Boomers (March 2014)

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boomers Est. 2011 u Mid February - Mid March 2014

Have our parenting styles changed? Brunch recipes Mardi Gras schedule

Dancing

keeps us young

Protect your landscape from wildlife damage

Volume 4, Number 2 Gulf Coast Newspapers GulfCoastNewsToday.com


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Boomers

Mid February - Mid March 2014

You could be out living your life instead of living with a chronic wound. A wound that hasn’t healed after 30 days is one you shouldn’t ignore. It can keep you from enjoying life the way you used to. So don’t wait any

Enjoy.

longer to get the help you need. The Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine Center at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center offers convenient, outpatient treatment with a specially trained staff and advanced techniques to help heal chronic wounds of any type.

To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call 251-949-3920 today.

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1613 North McKenzie Street • Foley, AL 36535 Located on the southwest corner of South Baldwin Regional Medical Center’s main campus

1/4/13 11:42 AM


Mid February - Mid March 2014

Remembering Baby Boomers Authors disagree on the birth years of Baby Boomers, generally defined those born in the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. Some define a Boomer as one who was born between 1946 and 1964. Others include more years in this definition. Some divide this group into Early Boomers and Late Boomers, defined by their differences in life experiences. Most agree that the name refers to a temporary boom in the number of births. The numbers were significant enough to catch the attention of marketers who have consistently clamored to promote products and services to this large, distinctive group. Each month, when we plan our next issue of Boomers, we use our own loose definition. We define our readers, for the most part, as people 45 and older. But you can’t be too young or too old to enjoy Boomers, so we invite one and all to our Boomers family. Maybe we won’t be “forever young,” but we can grow older together. You’re never too old to exercise!

About the cover In this issue we take a look at dancing, which can be good for you and fun at the same time. With so many forms of dancing, from easy to complicated, it is a wise choice for many people. So step up and get stepping!

Get fit with

Curves

boomers Est. 2011 u Mid February - Mid March 2014

Boomers

INSIDE:

protecting your landscape page 19 4u Making the Most of Each Day A treasure trove of memories

See story on pages 6-7. Volume 4, Number 2 Gulf Coast Newspapers GulfCoastNewsToday.com

boomers Est. 2011

Sudie Gambrell Publisher Paige Renka Layout and Cover Design Theresa Corbin, Will Hodge and Melinda Myers Contributing writers Deirdre Davison, Cindy Dean, Dr. Linda Mitchell and Louise Thompson Columnists

6u

Get Active, Stay Active Dance away health problems

8u

Mardi Gras Parade Schedule

10u Calendar of Events 12u The Counseling Centre Communication skills 14u Yummy’s Corner Have parenting styles changed? 16u The roller coaster ride “Date nights” 17u Arts around town GCAA Art Market Happenings at Coastal Art Center 18u Flashback 40

Gulf Coast Newspapers 217 N. McKenzie St. Foley, AL 36535 251-943-2151 sgambrell@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

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20u Food for Thought Brunch recipes 22u Eye problems and warning signs


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Mid February - Mid March 2014

Making the most of each day: A treasure trove of memories

By Deirdre Davison Columnist

T

oday, as my mate and I were packing up our house for yet another move, we came across a huge plastic container that we thought was empty stuffed into one of the dark recesses of our storage room. Well, we thought that it was empty until we tried to lift it. We hauled it out of the storage room, lifted the lid and peered in as if half expecting a light to emanate from it. The box was a treasure trove of memories. In the box before us were boxes stacked upon other boxes, each box stuffed full of my family’s well-photographed history. On the very top of all the boxes was a matted photograph of Ansel Adams that my father had taken. Under that laid an original framed photograph by A. Doren and the book “Photographing Children: Life Library of Photography” that his photograph had appeared in. Below that was the original proof of “Out the Side Window” by Merry Moore Winnett, a mixed media photographer. The original is now housed in the Smithsonian. Packing was as quickly forgotten, as were my thoughts of writing about where I was in January 1964. My partner wanted us to stroll down my

memory lane and I was only too happy to oblige. So we crumpled onto the floor and began peeling away the layers one by one. Under those lovely photographs was my baby book. Actually, it was my father’s baby book from 1930. My grandmother never used it, so she gave it to my mother, who didn’t use it much either. Most of the pages were as blank as my memory was of my first few years. I did find out that I doubled my weight in my first two months and that my mother wanted to put me on a diet. After reading that, I can now say with confidence that any weight issues I may have are in my genes. We put the tattered book aside and continued our journey. “Ted’s old photographs” was written on the top box. We opened it to find pictures of my father in his wool bucket hat, a hat that nearly 10 years after his death, I dearly cherish and still put on when I’m missing him. There were pictures of him racing his Morgan down Pilot Mountain. Seeing that picture made me laugh out loud because as my father aged, he always drove five miles under the speed limit, a quirk of his that he attributed to his racing days. While I never understood it and never thought to ask, “Why?” I realized that as I laughed so heartily, the reason didn’t matter anymore. What mattered was that I remembered. My


Mid February - Mid March 2014

father, my grandmother and other members of my family who had passed returned to life with each photograph, even if only for a few brief moments. Another box was marked “Deirdre.” It was filled with pictures of me from about 3 until 17 years old. As a 3-year-old, I had a mischievous, even devilish grin; the kind of grin that comes from feeling safe and not having a care in the world. As a 13-yearold, I wanted to look like a woman, but couldn’t quite muster it yet. So my freckled face and gaptooth grin just screamed, “I’m almost a teenager and I don’t have a clue!” As a 17-year-old studying drama at the NC School of the Arts, my face was serious as if pondering the mysteries of theatre. In reality, I still didn’t have a clue. How fortunate I was to have a father that seemed to always have a camera in one hand and a light meter in the other, and how fortunate he was to have me as his always willing subject! While the memories in that plastic container are all attached to my family’s timeline, they are also timeless because they have preserved snapshots in history. Snapshots that are as important to me today as are the snapshots of the blizzard of January 1964 that crippled the East Coast from Maine to South Carolina to those who endured the weeks of power outages that followed. The memories in that plastic container are as real to me today as are the memories of Lyndon B. Johnson’s first State of the Union address in 1964 that declared War on Pover-

Boomers

ty and the memories of Panama severing diplomatic relations with the United States in January 1964. These snapshots in history are as important to our past as they are to our future. They can make us smile, laugh, and cry. They can change our future path. They can give us hope and remind us of what love can be. Whether five or 50 years pass, I’ll still put on Daddie’s bucket hat when I miss him and I’ll still drag out the giant box stuffed full of photographs so I can remember my history. Therein lies the deep and inherent value in trying to remember where you were at a given point in your personal timeline. When you hold a special Christmas ornament, smell your father’s cologne, see a familiar sunrise, bake a revered family dish, or read about a specific event in your life, you have the potential to be transported back to that time. You have the opportunity to bring those memories to life and with that, you have the opportunity to make them real for those who will follow you. You have the ability to share that wonderful gift that can allow your progeny to smile, laugh and cry when they remember the time you remembered and shared your memory with them. Each month as I try to remember a snapshot of my childhood, I am fortunate to bring to life a memory. By sharing the memory, it becomes real for some and opens a door for others to recall their own histories. History is never static; nor should we be.

