BOOM Magazine October 2016 by FAMILY Magazines of Michiana

OCTOBER 2016

Stand

Guard

Protect Your Breast Health Early and Often

Butternut Squash Soup Halloween Cider

When

Parenting

Roles

Introducing this years featured boutiques!

Get your tickets at www.MichianaSassy.com

Homemade Apple Cider Donuts, Cider and U-Pick at Corey Lake Orchards Three Rivers, Michigan www.coreylakeorchards.com

boom

What's inside

EVERY MONTH

boom HOBBIES

Letter From The Publisher

Best Apps For Boomers

Contributors & Testimonials

Before The Feature

BOOM Timeline

Craft Beer Treats, Without The Tricks

BOOM Sudoku

boom PETS 9

Loving Animals Are In Need Of Families

By: Margo & Jim Bell By: Chuck Bergman

boom RECIPE

boom TRAVELER

Butternut Squash Soup By: Katie & Theresa Slott

Day Trip: Monroe, Michigan By: Phyllis Rose

boom BOOK REVIEW

boom LIFE

Helping Hands

When Parenting Roles Reverse

Old Age: A Beginner’s Guide By Michael Kinsley Reviewed By: Bruce Runnels

boom HEALTHY LIVING 10

Stand Guard – Protect Your Breast Health Early And Often

By: Samir Patel, MD, Kelly Mailloux, RN, BSN & Raven Popoloski, BS

By: Kim Mower

By: Gayla Grace

28 Trick-Or-Treat! Score Inexpensive Treats This Halloween

By: Rachel Moshman

boom HOME 26

Fall Into Beautiful Door Wreaths

cover photographer Ann Reiff is one of Michiana’s Premiere Real Life Photographers. Her heart and soul define her style, as she is able to capture the moments we wish to always remember. Ann shoots all varieties of sessions at her studio in Southwest Michigan and also loves doing shoots on location. Contact her at: www.studio513east.com • ann@studio513east.com • 269-228-0373

boom

FROM THE PUBLISHER

an you believe it’s October already? What has happened to the time this year? The weather this summer was so nice and continued so long into September that it doesn’t seem possible that it’s really fall. And, yet it is.

When I think of October, I think of cider and doughnuts, colorful leaves, wood fires in the fireplace and pumpkins. And, of course, the month ends with witches and goblins on Halloween. We are lucky to live in this part of the country where the fall foliage ranges from beautiful to absolutely gorgeous, with brilliant yellows, bright oranges and deep reds. When I lived in Texas, the only trees that changed colors were the Bradford Pears that had been planted on the IBM campus. I really missed the beauty of the maples and oaks and the other trees we have here. The extended summer weather has really delayed the changing leaves this fall. I am usually saddened in August when I spy the first reddish leaves on a tree. This year it was well into September before I saw any. It will be interesting to see what the colors will be this year. It may be Halloween before we see the prime viewing here rather than Columbus Day as usual. And, that could add to the list of reasons why I like Halloween. I think Halloween is one of my favorite holidays. For me it is purely a fun day. No big family dinners to cook, no gifts to buy, no travel necessary, just dress up in costume and eat candy. What could be better? When I lived in Texas, I lived in a development with lots of children. I loved handing out treats to the kids and seeing what crazy costumes they were wearing. Where I live now there are no trick-or-treaters, which is sad. However, I am lucky enough to be invited to an annual Witches Brew where we all dress like witches and do crazy scavenger hunts, have cackling contests and bring Halloween themed treats to eat. If you are out an about in Edwardsburg around Halloween, watch out for the ladies in black pointy hats! As for this month’s issue of BOOM Magazine, we have a helpful article about getting inexpensive treats for Halloween. Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, there is an article on protecting your breast health. There are some good tips for grandparents as well as a story on the Art of Caregiving. There is a great recipe for Butternut Squash Soup, a story about Craft Beer Treats and much more. I hope you enjoy your October and our October BOOM Magazine. And, don’t forget to get a mammogram!

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER: Sue Heinrich Sue@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

Managing Editor:

Jessica Haviland Jessy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

AD COORDINATOR & INSIDE SALES MANAGER

Amanda Oiler Amanda@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN Manager: Zuzanna Zmud Zuzanna@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

EVENT COORDINATOR Denise M. Longley denise@michianafamilymagazine.com

MEDICAL EDITOR: Dr. Jesse Hsieh

Distribution Managers: Chad Haviland

BOOM Magazine is a division of Michiana Family Publishing, LLC established in 2016. All rights reserved. We would love to hear from you! Please submit press releases, event information and inquiries to: Jessy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com The FAMILY Magazines P.O. BOX 577 Granger, IN 46530 PH: 269.228.8295 • FX: 574.217.4700 www.MichianaMom.com Permission from the publisher is required for any reproduction or reprint of this publication. Read BOOM Magazine online each month! Go to www.MichianaMom.com and flip the pages, October 2016 Volume 5: Number 8

LOOK WHO’s TALKING

follow us on Twitter, and become our fan on Facebook. @MichianaBoom @michianaboom www.pinterest.com/boommagazine/ MichianaBoom

OCTOBER 2016 | boom

boom / contributors

boom / testimonials

Margo Bell Margo Bell, a first-wave Boomer, has a B.S. degree in Biology from Arkansas State University and worked in medical and marine biology research before making a mid-life career change to writing for adults and children. Margo is a former magazine editor and has published over 50 articles and features in newspapers and magazines. She and her husband Jim live in South Bend and have two grandchildren. Photo Credit: Classic Image Photography

Phyllis Rose With a love for the English language and travel, Phyllis Rose became an English teacher, freelance writer and traveler. She taught high school English for 29 years while also working as a freelance writer and editor. Retiring from teaching, she turned her part-time writing career into a full-time one, writing for newspapers and magazines. Her favorite freelance project has been writing a day trip column, giving readers ideas for places to go, things to do, and restaurants to try in the Michiana area. She also loves international travel, especially to Europe. When not writing or traveling, she loves to read, do counted cross-stitch projects and plan her next travel adventure.

