HealthNEWS
for Boomers and Beyond
April 2013
Help for a Hernia: Surgical Repair If you’ve been diagnosed with a hernia, there’s usually just one treatment with the potential for a permanent cure: surgery. However, not all hernias need to be treated. “Some hernias do not pose any immediate threat if they’re not corrected,” offered Jackson Clinic general surgeon, Brian Gary, MD. “However, if the blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off, that’s an emergency and will need surgery.” But since a hernia will not get better by itself and tends to get bigger with time—and possibly more painful—surgery is an option for everyone to consider.
Surgical options
A hernia is a bulge of soft tissue that pushes through a weakness or congenital defect in the muscle wall that normally contains it. According to the American Medical Association, most hernias occur in the abdominal wall. There are two main types of hernia surgery: Open repair. This is the traditional hernia operation. It involves an incision made over the site of the hernia. Tissue that is bulging out is pushed back into a more normal position. Surgeons repair or strengthen any weakness in the muscle wall by sewing surrounding muscle over the problem area. Sometimes, rather than sewing muscle together, surgeons will insert a piece of mesh to cover the defect in the muscle wall. The American College of Surgeons (ACS) reports that this can lead to a quick recovery and a low likelihood that the hernia will return. Laparoscopic repair. In this operation, surgeons pass a laparoscope (a telescope attached to a camera) through a small incision in the skin. While watching the surgery on a video monitor,
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surgeons repair the hernia using tools passed through separate, tiny incisions. “Laparoscopic surgery offers most patients a quicker return to regular activity and a less painful recovery,” said Dr. Gary. However, the two types of surgery have similar results in the long term.
Risks from surgery
Both surgeries carry potential risks, such as bleeding and infections. And, although the risk is small, repaired hernias can sometimes recur. Your surgeon can help you determine which operation may be best for you. The size and severity of your hernia, as well as the strength of your abdominal tissue, your age and your overall health, may influence what type of surgery your doctor recommends and its outcome.
Recovery
Generally, hernia surgery doesn’t require a hospital stay—you can go home a few hours after the operation. Initially, you may experience some discomfort, and climbing stairs will likely be difficult. Your doctor will probably place some restrictions on your activities as you recover. Following these instructions reduces the risk of the hernia recurring. For example, for a few days after surgery you may need to avoid driving or bathing. You may also need to avoid or limit activities such as heavy lifting, jogging and strenuous exercise. For more information about surgical hernia repair, call Jackson Clinic General Surgery at 334-293-6858. Some causes of a hernia: poison, heavy lifting, sharp blows to the abdomen or hard coughing fits.
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BOOM!, The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Contents
April 2013
“Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.”
Volume 3 Issue 9
Carl Bard
Thought Relationships Taste Inspiration
Humor Advice Health Community
“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” C.S. Lewis
3 Jackson Hospital’s Health News 6 Publisher’s Letter 8 Spring Makeup 2013 8 Spring Apps 12 BOOM! Cover Profile page 20
15 Alabama Laubach Literacy Council
Features
15 Walk of Life
17 How to Live on Social Security
18 It’s A Blue Ridge Day!
20 The Seasoned Performers
Departments 10 This and That
28 {12} Things
30 Greg Budell
With a credit card!
Have you heard...?
Virginia’s Roanoke Valley.
Solutions for bored Boomers
16 Fitness over Fifty
Birmingham’s oldest thespians.
The best KLP!
22 Train YOUR Brain to listen! 24 Dating Coach 25 Boomer Humor 27 Art & Soul
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COVER PROFILE page12
page 15
page 16
page 10 BOOM! The River Regions 50+ Lifestage Magazine is published monthly by River Region Publications, 6398 Eastwood Glen Pl., Montgomery, AL 36117. The phone number for voice and fax is 334.523.9510. Copyright 2013 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.
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publisher’s letter
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.
“Everyone over the age of 69 should immediately face a firing squad.” Really? That’s what a recent Yale research team found when they analyzed site descriptions of publicly accessible Facebook groups that focused on older persons. The study found that the elderly were vilified on three-quarters of the Facebook sites examined, and noted that “In some cases, executing the aged was proposed.” Really?
Publisher/Editor Jim Watson, 334.523.9510 jim@riverregionboom.com
Associate Editor
Not every one of these haters said death to age 69+ folks, but more than a third said we should be banned from driving and shopping! Facebook is supposed to connect all of us, all generations, but it may be causing challenges to the ever present “generation gap” and when it comes to Facebook policies on hate speech, they include many of the usual groups you can’t hate on, but not the aged.
Kelly Watson kelly@riverregionboom.com
Contributing Writers Sandi Aplin Dr. Bettie Borton Greg Budell Lisa Copeland Kim Komando Jim Watson, Publisher
Lynn Mathison Peggy Perdue Leigh Anne Richardson Wina Sturgeon
Cover Photography Lola Fine Art Photography twololas@lolafineartphotography.com
www.lolafineartphotography.com 334.551.2700
Advertising Jim Watson, 334.523.9510 jim@riverregionboom.com
Monette Mottenon, 334.523.9510 monette@riverregionboom.com
Design & Layout Lake House Graphics
Distribution Network Delivery
Printing Publications Press, Montgomery, AL 334.244.0436
Speaking of sixtysomethings, we’re proud to profile one of Montgomery’s entrepreneurs this month, and her name is Lynn Mathison. Lynn is the owner of Mathison Interiors in Eastchase and yes, she is the wife of John Ed Mathison. She explains just how important he is as a husband and partner to her busy lifestyle in this month’s Q & A beginning on page 12. Do you like to travel? We have a feature article on the Blue Ridge Mountains from the Roanoke Valley. It’s the kind of place that has many special experiences for the Boomers who like to explore and discover new things. Check it out on page 18.
We also share a story of actors who are a little past their prime so created a group called The Seasoned Performers. They perform for the underserved who may not get a chance to experience professional drama. They are an interesting group of oldsters. Speaking of old, do you think you could live on Social Security? Most don’t, but one writer devised a simple plan to help you achieve that worthwhile goal and it involves a credit card! We continue to offer many more good reads for your enjoyment. Leigh Anne Richards shares some reasons to exercise to help motivate you to take action, better sleep and sex, who knew? Greg Budell is about to become a Zillionaire selling his KLP, order today! And Dr. Bettie Borton continues to help us hear better by training our brains to listen differently. There’s more but you’ll have to explore a little on your own. Thanks for spending some time inside BOOM!, The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine. Please share BOOM! with a friend, even a younger one, they’ll be with us before long. Have a Great Spring!
Jim
jim@riverregionboom.com 334.324.3472 cell/text 334.523.9510 office
Please Recycle This Magazine, Share with a Friend!
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The Boomer generation didn’t trust anyone over 30, so I guess we had some attitude back in the 60’s, but a firing squad? That hurts, dude!
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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Opposites > Attract
Spring Makeup 2013
By Peggy Perdue
Warm and cool tones come together to create a modern look for spring 2013. Shades of coral, like Salmon, steal the spotlight as a wearable bright on eyes, cheeks and lips. This warming shade in eye shadow mixes well with purple eye shadow against green eyes, navy eye shadow against brown eyes, and taupe eye shadow with blue eyes. Give black and brown liners a break, especially with brown eyes. Line your eyes with navy shadow or pencil and see what happens. Cheeks brighten with coral blush. If you prefer a pink blush, then warm up the areas on the face where the sun naturally hits, like the bridge of the nose and forehead, with bronzer. This season’s lip colors offer a variety of effects, from barely there to bold. Mix and match to your heart’s content – top a warm coral shade with a cool pink gloss. Forget the rule book! A professional makeup artist will help you achieve your best spring update by considering your hair, eye and skin coloring, then show you how to blend warm and cool. Peggy Perdue, Studio owner Merle Norman, Shoppes at EastChase
Spring Apps for the Fun of it!