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No representation is made about the quality of the podiatric services to be performed or the expertise of the podiatrist performing such services.


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Get active, stay active Dance away health problems By Theresa Corbin Contributing writer

I

n January, Boomers saw what yoga could do for folks of all ages. In February, Boomers trail blazed through Baldwin County. And now Boomers is dusting off the dancing shoes and turning up the beat for this edition of getting active and staying active. Dancing is a great way to get moving and have a great time doing it. And dancing is not just for prom and the night life. There are many places for people young and mature, beginners and seasoned, to get their groove on in the Baldwin County area. Get your blood pumping at a parade during Mardi Gras as the local high school band strolls down the street playing a jazzy beat. Or chasse your way down to Fairhope’s Famous Cabaret Dances at the James P. Nix Center on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. Or perhaps you are not quite prepared for dancing in public. Then you can tune up your moves in a class at the Fred Astaire

Dance Studio. Whether it is dancing in the street during Mardi Gras or in a class at a dance studio, there are many health benefits of dancing. It doesn’t matter if you prefer country line dancing, swing or hip hop. It doesn’t make any difference what music you play: Elvis, Duke Ellington or Kanye West. All you need are shoes and a beat and you can dance your way to a better you! Not only is dance a great way to get moving, it is a great way to meet new people. And surprisingly, dancing can help you remember your new friends’ names. According to a study in The New England Journal of Medicine, “dancing may boost your memory and prevent

you from developing dementia as you get older.” Perhaps it is the remembering dance steps or the repetition that flexes the memory muscle. Whatever it is, more memory and more friends can’t be a bad thing. Dancing is also a fantastic way to get a great heart healthy workout in without even noticing. Unlike other forms of cardiovascular activity, dancing does something extra special for the ticker. “A study conducted by medical researchers in Italy found

“A study conducted by medical researchers in Italy found that people with heart failure who took up waltzing improved their heart health, their breathing and their quality of life significantly more than those who exercised by bicycling or walking on a treadmill,” — SeniorLiving.com


Mid February - Mid March 2014

Boomers

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Get your dancing shoes on at these great venues and events One time event: Mardi Gras Dance with John & Jim @ The Event Center at The Wharf Music by John & Jim. Cost is $12 per person. Tickets available at the Senior Center and at the door the evening of the dance. Feb. 26 from 6-9 p.m. 251-981-3440 Recurring: Fairhope’s Famous Cabaret Dances Hosted at the James P. Nix Center on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. 7 to 10 p.m. and are open to anyone over the age of 21. Cost is $5 for Nix Center members and $9 for guests. For more information, call 251-928-2835. Nix Center Ballroom Dance Lessons 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursdays. Cost is $30 per person for six-week class; non-members additional $10. To register call the Nix Center in Fairhope at 251-928-2835. JAMES P. NIX CENTER, Bayou Drive in Fairhope.

Ballroom dancing is a great way to get in shape and is also a useful skill when attending weddings and parties. that people with heart failure who took up waltzing improved their heart health, their breathing and their quality of life significantly more than those who exercised by bicycling or walking on a treadmill,” stated seniorliving. com. Whether you are recovering from or preventing a heart attack, the science says: just dance! In addition to promoting memory and a strong heart, dancing can help prevent falls. According to a study published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, “dancing significantly improved balance, which reduces

the risk of falling.” An unwanted accident at any age can be painful and embarrassing, but they are especially dangerous to those over 65, who are more susceptible to suffering hip and/or head injuries. With all the options in our area and all the health benefits of dance, is it hard to not to tap your toes and fill up your dance card. So go ahead and dance for your heart, memory, and balance. And keep your eyes peeled and your muscles warm for Boomers’ next edition of getting active and staying active.

PZK Center Dances First and third Friday of every month from 7 to 10 p.m. at the PZK Center in Robertsdale. Music is by Scott Langholff. Admission is $5. Soft drinks and coffee are provided; those attending should bring finger food. For more information, call 251-947-8606 or 251-947-5849. PZK Hall in Robertsdale. Director: Sarah Duncan 251-947-8973 Pate’s Country Music Hall Saturday, March 1st “JUKEBOX MEMORIES” starring “BLEND” Show times: 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Owner: Emmett Pate 251-943-4710 or 251-978-2462 Fred Astaire Dance Studio Studios offer instruction on private and group levels as well as practice sessions. Learning how to dance is made to feel easy and fun! 27955 Highway 98, Suite M Daphne, AL 36526 251-625-4411


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©©©©©©©©©©©©©©©©©

This schedule includes corrected dates, times and routes for parades in Mobil 2:30 p.m. — The Haven's Mystic Friday, Feb. 14 Sunday, Feb. 16 Friday, Feb. 21 Friday, Feb. 14 Friday, Feb. 21
 Monday, Feb. of 24
Revelry dog parade; Mutts 6:30 p.m. — Order of Inca, 6:30 p.m. — Conde Cavaliers; 2 p.m. — Krewe de la Heron n 6:30 p.m. — Conde Cavaliers; n 6:30 p.m. — Order of Inca, n 6:30 p.m. — Order of Venus; Fairhope downtown Mobile Route A downtown Mobile Route A Lakes (children); Heron Lakes downtown Mobile Route A Circle downtown Mobile 6:45 Routep.m. A — Apollo's Mystic downtown Mobile Route A Monday, Feb. 24 Ladies; startsLadies; and ends behind 