The beer articles are very interesting and they give me an idea of what to try next at a local brewery.” – Donna S.

What I love about BOOM Magazine is how much it caters to the baby boomers and our interests.” – Mary-Ann R.

I keep the latest issue of BOOM Magazine on my coffee table each month. The cover always looks fantastic!” – Leeann G.

Chuck Bergman Chuck Bergman is a local michiana marketing professional and an avid home brewer. He fell in love with craft beer a few years ago and has never looked at beer the same way. He encourages everyone to support local breweries and be willing to “experience new tastes.”

Katie & Theresa Slott are sisters-in-law who write the food blog, Cooking for the Fam, where they share lots of tips, family-favorite recipes and meal plans. For more recipes like the one in this issue, or to see step-bystep photos of this recipe, check out their website, www.cookingforthefam.com.

Don't forget!

Keep up with us on Facebook by liking our page just for Boomers! boom | OCTOBER 2016

OCTOBER Events Fest, 10:00 A.M., 1 Granger Granger Community Church

2 Oktoberfest Begins Out Zumba, 3 Pink 5:30 P.M., Notre Dame Stadium County Bicentennial Torch Relay, 4 Elkhart 8:30 A.M., Downtown Elkhart Fiddler On The Roof, 8:00 P.M., The Round 5 Barn Theatre At Amish Acres-Nappanee

Su M Tu W

Time For The Arts 2016, 6 Tea 3:00 P.M., Morris Inn-

University Of Notre Dame Oktoberfest, 5:00 P.M., Downtown Bremen Bicentennial Birthday Bash, 11:00 A.M., Bendix Woods County Park-New Carlisle

Mo Tu

8 Yoga, 5:30 P.M., 10 Meditation Elkhart Environmental City & Tapas, 11 Tennis 5:30 P.M., South Bend Racquet Club

F Sa

Miracle Worker, 8:00 P.M., The Round 19 The Barn Theatre At Amish Acres-Nappanee

Mystery At The Mansion: Inside Job, 5:00 P.M., The History Museum-South Bend

Gala, 6:00 P.M., Knollwood 21Gorgeous Country Club-Granger

Every Play Counts, 2:00 P.M., St. Joseph Health Systems

Ghouls And Goodies-Goodies And Crafts, 2:00 P.M., Battell Community Center-Mishawaka Free Showing Of “Young Frankenstein”, 8:00 P.M., Goshen Theater

28 California, 29 Hotel 7:30 P.M., The Lerner-Elkhart

Decorative Pumpkins

Showing Of “Rocky”, 14 Free 8:00 P.M., Goshen Theater Dressing Downton: Changing For Changing Times, All Day, 15-31 Fashion The History Museum South Bend

Top Picks For Pet Costumes

Market Night, 4:30 P.M., The Purple Porch Co-op-South Bend

BOOM Magazine’s

31Happy Halloween! OCTOBER 2016 | boom

Welcome Fall

Halloween Pumpkins

(www.theperfectpalette.com)

(www.holidappy.com)

Embellished Burlap (www.timewashed.com)

Famous Horror Movies Of All Time - - - - - - - - - -

Frankenstein Dracula Creature From The Black Lagoon The Blob The Fly It! The Invisible Man The Mummy King Kong Mystery Of The Wax Museum

How-To Can Homemade Applesauce Supplies: - Water Bath Canner - Canning Jars - Canning Seals And Rings - Jar Lifter And Canning Funnel - Large Stock Pot - Bowls - Large Spoons - Sharp Knife - Towels And Dish Cloths Ingredients: - Apples (About 21 Pounds Per Canner Load Of 7 Quarts) - Sugar - Cinnamon Directions: (Food Mill Instructions) 1. Wash and quarter apples and place in a large pot. Don’t overfill your pot as you need to be able to stir the apples even before they have softened. 2. Add one cup of water to help prevent sticking. Cover and simmer until the apples are tender. Stir often. 3. Press through your food mill. Put the apples skin’s cores and all into the hopper, press down as you turn the crank and the skins will be pushed out the end while your applesauce will emerge from the strainer. (Non-Food Mill Instructions) 1. Peel and core your apples before cooking and quarter apples. Place slices in a large pot and add one cup of water to prevent sticking. Cook until tender and stirring often. 2. Mash with a potato masher.

