JANUARY 2018
COMPLIMENTARY
®
Serving Others:
In God’s Word 2018
Taziki’s Keith Richards ®
O u r M i s s ion Bay Area Christian Family ® exists to provide Christians and the community at large with ways to grow and develop as a part of the Bay Area’s Christian Family. The local publication is designed to promote positive living by sharing with readers the latest news on entertainment, healthy living, parenting and inspirational literature as well as what individuals and organizations are doing to try to address the needs of the family.
In association with
Publisher/Editor: Melissa K. McElroy, bayareachristianfamily@mchsi.com (251)680-8589 Bay Area Christian Family Contributing Writers: Judy Woodward Bates Dr. Randy Lane Bunch Tony Cooper John Croyle Jason Greene Chef Lucy Greer David J. Maloney
Mark’s Outdoors Dr. Roger Parrott Janet R. Pittman Camille Smith Platt Dave Ramsey Barbara Tako
Art Director: Hope Chastain, HbcDesigns Sales and Marketing: Melissa McElroy, Will McElroy Cover: Courtesy Taziki’s Bay Area Christian Family s published monthly in Mobile & Baldwin counties by MKM Publishing Inc., 8320 Goldmine Oaks Drive E, Mobile, AL 36619. The phone number is 251-680-8589. Reproduction of any part of Bay Area Christian Family without permission of the publisher is prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of information, products or services. Views expressed in Bay Area Christian Family do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Every effort has been made by Bay Area Christian Family staff to insure accuracy of the publication contents. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information nor the absence of errors and omissions; hence, no responsibility can be or is assumed. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2018 by MKM Publishing Inc. Unless otherwise noted, scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of International Bible Society. Circulation & Distribution: 10,000 copies of Bay Area Christian Family are printed each month. Bay Area Christian Family is free and available at targeted high traffic locations in Mobile and Baldwin counties. Copies are also available by mail, $25 for one year. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Bay Area Christian Family, 8320 Goldmine Oaks Drive E, Mobile, AL 36619
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F rom
th e
P u bli s h e r
OUT with the OLD IN with the NEW!
The holiday season is behind us and all of the decorations are tucked away. Families are getting back into their normal routines and have a renewed outlook on the New Year and the joys it will bring. It is time to store away the old and prepare for the new things life will bring you in 2018. I encourage you to take a moment and make a “bucket list” of all the wonderful things you wish to accomplish in 2018. Place that list in a visible spot where you are reminded daily and can check each item off once you have completed it. No list can be too short or too long! Many of you will vow to keep those New Year’s resolutions; others will allow them to fade away throughout the year. As Christians, there is one resolution we should keep year round and that is to live a Christ-like life everyday. Start each day on your knees thanking God for all of the wonderful things He has blessed you with and jump-start that day with devotional time. Be gracious and kind to everyone and be grateful for all that God bestows upon us. My challenge to you for 2018 is to live each day to its fullest and create memories that will last forever. “Out with the Old, In with the New”...a
A bout
th e
simple phrase that encourages all of us to focus on the gifts and talents that God blessed us with and replace those old habits with new ones. I pray that you will enjoy reading Bay Area Christian Family each month throughout 2018 and share your copy with family and friends. I wish you a Happy & Healthy New Year Blessings,
Melissa K. McElroy BayAreaChristianFamily@mchsi.com
P u bli s h e r
Melissa K. McElroy, President of MKM Publishing, Inc. resides in Mobile, Alabama and owns Bay Area Christian Family publications. She has been married to her high-school sweetheart, Will, for 26 years and they have two children, Grant age 20 and Anna age 18. Melissa received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations & Marketing at the University of South Alabama in 1994.
Her husband, Cpt. William C. McElroy, Jr., has served over 26 years in the US Army and is currently employed with CPSI. They are active members of Spring Hill Baptist Church in Mobile. For more information on Bay Area Christian Family, contact Melissa at (251) 680-8589 or BayAreaChristianFamily@mchsi.com.
Melissa has more than 19 years of advertising experience with Mobile Bay Monthly, “I Do…” for Alabama Brides and AutoTrader.com.
January 2018 3
4 Bay Area Christian Family
www.BayAreaChristianFamily.com
January 2018 DEPARTMENTS
Contents
Volume 9, Number 6
3 From the Publisher • Out with the Old, In with the New 6 Education Extra • College Choice: Essential Questions for Christians
ON THE COVER 14 20 years ago, Keith Richards opened his first Taziki’s restaurant location. Today Taziki’s serves guests here in Mobile as well as in 80 plus other locations in 17 states. Richards shares how the faith of he and his wife as well as his parents have influenced the way they do business and serve others, particularly in their home state of Alabama. See Page 14. 19 In God’s Word 2018
8 Bargainomics • Start Saving 8 Potluck • Heather Brown’s Apple Pie Cookies 11 Money Matters • Dave Says 12 Hassle Free Zone • Simplify Your New Year’s Resolutions to Accomplish More 16 The Great Outdoors • Resolve to Spend More Time Outdoors in 2018
19
17 Senior Scene • How to Age Successfully 18 Healthy Living • 1 on 1 with Jason Greene: The Exercise Stability Ball Jack Knife 20,23 Mission Makers • Gracious Housing & the Hope of Christ: Red Mountain Grace • 2018: Opportunity to Invest in Saving Lives
SPECIAL FEATURES 10 Caffine Corps 19 Time with God in 2018: A Fruitful Connection
NEXT ISSUE HGTV & DIY Yard Crasher’s, & MUCH MORE!
21 Legal Matters • Should I Handle My Car Crash Claim By Myself Or Hire A Lawyer? 22 Encouraging Word • Faith in Action 22 Bringing Out the Winner in Your Child • You in 2018: What are Your Priorities
12
24 Coloring Page 25 Calendar 26 Ad Directory
8 January 2018 5
E duc ation E x tr a
College Choice: Essential Questions for Christians The intense competition for recruiting university students has masked the reality of ever-worsening diluted and polluted values in higher education. The unfortunate result of not knowing the real story is that far too many smart Christians have been duped into making dumb college decisions. Students and families are fooled by name-brand marketing campaigns, as well as the glamor of campus amenities and prestige rankings. Or, too often, Christian families buy the naïve assumption that any school will do, as long as you attend a good Bible study or church near-by. I’m deeply concerned that smart Christian families are being swayed to follow culture’s value of higher education – Size, Sports, Status, and Sizzle – rather than the Godly criteria that would help students find the school that best matches their needs. In contrast, at Belhaven University, our focus is Character, Curriculum, Caring, and Christ.