 n 6:45 p.m. — Apollo's Mystic p.m. — Order of Venus; Daphne CivicCivic Center on Scenic 98 6:30 Saturday, Feb. 15 Saturday, Feb. 15
 Wednesday, Feb. 19 starts and ends behind Daphne TUESDAY, Feb. 25
 Mobile Route A downtown 2 p.m. —nOrder the Rolling 2 p.m.ofOrder of the Rolling River; Center on Scenic 98ininDaphne Daphne n 6:30 p.m. — Order of LaShe’s; 12:30 p.m. — Mystics of Ashland Feb. A 25 River; Dauphin Island Parkway Dauphin Island Parkway Place (children); Lanier Avenue downtownTuesday, Mobile Route Saturday, Feb. 22 6:30 p.m. — Order of LaShe's; 2:30 p.m. — Bayport Parading n 2:30 p.m. Bayport Parading Society; Saturday, Feb. 22
 10 a.m. — Hickory Ridge Kids downtown Mobile Route A Society; downtown Mobile downtown Mobile Route A Thursday, Feb. 20 n 10 a.m. — HickoryKrewe Ridge(children); Kids Krewe Wednesday, Feb. 26
 Timberly Circle Route A n 6:30 p.m. Pharaohs, Order6:30 p.m. — Order(children); of Polka Dots; of Hebe, Timberly2Circle 10 a.m. —Wednesday, Order of Impalas Feb. 26(children); p.m. — Mobile Mystics,nMobile 6:30 p.m. — Pharaohs, Order of downtown Mobile Conde Explorers; n 2 p.m. — Mobile Mystical Mystics, Revelers; downtown St. Ignatius10Catholic a.m. —School Order of Impalas Hebe, Conde Explorers; downtown (children); St. Ignatius Catholic Mobile Route A downtown Mobile Route A Route A Mobile Mystical Revelers; Mobile Route A School 6:30 p.m. — Maids of Mirth, downtown Mobile Route A Thursday, Feb. 27
 Butterfly Maidens, Krewe of Sunday, Feb. 16
 n 6:30 p.m. — Maids of Mirth, Butterfly n 6:30 p.m. Thursday, — Mystic Stripers Feb. 27 Society; Marry Mates; downtown Mobile p.m.Route — Mystic Stripers n 2 p.m. — Krewe de la Heron Lakes Maidens, Krewe of Marry Mates; downtown6:30 Mobile A Route A Society; downtown Mobile (children); Heron Lakes Circle downtown Mobile Route A 6:45 p.m. — Knights of Ecor Route A n 6:45 p.m. — Knights of Ecor Friday, Feb. 28
 Rouge; startsRouge; and ends at Fairhope Feb. Wednesday, Feb. 19
 starts and ends at Fairhope Civicon Center n 6:30 — Crewe of 28 Columbus; Civic Center Section Street in p.m. Friday, p.m.Route — Crewe of Columbus; nMEN’S 12:30 p.m.FORMAL — Mystics ofWEAR Ashland on Section Street inFairhope Fairhope downtown6:30 Mobile A Mobile PlaceSALES (children); Lanier Avenue 
 n 6:30 p.m. downtown — Mystical OrderRoute of A * RENTALS 6:30Wintzell's p.m. — Mystical Order Gulf Coast Mardi Gras Headquarters Sunday, Feb. 23Sunday, Feb. 23 Mirams; from to Alabama 161of Since 1963 Mirams; from Wintzell's to — Mystics of Children; Thursday, Feb. 20
 n 2 p.m. — Mystics2ofp.m. Children; in Orange Beach Alabama 161 in Orange Beach $70 Rosswood Drive Mardi Gas Tail Rentals n 6:30 p.m. — Order of Polka Dots; Rosswood Drive n 6:45 p.m. 6:45 — Maids of Jubilee; p.m. — Maids of Jubilee; 6:30 p.m. — Neptune's Daughters, 2151 Airportdowntown Blvd. 4400 Bayou Blvd., Mobile Route A Suite 10 n 6:30 p.m. — Neptune's Daughters, starts and starts ends at Fairhope Center and ends at Civic Fairhope Civic Order of Isis; downtown Mobile (at the loop) (Cordova Square) Order of Isis; downtown Mobile Route A on Section Street in Fairhope Center on Section Street in Mobile, AL 36606 Pensacola, FL 35203 Route A 251-478-7683 850-432-8246 Fairhope

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Boomers

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le and Baldwin counties. Please use today's schedule as an accurate reference. 1:30 p.m. — Comic Cowboys; Saturday, March 1 2:30 p.m. — Joe Cain Procession; Tuesday, March 4 downtown Mobile Route AMobile Route A Saturday, March 1
 Sunday, 2 downtown 11 a.m. — Foley parade; Foley downtown Mobile RouteMarch A n 6:45 p.m. — Order Joe CainKids Day n 11—a.m. — Foley parade; Foley4 p.m. — The 2 p.m.of—Mystic Orange Beach Mardi 11 a.m. Krewe of Kids; Wharf's and Magnolias; starts ends at Fairhope n 11 a.m. — Krewe of Kids; Prichard n 2:29 p.m.Main — Loyal Grasand Parade; from Wintzell's to Prichard Pets Parade (children); StreetOrder of the FireCivic Center onAlabama Section Street Fairhope 161 ininOrange Beach Noon Floral Parade,Parade, KnightsKnights of at of the Wharf intruck; Orange Beach n— Noon — Floral starts and ends behind Daphne 2 p.m. — MAMGA Mammoth Mobile, Mobile Cadets, Mobile 5 p.m. — Le Krewe de Bienville; Mobile, Mobile Cadets, Mobile Civic Center on Scenic 98 in Daphne (Fat Tuesday) Parade;4downtown Mobile Mystical Ladies,Ladies, Order of Angels; downtown Mobile A Joe Cain Procession; Tuesday, March Mystical Order of Angels; n 2:30Route p.m. — Route B downtown Mobile Route A 6 p.m. — The Wharf's Float 10 a.m. — Gulf Shores Mardi Fat Tuesday
 downtown Mobile Route A downtown Mobile Route A 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. — Lulu's 10th Noon — Krewe of Goats Parade; Parade; Main Street at the Wharf Gras Association; Clubhouse Drive n 10 a.m. — Gulf Shores Mardi Gras n Noon — Krewe of Goats Parade; n 4 p.m. — The Wharf's Kids and Pets annual Mardi Gras Boat Parade; Prichard in Orange Beach to Alabama 182 in Gulf Shores Association; Clubhouse Drive to Parade (children); Main Street at The leaves the Wharf at 3 p.m. and Noon Prichard — Mystic Revelers; from 10:30 a.m. — Order of Athena; Alabama 182 inarrives Gulf Shores Noon — Mystic Revelers; Wharf, Orange Beach downtown Mobile Route at Lulu's at Homeport Bayn Minette Middle School to A n 10:30 a.m. — Order of March 3 — Le Krewe de12:30 from Bay Middle SchoolMonday, to n 5 p.m. Bienville; Marina inAthena; Gulf Shores at 5 p.m. Civic Center in Minette Bay Minette p.m. — Knights of Revelry; downtown Mobile Route A 2 p.m.Civic — Krewe Mates; (Lundi Gras) downtown Mobile Route CenterofinMullet Bay Minette A 
 6 p.m. — Order of Myths; downtown Mobile Route A Noon — King Felix III and Floral Mullet Point n 12:30 p.m. — Knights of Revelry; downtown Mobile Route C n 2 p.m. — Krewe of Mullet Mates; n 6 p.m. — The Wharf's Float Parade; 5:30 p.m. — Point Mystics of Pleasure; parades; downtown downtown Mobile Route A Mullet Main Mobile Street at The Wharf, Orange Beach fromnWintzell's in Route A n 1:30 p.m. — Comic Cowboys; 5:30 p.m. to —Alabama Mystics 161 of Pleasure; 1 p.m. — Prichard Mardi Gras Orange Beach downtown Mobile Route A from Wintzell's to Alabama 161 in Monday, March 3 Association Parade; Prichard 6 p.m. — Mystics of Time; n 2 p.m. — Orange Beach Mardi Gras Lundi Gras Orange BeachRoute A 3 p.m. — MLK Business and downtown Mobile Parade; from Wintzell's to Alabama 161 n NoonMLK — King Felix III and Floral 6 p.m. Mystics of Time; Civic Organization, Monday 6:45np.m. —— Shadow Barons; in Orange Beach Mystics, Northside Merchants; parades; downtown Mobile Route A downtown Mobile Route A starts and ends behind Daphne Route D n 2 p.m. — MAMGA Mammoth Parade; Civic on — Scenic 98 inBarons; downtown Mobile n 1 p.m. — Prichard Mardi Gras n Center 6:45 p.m. Shadow 6:30 p.m. — Infant Mystics;Parade; Prichard Daphne downtown Mobile Route B Association starts and ends behind Daphne Civic downtown Mobile Route A n 3-5 p.m. — Lulu's 10th annual Mardi n 3 p.m. — MLK Business and Civic Center on Scenic 98 in Daphne Sunday, March 2 (Joe Cain Day) 6:45 p.m. — Order of Mystic Gras Boat Parade; Lulu's at Homeport Organization, MLK Monday Mystics, 2:29 p.m. — Loyal Order of the Magnolias; starts and ends at Marina in Gulf Shores Northside Merchants; Firetruck; starts and ends behind Fairhope Civic Center on Section n 6 p.m. — Order of Myths; downtown Mobile Route D Daphne Civic Center on Scenic 98 Street in Fairhope downtown Mobile Route C in Daphne n 6:30 p.m. — Infant Mystics;