By Kim Komando
BirdsEye/BirdLog ($20, iOS; $10, Android) With the weather getting nicer every day, you probably want to take a hike, ride a bike or visit a park. But what about bird-watching? This app is a powerful and complete database with information on thousands of types of birds. Not only is it a handy reference guide, but it also acts as a social network as well. You can see if any of your friends or other birdwatchers found that elusive bird you’ve been looking for. Audubon Trees ($10 iOS; $5 Android) There are thousands of different tree species in North America. This app makes identifying and learning more about trees fun for everyone! State Park Locator ($3 iOS, Android) Now that the weather is getting nicer, you might consider hiking or camping with your friends or family. But where should you go? Use this app to find the closest parks and nature preserves. Its database includes more than 3,000 state parks across the U.S. Campground HD ($2; iOS, Android)Campgrounds HD can help you find a great outdoorsy destination. It knows more than 15,000 campsites, campgrounds and RV parks around the world. Just type in what specifics you’re looking for and away you go! Grill-It ($1; iOS, Android) Get ready for great eats! You’ll never be limited to just hamburgers and hot dogs again. This app contains dozens of easy but detailed recipes for cooking seafood, pork, beef and vegetables. It’s automatically updated with new recipes as soon as they are available, so you will never run out of ideas. App suggestions from Kim Komando, www.komando.com
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i
This & tHAT
Seabreeze Jazz Festival What do you get when you combine the best in smooth jazz together with devoted fans, beautiful white sand beaches, great shopping and dining, and good old “Gulf Coast Charm”? You get the most exciting, most talked about contemporary jazz festival in the USA, The Seabreeze Jazz Festival in Panama City Beach. Named “One of the Top 10 Jazz Festivals in the USA” by JazzIZ Magazine and “Top 100 Event in North America” by the North American Tour Bus Association -- the Seabreeze Jazz Festival is where friends meet to celebrate what is the “Smooth Jazz Lifestyle”! For more info visit www.seabreezejazzfestival.com
Alabama Travel Apps for Bama Boomers! Walk in the footsteps of the Civil Rights Movement by exploring the people, places and events that brought Alabama into the international spotlight and changed the course of history. Discover civil rights landmarks across the state, plan your visit to Birmingham, Montgomery, Selma, Tuskegee and other cities that were pivotal in the Civil Rights Movement, explore an interactive timeline that takes you through the struggle for equality. Download the free Alabama Civil Rights Trail app today to get started. It’s time to take a road trip! Alabama has countless destinations to discover, from sugar-white beaches and world-class golf to civil rights landmarks and award-winning restaurants. This easy, interactive guide makes it simple to plan an unforgettable road trip with your friends or family. Choose from dozens of road trips to any of Alabama’s signature cities and destinations, live it like a local, with tips on the most authentic Alabama experiences in each community, browse potential road trips by destination, such as cities or beaches, find places to stay, eat and explore in each community, search for road trips catered to specific interests, such as dining, shopping, history, arts, outdoor activities and many more. Download the free Alabama Road Trips app today to get started. Check them out in iTunes or Google Play.
Celebrate Spring with Watercolors Adult Painting Workshop In this informative series of classes, participants will concentrate on still-life material: fruit, vegetables, flowers, and other objects, working from still-life set-ups and from photographs, using vivid color schemes and up-close compositions to enhance the imagery. Students will be able to complete two small 15” x 20” watercolor paintings during the six classes. All levels of experience are welcome. A supply list will be provided upon registration. Instructor: Russell Everett, 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Thursdays: April 4, 11, 18, 25; May 2, 16. Cost: $120 members/$165 non-members for the series of six classes. www.mmfa.org Russell Everett, Apples - Red- Green, 2002, watercolor.
2013 Pike Road Arts Showcase The Town of Pike Road’s second annual Arts Showcase will feature the work of Pike Road and River Region artists of all ages. Artists will be displaying their works and offer them for sale to the public. The showcase will be limited to 25 artists. Sunday, April 14th from 1 to 5 pm. Pike Road Town Hall, 9575 Vaughn Road. For more info call Patty Payne, 334.495.4108
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
BOOMERS, share your stuff with BOOM! We Love to Bring BOOMERS Together, send info and pics to jim@riverregionboom.com
Celebrate Spring and a Bounty of Color! Each Spring, Callaway Gardens’ landscape explodes with one of the world’s largest displays of native and cultivated azaleas – more than 20,000 of them – plus fresh blooms of dogwoods, crabapples, daffodils, pansies, tulips and more. These sweeping floral vistas form the stunning backdrop to invigorating recreational pursuits, fascinating educational experiences and special events designed to celebrate the grandeur of the season. A series of themed weekends, known collectively as Celebrate Spring!, feature special activities and events for families and friends to share against the backdrop of these dazzling surroundings. Admission is $25/adult; $12.50/child; children 5 and younger are admitted for free. Callaway Gardens Annual Passholders and active and retired military, with valid identification and up to five guests, receive free access during Celebrate Spring! Special packages available. For additional information, visit www.callawaygardens.com or call 1-800-CALLAWAY (225-5292).
What Is Cystic Fibrosis? Cystic fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide). A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that: clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections; and obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food. The Great Strides Walk for the River Region will be held Saturday, April 27th at Hampstead. This walk supports the fight against Cystic Fibrosis and the families affected by the disease. Please, grab a few friends and spend a little time serving those in need. Check-in is at 9 am with starting time at 10 am. For more information or to register log on to www.cff.org/GreatStrides and locate the River Region walk. “One of the finest and funniest new plays you’re likely to see.” —NY Times
The Cloverdale Playhouse Presents Directed by Greg Thornton. A whimsical and poignant look at class, comedy and the true nature of love by one of America’s most exciting new playwrights. The Playhouse continues its mission to produce challenging and thought-provoking work with this extraordinary, wildly funny finalist for the 2005 Pulitzer Prize in Drama. For ticket info visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org or call 334.262.1530. Can You Give Us A Hand ? Seeking volunteers to help build THE CLEAN HOUSE. Over the next two weeks, we can use some help in putting THE CLEAN HOUSE onstage. Join us in building a bit of the magic at the Playhouse. For further information: Call 334.262.1530.
Hospice of Montgomery’s Monte Carlo 2013 Hospice of Montgomery’s 19th annual fundraiser, Monte Carlo 2013, takes place Thursday evening, April 18th at Wynlakes Golf and Country Club from 6:30 to 10 pm. This event helps fund Hospice of Montgomery services to provide care to patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families throughout the River Region. The evening’s highlight, a Silent Auction of original art by local artists, gift certificates, items from local businesses, garden and landscape, elegant home furnishings and antiques, exquisite jewelry, sports items/memorabilia, trips, and fine wines. Wynlakes executive chef will present a delectable buffet of hors d’oeuvres and desserts for the palate. Auction items may be viewed at www. hospiceofmontgomery.org closer to the event date. Tickets are $50 per person and may be purchased on our secure website by credit card or by mail: Hospice of Montgomery, 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery, AL 36117. The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Doubt Theatre AUM will be presenting John Patrick Shanley’s 2005 Pulitzer Prize winning play, Doubt, April 11 – 21, 2013. Show times are 7:30 PM Thursday thru Saturday, the Sunday matinee begins at 2:00 PM. Ticket prices are $10.00 General Admission, $5.00 Senior Citizen, Military and Students. For more information please call the theatre, during regular business hours, 334.244.3632. r i ve r reg i o n b o o m . co m
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BOOM! COVER PROFILE
Lynn Mathison, She’s Got the Look! This month’s BOOM! profile is Lynn Mathison. Lynn is the owner of Mathison Interiors, located in The Shoppes at Eastchase. Lynn is a sixtysomething and is living her dream! She is married to John Ed Mathison, who is the well known former Senior Minister at Frazer UMC. We asked Lynn to be this month’s BOOM! Cover Profile because she’s part of the 50+ community who represents a vitality and enthusiasm for positive aging. She shares some of her life’s journey in this month’s Q & A. Hope you enjoy getting to know her as much as we have. 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? Lynn: I was born in Selma, AL. In 1965 I graduated from A.G. Parrish High School. I went to Auburn for 2 years and Alabama for 2 years. I have a B.S. Degree in Business Education from the University of Alabama. I REALLY can be an Auburn and Alabama fan at the same time. I moved to Montgomery in 1986. My 2 daughters Lauren Hixon and Clay Aaron both graduated from Trinity Presbyterian School. I married John Ed in 1996. Together we have 4 children and 10 grandchildren. BOOM!: As the owner of Mathison Interiors in Eastchase could you share some of the challenges of opening a specialty retail store? What has been the
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and work that plan. Another part of the design side involves working with a client and their floor plans from the planning stages to the move in date. These design opportunities require some of us to be out of the store a lot. Some of our projects are in communities surrounding Montgomery. Each day is unique and requires creative planning and balancing the utilization of the staff.
Photography by Lola Portrait Studio
greatest blessing? Any lessons you can share with other aspiring entrepreneurs, especially, women? Lynn: Challenges – Retail is demanding. In our previous location our main focus was design. We intentionally wanted to expand our retail focus. Our staff works as a team. Each person has unique gifts and talents. No one is on commission. Now in EastChase our business is two-fold: design and retail. It is a CHALLENGE to balance enough staff working at the store and enough staff working in a client’s home or office on any given day. Part of the design side of the business involves going into people’s homes, taking what they have, rearranging, getting a plan to update,
Blessing – My greatest blessing is to have the opportunity to offer design services for home or office, have enough inventory immediately available for delivery, and be located in a high traffic retail area.
BOOM!: As a professional designer in the Southeast for more than 30 years, could you share your design philosophy with our readers? What are the distinct qualities of your services? Lynn: My philosophy is “when you buy nice, you don’t buy twice.” Many times in my life I have bought furniture just to “get by” or “make do” and in a few years, I wanted to change because I wasn’t really pleased with the purchase. I learned the hard way that if you do it right the first time you don’t have to do it over. I believe in making a plan according to a budget and being intentional about each decision in furnishing a room or an entire home. At Mathison Interiors
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we like for your experience with us to be exceptional. We want to create an environment where the client feels appreciated, understood and excited about decorating.
allowing me to focus my ministry through my design/retail business. Advice – What have you always wanted to do and never done it? Go do it! Pursue your passion and dream. Don’t let anyone tell you, you can’t. As John Ed says, “If you think you can or can’t you’re right.”
BOOM!: As a busy entrepreneur, do you have time to be involved in community, civic or other activities? Lynn: Because of the demands of the business and the opportunities to be involved with John Ed’s activities and his ministry, I have little time left. John Ed and I are both involved in our great community.
Distinct Qualities - Our BOOM!: If you weren’t designing the focus is on interiors of beautiful homes, what kind the client’s of work would you be doing? Any dream needs and their BOOM!: What are jobs? living style. you most passionate No two clients about? Lynn: I am living my dream. This is it. Lynn and John Ed, the “Quality Control” Supervisor are the same, What makes it even more special is I but the focus Lynn: I am most realize that it is a privilege and gift to remains consistent...to bring order and passionate about have my younger beauty. All you have to do is enjoy your allowing God to use daughter, Clay, surroundings when we are finished. me to bring life and work with me Every detail is taken care of. When we light into one’s home every day. have accomplished this, there is peace or office and offer and harmony. That is our goal. No job encouragement. BOOM!: What is it is too large or too small. We are able to about living in the help you select a single item of furniture, BOOM!: How do you Montgomery/River or install your entire home or office like to relax and wind Region area that down to the soap in the dispensers and down from a hard day’s you like? Clay, Lynn, Lauren and Jo Frith (Lynn’s mom) stocking the pantry. We are known work? for completing any project in a short Lynn: Montgomery is called “The Capital window of time. Lynn: My home is my sanctuary, I like of Dreams.” I am fortunate and thankful to recharge there, reflect on the day to be living my dream in this beautiful, BOOM!: Many Boomers are experiencing and seek direction for the next day. My progressive “Capital of Dreams.” a renewed sense of purpose, new husband is my best friend. We both find goals, new careers, especially if they’ve peace in our home. It’s easy to relax in a BOOM!: As you’ve aged, how have your experienced the empty nest syndrome peaceful surrounding. I do think best in ambitions changed? of their kids moving on. How would you my comfy sweats, hair pulled back in my describe this sense of renewal in your hairclips with my fuzzy socks on. Lynn: They really have not…I always life? Any advice wanted to be happily married, enjoy for the rest BOOM!: Favorite my family (kids and grandkids), be in of us seeking vacation spot? ministry, and decorate. My life is full. renewal? Any travel dreams planned for the BOOM!: Give us three words that Lynn: Decorating future? describe you? has always been a passion for me. Lynn: I have been Lynn: Energetic-Loyal-Compassionate The Bible talks fortunate to have about, “lines traveled a lot, but BOOM!: Do you have any hobbies or The Mathison Interiors “Team” falling around us for now, I travel other activities that grab your attention? in pleasant places.” I’ve been privileged to EastChase. I love it! Every day is like a Lynn: Decorating is my hobby. I just love to have seasons in my life to focus on vacation to me. I enjoy what I do and the it! As I often say, “I can’t not do it.” Now raising my children, my marriage to John people I work with. that I have time to devote to my “hobby” Ed, ministry at Frazer, our grandchildren. or passion, I give it my all. Now that John Ed is retired, God is continued on page 14
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BOOM!: Many people may know you are married to John Ed Mathison, the former Senior Minister at Frazer. What’s his contribution to your success? Does he ever have any good design ideas for you?
for presentations, taking pictures, emailing clients, etc. I personally send a daily email to our staff giving the schedule and plan for the day. We are in constant contact through texting, messaging, and the old faithful “phone call” to keep us all going in the same direction.
Lynn: John Ed is my Lynn and Clay at work biggest supporter. He often visits the store in the afternoon for his coffee and Wheat Thins. We have his books on sale at the store, and many have been blessed by them. He jokingly says he is in charge of quality control. He is a great partner in business and ministry. He is the voice on our commercials and, oh yes, we REALLY have tennis racquets. BOOM!: Technology is rooted in almost every aspect of our lives. How do you or your team use technology to better serve your customers? Lynn: We use every technology available to get information to and from our clients as well as to each other. We are on the web and Facebook. Our website is www.mathisoninteriors.com. We use our iPads to show inventory
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BOOM!: How do you balance your schedule between work and grand parenting? What do your grandkids call you? Lynn: My grandkids call me “Nan Nan.” They are all involved in school activities and sports. As they have gotten older and have more demands on their time, we plan our visits. It is a privilege to include my mom, Jo Frith, in our family activities.
If you have any questions for Lynn, you can reach her at 334.277.0310. If you need some decorating done check out her website at www.mathisoninteriors.com We want to thank Lynn and her “fun loving” team for participating in this month’s BOOM! Cover Profile. A special thanks to Maria and Raquel at Lola Fine Art Photography for their outstanding cover shot! If you have questions, comments or suggestions, please send them to jim@riverregionboom.com
Inspire
Your Granddaughters The Shoppes at EastChase will host Fashion
Camps for the third year in a row, offering more dates and times for girls ages 6-12. The one-day camps will be offered in June and July from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and separated into two age groups: ages 6-8 and 9-12. The cost is $75 per child.
Dates for each age group are below: • June 10-13 for ages 6 – 8 years • June 17-20 for a ages 9 – 12 years • July 8-11 for ages 6-8 years • July 15-18 for ages 9-12 years
The day includes a $25 gift card to The Shoppes at EastChase, a special gift and an official graduation certificate. The Little fashionistas will study camp subjects such as Accessorizing 101, Model Behavior, Lights, Camera, Fashionista and Runway Ready, with the breakout sessions hosted by Claire’s, Earth Fare Organic Grocer, GAP Kids, Just for Girls, Versona Accessories, Anthony Vince Nail Salon, The Studio at EastChase, Cupcakes by Tish and Dillard’s. The day also includes lunch, a $25 gift card to The Shoppes at EastChase, Williams-Sonoma and more. Space is limited. For more information, visit The Shoppes at EastChase website at www.theshoppesateastchase.com. Online registration will be available April 1, 2013. Parents can also stop by Guest Services, located next to Ware Jewelers, or call the main office at 334-279-6046 to register.
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On the day of the event, you’ll quickly understand why we say that the Walk of Life isn’t just a race…it’s a party! You’ll be surrounded by thousands of like-minded participants, all of them ready to run or walk to raise awareness and support for the fight against breast cancer. The Walk of Life will begin at 8:30 AM on Saturday, April 20 with the starting line on Tallapoosa Street near the Renaissance Hotel. Once you cross the finish line on Commerce Street, it’s time to put on your wristband and make your way through the tunnel to Montgomery’s Riverfront Park. Inside the park, you’ll enjoy food, drinks, the Mighty Kids Dash, vendors, artists, music and live entertainment. Register your team today at www. joytolife.org Alabama Laubach Literacy Council (CALL) has been serving our area for more than 25 years as a non-profit organization. Many people have never heard of the organization and its mission. It’s focus is on teaching adults reading and writing skills that they need. It is a one-on-one program (one-student-one tutor) that is totally dependent upon volunteers and donations. From time to time a class is scheduled to train the tutors. Future tutors do not have to have a teaching background. If you can read this, you only need to have the desire to benefit someone in our community and thus benefit the community. Twenty percent of the adults in our state are functually illiterate. Life for them can be a series of frustrations and a “closed door” to an opportunity to lead a more productive life. CALL was created to meet these literary needs and to provide FREE basic reading and writing classes. CALL is the only free literary service in the community to serve adults with literary skills below the 7th grade level. These learned skills are utilized in such applications as applying for jobs in the workforce, school applications, getting a driver’s license, understanding contracts and even the reading of prescription labels may be difficult. Please help someone read, contact CALL at 334.264.1239 or visit www.laubachliteracyal.org
Kickstarter for The Capri!
The Capri, which is the only theatre in the capital city that screens independent, foreign and classic films, needs to raise $80,000 for a digital system or it will be forced to close. The Kickstarter program will run through April 30 and offer various incentives in exchange for donations, including movie passes, a limited edition t-shirt and a piece of the 35 mm film. If the overall goal of $80,000 is not reached, however, donators are not charged and the theatre loses all of the funding pledged. Donate here www.Kickstarter.com, search Capri.
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Fitness over Fifty
By Leigh Anne Richards
Need Motivation to Exercise? Here Are a Few Reasons In our last fitness discussion, we discussed the components of fitness and the guidelines set down by the American College of Sports Leigh Anne Richards Medicine for ages 50 and over. This month I want to give us motivation to exercise and improve our life- starting now! The merits of exercise from preventing chronic disease to elevating our confidence and self esteem are hard to ignore. All the benefits are yours regardless of age, sex, or physical prowess. Need more proof? Check out ways to improve your entire life. 1. Exercise improves your mood. Need to get your frustrations out from a bad day and blow off some steam? Put those gym clothes on and get a workout in, or go for a 30 minute walk to calm you down. Exercise stimulates various brain chemicals which leaves your feeling happier and calmer than before you worked out. Exercise reduces those feelings of depressions and anxiety without medication. When you look and feel better, it automatically boosts your self image and your confidence. 2. Exercise combats chronic disease. As we age we begin to worry more about heart disease, cancers, osteoporosis, etc. Regular exercise can help reduce our chances of developing some of these chronic diseases. Exercise reduces the low density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol, and it increases the high – density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol. This action makes our blood flow more smoothly by lowering the plaque buildup in the arteries. 3. Exercise helps manage your weight. Don’t be a couch potato- MOVE! Trade in sofa time for walking or any other
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physical activity. This is basic math— calories in = calories out to keep the waist line in check. When you exercise, you burn calories. The more intensely you exercise the more calories you burn. However, you don’t have to set aside major blocks of time for working out. You can do it in 10 minute bouts. Burn extra calories by taking the stairs instead of elevator; park the car a distance from wherever you are going, so you have to take more steps. If you are watching TV, do jumping jacks during commercials. There are all kinds of ways to get exercise. It does not have to be just scheduled “gym” time. The more activity you do throughout the day helps burn calories too. 4. Exercise strengthens your heart and lungs. How do you feel when you climb stairs, carry in your groceries or do yard work? Are you huffing and puffing? Regular exercise can help you breathe easier. Exercise delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues. Regular exercise helps the entire cardio respiratory system by helping the circulation of the blood through the heart and vessels work more efficiently. Can’t really see that happening, huh? You will feel it though because when your heart and lungs work more efficiently, you have more energy and stamina to do the things you enjoy. 5. Exercise promotes better sleep. Is it hard to fall asleep or even stay asleep during the night? Exercise is sometime the key to a better night’s sleep because it can help you fall asleep faster and deepen the sleep. Just make
sure that your afternoon workouts are spaced about 5-6 hours before bedtime because the natural dip in body temperature after exercise can help you fall asleep. Otherwise, it might rejuvenate you and then you will find it hard to fall asleep. 6. Exercise can put the spark back in your sex life. Are you too tired for sex? Do you feel badly about the way your body looks? What about loss of desire? Exercise to the rescue. Exercise physically improves the circulation that leads to more satisfying sex. Men who exercise are less likely to have problems with erectile dysfunction as they get older. Also, remember exercise boosts your self-esteem and gives you more confidence, making for a positive effect on your sex life. 7. Exercise can be FUN. Exercise is not synonymous with drudgery and boredom. You must do something you like in order to stick with it. Find hiking trails, ride bikes as a family, take dance lessons, etc. The list is endless. Get an accountability partner and use the exercise time as a social outlet as well. Keeping the FUN in fitness keeps you motivated. Convinced yet? Get out there and move and start reaping the benefits of physical activity today! Leigh Anne Richards is General Manager of MetroFitness in Montgomery and has a MEd. in Health and Physical Education with a concentration in adult fitness. She is also a Certified Physical Fitness Specialist and Certified Group Exercise Leader. Leigh Anne wants to hear from you, contact her at LAMetrofit@aol.com for any questions.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
How to Live on Social Security It’s called an “entitlement,” but many seniors find out that they’re not entitled to very much when they start receiving Social Security. Years of economic woes have let the air out of investments, whether stocks or property. Some folks have had to chip away at their savings and other funds. The average Social Security check is $1,200 per month, not counting the $100 or more monthly payment for Medicare, or the 20-percent co-pay when Medicare is used. Those who sign up for Social Security early in order to receive that monthly check often wind up in shock, and in debt. Many don’t even know how to live on such a modest sum. They overspend without realizing it, then frantically try extreme solutions, like re-financing their home or borrowing from predatory lenders. But that only digs the hole deeper, forcing many seniors to severely lower their standard of living. Others, who may feel insecure on Social Security, start living like paupers in order to save every possible penny in case it’s needed “later.” The solution to the problem is to learn how to live on Social Security. All you really need to do is to compartmentalize your finances. It means starting with a pen and paper to put your finances into two categories: required money and choice money. Begin by adding up your monthly The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
card limited to the amount of your choice money. Don’t get a debit card, for several reasons. For one, debit cards give access to your bank accounts, often including both checking and savings. You unwittingly can tap into your own accounts, thus going over your choice money without even knowing it. And two, debit cards are subject to more dangerous types of fraud. Scammers can use them to clean out your accounts, By Wina Sturgeon and though banks will almost always replace money lost to fraud, it may take a stressful amount of income. Include pensions, benefits and time and trouble. Fraudulent bank credit Federal or personal payments; every card charges will be canceled quickly. If single cent that you can definitely count you cancel a card because it’s been lost on each month. or stolen, you’re only on the hook for a small sum. Next, list your “required” money. That includes mortgage or rent, car payments, the average monthly cost for utilities, medications, insurance, in other words, every required sum that you MUST pay or face disaster. Add up the monthly total of this required money. Now subtract that sum from the total of the money you have coming in each month. The amount that’s left is your “choice” money. You can choose to purchase groceries with it or eat out at a restaurant. You can choose to buy a tankful of gas, or pay for transportation or stay home. You can put aside a monthly installment to allow the eventual purchase of a big item like a new TV or a vacation trip. Or, you can put some of your “choice” money into a bank account or invest it. You have total choice over how, or even whether, to spend it. Finally, here is the big secret to learning to live on Social Security: a credit card. Go to your bank and ask for a credit
But here’s why you should put all your choice money on a credit card: once the card reaches the limit, it will be declined. You’ll know immediately that you’ve spent all your choice money. Your financial choices are at an end for that month, and you’ll have to make an additional, very aware effort, if you feel like going beyond your choice money and into debt. Here’s the follow-up: When your check comes in each month, the first thing to do is pay off that credit card. If the card still has money on it, that means you didn’t spend all your choice money during that month. So you now have extra cash to play with. Best of all, using this system, you’ll live on your Social Security without ever going into debt. (c) 2013, Adventure Sports Weekly Distributed by MCT Information Services
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It’s a Blue Ridge Day! This ain’t Gatlinburg! When you’re in the 50+ age group you need a different pace when you travel. Roanoke Valley will fit you well. In many ways, Roanoke Valley compares very favorably to another popular Boomer destination, Charleston, SC. But Roanoke Valley offers many more new experiences to fit your Boomer Lifestyle. The restaurant scene is dynamic and innovative, with over a hundred locally owned restaurants in the area. Shopping the downtown boutiques and markets throughout Roanoke Valley will be something even a man would enjoy! The outdoor activities will take your breath away and the tranquility of the Blue Ridge Mountains, along with some of Virginia’s best wines will probably lure you back a few more times. Plan a new experience to Roanoke Valley and you’ll share the memory for years to come.
from
Virginia’s Roanoke Valley
Photos provided by Roanoke Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau. www.visitvablueridge.com
Visitors will remember an area because of a delicious meal at a romantic restaurant, a unique dish at a quirky hole in the wall or a special delight made by a local. Visitors can enjoy all of these things and more among a rich variety of eateries as robust as the region’s wonderful flavors, making the Roanoke Valley the capital of cuisine in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
visitors can spread their culinary wings by enjoying local ingredients with a modern French twist at Blue Apron Restaurant & Red Rooster Bar. The gourmet restaurants in the Roanoke Valley make this an emerging destination for exceptional local cuisine.
Vineyards & Wineries in the Blue Ridge Mountains More than 200 years ago, Thomas Jefferson knew that the fertile soil and mild weather of the Blue Ridge If you are Mountains were seeking ideal for growing to sample Blue Apron Restaurant Bed & Breakfasts grapes. Centuries some of the & Cottages in the Blue Ridge later, family run region’s rich ingredients, Mountains vineyards are a number of farm to table Experience genuine southern thriving in the restaurants feature locally Blue Ridge Vineyard hospitality at a one-of-a-kind Bed & Roanoke Valley, grown and raised products on Breakfast Inn where your hosts will producing award winning wines. their menus. Alexander’s Restaurant treat you like a member of their family. Experience quality wines made with in downtown Roanoke creates B&B’s across the Roanoke Valley vary old world techniques on The Wine Trail sophisticated, gourmet dishes with from historic old homes in charming of Botetourt County. One fresh ingredients from neighborhoods to secluded hilltop of the most unique wineries their 7Hills Farm, lodges overlooking the Blue Ridge is Blue Ridge Vineyard located in nearby Mountains. Take advantage of some because they offer “Wine... Floyd County. In their of their activities including fishing and paired with a View” and cozy Grandin Village even llama trekking. Saturday night concerts with spot, Local Roots Blinky Moon, a local blue prepares unique and The Capital of Cuisine in grass band that will move delectable delights, Chateau Morrisette Virginia’s Blue Ridge your feet to tapping and featuring many Food is one of the most exciting maybe even dancing before the night ingredients from their own city garden, aspects about a vacation destination. is through. Also on the trail is Chateau as well as other local farms. In Salem,
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Morrisette which offers beautiful vistas, award-winning wines, elegant dining and first-class hospitality. Open year round for tours, tastings, and a full on Virginia wine experience. The Roanoke Valley wineries offer tours, tasting and special events all year long.
HIKING TRAILS your breath away. A fascinating world IN THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS of discovery is waiting underground Ready for a walk in the woods? The at Dixie Caverns and Luray Caverns. Roanoke Valley in Virginia’s Blue Ridge You’ll stand in awe of Natural Bridge, has more than 600 miles of trails, a famous landmark once owned including the by Thomas Jefferson Appalachian and surveyed by George Trail, offering Washington. Animal lovers everything from will especially enjoy the easy strolls to interesting Mill Mountain challenging Zoo, the world’s only zoo climbs. You can on a mountaintop. Mill experience the Mountain Zoo is among incredible views a distinguished group of Appalachian Trail, McAfee Knob from the top of approximately 250 other McAfee Knob or Sharp Top Mountain zoos that are accredited by the at the Peaks of Otter. Or, you can climb Association of Zoos and Aquariums. to the top of Roanoke on the Mill The zoo is home to over 170 animals Mountain Star Trail, which leads to the from almost 90 species, 21 of which Roanoke Star & Overlook, providing are vulnerable species. As part of you the chance to look out over the Species the Roanoke Valley. Grab your Survival Plan pack and a camera. Between for a number the trails, the wildlife, and the of vulnerable stunning views, there’s no telling and what will take your breath away. endangered species, Mill Museums & Galleries in Mountain Zoo Roanoke Valley Loves Dogs the Blue Ridge Mountains has had 43 Art, science and history come alive at live animal births in the past 15 years. exciting museums around the Roanoke www.visitvablueridge.com Valley. Some museums feature handson, interactive displays for kids of all www.blueridgevineyard.com ages. Others feature rotating gallery www.blueapronredrooster.com exhibits available for a limited time. www.thedogs.com Art lovers should allow plenty of time to explore the spectacular new www.blackdogsalvage.com Taubman Museum www.chocolatepaperroanoke.com of Art in downtown www.mmzoo.org Roanoke. History lovers will enjoy the History The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the Museum of Western best places to enjoy the stunning fall Virginia followed foliage of the Roanoke Valley. by visits to history Photo by Bruce Henderson
Photo by Bruce Henderson
Photo by Cameron Davidson
Shopping in the Blue Ridge Mountains Looking for something out of the ordinary? The downtowns and farmer’s markets of the Roanoke Valley are filled with delicious foods and fantastic crafts from right here in the valley. Visit oneof-a-kind shops and galleries for the perfect Chocolatepaper gift. Spend a girls’ day out exploring for antiques or the latest fashions. The sights and smells on the Market are a treasure from a bygone era — that’s right around the corner. Chocolatepaper is just one of Roanoke’s tasty shops. Sensuous chocolates from around the world, distinctive greeting cards for all occasions, and gifts to excite the mind and tickle the funny bone! Not far from downtown Roanoke is the very unique shopping experience of Black Dog Salvage, a 40,000 square foot warehouse filled with Architectural Antiques and Custom Designs featuring mantles, stained glass, garden statuary, wrought iron, doors, fine museums in Salem, antiques, Fincastle and other local artisans, Black Dog Salvage towns across the valley. home & garden Natural Sites & Zoos in the accessories, furniture and first quality Blue Ridge Mountains rugs. The founders even have their The scenic Blue Ridge Mountain vistas own telvision show on the DIY network are not the only thing that will take Sally the Salvage Dog will be waiting! Photo by Cameron Davidson
Mabry Mill in Meadows of Dan, VA. The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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The Seasoned Performers The Seasoned Performers is a nonprofit company that celebrates the contributions of older adults by producing both original and wellknown material, providing performance opportunities for seniors, and bringing live theatre to special and often underserved audiences. Their presentations may be populated with seasoned actors, but the performances appeal to people of ALL AGES! Currently in its 29th season of touring, The Seasoned Performers is a unique senior adult theatre troupe located in Birmingham, Alabama. The company is a nonprofit organization, enriching the lives of audiences and performers with a theatre program especially adapted to the needs of seniors. This all-volunteer troupe is recognized as an important part of the arts culture and received the 2007 award for “Outstanding Contribution to the Theatre Community” from the Birmingham Area Theatre Alliance. The Seasoned Performers were honored for providing opportunities for actors to continue working in theatre as senior citizens, as well as entertainment for the local community. Their mission is multifaceted: to give an outlet to vibrant seniors (those who have acted professionally or in the community, as well as those who are just beginning); to support older adults who want to continue contributing to the community; to project a positive view of aging; to reach urban, rural, suburban, and underserved populations with live theatre. Since 1984, The Seasoned Performers has become one of the largest and longest running senior theatres in the country. This distinctive theatre has gained national recognition with its accomplishments and is featured on a list of Creativity and Aging “Best Practices” on the National Endowment for the Arts’ website.
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The Seasoned Readers
There are three branches to the Seasoned Performers, each with its own performance style: The Seasoned Actors: Since the company’s inception, The Seasoned Actors have been on the road, taking 45minute original one-act plays to a variety of locations serving 5,000 or more people every year. This branch performs at 60+ sites annually, and are driven to each place in our own van by our technical associate. The troupe unloads the scenery and props, dresses in costume, performs, reloads the van, and travels back to our parking lot. Program objectives are to provide older adults with opportunities for participating in theatre, to bring live theatrical performance to audiences of all ages, and to serve as a training base for older adults who wish to increase their knowledge of theatre arts. Celebrating a new stage in life and giving voice to the significant contributions of older citizens, this troupe is usually composed of 10 actors who rehearse and perform the same play -- in two casts of five members each. The Seasoned Readers: The Seasoned Readers take part in weekly workshops and, in teams of four individuals, tour performances chosen from over twenty-
five different shows in their ever-growing inventory. This group performs 70 times each year, at sites all over Jefferson County for over 2,500 people. The teams drive themselves to the readings, and often carpool to the site. The Readers present a variety of shows, including a number of seasonal offerings, like A Gift for Anna, for the holiday season and Mother’s Day. Voices of Liberty uses the words of famous Americans to celebrate patriotic holidays, Haunting Tales and Spooky Stories are perfect for the fall, and Seasons of Man, about the coming of age of men, proves popular for Father’s Day. The repertoire also includes a variety of humorous readings, as well as pieces for younger audiences. For older audiences, the Seasoned Readers provide a model for graceful and productive aging, while younger audiences delight in the opportunity to experience a fun group of seniors like their grandparents! The Readers are available for public readings and private events. The Salon Readers: The idea for salon readers came from the fact that the many talented and more experienced senior actors in our community are not able to make the time commitment involved in being a Seasoned Reader or an actor in our touring productions. They began in April 2007 by presenting an evening performance of a concert reading of Blithe Spirit . The following spring we presented a concert reading of Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple, this time for two shows and the performances sold out. They also have a lively Vaudeville troupe who perform around town. The Salon Readers are available for both public and private events. For more information call 205.978.5095 or visit www.seasonedperformers.org
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Healthy Hearing
By Dr. Bettie Borton Au.D.
Optimizing Your Hearing Aid Experience… Train YOUR Brain to listen! We don’t really listen with our ears; we listen with our brain. Hearing devices can help a person detect sounds more efficiently, but they don’t necessarily provide good listening skills. Restoring normal volume levels with amplification does not assure that speech understanding is Dr. Bettie Borton Au. D. effectively restored. While good hearing is a physical function that requires a normal auditory system, speech understanding is a complex process involving normal volume of sound, normal function of the ear and auditory pathways, and a complex “meshing” of the two systems by our brain. Effective listening and auditory based communications are skills that require each system to be working correctly; a hearing loss disrupts this perfectly designed mechanism. Good auditory discrimination skills are one of the components required for effective communication. As technically advanced as modern hearing aids might be, hearing devices alone cannot produce listening skills sufficient for our complex communication system. There are a number of reasons for this. For example, to be a good listener, one must integrate a number of skills including attending, understanding, and remembering. Unfortunately, many of these cognitive skills deteriorate as we age. This may show up as a worsening of short-term memory, or increased difficulty understanding rapidly presented speech. Despite the fact that those with sensorineural hearing loss characteristically have a difficult time in noisy environments, advancements in hearing technology have certainly improved the quality of sound for wearers in challenging listening environments. We now have evidence that loss of hearing literally produces physical changes in auditory pathways to the brain. Data suggests that when parts of the auditory pathways and cortex are not receiving sufficient stimulation, they actually undergo morphological changes (and these changes are not good ones). Thus, the old adage of
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“use it or lose it” actually applies to our auditory mechanism and listening habits because the hearing impaired person’s brain may not be receiving the kind of stimulation it needs to maintain its proper function without the use of hearing devices and appropriate aural rehabilitation following fitting.
In addition, confidence that what you thought you heard was in reality what was spoken, is vital. Often, when people lose confidence in their ability to communicate in noisy social situations, they simply “drop out” and avoid such environments. While this may ease the emotional ramifications of hearing loss by saving effort and embarrassment in the short term, it ultimately costs them important personal and social contact. And of course, social isolation is known to be a huge risk factor for developing dementia/Alzheimer’s Disease. Today’s high tech hearing devices coupled with aural rehabilitation strategies as directed by your audiologist, can provide not only audibility, but may decrease the likelihood of degradation of cognitive skills associated with aging. The need for additional assistance beyond that provided by devices alone (in the form of aural rehabilitation) is underscored by the fact that individuals presenting similar hearing patterns frequently report a wide range in satisfaction and benefit from amplification.
The good news is you can optimize your hearing aid hearing experience using a number of methods, strategies and techniques as documented on the Better Hearing Institute website: • Having realistic expectations about your hearing aids • Employing effective communication strategies with your social network • Utilizing proven strategies and advanced hearing technologies for hearing better in noisy situations • Joining a self-help group to share methods and techniques for optimizing your hearing aid experience • Using other assistive technology in addition to your hearing aids • Using closed-captioned TV or movies • Training your brain to listen (auditory retraining therapy)
In addition, there are exercises you can try immediately. Here are three examples: • Use closed- captioned TV, or record programs using a DVR or TIVO. Watch the show live. Then replay it with closed captioning or by slowing it down. • Listen to, while reading, audio books. • Buy two copies of the newspaper. Have your spouse or colleague read the newspaper aloud while you are listening only, and then go ahead and read it yourself. Try this in quiet at first, and then proceed to noisier listening environments. Your audiologist can assist you in supplementing hearing aids with additional rehabilitation methods as mentioned above, and this will offer you the kinds of skills and communication strategies that can make all the difference in your performance with hearing devices. Comprehensive auditory rehabilitation uses many approaches to compensate for hearing loss. While hearing aids are an essential element of aural rehabilitation, other vital components are education to help you better understand the relationship between cognition and auditory function, learning and incorporating interactive communication strategies, and enhancing auditory performance with computer based programs designed to enhance the ability to interpret auditory experiences through a variety of exercises/activities. When you or someone you love purchases hearing aids, talk to your audiologist about establishing a comprehensive communication enhancement plan designed specifically for you. The mere introduction of amplification will not produce optimal re-adaptation of the auditory system or result in the most advantageous auditory skills unless accompanied by training. Content adapted from the Better Hearing Institute.
Dr. Bettie B. Borton is a licensed audiologist in Alabama, was the first board certified audiologist in Montgomery, served as National Chair of the American Boar of Audiology, and was recently elected as President Elect of the American Academy of Audiology. Co-authored by Brittany Spahr, Doctoral Extern, LSUHSC. Visit Doctors Hearing Clinic at www. doctorshearingclinic.com or call 334-396-1635 for more information.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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THE DATING COACH
By Lisa Copeland
He Wants to Marry Me on the First Date Question: I’ve been online and the couple of men I’ve met (mind you I’ve had no problem striking up conversations; I look younger than my age) immediately want to be the only one, and want a commitment right then and there. I try to explain I want to date to meet people. They get mad. What’s the deal here? Answer: An amazing thing has happened as we’ve aged. Many women over 50 often just want to play in the dating arena. But men want to settle down and have a great relationship, sharing their life with one woman. Crazy isn’t it? Yes, the players are still out there but most men over 50 I’ve spoken with truly desire a good committed relationship with ONE woman. They want nothing more than to please a woman and make her happy. The problem arises when you and he aren’t on the same dating page. He feels rejected for putting himself in a vulnerable position of letting you know how he feels. He doesn’t understand why you would be on a dating site if you weren’t looking for love with one person like he is. So he gets mad. But he’s really mad at himself for exposing his vulnerability and for misjudging you and your dating intentions. Most dating sites ask what type of relationship you are looking for, whether it’s a date, a committed relationship or marriage. Be clear in your profile that you are only looking to date, not mate. This should help in attracting men who are looking for the same type of connection you want in your life right now. Question: I’ve been dating quite a few men, but not one has come close to being physically attractive to me. One I decided to have sex with, and even months after being apart from my ex
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I can’t stop comparing the two in my head. My ex was very well built and I liked his way with me from the first time. Will I ever feel the chemistry with anyone else? I can’t stand the thought of being with someone I don’t enjoy being physical with. These other men are all able to care for me and I know they’d be able to do so in ways my husband wouldn’t. But I have no interest if they’re not hot and sexually attractive to me. All this from a 50-year-old woman. Your thoughts? Answer: The type of chemistry you are looking for is actually an exciting drug cocktail your body produces to create an intense rush when you meet someone you’re attracted to. It’s highly addictive, it feels good and it lasts about 90 days before you see a man for who he really is. This type of chemistry cannot be sustained and when the flaws of a man begin showing up, you start questioning what made you get involved with him in the first place. My advice for when you feel this type of intense rush of chemistry? Run the other way as fast as you can, unless you are looking for a lot of sex and nothing else with a man. It’s almost impossible to turn what’s happening there into a true relationship. The best chemistry is one that develops over time and might not start appearing until date three or four. It can build, and it’s the type of chemistry that is sustainable and makes for a great relationship. That’s why it’s important to give men a chance with more than one date. As you get to know a man and bond with him, he can actually become quite handsome to you. Now, if hot and sexy is all you want, by all means go for it. Just know that it’s a chemical reaction that will probably end within three months. Lisa Copeland, “The Dating Coach Who Makes Dating Fun and Easier after 50!” Find out more at http://www.findaqualityman.com (c) 2013, Lisa Copeland, Distributed by MCT Information Services
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Boomer Humor share a laugh today!
A little silver-haired lady calls her neighbour and says, “Please come over here and help me. I have a killer jigsaw puzzle, and I can’t figure out how to get started.” Her neighbour asks, “What is it supposed to be when it’s finished?” The little silver haired lady says, “According to the picture on the box, it’s a rooster.” Her neighbour decides to go over and help with the puzzle. She lets him in and shows him where she has the puzzle spread all over the table. He studies the pieces for a moment, then looks at the box, then turns to her and says, “First of all, no matter what we do, we’re not going to be able to assemble these pieces into anything resembling a rooster.” He takes her hand and says, “Secondly, I want you to relax. Let’s have a nice cup of tea, and then,” he said with a deep sigh............ “Let’s put all the Corn Flakes back in the box.”
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Fe at u re d A r t i st This Month, Lydia Benefield Lydia says, “I consider art as the icing on the cake regarding life. I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to paint. I am mostly selftaught, but have enjoyed the experience of some wonderful workshops through the years. Painting with talented artists is always an exciting way to learn new techniques to try. Several years ago, I attended John (Jake) Wagnon’s art class at the Armory. Jake is a master at drawing with his brush, watching and learning from him was invaluable. He stressed the importance of composition and gave many tips which help to achieve eye pleasing compositions.” When I first saw Lydia’s paintings, I was reminded of a dear artist friend we lost years ago to cancer, Sharon Yavis. She and Sharon have messages in their painting, there is a feeling of friendships and/or families in their subjects.
“My degree from Auburn University was Elementary Education” Lydia continues, “and during my years in the classroom,
Chess and a Cup of Joe
I found many uses for my love of drawing. I taught creative writing and literature enrichment to second graders at Montgomery Academy. The students’ need for illustrations for their stories allowed me to make lots of drawings of animals and people. These second graders were my art critics.”
My favorite of Lydia’s work is her figurative paintings. She Her use of says, “Several brilliant color, years ago, I combined began figurative with loose paintings. My expansive brush early goal was strokes give to make these her subjects a subjects at least marvelous sense human. Ladies of movement, with blonde hair and loads while her titles of jewelry soon progressed to the paintings to ladies on the beach in tell the rest large hats with sunglasses of the story. to shoppers with handbags Lydia’s work and packages. I love to is fun, happy watch ordinary people A Lesson Learned and thought doing every day activities, provoking. The simplicity reminds us of living the simple life. My images a less complicated way of life. are often derived from memories of
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events and of people I have seen in my neighborhood or while traveling. ” Lydia uses acrylic and oil paint. “Most of my earlier paintings were still life.” She says, “I love flowers in warm colors. The flowers were usually very bright reds and yellows. I also find drawing and painting chairs as my subject is a lot of fun. Chairs are so varied in their shapes and styles. Many of my paintings contain a chair, a table and a vase of colorful flowers.” Lydia is married to Jim Benefield, a veterinarian here in Montgomery. She is a mother and proud grandmother. She sells real estate, plays canasta, loves to travel and enjoys painting. She says, “My future plans include attending workshops with artists who have work and styles I admire. Working in acrylic and oil, I usually have four or five paintings in different stages
I’ll wait a Little Longer
of completion underway at all times. My goal is to push myself to try new techniques in the process.”
Visit Gallery One Fine Art 423 Cloverdale Road, Montgomery, AL Gallery Director Sandi Aplin sandiaplin@aol.com 334.269.1114 www.galleryonefineart.com
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
By Sandi Aplin
Art & Soul
Energen Art Competition and Montgomery Art Guild Exhibition On March 24th several Montgomery Art Congratulations to Thornton Clark, should be a truly outstanding display of Guild members, 200+ art patrons and President of the Montgomery Art Guild art, mostly by Montgomery artists. This I enjoyed a lavish and our own year MAG has raised four times reception hosted Julia Wallace as as much money for awards by the Energen their paintings than in any of the 39 previous Corporation in were sold. exhibitions. The awards, Birmingham for the Back in totaling more than $27,000, 14th Annual Energen Montgomery, will be presented to the best Art Competition. there are some artists at the show’s opening Each year Energen very excited reception. The Museum’s Corporation artists counting galleries will open to the public donates the artists’ the days until immediately following the James McManus, Energen and Dirk Walker, Grand entry fees, plus the evening of award ceremony. The show Thornton Clark, with “Sand Prize Winner for “Life on Highland Avenue.” an additional April 5th. will continue until Sunday, June Island, Lake Martin” corporate contribution to a different 2nd. The MAG featured Artist non-profit organization. This year, Camp Thornton Clark, President of the this year is John T. Wagnon.” Smile-A-Mile, Alabama’s Program for Montgomery Art Guild, says, “The Children with Cancer, is the recipient of Montgomery Museum of The exhibition is Energen Art Competition funds and was Fine Art will host the 40th organized by the presented a check for $20,000. Annual Montgomery Art Montgomery Art Guild Guild Exhibition with a and the Montgomery Dirk Walker was the winner of the reception beginning at Museum of Fine Energen Grand Prize Award and $7,500 5:30 pm and the awards Arts. This year it is for his work “Life on Highland Avenue.” presentation beginning at Sponsored by BB&T Walker is a first-time participant in 6:30 pm. More than 400 and Margaret Berry the competition. Kelley Alford was the works were submitted Lowder. winner of the $3,000 landscape category in January seeking to Julia Wallace with her painting “Ran into an old Flame” for her work “Swimmin’ Hole.” Jim be selected for inclusion in this year’s Sandi Aplin, Director of Gallery One Fine Art Denney was the winner of the $3,000 exhibition. Fewer than 100 were A free lance writer living in Montgomery, Alabama wildlife category for his work “Redselected by Janice Kluge, the juror. It www.galleryonefineart.com tailed Hawk.” John Hyche was the winner of the $3,000 nonrepresentational category for his work “Measure Up.” Patty Ringland was the winner of the $3,000 employee choice category for her work “Rainy Night Lights in Five Points South.” This year, four artists received honorable mention awards with a $250 award. They were John Kelly, John Lonergan, Michael Marlowe and Taylor White. Jean Ignatz was this year’s judge. She is an accomplished portrait painter and is co-owner of Riverport Gallery in historic downtown Northport. The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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April 2013
{12 Things} for active boomers and beyond
MONTGOMERY
40th Montgomery Art Guild Museum Exhibition Friday, April 5, 5:30 to 7:30 P.M.
Join us Friday, April 5 from 5:30 to 7:30 P.M. for an opening reception of the 40th Montgomery Art Guild Museum Exhibition. This juried exhibition features about 100 artworks by 80 River Region artists. The juror is UAB professor emeritus, Janice Kluge. More than two-dozen prizes totaling over $25,000 will be awarded at the preview reception. Cash bar and hors d’oeuvres will be available.For more information, visit mmfa. org or call 334.240.4333.
EUFAULA
Eufaula Pilgrimage, 48th Annual 340 N. Eufaula Avenue , Eufaula, AL Friday-Sunday, April 5-7 Alabama’s Oldest Tour of Homes, Eufaula has more than 700 structures listed on the Historical Register and the City of Eufaula opens its doors to share this historical wealth with the rest of the world each spring. Guided tours of homes and sites, Art Show, Antique Show and much more! www.eufaulapilgrimage.com
BIRMINGHAM
Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama Barber Motorsports Park Friday-Sunday, April 5-7 This unique event brings nearly 80,000 fans from around the world to watch drivers of
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the IZOD IndyCar Series compete on the 17 turn, 2.38 mile-road course at Barber. This year, the event will feature some of the most dominant names in open-wheel racing. During the weekend fans can expect to see the GrandAm Road Racing Series featuring the Rolex Series’ Porsche 250 and the Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge. Fans will be able to enjoy “Fan Walks” on pit lane, an interactive Fan Zone with a ferris wheel, autograph sessions and much more. Tickets are available starting at $15 and kids under 12 are admitted free with a ticketed adult. For more info visit www.barbermotorsports.com/indy/
MONTGOMERY
Zoo Weekend The Montgomery Zoo Saturday and Sunday, April 6-7, 9-6pm Mark your calendar today to make plans to join us for this fun-filled, family event at the Zoo. The Zoo and Museum are transformed into a festival-like environment complete with games, enflatable slides and bouncy houses, horse trail rides, giraffe encounter, live animal presentations, zookeeper talks, a variety of food, drinks and snacks, live entertainment and much more. Zoo Weekend is an annual fundraiser for the Zoo and Museum. Funds from this event go directly into the general fund allowing the Zoo to continue to grow and expand. www. montgomeryzoo.com
BRUNDIDGE
“Come Home, It’s Suppertime” We Piddle Around Theater Studio 116, Downtown Brundidge April 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20 “Come Home, It’s Suppertime” is Alabama’s Official Folklife Play. The play is set during the Great Depression and tells the stories of those who experienced the pain and suffering of the times but also found the humor in their situations. “Come Home,” tells both sides of Hard Times with original stories and old-time music. Tickets are $25 and include the preshow, a full country supper served family style and the award-winning, two-act original folklife play. Tickets for the 2013 spring season of “Come Home, It’s Suppertime”at the We Piddle Around Theater in Brundidge are on sale at studio 116 in downtown Brundidge or by calling 334.735.3125. Visit www.piddle.org
MOULTON
Alabama Chicken and Egg Festival Lions Club Fairgrounds, 455 School St. Friday-Sunday, April 12-14 The Alabama Chicken and Egg Festival offers three days of oldfashioned fun, food vendors featuring chicken entrees prepared in a variety of ways and live entertainment by popular regional bands and local favorites on three stages. The sanctioned poultry show brings in fancy fowls from across the Southeastern United States and is a crowd favorite and photographer’s dream! Hundreds of exotic colorful chickens of all sizes and breeds provide the perfect models for novice
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and professional photographers alike! www.AlabamaChickenandEggFestival.com
MONTGOMERY DOWNTOWN Second Saturdays Riverfront Festivals Riverfront Amphitheater Saturday, April 13th, 3-8 pm
The first Second Saturday of the year down on the Montgomery Riverfront starts April 13th with a classic car cruise-in that will begin at 3 pm. Patrons will get to vote on their favorite car, with prizes given away at 6 pm. A band will follow at 6:30. The cruise-in is an example of the “New” Second Saturday events this year, by offering special events in addition to the Second Saturdays, which will continue to have the music, vendors and marketplace on the riverwalk and admission will be free. www.funontheriver. net
FT. DEPOSIT
42nd Annual Calico Fort Arts and Crafts Fair Saturday and Sunday, April 13-14 With hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of attendees, Calico Fort is one of the oldest, largest and most popular arts and crafts fairs in the South. This Outdoor show, on 6 acres, has adjacent parking and plenty of fun for everyone. So come and enjoy our southern hospitality. The proceeds benefit community projects. For more info call 334.227.8589 or visit www.calicofort.com
MONTGOMERY
Lebanese Food Festival St. Bede Cafetorium, Atlanta Hwy Saturday, April 20th, 5-7pm Celebrate this culture’s rich and thriving heritage in the River Region. Authentic Lebanese cuisine—full dinner plates, Kibee sandwiches, ala carte items for takeout, and silent auction. Proceeds from the Festival benefit the
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many community outreach programs of Montgomery Catholic Social Services. For more info and advance tickets, contact Catholic Social Services at 334.288.8890, Ext. 219 or 334.201.2330.
MONTGOMERY DOWNTOWN Alabama Book Festival Kiwanis Park, Old Alabama Town Saturday, April 20th, 10-4pm
Celebrating its eighth year, the 2013 Alabama book Festival will be held Saturday, April 20, from 10 until 4 p.m., in Kiwanis Park at Old Alabama Town, 301 Columbus St., Downtown Montgomery. The grounds open at 9 a.m. A special readers theatre will be held 4 - 4:45 p.m. The theme this year is food, in recognition of the Year of Alabama Food as designated by the Alabama Tourism Department. With food being the theme for this year’s festival, two of the books already confirmed are about food. One is a cookbook featuring the artisan cheese at North Alabama’s renown goat cheese farm, “Tasia’s Table: Cooking with the Artisan Cheesemaker at Belle Che?vre” by Derrick Harriell, and the other is a history of barbecue by Robert Moss, “Barbecue: The History of an American Institution.” The event is free and open to the public. See www.alabamabookfestival.org.
MILLBROOK
Alabama Flora and Fauna Arts Festival Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook Saturday, April 20th, 8 am - 6 pm Browse beautiful nature-inspired art and fine crafts by Alabama artists. Original wildlife and floral paintings, fine prints, gourd art, photography and much more. Find what you can’t buy in the big box store! Quality plants from the Lanark grounds for sale. Plus, Eagle’s Roost Herb Farm, delicious honey from Dancing Bee Aviary, and Donny Tomlin’s grafted Japanese maples. Leave room in your schedule for an amazing line-up of speakers and topics: 9:45-10:30 am: Rhona Watson on Japanese Gardens; 11-12 noon: Mary McCroan on Shade Gardens; 1-3:30 pm: Dr. Dan Jones on Fabulous Ferns. for more info visit www.alabamawildlife.org
UNION SPRINGS
The Hallelujah Girls The Red Door Theatre, Union Springs April 25, 26, 27 28, Seated Dinner Hilarity abounds when the feisty females of Eden Falls, Georgia, decide to shake up their lives. The action in this rollicking Southern comedy takes place in SPADEE-DAH!, the abandoned church-turned-day-spa where this group of friends gathers every Friday afternoon. After the loss of a dear friend, the women realize time is precious, and if they’re going to change their lives and achieve their dreams, they have to get on it now! But Sugar Lee, their high-spirited, determined leader, has her hands full keeping the women motivated. Carlene’s given up on romance, having buried three husbands. Nita’s a nervous wreck from running interference between her problematic son and his probation officer. Mavis’ marriage is so stagnant she’s wondering how she can fake her own death to get out of it! Reservations required. Call 334.738.8687 or visit www.reddoortheatre.org to learn more.
MONTGOMERY
Capital City Master Gardener Annual Plant Sale Saturday, April 27th 8am-3pm For the seventh year in a row, the CCMGA will be offering plants from their gardens for sale. This free event brings local master gardeners together with the public to promote the fundraiser and to answer any questions or concerns you might have about your yard or garden. The sale will take place at Frazer United Methodist Church, 6000 Atlanta Highway, just follow the signs. Free demonstrations as well as heirloom plants, vegetables, herbs, annuals & perennials, trees, shrubs, and garden items will be available. For information contact Karin Carmichael at 334.271.3084 or go to www. capcitymga.org It ’s a Great Time to Be Booming! Please submit any events/pictures to jim@riverregionboom.com r i ve r reg i o n b o o m . co m
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By Greg Budell
MALE CALL
The Kennedy’s and Key Lime Pie? I never heard of key lime pie until I moved to Florida in 1979. In Chicago, we dug apple, pumpkin and rhubarb.
Just starting out in South Florida radio, I was working on the late, great LOVE 94, working for Rick Peters. Rick owns the group I work for now. How about that? We did a promotion back then, where listeners would write a snail-mail invitation to me and my show partner Keith Allen to visit their office. It had to be on company stationery- and if we selected their invite, Keith and I would deliver a key lime pie. Not just any KLP- but Joe’s Stone Crab’s!
Our studios were on 1st street in Miami Beach, when South Beach was a flat out dump. We’d walk a block to Joe’s to pick up the pie and sometimes I’d watch the chef making them. He did KLP from scratch, and revealed a couple “secrets” on making them and I made note. Eventually, and using his tips, I started making my own. Ultimately, tweaking the Joe’s recipe my way, I created a pie formula that everyone seemed to enjoy. So what does this have to do with the Kennedys?
For several years on my afternoon show, I assembled a group called the Conspiracy Team. As we near the 50th anniversary of JFK’s assassination, there is still a stream of new information and claims related to this benchmark event. Recently, it was RFK’s son who said he didn’t believe there was only one shooter and wants additional investigation.
One of my Conspiracy Team players is ironically named Kennedy. Though he describes himself as a “recovering Massachusettsan”, Bill Kennedy is no relation to America’s Royal Family. Like me, Bill has been fascinated by 11-22-63 and is very skeptical of the lone assassin theory. He and the King of Alabama Motorsports, a fellow named Terry Adams, dissect long standing and newer theories about the assassination about once a month. During a commercial break a couple months back, Bill surprised me and Terry by announcing he was opening a new restaurant! An engineer in his day job, Bill
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was fulfilling a lifelong dream, opening a real pizza and sub joint called Capone’s (HWY 14 in Millbrook). Now thriving in its third month, Capone’s features a 30s-era speakeasy entrance requiring a password (“I’m looking for a safe place”) before the secret door opens. The food is awesome. As an ex- northerner, Bill brought his appreciation for properly made, hand-tossed pizza to the area and people are loving it. And on the dessert page, you’ll find Greg’s Key Lime Pie!
That’s right In addition to 3 radio shows daily (I am the Ryan Seacrest of Alabama) and a weekly TV show, I am a part time pie-chef at Capone’s, baking pies including my hypertangy creation…“The Sting”.
The Sting fits the Capone’s motif quite nicely, thank you. Bill advertises the restaurant on my shows and it’s all coming together nicely.
I am pleased to report universally good to enthusiastic reviews for my pies, and Capone’s has been turning out a couple dozen every week- a number that has grown from the first day. Now what? I just read that the average price for a wedding is $28,240. With one unmarried daughter, and factoring the South Florida “everything is more expensive here” factor, it’s probably closer to 40K.
I am not ready for a $40,000 anything. The pie business is fun, and it pays enough to pay a couple bills but can I expand it into a true enterprise? Enter Brandt McDonald, one of the south’s most respected money managers. Brandt is our on-air market expert and has become a good friend. Trust me when I tell you he represents some serious people, including
some of those eight figure professional athletes seen on ESPN.
Brandt loves the pie, too. He wants me to sit down and discuss possibilities with people he knows.
Why not? REAL key lime pie is hard to find outside a restaurant, and most of them sell a lime-colored pie. If what you’re getting at the store bakery or on a plate at a restaurant is a light green, it is not real key lime pie. REAL KLP is a pastel yellow in color, like Joe’s. The chef back in 1979 is the guy who taught me the difference.
The idea of this thing- this idea- springing from a random group of friends I’d have never met had it not been for a famous assassination - one of whom was opening a restaurant and offering an opportunity to at least test the product - is frightening. As the forces of success gather around me, you know what I have done? Nothing. I am paralyzed by fear and indecision. On one hand, I love making the pies and getting good reviews. On the other, the possibility of it becoming big - really big - has me apoplectic.
Bill knows what he’s doing. Terry knows what he’s doing. Brandt knows what he’s doing. I am the King of Jack Squat. I don’t even know how my radio shows happen other than I show up dressed like crap and fun breaks out.
Stay tuned. Meanwhile, the Conspiracy Team is building a consensus theory on the events of 11-22-63 and in my November column, I’ll spill the beans. By the way, I have an awesome bean recipe! Uh oh …
Greg Budell lives in Montgomery with his dog Hershey. He’s a 25 year veteran of radio who hosts the Greg & Susan morning show 6-9 am and Happy Hour 3-6 pm on Newstalk 107.9, Greg can be reached at gregbudell@aol.com The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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