Finishing Applesauce 1. Sweeten applesauce to your liking with sugar and add some cinnamon. Taste the applesauce several times before adding more. 2. Reheat sauce to a boil, stirring often. 3. Fill hot jars with applesauce leaving ½ inch head space. 4. Wipe the rims clean, remove any air bubbles and place your lids. Canning Begins! The final step is to process in a waterbath canner. Please see chart to determine processing time:

Process Pints 0-1000 feet needs 15 minutes 1000 - 6000 feet needs 20 minutes above 6000 feet needs 25 minutes

Process Quarts 0-1000 feet needs 20 minutes 1000 - 3000 feet needs 25 minutes 3000 - 6000 feet needs 30 minutes above 6000 feet needs 35 minutes (Canning recipe and information found at www.simplycanning.com) boom | OCTOBER 2016

boom

HOBBIES

Best Apps For Boomers

Instant Heart Rate (iPhone) FREE You don’t need a dedicated heart rate monitor to get your pulse! Download Instant Heart Rate today and use your camera’s flash to see how healthy you are!

Pillboxie (iPad & iPhone) $1.99 Pillboxie is the easy way to remember your meds. Other med reminder apps are either too complicated or just downright boring. Pillboxie is easy because it lets you visually manage your meds. Scheduling a reminder is as easy as dropping a pill into a pillbox.

Yesterday USA (iPhone & iPad) FREE Unlike traditional radio stations that broadcast directly to members of the general public, Yesterday USA only transmits through the internet and satellite radio. Therefore, their actions do not constitute as a “Public Performance” of any kind. This is for music fans of old time radio shows from the 1920s to the 1950s. 8

OCTOBER 2016 | boom

Park’n’Forget (iPhone) $0.99 This application helps you in finding your parked cars. All you have to do is press a button to save your car’s location and forget about it. In case you get lost, launch the app and hit “Locate Car” button. You’ll get directed towards your car. The app also lets you take the picture of your parked car to better help you locate it.

Lumosity (iPhone) FREE Challenge your memory, attention and more. Lumosity combines 25+ cognitive games into a daily training program that challenges your brain. Games adapt to your unique performances, helping you stay challenged in a wide variety of cognitive tasks.

boom

PETS

The Elkhart Humane Society Needs Your Help Loving animals are in need of families! BLUE: Blue is the perfect name for me with my

gorgeous blue and white coat! I'm a 15-month-old Terrier/ Pitbull mix and I have been neutered. I look like a big, solid boy, but I'm really just a big teddy bear. I enjoy playing with toys and playing fetch. I know how to sit and I am housetrained. I can't wait to meet a new family!

LILLY: I'm Lilly, a Coonhound/Treeing Walker mix. I'm

nearly seven years old and I have been spayed. I'm a sweet, friendly gal who enjoys car rides, walks and playing in water. I can be active at times, but I just might crawl in your lap when I'm ready to relax. I have been housetrained and I'm ready to learn some commands.

WEDNESDAY: Meow, Meow, Meow. I

like to talk. I am a very social girl at just a year old and I have been spayed. I am a petite little tortoiseshell with an elegant walk. I like other cats and live with them at the shelter. I am curious and like to know what is going on. I want to be helpful to my people. I am good with ribbon and string and all sorts of things. If you need a furry assistant, I am the girl for you

Volunteers Needed: The Elkhart County Humane Society is always looking for new volunteers to join their team. There are so many ways to make a difference. Give Janet a call at 574-848-4225 to learn more.

54687 County Road 19 Bristol, IN 46507

(574) 848-4225

www.elkharthumanesociety.org

Boom Sudoku ANSWERS

Find the puzzles on page 30! boom | OCTOBER 2016

boom

Healthy Living

Protect Your Breast Health Early and Often By: Samir Patel, MD, Board-Certified, Fellowship-Trained Diagnostic Radiologist Radiology, Inc. Kelly Mailloux, RN, BSN, Memorial Regional Breast Care Center Raven Popoloski, BS, Memorial Regional Breast Care Center

Pink! Pink! Pink! October is Breast Cancer Awareness

rge Take Cha lth ea of Your H

reasts. with your b r ia il m fa e B st awareness Having brea ny signs tching for a includes wa ude: s. Signs incl or symptom felt, ening that is a lump/thick e ckering of th dimpling/pu ness r nipple, red breast and/o le or clear nipp and bloody omen should discharge. W d if ese signs an watch for th or ur physician noted, call yo nter. reast care ce your local b

OCTOBER 2016 | boom

Month, and that means it’s an opportunity to learn more about your breast health. There is an abundance of information that is often misunderstood, and some information that just creates more confusion. We’ll help clear up uncertainties so you can feel more confident about making the best decisions for your body. The first question by many is “What should I do?” To help answer this, you should first look at your age, family history and your breast health. One in eight women will develop breast cancer during her lifetime. The best way to combat breast cancer is through mammography –– the only test proven to reduce breast cancer deaths by up to 40 percent.