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Boomers

Mid February - Mid March 2014

calendar of events uArts

Dancing in the Lobby Lounge

7 p.m., Feb. 15 Free New Life in Christ Church, 102 East Berry Avenue, Foley Hong Y. Yang is coming to Foley. He was a devout atheist and a dedicated communist. Yet God himself reached down and changed him by the powerful and penetrating Gospel of Jesus Christ. 251-943-2225 or newlifeinchristchurch.net or pcwilde@gulftel.com

Celebrate Arbor Day

10 a.m., Feb. 15 Free Faulkner State Community College, north on Bancroft Street. Fairhope celebrates Arbor Day with music, refreshments, a tree seedling giveaway, awards, and more. On the grounds of Faulkner State Community College under the beautiful live oak just north of the new building on Bancroft Street.

Loxley Civic Center Hosts the City Rhythm Big Band

7-10 p.m., Feb. 15 Loxley Civic Center, Loxley Sweetheart Dance Tina at 251-964-7733 or cityrhythmbb.com

14th Annual Chili for Charity Cook-off

11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Feb. 15 $30 ticket plus handmade chili bowl, $10 adults, $5 children Oak Hollow Farm, South Greeno Road, Fairhope Ecumenical Ministries 14th Annual Chili for Charity Cook-off at Oak Hollow Farms

Twisted Sisters

12 p.m., Feb. 17 Page and Palette, 32 South Section St., Fairhope “Read it & Eat” Ticketed Luncheon Twisted Sister is Jen Lancaster at her funniest and most, well twisted. Her hilarious take on warring sisters, crazy New Age theories, relationship dramas, and the reality of television is a sharp-edged, wise-ass novel that will keep readers laughing 212-366-2737 or Jessica.butler@us.penguingroup.com

“Delta Reign and Trinity River Band”

7 p.m., Feb. 20 Season tickets $25 for 3, $10 adults, $5 children, children under 6 free Faulkner State Community College Performing Arts Center, 1900 Highway 31 South, Bay Minette

and Entertainment

As 5 rivers flow together into Mobile Bay to form the Delta, so Delta Reign brings together the musical influences of each member…bluegrass, western swing, blues and jazz…it’s being called “Swinging Bluegrass.” There is no better harmony than that of a family band and the group’s harmony blend perfectly serves their musical style, which they term “Countrygrass”. DeltaReign.com or TrinityRiverBand.com

Snowbird Serenade

7:30 p.m., Feb. 20-22; 3 p.m. Feb. 22-23 $15 Gulf Shores Cultural Arts Center, 19470 Oak Road West (County Road 6), Gulf Shores Coastal Chorale performing selections from Opening Night of Broadway 251-458-1690 or coastalchorale.com

PZK Center Dances

7-10 p.m., Feb. 21 $5 PZK Hall, 17933 State Highway 104, Robertsdale Soft drinks and coffee furnished. Bring finger foods. First Friday, music by Dixie Music Man Bruli and third Friday music by Scott Langholff 251-947-8606 or 251-947-5849

Relief Printmaking Workshop

9 a.m.-4 p.m., Feb. 21 $75 + $15 supply fee. Eastern Shore Art Center, Fairhope Explore the basics of creating original multiples through relief printmaking with artist Janet Hinton. Included will be linoleum prints and collographics-printing from a collage. Bring a sack lunch! 251-928-2228 x 107 or esartcenter.com

“An Intimate Evening with Ken Ford-King of Strings” Benefit Concert

7 p.m., Feb. 22 $45 Foley Civic Center, 407 Laurel Avenue, Foley John McClure Snook Youth Club of Foley presents “An Intimate Evening with Ken Ford-King of Strings” Benefit concert. Seating is limited. Tables of 10 available. 251-943-1483 or snookyouthclub.com brownpapertickets.com/event/517309


Mid February - Mid March 2014

Boomers

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calendar of events uArts

100th Anniversary of Naval Air Station Pensacola Discovery Saturday

10 a.m., Feb. 22 Free Pensacola Naval Aviation Museum, Pensacola Naval Base, Pensacola Award winning historian and author Bruce Gamble will present and sign his new book, “Target: Rabaul”, the final book in his acclaimed WWII War in the Pacific trilogy. This book and the other two books in Gamble’s Rabaul trilogy will be available for purchase at the museum store. 850-453-2389 or sragsdale@navalaviationmuseum.org

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”

7:30 p.m., Feb. 22: 2:30 p.m., Feb. 23 $15 Adults, $12 students and senior citizens Playhouse in the Park, 4851 Museum Drive, Mobile “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is an enchanting story of love, mistaken identities, and fairy antics. Two couples meet trouble with the cunning fairies of the forest and Oberon, King of the Fairies, must take matters into his own wings to stop the madness. 251-602-0630 or Playhouseinthepark.org

“American Idol” Stars Celebrate Motown

7 p.m., Feb. 24-25 $37 Erie Meyer Civic Center, 1930 West Second St., Gulf Shores Four American Idols come together for a fun-filled night of Motown music. The performers, including Season 6’s Melinda Doolittle, will take the stage for an exciting night of solo, duet, and ensemble performances. 251-968-1174

and Entertainment

PZK Center Dances

7-10 p.m., March 7 $5 PZK Hall, 17933 State Highway 104, Robertsdale Soft drinks and coffee furnished. Bring finger foods. First Friday, music by Dixie Music Man Bruli and third Friday music by Scott Langholff 251-947-8606 or 251-947-5849