The typical criteria of college selection are highly inadequate for Christian families to make a well-informed university decision: 1. Most families reference US News rankings, but don’t realize those scores are skewed in favor of the type of institutions the editors attended. 2. All students study the quality of academic programs, but forget to examine as carefully the character of the individual who does the teaching, as well as the curriculum that guides the learning. 3. Some parents urge students to consider enrolling where they attended a quarter-century ago, but don’t realize that while the university campus may look the same on the outside, the worldview in the classroom has dramatically shifted. 4. Research tells us too many students make their decision within seven-minutes after they get out of the car for a campus tour, thus, deciding on the appearance of the campus. 5. Often families base this direction-shaping decision on money. And while that is an important factor, this critical juncture of life is too important to be guided only by the prospect of saving money in the short-term. While the attractiveness of size, sports, status, and sizzle may appear enticing, Christian families need to weigh the alarming realities of both campus-life
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6 Bay Area Christian Family
and classroom-life at flagship universities before making their decision about which school to attend. Character, curriculum, caring, and Christ won’t be featured on ESPN’s College Game Day, but they will be the priorities giving lasting significance to a university education that effectively prepares students for a life of service and meaning. I have awarded over 10,000 diplomas during my years as a university president and have worked with thousands of families making this critical decision. Learning from their experience, I’ve written a paper outlining better criterion for selecting a school, and I’d like to email a copy of it to you if you’re interested in knowing more: president@ Belhaven.edu — Dr. Roger Parrott President, Belhaven University, www.Belhaven.edu Dr. Roger Parrott is in his 20th year as President of Belhaven University. He is a third-generation College president, and was one of America’s youngest college presidents first elected at age 34. He earned his Ph.D. from the Univ. of Maryland in Higher Education Administration.
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B argai nom ic $
P otluck
Start Saving
Heather Brown’s Apple Pie Cookies
If you haven’t already set up an IRA or some other type of retirement plan, now’s the time to do it. The younger you are, the less you’ll need to tuck away to end up with an impressive amount whenever you reach retirement. For example, at age 25, if you started putting $405 a month into savings with an average return of about seven percent, you’d have a cool million at age 65. Wait until you’re 30 and it’d take $585 a month to achieve the same thing.
The important thing is to save. Every family needs an emergency fund and that should contain enough money to cover all their expenses for at least six months. Work toward this goal and then, once accomplished, label that money untouchable unless an absolute emergency arises.
Shop Year-Round
While shopping doesn’t seem to go with saving, it can if you do it the right way. Make yourself an occasions list – a list of everyone you plan to buy gifts for all year long. Out beside each name, write info such as birth dates, sizes, etc. As you shop throughout the year, look for deals on items for the people on your list. Each time you make a purchase, write the item beside the recipient’s name. And be sure and label the shopping bag with the recipient’s name before you tuck that gift away in your designated gift closet. By spreading the expense throughout the year and shopping ahead for bargains, most people tell me they cut their gift expenses by 75 percent or more while giving nicer gifts than before they began using an occasions list.
Closing Thoughts.
“Owe nothing to anyone – except for your obligation to love one another” (Romans 13:8, NLT). Christians are to set a good example in their attitudes, actions, and finances. So is it a sin to owe? No, it’s a sin to owe and not pay. Whatever you owe, pay it and do so in a timely manner. And make it your goal to pay off old debts and avoid new ones. — Judy Woodward Bates Want Judy to speak to your church, civic organization, or ladies’ group? You can contact her and follow her on her website, www. Bargainomics.com, as well as Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.
8 Bay Area Christian Family
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 teaspoon baking soda ¾ teaspoon cinnamon ¾ teaspoon salt pinch of nutmeg ¾ cup (1-1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened ¾ cup packed light brown sugar ¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 cup apple pie filling, cut up apples ICING: 1 cup confectioners powdered sugar 1 tablespoon milk ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract Cinnamon for sprinkling
Preparation
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking soda, cinnamon, salt and nutmeg. Set aside. In a stand mixer, beat butter and both sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add in egg and vanilla extract, scrapping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Add flour mixture, mixing until completely combined. Stir in apple pie filling until evenly distributed. (You can do this by hand or with the stand mixer.) Using a large cookie scoop (about 1 heaping tablespoon of dough), drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared cookie sheet. Leaving space for spreading. Bake cookies for 13-15 minutes, or until golden brown at edges. The cookies will not look fully cooked in the center, but they will finish cooking while cooling on cookie sheet. For icing: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle on top of cooled cookies. Sprinkle with cinnamon. Let icing set for 10 minutes, or until firm. — Chef Lucy Greer Greer’s Market & Catering
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January 2018 9
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10 Bay Area Christian Family
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M on ey M atte r s
Dave Says
Dear Dave, My father-in-law started a business as an LLC few years ago. He named all his daughters owners, with him owning the majority share. The business failed, and now he is being sued by creditors. He told the family these creditors can’t come after us and the other siblings, because he is the majority owner. Is this true, or should we get a lawyer? — Caleb Dear Caleb, Your wife is probably not in danger, unless she signed paperwork making her liable for a loan or liable with a creditor. If she signed official, legal paperwork – like if she went down to the bank and signed on a loan – then she’s liable. It’s that simple. That would make her, or any of her siblings who did this, co-makers on the loan. Your wife, and any of her sisters, who signed on trade accounts taking supplies from a supplier and paying them could also be liable. But they are not automatically liable simply because they were listed as minority owners in an LLC, or even a sub-S corporation. If it were a general partnership, there’s a possibility they could be liable. That’s one of the reasons I hate general partnerships. I hate partnerships in general, but I hate general partnerships, too! In other words, I think you’re okay. I would still advise speaking with an attorney, and giving him or her all the details of this situation, to be absolutely certain. — Dave Ramsey
Dear Dave, My wife and I both lost our jobs a few weeks ago. She began a training course for a new job last week, and I’ve been interviewing. We cashed in an annuity the other day because things have been tight, and we were wondering if we should use it to help continue paying down debt, or simply live on it until things get better. — Vernon Dear Vernon, You need to be honorable and pay your debts, but that may have to be put on hold for a while. Right now, it’s more important to have food in the house and keep the heat on. If you haven’t done so already, contact your creditors and explain the situation. Let them know you’ll make things right with them as soon as possible. I know this is a scary situation, especially around the holidays, so make sure you two pull together and keep the lines of communication wide open. A few extra hugs wouldn’t hurt, either. The good news is it sounds like things may be looking up. Support your wife all you can in her new job, and make sure you continue looking for work, too. A little extra money is better than none, so take on something part-time while you’re looking for a permanent position. God bless you two! — Dave Ramsey
Dave Ramsey is CEO of Ramsey Solutions. He has authored seven best-selling books, including The Total Money Makeover. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 12 million listeners each week on 575 radio stations and multiple digital platforms. Follow Dave on the web at daveramsey.com and on Twitter at @DaveRamsey.
