

Your Heart Will Get a Low-Impact Workout

Playing pickleball provides a moderate workout for middle-aged and older people but may be safer than tennis for people with heart issues. Although it’s a cardiovascular workout, it doesn’t put excessive strain on the body. You’ll burn twice as many calories as you would walking 3 miles per hour on moderate terrain.

You’ll Build Muscle and Improve Your Balance

In addition to the boost it gives your cardiovascular system, playing pickleball requires hand-eye coordination, and builds your muscles. Your forearms, biceps, triceps, hamstrings, and quadriceps are all getting a great workout when you play. It can also help your balance.

It Keeps Your Brain Sharp

Once you master the basic skills of the game, you start to think about strategy. Where is your opponent positioned? Where does their typical serve land on the court? Analyzing the competition, your own placement and strategy, and the desire to keep improving your own game all keep those synapses firing and help keep your mind sharp.

You’ll Sleep Like a Baby

Playing pickleball is so much fun, you’ll hardly notice that you’re getting a real workout until later in the day. Aside from the physical exertion that’s been proven to have significant benefits for sleep, getting out there and playing helps lower stress levels and helps you relax when the day is done.

It Promotes Healthy Habits That Can Lead to Weight Loss

Playing pickleball burns eight to eleven calories a minute, so 60 minutes of play can burn 480-660 calories. You’d need to play four and a half hours a week to meet recommended exercise guidelines, but with the enticement of the social aspect, it gets some people moving who would otherwise not be doing any physical activity.

Get a Confidence Boost

Even for those who historically haven’t been athletic, pickleball is a great entry-level sport anyone can become good at. There’s much to be said for the confidence that physical activity, accomplishment, and pride (especially when you’re on the winning team!) can do for your confidence.

It’s Good for a Laugh

Pickleball is a very social sport, and most people who play would probably agree that this is one of the things they most love about this sport. Although you can play “singles” (a.k.a. one-on-one), games are often played as “doubles”, where you and a partner compete against another team of two. Inevitably, you’ll get a good laugh. Laughing isn’t just good for your mental and emotional health – it’s “good for the soul.”

Your Relationships Will Grow

There’s something about spending time together and competing on a pickleball court that fosters mutual respect among players in the game. It’s a great way to get to know someone in a setting that’s typically lighthearted (unless, of course, you’re competing in a tournament).

It’s Fun for All Ages

Another truly great thing pickleball has going for it is that it’s a sports activity that different generations can play together. In this world of generational divides, especially when it comes to technology-driven activities, pickleball is simple fun that brings people of all ages together.

As always, engaging in any sporting activity is not without risk. Talk to your doctor before starting and find out if playing pickleball is right for you. As part of John Knox Village’s impressive array of amenities, its Aquatic Complex is home to covered pickleball courts adjacent to two sparkling pools and a Poolside Pub.

Want to learn more about what John Knox Village has to offer? Contact us today to take a tour, or for a no-pressure conversation with one of our Life Plan Consultants.

JKV Once Again Receives Distinguished ‘Best in Wellness’ Awards

January 11, 2024/in Blog, News

John Knox Village of Florida in Pompano Beach is thrilled to announce that it has been honored with the 2023 ICAA NuStep Pinnacle and Beacon Awards, solidifying its position among the Top 5 and Top 25 ‘Best in Wellness’ senior living communities in North America. JKV has been recognized annually with these awards since 2019. Once again, the acknowledgments underscore John Knox Village’s commitment to fostering a wellness-centered culture that benefits all residents and staff within the community.

The ICAA NuStep Pinnacle Award and Beacon Award are a joint initiative between the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA), an organization at the forefront of leading, connecting, and defining the active-aging industry, and NuStep, LLC, a prominent manufacturer of recumbent cross-trainers widely used in healthcare, senior living, and fitness.

Colin Milner, CEO, and founder of the ICAA, emphasizes the evolving importance of wellness in senior living communities. Milner states, “Wellness has evolved from being a programming option to becoming a way of life. And these communities are setting the pace for the rest of the industry to follow.”

According to Jamisyn Becker, JKV’s Director of Marketing & Innovation, “At John Knox Village, we prioritize programming that embraces wellness as its key focus to nurture physical vitality and maintain a culture of connection. By prioritizing holistic well-being, we cultivate not just healthier bodies but also stronger bonds, fostering a community where every individual thrives.”

As the older adult population continues to grow and individuals seek a better, longer life, the significance of where one chooses to live becomes increasingly essential. John Knox Village inspires the industry, leading the way with its comprehensive wellness culture.