15th Annual PCA Championship Rodeo

7:30 p.m., March 7-8 $12 adults, $6 ages 5-12, (under 5 free). Friday night: Kid’s night 12 and under free (with parent or guardian) Baldwin County Coliseum Fairgrounds, Robertsdale The Robertsdale Rotary Club presents their 15th Annual PCA Championship Rodeo. Advanced tickets sold at Summerdale Western Store, Central Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, Bryant Bank of Foley and Daphne locations. Sponsored by RAMRODEO.COM, Rotary International and Baldwin County EMC

Fairhope Arts & Crafts Festival

March 14-16 Downtown Fairhope A prestigious, highly juried show, featuring more than 230 exhibitors from throughout the country. Also part of the Arts & Crafts Weekend, the 36th Annual Spring Fever Chase takes place on Saturday morning, March 15. The 10k and 2-mile run/walk winds through beautiful downtown Fairhope overlooking Mobile Bay. Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce

Gulf Coast Renaissance Faire

10 a.m.-5 p.m., March 1-2 $10 adults, $5 children 12 and under, free for children 4 and under The Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Highway, Pensacola This two day festival will feature medieval jousting Knights, the King & Queen, swashbuckling swordsmen, storytellers, Arabian dancers, Gypsy dancers, magical wizards, medieval fighters, renaissance dancers, Irish dancers, medieval musicians, sword swallowers, jesters jugglers, fire breathers, renaissance food & drink, medieval elephant, camel & pony rides, renaissance games of skill, medieval merchants with thousands of wares and crafts and much more! Selected as one of the Southeast Tourism Society’s Top 20 events in the Southeast U.S. 850-429-8462 or gcrf.us or gcrenfaire@aol.com

Foley Walk-in Med Care & Foley Medical Weight Loss Awadhesh K. Gupta, M.D. 1440 N. McKenzie St. Foley, Al.

251-970-3400


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Will Hodge – PhD, PIP, LCSW 1404 W. 1st St, Gulf Shores, AL

251-948-3976 / 205-834-4622 Have you ever had an ongoing, never-ending argument with someone? You and your conflict partner just can’t seem to resolve the issue. You talk, and talk, and talk, and go around, and around in circles. What is the problem with this problem? The first answer is – communication skills. Resolving interpersonal conflicts requires skills that are different from our typical methods of communicating. Communication skills are learned behaviors, and many of these behaviors are ineffective and, perhaps, disastrous. Effective communication conveys respect for the other and respect for self. To have a complete communication, each person must give and receive. My friend says her husband sends but does not receive. Effective communication involves paraphrasing: using your own words to restate the message. This lets the speaker know that you really are listening. The second answer is - the lack of listening skills. We can take all sorts of classes and programs that teach talking, but few, if any, teach listening. Respect for the other person includes active listening. Active listening demonstrates that you receive what that person means. At times, we may not understand the meaning of the communication. We respond by saying, would you say that again. I do not quite understand. Active listening is assertive behavior, not aggressive. Assertive behavior includes the following: • Listening without interrupting • Promoting my goals and points-of-view without belittling or ridiculing others • Obtaining my wants or needs without interfering with what others’ may want or need The third answer is – digging a deeper hole. We often continue to argue, debate, and talk, talk, talk and go nowhere to reach a mutual understanding. The result is often anger, hurt, and frustration. The hole just grows and grows. What are we to do? Stop digging! We stop digging by listening for the emotional message that others communicate. The feeling content is the most important part of effective communication. We dig a deeper hole by concentrating on the words that people say rather than the emotions behind the words. Listening for the feeling and emotional content will deliver us from the perpetual rollercoaster of endless arguments. The core of most communication is a variation of five emotions – mad, sad, glad, scare, and hurt. Humans have these emotions all of the time, to some degree or other. We are usually unaware of the emotions that lie deep in our unconscious. The following is an example of listening only to the words. Bob - I really had a rough day. Doris - Did you have many clients? Bob - Yes. Doris - Are you ready for dinner? Bob - I’m not hungry. You go on and eat with the kids. Doris - I don’t like it when you just grump around. What is the matter with you? Bob - Nothing, I’m just not hungry. Doris has completely missed Bob’s feelings about his day. In addition, Bob is like many of us. He, too, does not have a clue about how he is feeling. That is the subject for the next article. The following is an example of listening for feelings and words. Bob - I really had a rough day. Doris - You sound rather frustrated. Did you have many clients? Bob - Yes, but I am not having much success with most of them. Doris - I didn’t know that things weren’t going very well. Bob – The oil spill has really knocked a hole in my business. Doris – Well, I knew something was going on, but I just did not know what. Bob - I didn’t want to worry you. Listening for feelings and emotions takes communication to a deeper level by conveying empathy and concern. Emotions really are the core of personal and business communication.


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Boomers

Will Hodge – PhD, PIP, LCSW 1404 W. 1st St, Gulf Shores, AL

251-948-3976 / 205-834-4622 What in the world is counseling? Counseling is a collaborative effort between individuals, couples, families, and the counselor. The Counseling Centre provides an open, supportive, and confidential environment for the citizens of South Baldwin County to resolve issues that frustrate satisfying and functional day-to-day living. Living in emotional pain is unnecessary. We can choose to remain in pain or to seek qualified assistance. Below are just a few of the problems that people often experience. • Symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression • Issues with, academic problems and relationships • Interpersonal difficulties, including, family problems, romantic relationship concerns, and assertiveness • Bereavement and grief related to the loss of a loved one through death, relationship breakups, divorce, and parental divorce, or family breakup. • Questions and confusion about identity, self-image, sexuality, gender, or religion • Experience with sexual assault, relationship violence, stalking, abuse, or other trauma • Thoughts of suicide, death, or hurting others • Loss of income or job • Adjustment to retirement You may wonder about the best time to seek counseling assistance. Perhaps the list below will help. • You are unhappy on most days or feel a sense of hopelessness. • You worry excessively or are constantly on edge. • You are unable to concentrate on work, schoolwork, or other activities. • You are unable to sleep at night or constantly feel tired. • You have experienced a change in your appetite or your weight. • You have experienced a loss of a relationship • You have increased your use of alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, or food. • You feel overwhelmed by what is going on in your life. • You are having thoughts about hurting yourself or someone else. Appointments with the Counseling Centre are available night and day, seven days a week. Rates are reasonable. Currently, we only accept cash or check.

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Yummy’s Corner By Cindy Dean

Have our parenting styles changed? Has your parenting style changed from the time our kids were little to now that we are raising our grandchildren? I think most of us have changed. When our children were little, we were overcautious about everything. We were always scared that something may happen and worried over a myriad of different things. When my kids were little, my parenting style was somewhat laid back. With my grandson, it is totally different. His personality is so different from his dad and uncle. I can’t take my eyes off of him or he will run through the house like a Tasmanian devil. I have tried several different ways to control him to no avail. I remember when I was younger

and they (my sons) acted up, my grandmother would always tell me, “It doesn’t matter how they act, just love them twice as hard.” Sometimes that was easier said than done. I know that some second-generation parents have changed their parenting style to be more fun and relaxed. I mean, if what our own children did while growing up didn’t kill us, nothing will. I can remember back when they were teenagers, the problems seemed to be insurmountable. But now that I know what’s coming and what to expect, I will be better prepared. If it went badly the first time, we can change the situation for the grandchildren. Maybe it will end up better this go round.