Home Staging & Seasonal Styling Home Staging Staging & Seasonal Styling by Melissa McElroy Home & Seasonal Styling by Melissa McElroy by Melissa McElroy
Home Staging & Seasonal Styling Organizing ~ Rearranging Furniture ~ Accessory Selections & More ~ Seasonal Styling Organizing ~ Rearranging Furniture ~ Accessory & More ~ Seasonal Styling ~ Home Staging (New Selections Look/Selling) Home Staging (New Look/Selling) Organizing ~ Rearranging~ Furniture ~ Accessory Selections & More ~ Seasonal Styling byStaging Melissa McElroy Home (New Look/Selling) Call Today ~ for Consultations & Bookings, (251) 680-8589 Call Today for Consultations & Bookings, (251) 680-8589 References Upon Request
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H as s le F r ee Z on e
Simplify Your New Year’s Resolutions to Accomplish More Have you already broken your New Year’s resolutions for 2017? After the holiday goodies, did your resolution to lose weight find you standing at the refrigerator door, tired, hungry and ready to graze, by early afternoon on New Year’s Day? There is a better way to make your New Year’s resolutions work. Maybe “better” isn’t quite the right word. There is a simpler and more effective way. Try KISS— “keep it simple, silly.” Use these next three thoughts to help make your resolutions happen. First, don’t try to fix your whole life all at once. Instead, stare the American Dream to “have it all” in the face and say “not so fast.” It isn’t helpful to shoot for working on everything and then wind up accomplishing nothing. Another year goes by and you could find yourself in the same place you were a year ago. Instead of a dozen good intentions, focus on one or two resolutions that are really important to you. Doing this will help you to stop repeating the same well-intentioned resolutions year after year. Wouldn’t it be nice to get them done and get on with the rest of your life? Let’s say that I would like to address my health, and my personal development goal areas. I am seriously unhappy with my weight right now. In a different goal area, it sometimes frustrates me that I claim to value personal development but rarely make the time to do it. Next, carefully design your resolutions into goals. Make them specific, measurable, and achievable. If I resolve to lose weight or to spend more time on personal development, I will only get there by being very clear about how it will happen. Better resolutions for me might be: I will lose fifteen pounds by June 1st, and I will take a personal retreat this year. It will be easier to track and achieve success if I am specific about what I have to do to accomplish my resolutions. When a goal is very specific, it is very measurable. For my goals, I can stand on a scale and I can look in my calendar to see what, if any, personal development activities are scheduled. Create goals that can be measured as you make progress. Achievable is important too. Don’t set unrealistic goals. Finally, make resolutions that excite you! If you aren’t thrilled or motivated to accomplish these resolutions, why bother? Pick resolutions that you feel enthusiastic about. For example, I would love to take a break from my regular routine and take a weekend retreat. Work on resolutions that are your passion. Many people find that following their passion is part of a joyful and more peaceful life. Don’t you feel more fulfilled when you spend time working on what you truly love? If your New Year’s resolutions are simple—limited to one or two, clearly defined, and personally exciting, you have a great shot at making them happen. After you get them done, you can then pick something new for the following year. God Bless and have a joyous new year! — Barbara Tako Barbara is a clutter clearing motivational speaker and author of Clutter Clearing Choices: Clear Clutter, Organize Your Home, & Reclaim Your Life (O Books, 2010), a seasonally organized book of clutter clearing tips that readers can pick and choose from to fit their personal style and needs. She also is a breast cancer and melanoma survivor who wrote Cancer Survivorship Coping Tools—We’ll get you through this. Sign up for her free monthly clutter clearing tips newsletter at http://www.clutterclearingchoices.com.
12 Bay Area Christian Family
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R E S I Z I N G A N D C U S TO M I Z I N G I N S T R U C T I O N S A clear zone of 1/2 the height of the logo must be maintained as shown below. No text or graphic elements can appear in this clear zone. Logo and tagline may not be stretched or manipulated in any way.
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Each restaurant independently owned and operated. © 2013 Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc. “Zaxby’s” and “Zalads” are registered trademarks of Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc.
January 2018 13
Jesus, Others and Yourself:
Taziki’s Keith Richards
A
fter a vacation to Greece in 1997, Keith Richards was inspired to recreate the same richness of community he experienced there in his home town of Birmingham, Ala. Opening his first Taziki’s restaurant in 1998 was a leap of faith quickly bolstered by the idea of giving back. Now with locations in 17 different states, Richards reflects on how his Christian upbringing contributed to his drive to succeed and his commitment to employing and inspiring special needs teens and young adults in the communities he serves. Growing Up in Alabama. An alumnus of Green Acres Elementary, Charles A. Brown Middle School, and Midfield High School, Richards grew up in Ensley, Ala. and says his strongest memories of childhood involve being outdoors. “Back then, of course, we had no devices that would distract us,” he remembers. “We had an area called The Trails where we rode our bikes and shot BB guns and chased squirrels and went to the Boys and Girls Club. That’s all we did—that and play baseball. Church on Sundays. It’s almost like a country song.” Richards’ family attended Fairview United Methodist Church, and as far back as he can remember, every store in Ensley was closed for Sunday services. “Sunday was the Sabbath, and that was the day we went to Sunday School, went to what we called Big Church, and then at night we would have youth group.” Even on vacations, Richards says his family would find a place to worship. In his teens, Richards worked at Camp Sumatanga, an experience that
14 Bay Area Christian Family
Keith Richards began his restaurant career cooking chicken in a K-Mart kitchen and waiting tables at Olive Garden. Today he serves as Chief Development Officer for Taziki’s, which he founded in 1998 with an original location off Highway 280 in Birmingham, Ala. Photos Courtesy Taziki’s.
strengthened his faith and gave him a taste of servanthood and pointing others to God. “During those impressionable years—16, 17, 18 years old when some teens are starting to wonder—it grounded me even more.” His contributions to the spiritual growth of his campers, he says, was primarily directing them toward the Lord revealed in nature. “Scripture is so important, but my perspective was more of look what God has given us.” Richards’ father, Joe Richards turned 79 this past November, and inside his birthday card Keith Richards wrote, “Thanks for being my hero.” “He’s the one I strive to be like, not only with his faith but with his heart, his goodness,” Richards says, noting that his mother passed away nearly six years ago. “We had a Bible School class at church growing up, and it was the J.O.Y. class. It stands for Jesus, Others and Yourself. That has always stuck with me. I saw my parents live that.” Growing a Business. After jobs at a Kmart cafeteria and Olive Garden followed by a 10-year career at Bottega under award-winning Chef Frank Stitt, Richards and his wife used their home as collateral to build his first Taziki’s location off Highway 280. Richards reflects on how his parents’ example served as inspiration. “My father was a telephone lineman for South Central Bell / BellSouth, and I knew what hard work looked like. It was a leap of faith… We didn’t have the money. There wasn’t an option. We could not fail,” he recalls of Taziki’s beginnings. “Ultimately, however, the challenge was how do we start giving back? That was the first thing to do. How do we get into
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the community to let people know we are here and who we are? Faith has a lot to do with that. You pray for success; sometimes it doesn’t come, sometimes it does, but prayer and hard work is a great combination to reap rewards.”
“They say God works in mysterious ways,” Keith Richard says of he and wife Amy being the parents to two sets of twins, one conceived with the assistance of fertility specialists at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and another conceived naturally. “I think it was just something that God said you’re doing something right in your life, and I’m going to bless you again.” Seen here are Keith, Amy, Oliver (15), Charley (13), Margaux (13), and Maggie (15).
Giving Back. Giving back for Richards started with a chance meeting with Shelby County Schools Job Coach Cindy Vinson while on a cruise vacation. Bored with the band playing one evening on the ship, on a whim Keith offered to stand in as a drummer. An experienced musician, while he jammed on stage, Amy Richards struck up a conversation with Vinson, who was sitting nearby. Vinson asked if Taziki’s would consider employment for students with special needs. The Richards said “Yes,” and since then Taziki’s has been helping local students and young adults with challenges realize their potential, earn a paycheck, relate to peers, and be a part of a team. Richards adds that meaningful employment also meant relief, in a way, for the students’ parents. “Growing up, I wasn’t exposed to the challenges that the parents of children with special needs have. Today, if I can allow that parent 12-15 hours a week to pray, yoga, tennis, whatever their passion is, then I’ll do it.”
Bernard Troncale
students opportunities to practice social skills, learn the value of money, set goals, and follow through with plans. Richards is expanding the program to include at-risk students as well and hopes that in 2018 the program will become a nonprofit organization. He hopes that all of his friends in the restaurant business will consider following his lead in cooking with locally grown herbs. “God has blessed me, and I’ve said a thousand times you have to give back. That’s the plan. That’s God’s plan. And, of course, I don’t do it for extra wing points or any kind of halo points. I do it because that’s the way that my parents raised me.” Richards suggests that choosing to make 2018 a year for giving can be simple. It doesn’t require finding needs to meet worldwide. “In our own backyard, there are people that are hungry, people that don’t know Christ, people that are struggling on a daily basis that we can help,” says Richards. “Find something dear to your heart…what makes your heart flourish?” — Camille Smith Platt
The Richards and Vinson also began the H.O.P.E. (Herbs Offering Personal Enrichment) program in 2012, which purchases herbs for Taziki’s restaurants grown by special needs students at area schools. Being taught how to grow, harvest and sell cilantro, rosemary, thyme, parsley and rosemary gives the l
Russell Campus
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Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children Lowder Building McWane Building Children’s on Third Outpatient Center Children’s Park Place
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January 2018 15
T h e G r eat O utdoor s
The Christmas season has come and gone and now it’s New Year’s Resolution time. I encourage you to set goals for yourself and your family and hopefully make this year even better than the last. As a rule, New Year’s resolutions usually revolve around things like fitness. “Ok, this year I’ll remove all of the clothes hanging on the treadmill that I bought when I made last year’s resolution and promise to use it this year.” Or resolutions related to finance. “This year I will save a little extra cash out of each paycheck and finally taking that vacation I’ve been wanting to go on.” All of that is well and good but are we really taking full advantage of the New Year’s Resolution?
This year consider adding a resolution that involves getting outside and enjoying the great outdoors. Perhaps your outdoor resolution includes getting into or back into hunting. Good news! Your timing is great. You still have until the end of the month to enjoy hunting season and plenty of time to get ready for next fall. Another great outdoor activity available this month is the annual Festival of the Cranes, January 13 - January 14, 2018. This two-day celebration of Sandhill Cranes and Whooping Cranes brings together experienced birders and those who would like to learn more about birding and other wildlife that live in Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge in Decatur (www.friendsofwheelerrefuge.org). Over 12,000 Sandhill Cranes along with several
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pairs of Whooping Cranes spend the winter each year at the Refuge. Enjoy nature walks, live raptors and refuge tours. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring binoculars and a camera. Throughout the event, the enclosed Wildlife Observation Building will offer views of thousands of Sandhill Cranes, along with Whooping Cranes, ducks, geese, raptors, and maybe a bald eagle. There will be bleachers and spotting scopes available along with volunteers and staff members on hand to answer questions. Need more outdoor ideas? Visit us at Mark’s Outdoors to become inspired and to be fully equipped to make the most of your time in God’s great outdoors. We will help make sure that you have everything you need to make your time outside that much more enjoyable. Happy New Year & God Bless! — Mark’s Outdoors, www.marksoutdoors.com
“To Care for Those Who Came Before Us Is One of the Highest Honors.” - Tia Walker
Visit GrandFriends Today!
* Serving Mobile for more than 20 years * Supervised social, recreation and exercise activities for elderly adults * Breakfast, hot lunch and afternoon snacks provided * Located within the Via Health, Fitness & Enrichment Center for Older Adults (Mid-town), giving clients access to a full-range of programs & activities * Staffed by Certified Nursing Assistants and trained Senior Companions * Available 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday * As low as $40 a day!
The GrandFriends program is unique in the fact that is does not require a formal diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or Dementia. GrandFriends Adult Day Services Via Health, Fitness & Enrichment Center 1717 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604 251.470.5228 www.viamobile.org/grandfriends
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S e n ior S ce n e
How to Age Successfully In recognition of this 75th article in The Senior Scene in this Bay Area Christian Family Magazine, let’s recap just what it takes to age successfully as in having a full functioning body and mind, specifically, aging with no dementia/Alzheimer’s. It’s by following, subscribing to 4 Basic Ways or methods. And the first way is we want to create more brain neurons so to keep our thoughts purring and memories instant as well as keep our subconscious actions, like balance and gait, in full function. We stimulate our stem cells to create more neurons through consistent aerobic exercise. With our brain loaded up with new neurons, we have to nurture them and make them connect to other, older neurons else they will wither away and die. How do we connect them? We must have a mental accomplishment, not just one though, tons. Like many a day. From deciding what to plant in the garden and why, what to cook for dinner, strategizing a stock buy or figuring the best formula for the spread sheet you just created is exercising your brain, the second way to age successfully. Reading up on why the battle of Mobile Bay saved the War of 1812 proving a significant factor in US independence only cuts the mustard ½ way. There has to be a purpose for what you learn. Reading ‘just for entertainment’ is not full brain exercise. You have to have a ‘fait accompli’, you must solve a problem. That’s why video brain games, crossword puzzles, romance novels and the like only go so far. The third way we age successfully is to feed the supportive cells that guide and direct our neurons so we can think clearer, have instant memory and continue our train of thought. Consuming processed junk foods, foods laden with preservatives, artificial chemicals and metals used as thickeners, dyes, sugar and hydrogenated omega 6 oils, every meal for years, no matter our age actually but especially when we are nudging into our senior years, is like overwatering our house plants. The plant, like our brain, can absorb the water, or processed foods, but over time, the roots become rotten and the plant eventually dies. So too, through the years your brain becomes over saturated with toxins, chemicals and preservatives causing brain cells to die resulting in Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia. Feed your brain cells all natural foods and if your budget allows organic and non GMO. The forth factor to aging successfully and preventing dementia is synergized when we turn on our emotions, when we have something to sink our teeth into, to give our life purpose and meaning. I call this the 4Cs of Successful aging. Care, Connect, Commit, Concentrate and Sleep (Cs are plural.) Care about ourselves and concentrate on fulfilling actions of daily living, connect with and commit to the purpose of aging with no dementia. When we consistently get good deep 7-8 hours sleep every night we activate our brain’s cleaning and healing system. Aerobically exercise the body, exercise the brain, fill the brain with nutrients from clean all natural foods and prescribe oneself to the 4Cs and you are well on the way to aging successfully with no dementia. And that summarizes the past 75 articles of The Senior Scene. Thank you for following us. For additional details and qualifiers on how to add only years to your life while aging successfully, join us here in the months to come. Also, investigate additional resources in my website www.JanetRichPittman.com. Here’s to your good brain health! — Janet Rich Pittman Dementia Administrator, Practitioner, and Prevention Specialist www.TheBrainNerd.com
January 2018 17
H ealthy L ivi ng presented by: Jason’s Fitness
1 on 1 with Jason S. Greene: The Exercise Stability Ball Jack Knife
Okay I am officially on a Stability/Swiss Ball kick, and for very good reason. In doing research for the first two articles on the subject of Stability Ball exercises I came across an interesting fact. Most studies have concluded that the exercise ball increases electromyographic (EMG) activity of the abdominal muscles more efficiently than exercises performed on a stable surface such as crunches. In England, Dr. Michael Duncan investigated the muscle activation in 2 different parts of the abdominal muscles (the upper and lower portions) during exercise both on and off an exercise ball. The results for the following exercise were amazing. In other words if you were going to perform one exercise to tighten and firm your belly it would be the Stability Ball Jack Knife exercise… and so we begin.
Primary Muscles: Abs, Quadriceps (thighs), Obliques (love handle area) Secondary Muscles: (Synergists/Stabilizers): Deltoids (shoulders), Triceps, Pectorals (chest), Serratus Anterior, Glutes (butt), Abductors & Adductors (inner/outer thigh) Equipment Needed: Swiss/Stability Ball Step 1 Begin in an all-fours position with the core part of your body (torso) resting on the ball and hands and feet on the floor. Tighten your core/abdominals. (Photo-1) Step 2 Once you have tightened your core slowly walk your hands forward until your feet come off the floor. Continue walking out until the fronts of your shins are resting on the top of the ball putting you into a plank position. (Photo-2) It is important to keep a tight rigid core/torso. Your entire body is straight as a board and aligned parallel to the floor. Elbows must be straight and hands directly under your shoulders. Step 3 Curling Phase: Exhale and slowly bend your knees towards your chest. The ball will roll forward as your knees tuck under your torso and your hips lift toward the ceiling. Hold the contraction for a count as you take a breath. (Photo-3) Step 4 Lowering Phase: Inhale and straighten your legs, rolling the ball back the plank position. Pointers: Be sure to avoid arching or sagging your lower back or hiking your hips upin the starting position. Contract your abs, glutes and thighs to maintain a straight line with your body in starting position. MODIFICATION: If you are uncomfortable or feeling unsafe with your hips raised and shins on the ball, simply tuck your knees into your chest without lifting the hips. — Jason S. Greene E-mail your question to Jason@JasonsFitness. com You can see this exercise and many others demonstrated at www.southfit.com! Disclaimer: One on One with Jason aims to provide general fitness and exercise information. Advice offered may not be applicable to all individuals and does not constitute medical, health or scientific fitness advice. People have different needs, abilities and levels of health. It is recommended that all readers consult a medical professional before beginning any form of exercise, participate in any physical fitness or sports training program or undertake any form of health plan, nutrition program, or
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S p ecial F eatu r e When You said, “Seek My face,” My heart said to You, “Your face, Lord, I will seek.” Psalms 27:8 The scriptures, especially the Psalms of David, are replete with references about spending time in communion with God. Most believers don’t have to be persuaded of the importance of a regular, healthy devotional life, but many would admit to an inconsistency in the practice. This is no small oversight. Time with God, in His Word and in prayer, is not merely a quaint practice, but a necessity to living a fruitful life. Jesus said, “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Jesus makes it clear that just as the branch is dependent upon the nourishment from the vine to bear fruit, so too our fruitfulness as believers is dependent upon our connection with Him. The Amplified Bible is even more explicit: “However, apart from Me [cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing” (John 15:5b Amplified Bible, emphasis mine). In Psalm 42:1, David wrote, “As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God.” It’s clear that David put a premium on seeking God. We, on the other hand, live in a society that values industry. In fact, we see being busy as a mark of value and importance. However, as believers it is crucial that we see the distinction between busyness and fruitfulness. The fact is, some of us are too busy to be fruitful. Busyness is activity in response to life’s demands, whether it’s paying bills, running the kids to soccer practice, or doing the grocery shopping. Many of these responsibilities are necessary, of course, but if we think they’re more important than spending time in God’s
presence, we’re sadly mistaken. Busyness will never replace fruitfulness, for fruitfulness only comes from nurturing that vital connection with Christ. The truth is that for most of us, it’s not a matter of not having the time, but of making the time. It’s an issue of priorities. Sometimes for a tree to be fruitful, the extraneous branches have to be trimmed off so the life and vitality of the tree can be redirected to the larger, fruit-bearing branches. The same can be true of us. If we’ll allow God to trim off some of the busyness from our lives and give ourselves to spending time in fellowship with Him, we will see a marked increase in the fruitfulness in our lives. A Bible reading program or a good devotional can be a great help to give us structure, but the primary tool needed to cultivate a good devotional life is a firm dedication to be intentional about giving God the place in our lives that is His due. Join me in making 2018 a year of daily, intentional time with God. I can’t wait to see what He chooses to do through such a fruitful connection! — Dr. Randy Lane Bunch, Church planter, pastor, and adjunct professor at Summit Bible College in Bakersfield, California. Author of several books, including his new devotional, Immutable: Changeless Truth for a Changing World, available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble online, or Apple iBooks. For more information about Randy’s ministry, visit www.randylanebunch.org.
Personal Injuries • Automobile Accidents • Insurance Claims Drunk Driving Victims • Dog Bites • Defective Products
David J. Maloney, Esq.
M AL O NE Y • F R O S T, L LC A T T O R N E Y S
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A T
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W W W. M A L O N E Y - F R O S T. C O M No representation is made that the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of services performed by other lawyers.
January 2018 19
M i s s ion M ake r s
Gracious Housing & the Hope of Christ: Red Mountain Grace
Red Mountain Grace is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing gracious housing to out-of-town patients and caregivers during their extended medical stays in Birmingham. Members of the ministry team include Ashley Weaver/Development Assistant, Debbie Tidwell/Patient Coordinator and Lizzi Wilkerson/ Executive Director. Learn more at www.redmountaingrace.com.
Through volunteers and donors, Red Mountain Grace provides extended housing for families who are receiving critical medical care in Birmingham. “The stress of a diagnosis alone is overwhelming for families,” explains Red Mountain Grace, Executive Director, Lizzi Wilkerson, “But then the added stresses, complications, and expenses of extended travel for patient care often amount to a sense of hopelessness, further complicated by the disconcerting feeling of temporary homelessness.” Wilkerson stresses the ministry meets much more than a physical need. “We are able to not only help these families by relieving them of some of their financial burden, but we are able to meet them in a very difficult place where we can pray over them and give them continued hope.” Volunteers work behind the scenes to make the ministry possible. “They clean and decorate apartments, provide meals for the families, visit them and their loved ones in the hospital weekly, and are continually praying over them,” explains Wilkerson.
Since opening its doors in August of 2013, Red Mountain Grace has welcomed over 200 families. The organization has grown from 2 to 12 apartments, and is looking to expand to 15-20 in 2018. “I see the love of God surrounding these families in some of the hardest moments and I’m thankful that we have the opportunity to love our patients and their families the way we do,” says Wilkerson pointing out that just last year, Red Mountain Grace
Red Mountain Grace in action.
served more than 70 families, but the need is even greater and growing. On average, there is a wait list of 30-40 families nightly seeking lodging that are in Birmingham for medical care. To learn more about Red Mountain Grace and the many ways you can volunteer to help, visit www.redmountaingrace.com.
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L egal M at te r s presented by:
Maloney • Frost, LLC
Should I Handle My Car Crash Claim By Myself Or Hire A Lawyer?
for their case, they need to hire a lawyer who gives them that piece of mind. After all, attorney-client relationships are based on trust, faith and confidence. I work hard everyday to live up to that for my clients, but if they don’t feel it, they are missing out on something.
Although a car crash victim does not have to have a lawyer, it is probably a good idea to at least consult with one. Most injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which is typically a percentage of whatever they recover for their client. Most will offer free consultations and advise if you have a case worth pursuing. In many situations, I may even be able to tell a client by phone if it sounds like they would be better off with or without a lawyer. If a lawyer is qualified and trustworthy, they will have no problem telling you if they feel it is better for you to handle your matter on your own or to have legal representation.