The American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imaging continues to recommend yearly screenings for women 40 and older. It is important to start at age 40 as one in six breast cancers occur in women 40 to 49. These women also have the most years of life to lose if breast cancer is not detected early. Having a mammogram every year versus every other year will decrease breast cancer deaths by 30 percent. Screenings should continue as long as a woman is in good health and has a life expectancy of 10 years or longer. It might surprise you, but research shows that most women who develop breast cancer do not have a family history of breast cancer. Yet, it is still important to know your family history of cancer, from your mother and father's family. This includes not only family members with breast cancer, but also those with ovarian, colon, endometrial and other cancers, and their age at diagnosis. Cancer centers with a dedicated oncology genetic counselor can help determine the best screening plan for you based on your family history of cancer, and whether genetic testing for hereditary cancer may be helpful for you and your family. A screening mammogram is done for women who have no symptoms or concerns. You will need to let your breast care center know which doctor should receive your report. No order is needed from your doctor for a screening mammogram, and most insurances cover screening mammograms. A diagnostic mammogram or ultrasound is done for an individual who has a symptom: breast lump, thickening, pain in only one area, dimpling, puckering or nipple discharge that is clear or bloody. You will need a diagnostic mammogram or ultrasound if you are called back for additional imaging where an area of concern is found on your screening mammogram. If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, it is key to turn to a provider who offers support through the breast cancer journey beginning with a treatment summary and an individualized care plan. Also important is having a nurse navigator. Some breast care centers offer nurse navigators who follow a woman from the time of the initial mammogram through biopsy, results, surgery and continued follow-up care. As part of the care process, nurse navigators provide information and community resources for healing and wellness during and after treatment. It is important for you to get a yearly mammogram! You are worth it! •••

Can’t Afford a Mammogram? Help is Available Some women say, “I don’t have insurance” or “I know someone who does not have insurance.” There is help. For women who do not have insurance or are underinsured, there are many programs available if you meet the guidelines. One program is through the Indiana State Department of Health: the Breast and Cervical Cancer Program, which covers a breast exam, Pap test and mammogram. The Indiana Breast Cancer Awareness Trust has funds available through the sale of the breast cancer license plate, which provides coverage for mammogram services. There may be a program that best meets your needs. If you need a mammogram but are unsure of coverage, please contact your local breast care center.

boom | OCTOBER 2016

boom

HOBBIES

BEFORE THE FEATURE By: Margo and Jim Bell

We remember the “old” days of going to the movies (or “picture show” as we might have said Down South). The marquee with its running lights drew us into the grand theater with an elaborate interior, balcony, velvet curtains unveiling perhaps a thinner one that finally opened to the screen. Ushers wore uniforms and carried flashlights to help you find a seat once the room darkened, and every now and then they passed a can down the rows to collect change for the March of Dimes to fight polio. Isolated cry rooms had their own speakers. If you were lucky, you could be there for the door prize drawing. Popcorn came in red-and-white boxes rather than tubs. Your little sister might have lost a baby tooth when she bit into a Tootsie Roll, which probably cost a dime.

OCTOBER 2016 | boom

Finally, though, there was the prelude of coming attractions, a newsreel, and a cartoon or two before the feature—sometimes a double feature— was presented. In honor of these, try answering the following, even if it’s just a wild guess: Image Courtesy: en.wikipedia.org

1. In cartoon shorts, who was considered “A Man of a Thousand Voices?” a. Bob Clampett b. Chuck Jones c. Friz Freleng d. Mel Blanc e. Tex Avery 2. What was the first cartoon animal character to gain fame? a. Felix the Cat b. Steamboat Willie c. Mickey Mouse d. Bugs Bunny 3. What was the first cartoon with synchronized sound? a. Gertie the Dinosaur b. Dizzy Dishes c. Sinkin’ in the Bathtub d. King Kong e. Steamboat Willie 4. In the Road Runner cartoons, what was Wile E. Coyote’s supplier to help him catch the Road Runner? a. Acme b. Preposterous Pet Products c. Birdie Grabber d. Scare-‘N’-Snare 5. What would Tweety Bird say? I t’ot I saw: a. Twee widdle bears b. A wascally wabbit c. A puddy tat d. Sufferin’ succotash

7. Cartoon skunk Pepe Le Pew ardently pursues a black cat with an accidental white stripe down her back. What is her name? a. Suzette b. Bon-Bon c. Cheri d. Charmante e. Penelope 8. What two facts distinguish Walt Disney’s 1932 cartoon Flowers and Trees? It was the first cartoon short to: a. Be produced in three-color Technicolor. b. Win an Oscar. c. Incorporate a full orchestra in the soundtrack. d. Use a major star for a singing voice. 9. Who was the voice of 1930s cartoon flapper Betty Boop? a. Kate Wright b. Mae Questel c. Margie Hines d. Sandy Fox e. All of the above 10. Voice artist Mel Blanc is buried in the Hollywood Forever Cemetery (originally the Hollywood Cemetery). What’s inscribed on his tombstone? a. Gone to Cartoon Heaven b. Thanks, Fans! ANSWERS c. That’s All, Folks ON PAGE d. Carry On, My Animation Buddies e. See You In Another Reel 24! Image Courtesy: www.biography.com

6. Why are newsreels no longer shown? a. They’re too expensive to make and distribute. b. They take up time than can be used to show trailers or product ads. c. Many present news that could negatively affect the audience, such as terrorist attacks. d. Movie goers can get news from TV or other electronic devices. Image Courtesy: www.seattlemet.com

boom

Hobbies

Craft Beer Treats, Without the Tricks Choosing the Right Beers for Your Halloween Party By: Chuck Bergman

he decorations are up, the pumpkins are carved and the costumes have been picked out. You are almost ready for your Halloween party, but then you realize that you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t purchased your beverages yet.