We all grew up with the Captain Kangaroo, Romper Room and Dr. Spock. Things seemed easier and simpler. Now there are so many people out there telling us all of these new ways to raise kids. I think that kids have been “raised” for so many years that no time era has been better than any other. We all know or remember the basics and with a little help along the way, patience, understanding and whole lot of love, we will raise up a whole new generation of beautiful, bright, loving, smart adults. If there are any other second-generation parents out there, feel free to join in on the conversation. Just email me at cdean@gulfcoastnewspapers.com.


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Boomers

6351 Monroe Street, Daphne, AL 36526 • 251-626-2030 • www.prudentialnichols.com

WE NEED YOUR PROPERTY TO SELL Here are some of the properties we have SOLD.

• 9096 County Road 99, Lillian SOLD D • 212 GrantS Way, OLFairhope • 10341 Tampary SOLD Street, Daphne • 6490 Haley'sSLane, Daphne OLD • 33507 US Highway 31, Spanish Fort LD SO • 32228 S Cinnteal OLD Place, Spanish Fort D • 373 Pecan Street, SOLFairhope • 32370 Wildflower Trail, Fort D SOLSpanish • 29588 StS George OLDStreet, Daphne D • 603 Gayfer Avenue, Fairhope SOL • 16431 Edgewater Circle, Loxley LD SO D • 32244 Woodpecker Court, Spanish Fort SOL D • 30405 Pinyon Drive, Fort SOLSpanish • 7367 Franklin SquareS Ct, LD ODaphne LDStreet, Daphne • 29691 St Basil SO • 9277 Marchand Avenue, SOLDDaphne

NEW LISTING

$389,900 – 12737 Clay City Road, Fairhope

MLS#207892/502183 – Sycamore Ridge is one of the most unique Fish River properties you will find. The home has been newly updated throughout with wood floors, new appliances, updated bathrooms, and beautiful door and molding finishes. Almost 900' of deck space overlooks 1.3 acres of peninsula seclusion. Water is deep enough for boat navigation. Perfect place to call home or for a weekend get-away. Contact Bo Nichols @ 251-621-1000.

• 19427 Fairfax Drive, Fairhope SOLD • 16694 PlumS Court, OLDLoxley D • 11151 Elysian Circle, SOLDaphne • 25574 Lakeland SOLD Drive, Loxley • 10240 PalaoSDrive, OLDLillian D • 1262 Frances Street, SOLDaphne • 29883 OLD Street, Daphne SGregor • 35082 South OLDRoad, Stapleton SSpring D Mobile • 7051 North Huntington SOLCourt, • 9510 Aspen D Daphne SOLCircle, • 857 Sea Cliff OLDFairhope SDrive, D • 310 St Charles Court, SOLFairhope • 35701 County Road 39, Stapleton SOLD D • 103 Dejuzan Circle, SOLDaphne • 1 Bens Bluff Street,SSpanish OLD Fort • 103 Dunbar LD Daphne SOLoop,

NEW LISTING

$269,900 – 11678 Arlington Blvd, Spanish Fort

MLS#207931/502218 – Pristine home in total move-in condition. Has 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms (4th bedroom is currently being used as an office). Custom throughout. Beautiful tile floors, granite, and fireplace in the family room. Fenced yard. Contact The Nichols Family Team @ 251-621-1000.

NEW LISTING

$235,000 – 1509 Vassar Court, Mobile

MLS#208493/502661 – Great location! Split bedroom plan with 2 master bedrooms, each with a full bath (one of which has a jacuzzi tub). Tile in foyer and beautiful hardwood floors in family room and hallway. Separate dining room with raised ceiling and crown molding. Large kitchen with center island and breakfast nook. Whole house generation. A must see! Priced for a quick sale. Contact The Lew Bryant @ 251-626-2030.

$999,000 – 6987 US Highway 90, Daphne

MLS#205051/259377 – Great location for commercial/business/restaurant, close to I-10. Contact The Kaye/Siemssen Team @ 251-621-1000.

An independently owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates LLC. Prudential, the Prudential logo and the Rock symbol are registered service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license with no affiliation of Prudential. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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e l l o r coa r e h T ster ride Mid February - Mid March 2014

By louise thompson After the death of my husband, life changed so rapidly and so completely. There were no more “date nights.” In fact, there were a lot of “no mores.” Someone once told me to go on a date. A date! Go on a date — are you kidding? What do you do? Where do you go and how do you act? After all, I was married when I was a teenager and after being married for almost 50 years, well, that made me, uh … 50 years older. A dear family friend named Mini had retired and moved to the lake. She and her husband Malcolm had a lovely house, a boat and all the pleasures you look forward to when you retire. They insisted I come for a visit. They had a neighbor who was recently widowed and purchased a cottage on the lake. My friends certainly did a good job in playing “cupid.” I did go for a visit and enjoyed fishing and boating, and I just happened to meet this new neighbor. Our first meeting was pleasant enough; Malcolm was at the dock fishing with a friend, and Mini and I went to the dock with our fishing poles. As we went down the steps leading to the dock, she told me that Malcolm’s fishing buddy was Clarence, the newly widowed guy at the lake. The four of us laughed and talked and caught catfish and crappie. Each time I visited my friends, he just happened to be there. It’s strange how things like that work out. I went for another visit shortly after my birthday, and he just happened to be at his cottage. During this trip, Clarence stopped by my friend’s house to visit me. That was different. He asked if he could take me out for my birthday. I said, “Like a date?”

for a

We laughed and he said, “Yes, like a date.” I had not been on a date in more than 50 years and had no idea what to do. “We’ll go to dinner, and afterward, I’ll bring you home,” he said. Mini spoke up and said, “Your curfew is 9 p.m.; not one minute later.” We laughed again. Clarence arrived promptly at 4:30 p.m. As we walked to his truck, we both had a nervous giggle. He opened the door for me, and that, too, was a first. I thought he might not be a bad guy; I’ll wait and see. As he backed out of the driveway, my friend reminded us that we had a curfew. Clarence could not believe she was serious, but I assured him that she would be waiting for us at 9 p.m. sharp. We drove for almost an hour before we reached the steak and seafood restaurant where he had reservations. During our drive, we talked and talked. He talked about his wife and how much he missed her. I realized then that loneliness was not just

Clarence on his boat at the lake.

ne w

widow

for women — men are lonely after losing their wife, too. We enjoyed a delicious meal and I thought, “How nice it is to have someone to share a meal with.” I had missed those date nights, and this was a special treat for me. He paid the bill. I really had not thought about that — I was in the habit of paying my own way. We checked the time, and he said, “We need to head back to the lake if I must get you home by 9 p.m.” So away we went, laughing and talking all the way home. Sure enough, when we pulled into the driveway, we could see lights were on in the house. Fortunately, we were not past our curfew. Many times I have heard, “laughter is good for the soul.” We both laughed like we had not laughed in years. My first date after my husband’s death was filled with fun and laughter — one I will never forget.


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Art Market takes place March 1 The Gulf Coast Arts Alliance Art Market, in partnership with the City of Gulf Shores, will be March 1 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. at Meyer Park, 400 E. 22nd Ave., Gulf Shores. Original art by local and regional artists will be the main focus of the Art Market. Visitors can expect to see pottery, paintings in all mediums, jewelry, textile, carved wood and metal arts. Crosswinds Church will have hands-on art activities for children including mosaics, pin point stencil and clay pot painting. The Four Winds Barbershop Quartet will stroll the grounds entertaining with their unique sound. Other entertainers will liven the day with music and storytelling. Concessions will be offered by the GCAA. One of the exhibiting artists is Linda Carroll Gamel who is a resident of Boaz, Alabama, but spends much of her time in Coastal Alabama where her art is available in local shops. Gamel always knew she could paint, but it wasn’t until her son was deployed to Iraq in 1996 that her sleepless nights led her to dabbling with acrylics. “In 2003, I began to paint almost every day,” Gamel said. What had previously been note cards for friends became canvas art. Gamel said she enjoys painting what she calls “folk art” scenes depicting the old South. Her work has expanded to include notecards, angelic art, beach scenes and folk art on pieces of board salvaged from old barns. Her use of bright contrasting color has made her

Linda Gamel original work very popular with collectors The GCAA Art Market will be held March 1, April 5, June 7, August 2, September 6, October 4 and November 1, 2014 at Meyer Park in Gulf Shores. For information about the GCAA Art Market, email gulfcoastartsalliance@ gmail.com or call 251-986-8222 or 251-223-3970. The GCAA website is GulfCoastArtsAlliance.com.

Happenings at the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach Photography Exhibit

New photography exhibit "Of Mud and Men" by db waltrip runs Feb. 24-March 31. An artist reception is set for Fri., March 21 from 5-7 p.m. Meet the artist, enjoy drinks and hors d'oeuvres and browse the gallery and gift shop.

Chili Night Hot Shop Blowout

Hot Shop Blowout on Fri., Feb. 21 from 5-7 p.m. will feature a glass blowing demonstration by Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach resident glass artists Adam Burges and Kerry Parks. Guests are invited to bring their lawn chairs, blankets and coolers to enjoy a night of art in action on the beautiful grounds of the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach. Purchase a hand-made ceramic mug, created by resident pottery artist Abby Leach, and receive free chili from Baumhower's Restaurant. The Center is located at 26389 Canal Road, Orange Beach.For more information, call (251) 981-ARTS (2787) or visit CoastalArtsCenter.com. Photo courtesy of the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach

Resident Glass Artist Adam Burges forms art from molten glass in The Hot Shop, part of the cultural campus located at the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach.)


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Flashback 40: Feb. 17-March 16 uThis month in 1974 From various Internet sources FEB.

17

49 die in stampede for seats at soccer match, Cairo, Egypt

FEB.

17 FEB.

17

Carol Mann wins LPGA Naples Golf Classic Robert K. Preston, a disgruntled U.S. Army private, buzzes the White House with a stolen helicopter.

FEB.

19

1st American Music Award: Helen Reddy & Jim Croce win

FEB.

20 FEB.

25

Cher files for separation from husband Sonny Bono Veronica & Colin Scargill (England) begin tandem bicycle ride a record 18,020 miles around the world, completed on August 27, 1975

FEB.

26

Gold hits record $188 an ounce in Paris

MARCH

1

Watergate grand jury indicts 7 presidential aides

MARCH

2

1st class postage raised to 10 cents from 8 cents

MARCH

2

Grand jury concludes President Nixon is involved in Watergate cover-up

MARCH

3

George Foreman KOs Ken Norton

MARCH

8

The TV show Wonder Woman aired this week

MARCH

16

1st performance at new Grand Ole Opry House at Opryland in Nashville


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Protecting your landscape from wildlife damage By Melinda Myers

T

hey’re cute, they’re furry and they love to eat — your landscape that is. If you are battling with rabbits, deer, groundhogs or other wildlife, don't give up. And if you are lucky enough to be wildlife-free at the moment, be vigilant and prepared to prevent damage before these beautiful creatures move into your landscape to dine. Anyone who has battled wildlife knows the frustration and difficulty involved in controlling them. Your best defense is a fence. A 4-foot-high fence anchored tightly to the ground will keep out rabbits. Five-foot high fences around small garden areas will usually keep out deer. They seem to avoid these small confined spaces. The larger the area the more likely deer will enter. Woodchucks are more difficult. They will dig under or climb over the fence. You must place the fence at least 12 inches below the soil surface with 4 to 5 feet above the ground. Make sure gates are also secured from animals. Some communities allow electric fences that provide a slight shock to help keep deer out of the landscape. Another option is the wireless deer fence. The system uses plastic posts

with wire tips charged by AA batteries. The plastic tip is filled with a deer attractant. When the deer nuzzles the tip it gets a light shock, encouraging it to move on to other feeding grounds. Scare tactics have been used for many years. Motion sensitive sprinklers, blow up owls, clanging pans and rubber snakes strategically placed around a garden may help scare away unwanted critters. Unfortunately, urban animals are used to noise and may not be alarmed. Move and alternate the various scare tactics for more effective control. The animals won't be afraid of an owl that hasn't moved in two weeks. Homemade and commercial repellents can also be used. Make sure they are safe to use on food crops if treating fruits and vegetables. You’ll have the best results if applied before the animals start feeding. It is easier to prevent damage than break old feeding patterns. Look for natural products like those found in Messina Wildlife’s Animal Stopper line. They are made of herbs and smell good, so they repel animals without repelling you and your guests. Live trapping can be inhumane and should be a last option. Babies can be separated from their parents, animals can be released in unfamiliar territory,

and trapped animals can suffer from heat and a lack of food and water. Plus, once you catch the animal, you need to find a place to release it. The nearby parks, farms and forests already have too many of their own animals and therefore they don't want yours. The key to success is variety, persistence, and adaptability. Watch for animal tracks, droppings and other signs that indicate wildlife have moved into your area. Apply repellents and install scare tactics and fencing before the animals begin feeding. Try a combination of tactics, continually monitor for damage and make changes as needed. And when you feel discouraged, remember that gardeners have been battling animals in the garden long before us. Gardening expert, TV/radio host, author & columnist Melinda Myers has more than 30 years of horticulture experience and has written over 20 gardening books, including Can’t Miss Small Space Gardening. She hosts the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV and radio segments and is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Myers’ web site, www.melindamyers. com, features gardening videos, gardening tips, podcasts, and more.