As a general rule with injury cases, I tell people it is most appropriate to hope for the best, but still prepare for the worst. Often, someone will not feel pain immediately after a wreck, but will start to experience symptoms over the next few days. In other cases, pain may become more severe over time. It is for that reason I advise most callers not to accept any quick settlement offers from any insurance adjusters. I cannot count the number of times where people have called me months after settling their claims with an insurance company on their own for a small amount, wanting to try to re-open their claim because they have discovered they have suffered much more serious conditions they didn’t know about earlier. Unfortunately, in most of those cases, it’s too late.
I often advise callers that if they only incurred property damage, have medical expenses under a certain amount or will not require medical treatment beyond just an initial examination and release from care that they may be better off without incurring attorney’s contingency fees; but that they could likely be better off even after paying a contingency fee if they suffered injuries requiring treatment beyond just a medical examination and/or incurred medical expenses beyond a certain amount. It may be even more important to have an attorney represent you where there is a dispute as to who is at fault, there are multiple parties or other victims in the wreck or the insurance company wants to obtain a recorded statement from you before you have the chance to consult with an attorney. It is especially important to be represented in cases where the incident resulted in any permanent injury or death or if there are aggravating circumstances associated with the incident; such as a driver who was drunk, eluding the police, driving reckless, engaged in road rage, one who flees the scene or has otherwise acted in an outrageous manner. Victims who attempt to handle their claim on their own are at a disadvantage. Insurance carriers and their adjusters manage claims all day and every day. They begin working immediately to find ways to reduce the value of your claim to limit what their company has to pay. By having a reputable and skilled personal injury attorney who you trust represent you, you can obtain timely needed advice about what you need to do to protect yourself. With the right attorney, you can obtain advice as to what insurance coverages may be available, how you may be able to obtain the medical treatment you need with or without health insurance and ultimately obtain the proper compensation. In many situations, my clients are hurt, out of work and have medical bills piling up. They may have transportation issues if their car was totaled or in need of significant repair as a result of the wreck. An experienced personal injury lawyer can often provide the necessary guidance for navigating through those difficult times, especially with regard to insurance coverages which might be more immediately available for some of those concerns. Most importantly, if you are looking for a personal injury attorney, I would suggest you pick one you like and have the most confidence in. Although, lawyers are not ethically permitted to represent that the quality of the legal services that they provide is any greater than the quality of legal services provided by other lawyers, attorneys do sometimes boast about results they have obtained from prior clients and the kind of result they believe they can get for you. I personally believe that if someone looking to hire a lawyer, that they should not just look for who says they can get good results; but they should also look for who gives them the time, explanations, answers and peace of mind they need to sleep better at night. After all, if a client does not have full confidence in their attorney, they are missing out on peace of mind and that is an important part of what they are paying for. That is why I tell prospective clients that if they don’t have a peace of mind feeling I am the right lawyer
The decision to hire an attorney as well as which attorney you hire is an important one. Although my law firm advertises a lot, I would be one of the first to tell you that you should not choose a lawyer simply based on advertising. Before hiring a law firm, I would want to meet with an actual lawyer, rather than just an investigator, and get to know the lawyer to make sure you are comfortable with them. After all, if an attorney is too busy to personally speak with you about your case, they might be too busy for your case. — David J. Maloney, Attorney at Law Maloney Frost LLC No legal representation is made that legal services performed are greater than the quality of legal services of other lawyers.
Foreign langu age offered in all grades
ital All dig oks o textb s de a r g in 61% of the -12th h t 4 12 Class of 20 received scholarships re l ca oo t h h c s er- K3-5 Aft or P f
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Mobile Christian School
A Fun, Fa m learning ily Friendly environm ent
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PK3 -5th grade Enr ichment classes: Spanish , Music , Libr ary , and Computer
ementary & of-the-art El bs apel & New StateDaily Ch r La te pu m Co sses Bible Cla High school
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Prepared for College. Prepared for LIFE.
Mobile Christian School For More Information, call 251-661-1613 www.mobilechristian.org
Serving Grades PreK3 - 12 5900 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, AL
January 2018 21
E ncou r ag i ng W or d
B r i ng i ng O ut T h e W i n n e r
Faith In Action in
What is faith? Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now faith is the assurance (substance) of things hoped for, the conviction (evidence) of things not seen.” Faith is the foundation that hope is built on. Hope is the desire for good, accompanied by anticipation and expectation. Hope helps provide meaning to life. The struggles of life can be overwhelming when there is no hope. Hope helps provide the motivation to continue when you feel like giving up. And where there is no faith or faulty faith; hope will be difficult to find. Faith involves, belief, trust, confidence and dependence. Faith is a powerful thing. Faith is the foundation that forms your belief system. Your belief system determines your values and convictions. You use your convictions to help make choices and decisions in life. Your life style (how you live your life) is conditioned by what you believe and the object of your faith. Belief should mean “by life”; in other words, if you don’t live it, then you don’t believe it. Hebrews 11:6 says, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” God needs to be the object of our faith. We must place our faith solely and completely in Him! If we say we believe in God then we need to live like there is a God; knowing that God is real, alive and well- realizing that God is holy, sovereign, all-powerful, all-knowing and all-present. He is infinite, eternal, immortal, infallible and immeasurable. He loves us and adopts us into His family as we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. Almighty God becomes our Heavenly Father. Praise the Lord! Let me encourage you to walk by faith and not by sight. Place your faith in God and live out your faith as a “Christ follower.” Put your faith in action in 2018! — Tony Cooper Celebrating Tony Cooper’s Celebrating 27 Years of Service as Exec. upcoming Director, 25 years of service to the Jimmie Hale Mission Jimmie Hale Mission, www.jimmiehalemission.com
2018 is upon us. Everyone is thinking about their New Year’s Resolutions, and I’m sure you’ve heard, “I’m going to stop…” or more commonly, “I’m going to start…” It’s the checklist we commonly create this time every year. I have an idea. Instead of making an annual checklist of different actions, directions or resolutions, why not focus on a list of priorities that can become a part of your life all year long – every day of your life from now on? The list should look something like this:
1) You and God 2) You 3) You and your spouse 4) You and your children 5) You and EVERYTHING ELSE! Notice the first word in each is YOU! May 2018 be the year that you allow God to work in your life because this is the year you sincerely ask God to change you. If you do, I guarantee that you will see marked improvement in every one of your priorities. Why? Because God desires to make you better! He promised, “I will create a new heart within you.” He’s just waiting on you to ask. — John Croyle, Founder, Big Oak Ranch Author, Who You Are/Defying the Circumstances that Define Us, Bringing Out the Winner in Your Child, The Two Minute Drill to Manhood and Raising a Princess, www.bigoak.org
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22 Bay Area Christian Family
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2018: Opportunity to Invest in Saving Lives
We need your assistance this new year to continue helping those in need of recovery. Since 1958, Teen Challenge has been the most successful rehabilitation program in the world. So, ask yourself this question; Do I want to partner in my giving to receive the most out of my investment? If the answer is yes, then go to our website, www.alatc.org and click on the donate tab or call 205-763-0909. You can also help Alabama Teen Challenge by planning your car donation to us in 2018. Plus, don’t forget to encourage people you know who are being affected by drugs to make the commitment to enter our program- a proven cure for the drug epidemic. Out of 1100 Teen Challenge centers, we have 4 right here in Alabama.
“The Teen Challenge program succeeds when all of the government programs have failed." Charles Colson, Founder Prison Fellowship
We also invite you to come and see what God is doing at Alabama Teen Challenge. Schedule your business or church group for a fellowship dinner in 2018. Just call Tiffany Cosby, 205-763-0909, for an opportunity to see God at work at Alabama Teen Challenge! — Robert Angles Executive Director, Alabama Teen Challenge, Adult Men’s and Women’s Centers 205-763-0909, P.O Box 270, Lincoln, AL 35096, www.alatc.org
P l an
of
S alvation
Has something in the magazine or something you have discussed with someone or some thoughts that you have had or something that you have heard, brought you to a point of realizing that you want and need to know Christ in the truest and personal sense?
If so, below is a simple outline for someone of any age who is not a Believer to act on their desire to accept Jesus Christ into their heart as their Savior. God’s Plan of Salvation God created us to honor and serve Him Revelation 4:11: “You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power;For You created all things, And by Your will they exist[b] and were created Each of us has sinned against God Romans 3:10: As it is written, “There is none righteous, no, not one” Romans3:23: For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
Jesus Christ died on the cross in our place, paying the penalty for our sin Romans 5:8: But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. We each must accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior Romans 10:9: that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:13: For “whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.”
The penalty for sin is eternal separation from God and Heaven Romans 6:23: For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good works cannot ever earn God’s forgiveness and Salvation Titus 3:5: not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us. God loves each of us John 3:16: For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
To accept Christ into your heart and life, pray a simple prayer along these lines - “Dear God, I know that I am a sinner and I am sorry for my sins. I know that Jesus died for my sins and the sins of the world. Right now, I ask Jesus into my heart and receive Him as my personal Savior. Forgive me of my sins, thank you for saving me through the blood of Jesus. Please Lord, help me live for you. In Jesus name, amen.” All scriptures are taken from The New King James Version of the Holy Bible.
January 2018 23
C olor i ng P age
www.BozTheBear.com BOZ was created by Dennis DeShazer and Jon Green. © 2006 Reel FX, Inc. BOZ, EXCLAIM, and related names, logos, slogans, and characters are trademarks and service marks of Reel FX, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 0376-06
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JANUARY 2018 Calendar October 26 – April 21 Savage Ancient Seas - Savage Ancient Seas will transport guests to a time when the last of the great dinosaurs roamed the Earth and swam the seas. It is the spectacular and exotic creatures of this sea that are the subject of this exciting exhibition. In partnership with Triebold Paleontology, Incorporated, GulfQuest Maritime Museum has developed an ancient underwater environment where visitors can experience enormous, vicious sea monsters of the Cretaceous Period. The exhibition includes more than 50 prehistoric marine fossils, both cast and real specimens, mounted in extraordinary three-dimensional displays. The skeletons are mounted dramatically, many suspended from the ceiling above, immersing visitors inside an ancient aquarium of sorts.
on the Titanic and more to compliment the exhibition. For more information regarding Titanic Honour & Glory, contact our Marketing and Event Coordinator, Gavin Snyder at 251.301.0273 or gavin. snyder@historymuseumofmobile.com. For more information regarding Titanic Honour & Glory, contact our Marketing and Event Coordinator, Gavin Snyder at 251.301.0273 or gavin.snyder@historymuseumofmobile.com.
January 5 The Black Jacket Symphony: Led Zeppelin “IV” - The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience through recreating classic albums in a live performance setting. Led Zeppelin’s “IV” album is performed in its entirety by a group of handpicked musicians specifically selected for each album, with no sonic detail being overlooked–the musicians do whatever it takes to musically reproduce the album. The performance is separated into two sets. The first set features the “IV” album being December 15 – April 15 recreated as a true symphonic piece. The Titanic: Honour & Glory - The History second set, which features a selection Museum of Mobile is proud to announce of Led Zeppelin’s “greatest hits,” opens its upcoming exhibit titled, Titanic Hon- in full contrast to the first set with an our & Glory. Established in 2002, Titanic incredible light display and the symHonour & Glory is an international phony being much more laid back. The touring exhibition, which prides itself tone is set very quickly that the show will in preserving the history of the Titanic, feature the high level of musicianship her sister ships Olympic and Britannic of the act being covered and will also be and the fleet of ships that once sailed accompanied by all the bells and whistles under the distinctive swallow-tailed flag of a major rock and roll show. For more of the legendary White Star Line. Titanic information please contact the Saenger Honour & Glory contains the largest Theater. collection of Titanic and White Star Line artifacts in Scotland, which have been January 9 collected over the last twenty years. The Shen Yun – A unique artistic vision exhibition displays a diverse range of expands theatrical experience into a stunning and extremely rare artifacts multi-dimensional, inspiring journey from the Titanic, her sister ships and the through one of humanity’s greatest White Star Line. In addition to original treasures—the five millennia of tradiartifacts, it also has magnificent movie tional Chinese culture. Featuring one of props and costumes from the blockbust- the world’s oldest art forms—classical er 1997 James Cameron movie, Titanic. Chinese dance—along with patented When visiting the exhibition, you will scenographical effects and all-original come face to face with history through orchestral works, Shen Yun opens a porreal artifacts and personal stories. tal to a civilization of enchanting beauty Experience the grandeur of the gilded and enlightening wisdom. Patrons age of transatlantic travel as you view should wear evening or business attire. awe inspiring examples of her luxurious Please express enthusiasm for the show interior fittings of the Olympic and the through applause only. NO whistling or forgotten sister ship, Britannic. Titanic cheering. No photographs or video reHonour & Glory will open December cording during the show. Children under 15, 2017 and run through April 15, 2018, 4 years of age are not admitted. Tickets: making its U.S. debut here in Mobile. In Now on sale $150.00, $120.00, $100.00, addition to the exhibition, the History $90.00, $80.00 (plus additional fees). Museum will also be hosting monthly Located at the Mobile Civic Center. events such as a Titanic Film Festival, a Third Class Irish Party, the Last Dinner
January 20 Mobile Symphony Orchestra: Four Seasons - Vivaldi was a master of his art in that he was capable of composing music which spoke more powerfully than words. The Four Seasons puts Vivaldi’s mastery on full display. For each season, there is a corresponding concertos which provides a vivid musical portrait. Argentina’s tango master, Astor Piazzolla took a different spin on this concept with his piece Four Seasons of Buenos Aires which exudes a distinct Latin flair. Mobile favorite Chee-Yun will be returning to perform these incredible works. Her first public performance was at the age of 8 and by the age of 13 she had already performed with the New York Philharmonic. Since then, CheeYun has performed with many of the world’s foremost orchestras. She plays the Stradivarius “Ex-Strauss” (Cremona, 1708), which is on loan through the generous efforts of the Samsung Foundation of Culture of Korea and the Stradivari Society of Chicago, Illinois.
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November 24 – March 4 Ice Skating at the Fort - Join us on the ice as we create memories together! This ice skating adventure includes your skate rental and admission to the Fort. Tickets for adults are $15 and children ages 4-12 are $10. Children under 6 must be accompanied on the ice by an adult who will also need to purchase a ticket.
January 21 Evensong 2018 - January brings our highest expression of fully choral evensong at Christ Church Cathedral. Following the order of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer, this service will feature the Preces and Responses and Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis by Steven Rickards, a prominent American composer, countertenor, and founder of Echoing Air, an acclaimed early m
HAVE AN EVENT? TELL US ABOUT IT! If you have an event you would like listed in the Bay Area Christian Family Community Calendar Email to: bayareachristianfamily@mchsi.com subject line-Calendar
January 11 Breakfast with the Mayor - The breakfast is a boutique business event with attendance limited to 150 people. It affords an intimate opportunity to hear from Mayor Sandy Stimpson on his plans for downtown and the surrounding city. It will be held in the ballroom of the Renaissance Riverview Hotel beginning at 7:30 a.m. and featuresa full buffet breakfast.
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A bout O u r A dve rti s e r s Support us by supporting them. 221-Fun Factory - 3761 Government Blvd, Mobile, AL, 251-378-5296, www.221live.com
Friedman’s Fine Jewelry – 851 E I-65 Maloney-Frost LLC – 601 Government Service Road, Suite #100, Mobile, AL, 251- Street, Mobile, AL, (800) 809-3669, 479-9469, www.friedmansfinejewelry.com www.maloney-frost.com
All About Relaxing RV Park – 8950 Three Greer’s – Locations throughout Mobile Notch Road, Theodore, AL, 251-375and Baldwin Counties, www.greers.com 0661, www.allaboutrelaxingrv.com Hacienda San Miguel - 880 Schillinger Blue Cliff Career College – 2970 Cottage Road, Mobile, AL, 251-633-6122, Hill Road, Mobile, www.sanmiguelrestaurante.com 251-473-2220, www.blue.edu Hart’s Fried Chicken – Multiple Locations, Brick & Spoon - 3662-A Airport Blvd, www.hartsfriedchicken.com Mobile, AL, 251-652-8833, www.brickandspoonrestaurant.com Jason’s Fitness – 3724 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile, AL, 251-391-1234, Christopher Mullenix, DMD, MD, Oral & www.southfit.com Maxillofacial Surgery 715 Downtowner Blvd, Mobile, 251-471- Legacy Seafood LLC – 7272 Theodore 3381, www.mobileoralsurgery.com Dawes Road, Theodore, AL, 251-525-8333
McKemie Place – www.mckemieplace.org
Christ Like Remodeling - 251-408-7372
Pickett Orthodontics – 6611 Wall Street, Mobile, 251-607-0110, www.picketortho.com
C las s i f i eds
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Lighthouse Restaurant - 12495 County Road 23, Irvington, AL, 251-824-2500 4/23/12
Merle Norman Cosmetics – 720 Schillinger Road S, Mobile, AL, 251-633-3512 Mobile Ballet – 251-342-2241, www.mobileballet.org Mostellar Medical Center - 12701 Padgett Switch Rd, Irvington, AL, 251-824-2174, www.mostellarmedical.org Palmer’s Toyota Superstore - 470 Schillinger Road South, Mobile, AL, 251-6390800, www.palmerstoyotasuperstore.com
Power 88 Christian Radio Station, Goforth Media, – 6530-B Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort, AL 36527, 251-473-8488 and 888-473-8488, www.goforth.org Via Senior Center – 1717 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL, 251-470-5226, www.viamobile.org Window Décor and More – 25595 Canal Road, Suite A, Orange Beach, AL, 251- 980-2456, www.windowdecorllc.com Zaxby’s of Mobile - Three Locations to Serve You, Schillingers Road, Hwy 90 & Springhill Ave, www.zaxbys.com/mobile
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Free Pick-up and tax receipt. 83 Call (251) 602-14 ils ta de for & appointment for pick-up.
S u pport G rou p s
Al-Anon Meetings Al-Anon offers help and hope to families and friends of alcoholics. New Life Al-Anon meets MWF at 12:00 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2921 Airport Blvd. Courage to Change Adult Children Al-Anon meets Mondays 5:30 p.m. at Activities Bldg. Room 232 Spring Hill Baptist Church, 2 South McGregor. Searching For Serenity Adult Children AlAnon meets Saturday 11:00 a.m. at Activities Bldg. Room 240, Spring Hill Baptist Church, 2 South McGregor. For meeting information call 251-639-5858.
Alzheimer’s/Dementia Support Group (South Alabama)- 3rd Tuesday of every month from 6 to 7pm. No entrance or support fees associated with the group. VIA Senior Center, 1717 Dauphin Street, Mobile, 36604. For Meeting information call 251.776.5999. Alzheimer’s Dementia Support Group- Touching Hearts Senior Care, 3rd Tuesday of each Month, 11am-12pm, 3263 Demetropolis, Ste10, Mobile, AL 36693, 251.455.4204, no fee all invited
Compassionate Friends Grief Support Group – 1507 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604, (251) 471-1511 Hours: 6:30 p.m., 2nd Tuesday of Alzheimer’s Support Group (Fairhope)- Thom- each month as Hospital Wellness Center, 750 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope, AL 36533 (251) 660-5661 Discover Groups The groups below help individuals battling adAlzheimer’s Disease Support Group (Mobile)- diction, coping with divorce, suffering from a E.A. Roberts Alzheimer’s Center, 169 Mobile loss and co-dependency. This is done through Infirmary Blvd., Mobile, AL (251) 435-6950 a Christ-centered and Bible based approach. Hours: 2nd Thursday of every month from 10 to 11 am New - Discovery Group starting Monday, December 7th from 7-8 pm at Graceport Church,
26 Bay Area Christian Family
17176 Greeno Rd, Fairhope, Al, 36532
Positive Parenting Discovery Group every Tuesday from 7-8 pm Exchange Club Family Center, 3101 Interat Christ Anglican, 3275 Halls Mill Rd, Mobile, national Drive, Suite 701, Mobile, AL 36606, Al, 36606 (251) 479-5700 Discovery Group every Thursday at 7 pm at Widowed Persons Group Wings of Life, 800 St. Louis Street, Mobile, Al, Dauphin Way Baptist Church, 3661 Dauphin 36602 Street, Mobile, AL 36608 Group meets Wednesdays at 3:30 pm 251-342-3456 Divorce Recovery Support Group – 6101 Grelot Road, Mobile, AL 36609 Widowed Persons Service of Greater Mobile (251) 342-0462 Grief groups and “Building a New Life” Hours: 6 p.m. - 7:30p.m. every Wednesday group offered at different times and in several locations. Call the WPS office for info. 1204 Mom’s Day Out – Hillcrest Rd. Mobile, AL, 251-470-6866 First Baptist Church, 806 Government Street Childcare in Downtown for working Moms and Dads, (251) 432-6513, ext. 22, Hours: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday, ages 8 Does your organization offer a support group weeks to 4 years for the Bay Area? Mom’s Support Group Tell us! Send your information to: Exchange Club Family Center, 3101 Internabayareachristianfamily@mchsi.com tional Drive Ste 701, Mobile, AL 36606, (251) to be listed in upcoming issues 479-5700 Hours: 1-2:30 p.m. Thursdays
www.BayAreaChristianFamily.com
Where NEEDS are MET, HOPE IS GIVEN & LIVES are CHANGED for MOTHERS, SISTERS & DAUGHTERS. Strength and honor are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. Proverbs 31:25
We at McKemie Place are committed to helping women create new beginnings by empowering them with the courage to rebuild their lives. Donations of time, talent and treasure are greatly needed. C E L E B R A T I N G
Call us at 251.432.1122 or visit McKemiePlace.org to learn how you can help today. OF GIVING HOPE
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The region's only shelter for single, homeless women.