Sure you could just buy a couple cases of commercial beer, but where is the Halloween spirit in that choice? Why not enjoy our spookiest holiday with a selection of craft beers that celebrate the season. Enjoy beer styles that reflect the colors of fall and maybe a few that truly embrace Halloween in all its scary glory! But how to begin? You know what craft beers you like, but what about your friends and coworkers coming the party? You want to have a solid selection of beer styles for all to enjoy. A great start is to purchase a few seasonal multipacks. Breweries like Sam Adams, New Belgium and Sierra Nevada have fall multipacks that offer threeto-four different styles. Often these beers are only available during the autumn months. This gives you a simple way to provide a nice variety for your guests. Oktoberfest is another great option for fall. Many regional breweries offer this German festival beer, often starting in September and running through the end of November. Oktoberfest beers are dark copper or deep amber in color and pour a large off-white head. They are a very drinkable beer with a light toasty flavor and a slightly sweet maltiness. There is often a light hop bitterness layered in the background.

Many of your guests may enjoy a solid Brown Ale. They vary from copper to brown in color and are medium bodied, ranging from dry to a sweet maltiness. They sometimes have caramel or chocolate characteristics, depending on the grains used in brewing. The English style have little hop flavor or aroma, while the American version enjoys a more pronounced hop intensity. Bellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Brown Ale is one of the best on the market and I personally use it as a standard of comparison for all brown ales I taste. 14

OCTOBER 2016 | boom

Amber Ales are a great addition to any Halloween party. These beers

range in color from amber (obviously) to deep red. This style of beer tends to focus on the malts, but hop character can range from low to high. It is usually considered a balance between the light pale ales and rich, heavy, brown ales. Expect a balanced beer, with toasted malt characters and a light fruitiness in the finish. Want a beer that truly reflects the color of fall, then a Red Ale is the perfect beer to include at your haunted gathering. Brewers love playing with the specialty malts to achieve the perfect ruby color. Red ales have a medium to light body, with low to moderate malt aroma. Obviously its color is characterized by its eponymous red hue. The flavor often has a toffee-like caramel malt profile that is less sweet than you expect and often has a pleasingly dry finish. It wouldn’t be a Halloween party with serving a few Pumpkin Ales. These have become fall favorites in recent years. Most craft versions of this beer are brewed with pumpkin flesh and many of the spices found in your grandma’s pumpkin pie. Pumpkin ales appear orange to amber in color and are often cloudy like a wheat beer, due to the pumpkin flesh proteins still present in the brew.

“Oktoberfest is another great option for fall.”

“It wouldn’t be a Halloween party with serving a few Pumpkin Ales.”

They are usually a medium to lighter bodied ale with a nice malt backbone, boasting aromas of pumpkin, nutmeg, clove, ginger, and cinnamon. At this time of the year, you can’t miss a great selection of regional pumpkin beers at the grocery or liquor store. Truly get into the Halloween spirit by serving a few Halloween Brews. These beers embrace the scary, spooky spirit of All

Hallows Eve, usually with creative names and unusual labels. Rogue’s Dead Guys Ale is an annual favorite. Another great choice is New Holland’s Ichabod Pumpkin Ale. I suggest picking up a build-your-own six-pack with a nice mix of Halloween beers. Your guests may enjoy examining the bizarre artwork more than actually tasting them! Don’t be afraid to mix-in other styles at your party. If you have friends that love hoppy IPAs, then by all means include some in the offerings. Maybe include a few porters and stouts for your friends with a taste for darker beers. A nice smoked porter or coffee stout are great choices for a crisp, cool fall evening. As a final suggestion, try to stick with beers that are low to moderate alcohol content. At most Halloween parties it is difficult to monitor how much your guests consume. By keeping the ABV low, you ensure that they enjoy the treats of Halloween without any nasty tricks. CHEERS! ••• boom | OCTOBER 2016

boom

traveler River Raisin National Battlefield ParkÂ Visitors Center.

Monroe, Michigan Article and Photos By: Phyllis Rose

▲

“R

Display inside the Visitors Center depict the events of the Battle of the River Raisin.

emember the Raisin!” You probably don’t remember it but visit Monroe, Michigan, on the River Raisin and you’ll learn all about that rallying cry and the fascinating history of what was once known as Frenchtown.

Having grown up in Monroe, I always knew the River Raisin. It flowed gently through town. The old J.C. Penney store had a balcony where you could stand and look out over the peaceful, muddy river. But when Dave and I, and my cousin, Judy Thomas of Monroe, visited the River Raisin National Battlefield Park, 1403 E. Elm Ave., we learned the bloody history of the River Raisin in the War of 1812. Entering the park’s Visitors Center, we met docent Ron Jones, who gave us an overview of the January, 1813, Battle of the River Raisin or the Battle of Frenchtown as it is also known. After his presentation, we viewed a video with more details about the battle. As the War of 1812 raged, the Americans met a force of British and Native Americans in a battle where the Americans suffered more fatalities than in any other battle of the war. Following the defeat, wounded soldiers were left behind until more transports could be brought in to take them to safety at Fort Malden in Canada.