Food for Thought: Brunch recipes By Dr. Linda Mitchell Columnist Cold weather days, rainy weekends or lazy mornings all are improved with brunch. I was in New York with friends recently and we searched for the perfect Sunday Brunch – delicious food, interesting atmosphere, and great service at an affordable price. We checked menus, read reviews, and looked at photos of food until we were drooling before we decided on Pigalle’s on the corner of 48th and 8th. Once there, selection was hard but we finally decided on Croque Madame, Quiche Lorraine and Chocolate Croissants. When our waiter wished us Bon Appetit, he knew it was a given. The term brunch originated in Britain in 1895 to describe a Sunday meal for “Saturday-night carousers.” It was such a

Croque Madame

(fancy grilled cheese with ham, an egg, and Bechamel Sauce) Ingredients n Bechamel Sauce (recipe to follow) n 8 slices sandwich bread n 4 teaspoons dijon mustard n 1 cup grated cheese n 1/2 pound thinly sliced ham n 4 eggs, fried Make Sandwich by spreading 2 Tablespoons Bechamel sauce over 4 slices bread. Sprinkle each with cheese. Spread mustard on the other side and top with ham. Melt butter in a skillet and cook sandwiches, turning once. Remove sandwiches from skillet and place in baking pan. Top sandwiches with Bechamel sauce and broil until sauce is bubbling. Top with a fried egg.

novel and popular idea that it was written about in newspapers and magazines with glowing descriptions like this one from Hunter’s Weekly. “Brunch is cheerful, sociable and inciting. It puts you in a good temper, it makes you satisfied with yourself and your fellow beings, it sweeps away the worries and cobwebs of the week.” One writer even claimed that it “promoted human happiness.” Something this Dr. Linda Mitchell life-changing should be on our regular to-do list. Here are a few recipes to get you going.

Bechamel Sauce

(don’t be intimidated by this, it simply requires some stirring and in minutes it is ready to top your sandwich) Ingredients n 3 tablespoons unsalted butter n 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour n 2 cups whole or half and half milk n Salt and pepper to taste n 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (optional) n 1/3 cups grated cheese Melt over moderately low heat, then whisk in flour and stir, whisking, 3 minutes. Whisk in milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Reduce heat and simmer, whisking

occasionally, 5 minutes. Whisk in salt, pepper, nutmeg, and cheese until melted. Remove from heat and cover surface directly with a sheet of wax paper.


Mid February - Mid March 2014

Easy Chocolate Croissants Ingredients n 1 egg n 1 tablespoon cold water n 1 package puff pastry sheets, thawed (found in grocer’s freezer) n 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips n 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar

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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or non-stick mat. Whisk together the egg and water. On a lightly floured surface, unfold the pastry sheet and dust the top with flour. Roll the sheet into a 16-inch square. Cut the square into two halves, then each half into four rectangles. Cut each rectangle diagonally into two triangles. You should have 16 tri-

angles. Place about 2 ½ teaspoons of the chocolate chips down the center of each triangle. Roll each one up, starting at the wide end. Place the croissants seam-side down on baking sheet. The tip of the triangle should be tucked under. Bend at the edges to create a crescent shape. Brush tops lightly with egg wash. Bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes. Sprinkle with sugar and serve hot.

process until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, about 10 seconds. With the machine running, add the ice water through the feed tube and pulse quickly 5 or 6 times, or until the dough comes together and starts to pull away from the sides of the container. Gather the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disk, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. To make the dough by hand, com-

bine the flour, salt, and butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the water 1 tablespoon at a time and mix until the dough comes together and is no longer dry. Form into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface according to the recipe, fit it into the pan, and allow to rest again in the refrigerator before baking.

Easy Quiche Lorraine Ingredients n Flaky Crust, (recipe below or use store-bought crust) n 6 ounces bacon, cut into narrow strips n 2 large eggs n 2 large egg yolks n 1 1/4 cups half-and-half or whipping cream n Salt and pepper to taste n 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (optional) n 1 cup grated Gruyere or Swiss Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Roll out the dough or use the store-bought pie crust to fit into a 9-inch pie pan or fluted tart pan. Bake until the crust is starting to brown, it will finish baking once you have it filled with quiche. Cook the bacon until crisp. Pat it dry and arrange it evenly over the bottom of the baked crust. Beat the eggs, yolks, and half and half. Add the remaining ingredients and whisk to combine. For extra nutrients add ¼ cup baby spinach. Pour into the crust and bake until golden, about 30 minutes.

Flaky Crust n 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour n 1/4 teaspoon salt n 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cut into pieces n 1 to 2 tablespoons ice water, or more as needed To make the dough in a food processor, combine the flour, salt, and butter in the processor and


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Eye Problems and Warning Signs for our Boomers The following signs and symptoms can indicate a medical emergency. In most cases, you should see your eye doctor immediately if you experience:

1.

A flood of spots and floaters in your field of vision. Usually, spots and floaters are due to a benign, age-related condition called vitreous detachment. This occurs when the eye's gel-like interior liquefies and separates from the retina, where vision processing occurs. A sudden onset of spots and floaters also can be caused by a serious, sight-threatening tear or detachment of the retina. If you suddenly see a shower of spots and floaters, visit your optometrist or ophthalmologist immediately.

2.

A sensation that a dark curtain has settled across your field of view. This could be caused by a retinal detachment, which occurs when the retina separates from the underlying layer of nourishing blood vessels (choroid). If the retina is not reattached within hours, vision loss can be permanent.

3. 4.

Sudden eye pain, redness, nausea and vomiting. These symptoms can signal a sudden (acute) attack of narrow-angle glaucoma, which can permanently damage the eye's optic nerve. Immediate treatment is required to prevent permanent vision loss. A gradual (or sudden) narrowing of your field of vision, leaving you with the ability to see only directly in front of you. This could mean you have developed glaucoma that damages your optic nerve, with accompanying vision loss at the "edges" of your field of view. Without intervention, vision loss will continue and permanent blindness may result.

5.

Cloudy and blurred eyesight, "halos" around lights at night, loss of bright color vision. These vision changes may be due to cataracts. Cataracts tend to worsen gradually over time and are not a medical emergency. Nevertheless, as your eye's natural lens continues to cloud with aging, you eventually will go blind unless you have cataract surgery that replaces your cloudy lens with a man-made intraocular lens (IOL).

Terrezza Optical is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care to all of our patients, year around residents and Winter Visitors, alike! We welcome you to stop in and meet our staff and we look forward to providing services for all of your vision and optical needs at our expanded Foley location just 3 blocks south of Hwy 98, 316 S. McKenzie St (Hwy 59 South) situated between Good Year Tire Center and the Alabama Credit Union. Call us today 251943-5115 to schedule your visit.


Mid February - Mid March 2014

Boomers

WALK INS WELCOME

SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE www.TerrezzaOptical.com www.facebook.com/TerrezzaandAssociatesFoley

$50.00 off Progressive Lenses

$25.00 off Transition Lenses

$25.00 off Sunglasses

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