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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
R ive r Re gio n Bo o m . co m
March 2018
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BOOM!, The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Contents
March 2018 Volume 8 Issue 7
You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”
Facebook.com/RiverRegionBoom C.S. Lewis
Thought Relationships Taste Inspiration
Humor Advice Health Community
“Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.”
Carl Bard
8 Publisher’s Letter 10 It's National Cleaning Week: Checklist 11 "What the AUM - OLLI Program Has Meant to Me" 12 Shamrocks are for Sharing Sheila Galloway Robertson 14 Nutrition Tips for People over 50, Leigh Anne Richards
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Features
34 Pickleball : Older Americans Love It!
36 Depression Is Far More Sinister Than Sadness
Departments 20 This and That
Getting You “In the Know”
44 {12} Things
Special Events for Boomers
40 Alabama’s Grand Canyon A Spiritual Experience
16 Grappling With Market Volatility,McDonald Hagen 18 Season of Renewal with Your Grandkids 20 Over The Edge for HIM 2018
42 Greg Budell
ONE FLU INTO A CUCKOO HEAD
20 14th Annual Autism Crawfish Boil 22 Civil Ties-United Mudrun 24 Top Secret Lima Site 85 26 Know When to Hold ‘Em Ask an Elder Law Attorney 28 BOOM! Cover Profile
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39 Eating Smart with Tracy Bhalla: Honey 46 Marlyn Mason, more than an ‘Elvis Girl’
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BOOM! The River Regions 50+ Lifestage Magazine is published monthly by River Region Publications, 3966 Atlanta Hwy, Box 266, Montgomery, AL 36109. The phone number is 334.324.3472. Copyright 2018 by River Region Publications. No part of this publication can be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Opinions expressed in BOOM! The River Regions 50+ Lifestage Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
R ive r Re gio n Bo o m . co m
March 2018
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Publisher’s Letter
Mardi Gras Attitude! This month’s Cover Profile was born in Mobile and she has the Mardi Gras in her blood! With Mardi Gras comes attitude, “Laissez les bon temps rouler” which most of you know means “Let the good times roll,” which I interpret as making good things happen wherever you are. That’s what Donna Marietta, this month’s Cover Profile is all about. Donna is the Executive Director of MACOA which serves thousands of seniors in the River Region through a variety of activities as well as the Meals on Wheels Program that delivered 120,000 hot meals last year! Donna’s Mardi Gras influence is not only fun to be around but contagious when she’s leading her team to do more in the service of seniors. She tries to enlist the three E’s when it comes to leadership: Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy. I believe the Mardi Gras attitude is not only fun but effective. I hope you enjoy getting to know Donna as much as I did and please share her story with friends.
The mission of BOOM! is to serve the folks of the River Region age 50 plus with information and ideas to inspire new experiences, better quality of life and new beginnings.
Publisher/Editor
Jim Watson, 334.324.3472 jim@riverregionboom.com
Contributing Writers Jeff Barganier Austin Barranco Tracy Bhalla Kimberly Blaker Greg Budell
Jim Watson, Publisher
March will also bring some good reads about grandparents trying to renew their relationship with the grandkids by doing some fun activities. It’s important to be intentional with grandkids, so go make a date or two. Our friend Jeff Barganier has been to Alabama’s Grand Canyon and is happy to share some thoughts about his trip and a few warning signs along the way. Jeff also contributed a piece on the ever popular Pickleball, have you played yet?
Lee & Mary Gurley Donna Marietta Leigh Anne Richards Sheila Galloway Robertson Nick Thomas Raley L. Wiggins
Kimberly Blaker, wo has contributed a few articles recently shares one this month about depression and how women are more susceptible than man. She has experienced depression and knows a thing or two about what it looks like and possible paths forward. It’s a subject that has become more comfortable to discuss, and probably good to listen to. Please share with others who may have an interest. It’s cleaning week or something like that in March so we did a checklist on how to do a deep cleaning this Spring. If you’re not interested in a deep cleaning, you could always call Spotless Professional Cleaning Services and give them the checklist :)
Cover Photography Jeri Hines Total Image Portraits www.totalimage.com 334.261.2080
Advertising
Greg Budell has the flu and it ain’t funny…but he is! Leigh Anne Richards helps us understand the importance of nutrition as we age, to be healthier, think healthier when it comes to your food choices. Tracy Bhalla adds a little something about honey that will be good to know when it comes to food choices. Finally, our garden expert is telling her story about Shamrocks are for Sharing, after all, It’s St. Paddy’s Day this month, so enjoy.
Jim Watson, 334.324.3472 jim@riverregionboom.com
Please Recycle This Magazine, Share with a Friend!
There’s plenty more to check out this month, so enjoy the best reading experience for the 50+ community in the River Region. Please support our advertisers and mention BOOM! when you get a chance to thank them for supporting the 50+ community. Please share BOOM! with your friends and your comments with me. I love to listen. Please sign up for your free subscription to the Digital & Interactive BOOM! online at RiverRegionBoom. com. Thanks for being part of our BOOM! Community. Happy St. Patrick’s Day Jim
Facebook.com/RiverRegionBoom
jim@riverregionboom.com 334.324.3472 cell/text
Digital & Interactive
When you read the Digital & Interactive version of BOOM! on your digital device you will be interactive with every website and email link in the magazine. You can click through to a writer’s source, an
advertiser, send comments and suggestions, request more info and share your favorite reads on Facebook and Twitter. The Digital & Interactive version was built for the new you so go ahead and sign up for a free subscription at RiverRegionBoom.com “BOOM!, the best reading experience for the 50+ community”
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
R ive r Re gio n Bo o m . co m
March 2018
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It's National Cleaning Week:
by Kimberly Blaker
Room-by-Room Guidance for Conquering the Task
The emergence of spring has long been associated with deep cleaning our homes. Although it's origin is presumed of Iranian or Jewish culture, it's a popular custom in America and is gaining popularity in other parts of the world. For most, it signifies a fresh home, or a fresh start to complement the blossoming of spring. National Cleaning Week is recognized in March each year. So, join the ranks of spring cleaners by using this guide to conquer the task. To keep the job from feeling overwhelming, schedule a block of time each day, or even each week, for your annual cleaning. Work on one room at a time and reward yourself for each room until the job is done. The basics – for every room in your home ; Dust wall and ceiling light fixtures, then remove globes and wash them out. ; Dust ceiling fan blades. ; Remove cobwebs with a vacuum and brush attachment or a clean rag attached to the head of a broom. ; Remove and wash window coverings and dust the top of curtain rods and window trim. ; Remove wall hangings, knick-knacks, and other décor, then rinse in warm soapy water. ; Wash doors and knobs and the dust that collects on top of doors and entryway trim. ; Wash walls with an all-purpose cleaning solution. Touch up mars and chips with paint. ; Wipe off switch plates. ; Empty cabinets and drawers then wash them inside and out. Wash out and arrange drawer organizers, as well. ; Wash windows and sills, and don’t forget the unsightly tracks. ; Clean unupholstered furniture from top to bottom with an appropriate cleaner. ; Vacuum upholstered furniture from top to bottom and under cushions, paying special attention to creases and crevices where dust and grunge build up. ; Vacuum lampshades with a soft bristle attachment. ; Unplug electrical cords and run through a damp rag to remove built-up dust. ; Wash baseboards, then vacuum carpet edges with a narrow attachment. ; Vacuum and/or mop under furniture and other stationary items.
Bedroom odds ’n ends ; Remove items from under the bed, dust off storage containers, and dispose of clutter. ; Vacuum under beds using attachments. ; Eliminate unwanted articles from drawers.
The bathroom—scour and disinfect ; Remove and launder shower curtain and liner, bath mat, toilet cover, and rugs. ; Scour tub and shower from top to bottom, inside and out. Use a toothbrush to remove mold, mildew, and soap scum accumulation around the drain, faucet, knobs, and shower head. ; Clean glass shower doors inside and out including the track. ; Spray exterior of toilets with a sanitizing solution and wipe down. ; If you have young boys, remove the toilet seat and clean bolts where odors linger. Use a deodorizing solution on the baseboard and wall behind the toilet. ; Wash toilet brush container and wastebasket. ; Scrub sink and countertop including grooves around the drain, faucet, and knobs. ; Dust the top edge of mirrors, towel racks, and other accessories.
Closets—the always forgotten ; Dust shelving, brackets, and rods. ; Organize shelves and eliminate unneeded items. ; Remove clothing that hasn’t been worn in two years. ; Dust shoe racks and rarely worn shoes.
Kitchen—contamination zones ; Dust the top of kitchen cabinets. ; Remove grease and grime from small kitchen appliances ; Clean stove, oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher inside and out. ; Wipe built up grunge in the top of the garbage disposal with a rag, then add ice and
lemon slices and run the disposal to clean and freshen the blades. ; Scrub countertops with a mild abrasive or degreaser. ; Wash table and chairs from top to bottom, and don’t forget the cracks where table leaves meet.
Basement, attic, and garage—clutter havens ; Install racks, shelving, and hooks then organize and eliminate clutter. ; Dust shelving and stored items. ; Store odds and ends in same-size boxes or containers for easy stacking. ; Remove oil, paint, and other stains from concrete with trisodium phosphate. Be sure to follow directions carefully and protect skin and eyes. ; Dispose of unwanted items.
Outdoors—dirt, dirt everywhere ; Hose down siding and windows. ; Wash screens with soapy water then rinse with a hose, and wash window exteriors. ; Scrub doormats with an all-purpose cleaner and a brush, then rinse. ; Spray off patio furniture then wipe clean. ; Clean light fixtures. ; Remove lint from dryer vent and nests and hives that have formed on or near the house. If you don't want to do the cleaning yourself call Spotless Montgomery at 334.531.7231
Kimberly Blaker is a lifestyle and parenting freelance writer. She also writes a blog, The Young Gma's Guide to Parenting at www.theyounggma.com. Copyright © 2017 Kimberly Blaker, All rights reserved.
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Written by Lee & Mary Gurley
"What the AUM - OLLI Program Has Meant to Me" We started taking classes at what is now OLLI over four years ago. Through OLLI, we have made many new friends and shared new experiences with some of our longtime friends. We have enjoyed interactions with OLLI participants, instructors, and the great team at AUM Outreach. Our instructors have all been very knowledgeable about the subject matters of their classes and very capable presenting the material. We have always looked forward to the start of classes during the breaks between terms. The variety of classes has allowed us to enjoy shared interests. Our classes have included a wide range of subjects including religion, nature,
fitness, hiking, structures, and history. Even after over 52 years of marriage, we have learned a lot about each other when we have studied and discussed the various subjects. In the Dialogues of War class, we studied about WWI and the Vietnam War. Mary learned a lot more about Lee’s time in the Army during the late 1960s. Careers and raising 2 boys just never seemed to leave time to discuss many of Lee’s experiences during those years. OLLI classes made it possible for Mary to create 4 booklets for our grandchildren when she took Anticipating Christmas. It was a history of sorts of our family and memories. After taking 3 classes
in Pine Needle Basket Making, she created 2 nice baskets for our daughters-in-law. She also made jewelry for Christmas gifts in her Jewelry Making class. Lee’s classes have not involved making anything and have not generally provided any evaluation of his performance. He took a class on Football but no playing was required. We have taken Line Dancing several times and always find it satisfying when we are facing the same direction as most of the others in the class. Lee & Mary Gurley For more information about AUM OLLI or to request a catalog, contact: Brittany at 244-3804.
Come expand your horizons with a term of learning with AUM OLLI members!
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March 2018
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By Sheila Galloway Robertson
Shamrocks are for Sharing March 17, 2018, is in the air, and my shamrocks are “restoring” their hardy growth, getting ready for St. Patrick’s Day! Oxalis, commonly called a shamrock plant, grows a green and purple leaf, both of which produce lovely pink and white blooms. Did you know that this special plant “sleeps at night”? Around dusk time, the leaves begin to close up; and when morning arrives, this plant opens up to start the new day. Late winter is a prime time to repot or plant the oxalis rhizomes, which are the small roots. If repotting, you should begin by filling clay pots with good soil, and place the tubers under the soil, keeping the soil moist. If potting the shamrocks for display indoors, be sure to place the pots in front of a sunny window. Shamrocks also make lovely additions to the garden as ground covers. When planting shamrocks in the soil, you should place the oxalis rhizomes horizontally or you can angle them diagonally. Whether planted in pots or planted in the soil, the rhizomes will need normal fertilizing. Apply the fertilizer around the rhizomes, not directly on them. The shamrocks will show their new growth in a few weeks, especially with God’s beautiful sunshine shining on the plant. When the leaves become “droopy,” they should be pinched off or cut off from the lower
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stem. The “deadheading” only serves to make the shamrocks grow more beautifully. I hope this plan for your shamrock plants will help them grow all year and delight you and many other gardeners.
Shamrocks grow profusely, so that enables me to share the plant with neighbors, friends, and family. Once you get started, you’ll be sharing, too. And
Ancient Irish Blessing
May there always be work for your hands to do May your purse always hold a coin or two May the sun always shine on your window pane May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain May the hand of a friend always be near you May God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you.