For more info: River Raisin National Battlefield Park 734-243-7136 www.nps.gov/rira www.riverraisinbattlefield.org Monroe County Museum 734-240-7780 www.monroecountymuseum.com La Fiesta 734-848-6088 www.lafiestarestaurant.com

However, the wounded soldiers were massacred by Native Americans as revenge for their losses in the battle. This became known as “The River Raisin Massacre,” leading to the war’s rallying cry, “Remember the Raisin.”

boom | OCTOBER 2016

boom

TRaveler

“There’s a lot of history to take in here.” All of this bloody history belies the peaceful scene outside the Visitors Center as Judy and I walked the Mason Run Loop Trail around the battlefield as it meanders along the Mason Run, then parallel to Dixie Highway before leading back to the Visitors Center. We then walked the 17th Infantry Loop Trail which has signage explaining what happened on this spot back in 1813.

▲ The Monroe County Museum is located in the former post office, a beautiful old Georgian style building, built around 1910. The building stands on the site of the old homestead of Major General George A. Custer.

While we read the signage, nearby Cub Scouts were becoming Junior Rangers by learning about life at the time of the War of 1812. One docent was teaching them about animal pelts since fur trading was important to the settlers. Other Junior Rangers watched a costumed soldier fire a 19th century weapon. There’s a lot of history to take in here at the battlefield which has been part of the National Park System since 2010. There’ll be even more to take in soon because in the the next few years, there are plans to rebuild Frenchtown as a historic village and to build a new visitors center. In search of more history, Dave, Judy and I went to the Monroe County Museum,126 S. Monroe Street. When I was growing up, this building was the post office, a beautiful old Georgian style building, built around 1910. In fact, the building stands on the site of the old homestead of Major General George A. Custer, which was something I hadn’t known until I saw the plaque inside the museum.

▲ The Victorian Room is one of the displays in the Monroe County Museum. 18

OCTOBER 2016 | boom

Monroe has a big connection to Custer and his family which I knew because so many things in Monroe are named after him from an elementary school, to a major road, to the airport. In the center of town right by the main bridge over the River Raisin stands a huge statue of Custer called “Sighting the Enemy,” which portrays Custer seated on a horse at the Battle of Gettysburg where he led the Michigan 7th Calvary in a victory at Rummel’s Field.

▲ Several La-Z-Boy chairs chronicle the history of the La-Z-Boy company which was founded in Monroe.

If you’re interested in Custer, the Monroe County Museum is the place to visit. On the second floor is “The Custers and their Legacy,” one of the largest Custer exhibits in the country. And you’ll see the real items, not replicas, such as the old, worn Custer family Bible and Custer’s baby dress. There’s also a lot of information about Elizabeth Custer, whom George married in 1864 in Monroe’s First Presbyterian Church, 108 Washington Street. After her husband’s death, she became a writer and speaker whose goal was to salvage her husband’s memory because he was being blamed for the disaster at the Battle of the Little Big Horn. In 1910, she returned to Monroe for the dedication of her husband’s statue. But the museum has other exhibits of interest, too. If you’ve ever enjoyed a Sunday afternoon nap in a La-Z-Boy chair, check out the exhibit of La-Z-Boys showing their development over the years. La-Z-Boy was founded in Monroe in 1928 and is still the world headquarters of the company. Dave still tells people about seeing La-Z-Boy’s first chair, a reclining wood-slat porch chair, not what we usually associate with a comfy recliner. But, soon the company upholstered the basic chair and it became a hit.

Before leaving the museum, we enjoyed the beautiful Victorian rooms and exhibits about Monroe residents such as Kay Lani Rae Rafko, Miss America, 1988, who still lives and works in Monroe. History makes you hungry. We let Judy decide on a restaurant since we were also celebrating her birthday. It was no surprise when she picked LaFiesta, 11191 Telegraph Road, Erie, Michigan, about 20 minutes south of Monroe. If you get to the state line, you know you’ve gone too far! This is Judy’s favorite restaurant and it’s easy to see why, starting with the complementary warm chips and tasty salsa. Dave chose the burrito supreme, I, the mini-burrito supreme and Judy the Texas enchilada salad. My mini-burrito was just the right size. Dave’s was almost too much but he persevered and ate it all, which was not hard to do since everything was delicious. With a day exploring history in Monroe on the banks of the River Raisin, you’ll make many memories so you’ll always “Remember the Raisin.” •••

boom | OCTOBER 2016

boom

life

Helping Hands By: Kim Mower

Tips for Grandparents Who Want to Help but Can’t Babysit

Parents love to hear “I’ll watch the kids.” Yet sometimes it can be too difficult for grandparents to keep up with young, energetic children. The thought of having to chase, lift and carry children for hours can be daunting and just may not be possible. Here are five things grandparents can do that are just as helpful as babysitting:

Fold Laundry

Kids are messy creatures and often require multiple outfit changes a day. Add bedding, bibs, towels and not to mention mom and dad’s clothes and that is a lot of laundry in a week. Make a pit stop in your child’s laundry room next time you’re over and check the dryer. Folding one load of laundry may not seem like much but it means one less load that your child has to do later. Your thoughtfulness will be appreciated.

When you become a grandparent it can be hard to know how to make the most of your new role. Spending quality time with your grandchildren certainly tops your list. Helping your child and their spouse adjust to life, as parents can also be an important role that you play.

