By Donna Long

Did you just retire? Are you getting ready to do so and worried that you will have nothing to do or worse, feel inconsequential? Have you considered a volunteer vacation? Not familiar with the term volunteer vacation? It is not the ability to take a vacation without being told to do so. A volunteer vacation is when you give of your time, knowledge, and experience to offer aid to communities around the world in need.

Maybe you want to help but don’t think you have the experience for the project calling to your heart. Don’t worry. In many cases, there is some in-the-field training and support. Numerous programs and companies organize volunteer vacation packages that cater to various groups of people and a range of volunteer interests and locations. This article will focus on people over 50 who want to positively impact communities around the world.

To read more, pick up a copy of the September/October issue of LiveIt magazine. To subscribe, call 940-872-2076.

By Donna Long

Located a mere hour from Dallas is a destination that can transport you from the hustle and bustle of city life to the serenity of a Tuscan-style vineyard. Fortunata Winery is a perfect escape on the outskirts of the DFW metroplex.

What started as a hobby for Dr. Kelby Trusty turned into a passion that pays. Dr. Trusty took classes at Grayson County College learning how to create wine. Shari Trusty, who was born with a green thumb, turned her attention to learning how to grow grapes that would flourish in Texas’ particular growing conditions.

Dr. Trusty and his wife Shari purchased a plot of property as an investment, not necessarily considering that it would turn into the vineyard it is today. After a time, they saw that the parcel of land they fell in love with was also the perfect location to give the Trusty’s passions a home.

To read more, pick up a copy of the July/August issue of LiveIt magazine. To subscribe, call 940-872-2076.

By Donna Long

Comanche, Texas was home to the first Texas drive-in which was opened in 1921 by Claude Caver. Movie goers parked bumper to bumper to watch ‘silent films’ from their cars. As movies transitioned from silent films to ‘speaking’ films the use of speakers and radios on towers and placed behind the movie screen became popular.

As time went by and theaters with cushy seats, massive screens, and expansive indoor concession stands were built, interest in ‘the outdoor’ movie experience waned. Most of the drive-in movie theaters closed and those that managed to remain open became known as ‘retro’ or ‘vintage,’ drawing the boomer crowd.

To read more, pick up a copy of the May/June issue of LiveIt magazine. To subscribe, call 940-872-2076.