My special interest with shamrocks begins with my family background. I am first generation Scotch/Irish. My mother and father were born in Glasgow, Scotland, so the identity is strong. Besides my love for shamrocks, I have a fondness for Scottish heather which grows profusely there. Extending the connection to the next generation, our daughter Susan Heather Robertson Sturdivant was born on St. Patrick’s Day! This is considered -“A modern Irish blessing!” I always loved this Ancient Irish Blessing, one that reminds me of the beauties of growing shamrocks—the work, the sunshine, the rain, the friendship of sharing, and how happy they make me.
(unknown author)
everyone knows, the best way to enjoy a blessing is to pass it on! So, enjoy the blessings of growing and sharing shamrocks, and May your hearts feel the joy and love of shamrocks forever. Sheila G. Robertson, a Master Gardener in the Capital City Master Gardener Association since 2008, lives in Montgomery. For more information on becoming a master gardener, visit www.capcitymga.org or email capcitymga@gmail.com.
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Nutrition Tips for People over 50
March is National Nutrition month. I am not a licensed nutritionist and I would never give people advice on what they should be eating or what “diet” they should adhere to. I truly believe in just a healthy lifestyle to maintain your weight and fuel your body.
As we age, over 50 especially, our bodies change and don’t function as well as it did in years past. Our digestive system can’t break down and absorb the nutrients from food as it once did. However, our middle age spread is not necessarily because of our age. It is more a direct result of our lifestyle choices with the lack of exercise and poor nutritional habits. If people are willing to incorporate guidelines for good nutrition and exercise into their lifestyles, age related weight gain will not occur. Healthy eating habits are vital at any age, but especially over 50. A healthy antiaging diet can help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation increases the risk of serious diseases and conditions such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, etc. The following are the top 10 good nutritional principles for people over 50: 1. Eat a wide variety of foods every day. This ensures you get as many nutrients as possible from good food.
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promotes fat storage. 8. Reduce salt intake- Salt may contribute to fluid retention in your body which could possibly increase blood pressure by Leigh Anne Richards 9. Consume high calcium foods to maintain strong, healthy bonesFoods such as egg yolks, sardines, dairy, spinach, brazil nuts and cabbage 2. Consume 5 or 6 small meals a day. This 10. Use supplements if you are not getting keeps your blood sugar stable and curbs a the proper amount through foods. As ravenous appetite. always consult a physician or a licensed 3. Eat more low and medium –density nutritionist first. carbohydrates compared to high density carbs- This will ensure your blood sugar For many years we have all heard and read remains stable, which will reduce insulin about “superfoods” These are simply foods secretion and fat storage. It will also packed with important vitamins, minerals, provide your body with an adequate fiber and phytonutrients. The anti-aging diet intake, which may help reduce cholesterol should always include foods that are strong levels and risk of colon cancer in Omega -3 fatty acids. Omega 3 can help 4. Consume small amounts of protein with reduce inflammation in the heart and every meal- Protein is the building block lower heart disease risk factors, such as of body tissue and supports your immune hypertension and high cholesterol. Some system of these foods would be avocados, fatty 5. Choose the right fats- Consume an fish and olive oil. These 3 foods are high adequate amount of good fats (from fish, in heart healthy fats and among the best avocadoes, olive oils, nuts and seeds. Limit sources for omega -3. The American Heart saturated fats- from fried foods and fatty Association recommends at least 2 weekly red meat. Also limit trans fats that are servings of 3.5 ounces of fatty fish such as present in baked goods salmon, mackerel, trout, tuna, or sardines. 6. Drink plenty of water every day- at least 250mls per 10kgs of body weight. Water Dark greens are also considered a super is an essential nutrient for optimal body food- spinach, swiss chard, kale and collard functions. greens. They are loaded with Vitamin K, 7. Reduce alcohol intake. Alcohol stops vitamin A, C, selenium, and zinc. All this help the fat burning process in your body and
Fitness over Fifty
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
support a strong immune system. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts and cabbage fall into this category. These foods can help protect against cancers as well as promote heart health. They are also very high in calcium for building strong bones and preventing osteoporosis. The following are also considered “super foods that we should incorporate into our healthy diets: • Special greens such as Cilantro and Parsley. These help clean the body of heavy metals and toxic chemicals that may be in contaminated water, cooking ware, or processed foods. • Root vegetables: beets and beet greensThey contain anti- cancer properties as well as anti- inflammatory properties. • Foods high in fiber and low on the glycemic index- Quinoa, buckwheat and wild rice. Grains in general are good for anti-aging diet especially when eaten with vegetables to help balance blood sugar levels • Garlic, turmeric, and ginger are among the most powerful healing herbs on the planet! These herbs contain antii8nflammatory compounds. • Nuts- almonds, walnuts and cashews. These are excellent sources of monounsaturated fat oleic acid that promotes heart health. • Seeds such as flax, sunflower, sesame and pumpkin. Flaxseeds have long been considered the best plant source of the omega 3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) • Apples and berries along with green tea or herbal teas. It is also important to consider what foods would not be included within an anti-aging diet. It is best to avoid foods that stimulate inflammation such as processed foods such as potato chips, and processed meats like hot dogs, pepperoni, and bacon. Sugar and alcohol consumption should be limited as well. Celebrate National Nutrition Month- with these super foods and see how much better you feel. *www. Healthpress.com- Top 10 Superfoods for people over 50 July 22, 2015 www.quick weighloss-principles.com/good-nutrition
Leigh Anne Richards, MEd, Certified Personal Trainer, Group Exercise Instructor, General ManagerMetroFitness. For any questions or comments, contact Leigh Anne at LAMetrofit@aol.com The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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Grappling With Market Volatility
Brandt McDonald introduces his guest columnist, Austin Barranco… From time to time, I will be introducing several of our advisors through this column. They will share personalized insights into financial markets, financial planning, and overall wealth management concepts. At McDonald & Hagen, we have a deep bench of talent that is eager to serve our firm’s clients and our local community. This month’s column is written by Austin Barranco. Austin entered the financial industry in 2014 after earning a degree in Finance from The University of Alabama, with a specialization in Insurance and Risk Management, he has also earned the distinction of a FINRA General Securities Principal held with LPL. Austin and his wife Maghen live in East Montgomery with their dog Chip. In his free time Austin enjoys college football, golf, and traveling the world.
After more than 18 months of nearly uninterrupted advances, the U.S. equity markets started declining in early February, with the largest sell-off coming on February 5th , followed by another sell-off of similar magnitude on February 8th. Although it can be increasingly difficult to endure these declines while they’re occurring, we encourage investors to focus on the underlying fundamentals of the economy, which are pointing to the potential for continued market growth in 2018 and beyond. There are several conditions that can explain this recent sell-off. The biggest factor is a stronger than expected January jobs report, which often results in rising wage pressures. In most businesses, human capital is the largest expense, and when these expenses begin to rise, the increase costs are passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices for goods and services. Historically, when wages and the price of goods begin to rise, there are increased concerns about inflation and possible changes to monetary policy. Inflation can also be detrimental to owners of bonds that offer a fixed-income, which causes investors to demand higher yields. In these instances, the Federal Reserve usually attempts to slow down demand by raising interest rates. Thus, investors may now fear that monetary policymakers will increase rates more than expected in 2018. As market interest rates started to climb in response to wage growth concerns, this triggered further selling among institutional traders looking to harvest gains from the maturing bull market. Institutional computer algorithms with built in “trailing-stops” compounded the sell-off, causing a more dramatic pull-back than we’ve seen since 2016. In addition to the wage growth concerns,
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Financial Thoughts
with Austin Barranco
there are political concerns. Further deficit spending measures loom as federal budget negotiations continue, all the while, threats of a government shutdown are becoming more frequent. Political risk can cause sophisticated and unsophisticated investors alike to exit the equity markets and hold a temporary cash position.
tailwind for the equity markets. This combination may also support growth in personal consumption, as well as business investment, which could enable U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) growth to reach 3%, which hasn’t happened since the George W. Bush era in 2005. One thing that we must remember, as investors, is that market volatility still occurs in healthy markets. It is important to resist the urge to react emotionally to these volatile corrections. If you remain focused on the underlying fundamentals of the economy, and stick to a regimented investment strategy, then you position yourself better for potential long-term success.
While market volatility is never pleasant, it is important for investors to appreciate that market pullbacks are a normal part of investing, and we have not experienced even a 5% drop in the S&P 500 Index since the Brexit vote in June of 2016. During this time, the market has produced a series of record-setting gains with very little volatility. Also, one must consider that volatility has historically increased in midterm election years, and the market has a propensity to test a new Federal Reserve Chairman. Janet Yellen relinquished the title of Fed Chair on February 3rd, and Jerome Powell was sworn in on February 5th. The timing of the recent pullback could be coincidence, but historical data would recommend otherwise. Given these factors, this recent market weakness was overdue.
If you need a sound investment strategy, or would like an Investment Advisor to analyze your current strategy, give us a call. Our team of professionals is well equipped to handle a wide range of investments, and we would be happy to help you with your pursuit of financial freedom.
We encourage investors to focus on the fundamentals supporting economic and profit growth. Tax reform, increased government spending, and reduced regulation should create a powerful
Securities offered through LPL Financial. Member FINRA & SIPC. Investment advice offered through McDonald & Hagen Wealth Management, a Registered Investment Advisor, and separate entity from LPL Financial.
Austin Barranco, Financial Advisor Brandt McDonald, Managing Partner McDonald & Hagen Wealth Management LPL Branch Manager www.mcdonaldhagen.com Direct comments and questions to Jennifer.Hunt@LPL.com or 334.387.0094 The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. No strategy assures success or protects against loss. Stock investing involves risk including loss of principle. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized legal or tax advice. We suggest you discuss your specific legal or tax issues with a qualified legal or tax advisor.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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by Kimberly Blaker
Season of Renewal with Your Grandkids, Try Some of These Fun Activities
“Spring is nature's way of saying, 'Let's party.” --Robin Williams That said, do you and your grandkids have the spring fever? If so, that's for a good reason. Spring represents renewal, rebirth, hope, love, growth, and youth and serves to energize us as everything around us comes to life. Make the most of this invigorating season by getting outdoors for some fresh air, sunshine, and plenty of family fun. Plant a flower or vegetable garden. Gather up the grandkids, and head to the nursery to pick out flats of flowers or packets of vegetable seeds. When you get home, decide on the arrangement and spacing. Then have everyone pitch in with digging and planting. To keep your grandkids' interest in the garden throughout the season, ask for their help with watering it when they visit. Visit a state or national park. Parks and forests come alive in the spring. Not only is the greenery beginning to fill in, but wildlife abounds. So it's the perfect time of year for a hike. Take along your binoculars and a camera for capturing photos or videotaping animals and birds. Fly a kite. A breezy spring day is just right for flying kites. For even more fun, order a kite kit in advance for you and your grandkids to design your own. Then, before you head out, check out some Youtube videos on how to fly a kite to ensure your adventure is a success. Go garage. Spring is when rummage sales get into full swing. So why not go on a treasure hunt? Before you head out, check your local newspaper and Craigslist for listings, and plan your route to make the most of the outing.
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Make a yard ornament. Get your grandkids together to brainstorm a fun project you can make together to liven up your front yard or landscape. A few ideas to get you started include a colorful birdhouse, bird feeder, planter, mosaic walkway or welcome sign, sculpture, or wind chimes. Whatever you decide, you can find instructions or kits online. Go on a picnic. Pack a bag of finger foods such as sandwiches, veggies and dip, chips, cookies, and soda, then head to a park to enjoy some grub, relaxation, and play. Build a fort. If you have a stash of construction materials laying around, this is an excellent way to put it to good use. Another option is to buy several sections of privacy fencing for prebuilt walls for your fort. There are countless ways to build a fort, so surf online for some great ideas. But just be prepared. Your grandkids will want to be at your house all the time (which may not be so bad). Play disc golf. These courses are popping up in parks everywhere and are fun for all ages. Just head to your nearby sporting goods store, and pick up a few discs before you go. Go on a scavenger hunt. Put together a list of items that can be found outdoors such as an oak leaf, clover, piece of trash, chunk of gravel, dandelion, pop can, speckled rock, wildflower, and so forth. Set a time limit. Then split up into two teams, and see who can bring home the most items on the list. Set up a lemonade stand. For entrepreneurial grandkids, this is a fun way to spend a spring day. Bake cookies or brownies, make some lemonade, and draw up some The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
colorful "Cookies & Lemonade" signs. Hang the signs at nearby corners and main intersections. Better yet, take advantage of the extra traffic when a neighbor is holding a yard sale. Go on a bike ride. Whether it's a ride through your neighborhood or on a paved park trail system, a bike ride is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy some sunshine and fresh air while taking in all the sights of spring. Hold a garage or toy sale. Have your grandkids clean out all their old toys and outgrown clothes and bring them over. Offer your grandkids to keep the proceeds for their things for helping you with the sale. Be sure to advertise it on Craigslist, and post 'yard sale' signs on nearby corners and your main intersection.
Attend a soccer or baseball game. Nothing says 'it's spring' like attending a baseball or soccer game. Get some tickets to a pro baseball game, or check the game schedule for your grandkids' school. Before you go, don't forget to dress in the colors of your favorite team. Take a nature drive in the country. Spring is the perfect time of year to roll down the windows and take a scenic drive. Kick back, put on some happy music, and enjoy the beautiful blue skies, budding green trees, and bursts of colorful flowers.
Kimberly Blaker is a lifestyle and parenting freelance writer. She also writes a blog, The Young Gma's Guide to Parenting at www.theyounggma.com Copyright © 2017 Kimberly Blaker, All rights reserved. Spring Into the
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This & tHAT Over The Edge for HIM 2018
Over the Edge is a special events company that provides signature events for non-profit organizations throughout the United States, Canada and other parts of the World. Participants raise donations for a non-profit in exchange for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to rappel Over the Edge of a local high-rise building. Hope Inspired Ministries (HIM) is the local non-profit conduscting their second annual Over The Edge fundraiser Friday, April 6 and Saturday, April 7th. Participants will be repelling over the edge of The 40 Four Building located in downtown Montgomary at 44 Market Plaza. The event is set up like a industrial worksite and is compliant with all federal and state OSHA Fall Protection Standards and OSHA Federal and State Laws. So get ready to leap for HIM and help them raise funds to teach people lifeskills and escape poverty. The event that not only benefits HIM, but Montgomery as well! We will have a block party at the 40 Four Building as part of the rappelling event, which will include vendors, retailers, music and more while watching people rappel. This will be a free event for people to come and watch people take the plunge and go “over the edge”! Yes! Businesses or a group of individuals can come together to raise money to send one (or more) people “over the edge”! Teams must raise a minimum of $1,000 to send one person, $2,000 for two people, etc. The team will have it’s own page where the money will be aggregated. Individuals can also join a team, which allows them to create an individual fundraising page that will be linked to the team page. People on a team can compete to see who can raise the most money for each team, with all of the money from individuals being aggregated onto the team page. For information on the Over The Edge event, please contact Michael Coleman, mscolemanjr@gmail. com or Karen Boan, karenboan@gmail.com For more details visit www.hopeinspiredministries.org
14th Annual Autism Crawfish Boil The BEST crawfish boil in the GUMP along with live music and cold beverages will happen Saturday, April 7, 12 – 5:30 pm at Dreamland Bar-B-Que, downtown Montgomery! All proceeds are donated to assist with Autism programs provided by Easter Seals Central Alabama for families in the River Region. These programs include Autism diagnosis which is costly and difficult to receive here in Central Alabama. Autism affects 1 in 88 children... Easter Seals is one of the premier organizations to get help for your loved ones! Early diagnosis is a must for these children. We hope you will help us by supporting this event. Tickets are $35. Ages 3 - 10 are $10. VIP tickets are $75. Early bug admission tickets are $25 (sold until Feb. 28). Tickets can be purchased on eventbrite. For more information, please call 334.262.0080. For more info visit www.autismmudbugball.org/
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Goya’s Ghosts @ MMFA Thursday, March 8, 5:30 – 8:30 pm MMFA will present Goya’s Ghosts, a sweeping historical epic, told through the eyes of celebrated Spanish painter Francisco Goya (Stellan Skarsgård). Set against the backdrop of political turmoil at the end of the Spanish Inquisition and start of the invasion of Spain by Napoleon’s army, the film captures the essence and beauty of Goya’s work which is best known for both the colorful depictions of the royal court and its people, and his grim depictions of the brutality of war and life in 18th–century Spain. When Goya’s beautiful muse (Natalie Portman) is accused of being a heretic, renowned painter Francisco Goya must convince his old friend Lorenzo (Javier Bardem), a power-hungry monk and leader of the Spanish Inquisition, to spare her life. Assistant Curator of Education Elisabeth Palmer will introduce the film and lead a brief discussion following. The Museum will provide complimentary popcorn, and beverages will be available for purchase. This event is free and open to the public. Call 334.240.4333 for more information or visit U
Cloverdale Playhouse-St. Patrick's Day Weekend A March 16 & 17, 7:30 pm. A staged reading for St. Patrick's Day weekend! An Irish journalist, English academic, and American doctor are being held captive by terrorists in Beirut. They exercise and they argue, supportive in their mutual determination to survive. The three display their national biases and prejudices, which are intensified in the cramped confines of their cell. This play contains strong language and adult themes and is recommended for audiences 17+. For more info or to order tickets visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org
Joys of Aging
Three mischievous old Grannies were sitting on a bench outside a nursing home, when an old Grandpa walked by. And one of the old Grandmas yelled out saying, "We bet we can tell exactly how old you are." The old man said, "There is no way you can guess it, you old fools." One of the old Grandmas said, "Sure we can! Just drop your pants and under shorts and we can tell your exact age." Embarrassed just a little, but anxious to prove they couldn't do it, he dropped his drawers. The Grandmas asked him to first turn around a couple of times and to jump up and down several times. Then they all piped up and said, "You're 87 years old!" Standing with his pants down around his ankles, the old gent asked, "How in the world did you guess?" Slapping their knees and grinning from ear to ear, the three old ladies happily yelled in unison..."We were at your birthday party yesterday!"
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Civil Ties-United Mudrun Civil Ties United has partnered with the Capital City Kiwanis Club and the Lagoon Park Trail Group to design a unique mud course here in Montgomery. On Saturday, March 24th there will be a wet-run of the course. The wet-run runners will pay $25. There will be T-shirts and prizes. The Civil Ties United Mudrun is a mud run with a message, a physical demonstration that despite our differences, we all run the same race. Participants who sign up for the 3-5-mile run are tethered to a person of a different race than themselves. The two-person teams must face 15 obstacles together that may require climbing, crawling, or wading through mud. The idea is to open a dialogue on diversity and show participants that if we’re going to make it, we have to do it together. Help us build the future of the Civil Ties United Mudrun by participating in our Wet-Run on March 24. Register at www.mmstiming.com/race/2018-civil-ties-united-mudrun/ For more information or visit www.facebook.com/civiltiesmontgomery/
43rd Historic Selma Pilgrimage SPRING PILGRIMAGE IN SELMA. The very words conjure up images of flowering beauty and historic homes dating back to the early 1800’s. We invite you to come and experience history from the Civil War to Civil Rights as you tour private homes, museums, gardens and much more. You’ll be enchanted with Selma’s special blend of Southern graces and historic places and the largest historic district in Alabama. Tourists from throughout the state, and the world at large, are fascinated with the diverse history and architecture found in Selma, and you will be too. Our Pilgrimage encompasses antebellum houses and industry, Victorian cottages, museums, and a semi-modern mansion, with accompanying stories guaranteed to enthrall visiting pilgrims. Selma was burned in 1865 by Wilson’s Raiders and our surviving antebellum homes are cherished and waiting to be admired and shared during Pilgrimage. Plan to share this event with friends, March 16-17. Tickets available 8:30 til 4 during Pilgrimage at headquarters, 109 Union St. For more information, call 334.412.8550. Find Selma’s Historic Pilgrimage on Facebook. Website: www.SelmaPilgrimage.com
Know an Outstanding Volunteer?
Nominees for the Volunteer of the Year awards run the gamut from high school students who read to children at Common Ground Montgomery to seniors answering phones at Jackson Hospital. None of them seeks the spotlight, but all of them are contributing to their community through time given to others. HandsOn River Region is accepting nominations for the 2018 Volunteer of the Year through March 19. All nominees will be recognized and receive a certificate and gift during the ceremony on April 26 at Trinity Presbyterian Church. For more than 40 years, the awards has become the region's largest volunteer recognition event, honoring individuals and groups who give their time and talent to improve their community and the overall quality of life. HandsOn River Region and the Junior League of Montgomery host the awards celebration each year during National Volunteer Week in April. The categories include: Adult Group, Adult Volunteer, Senior Volunteer, The Arts, Youth Group, Youth Volunteer. Don't delay! Visit www.handsonriverregion.org/volunteer-of-the-year-awards to nominate an outstanding volunteer today!
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Short Course: American Impressionism
MMFA offers a Short Course, Tuesdays, March 6, 13, and 20, at Noon. Educator Elisabeth Palmer will engage the topic of American Impressionism in a three-week short course. The course will address the beginnings of Impressionism in France, where American painter Mary Cassatt was working, and the evolution of the style in the U.S., where artists such as Childe Hassam and William Merritt Chase adopted the trend. American Impressionism will also examine the concepts that defined the movement, such as an interest in representing contemporary daily life. www.mmfa.org
Good Deeds Day is an annual celebration of good deeds. All over the world, hundreds of thousands choose to volunteer and help others putting into practice the simple idea that every single person can do something good, be it large or small, to improve the lives of others and positively change the world. Doing Good is simple. It's easy. You can clean a park, spruce up your neighborhood, spend time with the elderly, feed the homeless and so much more! HandsOn and Montgomery Clean City Commission invite you to join us on Friday, April 6 for our Good Deeds Day project: a grounds cleanup at the McInnis Center. We'll pick up debris, rake and spread pine straw to create a more welcoming and inviting atmosphere for the disabled children and adults the Center serves. If you'd like to participate, please register at volunteer.handsonriverregion.org.
Capital City Master Gardener Association Presents Free Lunch & Learn 2018 Capital City Master Gardener Association presents Lunch & Learn 2018 the 1st Wednesday of Every Month from 12-1 pm. We meet at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Downtown Montgomery. Mark your calendars March 7th-How to Add Color in the Landscape, Jane McCarthy, Horticulturist and April 4th Tomatoes, Tomatoes, Tomatoes! Mallory Kelley, Horticulturist. For information, please contact the Montgomery County Extension Office 334.270.4133. Also visit www.capcitymga.org FREE GARDEN HELPLINE: Can’t find the answer to a home gardening question? Call our Free Help Line for the general public. 1-877252-GROW (4769), Mon-Thurs 9am-1pm I March-August. The help line is operated by Master Gardener Volunteers who use researchbased information to best answer your gardening questions.
South American Wine Tasting
Stop by TASTE Wednesday March 7th and try some fantastic wines from South America. Tasting time will be 6 – 8 pm and the wines will include Marques De Casa Concha Carmenere, Chile, Marques De Casa Concha Chardonnay, Chile, Trivento Golden Reserve Malbec, Argentina, Trivento Amado Sur Torrontes, Mendoza. This event is free, and bottles of the tasting wines will be available for purchase. Call 334.676.4333 for more information or visit www.tastemgm.com or www.facebook. com/events/2090619357824098
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Top Secret Lima Site 85 to be Commemorated-50th Anniversary of Rescue Mission Medal of Honor Recipient CMSgt Richard L. Etchberger
March 11, 2018 will mark the 50th anniversary of the rescue mission and the fall of Top Secret Site 85 in Laos. The Air University Foundation is proud to support the Enlisted Heritage Research Institute - Enlisted Heritage Hall in commemorating the mission. Lima Site 85, a 5,600-foot-high mountain top radar site, was put in place in November of 1967 to facilitate the precision bombing of targets in and around Hanoi by our F-105 fighter aircraft during the monsoon season when targets were obscured by clouds for several months. Since the Air Force had no precision weapons at the time, bombing was halted giving the enemy a respite affording them the opportunity to move men and supplies down the Ho Chi Minh to the war in South Vietnam. Once the site was implemented and became operational we began to successfully bomb targets in and around Hanoi. This situation became untenable to the enemy and they quickly moved to attack and destroy site 85. On March 11, 1968, just four short months after the site became operational the North Vietnamese overran the site and began killing the men on duty. Of the 19 men manning the site that fateful night 11 were killed, including CMSgt Richard L. Etchberger who subsequently received the Medal of Honor for heroism. An Air America UH-1 Huey flown by Joe Panza, with CMSgt Richard L. Etchberger, Mr. Ken Wood and an Air Force HH-53B rescue helicopter, callsign Jolly Green 67 Medal of Honor recipient, in participated in the rescue efforts. The Executive Director of the AU Foundation, Col. the background (Ret), then Captain, Joe Panza was one of the pilots of Jolly Green 67. The Enlisted Heritage Hall, Maxwell AFB, will commemorate the LS-85 mission by expanding the existing Etchberger exhibit which houses CMSgt Etchberger's Medal of Honor. Plans are being made to conduct a memorial service and to unveil a granite bench that will honor the 11 men lost at LS-85. A documentary on LS-85 produced by Mr. Robert Zemekis will stream on Netflix in March to coincide with the anniversary of the fall of LS-85. You can read the complete exciting story of Lima Site 85 on-line or in Dr. Tim Castles definitive work, Top Secret Site 85 and the bombing of North Vietnam. Donations are being accepted to help fund the monument and granite Bust of CMSgt Richard L. bench. Contact Col. Joe Panza at 334.953.3174 for information on how you can help. Etchberger, Medal of Honor
Titus New Home Baptist Church to Host “Road to Resurrection” This Easter, travel the road through Jerusalem as if you were in ancient Israel when the greatest man who ever lived walked the earth. New Home Baptist Church will host “Road to Resurrection” on Sunday, March 25, from 3–5 p.m. at the corner of Sewell and Spigener Roads in Titus. We will have on-site registration on the day of the event. If you would like to request a tour time in advance, email your preferred time + last name + the number in your party to newhometitus@yahoo.com. If you have any questions or would like to request a tour time by phone, please call 334.567.0923 or 334.452.6111.
Gary Player’s Son Creates a Golf Tour for the All Golfers, Not a Select Few Wayne Player, Gary Player’s Son, has launched the Player Amateur Tour, presented by title sponsor OnCore Golf, that will transform the way amateur golfers compete against each other in the US. Taking the virtual sport fantasy league concept, they have created a platform for golfers of all skill levels to use the same type of technology to compete against each other in the real world with substantial prizes to be won. Almost all golfers love to compete and win, and most don’t have the time in their busy schedules to travel and play in organized events or have the ability / desire to pay excessive entry fees into these tournaments. “Golfers are out there playing anyway with friends and colleagues, and now you can simply post your scores on our Mobile APP and start earning leaderboard points, every time you play”. Golf is known as the “Game of Kings” but, to make sure that they keep it fair for all their Members, they have taken the time to customize and create specialized software algorithms that will curb cheating as far as possible. “Amateur golfers have been trusted for hundreds of years to enter their scores for handicap purposes, but no one has ever allowed them to use the same scores (whether it be social or competitive rounds) to earn leaderboard points as the Player Amateur Tour does” said Wayne. All Members will form part of the Tour’s product discount program whereby they will receive exclusive discounts from the Tour’s Sponsors and Partners. Free Player Golf Instructions are also accessible through the Mobile App to all members, free of charge. The Player Amateur Tour has created a platform for golfers of all skill levels to compete in a variety of flights and divisions, from USGA® affiliated members and to even players with no official golf club affiliation or handicap.For more information on joining the the Player Amateur Tour and the Player Corporate Cup, or for more details please visit www.theplayertour.com The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine 24 BOOM! March 2018 RiverRegionBoom.com
Cloverdale Playhouse Cabaret
Women of Hope
Breast Cancer Support Group Tuesday, March 13th, 5:30 p.m. Frazer UMC, Room 8114 6000 Atlanta Highway Enjoy fun and fellowship with your breast cancer “sisters” and friends!
The program will be: "Intimacy After Breast Cancer" Presented by Dr. Joe D. McClinton, Gynecologist
Montgomery Women’s Health Associates
Everyone is Welcome!
For information please call 334-220-4599 or email womenofhope@charter.net www.thewomenofhope.org
Grandparent's Event! The 2018 Riverfront Easter
Saturday, March 10, 7:30 – 9:30 pm, join the Cloverdale Playhouse for their first cabaret of the season! Director Randy Foster leads an ensemble of local talent in an evening of songs from Broadway and beyond. All proceeds go to benefit the Alabama Institute of Education in the Arts and the Playhouse School. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased through Eventbrite. Call 334.262.1530 for more information or visit ww.cloverdaleplayhouse.org/
Heart's for Children Valentine's Gala
The Montgomery Capital Rotary Club held their annual benefit fund raiser this year, the second annual Heart’s for Children VALENTINE’S GALA! Held at the Wynlakes Country Club Ballroom on Saturday February 10th, where the ballroom was stunningly decorated for Valentine’s Day with roses, heart shaped-balloons and lots of chocolates. Everyone enjoyed roast beef, shrimp and grits dinner and danced the night away with live entertainment featuring Montgomery’s Accent Band. Many great silent auction items and a raffle for those attending along with something new this year…a WINE WALL. The WINE WALL consisted of various white and red wines valued Gary and Amy Oos doing their anywhere from $20 to $400, all thing on the dance floor. wines were concealed in bags, so there were many great surprises for our wine drinkers! The Gala benefited two charities: one local, Brantwood Children’s Home and one international, Lunches for Learning, exists to break the cycle of poverty in rural Honduras by providing a nutritious lunch to elementary school children at their school every day; thereby allowing these children the opportunity to remain in school so they can complete their education and enter the workforce as literate individuals. To learn more about the Montgomery Capital Rotary Club or join one of their meetings contact Barry Morton, Membership lenna and Barry Morton feeling Chairman, directly at 334.202.8936 or send an email to: the love at Valentine's Gala barrymorton74@gmail.com. You can also visit www.montgomerycapitalrotary.org
Eggstravaganza Kids Fest will be held in Riverfront Park on Saturday, March 31st from 12pm-2pm. This event will feature Easter egg hunts, games, face painting, balloon animals, MPD K-9 demo, fire truck display, food vendors and the Easter Bunny. Bring the family out for a fun filled,”eggstra” special day! This event is FREE and open to the public. Kids are encouraged to bring their Easter Baskets, so they can capture hidden eggs located in the park area. Call 334.625.2100 for more information or visit www.facebook.com/ events/1458049780990870/ The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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Ask an Elder Law Attorney
By: Raley L. Wiggins | Attorney at Law | Red Oak Legal, PC
Know When to Hold ‘Em When I was in college the No-Limit Texas Hold ‘Em fad was sweeping its way through the dregs of ESPN2 and other cable “sports” networks. It even found its way into my circle of friends, which I found irritating since I wasn’t interested in having a seat at that table. Personally, I’ve always been a gambling agnostic—I don’t particularly have a problem with other people gambling if that’s how they choose to spend their money. I understand that for some, the competition and the little rush they get from winning a big hand is exciting. What I could never understand, what I will never understand, is the appeal of watching other people play poker on television. To each his own. Plenty of people have made analogies about life and card playing. Perhaps the best known example is the Kenny Rogers tune, The Gambler and it’s hook which I’m confident, after you read this article, will be stuck in your head for at least the next several hours: You got to know when to hold ‘em, know when to fold ‘em / know when to walk away, and know when to run. / You never count your money, when you’re sittin’ at the table / They’ll be time enough for counting / when the dealin’s done. Since this is an estate planning and elder law column, I’ll do my best to see what we can learn about planning your estate from a classic country song. Know When to Hold ‘Em. Sometimes the best thing you can do is to do nothing at all. Consider this: leaving an inheritance to someone who doesn’t have the tools to manage it can lead to disaster. For example, leaving a teenager even a relatively modest amount of money, without any strings attached, can be a recipe for disaster. Likewise, loved ones may be ill-equipped to handle an inheritance due to substance abuse problems, or even gambling problems. Sometimes the best thing you can do for someone you love is to leave them an inheritance in a way that benefits them, without giving them unfettered access to money that may only exacerbate
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their problems. Consider a testamentary trust provision to protect your heirs from themselves.
truth. We have no way to know who will be alive at the time we die, or what kind of property we will own at our deaths. We may have more property as the result of Know When to Fold ‘Em / Know When successful investments, inheritance, or even to Walk Away. Sometimes you’ve got a the lottery (in another state, of course). On bad hand, and you’re sitting across the the other hand, we may have much less table from someone you can’t bluff. Time property due to poor investments or due to to cut your losses and fold. In my line of the cost of a nursing home stay (currently about $6,000 per month) or some other Estate Planning and Asset Protection Workshop financial pitfall. As a Wednesday, March 28: Hosted by Red Oak Legal, PC: 1:30-3:30 result, your pm at the Archibald Senior Center (MACOA) in Montgomery. This estate plan educational workshop presented by local attorney Raley L. Wiggins must include contingencies covers wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance directives, living for dealing wills, probate administration, protecting assets from creditors, with these ups bankruptcy, divorce and remarriage, nursing homes, long-term care and downs.
Attend Free Workshop
and Medicaid qualification. Registration is required. Call 334-625-6774 today to reserve your seat or register online at www.redoaklegalpc.com.
business, I sometimes have to counsel clients who, after much angst and heavy thought, decide to disinherit one or more of their children. For whatever reason, the relationship between the parent and child has deteriorated to the point where the parent feels as though leaving that child an inheritance would not be appropriate. This is part of my job that I do not relish, but the fact is that sometimes it is the right thing to do under the circumstances. When a parent has tried everything they can to encourage a wayward child to change their ways, cutting their inheritance may be the last best way to get their attention. Don’t Count Your Money While You’re Sittin’ at the Table. Most people assume that everyone in their family will die when they are “supposed to.” That is, they assume that their children will outlive them, that their grandchildren will outlive their children, and so on. Most people also assume that they’ll die in pretty much the same financial condition as they are in on the day that they create their estate plan. Nothing of course could be further from the
Consider for example that the day you wrote your will you had $220,000 in the bank. Your will leaves a gift of $20,000 to your church, and splits whatever is left between your four children. Ten years pass, and your health declines. After a long stay in a nursing home, you pass away with only $15,000 left in the bank. In that case, your church would receive $15,000, and your children would receive nothing. While leaving it to the church is a good and noble thing to do, it probably wasn’t what you intended when you drafted your will. But, by assuming you know what you will have when you die, your children wound up with no inheritance at all. You never know what hand life will deal you, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a strategy before you ante up and turn your cards over. You have to know when to hold ‘em . . . Raley L. Wiggins Attorney at Law, Red Oak Legal, PC 334-239-3625 | info@redoaklegalpc.com 312 Catoma Street, Suite 150, Montgomery, AL 36104, www.redoaklegalpc.com
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BOOM! COVER PROFILE
Donna Marietta, Leadership for Seniors This month’s BOOM! Cover Profile is Donna Marietta. Donna is someone many of you know or perhaps you volunteer in the valuable program she directs, Meals on Wheels. Donna is the Executive Director for MACOA and plays a big role in helping feed hundreds of seniors in the River Region through Meals on Wheels. They delivered 120,00 hot nutritious meals in 2017, along with plenty of smiles and a safety check for homebound seniors. Donna has a great attitude and understands the aging market better than most and to get the most out of her day she tries to employ the 3 E's...Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy. We recently spent some time getting to know Donna and she does use the 3 E's and so much more for our River Region Seniors. We hope you enjoy getting to know her as much as we have.
Tom and Donna in Florence, Italy in November, 2017
Donna and Tom enjoying the beach in Ponce Inlet, Florida, with Westies, Murphy and Katie
BOOM!: Please give us a brief biography, i.e. where you’re from, education, what brought you to the Montgomery area, did you raise your family here, schools, married, family, etc? Donna: I was born in Mobile, Alabama. My father was a Methodist minister, and my mother was a teacher. During my childhood, we lived in several Alabama and Florida towns, and I learned to get to know and make new friends whenever my father was assigned to a new church. That experience has helped me throughout my life. My two children, SueBeth Jordan and Bert Langford, were raised in Montgomery, and when they were teenagers, I decided to go back to complete my education. I graduated from Huntingdon College, Magna Cum Laude, and went looking for a job. Since I had been a community volunteer and a scout leader for ten years, I asked for advice from the CEO of the Girl Scouts and she immediately said she wanted to hire me. That was the easiest job interview
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Donna and Tom decorating King Cake for Mardi Gras party
I ever had. The years of volunteering also led to a position in healthcare at Baptist Medical Center as the Director of Volunteer Services. During the four years at Baptist, I went to Auburn University at Montgomery in the evenings and earned a Master in Public Administration degree. That degree enabled me to move into the field of Marketing and Public Relations where I worked for ten years in the Atlanta area with Columbia Healthcare Corporation. My boss at that time was Rick Scott, who is now the Governor of Florida!
Alabama Family, L to R, Top to Bottom, Nigel Guntharp, Bert Langford, Patrick Lyons, SueBeth Jordan, Jimmy Lyons, Bobby Jordan, Beth Marietta-Lyons, Donna holding Bitsy and Haley Guntharp. (Husband, Tom, was the photographer)
When managed care changed the healthcare market in Atlanta, I returned to Montgomery to be the Executive Director of Child Protect, and I met my future husband, Dr. Tom Gannaway, in the Montgomery Rotary Club where we were members. We were both offered jobs in Daytona Beach Florida area, so we moved and married in 2004 in Ponce Inlet, Florida. Our wedding was held in our home with friends and a blended
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
and merged smile, conversation and provide a safety Region? How family of check-up. The program not only helps do you fund five adult seniors stay in their own homes but it MACOA? What children also helps them stay healthier. They feel can BOOM! attending. they are not forgotten and are part of Readers do While in the community and not isolated. Twentyto help? Florida, I six percent of our clients are veterans What does continued or spouses of veterans. In 2017 we the future to work with provided 120,000 nourishing meals and look like for children in the summer of 2018, we will reach the MACOA? as the milestone of 4,000,000 meals provided Executive since delivering our first route more than Donna: The Director forty-five years ago! Montgomery of the Area Council Grandson Nigel Guntharp with wife, Haley, and their children, Bella and Bo Children’s Our Retired Senior Volunteer Program On Aging Advocacy Center of Volusia and Flagler (RSVP) offers volunteer opportunities for (MACOA) supports the independence Counties and later with the North Coastal seniors in five counties (Montgomery, and well- being of seniors. We have been Division of the Children’s Home Society. Autauga, Elmore, Coosa and Tallapoosa) providing services since 1972. Thanks Tom had a very successful career in real to lead to strong estate selling oceanfront and mainland meaningful community homes and condos. We loved living in lives by support during that beach community and riding our making those 45 years, bikes, when the tide was out, on the worthwhile we have been hard sand. We were riding right where contributions able to serve the racing cars drove when the idea for to non-profit our community the Daytona International Speedway and and healththrough a NASCAR was born. related multitude groups, of programs Five years ago, we moved back to organizations with the help Montgomery when I accepted the job at and agencies of thousands MACOA because we wanted to be closer in their of volunteers to two of our children and my grandson, community and donors. Nigel Guntharp. Tom continued to work including Our flagship Donna with Grandson, Nigel Guntharp, Daughter, SueBeth in real estate and is the Broker/Owner schools, program, Meals Langford Jordan, and Son, Bert Langford of Our Town Realty and the Capital libraries, On Wheels, Real Estate School. Tom also teaches hospitals and government offices. The enables homebound seniors to remain statewide for the Alabama Association of volunteers are carefully matched to in their own homes instead of having to Realtors. Montgomery is our home now, meaningful services based on their make other choices such as living in a and we both love being a part of this experience, talents, and personal desire. nursing home or an assisted living facility. community. The result is seniors helping themselves MACOA has by helping their community. In fiscal year over 1400 BOOM!: 2017, there were 1,197 RSVP volunteers, volunteers You are the and they served 134,737 volunteer hours and they Executive at 140 volunteer locations. The value of help deliver Director of the service conducted in the five counties the hot, MACOA, totals over $3.3 million. nutritious could you meals each please share MACOA operates two senior activity weekday. with our centers which are the Archibald Center Meals On readers what and MACOA East. These centers offer a Wheels is MACOA variety of educational and enrichment more than is and activities to help keep senior citizens, age a meal the value 50 and older, remain healthy, active and because the of their motivated. volunteers Texas Grandchildren, L to R, Blair Jane, Helen Grace, Elizah Walter, Taryn Grace, Reagan Lynn, and Mary Tate. Children of son, Lt. Col. services to offer a Bruce Gannaway, and wife, Sarah, and daughter, Gwen Pyle, and the River MACOA has a diverse funding stream but friendly husband, Walter (photo taken at Fort Hood, Texas, in 2017 )
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our largest style? What Directors, Leadership Team and staff percentage does success and thousands of volunteers who have of funds look like at a passion for seniors. They all have a (55%) is MACOA? constant and total “can-do” attitude! provided through Donna: I I strive to be a participative leader. I value donations. believe in the input of team members but know Government managing that I am responsible and accountable provides a nonfor the final decisions. I have made many 31% and profit like a changes since joining MACOA and I hope United Way business. It is that they know I value their opinions and awarded my fiduciary input even though they might not agree 7% of our responsibility with my final decisions. The Leadership Donna and Tom traveling with Jimmy Lyons and sister, Beth budget in to the Team and I are constantly setting Marietta-Lyons in Seville, Spain 2017. The donors “SMART” goals (Specific, Measurable, remaining 7% is a combination of service and funders to use the funds wisely Achievable, Realistic, and Timely) fees, investments, and other sources. and prepare an annual budget with which I think helps keep us all on track, the Leadership Team and Board of motivated, confident and fulfilled. The list of what BOOM! Readers can do Directors which is regularly to help is endless. Here are six ways to monitored to evaluate any help our local seniors: 1) Become a driver variations. My goal is, at for a Meals On Wheels route once a the end of the fiscal year, to week, twice a month or once in a while, have a positive balance, and 2) Encourage your business, church or for the five years that I have organization to become a Corporate managed MACOA, we have Route Partner and enlist a team of accomplished that goal. Since volunteers to deliver a regular Meals On MACOA relies heavily on Wheels route, 3) Participate in or sponsor donations, I work with staff to MACOA activities, such as one of our prepare a realistic fundraising fundraisers, 4) Make a single or monthly plan with goals that we strive donation, 5) Encourage your church or to maximize and exceed. organization to prepare meals for our One of our “best practices” Frozen Meals Program, 6) Donate pet was the development and food for our pet food program. implementation of a Strategic CEO Roundtable, Taken in December, 2017, L to R, Back Row, Russ Plan to use as a road map. The Russell, Cassandra Crosby, John Marshall, Brad Armagost, Front Row, Today in Montgomery, one in six seniors Board and staff know that we Dana Moore, Annamarie Jones, Donna, Clare Weil, Electra Henry, and Willie Durham. Missing Lance Hunter, Scott McNelley and Cedric Varner struggles with hunger and too many are will be held accountable to left behind, alone and hungry, struggling obtain the objectives and desired results. to stay independent and healthy. ThirtyEveryone knows that I love to celebrate Success for MACOA means being able seven % of seniors over 65 rely only on successes so we frequently do. We pat to improve the quality of our services Social Security. ourselves on and increasing the number of seniors By the year 2030, the back for we support. Recently we raised funds more than 20% goals that to enlarge our kitchen so we could of Alabamians have been improve the quality of our food and will be over 65 met and expand our Meals On Wheels program. and our services give credit We are dependent on the generosity of will be even more to those our community for financial support as needed and in who made well as people to volunteer to help. We demand. it happen. could not operate any of our programs Another without loyal and committed volunteers BOOM!: The “best and continued financial support from the Toasting a successful landing of a hot air balloon with Glen River Region has practice” community. Zorn and Dottie Blair in Jackson Hole, Wyoming many successful that I began non-profit organizations, please share was to produce an annual report that BOOM!: As a leader in providing services some of your insights into what the best shows the impact of our services so to our senior community how would you practices are in managing a successful funders, donors and the community can rate our ability to take care of the aging non-profit in the River Region? How see the results. Finally, MACOA has been population in the River Region? What can would you describe your leadership blessed to have the very best Board of we do more of?
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Donna: If we had a report card for the I am Nana to all of my twelve there is water – that’s my comfort zone. Montgomery area and the state of grandchildren and great grandchildren. If we are not at Lake Martin, Tom and I Alabama, I am afraid It is so much fun travel to Dauphin Island near Mobile to that we would receive playing and being join my sister, Beth, and her husband, a very low grade. There with my grandkids Jimmy Lyons, at their beach condo. is no question that we wherever we are – Beth and I ride our bikes all over the are failing our seniors Alabama, Texas or island. I love being outside, enjoying and who are some of the Maryland. Baking appreciating the beauty of nature. state’s most vulnerable cookies, reading a citizens. We live in the book, playing a game, BOOM!: What are you most passionate greatest and richest and going to watch about? nation on Earth, and them play sports, it is no one should face a blessing to be a part Donna: I am most passionate about the threat of hunger. of their lives. MACOA and how we will meet the Unfortunately, we are challenges of the “Silver Tsunami” that a society and a culture BOOM!: You have is coming ashore in Montgomery, in that allows the weakest traveled extensively, Alabama and across our nation as our to become victims what are some of senior population increases in numbers. whether they are your favorite travel MACOA can provide a senior with Meals Donna biking on Dauphin Island children or seniors. experiences? Favorite on Wheels for 1 year for roughly the vacation spot? Any same cost as 6 days in a nursing home We must prepare to meet the needs of travel dreams planned? and 1 day in a hospital. People are living the increasing population of seniors. longer and tax payers can save billions in We need to find the most cost-effective Donna: Tom and I have traveled in the Medicaid & Medicare costs if we assist health care system. Our health care last few years with friends to California seniors to remain in their homes. system has traditionally focused on and Wyoming and to visit children and providing care through hospitals and grandchildren in Maryland and Texas. BOOM!: How do you like to relax and nursing homes but, with rising costs, the My favorite travel experience was to wind down from a hard day’s work? need for more home and communityWyoming and the magnificent Tetons. based options is critical. Caring for our We joined Donna: older population will be the most serious four other After work, demographic challenge of our time. Montgomery I often stop couples in at the AUM BOOM!: With a busy life, how do Jackson Hole Wellness you spend time with family? What’s and explored Center for a your special experience of being Yellowstone workout or a grandmother? What do your National class before grandchildren call you? Park, went I go home. on a hot air When I arrive Donna: Now that I am living in balloon ride, home, I am Montgomery and not eight hours away and saw lots greeted at the in Florida, we often get together. We are of wild life in door by our able to celebrate birthdays and holidays that beautiful two Westies Board Members Sieu Tang Wood, Chair, Sue Groce, Co-Chair, Past (West together as well as joyous occasions such countryside. President Pete Knight and Donna greeting guests at MACOA’s An- Highland as weddings, births and christenings. Four We also have nual International Tasting Fundraiser years ago, my grandson, Nigel Guntharp, traveled White married Haley Howell. We are so happy with my sister, Beth Marietta-Lyons and Terriers), Marti and Abby. Tom is a great to have Haley and her daughter, Bella, in her husband, Jimmy Lyons. We have cook and he might be in the kitchen our family. They now have a two year old been to Spain and Italy with them and starting dinner so over a glass of wine, son, Bo, and are expecting a baby girl in plan to go on a Danube River Cruise in we share our day as we finish preparing May, 2018. October, 2018, with a total of eight family our meal. I enjoy spending time each members. My daughter, SueBeth Jordan, evening playing with our Westie girls and My daughter, SueBeth Jordan, plans and her husband, Bobby Jordan, are giving them plenty of attention. I have weekends at Lake Martin where our scheduled to go with us as well as Beth & learned so much over the years from family spends hours in and on the Jimmy’s son, Patrick Lyons, and his friend, our dogs. They give and receive love water - swimming and boating. I love to Megan Kelly. unconditionally with great enthusiasm. spend time on my paddleboard or kayak The first Westie in my life, Murphy, taught exploring the lake and getting exercise. My favorite vacation spot is anywhere me to stretch each morning when you The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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wake. Murphy could stretch better than anyone I have ever known and I always think of him when I stretch in the mornings.
members of the Forester Sunday School Class where we have many wonderful friends. We also enjoy being members of a monthly supper club composed of church members.
BOOM!: Do you have time to Donna and Past Board President Dottie Blair with be involved in BOOM!: What is it Entertainers at International Tasting Fundraiser community, civic about living in the or other activities? Montgomery/River Faith based organizations? Region area that you like? Donna: Wherever I have lived, I have always been a volunteer in the community. I applied and was selected to be in three different Chamber of Commerce leadership programs so I could learn about the strengths and weaknesses of communities where I lived. I was in the first class of Leadership Montgomery, Leadership Gwinnett in Gwinnett County, Georgia, and Leadership Daytona in Daytona Beach, Florida. Now that I am back in Montgomery, I am a board member of the Montgomery Rotary Club, a member of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce and CEO Roundtable. I am a member of the First United Methodist Church where I serve on the Administration Board and Chair the Outreach Committee. Tom and I are
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Donna: Of course, I am enjoying being closer to family since we returned to Montgomery. Tom and I have also reconnected with many friends that we knew when we lived here before. I work downtown and have noticed many improvements for visitors and everyone to enjoy. I like that our city is now known as the Capital of Dreams. Montgomery is a great city with a variety of activities from the Biscuits games to the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Plus our city is only a few hours from the beach and the lake. BOOM!: As you’ve aged, how have your priorities changed? Donna: I like to be around positive people and try to stay away from energy vampires and people with negative
attitudes. I was invited to join a Girls Night Out group. We meet for dinner and fun conversation. This group of ladies is positive and uplifting. We laugh, listen, and celebrate birthdays together. We are also there for each other in times of family troubles. At my age, when I am talking to my husband, family or friends about a meeting or task, I try to remember to replace the words “I have to” with “I get to”. I am lucky to be active and able to do most anything physically that I want to do. BOOM!: Give us three words that describe you? Donna: Energetic, Passionate, and Indefatigable. Those adjectives came from the MACOA Leadership Team and Elected Officers of the Board of Directors. I asked for their comments since we often see ourselves differently from how others see us. I had to look up indefatigable. It means (of a person or their efforts) persisting tirelessly. BOOM!: Do you have any hobbies or other activities that grab your attention? Donna: Tom and I share the joy of cooking and entertaining, so I grow herbs to cut and use for meal preparation and garnish on the plates. Herbs can also be
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used for table decorations and flower arrangements. Baking homemade breads as well as scones and King Cakes for Mardi Gras is my favorite part of cooking. The smell of freshly baked bread is the best. BOOM!: Many people over 50 are experiencing a renewed sense of purpose, new goals, even in retirement. How would you describe this sense of renewal in your life? Any advice for the rest of us seeking renewal?
We’ve spent a lot of time over the last few years making sure our records are up to date and accessible. Technology makes that process easier, but only if the organization sets it as a priority, and individuals keep records current.
Girls Night Out Ladies, Taken in December, 2017, L to R, Standing, Michelle Goodwyn, Rhonda Holtan, Sarah Kinzer, Carol Collins, Terry Chilton, Sandra Dossett, Alison Williamson, Grace White, Jill Sheen, Clare Weil, Pam Hitchcock, Sitting, Donna and Cristen Bozeman
Donna: I don’t plan to retire for many years, but I do think you should seize the day – carpe diem. Tomorrow is not promised to anyone and we don’t know what is around the corner. Each day we wake is a present so I try to start each day by thinking what is my purpose today? If possible, I try to live with the 3 E’s – Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy. One thing that I have found helpful to me in recent years is to practice yoga and mindfulness – “being in the present”. My life-long habit has been to make lists and think about what I need to do next, so now I am trying to enjoy the present. BOOM!: Technology is rooted in almost every aspect of our lives. What’s your
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relationship with the digital world? Does technology help you run a smarter organization? Donna: There’s a saying that the past is your best teacher, and that is true in non-profit organizations as well as in life. Donor records, board decisions and important dates are the kinds of data that are so valuable as organizational leaders make decisions. As people start non-profits with a great purpose and mission, they don’t always think, “We need to save those files for the future”. MACOA is taking great care to do so now. In the last few years, I have approved the investment of two new software programs, DonorPerfect for development and ServTracker for Meals On Wheels.
As a non-profit, it is vital that we communicate our message and show the impact of our services. Our social media posts, newsletters and website keep our supporters and friends up to date with what is happening at MACOA. It is an effective way to recognize and thank volunteers, churches and organizations that are helping make a difference in our community. BOOM! Readers who use Facebook, please look at our page – Montgomery Area Council On Aging – and like us! We want to thank Donna for helping us put together this month’s BOOM! Cover Profile. If you want to learn more or share a thought with Donna, email her at dmarietta@ macoa.org Also, consider volunteering with MACOA, they do good work and it makes our community a better place to live. For more info visit www.macoa.org. We want to thank the portrait team at Total Image Portraits for their quality work. If you have questions, comments or suggestions about our cover profiles, including nominating someone, please send them to jim@riverregionboom.com Read all of the BOOM! Cover Profiles at http://riverregionboom.com/archive/
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Pickleball
The Sport Older Americans Can’t Get Enough Of! Pickleball has been described as a cross between tennis, ping pong and badminton. The sport was started in Bainbridge Island, Washington in 1965 by Barney McCallum, Bill Bell, and former U.S. Congressman Joel Pritchard who served in Congress from 1973-1985. Pritchard and McCallum were trying to enjoy their vacation homes on Bainbridge Island when, in an effort to get their kids out of the house on a dreary day, picked up some ping pong paddles and a plastic ball and began making up a game on a badminton court. What was meant to be a game to occupy their children quickly became an adult obsession for McCallum, Pritchard and their friends. McCallum soon discarded the ping pong paddles for custom paddles he made in his woodworking shop. In an online video, Barney McCallum’s son David recalled: “It became very soon an adult activity rather than a kids’ activity. These were charismatic men. They were always up to something and they got this game going and it just kind of took on a world of its own, making up rules as they went. The rules just got developed on an as needed basis. Dick Brown is a large man. He’s six-foot-four, and aggressive, and he would run up to the net and spike the ball. So, there was this short serve line on this court for the badminton at six-foot-six, and they just kind of made up the rule; they said,
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‘hey Dick, you got to stand behind that line to hit’…so, that was the beginning of the non-volley zone. The net height was established at thirty-six inches. The reason it ended up at thirty-six inches is that was the height of Joel Pritchard’s waist.” There was never any discussion of making the game the commercial sports phenomenon it has become over the years. The men played the game purely for their own personal enjoyment. On weekends, they would gather friends and go down to Pritchard’s house to play “pickleball.” It’s debatable where the name came from. (Some say a dog named Pickle would frequently run away with the ball.) But as they played, the game matured and grew in popularity. The families that played pickleball in the summer months on Bainbridge Island took it home with them in the fall. They played pickleball in the streets of Seattle where neighbors, craving exercise in the winter time, watched, learned and joined in the fun. Soon, some neighbors decided to put a pickleball court in their yard. Seattle University heard about the game and started a “pickleball night” on
campus. Then Joel Pritchard decided to run for Congress. At his campaign events he would set up the game and announce to the gathering, “we’re going to play a little pickleball now.” He would select four people, explain the rules and referee the game—an unorthodox approach to politics—but a most effective way to spread the joy of pickleball! In a feature story of The Sports Observer titled, “If It’s Green, It Must Be Pickle Ball,” Douglas S. Looney wrote, “The perforated, lightweight ball is slowed dramatically in flight, which eliminates the advantage of physical power. There’s a seven-foot penalty zone on each side in front of the net, which prevents tall players from controlling the game. The size of the court (roughly two-thirds that of a tennis court) put less of a premium on physical condition and more on tactics. All this means that anyone, save infants and the infirm, can play. The game is much slower than tennis and rallies can go for longer periods. It’s not as affected by the wind as badminton. It can be played (singles or as doubles) on wet courts or even during rain, if you’re that dedicated.” When the publisher of a west coast paper spoke to an editor in New York about the popularity of pickleball being played in Seattle, the editor sent a reporter out to Seattle to learn more. Upon returning to New York, the reporter called McCallum requesting a “pickleball kit.” McCallum obliged, selling him a pickleball kit for $29.50. Days later the The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
mail man delivered stacks of envelopes containing checks for $29.50 and additional orders for kits. What started as a simple form of zany family recreation morphed into a substantial business enterprise when McCallum began receiving requests for pickleball sets—four paddles, balls and a net, “…from people all over the place. We were forced into business,” he said. McCallum created a business entity to handle the money people were sending him for pickleball paddles, nets and balls. He began warehousing supplies of nets and balls; and manufacturing paddles to meet demand. At first, he put the money in a cigar box. A year later the business became better organized when McCallum’s son became the first employee of the company in 1977, creating brand awareness with formal packaging. Some of the early players of the game from Bainbridge Island and Seattle appeared on the first pickleball box designed for shipping sets. When public school physical education instructors across the country began incorporating pickleball into classes, the game took on the status of a sport. McCallum, himself, did not fully realize the breadth of the “sport” he and his friends had created until he attended his first National Pickleball Tournament in Phoenix where he encountered 650 serious and enthusiastic pickleball players competing for 1st Place. The game has continued to grow as a well-rounded activity enjoyed by people everywhere. Indeed, the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) claims “pickleball is a fast-rising sport that older Americans can’t seem to get enough of.” For more information, visit www.usapa.org. Play Pickleball in the River Region: Downtown YMCA - 334.269.4362 Frazer JEMAC Activities Center - 334-495-6458 AUM Wellness Center - 334.244.3484 Jeff S. Barganier is a freelance writer and business manager of Cindy Barganier Interiors LLC. He travels far and wide upon the slightest excuse for something interesting to write about. Contact Jeff at Jeffbarganier@knology.net. Follow him on Instagram: #jeffbarganier.
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Depression Is Far More Sinister Than Sadness And Women Are Particularly at High Risk
By Kimberly Blaker
I was about 31 when I was first diagnosed with major depression. I was married, had two beautiful kids ages 7 and 3, and owned a thriving business. Despite having plenty to live for, my usual happy mood had plummeted into despair. I'd lie awake at night ruminating about every minor thing I had ever said or done wrong – or imperfectly. During the day, I had no motivation to do anything. The most simple everyday tasks suddenly required extraordinary effort. My life felt utterly worthless, despite all evidence to the contrary, and I was engulfed in sorrow and hopelessness. As days turned into weeks, I continued to spiral on a downward path. I became increasingly focused on death. I wasn't suicidal, per se – though thoughts of the least painful methods of ending my suffering certainly swirled around in my mind. But I wanted nothing more than to fall asleep and never wake again. Finally, unable to endure the emptiness any longer and terrified by my thoughts, I sought help. I was immediately started on an antidepressant, and within a few short weeks, the darkness lifted. I was my usual happy, energetic self once again.
everyone experiences from time to time, is a soul-sucking darkness that for many is debilitating. It causes feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness, and can affect every aspect of life from work and school to parenting, friendships, and the very basics of living.
dysthymic episode – a depression that lasted two years, cycling between mild and severe. I had become resistant to my long-trusted friend, Wellbutrin, and none of the many other medications I tried gave me any relief. It was when I finally found a psychopharmacologist who knew just the right cocktail (combination of medications) for me that my depression finally went back into remission. People with depression often suffer from various forms. In addition to being diagnosed with major depressive disorder and dysthymia, I've also been diagnosed with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and bipolar II (hypomania, rather than mania) with the depression component being the more severe problem for me.
But this was only the beginning of what would become a lifelong battle with depression. Over the past couple decades, I've gone through far too many bouts of depression to count. Some have been mild and short-lived having little impact on my functioning despite the bleak and gloomy outlook looming over me. Other episodes have been major and affected all aspects of my life.
Women are particularly at risk for depression
Most recently, I experienced my first
Depression, unlike the normal sadness
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Depression does affect both women and men. But, women are twice as likely to experience major depression according to Harvard Medical School. Women also experience higher rates of dysthymia, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and the depressive side of bipolar disorder.
For most women who've been diagnosed with depression in the past, when it begins to set in, the feeling is unmistakable. But for those who suffer from milder forms of depression and sometimes even those suffering from a first major depressive episode, they don't immediately connect all the dots. So, some people can experience depression not realizing they're suffering from a treatable illness. Signs of depression The symptoms of depression can range from mild to severe. Not everyone experiences every symptom. But several symptoms must be present for at least two weeks to receive a diagnosis of depression. The exact criteria for specific types of depression vary slightly. But the following are all indicators. S Feeling depressed (sad, empty, or hopeless) nearly every day for at least a couple weeks S Unusual irritability or difficulty controlling anger S Ongoing trouble sleeping or sleeping more than usual S An increase or decrease in appetite or significant unexplained weight loss or gain S Loss of interest or pleasure in all or most activities S Difficulty concentrating or making decisions S Feelings of fatigue or loss of energy S Excessive or inappropriate feelings of guilt or worthlessness S Visible psychomotor slowing down or agitation S Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, with or without a plan, or attempted suicide The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Types of depression There are quite a few classifications, or types, of depression. The following are a few of the more common. In a given year, major depressive disorder affects nearly 7% of U.S. population, according to the National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH). During a major depression, almost all aspects of a person's life are affected. It can be difficult for someone with major depression to find the motivation to do anything including such necessities as taking a shower. As a result of the impairment, both work and personal life suffer. In addition to the symptoms in the section above, 20% of people with major depression will also experience psychosis. This means they'll experience hallucinations and delusions. Dysthymia (dys·thy·mi·a) is diagnosed when a person has experienced depression for most of each day and on most days for at least two years. For many, it's a lower level but enduring depression. But people with major depression who are treatment resistant can meet the diagnosis of dysthymia as well. So those with dysthymia can range from mild to severe impairment. Women, according to HealthFundingResearch.org, are three times more likely than men to suffer from dysthymia. Those with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) become depressed only or primarily during a particular season. For most with SAD, it's the fall and winter months with their shorter days and reduced sunshine. But some people experience SAD during the summer months instead. The onset of SAD is typically around the age of 20 and affects 10 million Americans each year. Bipolar disorder affects 2.6% of American adults according to the NIMH. This treatable, but lifelong disease typically develops in women in their mid to upper 20s. For men, onset is usually in the teens to the early 20s. Bipolar is
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signified by its bouts of both mania (or hypomania) and its opposite extreme, depression. Though an individual with bipolar will experience both sides of the spectrum, in women, depression is often the most problematic while for men it's the mania. Those with bipolar often experience psychosis during bouts of mania and sometimes with depression. Causes The exact cause of depression is unknown. But several factors likely contribute to the condition. According to the Mayo Clinic, those with depression have physical changes in their brains. These changes in the brain may eventually help researchers determine the exact cause of depression. Depression is also known to be genetic because of the higher incidence of depression in those with blood relatives who suffer from the condition. Brain chemicals called neurotransmitters play a role in depression. The Mayo Clinic explains that the way the neurotransmitters function and how they affect the neurocircuits involved in mood stability plays a significant role both in depression and its treatment. Hormonal changes can also play a role in depression, particularly for women. During pregnancy and for several months following pregnancy women are especially vulnerable. Menstruation cycles and menopause can also trigger depression. Treatment In some cases, depression results from an underlying medical condition such as thyroid problems or low vitamin B levels. For this reason, it's essential to visit your primary care physician for blood work to rule out other causes. If the cause of depression is the result of an underlying medical condition, treatment for that condition is likely all that's needed to cure the depression.
If medical causes have been ruled out, then it's best to consult with a psychiatrist. Although primary care physicians can treat depression, psychiatrists have specialized training in diagnosing the various forms of depression and experience in treating them. Psychiatrists often know which medications will work best for a particular patient based on a variety of factors. In fact, depending on the type of depression and the specific set of symptoms, some people with depression require a combination of antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and mood stabilizers. Psychiatrists know how to tailor treatment to each individual for best results. For those who are treatment resistant, look for a psychiatrist with the special 'psychopharmacologist' designation. Psychopharmacologists have gone through additional specialized training in how drugs affect the mind and behavior. In addition to medication, many psychiatrists recommend cognitive therapy with a psychologist or behavioral therapist in conjunction. This can be helpful both in coping with the effects of depression as well as dealing with any underlying trauma or events fueling the depression. Finally, for those with SAD, sitting under a light therapy box is often recommended and has been found to be helpful. You can order one online, and depending on your doctor's recommendations, you can sit under it for 20 to 40 minutes each day. Kimberly Blaker is the author of a kid's STEM book, Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery? She has also suffered from and been in treatment for various forms of depression for the past 22 years. Kimberly Blaker is a lifestyle and parenting freelance writer. She also writes a blog, The Young Gma's Guide to Parenting at www.theyounggma.com
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Eating Smart with Tracy Bhalla
I have always loved honey, in all its pure forms – runny honey, solid honey, honeycomb…. yum! The food industry never ceases to surprise me in the ways it tries to fool people into buying something they think is one thing, but in fact is a synthetic reproduction or at best an adulterated version of the real thing. You really do have to make yourself an informed consumer. And yes, the FDA is at least partially at fault for this with their, as usual, lax rules for labelling. There is no rule that states that companies have to tell you if they are adding sugar, high fructose corn syrup or other sweeteners or indeed if they are processing the original honey in any way, which can include heat, filtering (which removes all the good pollen), etc. None of this has to be shown on the label, which is why when you see “Unfiltered” on the label you know it has to mean something good! Honey is one of the few pure foods left and you can still get it, but you really have to be careful where and from whom you buy it. Local farmers markets, co-ops and health food stores are your best bet. Over 75% of jars of honey tested from supermarkets, drug stores and the little packets you get in fast food joints tested as having absolutely zero pollen left in them. Now this poses two big problems: 1) Without the pollen most of the benefits of honey are gone (more on the benefits later) 2) Without the pollen there is no way of tracking where the “honey” came from and it is believed that almost all honey that is imported into the US (and all it says on it is “imported”) comes from China. Chinese “honey” has a bad record of “being tainted with chloramphenicol, heavy-metal toxins and a witch’s brew of agro-chemicals, including some illegal animal antibiotics, which are fatal to a
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Honey
small percentage of the population.” (Huffington Post). Now, fortunately, there has been a rise nationally of local bee keepers and farmers markets, so I am sure you can find one or the other near you. Be wary of honey that is too crystal clear looking, there should be some cloudy or opaqueness to it, otherwise you are looking at heavily processed “honey”. The benefits of REAL honey are wonderful, as is the taste. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, it’s almost a must, unless you are content to be on medication for that whole season every year. If you think of it like a natural vaccination, local honey works just the same way. You substitute the sugar in your tea for local honey, so a small amount on a daily basis – it’s just like the vaccination works – it’s introducing your body to the pollen that aggravates it so much in pollen season, but a little at a time, thus giving your body the chance to build up its immunity against it. It is NOT a quick fix. You cannot wait till pollen season, eat a jar of local honey and expect to be fine by morning. That’s not how it works. You need to start well before pollen season and introduce your body to the pollen little by little. Believe me, it works. But you have to stick to (a) pure local honey and (b) a little a day every day! Honey is also one of the best natural
remedies for coughs. It has been shown in numerous studies to be just as effective as over the counter cough medicines containing diphenhydramine and dextromethorphan. Personally, I never use anything else. It is a great wound and ulcer healer; particularly Manuka Honey, which is honey specifically made by bees that feed on the Tea Tree plant in New Zealand (again watch out for fakes). Great anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are what makes honey good for this purpose – simply apply to the wound directly and reapply every 24-48 hours. Honey is also a great energy food making it perfect for athletes. Raw honey contains natural sugars (80 percent), water (18 percent), and minerals, vitamins, pollen and protein (2 percent). It provides an easily absorbed supply of energy in the form of liver glycogen, making it ideal for energetic morning starts and as a pre- and post-exercise energy source. As with any other sugar alternative, it can be a great aid for diabetic blood sugar control. The average American consumes around 150lb of sugar a year, plus around another 62lb of high-fructose corn syrup. At least half of that is hidden in the food you eat – shocking isn’t it? You can take control somewhat by avid label reading and substituting sugar for things like honey, but we all need to push for the FDA regulations on food labelling to be much clearer for the consumer. Tracy Bhalla, Independent Consultant with NYR Organics, website: us.nyrorganic.com/shop/ tracybhalla email: nyrbhalla@gmail.com You can also visit Tracy’s blog at Tracybhalla.com, Continuing my obsession with all things organic, I have been working with NYR for two years now, using their skincare products myself for over 25 years! Your skin is the body’s largest organ, it deserves to be well looked after. I am here to answer any questions you may have.
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Travel Experiences with Jeff Barganier
Alabama’s Grand Canyon A Spiritual Experience
My thoughts are interrupted by unfamiliar sensations. Serenity caresses my body. Angelic hands are catching me, guiding my course downward. They feel rather like waves rolling against my back and head and beneath my legs. The sense of plummeting ebbs rapidly to a feather-like descent, as if gravity has exonerated me from its grip. I wrote these words in my journal many years ago. They inspired a yet unpublished short story about a man who discovers the power of prayer after falling from a high precipice along Alabama’s Little River Canyon. I have long known of this great divide that slowed the Union Army’s advance toward Atlanta. But I had never been there. Only a few hours from the River Region, this geological wonder is located in Alabama’s wild and scenic northeast. So, I struck out for Fort Payne to experience firsthand what my main character may have seen…and felt.
tortuously along and, at times, perilously close to the edge, detouring westward when necessary to negotiate deep tributaries flowing into Little River. A sporty convertible would be perfect for this road. But don’t text. At Mushroom Rock, I park and snap a photograph before driving on to Hawks Glide and Canyon View where another sign explains that
The sign at the first canyon overlook ominously reads: Be aware of the danger around cliffs and moving water. The canyon is unforgiving if you have an accident. I ponder this warning—just as my character must have as he hiked along the canyon’s rim and gazed back upon the 45foot drop of Little River Falls. The farther you go, the steeper it gets. The 11-mile Canyon Rim Drive snakes
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Little River Canyon and its tributaries combine to form one of the deepest
and most rugged canyon systems east of the Mississippi River. The Canyon Rim here is about 1,180 feet above sea level. The river bottom is about 850 feet above sea level. Then another warning: Sheer cliffs underpin almost all the rims. In the story, my character, exhausted from hiking but mesmerized by the majesty of the canyon and beauty all around, steps out on a ledge of the canyon—at one of its highest points— and makes the mistake of looking up to watch an eagle’s flight. At Wolf Creek Overlook, I climb over the safety rails, step close to the edge and study the clouds. A strong gust of wind, a dizzy spell, a dreary second delayed, and I could become my Writer’s character, experiencing the fury of gravity, thinking frantic thoughts, plunging toward my destiny. I carefully step away from the rim, steady myself against the rails; and then ease out of my story and reenter the temperance of reality. A gentle rain begins to fall. I drive to the next overlook, Crow Point, step from the car and survey the canyon.
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I dare not miss a thing. From there, the drive takes a hard-westward right, traverses two miles of Lookout Mountain, and does a U-turn over Bear Creek. Two more miles and I’m back close to the rim at Eberhart Point. A walkway leads to a grand overlook at Eberhart; and then farther to a lower overlook leading to the Eberhart hiking trail and down the lush escarpment to the river. As I descend the walk, the canyon seems to exert a magnetic force, drawing me in faster than I wish to go. I struggle not to break into a trot. I reach the first overlook and attempt a little rock hopping. On my first hop, my foot slips against the stone surface and I barely recover my balance. I’m thankful that I’m not out on that ledge. Eberhart intrigues me as the perfect spot to hang a hammock and doze off over the sound of rushing water hundreds of feet below. I’d like to camp but the Park Service no longer allows camping in Little River Canyon. But near the Eberhart parking area is an excellent picnic ground with tables, grills, trash cans and toilet facilities. It would be the perfect place for a family
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outing or romantic date. Later, as I drive toward the mouth of the river, thinking there’s not much left to see, I crest a hill and glance into the forest. The ground is completely covered with green moss. No underbrush. No small trees or grass. Just an Irish-green-moss-covered ground as far as I can see. The canyon is also home to certain endangered plant life, like the carnivorous green pitcher plant that captures and eats insects. Beware: the way down is not for weak stomachs. The road is a rollercoaster in places. I look into my rear-view mirror and see a black wall of asphalt with a vertical yellow stripe as if the road behind me is going straight up. But soon I ascend and bend back along the rim where sunlight drenches the woods. I pull over and relish the scene. I listen to the songs of birds and the soothing rush of whitewater. It’s all too wonderful to pass through quickly. Leaving the canyon, I glimpse what looks like the ocean off to my right through the trees—Weiss Lake! I argue
with my GPS about the best route home. I win; and chart a course for Cedar Bluff via a causeway across the lake and south toward Jacksonville. The lake is stunning in the late afternoon sun. I stop and snap a picture of the expanse of water between me and the mountains, and marvel at God’s amazing creation, and reminisce about the events of a glorious day. I must do this again with friends. In Jacksonville, I stop at the Rocket Drive Inn Barbeque and savor the best sandwich ever. It’s my way of topping off what can only be described as a spiritual canyon high. You must go get high, too!
Jeff S. Barganier is a freelance writer and business manager of Cindy Barganier Interiors LLC. He travels far and wide upon the slightest excuse for something interesting to write about. Contact Jeff at Jeffbarganier@knology.net. Follow him on Instagram: #jeffbarganier.
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By Greg Budell
The Mayor of BOOMTOWN
ONE FLU INTO A CUCKOO HEAD
Well, the streak is over.
As Boomers, we were taught there was a direct correlation between the outside temperature and the precise type jacket required to drive off disease. On a bitter Chicago day, my Mom would observe my outdoor weather clothing selection, deem it inadequate and proclaim a timeline between the moment I walked out the door and death, all while preparing a pot roast.
I did something in February I hadn’t done for almost 10 years; I took a sick day. Half of one, actually. It seems like every year the Center for Disease Control is predicting some Doomsday Flu, urging people to get shots and take precautions. In drug stores, where signs usually blare bargains on snacks or reduced prices on holiday decorations, big posters scream “Get Your Flu Shot Here!”. Then, the Cold and Flu Seasons comes and goes and it seems no different than any other year. The Predicted Epidemic is usually given a name; Swine Flu. Bird Flu. Kung Flu. It’s simply a marketing effort to make getting the flu more fashionable. “I have the Bird Flu!”, says one patient in line at the drug store. The next person says “I have the Asian! Bird flu? That’s SO last year! Hmph!”. This year (remember, I work in the news business) I don’t recall any warnings of an upcoming flu epidemic. Then, in January, we found our River Region selves battling below zero wind
chills and driving over inches of packed snow. Shortly thereafter, people began getting sick in droves. Therefore, I’m calling the 2018 outbreak the Rich Thomas Flu. I shouldn’t do that to Rich. He cares about people so much that when someone complains they didn’t get one drop out of a 40% rain chance, he sends them sympathy cards. But someone has to take the blame for this! Ironically, within our radio family, Rich was one of the first to get the RTF. He soldiered through the forecasts from home for several days.
I thought about her in midFebruary, when the Rich Thomas flu struck me down. “Struck down” is a little over-the-top. I started feeling fatigued, but being a man requires me to over-dramatize things a bit. Like most, I prefer going to the doctor when I’m feeling perfectly fine, so I launched a house-wide search for the thermometer I KNOW WE HAD, DAMMIT! I went through boxes, drawers and cabinets seeking the one item that could confirm a temperature. Finally, I recalled tucking it into my underwear drawer where it wouldn’t break. Sure enough, after plowing through the boxers, briefs and a plastic freezer bag stuffed with socks seeking partners, I found the case. I pulled it
Greg Budell's column is proudly sponsored by McDonald & Hagen Wealth Management
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open and guess what? The $%#@ing thermometer was not inside! I was too sick to drive to the store and buy a new one. My Mom came to mind. Boomer Moms had digital thermo-sensitive lips. They didn’t need anything from McKesson and Robbins! With one quick lip-swipe over the forehead, they knew precisely how hot your fever was and how seriously ill you were. Boomer Moms also knew when you were faking just to get a day off from school. Mom never called me a liar. On those days when I thought I’d be laying in bed watching game shows, she’d come to my room and vacuum. We had one of those dachsund-shaped canister vacuums. It sounded like a small jet engine on a leash. Mom would barge in with that monster to make sure I’d think twice before trying another fake sick day. Since the Sunday Night Thermometer Chase was a bust, I opted to try a docin-the-box after our Monday morning radio show. Patience is at a premium
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when you’re symptomatic, so when I opened the door to one at East Chase, and it resembled a crowded bus terminal packed with surly people, I walked out. I stopped at my regular doctor’s office next. They said they’d see me the next day at 9- but I still wanted to find out something that day. The Urgent Care place- my last hope on the way home was wide open and I was quickly admitted. What do you know? My fever was a RAGING 99.5! I was given several prescriptions, filled ‘em and took the afternoon off. Unfortunately one of the meds was Prednisone, a steroid which can seriously impact one’s disposition. I decided to spend my off day afternoon in Mayberry, diddling my lower lip while watching Andy Griffith and friends. Around the second epidose, the (steroid) Prednisone kicked in. I felt ugly inside, and soon the benign adventures of Andy and Barney unleashed a level of ugly I didn’t know existed!
“This show is ridiculous!”, I proclaimed! After a few Prednisone fueled episodes, I concluded that if I were Andy, I’d have murdered Barney halfway through the first season. Helen Crump was frigid! Every time Opie said “Paw” I wanted to smack him. “Paw Paw Paw Paw Paw”! Enough! By the time I fell asleep in my ‘roid rage’, I’d concluded that Aunt Bea was the 60 year old virgin, and could be a real beyotch in certain situations. Otis the Drunk would go on to become the Governor of North Carolina. Imbecile Goober’s body would turn up years later on Forensic Files. Mayberry was hell. So is the Rich Thomas flu. Take the meds, drink lots of fluids and stay away from TV Land. Greg Budell lives in Montgomery with his wife, Roz, and dogs Hershey and Briscoe. He’s been in radio since 1970, and is marking 12 years in the River Region in 2017. He hosts the Newstalk 93.1FM Morning Show with Rich Thomas, Jay Scott & Emily Hayes, 6-9AM Monday-Friday. He returns weekday afternoons from 3-6PM for Happy Hour with sidekick Joey Clark. Greg can be reached at gregbudell@aol.com
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March 2018
{12 Things} for active boomers and beyond
BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA
Journey to the South Pacific McWane Science Center 200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203e Center Through April, 15th, check for times
Narrated by Cate Blanchett, Journey to the South Pacific will take moviegoers on a breathtaking IMAX® adventure to the lush tropical islands of remote West Papua, where life flourishes above and below the sea. Join Jawi, a young island boy, as he takes us on a journey of discovery to this magical place where we encounter whale sharks, sea turtles, manta rays, and other iconic creatures of the sea. Home to more than 2,000 species of sea life, this exotic locale features the most diverse marine ecosystem on earth. An uplifting story of hope and celebration, Journey to the South Pacific highlights the importance of living in balance with the ocean planet we all call home. For more info visit www.mcwane.org
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
The Miracle Worker ASF March 3-18; April 27, May 6, 2018, various times “Interesting, absorbing and moving.” – The New York Post. This classic is based on the true story of Anne Sullivan and her student, blind and mute Helen Keller, who grew up in Tuscumbia, Alabama. Trapped in her own world, Helen is unable to communicate. Anne realizes there is a mind and spirit waiting to be rescued from the dark silence, and her success with Helen finally comes with the utterance of a single, glorious word: “water.” Recommended ages 9+. For more information, call ASF 334.271.5353 or visit www.asf.net/project/the-miracle-worker/
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
Four-Hand Piano Concert: Dr. Cynthia MacCrae & Lesye Ames Montgomery School of Music 8307 Crossland Loop, Mont, AL Monday, March 5th, 7pm - 8:30pm Enjoy a four-hand piano concert at the Montgomery School of Music. Dr. Cynthia MacCrae and Leslye Ames will be performing. Program includes…Scenes from Childhood, Opus 15 Robert Schumann (1810-1856) / (arr. Kirschner), Hungarian Dances Johannes Brahms (1833-1897), and Fantasie in F minor, Op. 103, D 940 (1828) Franz Schubert (1797-1828). Free admission but tickets are required.
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Seating very limited!! Call 334.518.9335 for more information or visit www.montgomeryschoolofmusic.com
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
Bear Country ASF March 9-25, various times The Southern Writers’ Project worldpremiere production of Bear Country returns to the ASF stage for a limited run to commemorate Alabama 200’s 2018 theme, “Honoring Our People.” Meet the legendary Paul “Bear” Bryant as he reminisces about the career that turned him into an icon and dispenses his particular brand of life coaching, which made him a champion to his players on and off the field. Recommended ages 11+. March 9-25, various times. For more info call 334.271.5353 or visit www.asf.net
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA Grandparents Event
ZOO Weekend Montgomery Zoo and Mann Museum Saturday, March 10 and Sunday, March 11, 9-6 pm Join the Montgomery Zoo for Zoo Weekend on March 10 & 11, 2018. Enjoy a festive environment with live entertainment, games, rides, concessions and animals from around the world. There will be many activities and fantastic food, so come have fun together at an affordable price. It is also an excellent opportunity to take advantage of discounted memberships. $15 for adults, $11 for children ages 3-12 years old, FREE for toddlers 2 years old and younger and Montgomery Zoo members. Special discounted admission for the Mann Museum: $3 all ages. Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Pkwy, Montgomery, AL 36110For more info visit www.montgomeryzoo.com or call 334.240.4900
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA SLE Rodeo Garrett Coliseum in Montgomery, AL
March 15-17, 8-8pm This rodeo will have more cowboys and cowgirls who competed in the National Finals Rodeo than any other rodeo within 200 miles! The 2018 SLE Rodeo will be held March 15-17 at Garrett Coliseum. The rodeo The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Digital & Interactive
f re e su bsc r i pt i on s at w w w.rive r re gio n b o o m.co m coming to town means more than just buckin’ broncos, barrel racing and burly bulls. Whether it’s the parade downtown, the Stick Horse Rodeo or the Western Festival, there’s something for everybody to enjoy. Tickets are $16 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster. For more info call 334.265.1867 or visit www.slerodeo.com
unknown dinosaur fossils! Kids under 2 are free with a paid adult admission. Tickets available online or at the door. Tickets are $14.99 to $15.99. Call 334.481.5000 for more information. For more info visit www.discoverthedinosaurs.com/city/montgomery/
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
Max Capital City Classic, Alabama vs Auburn Riverwalk Stadium Tuesday, March 27, 6:30 pm
Montgomery Chamber Music Organization Presents: Jerusalem Quartet @ MMFA Thursday, March 15, 7:30 - 9:30 pm The Montgomery Chamber Music Organization presents the Jerusalem Quartet to the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts on Thursday, March 15, 2018. The concert begins at 7:30pm. The Jerusalem Quartet is a regular and beloved guest on the world's great concert stages. The ensemble has been especially well-received in North America, where it has performed in cities such as New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Cleveland and Washington. There will be a “Meet the Artists” Wine Reception following concert. For tickets and more information, call 334.277-3505. For more info visit www.montgomerychambermusic.org
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA Grandparents Event
Disney Junior Dance Party On Tour MPAC Friday, March 23rd, 6-8pm Are you ready to DANCE?!? Disney Junior Dance Party On Tour is an ALL NEW interactive live concert experience. Sing along to Disney Junior’s greatest hits with your favorite characters: Mickey and the Roadster Racers, Sofia The First, Puppy Dog Pals, Elena of Avalor, Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, The Lion Guard and more! Kids of all ages and their families are invited to get up and dance, play games and join the biggest dance party around! Tickets range between $35 and $52. Call 334.481.5100 for more information or visit www.mpaconline.org/events/
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA Grandparents Event
Discover The Dinosaurs Montgomery Convention Center 201 Tallapoosa St, Montgomery, AL 36104 Saturday, March 24, 9am - 7pm It’s family expedition time! At Discover the Dinosaurs: Time Trek, you’ll be transported through the special Time Lab where you can observe enormous, prehistoric dinosaurs. This experience is all about hands-on family fun! Families can compete in the Cretaceous Challenge Zone, visit the Time Trek Theater to meet baby dinosaurs, test their dino-knowledge in our trivia contests, and much, much more. Even see a Dino skeleton come to life! PLUS at the Dragon Edition events, we’ve incorporated famous dragons and lore from three very distinct cultures – dragon legends are thought to have started with the discovery of The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
The rivalry between The University of Alabama and Auburn University continues! The Montgomery Biscuits, along with the City of Montgomery, have announced that the two schools will play the eighth annual MAX Capital City Classic on Tuesday, March 27, 2016 at 6:30 pm at Riverwalk Stadium. Gates will open at 5:30 pm. For tickets and more info visit maxcapitalcityclassic.com
EUFAULA, ALABAMA
53rd Annual Eufaula Pilgrimage Downtown Eufaula Friday-Sunday, April 6-8, all day Beautiful historic homes, built in the days when "cotton was king," will be open to visitors during this nostalgic return to the Old South. Grand antebellum and Victorian mansions built by 19thcentury planters and merchants still house family heirlooms, the precious symbols of a bygone era. Most of the homes are private residences, open only during the annual Pilgrimage. As you stroll from Greek Revival cottages to Italianate showplaces, your path will be lined with colorful azaleas and dogwoods. Beautifully landscaped gardens and manicured parkways will entice you through the Historic District. Southern belles in hoops and bustles will grace the area and greet you warmly as you pass. Something for everyone can be found in Eufaula during the spring tour of homes. An open-air art exhibit, gardens, afternoon teas, candlelight tours, musical entertainment and more complement the Pilgrimage experience. For more info visit www.eufaulapilgrimage.com
ENTERPRISE, ALABAMA
Piney Woods Arts Festival (A Juried Arts & Crafts Show) Enterprise State Community College Saturday and Saturday, April 7 & 8th The 44th annual Piney Woods Arts Festival takes place April 7 (9 am – 5 pm) & April 8 (12 – 4 pm), on the running track of Enterprise State Community College. One of the oldest juried arts and crafts shows in the area, Piney Woods features original art and crafts by approximately 100 artists, a children’s fun center, food and entertainment. Special events include a Civil War Living Display and the Weevil City Cruisers Car and Truck Show (Saturday only across campus from the arts festival). Admission is free. For information, call 334.406.2787 or visit www.CoffeeCountyArtsAlliance.com
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Tinseltown Talks By Nick Thomas
Marlyn Mason, more than an ‘Elvis Girl’
Beginning in 1960 and for some three up again for “The Bag,” a very personal “Besetment” (see www.barbedwirefilms. decades thereafter, Marlyn Mason account of Mason’s mother’s decision com). “It’s very creepy, and I’m very appeared in to end her creepy in it!” she said, laughing. “The almost one life and which director, Brad Douglas, wrote the role for hundred featured me and I had a wonderful, fun 20 days television Hollywood filming.” series, veteran earning the actors Richard While her early Hollywood days remain unofficial title Erdman and fond but distant memories now, they are of TV “Guest Peggy Stewart ones she is often asked to share at film Star Queen.” playing conventions, especially in connection While her film Mason’s with Elvis. “I just got invited to Quebec roles were far parents. for the annual Elvis show in October.” fewer, fans of Elvis Presley “It’s a rather Marlyn Mason and Elvis Presley in a scene from Mason was one of the numerous The Trouble with Girls - MGM movies grim topic, but actresses (‘Elvis Girls’) to appear in remember the actress as Elvis’s vivacious the actors bring a natural humor to the Presley’s 31 feature films, but was not co-star in his next-to-last film, 1969’s piece,” said Mason. “I wanted to make a fan of Elvis or his music when they “The Trouble with Girls.” However, a non-political, non-religious comment began filming “The Trouble with Girls.” Marlyn left Hollywood – literally – in the on the mere In fact, she was early 1990s. fact that some prepared for elderly people Elvis to flaunt “When my Hollywood career came to simply want to his superstar a halt I moved to Oregon,” said Mason go to sleep and status but “he from her home in Medford. But she not wake up. My turned out to didn’t retire from acting completely. mom was one be the best guy Taking advantage of the lush, natural of those people. in the world to settings and charming towns for She was 92 and work with.” location shooting as well as regional deserved the right talent, Mason has written, starred in, or to die the way she When not produced several dramatic Oregon-based wanted.” looking back Marlyn Mason in The Right Regrets with Maxwell Caulfield and sharing short films over the past decade. - provided by producer and writer Marlyn Mason In 2013, Mason Hollywood “I wrote a screenplay about a lonely headed back to California briefly to film memories, Marlyn continues to look woman who’s an aging, nude artist’s her romantic drama “The Right Regrets,” forward to more filmmaking. “It’s not model (‘Model Rules,’ 2008),” she said. directed by veteran TV director Ralph about the length of the film or even the “The only way she can get attention Senensky. “He was turning 90 and came role. I just love to keep working!” and fulfill her fantasies is to pose nude out of a 26-year retirement to direct this for artists. love story I did Her current ‘bucket list’ also contains It’s kind of with Maxwell three additional life goals. “I want to be a sad piece Caulfield. It’s feeling good – not sick – when I die and but there is beautifully I want to be the next Betty White, still humor in it.” photographed working at 95.” and looks like A local a mini-feature. Finally, she adds jokingly, “and I want to filmmaker, Ralph has the be the sole surviving Elvis leading lady Ray Robison, special touch – there are about 18 of them left who I directed the that translates have to kill off! But seriously, I’ll be 78 film which magnificently this year, I’ve had a good life, and have won best onto the nothing to cry about.” actress or best screen.” Marlyn Mason, L, and Abby Wathen in Besetment - Barbed Wire Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at screenplay Films. Provided by director Brad Douglas Montgomery, Ala, and has written features, awards for Last summer, columns, and interviews for over 650 Mason at several film festivals around Mason also returned to feature newspapers and magazines. the country. In 2010, the duo teamed films with the release of the thriller
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to learn more visit my website
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
jimwatson.myzija.com
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