OCTOBER 2016 | boom

2. Bring Diapers

Babycenter.com estimates the average family will spend $360-$1,000 on disposable diapers a year! Show up with a box of diapers for your grandchild every couple visits and you’ll be #1 Grandma in your child’s eyes. An additional $30 to your shopping trip could save hundreds of dollars for your child’s family. Just as important but not as expensive: wipes. If Grandpa shows up with a pack of wipes each visit that adds up to helpful savings for mom and dad.

Useful Gifts

Grandparents love to spoil children with little toys and candy. You’re winning them over one plastic toy at a time. That $2 toy you picked up unfortunately lasts about 30 seconds after you walk out the door. Save yourself a stop at the dollar bin next time and come with a pair of new pajamas, socks or underwear featuring your grandchild’s favorite character. The child will be excited to wear new pajamas and you will have spent money on a needed item. Plus every time your grandchild puts on his/her new pajamas, you will be top of mind!

4. Clip Coupons The USDA estimates the average family of four in the United States spends between $564-$1288 a month on groceries. Ask your son or daughter if they use coupons or would appreciate savings for certain items. Send a pile of clipped coupons for items you know they use. (Save some of those diaper and wipe coupons for yourself. See tip #2)

Bring Food

After school activities can take up a lot of time. If you know a particular evening will have mom and dad shuttling kids from school to gymnastics to soccer to swimming, offer to drop dinner off. One less meal that mom has to make will be much appreciated by her and those hungry grandkids.

If you don’t live near your grandchildren, there are still thoughtful things that you can do to help. Send a gift card to a local restaurant or have diapers sent to the house from a store that offers free shipping. A grandparent’s help is an asset to any growing family. • • •

Reference Babycenter.com cost of diapers http://www.babycenter.com/top-baby-costs USDA cost of groceries http://www.cnpp.usda.gov/sites/default/files/CostofFoodMar2015.pdf

boom | OCTOBER 2016

boom

life

By: Gayla Grace

When Parenting Roles Reverse

The Art of Caregiving

watched Mom's confusion, a knot forming in my stomach, as she stared at me blankly and looked for the bathroom in her own home. I didn't know how to answer when she asked where her four little girls were (me and my sisters of years' past). Who's to blame for this horrible disease? Why did this happen? Where is the mom who raised me? I couldn't deny the strangling grip of Alzheimer's. As I watched Mom struggle with everyday chores, I began to help with cooking, laundry and grocery shopping. I applied her makeup and redirected her behavior when she spun out of control, envisioning her doing the same for me as a young child. Fragile emotions spilled out as I walked in unfamiliar territory. I wanted an instruction manual on how to move from my daughter role of 50+ years to a caregiver's role. As our parents age, it's not unusual for roles to reverse, particularly in the midst of illness. The Family Caregiver Alliance reports that approximately 44 million caregivers provided unpaid care in the last 12 months. https://www.caregiver.org/caregiver-statistics-demographics

OCTOBER 2016 | boom

Understanding how to move into a caregiver role and balance it with parenting responsibilities presents unique challenges. Here are a few tips to help: Recognize your limitations. Determine a realistic plan, mindful of your own family's needs and responsibilities. I established a schedule with my husband to include two days at my parent's, who live out-of-town, every other week. My routine allowed time to perform much-needed tasks for Mom without neglecting extended periods with our teenage son. Say good-bye to the parent who raised you. Diagnoses that affect the brain such as dementia, Parkinson's or a stroke often create devastating changes to personalities. I made an intentional choice to open my mind to Mom's new emotions, changing behavior and different mannerisms, no longer expecting the Mom of my childhood. I processed raw emotions with my sisters, educated myself on dementia, and joined an online support group to help cope with the changing dynamics in our relationship.

Include grandchildren in caregiving roles. Children don't have to be shielded from aging parents. Asking older children to help with meals, laundry or errands moves them away from self-centered behavior and teaches them compassion for others. My sister's children help with cooking, cleaning or simply companionship on hard days. Grandchildren create lasting memories through routine tasks and meaningful conversation with grandparents. Find gratitude for the parent now in your life. As personalities change, new characteristics emerge. Mom's private demeanor of the past has been replaced with a transparent and sensitive spirit. Deeper relationships develop as she easily expresses her needs and asks for help, embracing gestures of kindness with love and appreciation. Although no longer the mom of my past, I love her just the same.

“I've learned to accept the good days and the bad without focusing on what lies ahead.”

Live one day at a time. Mom's dementia will not have a happy ending. When I project details of the future, fear creeps in. I've learned to accept the good days and the bad without focusing on what lies ahead. I don't always do it perfectly, but when I live one day at a time, I enjoy the beauty of Mom's laughter, the twinkle in her eye when she remembers my name, and the momentary pleasure of a meaningful conversation as Mom reminisces of childhood memories.

Aging parents create new challenges when parenting roles reverse. An already overwhelmed schedule with our own children can prevent us from assuming a caregiver role. But life is a gift that can be taken away with little notice. As I watch Mom's last season quickly drawing to a close, I want to show honor and gratitude as often as possible, creating special moments in the process, without regrets in the end. •••

Find support. Sharing the burden with others helps. I'm thankful for three sisters who also want to help with Mom's caregiving, but not everyone shares that privilege. Finding support through caregiver groups, local community activities and others walking the same journey helps ease the tension and exhaustion that accompanies caregiving responsibilities.

boom | OCTOBER 2016

boom

HOBBIES

BEFORE

THE FEATURE By: Margo and Jim Bell Photo Courtesy: www.biography.com

ANSWERS: 1-d:

Mel Blanc created voices for 848 of over 1,000 cartoon shorts developed by Merrie Melodies and produced by Warner Bros. The others on the hint list were company cartoon directors.