About NuStep, LLC

Visit: https://www.nustep.com/

NuStep, LLC designs, manufactures and distributes recumbent cross-trainer exercise equipment. NuStep products empower users of all functional abilities and fitness levels to engage in exercise that builds strength, enhances independence, and improves health outcomes. NuStep sponsored the Pinnacle and Beacon Awards recognizing senior communities and centers transforming lives through whole-person wellness programming.

About the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA)

Visit: https://www.icaa.cc/

ICAA leads, connects, and defines the active-aging industry, supporting professionals in developing wellness cultures for adults over 50. The association focuses on active aging, helping older adults live life as fully as possible within all dimensions of wellness.

For more information or questions, contact:

Colin Milner, CEO, ICAA

Toll-free: 1-866-335-9777 (North America); Telephone: 604-734-4466; cell: 604-763-4595

A Sign of the Times: JKV’s Iconic Clock Goes Digital

December 20, 2023/in Blog, General, News

The iconic red-neon John Knox Village name and clock that faced Interstate 95 from the west side of JKV’s 17-story Cassels Tower apartment building has been taken down after 35 years.

It has been replaced with a glitzy, new, high-tech LED (Light-Emitting Diode) projecting sign, with features including full-colored lighting and programmable customized messaging.

What began in 1988 as an advertising gimmick, which allowed commuters to know exactly how early, on time, or late they were for work or dinner, quickly became a beacon quite literally, as it could be seen from a mile away.

“We’re hoping to create a new landmark,” Bob Milanovich, JKV director of resident relations, told the Miami Herald in an article that ran 35 years ago. “You have 50 million people passing by every year.”

That was then. Now, according to the website AARoads.com, the traffic volume on I-95 in Broward County generally exceeds 200,000 vehicles daily, which translates into some 73 million vehicles annually.

The old clock was the size of a Mazda Miata, standing 10 feet wide, with a four-foot-long big hand and a three-foot-long little hand. The idea to put a clock on the side of Cassels Tower came from Village resident Arleen Ridenour, who also contributed a sizable amount to the $15,000 price tag.

“It really was quite a visionary marketing idea from Ms. Ridenour back in the day,” said Jamisyn Becker, JKV’s current Director of Marketing and Innovation. “And now, with this state-of-the-art digital clock and sign, we are able to utilize the newest technologies available for providing the time of day and purposeful information about JKV to millions of folks traveling the Interstate.”

The old clock’s red neon has been replaced with LED lighting, has been refurbished, and will be installed on the east side of Cassels Tower to be seen by residents, guests, and staff throughout the campus.

“The clock has served us well over the years, and we are delighted we were able to repurpose it for the other side of the Cassels Tower building for all to enjoy,” said Thom Price, JKV’s Vice President of Operations.

Festive Feast for the Holidays

December 14, 2023/in Blog

Please post pictures of your dishes on Facebook and tag us @johnknoxvillage. Let’s create a virtual feast and spread the joy of the holidays with our extended online community.

Holiday Cheese Gougères

This is a simple holiday appetizer, great to snack on just before dinner, and goes very well with a glass of Champagne.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup water
1/2 cup milk
4 ounces unsalted butter
pinch of salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (and a little more to sprinkle on top)
ground black pepper
a pinch of nutmeg

Combine the water, milk, butter, and salt and boil.

Add the flour and stir with a spoon until a smooth dough forms. Stir over low heat until it dries out and pulls away from the side of the pan.

Scrape the dough into a bowl. Let cool for 3 minutes.

It is time now to incorporate the eggs (ONE BY ONE). This is very important. Add the first egg and mix it into the dough. At first, the mix may look gooey, but keep mixing until the dough forms again. Add the second egg and repeat the process until all the eggs have been incorporated.

Add the cheese, the pepper, and the nutmeg.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper on it.

Put the dough into a pastry bag with a ½ inch round tip and pipe tablespoon-size mounds onto the baking sheet, 2 inches apart. Sprinkle the cheese and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown…Enjoy!

Mashed Potato Casserole

Sharalyn has lived at JKV since 2015. “Harry bought in for me as a wedding gift when we married in March of 2015. I was still working & lived downtown Fort Lauderdale. We went between my townhouse and JKV. I sold my townhouse of 23 years in November 2023 and became a full-time resident at JKV on November 13th with too many boxes, plastic tubs, furniture, clothes, and my cat. I love it!!”

Ingredients:

8 Russet, Idaho or Yukon Gold potatoes
1 cup sour cream
1 8 oz. package of cream cheese (softened)
2 Tablespoons of fresh chives
garlic salt to taste
white pepper to taste
3 Tablespoons melted butter

Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut into quarters and boil in water until soft. Drain the potatoes. Add the potatoes to a mixing bowl. Mash the potatoes using a mixer while slowly adding the cream cheese and sour cream. Season to taste with the garlic, salt and pepper.

Oil a medium rectangular casserole. Spread the potato mixture evenly. Drizzle with the melted butter and a sprinkle of paprika.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

It may be made up to 3 days in advance and refrigerated.

It freezes well too, if you have any leftovers. Doubtful you will!

Enjoy!

Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

Yael has worked at JKV for over five years in various roles, from orchestrating activities to managing Google Ads. However, her true standout skills lie in the kitchen, where she’s renowned as the go-to expert baker!

Ingredients:

2 cups sugar
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened baking cocoa
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup strong black coffee or 2 tsp espresso powder or instant coffee granules dissolved in 1 cup boiling water, slightly cooled
1 cup buttermilk or sour milk (1 Tablespoon white vinegar plus enough milk to equal 1 cup)
½ cup vegetable or canola oil
1 teaspoon vanilla

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line two standard-sized muffin pans with red or holiday-festive paper cupcake liners.

Blend sugar, flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl or stand mixer on low speed.

Add eggs, coffee, buttermilk, oil and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. The batter will be thin.

Fill lined muffin cups ⅔ to ¾ of the way full. Leave room for rising. Bake 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool for 10-15 minutes. Remove from muffin pans and cool on a wire rack.

While the cupcakes are cooling, clean out the mixer bowl and prepare the frosting:

Vanilla Frosting

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered confectioner’s sugar
1 tsp vanilla
Pinch of salt
2 – 4 Tbsp milk

Combine butter, salt, and vanilla with an electric mixer in the mixer or a large bowl. Mix on medium speed until the butter mixture is fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Turning the mixer off between each addition, add about a half cup of powdered sugar at a time, starting on low speed and increasing to medium speed once all the sugar has been incorporated.

Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, while the mixer runs until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

For decorating your Hot Cocoa Cupcakes, you will also need:

Mini marshmallows (approximately 75)

Mini semi-sweet chocolate chips, approximately ⅓ cup

24 small mini candy canes, plus 10-12, crushed

Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost each cupcake and turn it into a “mug” by hooking one small candy cane into the top along one of the edges. Place three mini marshmallows into the frosting, and sprinkle mini chocolate chips and crushed candy cane pieces over the top.

Makes 24-26 cupcakes.

Pro tip:

Feel free to frost the cupcakes using a butter knife, but for a true “whipped cream” look, use a pastry bag and a large star tip and squeeze frosting from the outer edges inward towards the center.

Top 6 Holiday Scams & How Seniors Can Protect Themselves

November 28, 2023/in Blog

With the busy holiday season already upon us, it’s usually a joyous time to celebrate the festivities with friends and family, full of goodwill, giving, and cheer. Sadly, it’s also prime time for crooks and scammers to target consumers, and senior citizens often unwittingly open the door to being scammed.

According to the AARP, in 2022, three-quarters of consumers experienced or were targeted by at least one form of fraud. In 2021, Americans lost over $6.9 billion to fraudsters, including those that can be tied to the holidays, with requests from fake charities, holiday shopping, booking holiday travel, fraudulent communications about shipping problems, and more. Furthermore, scammers take advantage of the holiday season to zero in on seniors.

Here are the Top 6 most common holiday scams and more importantly, helpful solutions to protect yourself and your loved ones:

1. Fake Charities

Scammers take advantage of people’s generosity during the holiday season and create fake charities, GoFundMe campaigns and other charitable activities.

Warning Signs: Be cautious of hard-sell tactics or vague language. Charities should never threaten, and donors should always be able to see exactly where the money goes.

Solutions: Do your research before giving through Always check the URL and charity name before donating. The same applies to GoFundMe campaigns. Be sure to check your sources!

2. Gift Card Scams & Empty Gift Cards

Scammers love gift cards because they are almost impossible to trace. Many holiday scams involve buying and selling fraudulent gift cards. Scammers will often impersonate a bank or government agency and will try to trick consumers into giving up the numbers on the back of the card.

Warning Signs: Make sure gift cards have not been tampered with. Check the back and see if the PIN has been exposed. Always get a receipt. Whenever possible, purchase the gift card physically at the store. Apart from a Visa or Mastercard gift card, the purchase of a gift card should never ask you to pay for an “activation fee.”

Solutions: Use the gift card only at the store or website it was purchased from. If anyone charges “fees” or implies they “protect your money,” it is likely a scam.

3. Grandparent Scams – Fraudsters “Phishing” as Family Members

Scammers text, email and make phone calls posing as a grandchild in trouble and ask for money, usually through wire transfers or gift cards. According to the FBI, elder fraud costs victims $3-4 billion in losses each year.

Warning Signs: The posing family member asks this transaction to be a secret. The message sounds strange. When in doubt, trust your gut and call the family member directly.

Solutions: Educate yourself on common scams and how to spot them. Use a known phone number to contact the family member or friend claiming to be in trouble. Do not send money or share your credit or debit card details with anyone you do not know or trust. Be cautious and avoid acting immediately, regardless of the situation.

4. Fraudulent Emails or Texts from Trusted Companies

Phishing/fraudulent emails pose as companies or government agencies the public trusts. During the holiday season, scammers send phishing messages claiming to be from companies like Amazon or Apple that offer exclusive discounts or, worse, claim that your account has been hacked. Scammers will send messages offering “free gifts” in return for sensitive information.

Warning Signs: Be skeptical about unsolicited messages regarding special offers or prizes. Any unrequested email or text message should be treated with caution. Also, be wary if the message includes a link. Phishing scams try to direct users to a fake website or infect your device with malware. Other signs of phishing include strange spelling, grammatical errors, and formatting issues.

Solutions: Ignore messages and texts from people you do not know. If in doubt, contact the company directly and ask if the message is legitimate.

5. Missed Delivery Notification Scam Texts

It’s common to be waiting on packages and deliveries during the holiday season. One recent scam involves fraudsters sending fake delivery notification text messages, in hopes that the user will click on the link. These scam texts lead to a fake website designed to either steal personal information, ask for a credit card number, or ask to send money directly to the scammer. According to Reddit, fraudsters create fake websites that look like the UPS site to steal information.

Warning Signs: FedEx, UPS, and other delivery companies will not ask for a credit card or social security number to “find” the delivery. Take note if a link in the text takes the user to a site that is not on the official UPS, USPS, or FedEx domains — for example, an “IPS” fake logo that looks just like the “UPS” logo. If in doubt, go directly to UPS.com, FedEx.com and USPS.com websites. All other variations of these domains are likely to be scams.

Solutions: Track deliveries through the official shipper website using the tracking number provided only. Make sure to visit that website directly; do not use the link provided in a text or email.

6. Holiday Travel and Online Airfare Scams

With holiday travel back in full swing, many people are looking for cheap airline tickets for the holiday season. Scammers target travelers with schemes ranging from bogus flight-booking websites to fraudulent flight cancellation emails and sudden price increases.

Warning Signs: A website or online marketplace is offering airline tickets to popular destinations at deep discounts. Scammers tout huge deals while trying to get users to suspend suspicions. Or a scammer may contact the user directly to ask to pay extra for a flight or are told the flight has been canceled and more money is needed to rebook it.

Solutions: Always purchase airline tickets directly from the airline or through a reputable third-party seller that has customer service like Expedia.com, Travelocity.com, Kayak.com or Priceline.com. If you receive any messages about your trip, contact the airline directly to make sure the message is legitimate.

As always, it’s safe to work with a reputable travel agent to ensure travel availability and pricing from an expert in their field.

Lastly, as a general precaution for added protection against fraud, consider an identity theft protection service. See Consumer Voice.org for some suggestions.

As we revel in the joyous holiday season, it’s essential for seniors to remain vigilant against potential scams. Protecting yourself from scams is a crucial aspect of making the most of the season with friends and family. Even with the multitude of holiday festivities we hope you will enjoy at John Knox Village, or wherever you celebrate, stay alert and secure, to ensure a happy and scam-free holiday for all.

From the popular Halloween Happy Hour and Pet Costume Contest to the all-day Thanksgiving Feast, from Christmas and Hanukkah celebrations to the annual New Year’s Eve bash, residents never run out of options to enjoy a joyous holiday season at John Knox Village.

Keeping our residents on top of their “tech” game through classes and one-on-one assistance, JKV Technology Coordinator Jason Cook helps residents improve their tech-savviness, troubleshoot any technology questions, and make the most of mobile and technology-based devices. Having our own in-house Technology expert is just one of the many “extras “John Knox Village offers that sets it apart.

If you want to learn more about what JKV has to offer, contact us for a no-pressure conversation or a tour.