2-a: Felix the Cat, released by Pat Sullivan Studios in 1919,

is credited as being one of the first anthropomorphic cartoon characters and became popular with theater goers at the time. He was inspired by a Rudyard Kipling character.

7-e:

The scent-sational—at least to him—Pepe goes after Penelope Pussycat when he mistakes her for an odorless female skunk. The only words she says are the occasional “le mew.” Merrie Melodies and Looney Toons produced the cartoons, and one of them won an Oscar. In case you’re interested, (d) is the name of our gray, non-striped cat and is French for “charming.”

8-a, b:

Steamboat Willie introduced sound-on-film and also marks the official debut of Mickey Mouse.

This was one of the cartoons in the Silly Symphony series, all of which since Flowers and Trees featured the threestep Technicolor process. The eight-minute cartoon garnered the first Academy Award for Animated Short Subjects and became a critical and commercial success.

4-a: Acme, meaning “highest point of achievement” or

9-e: Perhaps the best-known Betty Boop voice is that of

3-e:

perfection, is a popular name for businesses (there are several “Acme” commercial enterprises in our area). It’s ironic that the name was used for the coyote’s supplier, as just about all the company’s products were duds or had backfired.

5-c: After the adorable yellow bird commented to no one in

particular except the audience, “I t’ot I saw a puddy tat” after Sylvester the cat showed up, Tweety would exclaim, “I did! I did see a puddy tat!” The “sufferin’ succotash” is an oft-quoted quip by Sylvester and is also the name of a vegetable side dish.

6-d: The newsreel, a regular movie theater feature of

the first half of the 20th Century, fell into nothingness when television broadcasts of the 1960s came into being. However, some countries such as Spain still churned out these short news films into the 1980s.

Mae Questel, as she also supplied the voice of Olive Oyl and appeared live as the confused but loveable Aunt Bethany in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989). She passed away in 1998 at the age of 89. Betty Boop still appears today in merchandise, as well as commercials voiced by Sandy Fox among others.

10-c: Mel Blanc’s burial site, within eyeshot of Paramount

Studios, is a popular destination for classic movie fans (we’ve been there). As you may recall, the Warner Bros. cartoons ended with Elmer Fudd declaring, “That’s All, Folks!” •••

SOURCES: Wiki; newsreelarchive.com; timeline of animated film history; mental_floss; findagrave.com; more.

NEXT MONTH: Rocky Movies 24

OCTOBER 2016 | boom

boom

recipe

By: Katie & Theresa Slott

Butternut Squash Soup Time: 1 hour Makes: 3 quarts of soup Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash (1-1 1/2 lb) 1 T. olive oil 2 leeks 2 celery stalks, diced 1 clove garlic, minced 15 oz. pumpkin puree 6 c. chicken or vegetable stock 1-2 t. salt, to taste 1/2-1 t. pepper, to taste 1 T. fresh rosemary, optional pumpkin seeds, optional

Steps: Preheat oven to 400F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with oil. Set it aside. Using a long sharp knife, cut the butternut squash in half vertically, from top to bottom. Scoop out the seeds from the opening in the bottom half of the squash and discard. Place the squash cut side down on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, until fork-tender. Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a large spoon to scoop out the flesh. Set aside. While the butternut squash is roasting, prep your other ingredients. The leeks need to be trimmed and then rinsed. Cut off the dark green, and slice the white and light green parts. Fan out the layers under water to clean the leeks thoroughly. Then dice the white and light green parts. Heat olive oil in a large stock pot over medium heat. Add the leeks, celery, and garlic. Cook for about five minutes, stirring often, until softened. Add the roasted butternut squash and the pumpkin puree. Stir, then add the stock. Bring to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer. Simmer for 20 minutes. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Salt and pepper to taste. Top with rosemary and/or pumpkin seeds, if desired.

Katie and Theresa Slott are sisters-in-law who write the food blog, Cooking for the Fam, where they share lots of tips, family-favorite recipes and meal plans. For more recipes like this one, or to see step-by-step photos of this recipe, check out their website, www.cookingforthefam.com. boom | OCTOBER 2016

boom

HOME

Fall Into Beautiful Door Wreaths The easiest, yet very beautiful, way to embrace the fall season is changing your door wreath! Embrace the changing season by adding a bit of color to the front of your home.

Autumn Grandeur

Autumn Hydrangea Wreath

Burlap Wreath

Seasons In The Sun

$75+, Busy Beas Boutique www.etsy.com/shop/BusyBeasBoutique

$49, Julies Wreath Boutique www.etsy.com/shop/JuliesWreathBoutique

OCTOBER 2016 | boom

$65+, Home Hearth Garden www.etsy.com/shop/HomeHearthGarden

$50+, Busy Beas Boutique www.etsy.com/shop/BusyBeasBoutique

boom

book review

Old Age: A Beginner’s Guide By Michael Kinsley Reviewed By: Bruce Runnels, Bittersweet Branch Administrator at Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library

Photo Courtesy: