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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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Together makes us better. And you, too.
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The new UAB Multispecialty Clinic at Baptist Medical Center South brings two names you trust together.
Together makes us happier, stronger, better. That’s why Baptist South has opened a brand new clinic that brings the best names in healthcare together. Nurses and staff from Baptist South will join specially trained doctors from UAB to offer advanced care in many specialties. It’s a partnership that’s going to make everyone better, including you. Call today and make an appointment at the new UAB clinic. Let’s get you better, together.
See a UAB doctor in one of these specialties UROLOGY GASTROENTEROLOGY ENDOCRINOLOGY RHEUMATOLOGY
MULTISPECIALTY CLINIC BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER SOUTH
More specialties to come
Knowledge that will change your world
334.613.7070 UABmedicine-Baptist.com 2119 East South Blvd, east of the Emergency entrance at Baptist South The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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FIND YOUR MISSION AT FRAZER CHURCH Pictured: Sunrise over Haiti, one of many mission sites where Frazer members are making a difference for good around the world and right here in our communty.
Worship: Sundays 8, 9:30 &11am Contemporary & Traditional 6000 Atlanta Hwy. 334.272.8622
Worship: Sundays 10am in the Pike Road School Offices 37 Bridge St. 334.801.8090
Find Hope. Follow Jesus. www.frazer.church facebook.com/frazerumc
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It’s not just your joints that are suffering.
It’s your life.
Introducing the Joint Center of Alabama at Baptist South. Is joint pain making you miss out on life? It’s time to stop hurting and start living. The new Joint Center of Alabama at Baptist South offers joint replacement surgery, recovery and rehab all in one convenient
Joint Center of Alabama
AT BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER SOUTH
location. And our specialized doctors and surgeons know how to get you back to living. So call us today to schedule a visit.
Bring the pain.
BringUsYourPain.com (334) 273.4444
BOOM!, The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Contents
July 2016
Volume 6 Issue 12
“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
Facebook.com/RiverRegionBoom 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 10 Publisher’s Letter 12 Pay Attention to HEAT! 13 Healthy Hearing Casey Gonzalez 14 Stay Steady Leigh Anne Richards 16 A Mid-Year Update on Global Financial MarketsBrandt McDonald page 20
Features 34 Bicycling
Alabama’s Chief Ladiga and Georgia’s Silver Comet Trails
38 Discovering Your DNA
Commercial websites make it easy to discover your ethnic roots
19 River Region United Way “Day of Action”
44 Inland Waterways
Bourbon, blonde bombshells and behind-the-scenes tours
Departments 20 This and That
Now You’re “In the Know”
52 {12} Things
Solutions for Bored Boomers
48 Greg Budell
THE UNITED STATES OF BRAD
20 Community Foundation Awards More Than $92,000 in Grants 20 Riddles 25 River and Blues Music & Arts Festival in Wetumpka 26 Get Your Skin Special Occasion Ready 28 BOOM! Cover Profile: 36 Losing Your Marbles! Ask an Elder Law Attorney
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COVER PROFILE
41 A “fiblet” may be the best response Ask Nancy
page 28
42 Eating Smart with Tracy Bhalla: GMO Foods?
page 14 page 20
47 GALLERY ONE presents Art and Fashion 51 Dating Coach: How to overcome your fears about dating over 50
page 26
54 Culture Up...New Exhibits @ MMFA page 44 BOOM! The River Regions 50+ Lifestage Magazine is published monthly by River Region Publications, 6398 Eastwood Glen Pl., Montgomery, AL 36117. The phone number is 334.324.3472. Copyright 2016 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
Declaration of Independence 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
Associate Editor Kelly Watson
kelly@riverregionboom.com
Contributing Writers Sandi Aplin Jeff S. Barganier Tracy Bhalla Greg Budell
Candy Capel Lisa Copeland Casey Gonzalez Brandt McDonald Leigh Anne Richards Nancy Stein Wina Sturgeon Raley L. Wiggins Kathy Witt
As Americans we assume many things about our great country. One of those assumptions is our freedom. We take it for granted. When we age long enough we also recognize the effect of our government’s policies and laws eroding some of our freedoms. Many of these laws and policies are created in the name of safety, the welfare of others, they seem harmless at the time but over many years of observation, I’m not so sure. The other day, I was enjoying some dinner conversation with one of my grandsons, who is a college student. We were in a popular restaurant in Marietta, north of Atlanta. Our conversation turned to race relations in America and he quickly became uncomfortable with the openness of the conversation. Somehow the power of political correctness restricted his ability to exchange ideas in a public setting about an important issue in America today. Our conversation, completely respectful and considerate was chilled by political correctness. I was saddened by that experience because to me exchanging ideas and sharing solutions with each other makes us all better citizens of this great country we all live in. Chilling my conversation with political correctness feels like a loss of freedom. And it is. To combat what I think is a loss of freedom in America, I’m going to participate in a program sponsored by Hillsdale College to read the Declaration of Independence on July 4th to remind myself and others just what America meant to those brave men in 1776 when they declared their freedoms and ours for the world to know. You can join me in this simple act of patriotism and commitment to always remember America is about one thing, freedom! Go to this website and read the Declaration of Independence on July 4th www.hillsdale.edu/read-declaration-independence In this month’s issue we have the pleasure of profiling Candy Capel. I know Candy through the radio station she manages, WVAS 90.7 FM, the Alabama State University Public Radio Station. Their musical format is primarily Jazz and it’s the only place to get it in the lower half of Alabama. Candy is from New Orleans so she adds quite a bit of flavor to the WVAS listening experience and I think you’ll enjoy getting to know her in this month’s Cover Profile on page 28.
Cover Photography Kim Bethea Total Image Portraits www.totalimage.com 334.261.2080
Advertising
Jim Watson, 334.324.3472 jim@riverregionboom.com
As usual, we have some great columns from our community of writers including Greg Budell’s unique take on the American experience of today. Brandt McDonald will get you up to speed on the economy and your money in his mid-year summary. Leigh Anne Richards is always bringing something unique to make you think about your fitness, this month it’s Parkinson’s and boxing! Jeff Bargainer, a local writer from Pike Road, shares a biking trip that actually motivates me to go and buy my first bike in 50 years, thanks for the inspiration Jeff! We’ve also got a feature about getting your DNA to help figure out who you really are. There’s plenty more to sink your reading teeth in so sit back, relax and spend a few minutes enjoying this month’s issue of BOOM! Please give us a like on Facebook/RiverRegionBoom. If you’re going to spend some money, please spend some with our advertisers, they love serving well aged people! Read the Declaration of Independence and celebrate FREEDOM!
Jim
Design & Layout
jim@riverregionboom.com 334.324.3472 cell/text
Lake House Graphics
Distribution
Network Delivery
Printing Publications Press, Montgomery, AL 334.244.0436
Digital & Interactive
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Pay Attention to HEAT! Summer is a time for many to get more active and go outdoors more, and seniors are no exceptions. Although temperatures are currently mild, the hot and humid “dog days” of summer are not too far away. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heat exhaustion is a heat-related illness that could affect seniors in the heat. Heat exhaustion is a mild heat-related illness that can show symptoms after several days of exposure to heat, such as working in the yard or garden. Those who are at the highest risk to develop symptoms of heat exhaustion are those with high blood pressure and those doing activities in high-heat temperatures. The CDC said the warning signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting and fainting. A more serious heat-related illness is
heatstroke, which can be fatal. This happens when the body is unable to control its temperature. Body temperatures can get as high as 106 degrees in 10 to 15 minutes. The symptoms of heatstroke include extremely high body temperature, red and hot skin with no sweating, dizziness, confusion and unconsciousness. If you find someone with heatstroke symptoms, it is recommended that you try and cool the person as rapidly as possible and seek medical assistance. Heat-related illnesses can be avoided. One of the easiest ways to avoid heat exhaustion or heatstroke is by staying hydrated. Drinking additional water and staying away from caffeine drinks will help keep the body hydrated.
Some days, especially during the hottest part of the summer, it’s best to stay indoors more during the peak hours of the heat, which are usually in the afternoon. Monitor your local weather to keep up with the heat index, which is a combination of the temperature and humidity, providing as real-time reading of how hot it will actually feel outside. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The Side by Side Singers are dedicated to sharing music to keep our minds strong. Music can improve our mood and boost cognitive skills. We invite those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia and their care-partners to join us for 8-week sessions each Tuesday, 1:00-2:00 pm at First United Methodist Church in Montgomery. The music we sing ranges from Sinatra to Elvis. photo by Mickey Welsh/Montgomery Advertiser
SIDEbySIDE singers singers
Please contact Jack Horner at ivortickle@aol.com or Laura Selby at 834-8990 for more information. 12 BOOM!
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NO FEE, PLEASE JOIN THE FELLOWSHIP!
First United METHODIST CHURCH
2416 W. Cloverdale Park Montgomery, AL 36106 334.834.8990 www.fumcmontgomery.org
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The 3 Types of Hearing Loss—Are You at Risk?
Hearing loss can feel like uncharted territory when you aren’t sure how it happened or why it happened. Navigation gets even more confusing when you start researching and learning about treatment options. But, while hearing loss is unique to each person, there are three categories that help define the type of hearing loss by identifying which part of the ear has been affected. Sensorineural The most common type of hearing loss, sensorineural hearing loss is often treated with hearing aids. Sensorineural hearing loss is when the inner ear nerves are damaged and don’t send the right messages to the brain. Consequently, sounds become muffled and unclear, even when someone is speaking directly into your ear. What causes sensorineural hearing loss? • Aging • Genetics • Illness • Ototoxic drugs • Head trauma • Malformation of the inner ear • Exposure to loud noise Conductive Conductive hearing loss is described as
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a hearing loss caused by a blockage or malfunction of the outer or middle ear that impacts the transmission of sounds to the inner ear. This type of hearing loss results in a reduction in the volume of sounds and makes hearing soft sounds particularly challenging. While sensorineural hearing loss cannot be medically or surgically treated, conductive hearing loss often can.
Mixed A combination of both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss, mixed hearing loss can be caused by a number of different causes and can be treated surgically, medically or with hearing aids.
If you or a loved one have experienced hearing loss, the best course of action is to visit a licensed audiologist at a hearing clinic. There, you will receive a comprehensive hearing evaluation and consultation to review your results and By Casey Gonzalez, Au.D., CCC-A, FAAA treatment options.
Healthy Hearing Montgomery Hearing Services
What causes conductive hearing loss? • Fluid in the middle ear • Ear infection • Allergies • Perforated eardrum • Benign tumors • Impacted earwax • Infection in the ear canal • Swimmer’s ear • Presence of a foreign object • Malformation of the outer ear, ear canal or middle ear
Casey Gonzalez received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Disorders from Louisiana State University, and earned her Doctorate of Audiology degree from Louisiana State University Health Science Center. Casey holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech and Hearing Association and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology.
Free Hearing Screenings
Montgomery Hearing Services is offering free hearing screenings and demonstrations of hearing technology. For an appointment, call (334) 651-0500.
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Parkinson’s disease afflicts about a million Americans- more than multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy and ALS combined. Every year 60,000 more get the diagnosis, a number that is continuing to go up as the population ages. They face gradual loss of their muscles, leading to tremors, loss of balance, and difficulty walking or speaking. Parkinson’s is chronic and has no cure. In the past several years, MetroFitness has several clients that have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s - a lady as young as 50’s and a man in his 80’s. In my research about Parkinson’s, I started finding articles about the benefits of boxing with Parkinson’s patients. In 2006, Scott Newman, a former prosecutor and public safety director, along with his friend and former Golden Glove boxer, Vincent Perez, founded Rock Steady Boxing. At the age of 40 Newman was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Soon after the diagnosis Newman started boxing and felt a dramatic difference in his overall physical health- all an iconic twist since boxing has been linked to dementia, Alzheimer’s and even Parkinson’s. Private donations allowed Newman and Perez to open a small gym in Indianapolis they named Rock Steady. They created specific workouts for Parkinson’s patients in their levels of fitness. Now, the gym has 170 members and has gone through an expansion to accommodate the growing number of participants. Ages range from 30-90. Christy Follmer, a former professional boxer and head trainer at Rock Steady has watched the clientele grow. Follmer said that boxing is one of the most intense types of physical exercise an athlete can endure. By focusing on
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Stay Steady
He literally fought back because he found a gym in Rhode Island that offered the Rock Steady program. Now you can find him several times a week with his hands in bright red boxing gloves. Alongside him are a dozen other Parkinson’s patients ranging from a 46-yearold mother of teenagers to an 84-year-old physical education teacher who uses a wheel chair. They don’t punch each Richards other but are hitting 100 pound punching bags when they are not stretching or doing calisthenics.
different methodologies in one workout, cardiovascular, strength, balance, agility, footwork and eye hand coordination, trainers create a well rounded training plan to combat Parkinson’s. Because this is a non contact program, the risks to
Fitness over Fifty by Leigh Anne
patients are the same as with any other exercise program, said Dr. Mark Stacy, professor of neurology, at Duke University Medical Center Follmer said the trainers constantly change up the exercises which creates muscle confusion that can benefit the strength training and balance Parkinson’s patients need. For patients with more severe symptoms, trainers stand beside them to lessen the risk of falls. The participants never get bored- they are always moving from station to station. It is very fun and challenging but doable to their fitness level. Participants work drills such as jump rope, ring work, speed bags, double end bags and focus mits to improve eye hand coordination, balance and agility. Follmer states they try to implement tough love and push these people harder and beyond their perceived limits. However, they are aware when too much is too much. Rock Steady gym has now expanded into different cities other than Indianapolis. They are now in places like Boston and in Pawtucket Rhode Island. Mike Quaglia was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at age 42. For the next 7 years his condition deteriorated despite medication. “I was at a point where I was either going to give up and let Parkinson’s take over or I was going to fight back,” Quaglia said.
On days Quaglia boxes, he does not need to take his medication for six hours afterward- twice as long as usual. His depression lifted, and he has more self confidence. Boxing, he says, “doesn’t cure, but it helps.” MetroFitness now has a boxing area with hanging heavy bags and speed bags. I am happy to advertise that we are fully equipped to assist anybody interested in boxing lessons and even a boxing class. Boxing is only one of the movement therapies gaining in popularity as antidotes to Parkinson’s. Other Parkinson’s patients are drumming, dancing to a Latin beat, or practicing the ancient Chinese art of tai chi or golfing. Even patients with advanced disease can benefit. One particular man said he could barely move one day when he got up but when he started his drumming class, he was one of the most energetic participants. Dr. Daniel Tarsy, director of the Parkinson’s disease program at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston sees meaningful change in patients who participate in exercise programs. “I’m a believer,” Tarsy says. “Patients look a lot different walking out an hour later than they did walking in. They literally have a bounce to their step.” Tarsy says patients often report The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
their movements become more fluid. That is the opposite of the rigid, jerky movements typical of Parkinson’s A 2012 study from the Oregon Research Institute found Parkinson’s patients who did six months of twice weekly tai chi had better balance and control over their movements and were less likely to fall than others that did weight training or stretching. The weight trainers had improved balance and fewer falls than those that only stretched. The National Parkinson’s Foundation website says there is a growing consensus among researchers about the short and long term benefits of exercise for people with Parkinson’s Disease. Research shows it improves gait, balance, tremors, flexibility, grip strength and motor coordination. Dr Tarsay says that many patients feel that exercise liberates them from this “straightjacket” called Parkinson’s.
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Scientists are trying to figure our how exercise can counter the effects of the disease and possibly prevent it. Among 43,000 Swedes followed for nearly 13 years, the risk of Parkinson’s was almost
He specifically says tai chi movements are geared to be upright and moving. They translate a little better into going downstairs and walking the aisles in a supermarket and being able to lift and put things down carefully. Tai Chi engages mind and body“mindful movement.” Through all the literature that I have read to write this article, one thing was said in every article - It’s all about pushing yourself past your limits and reaching that point where you don’t think you can reach. Just get moving around. Any kind of purposeful exercise is a tonic for the brain!
cut in half for those who engaged in moderate levels of exercise. One clue is that animals with a form of the diseases have higher levels of dopamine (the brain chemical deficient in Parkinson’s) if they are made to exercise. Peter Wayne at Harvard Medical School is looking at how the brains of humans with Parkinson’s change in response to 6 months of exercise.
** “Boxing Helps Parkinson’s Patients Stay Steady.”, Chelsea Rice, October 13, 2014. Boston.com/culture/ health/2014/10/13 “Fight Parkinson’s: Exercise May be the Best Therapy.”, Richard Knox, NPR now Feb 2, 2015 “Rock Steady Gym Workouts Fight Off Parkinson’s Disease.” Mikaela Conley, Feb 22, 2011, abcnews. go.com/health
Leigh Anne Richards, MEd, Certified Personal Trainer, Group Exercise Instructor, General Manager- MetroFitness. For any questions or comments, contact Leigh Anne at LAMetrofit@aol.com
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A Mid-Year Update on Global Financial Markets
Have you ever been able to solve a Rubik’s cube? Surely, most of you have tried. It’s a tough puzzle to solve and most people I know just simply give up out of sheer frustration. Undoubtedly, that’s exactly how I think Janet Yellen, the chairwoman of the U.S. Federal Reserve must feel these days. After months of telegraphing to the market that she intended on raising interest rates, she finally caved in at the June FOMC meeting and waived the white flag of surrender. One governor of the fed even went so far as to say that they are not using good data, that they were mistaken and that it now appears that only one rate hike is necessary for the next two and half years!! Simply put the U.S. economy along with its trading partners Japan, China, and Europe is a Rubik’s cube that the fed just simply cannot figure out. So, what is it that has the fed so mystified and in a stupor?
Now that we’ve passed the mid-point of 2016, let’s look at where we are and discuss potential outcomes for the remaining half the year. Obviously, the Brexit vote results were shocking and widely unexpected. The U.K. vote to leave the European Union will go down as one of the most significant historical events in a generation. It could quite possibly be the beginning of the end for EU and will surely cast negative feedback loops on the shores of America. Combined with stagnant global economic activity and in many cases outright deflation, the world economic outlook is bleak to say the least. A contagion of deflation is sweeping over the globe at a rapid clip. On May 26th of this year, $7.8T of global sovereign debt had negative yields. By the time of this writing in late June, that number is now $13T!!! Central banks around the world are trying to fight deflation with deflation by implementing negative rates and it is NOT working. In a world of negative rates, it literally means that if you purchase a Japanese ten year bond you are guaranteed to lose money every single year for the ten-year period. Why would anyone do that? Simply
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put, it’s because it is a known loss and one that hopefully will be better than other investment options available at the time. Let’s see how that is working. Japan is down 22%, Germany is down 20%, France is down 17%, and the U.K. is down 14%. Central Bankers amaze me with all of their theories. Sooner or later they will realize that negative rates don’t work and won’t work. All it does is force people to spend less and save more, which means less economic with activity, not more. Brandt McDonald Sales of steel fireproof safes in Japan have sky rocketed by 20% in the last 6 months. People in that country would just as soon hoard the cash in a safe as opposed to losing money in the bank. And the same thing is happening all over Europe. All major central banks have been very active for the least 18 months but our own Federal Reserve has been on the sidelines.
Financial Thoughts
The fed stopped printing money in October of 2014 and it is no surprise to me that it is precisely during that time that the U.S. stock market began a long 18-month journey of zero returns. Take away the fuel and the asset prices (stocks) seize up. The U.S. economy has grown a paltry 1.8% average over the last five years and wages haven’t budged. Yet, the average cost for shelter (a place to live) in this country is going up at a 3.75% rate year over year. This is simply a death nail for the U.S. consumer. When the cost of shelter is growing at a 50% faster rate than the economy it means that on average most U.S. citizens are getting dramatically squeezed and will surely reduce discretionary spending. In other words, they will do what is necessary to keep a roof over their heads at all costs and tighten the belt if necessary. With economic conditions worsening, the odds of a fourth round of Quantitative Easing are rising at a precipitous rate.
Here in the United States, 10-year bond yields have cratered all the way back to the lows of June 2012. It’s comical to me that our own Fed touted higher rates coming yet the bond market vetoed them and drove rates down right after her announcement – talk about a vote of no confidence. There are many extremely smart portfolio managers that I greatly respect who now expect the fed to embark on a fourth round of QE (money printing) sometime in the next 6-12 months. The very simple explanation of what is happening all over the world is that there is entirely too much debt (think entitlement programs) in the global system and structural reforms MUST HAPPEN at the government level before any improvement can take place. Without this, I expect global stock market returns will average between 4%-5% for the next ten years. Most likely, the next several months will be quite volatile as we grapple with this new negative rate phenomenon. And then of course, we have the Presidential election. Last month I wrote about a potential Trump Presidency. Next month I will do the same with Hillary. But for now, as Trump gains in the polls, which I suspect he will, the stock market will be gripped with anxiety over Mr. Trump’s polarizing commentary and Reagan-like economic ideas. To be sure a Trump presidency would mean wider budget deficits and more debt. But, depending on how it’s handled, it might not be a bad fiscal stimulus move. After all, if you can borrow money for thirty years at 2.5% interest and re-allocate that capital into real, higher returning investments it could potentially result in the mother lode of arbitrage. Even Hillary would most likely attempt the same thing. The difference though is how the fiscal stimulus program would work. Obama’s
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version consisted of political payback and capital investment in “no bid” pet projects and was a giveaway program through entitlements – food stamps and general welfare programs. A Reagan like program would look more capitalistic in nature – competitive open market bids for real infrastructure projects (roads, bridges, etc.) For example, if you borrow roughly $2T for 30 years at 2.5% and invest that money in real capital projects, GDP would expand to at least 5%, if by nothing else from the essential definition of GDP which includes government spending. If the real rate of return expanded and 30-year bond yields went to say 4%-5%, the U.S. could buy those bonds back at roughly 75 cents on the dollar!!!* Regardless of the short-term gyrations that we will experience in the coming months, stimulus in some form is coming and that most likely means higher stock prices. Let’s just hope it’s for the right reasons this time. Here at McDonald & Hagen, Wealth Management, we are continuously working hard and pouring through our research to navigate volatile markets. To that end, we greatly appreciate our clients and welcome those of you whom we’ve never had the pleasure to meet. As I always say, until next time, remember to never run with the herd, always be thankful, and look to the future with anticipation of what’s yet to come. Brandt McDonald, Managing Partner McDonald & Hagen Wealth Management LPL Branch Manager MBCapitalWealth.com Direct comments and questions to bailey.worrell@lpl.com or 334.387.0094 Securities offered through LPL Financial Member FINRA/SIPC. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. The economic forecasts set forth in the presentation may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful. *This is a hypothetical example, and is not representative of any specific situation. Your results will vary. The hypothetical rates of return used do not reflect the deduction of fees and charges inherent to investing.
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River Region United Way Mobilizes Volunteers and Serves Seniors through “Day of Action” The River Region United Way (RRUW) recently mobilized community volunteers to prepare and deliver nutritious meals to low-income, homebound seniors. “Delivering meals on the ‘Day of Action’ was simply rewarding,” explained volunteer Renee Williams. “The smiles on their faces, as we handed over the meals, reminded me of the importance of giving and why I do what I do.” On June 21, 2016, United Ways around the world provided meaningful, impact-oriented service opportunities to advance community goals in education, financial stability and health through the annual Day of Action. Locally, the River Region United Way answered this call to action with a project to help feed some of the hundreds of homebound seniors in our community who need a helping hand. The Day of Action shined a spotlight on some of the basic needs in the River Region, and encouraged people to take action and make a positive impact by volunteering with the United Way or one of its affiliate agencies. Day of Action Volunteer Rodonna Shannon holding one of the 1,151 frozen meals that were delivered to homebound seniors.
One of those basic needs in Alabama is that one in five seniors struggles with hunger. Programs like Meals On Wheels delivers the support that keeps seniors in their own homes, where they want to be (Source: Meals On Wheels America). “There are 366 seniors in the Montgomery area who are on a waiting list for the Meals On Wheels program, operated by United Way affiliate agency Montgomery Area Council On Aging Paula Hill and Billy Nelson, employees of Synovus-Sterling Bank, (MACOA). These individuals live pictured at the Montgomery Area Council on Aging. at or below the poverty level, are unable to drive and are in need of nutritious meals,” said Ann Cooper, Vice President of Community Impact at RRUW. The River Region United Way partnered with Kimberly Clark’s Depend brand for a grant to help meet this need on the 2016 Day of Action. Through this project, Depend and United Way came together to promote healthy, active and independent living through an individual’s life, with a focus on volunteering. RRUW recruited 166 volunteers for this project – 100 of them from 20 area businesses. More than 1,150 frozen meals were prepared by Wind Creek Hospitality’s “Good to Go” Food Truck and the Courthouse Cafe, and were then packaged by volunteers on June 14-16 for distribution on June 21 to the 366 seniors on the waiting list.
Janice Dixon with MACOA’s Meals On Wheels program and Ann Cooper, Vice President of Community Impact at River Region United Way.
“As a member of United Way’s Community Council and Budget & Allocations Committee, I know there’s a need in our community,” volunteer Laura Chambliss said. “There are so many of our senior citizens that need meals and services, and it’s exciting to provide them a service they haven’t had before. It’s very rewarding to know that we’ve been able to help these families that need help. It’s just as rewarding for us as it is for them.”
With so many of our neighbors in need, there’s no reason to wait until the next Day of Action on June 21, 2017. Every day can be a day of action! Those inspired to serve can learn more about volunteer opportunities with United Way and its affiliate agencies by visiting www.RiverRegionUnitedWay.org/Volunteer. R ive r Re gio n Bo o m . co m July 2016 BOOM! 19 The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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Community Foundation Awards More Than $92,000 in Grants The Central Alabama Community Foundation (CACF) distributed thousands in grant dollars to nonprofits in the areas of food, medical and family support who provide services in Autauga, Elmore, Montgomery, Macon and Lowndes counties. The presentation took place at the Montgomery State Farmers Market. 2016 Grant RecipientsFamily-$5,000 to Brantwood Children’s Home, $5,000 to Child Protect, $5,000 to Montgomery YMCA; Food-$5,000 to Compassion21, $5,000 to Montgomery Area Food Bank, $5,000 to Society of St. Andrew; Medical-$5,000 to Impact of Alabama, $5,000 to Kid One Transport, $5,000 to Montgomery Cancer Wellness Foundation, $5,000 to Refuge 1212, Inc. DBA Red Mountain Grace; AACF-$2,300 to Montgomery Area Family Violence Program, Inc. d.b.a. Family Sunshine “Thanks for helping us serve the River Region Community” Center, ECCF-$2,500 to Hospice of Montgomery, $2,500 to Montgomery Area Family Violence Program, Inc. d.b.a. Family Sunshine Center; Field of Interest-Group Homes for Children Fund-$4,000 to Bridge Builders Alabama; Merle S. and Mack C. Hunt Diabetes Fund-$12,500 to Service Dogs Alabama, $12,500 to UAB School of Optometry. Technical Assistance-$2,500 to Brantwood Children’s Home, $875 to First Choice Women’s Medical Center, $2,500 to Hospice of Montgomery, $1,328.05 to Montgomery Area Food Bank. The Central Alabama Community Foundation is a nonprofit philanthropic foundation created by and for the people of central Alabama. Individuals and corporate donors make gifts and bequests of any size for the betterment of our community. Through our grants program, the Foundation addresses a wide variety of needs and opportunities, supporting programs and projects in education, human services, health, cultural arts, and other civic concerns. For more info visit www.cacfinfo.org
FIVE RIDDLES...
1. A murderer is condemned to death. He has to choose between three rooms. The first is full of raging fires, the second is full of assassins with loaded guns, and the third is full of lions that haven’t eaten in 3 years. Which room is safest for him? 2. A woman shoots her husband. Then she holds him under water for over 5 minutes. Finally, she hangs him. But 5 minutes later they both go out together and enjoy a wonderful dinner together. How can this be? 3. What is black when you buy it, red when you use it, and gray when you throw it away ? 4. Can you name three consecutive days without using the words Wednesday, Friday, or Sunday? 5. This is an unusual paragraph. I’m curious as to just how quickly you can find out what is so unusual about it. It looks so ordinary and plain that you would think nothing was wrong with it. In fact, nothing is wrong with it! It is highly unusual though. Study it and think about it, but you still may not find anything odd. But if you work at it a bit, you might find out. Try to do so without any coaching! (answers on page 24)
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Table Tennis Tourney at Crump Senior Center Join in the fun on August 12 and 13 by registering to play in an amateur ping pong tournament to benefit Renascence. Friday, August 12 starts with a Preview Party and Celebrity Slamfest from 6 9 pm at the Crump Senior Center, 1750 Congressman Dickinson Drive. Saturday, August 13, is the Main Event, with play from 9 am to 4 pm, also held at the Crump Senior Center. Registrants can compete in Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced competition categories. Entry fees are $10/player for individuals under 18 years of age, and $20/player for those 18 years of age or older. Registration at www.halfway-home.net must be completed and fees paid online by August 1st.
THE LATTICE INN WINS SIXTH IN A ROW TRIPADVISOR “CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE” The Lattice Inn today announced that it has received its sixth in a row TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence award. The Inn is also a member of TripAdvisor’s “Certificate of Excellence Hall of Fame”. The two accolades honor hospitality excellence and are given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveler reviews on TripAdvisor, and is extended to qualifying businesses worldwide. Jim Yeaman, owner/innkeeper at The Lattice Inn notes: “Winning the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for six consecutive years is Jim Yeaman, The Lattice Inn a true source of pride and we’d like to thank all of our past guests who took the time to complete a review of their stay at The Lattice Inn on TripAdvisor. There is no greater seal of approval than being recognized by one’s customers. With the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence based on customer reviews, the accolade is a remarkable vote of confidence to our business and our continued commitment to excellence.” In addition to the recognition from TripAdvisor as Montgomery’s #1 Bed & Breakfast, The Lattice Inn has also been named the best bed & breakfast in Montgomery for the past four years in the annual Readers’ Choice survey conducted by the Montgomery Advertiser. The Lattice Inn is an award-winning and unique bed and breakfast nestled in the heart of Montgomery’s historic Garden District. Since 1993, The Lattice Inn has provided an exceptional lodging experience in a tastefully updated 1906-era cottage. For more info visit www.thelatticeinn.com or call 334.263.1414
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Tribute to Tuskegee Airmen What happens when the Air Force, Air National Guard, the National Park Service, Golden Eagle Aviation, the Legacy Flight Academy and the CAF Red Tail Squadron get together? Two days of FREE family-friendly events for all ages that will honor the 75th anniversary of the famed Tuskegee Airmen, America’s first black military pilots and their support personnel! On Thursday, July 14, the 187th Fighter Wing and 100th Fighter Squadron of the Alabama Air National Guard will host an Open House from 2 to 7 pm at Montgomery Regional Airport. On Saturday, July 16, visit the National Tuskegee Historic Site at historic Moton Field in Tuskegee for an Open House from 10 am to 4:00 pm. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the CAF Red Tail Squadron’s RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit, military aircraft on static display, aerial displays, skydiving, and hands-on opportunities to learn about US Air Force and other military careers while experiencing the inspirational history and legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen. Keep an eye on the CAF Red Tail Squadron Facebook page for information on how you can win a VIP experience at the event. One lucky Facebook user will receive a specially guided tour of the Alabama Air National Guard 187th Fighter Wing from the ground AND the air, along with an airshow survival kit, CAF Red Tail Squadron merchandise and more. No purchase necessary to play, just “LIKE” the CAF Red Tail Squadron on Facebook and watch for the big announcement!
2016 National Horseshoe Pitchers Association World Tournament
Hutsler pictured with Depot Board Members From Left, Mariella Easterling, Craig Sheldon, Carol Heier, Hazel Jones, Hutsler, Jeff Langham, Warren Jones and Carolyn Osborn
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The National Horseshoe Pitchers Association is pleased to announce the 2016 NHPA World Horseshoe Pitching Championships to be held July 25 - August 6 in Montgomery, AL. Up to sixty portable horseshoe courts will be installed in the Multiplex at Cramton Bowl for the competition and practice. This twoweek event is held once each summer to crown a World Champion horseshoe pitcher in each of eight divisions - Open Men, Open Women, Senior Men, Senior Women, Elder (short-distance) Men, Junior Boys, Junior Girls and Junior Cadets (12-years old and under). This year’s entrants hail from the United States, Canadian and, for the first time, Switzerland - all vying for titles of World Champion and a share of the over $160,000 in prizes. Previous years have seen competitors from Norway, South Africa, Namibia and Japan. Current Men’s world champion, Alan Francis of Defiance, OH, earned his twentieth world title in the 2015 Men’s division and will be vying for number twenty-one, this year with his 89.25% ringer percentage! For more information about the sport of Horseshoe Pitching visit www.horseshoepitching.com The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
America’s Independence Day Celebrations!
The Independence Day Summer Fest, the annual Fourth of July celebration hosted by the Town of Pike Road will take place at The Waters on Marler Road beginning at 5 pm, gates will open at 4:30 pm and admission is $10 per vehicle. This year’s Summer Fest will feature food, family friendly fun and fireworks. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chairs to enjoy live music and hamburgers, hot dogs and beverages for sale with proceeds benefiting the Pike Road Lions Club. The night will culminate with a fireworks spectacular overlooking Lake Cameron, Montgomery County’s largest lake. 4th of July Picnic on the River, Join the City of Montgomery & for a family picnic and 4th of July Celebration along the riverfront. Enjoy food vendors & kids inflatables. There will be activities for kids, a Rib Eating Competition with prizes, live music at the amphitheatre and fireworks!! Prattville’s 15th Annual Independence Day Parade, the 4th of July parade will be held on Monday, July 4th. The parade will begin at 9 am at the Autauga County Courthouse and will end at Stanley-Jensen Stadium. The community is encouraged to participate in this free parade. Prattville’s Fireworks Presentation, the annual fireworks presentation will be held at Stanley-Jensen Stadium. Gates open at 6pm with a concert by the band “Creativity.” Fireworks begin at dark. The admission to this spectacular event is FREE and the public is encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. NO pets or bottles are allowed.
Are You or Someone You Know Experiencing Grief? If you or someone you know is experiencing times of grief, Hospice of Montgomery, a leading caregiving provider would invite you to call us for support. Our grief support is open to anyone in the community. please call us. We will also be sponsoring a Grief Support Group in August. The group will meet each Thursday in August from 10:30 – 11:30 at Hospice of Montgomery at 1111 Holloway Park. The community is invited. For more information contact Winston Brooks at 279-6677.
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Summer Painting with Sandra! Back by popular demand, Sandra Hicks Larson will teach these fun and informative series of classes, designed for students of all levels, including those who have no prior painting experience. Participants will work from photographs and will view landscapes in the Museum for inspiration. Since these classes are offered during the summer, participants may sign up for individual classes or the entire series. Class size is limited to 10. Some supplies provided. Classes are from 6 to 8:30 pm on Thursdays, August 4, 11, September 1, 15, 22. Cost is $30 for MMFA members per class/$40 nonmembers per class; or $140 members/$190 non-members for the series of five classes. More Information on Website: www.mmfa.org/events/summer-painting-with-sandra
AFRICAN AMERICAN GENEALOGY: THE BASICS AND BEYOND Saturday, August 13 from 9:00 to 12:00
Start discovering your African American ancestors and build your family tree in this half-day workshop led by the Archives’ expert genealogist Nancy Dupree. This workshop will provide step-bystep instruction and guidance on the many resources available in the ADAH’s EBSCO Research Room, tips and tricks for navigating potential research roadblocks, and address challenges specific to African American genealogical research. Dupree will focus on the basics for beginners and also provide more experienced participants valuable tools for taking their research to the next level. This workshop is suited for all levels of research experience. Cost is $30 for the general public and $20 for Friends of the Alabama Archives Now Available at members. All proceeds support the Friends of the Alabama Archives. For more info contact Sarah McQueen, Alabama Department of Archives and History, 334.242.4364 or sarah.mcqueen@archives.alabama.gov
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THE ANSWERS TO ALL FIVE RIDDLES FROM PAGE 20: 1. The third room. Lions that haven’t eaten in three years are dead. That one was easy, right? 2. The woman was a photographer. She shot a picture of her husband, developed it, and hung it up to dry (shot; held under water; and hung). 3. Charcoal, as it is used in barbecuing. 4. Sure you can name three consecutive days, yesterday, today, and tomorrow! 5. The letter “e” which is the most common letter used in the English language, does not appear even once in the paragraph.
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River and Blues Music & Arts Festival in Wetumpka A little slice of New Orleans and its music in Wetumpka, Alabama. Come and join in the fun and bring the whole family. There will be vendors, food, activities for kids, and, of course, lots of music! From zydeco to blues to jazz and best of all, IT’S FREE!!! You’re sure to find something to dance to! Mark your calendar for Saturday, July 16th and keep checking back here for more information over the next few weeks. The fun begins at 3pm and lasts until 10pm! Downtown Wetumpka. www.facebook. com/WetumpkasRiverandBlues/
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For the Grandkids...Models & Manners, Mr. Manners Etiquette Classes Join the Capital City Club for Models & Manners, Mr. Manners Etiquette Classes during the week of July 11 – 14 from 9 – 10 am each day. Girls Ages 5 to 15 and Boys Ages 7 to 12 are invited to the Capital City Club’s 29th Annual Models & Manners and Mr. Manners Etiquette Classes. Instructor Rhea Kirk will be teaching the art of introduction, table manners, telephone greetings, personal hygiene, and many other etiquette tips to prepare your child for a brighter future. Girls will even receive fashion tips and learn modeling steps. Classes will begin at 9 am sharp each morning, and go until 10 am, Monday through Thursday, followed by the Graduation Dinner on Thursday night (July 14) at 6 pm when students of the Models & Manners and Mr. Manners class will receive their Certificate of Completion. Open to the Public. $85 per student of Members and $100 per student of Non-Members. Graduation Dinner $40 for Family Members & Guests. To sign your grandchild up, or need more information, contact Heather Logan at heather.logan@clubcorp.com or call 334.834.8920.
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” The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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Beauty Buzz From our blog at RiverRegionFacialPlastics.com
Special Occasion Ready Let us help you plan for your special event. Everyone always wants to put his or her best face forward on that special day. Whether it’s your wedding, your son or daughter’s wedding, a reunion or a special vacation, creating a specialized plan for achieving your goal is helpful. For new or established patients, it is helpful to create an individualized treatment plan (ITP) with the goal date in mind so that you are “healed” and ready to go for that special time. Getting your skin in tiptop shape is achievable when combining the best treatments. We can incorporate a special combination of chemical peels and DermaPen® treatments that would blend with a skin care regimen that works for your skin and your lifestyle. Treatments such as Botox® Cosmetic and Fillers are staples in these plans as they give an instantaneous boost that enhances your overall look. Laser procedures such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) are great for making the skin tone more even. Surgical procedures such as upper Eyelid Surgery, Facelift and Rhinoplasty are timed so that the recovery will happen in time for your event. Give us your timeline and we will give you our plan to enhance your natural beauty, call 270.2003. Special Occasion Timeline: 6 months or more before your event • Surgery: whether it is Eyelid Surgery, a Facelift or Rhinoplasty, the longer you have to recover after surgery the better. 3 months or more before your event • Start your skin care regimen, which includes a combination of DermaPen® treatments, Chemical Peels and at-home skin care regimen. You can get 3 treatments during this time. 2 months or more before your event • Intense Pulsed Light Treatment (IPL): great for aging hands, sun spots on face, or chest freckling. Treatments can be done every 2-4 weeks • Volumizer such as Juvederm® Voluma; it takes 6 weeks to see final results. • Get 1 DermaPen® treatment; follow up 1 month later with a Chemical Peel. Continue skin care use. 1 month or more before your event • Muscle Relaxer such as Botox® Cosmetic: It takes two weeks to see the full effect • 1 DermaPen® treatment: do this at the beginning of the month. • Event Chemical Peel: do this about 2 days before your event, as there is no downtime Please contact us via email at Doctors@RiverRegionFacialPlastics.com with your questions or comments!
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BOOM! COVER PROFILE
Candy Capel, Smooth Jazz, Blues & More was on a couple of episodes of the sitcom “Sister Sister”). However, she had tired of this career by the time she went to high school. Our return to Alabama coincided with Jasmine’s first year of college at Alabama State University, after which she transferred to, and graduated from, UA. Jasmine currently works for the Robin Hood Foundation in NYC, and she and her husband live in Brooklyn. Lea graduated from UAB, and she has just begun her training with “Teach for America”; she is now based in Atlanta. I am (twice) divorced. I am the oldest of four children: my sister, Denise, is a physician at the Montgomery VA Hospital; my brother, Wallace, Jr., is a federal magistrate judge in Montgomery; and, my younger sister, Jackie, is an RN with the VA Hospital in Atlanta.
This month’s BOOM! Cover Profile is Candy Capel. Candy fits into the lives of anyone who enjoys listening to Jazz on their radio as they work and play in the River Region because she is the Station Manager of Alabama State’s Public Radio Station, WVAS 90.7 FM. The station is also dedicated to the community because Candy wants to serve their listeners and make a contribution to the quality of life in the River Region. Recently, Candy shared some of her life’s story with us, she is an interesting woman who is aging quite well and it’s probably because of her genes...her dad is turning 101 years old soon! We hope you enjoy you’ll enjoy getting to know Candy 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.? Candy: I was born in New Orleans, but I’m an “Army brat”, so I traveled all of my life with my parents before attending college. This travel included stints in North Carolina, Germany, Texas, Kansas, New Jersey, Colorado, and Utah (I attended four different high schools in four different states). I graduated from Newcomb College of Tulane University with a B.S. in psychology. I received a scholarship to attend (which I did for a semester) Vanderbilt Law School, but I left and pursued a brief modeling career in NYC. The modeling work included a tour with a group of African-American models that travelled to Australia, Papua New Guinea and New Zealand for performances.
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Candy celebrating her birthday in New York City
When my father retired from the U.S. Army after 20 years of service, he resettled in Tuskegee and returned to the V.A. Hospital (site of one of his first medical assignments before he was drafted) as the chief of staff. He served 20 years in that capacity and retired again, remaining in Tuskegee. My parents’ presence in Tuskegee, and eventually their failing health, brought me back to the Montgomery area. I have two adult daughters, Jasmine and Lea. They were raised in Alabama, New Jersey and California. We lived in the two latter states while Jasmine was pursuing a career as a child actress (she had a small part in the movie “Deep Impact” and she
BOOM!: You are the station manager for WVAS 90.7FM, the public radio station at Alabama State University which is also the only fulltime jazz station in the southern half of Alabama. Could you tell us how you got interested in radio and your journey to WVAS? As a public radio station, how is your approach different than commercial radio? How do you know what your listeners want? Candy: I “fell into” radio by accident. After I left law school and before departing to NYC to model, I worked with a group that had established a new FM station in Tuskegee. I was taught radio announcing by (now City Councilman) Tracy Larkin. In 1984, the debut year of WVAS, I was offered a part-time
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commercial radio.
Candy with her 100-year-old dad at ASU’s Military Appreciation Day/Football Game
announcer’s position which I accepted. This is my third stint at WVAS, so I obviously love the profession.
We believe that we know what our listeners want because of the calls that we receive, the monetary support that we receive from our listener-supporters, and the audience data that we gather through both national subscription services as well as excellent audience research performed by ASU’s Center for Leadership
even across the Mississippi line on good days… and have folks enjoying what we do. Our listeners can “take” WVAS with them anywhere through our land signal or via our internet stream, so we have a vast area that we serve. We’ve heard from listeners all over the globe, as a matter of fact, who have found our “live” stream during their searches for great jazz. In addition, when listeners that we run into out in public find out who we are and where we work, they are so complimentary about the station. The calls that we receive from listeners who ask about a particular song and then to go on to rave about our service is further validation of what we do.
Our awardwinning news department BOOM!: Candy, you As a public radio station, we are not delivers seven (7) once said “radio bound by established playlists; we are full (as opposed to gives you the ability not programmed by some out-of-state 60- or 90-second to constantly create corporate entity with no local presence; headlines) and reinvent. That’s and, we do not play commercials. newscasts each what I love about Rather, we remain strongly committed weekday. This is it”, would you share to community engagement and localism. news about our more about your We can take our airtime and use it in the community, our passion for radio? best manner possible without having region, and our to worry about satisfying commercial state. It’s not Candy: I often tell my sponsors. Messages heard on our simply “ripped” staff that I marvel at airwaves (which are called “underwriting” from the wire our ability to actually rather than “commercials”) are from hear what we create Candy at younger daughter Lea’s graduation from UAB services, but supporters who believe in the importance rather compiled and produce on a of arts and culture in the community, and by our reporters complete with rich sound daily basis. When we’re on the road, we who look at WVAS as an excellent means from the stories that we are covering. We could be riding next to someone who of sharing have also been privileged to witness and is enjoying their messages broadcast history in the making; this was what we have about their the case in 2015 with our wall-to-wall collectively products coverage of the 50th anniversary of the produced; I or services Selma to Montgomery March and the sometimes with a target 40th anniversary of the Montgomery Bus find myself audience Boycott. The case of awards in our office watching my that is from both the Alabama Broadcasters fellow drivers sophisticated, Association and the Alabama Associated to see if I can well-educated, Press Media Editors is a testament to figure out to and blessed the excellent work that the news staff which station with a good performs every day. [NOTE: WVAS was they are amount of the winner for four first-place Associated tuned. And disposable Press awards and one honorary mention this means income. We this past weekend in Birmingham; we are that we could Candy with daughters Lea and Jasmine at the Robin Hood are also most proud of the first place radio award literally be Foundation’s gala in NYC committed given to the entire staff for our coverage heard in any to providing the best in jazz music, a of the 50th anniversary of the Selma-toof 17 counties in southeast Alabama… genre that does not always fare well on Montgomery March.] The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
and Public Policy.
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Finally, through Because of our power and our mission, public radio, we we have always treated WVAS as a fullhave the ability time, professional radio station capable of to literally competing in the market with every other touch lives. station out there. We have a full-time We have given professional staff that includes a news a voice to our director and three full-time reporters, one servicemen and part-time reporter/public affairs program servicewomen host, and several part-time professional through our announcers. We are a 24-hour, 365 days “A Veteran a year operation that celebrated its 32nd Speaks” year on the air as of June 15, 2016. series. We have brought Any staff member can recite to you our together youth, commitment to excellence in everything educators, that we do; that’s why our motto is parents “WVAS…the Sound of Excellence”. They Jay Holcey, WVAS Music Director, comedian/activist/keynote speaker Dick Gregory and Candy and others know that it is what I expect, whether we to address ever receive any compliments or awards. providing an outlet for the presentation the huge high school dropout rate in We always want to well represent our of enrichment programs of an academic, Alabama. We have celebrated the station, Alabama State University, and cultural, artistic and informative nature. accomplishments of women of the our community. It is also important for WVAS will accomplish this, in part, River Region and the success of those us to set a standard and an excellent by providing ASU students hands-on, re-entering society after successfully example for the ASU students who come practical broadcast experience in a battling addiction and other challenges. to us for training and guidance. We don’t professional and realistic environment.” We have told the first-hand stories of take lightly our responsibility to prepare some of those most affected by the BP the next generation of journalists and Most college radio stations are low-power oil spill in our Gulf Coast region. And broadcasters who will institutions with a we’ve brought joy through our former be able to exhibit the signal that barely “Jazz on the Grass” series each Labor passion, commitment makes it off of Day weekend; this annual series has and skill set needed to their campuses. now been reborn as the “Nat King Cole succeed in the media WVAS, on the Society Jazz Festival” with our next event arena. other hand, is scheduled for September 4th at the blessed with Riverfront Amphitheater. We are in the BOOM!: Technology 80,000 watts of planning stages as we speak for a town impacts everything power which is hall meeting/block party in July 2016 we do, can you share just under the to address the escalating murder/gun how technology has 100,000-watt violence rate in Montgomery, especially impacted the radio mark of the as it affects young black men in this city. station, for example most powerful what is HD radio? stations in the BOOM!: Unlike many college radio region. It is this stations, WVAS offers a professional vibe Candy: It is imperative power, again, that and in many ways is the voice of Alabama that WVAS keep up makes our large State University, how does this impact with, and stay on top of, audio “footprint” your management of the station? the latest technology possible. Our when it comes to radio signal carries us Candy: Our call letters actually stand broadcasting. We were south between for “Voice of Alabama State”, and we most fortunate to have Greenville and are proud to provide the University received grants from Evergreen; east with an audio “visibility” that promotes both the Corporation for into the hills of its history and accomplishments. Our Public Broadcasting and Opelika; north into Candy awaiting the arrival of President Obama current mission statement is as follows: the U. S. Department of the Birmingham “The mission of WVAS is to support Commerce to transition the station from area; and, west all the way across Alabama State University’s statewide analog to digital broadcasting a few years Highway 80 and into Mississippi on good, mission for outreach and public service by ago. This gave us the ability to begin clear days.
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broadcasting in HD (high definition) which allows for a better, more crisp, and more detailed sound; if you picture what HD has done for television, imagine that same change when it comes to audio.
Internet stream by visiting our website (www. wvasfm. org) and clicking “Listen”. We also refer listeners to the “Tune In” radio app which Debbie Richardson, Congresswoman Terri Sewell, Candy and guest is free and allows them to take WVAS with them anywhere This conversion also allowed us to “split” in the world. our signal; as a result, we now have three “stations” at the same 90.7 frequency Our website is another technological as opposed to just one. WVAS HD1, boost for us. We can post our local news our primary channel, is home to our stories on the site, which also has a jazz format, as well as our blues, gospel national and international news feed from news, and public affairs; this channel NPR. We are currently working on adding can be heard on both analog as well as podcasts to the site, as well as photos and digital receivers. WVAS HD2, “Bama video to accompany our news and events State Radio”, features a “clean” hip-hop postings. and R&B format; when possible, we have BOOM!: Favorite vacation spot? Any students produce its programming for us. travel dreams planned for the future? WVAS HD3, “ASU Radio”, features a classic R&B and gospel format. The latter two Candy: My favorite vacation spot is my channels can only be picked up on digital hometown of New Orleans. Food is a (HD) radios which are found in most new religion in NOLA, and I’m one of its best cars and in many homes these days. All disciples whenever I go home. I also love of the channels can be heard via our
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the French Quarter, the Mississippi River, the parks, and the festivals, especially the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. There’s never any shortage of food and fun in NOLA. My parents made sure that we were well-travelled throughout my father’s Army career. While stationed in Germany, we toured Sweden, Switzerland, and Denmark. But, as a child, you’re not really paying attention to these extraordinary opportunities nor are you truly appreciative of just where you are at the moment. For that reason, I would love to return to Europe to re-visit these places, as well as others like France and Spain. But Italy is my number one goal…Tuscany is calling. BOOM!: What are you most passionate about? Candy: I have learned to be passionate about gratitude. I have learned to remind myself every day that God has made each and every one of my days possible… that tomorrow is not promised to anyone… that you or those you care deeply about could be here one day and gone tomorrow… that the full use of your faculties, senses and limbs when you wake up each morning is a gift. I have taught myself to say “thank you” each day when I wake up, each time I successfully
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face a challenge, and each night when I go to bed.
always been a generous donor to many causes. Daddy is the kind of person who never met a person he didn’t like; you have to prove to him that you are unworthy of his trust. There have been many occasions when my mother stepped in to prevent my dad from being fleeced by smooth-talking folks who just wanted to part him from his money.
BOOM!: How do you like to relax and wind down?
BOOM!: There is a lot of change going Candy: I love on in Montgomery, especially in the to read. My downtown area, how would you rate the “NPR Presents Michel Martin” planning event at Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Montgomery Bus Boycott. mother was quality of life in the River Region? What From left to right: Octavius Combs, former WVAS assistant production technia teacher, do we need more of? cian; Reletta McGhee, former WVAS coordinator of community and public affairs; and we were Felicia Taylor, WVAS underwriting consultant; Tony Bol, Senior Producer of NPR given books Candy: When I first returned to Presents; Candy; Jay Holcey, WVAS Music Director at a very early Montgomery from California in 2001, results from our annual “Zoobilation”, the age. I also love I went to work in the Community largest fundraiser each year; proceeds classic movies; there is no such thing as Development Office of the City of from this event have moved us closer to too many viewings of “Casablanca” and Montgomery. Our late boss, Ken Groves, constructing the next big attraction at the “It’s a Wonderful Life”. I also love a good used to say that it wasn’t that people in Zoo – “Stingray Bay”. I’m also a board comedy, whether in the movies or on TV, Montgomery had low expectations when member with SAYNO, an organization especially when the writing is brilliant. it came to change in Montgomery… it was that is doing important work with “Soap”, “Will and Grace”, “Golden Girls” that they had NO expectations. I have respect to keeping our kids away from and “Black-ish” are some of my favorites. personally seen the City of Montgomery the dangers of drugs and other addictive It’s great to be able to just laugh at the come a long way since then and I believe substances. Other boards on which I have end of a long day. that we are on the right track. The River enjoyed serving are the Arts Council of Region is a great place in which to raise Montgomery, and the Minority Business BOOM!: With a busy schedule managing a family. With respect to downtown Task Force of the Montgomery Area WVAS, you still have time to serve as Montgomery, the addition of restaurants, Chamber of Commerce. Each of these president of the board of directors for The the Riverwalk Amphitheater, the Biscuits, groups makes great Mid-Alabama Coalition for the Homeless the Harriott II, contributions to our and other organizations. Would you and so much community, whether explain your role in these organizations more means that in the area of arts and the importance of serving others in the sidewalks no for young people or our community? longer roll up at 5 support for womenp.m. when people or minority-owned Candy: The Mid-Alabama Coalition for go home from businesses. Any time the Homeless (MACH) is an umbrella work. Naturally, there’s an opportunity organization that provides funding I believe that to share whatever to many of the agencies assisting the we could use a knowledge, skills, or homeless in our region. This population great jazz club time that I may have, I is one of the most vulnerable in our downtown… but want to be able to give community; those who do this work what else would when and what I can. each and every day are some of the you expect from most unselfish people in the world. It me? The desire to give and was a privilege to be asked to serve serve was instilled in on the Board of Directors, and serving BOOM!: As you’ve all of us by our parents. as this year’s president is an honor. I aged, how have My mother was a have also truly enjoyed my time on your priorities volunteer with the Red the Montgomery Zoological Board in changed? Cross, the Brownies, Candy in costume for WVAS-FM’s annual support of one of the best zoos in this Halloween Spooktacular the Girl Scouts, the country. The joy that the Montgomery Candy: As I stated PTA and many other groups while we Zoo is able to bring to children of all earlier, I have learned to make gratitude were growing up. My father served on ages and their families is a great thing to a high priority. I also place a high priority Red Cross and church boards, and he has see. It’s also been gratifying to see the on taking care of myself… trying to eat
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more organic and less chemically-laced foods, exercising, and getting rest. I have also really pared down on material items, especially in my house. It’s amazing how you can learn to get rid of items that you never use and to figure out just what you can live without. BOOM!: Give us three words that describe you? Candy: Funny, caring, and intelligent BOOM!: Many Boomers are experiencing a renewed sense of purpose, new goals, new careers…How would you describe this sense of renewal in your life? Any advice for the rest of us seeking renewal? Candy: I am laughing at myself right now because I am on the brink of opening a new business in Montgomery. To the few people with whom I’ve consulted about this business, I ask the same question: Who does this? At a time when I should be looking forward to moving toward retirement, sitting down and enjoying myself, and doing some traveling… I’ve come up with something else to do. I blame this on my daddy. He always said that he wanted to “die with his boots on” … I don’t’ remember a time when he wasn’t involved in something until age and health just finally kept him from getting out there. So I guess I’ll keep on putting one foot in front of the other until I just can’t move anymore. BOOM!: Radio has so many competitors today with streaming, podcasts, talk…
what do you think the future of radio will look like? How will you engage students?
when advancement opportunities come their way.
Candy: All of the research today shows that radio continues to be a major player in people’s lives every day, and that’s for the young and old alike. For instance, in many retail aspects, it’s a major driver… often accompanying the purchaser right up until the time of sale.
BOOM!: Your father is a centenarian, a rare age for most of us…can you describe what impact that has had on your life?
In public radio, we know that we will remain relevant as long as we continue to reflect the needs, thoughts, priorities and wishes of our respective communities. We have to remain engaged and remain committed to staying a vital part of our community each and every day because so many of those local voices are disappearing. And, rather than fear new technology, we must embrace it and make the best use of it… adding it to what we already do in an excellent way. We do, and will continue to do so, engage our ASU students every day through intern and practicum opportunities that are a part of the curriculum of the Communications program at the institution. We also made the conscious decision to dedicate our HD2 channel, when it became available, to our students to provide them with an outlet for their voices and their music. We make sure that they accompany our reporters as we bring community stories to life so that they understand the value of what we do each day. And we hire them whenever possible, often giving them their first paid experience in radio so that they have the credentials to move up the career path
Candy: God willing, my dad will be 101 years old on November 12th. Both of our parents instilled in us that there was nothing we can’t do in this world. Even in a time when opportunities for AfricanAmericans were often challenged, they never subscribed to the idea that we were limited in our options. My father has also taught me that age is just a number… that laughter is the best medicine… and that you never, ever stop moving. We want to thank Candy for sharing her story with us and making us comfortable at the WVAS studio. If you have questions or comments for Candy, you can email her at ccjasia@gmail.com As always, thanks to Kim Bethea, the award winning photographer from Total Image Portraits for her professional cover photo of Candy. If you have questions, comments or suggestions about our cover profiles, including nominating someone, please send them to jim@riverregionboom.com
Cover Profile Suggestions If you would like to nominate someone to be a BOOM! Cover Profile please share at jim@riverregionboom.com
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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
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Bicycling Alabama’s Chief Ladiga and Georgia’s Silver Comet Trails The Chief Ladiga Bike Trail begins in Anniston. But I chose to depart from Jacksonville because I was visiting relatives there. My original goal was to bike 75 miles from Jacksonville to Hiram, Georgia west of Atlanta, spend the night in a hotel and return the next day via the same route. That was pretty ambitious given the fact that, prior to this adventure, I had not ridden a bike in fifty years.
By Jeff S. Barganier
I purchased a nice one from the helpful folks at Bell Road Cycle in Montgomery two weeks before my departure and trained on it in the mornings before work, biking 8 to 10 miles every other day, and getting used to the bike. The day before my trek, I took a practice run 7.5 miles up the trail and back for a round-trip of 15 miles. No sweat. The weather man forecasted 100 degrees. I left at 5:30 AM to take advantage of the cool morning hours. Traveling light, I took only the clothes on my body plus a few extra items stuffed in a backpack: sunscreen, a can of sardines, a pack of saltine crackers, spare water, a change of clothes, two candy bars, some Ibuprofen and my cell phone. After less than a mile, I decided to ditch the pack. I figured I would be able to find plenty of food along the route if I got really hungry and I already had two bottles of water in special holders attached to the bike. I returned to the
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Jeff on his new bike from Bell Road Cycle
house and hung the backpack on a gate under the carport. I stuck the candy bars in one of the deluxe zip-pockets of my authentic biking pants. Thinking my cell
phone was in the other deluxe pocket, I set out again. At that early hour the trail was quite deserted, cool and serene. I had almost run over a ground hog during my previous day’s practice run, but I encountered only squirrels and rabbits this June morning and, for the most part, they stayed out of my way. At about 10 miles, I paused to remove a twig from my spokes. I reached for my phone out of habit and realized it was missing. My first thought was that I might have dropped it at an earlier rest stop several miles back. Zooming back to that site as fast as my legs would take me, I was dismayed to find no phone. If my wife couldn’t reach me, she’d activate the National Guard to find me. I continued on to the house and found my phone in the backpack. Round trip: 20 miles. Fairly winded, I started out a third time, two hours behind schedule. The first little town after Jacksonville is Piedmont, 12 miles north. It’s a small, pleasant community and provides restrooms for bikers right off the trail. That was a nice surprise. At Piedmont, the trail continues east toward Georgia and gets scenic, crossing quaint creeks with mountain views to the south. As I approached the Georgia line, the trail seemed to be slightly steeper but the lush forests and mountainy terrain made that part of the trail a highlight. I paused for a
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much needed water break and stretch at the Georgia line. There are picnic tables there and a can for disposing of trash. Nearby, cows grazed in a fenced pasture. The trail changes from asphalt to concrete, widens by a few feet and becomes the Silver Comet Trail. My brother, who has traversed the entire trail from Anniston to Smyrna, Georgia, began to text warnings about weather conditions ahead of me. I checked my weather app and, sure enough, a strong storm was rapidly approaching the Cedartown, Georgia area from the north. Cedartown was my next stop. Well into Georgia, I noticed storm shelters every few miles on the left side of the trail. As the sky filled with clouds, I contemplated the possibility that I might, indeed, need shelter, but chose to bike on. When I finally rolled into Cedartown I was so exhausted from roughly 60 miles on the trail—I had added about 24 miles to my trip going back and forth from the house that morning—that I scarcely realized I had made it that far.
absolutely refused to budge until I was safely across the street. The welcome center was closed; so, I rested outside on a bench and hastily checked the Internet for hotels. The storm was pretty vocal at that point. Still no rain. I clicked on the first hotel that came up and typed in the address on my map application for directions. The nice virtual-lady giving me directions sent me on a two-mile escapade through Cedartown to a vacant lot in a notso-cool area, saying, “your destination is on the right.” Amidst the thunder, exhausted and hungry, I decided to ask a real human. I pulled a hill back to Main Street and turned left. I asked the first kind person I came upon where a decent hotel was. “Straight ahead on the left. A Quality Inn. About a mile,” he said.
The first Cedartown landmark I encountered was the old Depot Welcome Center. It was about 1:00 PM Georgia time. I stopped heavy traffic in both directions at the crosswalk on Main Street. The courteous Cedartown drivers
It was 1.7 miles. I was within twenty feet of the door when the bottom fell out. Minutes later hail was falling. But I didn’t care. They had a vacancy. The lady at the desk was wonderfully hospitable. Not only did she give me “the biker rate,” but she escorted me to
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a clean, comfortable room, opened the door, helped me get my bike in the room and handed me the key with a smile. I ordered a medium pizza and a bottle of Sprite from Dominoes, took a long, hot shower, and then relaxed in a chair by the bed and watched the crashing rain outside my window. My pizza arrived hot. I savored every bite. Falling asleep was tough. I was major tired and sore. The Ibuprofen was in the backpack. Later, the rain subsided. At 9:00 Georgia time, the sky turned pink and fireflies blinked at me from the dusk. Next morning, I ate a hardy breakfast— part of the deal at the hotel—and was back on the trail heading west by 7:30 AM CST. The storm had cooled the planet. Heavy clouds blocked the scorching sun. I made excellent time, arriving back at the house at 11:30 AM Alabama time. (It’s 37.6 miles from Cedartown to Jacksonville.) All in all, it was great fun. It’s not for sissies but there were all ages biking along these trails—some speedsters and some poke-a-longs. You shouldn’t be intimidated if you’re in good health and fairly active. But I recommend you don’t do it alone. Plan carefully. Make lodging reservations in advance and know where your hotel is. Use a soft bike seat. And, whatever you do, don’t forget your cell phone! For more information, see: silvercometmap.com/chief-ladiga-trail-map chiefladigatrail.com traillink.com/trail/chief-ladiga-trail.aspx bikesilvercomet.com
Jeff Barganier is a freelance writer. He manages Cindy E. Barganier Interiors in Pike Road, Alabama and travels extensively upon the slightest excuse for something interesting to write about. Jeff’s email is jeffbarganier@knology.net R ive r Re gio n Bo o m . co m
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Ask an Elder Law Attorney By: Raley L. Wiggins | Attorney at Law | Red Oak Legal, PC
Losing Your Marbles: Competency Issues for the Elderly In the eyes of the law, mental competency is a complex issue. Particularly among the elderly, it is unusual for someone to simply lose their ability to manage their own affairs overnight. It is much more common for one’s memory to slip gradually over time. But, when does memory loss cease being old-age “forgetfulness” and start becoming legal incompetence? As a lawyer, when I am asked whether an individual has legal mental capacity, my first question is always: “Capacity to do what?” To begin with, the law generally presumes that every adult has mental capacity, until proven otherwise. In addition, in the eyes of the law, the level of understanding and mental acuity needed to engage in a given transaction depends substantially on what the transaction is. At the high end of the spectrum is the capacity required to execute a binding contract. To execute a contract, one must have the ability to “understand and comprehend” their actions. A court will not find a contract to be void based upon the signer’s lack of mental capacity unless you can show that they had “no reasonable perception or understanding of the nature and terms of the contract.” At the opposite end of the spectrum is the capacity required to sign a last will and testament. This is a very low standard, which requires only that the person signing the will to be able to recall the property to be disposed of by the will, how it will be generally be divided, and the people they want to receive the property. So, a person may lack the legal mental capacity to sign a binding contract, but still have sufficient mind and memory to execute a valid last will and testament. Each case must be evaluated individually. But, what do you do if you suspect that a loved one is slipping to the point where they can no longer manage their own affairs? There are a couple of options.
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The first and best option is to manage that person’s affairs under a power of attorney executed by the loved one, while they were competent. Of course, once a person’s mental ability has begun to decline, it may be too late to sign a power
a petition is filed with the court stating why the individual needs a guardian and conservator to be appointed. The court will then appoint a lawyer for the allegedly incapacitated individual to protect their rights, as well as a court representative and a physician to examine the individual and Estate Planning and Asset Protection Workshop their living conditions, Wednesday, August Hosted by Red Legal, 1:30-3:30 July 22:31: Hosted by Red OakOak Legal, PC:PC: 1:30-3:30 pm and to submit pm at the Archibald Senior Center (MACOA) in Montgomery. at the Archibald Senior Center (MACOA) in Montgomery. ThisThis a report to the educational workshop presented by local attorney Raley L. Wiggins court. Finally, covers wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance directives, living the court will conduct a wills, probate administration, protecting assets from creditors, hearing, and bankruptcy, divorce and remarriage, nursing homes, long-term care either grant and Medicaid qualification. Registration is required. or deny the Call 334-625-6774 today to reserve your seat or register online at petition. www.redoaklegalpc.com. Once appointed, the guardian and conservator of attorney because they lack sufficient are responsible for looking after the ability to understand and comprehend the individual, and will generally be required to document. However, if they are still able to report to the court from time to time. execute it, a well-drafted power of attorney will permit the agent (the person granted In many instances, the appointment of a power under the power of attorney) to guardian and conservator is appropriate. manage the business and financial affairs That said, it is a proceeding which can of the principal (the person who executed often be avoided by the execution of the document). Similarly, a well-drafted two relatively simple estate planning healthcare power of attorney or advance documents: a durable power of attorney, directive will allow an agent to make and an advance directive. healthcare and other decisions, even if the principal does not have the capacity to do If someone you love is beginning to so themselves. experience some decline in the mental But, what if the individual does not have sharpness, there may still be time to have these simple documents created while they a power of attorney or advance directive? In that case, the only option may be to have sufficient mind and memory to do so. ask the local probate court to appoint a Taking care of this now can avoid a costly court proceeding later. While you’re at it, guardian and conservator. A guardian (similar to the guardian of a minor child) is what about your own planning—do you tasked with looking after the individual’s have these simple documents? well-being, consenting to medical care, As we often say in our business, there’s and determining where they live, among no time like the present. So, what are you other things. A conservator is responsible waiting for? for handling the individual’s money and property.
Attend Free Workshop
Asking a court to appoint a guardian and conservator takes time, and can be expensive. To initiate the proceeding,
Raley L. Wiggins Attorney at Law, Red Oak Legal, PC 334-239-3625 | info@redoaklegalpc.com 445 Dexter Avenue, ste 9000, Mont, AL 36104 www.redoaklegalpc.com
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Can your loved one still handle their own affairs?
Plan ahead . . . before you forget. FREE EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP
Estate Planning, Asset Protection & Medicaid Eligibility
CALL US OR REGISTER ONLINE TODAY!
Join local attorney Raley L. Wiggins to discuss wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance directives, living wills, probate administration, protecting your assets, bankruptcy, divorce & remarriage, nursing homes, long term care and Medicaid qualification.
Seats fill up quickly! Reserve your seat today:
(334) 625-6774 redoaklegalpc.com
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Discovering Your DNA Commercial websites make it easy to discover your ethnic roots, common ancestors and family migration routes, and connect with relatives.
determine whether you share a common paternal ancestor with another person alive today. Based on the number of genetic markers shared on the Ycs with another person, you can also estimate how many generations in the past your common paternal ancestor lived.
John received an online message from a fellow AncestryDNA (dna.ancestry. com) website user who turned out to be the second cousin once removed from his father. The cousin told him about an 1860 census for the family, and John and his family were able to discover other family members tracing back to a family in France. Two women who were adoptees used 23andMe (www.23andme.com), another genetic DNA website, to discover their genetic past. After Winnie took the DNA genealogy test, she was matched with a genetic relative who turned out to be her half nephew. Additional testing confirmed that his mother was Winnie’s half sister, and Winnie found herself with a new family. As an adoptee, Megan didn’t know anything about her biological parents or family history. Although she had assumed she was Hispanic, the reports of her DNA testing showed she is part Irish, part Scandinavian and part African, with some Native American ancestry as well. Blaine Betteringer, of the Genetic Genealogist (thegeneticgenealogist. com) , was able to find a second cousin, three times removed and still living, who shared stories about their common ancestors, a family of Irish immigrants, and particularly about Blaine’s grandfather’s generation’s 11 children. “Every one of these connections enriches our understanding of the past, and helps keep alive ancestors that live on only in their memories,” says Betteringer. Reasons to Take the Test In an effort to scientifically determine their ancestry, millions of people around the world have taken a genetic DNA test. The results of the test can be used to: I Find out if others with the same surname share a common ancestor.
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I Provide clues about your ethnic origin. I Find your historic country of origin. I Discover relatives you didn’t know existed. I Prove or disprove your family-tree research. I Show the migration routes of your paternal ancestors. I Find out to which of over 200 populations you are genetically most similar. I Discover what proportions of your ancestry come from the seven continental level groups, including African, Asian, European or Native American descent. The more people who take these tests and contribute their results to a larger database, the more family connections will be possible. Three Genetic Markers Most genetic DNA testing companies use a swab from your cheek that provides a sampling of your DNA, your unique genetic fingerprint. There are three genetic markers on your DNA that can provide clues to your ancestry: one from your father, another from your mother and a third from both sides of the family (info from https://familysearch.org). Y-DNA testing. Information stored in the Y chromosome (Ycs) is passed from father to son over centuries. Analysis of this genetic information can help
MTDNA testing. We inherit mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) exclusively from our mothers, and this marker follows an unbroken maternal line. It can help in verifying the existence of a common maternal ancestor or in studying the ancient origins of our maternal line. MtDNA lineages can be grouped together in a large mtDNA tree. Each branch of this tree may have a specific geographic distribution that might help someone locate their maternal line’s country or region of origin. Autosomal DNA testing. Autosomal DNA does not follow a clear and straight path of inheritance, like the Ycs and mtDNA. However, this information is helpful in identifying cousins within the last five generations or the ethnic origins of your family tree. Three Main Testing Services Because different people test with different companies, many of which maintain their own databases, you will achieve the greatest chance of useful matches by either being tested by or sharing your DNA results with as many companies as possible. Three testing services dominate the field: AncestryDNA (www.ancestry.com). A part of Ancestry.com, one of the original genealogy websites, AncestryDNA claims to have the world’s largest consumer DNA database, with more than 1.5
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million people. You can supplement your DNA tests with Ancestry.com’s billions of historical records and millions of family trees. The cost is $99 for a DNA test kit, which looks only for autosomal markers. Family Tree DNA (www.familytreedna. com). Unlike AncestryDNA, Family Tree does all three tests. The Y-DNA lets you join a surname project, and when paired with the mtDNA test, the results help you find recent and distant relatives on your father’s and mother’s side, confirm paternal and maternal relationships, and trace paternal and maternal ancestors’ migration routes. The tests also provide a list of people in its database who share a common direct ancestor with you: for paternal, going back 25 generations, or maternal, within 52 generations. Its autosomal test, Family Finder, helps you find and connect with recent relatives on both sides of the family within five generations and can also give you a breakdown of your ethnic makeup by percentage. Family Tree provides the names and emails of matches, an estimate of how closely related they are to you and any
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genealogical information they have uploaded. Sharing this information is optional. Costs for Family Tree range from $99 to $350, depending on the test and its depth. 23 and Me (www.23andme.com). 23 and Me claims to be the “only genetic service available directly to you that includes reports that meet FDA standards.” Unlike the other two services, it also tests for your health, so you can find out if you have a marker that will pass on a genetic trait to your children. To analyze your DNA, 23 and Me uses U.S. laboratories that are certified to meet the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) standards. You’ll receive more than 60 personalized genetic reports, including ancestry (using the autosomal test) and whether you are a “carrier” for a genetic variation for conditions including cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia. Wellness reports tell you how your DNA relates to your caffeine consumption, lactose digestion and your muscle type. Cost for its test is $199.
Other Resources Besides the three commercial websites that provide easy access to information about your DNA, there are free sites that offer lots of information about ancestry and DNA. International Society of Genetic Genealogists (http://isogg.org). Founded in 2005, the society’s mission is to educate about genetic genealogy and to offer a network for genealogists. It offers resources for beginners as well as a wiki for others to contribute information. World Families Network (www.worldfamilies. net). Check out this website to determine if a DNA project is underway for your surname. It provides free websites to display test results, family pedigrees and shared information, as well as forums for family discussions. Your Genetic Genealogist (www.yourgeneticgenealogist.com). This site is intended for the non-scientist and includes recommendations for DNA testing services and links to articles on the topic. The author is an independent professional genetic genealogist and television consultant currently working as the adviser for the PBS television series Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. FamilySearch (familysearch.org/wiki/en/ Hiring_a_DNA_Testing_Company). This Mormon site offers basic information about genetic DNA testing, as well as many links to other resources. Source, Blog posting provided by the Society of Certified Senior Advisors
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plan
1. Stay informed
2. Learn about basic injury and disease prevention 3. Look for the most current information on emergency preparedness 4. Create a family preparedness plan 5. Become familiar with the emergency plans of your community
prepare store essential items Water Food Can Opener First Aid Kit Flashlight
Radio Clothes Personal Care Items Important Documents
practice Practice and review your preparedness plan every six months Plan. prepare. practice.
http://www.adph.org
Zika virus is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of infected mosquitoes. These mosquitoes typically lay eggs in and near standing water in items such as buckets, bowls, animal dishes, flower pots and vases.
Avoid the Bite! You can help prevent the spread of Zika and other mosquito-borne diseases by preventing mosquito bites and breeding. For the most up-to-date information on Zika Virus and other mosquito-borne diseases in Alabama, visit www.adph.org/mosquito or call 1-800-252-1818.
Ask Nancy: Caring for Aging Relatives A “fiblet” may be the best response
Q: My mother has dementia and lives in an Assisted Living Facility. Nearly every time I visit with her she asks me many times when she will be going home. I’ve spoken with my friends who have parents with dementia who either live with them or who live in an Assisted Living Facility and they have the same experience with their parent. What do we say to them? _ Adrienne G. Plantation, FL. A: Your question brings up an important issue that many family caregivers face: what is the best way to communicate with a parent who has dementia or Alzheimer’s? No one wants to lie to a parent, but if a truthful response to a question asked over and over will cause emotional distress, is it better to reply in an incomplete manner, or ignore the question altogether? For professional advice, I turned to Rebecca Mandler, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in South Miami, who told me that “communicating with a person with dementia necessitates simple, direct and non-confrontational responses to questions.” “An honest response to this question might be along the lines of ‘when your doctor and the other people who care so much about you feel that it would be healthy and safe for you to return home.’ This is honest, factual, and provides the message that your mother is cared for and loved. I would not elaborate on the answer, and if or when the question is posed again, I would offer the same answer.” Still, there may be times when a family caregiver is at a loss as to how to respond to a parent’s persistent question when they know the response The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
will cause emotional pain or make them unnecessarily agitated. In these cases, many geriatric experts believe that telling a “fiblet” - aka “white lie” - can actually be therapeutic for someone who is cognitively impaired.
“A therapeutic fiblet is just that _ it is therapeutic because it calms and reassures, reduces anxiety and protects self-esteem,” said Emily Saltz, President of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers.
In a recent survey of professional geriatric care managers, more than 90 percent of respondents said they recommended this strategy to relieve stress and anxiety and protect the self-esteem of an elderly person. The situation cited most often as an appropriate and helpful use of a fiblet is when a senior is refusing clearly needed care or assistance at their home.
Telling a “fiblet” to a beloved parent can be uncomfortable and painful for family members. For guidance on dealing with these and other kinds of sensitive and challenging issues, I have always found the advice from experienced geriatric care managers to be very helpful.
“Telling an aging parent with Alzheimer’s that a paid caregiver is coming to their home for their spouse’s benefit, or for another concrete role, can help them maintain pride and reduce anxiety,” reported the caregivers in the survey, whose findings were summarized in their press release. (www.prweb.com/ releases/2014/05/prweb11815228.htm)
I also recommend reading “Caregiver’s Guide to Understanding Dementia Behaviors,” an article offered on the website of The Family Caregiving Alliance (www.caregiver.org/caregivers-guideunderstanding-dementia-behaviors). It provides ten tips for communicating with a person with dementia and how to handle repetitive questions. Nancy Stein, Ph.D., is the founder of Seniority Matters (senioritymatters.com), a caregiver advisory and referral service in South Florida for seniors and their families. You can contact her at nancy@senioritymatters.com. (c)2015, Seniority Matters, Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC
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Eating Smart with Tracy Bhalla
GMO Foods? What started GMO in the first place? Genetically Modified Organisms were first seriously considered in the 1970’s when scientists realized they could take desirable gene traits from one organism and transplant them into another. It wasn’t until the 1990’s that the first GMO food product was put on the market; Flavr-Savr tomatoes, developed in the early 1990s by Calgene, Inc. These tomatoes were engineered to suppress the polygalacturonase gene to delay how quickly they would soften after ripening. Flavr Savr Tomatoes could be picked riper and kept longer than other varieties. However, to select the DNA that suppressed the polygalacturonase gene in the tomato, the researchers used a second gene that enables bacteria to be resistant to the antibiotic kanamycin. Flavr Savr Tomatoes, then, expressed this bacterial kanamycin resistance gene. (For every positive there’s a negative, right?) In 1999 the Flavr-Savr Tomato was taken off the market after a UK scientist expressed concerns about the safety of GMO food. I’m sure you’re all aware of the antibiotic controversy that’s been going on in poultry and other meats – the animals have been pumped full of antibiotics from birth and so you then consume said antibiotics and become immune to their effectiveness. It’s estimated that thousands of human lives every year will be saved if all poultry and meat producers stop using antibiotics in their animals (and just look after them better instead!) We could be facing the same problem with the increased use of GMOs in food. The Flavr-Savr Tomato contained the gene that was resistant to the antibiotic kanamycin, so if you ate those tomatoes and then were admitted to hospital and needed antibiotics, kanamycin wouldn’t work for you – but by the time the Dr’s realize this it could be too late. You get the picture? There has only been one other GMO
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and why is Europe so against GMO (and the U.S. not)? Well, one of the concerns is that the GM genes can migrate into other crops; they have been found to cross-pollinate and contaminate neighboring non-GMO crops and once they’re out in the wild they cannot be recalled. It’s like letting a virus loose.
whole food since the tomato (so far); the Hawaiian Papaya, resistant to the ringspot virus that reduced Hawaii’s production by 40% in the 1990’s. They had a hard time exporting the GMO papayas however as by now most of the world was looking at GMO food with a wary eye. By the turn of this century, however, GMO seeds for industrial crops of corn, soy and cotton (cottonseed oil is used in processed foods,) were on the increase. In particular, processed foods that include GMOs have become major commodities over the past dozen years. In 2011, 160 million hectacres of GM crops were grown, 90% of which was in the US, Brazil, Argentina, India, and Canada. That’s more than 10% of global crop land. Approximately 82% of cotton, 75% of soybeans, 32% of corn, and 26% of canola are genetically engineered. While much of the GM crops go to animal feed and fuel, GMOs have now become common in the pre-packaged, processed groceries that the Western hemisphere and India favor for a “quick, easy” meal. Estimates are that about 70% of processed food sold in the US and 60% of processed food sold in Canada contains genetically modified plants, most from GM soybeans and corn. Any food product that contains high fructose corn syrup has a 90% chance of containing GMOs. In contrast, only about 5% of processed foods on European supermarket shelves contain GMOs. (I’d never heard of high fructose corn syrup before coming to live in the USA.) So, what are the concerns
Also GMO crops tend to use more pesticides than non-GMO, which of course has huge effects both on the environment (remember the bees!) and ourselves. Did you know that unless you carefully wash every single piece of fruit and vegetable that you eat, and wash it well, there will be levels of pesticides evident in your urine and in your bloodstream? Pesticides are toxic; do you really want to be eating them? The only people that will “assure” you of GMO safety are the people trying to sell it (like Monsanto). All other scientists are dubious because there has been no long term testing done, particularly on humans! Another issue here in the USA is labeling (we seem to keep coming back to that too, don’t we?!) In most of the developed world, including the entire EU, Japan, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, S. Korea, Russia and China have mandatory labeling of GMO foods. The USA does not. As usual the big companies (Monsanto, etc.) have been dragging it out in the courts for years all ready and will probably continue to do so for a long time yet. So until the people rise up and insist on being informed about what they are eating, the citizens of the USA will remain in the dark. Visit JustLabelIt.org to add your name to petition Congress for proper labeling of our food. Tracy Bhalla, Independent Consultant with NYR Organics, website: us.nyrorganic.com/shop/ tracybhalla email: nyrbhalla@gmail.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.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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Travel Trending with Kathy Witt
Cruising
America’s Inland Waterways Bourbon, blonde bombshells and behind-the-scenes tours of Mark Twain’s Hannibal hometown, cruises on America’s inland waterways and Great Lakes step up the fun factor this summer with themed voyages aboard several close-to-home cruise ships.
BOURBON AND WATER
The world’s largest steamboat, the grand and elegant American Queen, journeys from St. Louis to Cincinnati and the reverse on two nine-day themed itineraries: Bourbon (July 1018) and Presidents & Politics (July 17-25). Both excursions take passengers right into America’s heartland: St. Louis and Cape Girardeau, MO; Paducah, Brandenburg and Louisville, KY; and Cincinnati, Ohio.
THE MIGHTY MISSISSIPPI
It’s bourbon, presidents and politics as the American Queen steams through America’s heartland this summer.
On the former, you’ll dip into the history and culture of bourbon and bourbon making with noted experts: Maker’s Mark’s legendary master distiller Bill Samuels Jr., who crafted Maker’s 46; Donn Flinn of Buffalo Trace Distillery, the world’s most award-winning distillery; and Michael Veach, a leading authority on the history of bourbon and author of Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey: An American Heritage. Calls will be made at some of Kentucky Bourbon Country’s most famous bourbon distilleries for complimentary tours: Jim Beam Distillery at the Jim Beam American Stillhouse, Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center, Willett Distillery and Wild Turkey. Of course, several are located in the Bourbon Capital of the World, Bardstown, KY.
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Coinciding with the GOP Convention is American Queen’s Presidents & Politics cruise, featuring onboard presentations, including a “Presidential Press Conference with Mr. Lincoln,” “The Laughter of Politics,” “Presidents Who Changed the Office” and “Presidency and the Media,” among others. Special onboard guests include Dr. Michael Nelson, historian and author of more than 25 books on the presidency, elections, southern politics and other topics; George Buss, a sixth generation Illinoisan who has interpreted Abraham Lincoln for a quarter century and to critical acclaim; and Mark Russell, who offers humorous commentary on topical political news.
American Cruise Lines voyages into Mark Twain Country with its tribute cruises to American’s foremost humorist and author. Departing from St. Louis, authentic paddle wheelers Queen of the Mississippi or America, ACL’s newest, which sailed her maiden voyage in May, 2016, will visit upper Mississippi towns, including Hannibal, MO; Davenport, Dubuque and La Crosse, Iowa; and Red Wing and St. Paul, MN.
“The Mississippi River towns are comely, clean, well built, and pleasing to the eye, and cheering to the spirit,” Twain wrote in Life on the Mississippi. “The Mississippi Valley is as reposeful as a dreamland, nothing worldly about it . . . nothing to hang a fret or a worry upon.” So relax with a copy of Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn as you glide along a picturesque shoreline, cosseted in the elegant comfort of the vessels’ Victorian-style decor. The highlight of this trip? An exclusive behindthe-scenes tour of the town where Twain lived from age four to 17 that includes the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum and the Becky Thatcher House. Departure dates for this cruise are July 16, 23 and 30, Aug. 27, Sept. 3 and 24 and Oct. 1 and 8. The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Laze on the Sun Deck aboard an American Cruise Lines paddlewheeler, copy of a Mark Twain classic in hand.
JAZZED ABOUT NOSTALGIA
It is fitting that two of Un-Cruise Adventures’ music-themed cruises take place on its replica 1900’s coastal steamer, the SS Legacy. Resplendent with Old World charm and turn-ofthe-century decor, this modern small ship is both elegant and casual, and the perfect backdrop for summer jazz and 1940’s-style music cruises on the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Headlining the July 23 departure is Josephine “Josie” Howell. With vocal talents ranging from jazz to R&B, Howell is considered one of the best female vocalists in the Pacific Northwest and was runner-up in the Seattle Stars singing competition. Accompanying Howell will be Paul Richardson, noted keyboard player who has performed with such pop and jazz stars as Herbie Hancock, The Headhunters and Blood, Sweat and Tears, among many others. On July 30, “America’s Bombshell Duo,” Erinn Diaz and Amanda Newman of the group Letters From Home, brings the 1940s to the SS Legacy. Known for their comedic and moving patriotic performances, the two entertainers combine beautiful harmonies, brilliantly choreographed tap dancing and audience interaction in their shows. Both have impressive resumes. Diaz is a national tap dance champion and published author who has worked on over 250 theatrical productions nationwide and been in several TV shows and movies. Newman is a dancer who has competed nationally, a choreographer and dance teacher who has performed for a number of theatres and dance companies.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
“America’s Bombshell Duo,” Erinn Diaz and Amanda Newman, bring their patriotic show to Un-Cruise Adventures this summer.
GREAT LAKES MAGIC
Blount Small Ship Adventures has three eight-night Magical Lake Michigan voyages that live up to the name with visits to these enchanting ports in Michigan and Wisconsin: Holland, its Dutch heritage reflected in an authentic 275-year-old working windmill and cobblestone sidewalks; Beaver Island with its scenic beaches; Mackinac Island with its movie set good looks, proliferation of fudge shops and horse-drawn carriages and Grand Hotel lined with 100 rocking chairs; Sturgeon Bay, a coastal idyll marked by lighthouses and charming downtown; and lively Milwaukee, where you can hoist a craft beer from one of many brewpubs. Cruising from Chicago’s bustling Navy Pier, the park’s iconic Ferris wheel looming large against the skyline, departures take place on July 14, July 23 and August 1. Likened to sailing aboard a friend’s yacht, onboard life is personalized and relaxed, with family-style meals, a welcome BYOB policy (Blount provides mixers) and casual evening gatherings.
PLANNING YOUR TRAVELS
S American Cruise Lines, www. AmericanCruiseLines.com, 800-4604518. The largest U.S. cruise company and operator of the newest fleet of small cruise ships and riverboats in the United States, American Cruise Line offers more than 35 itineraries, from four to 21 nights, to the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, New England, the Southeast and the entire Mississippi River system. Daily lectures, ranging from history and ecology to culture and cuisine, plus complimentary evening cocktail hour and wine and beer with lunch and dinner are part of the fun.
See Mark Twain’s Hannibal aboard an American Cruise Lines tribute cruise this summer.
S American Queen Steamboat Company, www. AmericanQueenSteamboatCompany. com, 888-749-5280. Cruise fare includes complimentary hop-on/hop-off shore excursions in each port of call, a deluxe hotel stay the night before your voyage and transfers to the American Queen, all onboard meals, 24-hour room service, complimentary wine and beer with dinner and specialty coffees, tea, bottled water and soft drinks throughout, daily lectures by the onboard Riverlorian historian and more. S Blount Small Ship Adventures, www. BlountSmallShipAdventures.com, 800-556-7450. Fare includes including complimentary house wine and beer with lunch and dinner and entertainment like glass bottom boat tours, snorkeling excursions and performances by local musicians, storytellers and area experts. Three Magical Lake Michigan departures are offered this summer, each with a discount: 20 percent off per person, July 14; 30 percent off per person, July 23rd; and 20 percent off per person, August 1. NOTE: These offers expire July 15, 2016. S Un-Cruise Adventures, www.UnCruise.com, 888-862-8881. Celebrating 20 years of small ship cruise adventures in 2016, this line offers off-the-beatenpath explorations: small-group upclose discoveries, unspoiled natur al wonders, insightful cultural encounters. Anniversary special: Save $300 per couple ($150/person) on NEW bookings for travel now through November 19, 2016. Valid on new reservations made by July 1, 2016; call for details and offer code. Author, travel and lifestyle writer, and travel goods expert Kathy Witt feels you should never get to the end of your bucket list; there’s just too much to see and do in the world. She can be reached at KathyWitt24@gmail.com or KathyWitt.com. (c)2016 Kathy Witt Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC R ive r Re gio n Bo o m . co m
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July Featured Artists
Red Dirt Road, 24 x 48 acrylic on canvas, Shirley Esco galleryonefineart.com/Shirley-Esco LaBamba: Distant Music 36 x 36 oil on canvas, Carol Barksdale galleryonefineart.com/Carol-Barksdale
Visby Sweden 20 x 16 oil on canvas, Anita Westerberg galleryonefineart.com/Anita-Westerberg
Sunflowers in Glass Pitcher 28 x 22 oil on canvas, Anne Hugghins galleryonefineart.com/Anne-Hugghins
Lively Spirits 30 x 24 mixed media, Cecily Hulett galleryonefineart.com/Cecily-Hulett
Wicker Chair 36 x 36 oil on canvas, John Wagnon galleryonefineart.com/John-Wagnon
Red Bird with Sunflower 14 x 11 mixed media, Sharon Yavis galleryonefineart.com/Sharon-Yavis
Moon Series: Starry 5.5 x15 copper sculpture, Bradley Moon galleryonefineart.com/Bradley-Moon Alert Pup with White Toes 16 x 12 mixedmedia, Wendy Slaton galleryonefineart.com/Wendy-Slaton
On the Green, 28 x 22 oil on canvas Pamela Wesley Copeland galleryonefineart.com/Pamela-WesleyCopeland
Gallery One offers a wide selection of original art by gallery artist members. As an Alabama not-for-profit cooperative gallery, Gallery One is actively engaged in the community. Gallery Director Sandi Aplin, sandiaplin@aol.com galleryonefineart.com Stone Bowl 8 x 11 x 1, marble, Ken Lever galleryonefineart.com/Kenneth-Lever
Declaration 24 x 36 acrylic on canvas, Jane Segrest galleryonefineart.com/Jane-Segrest
By Sandi Aplin
Art & Soul
GALLERY ONE presents Art and Fashion CARLISLE NEW YORK-CARLISLE CASHMERE-PER SE COLLECTION We are so excited about our 15TH Trunk Show with Carlisle Collection New York. The Fall Collection will arrive here at Gallery One Fine Art beginning July 22nd and remain through July 30th. The collection is shown by appointment and we try to give our customers at least an hour to make their selections and process their orders. The beautiful blouse selected for our invitation is from Carlisle Collection Park Avenue and is called Illusion. With colors of Mulberry, Black and Paris Pink, it is a go-to piece in the closet. The soft bow tie adds a feminine touch to our graphic blouse in silk satin chiffon. Semi-fitted, shaped with side seams, back shoulder yoke and the inverted back pleat is all so comfortable. It also has a shirt collar, button front, long sleeves with convertible black button cuffs. This 100% silk blouse is finished with topstitch detail. Carlisle New York celebrates the style, strength and cosmopolitan spirit of confident, busy women everywhere. Women wearing Carlisle feel style still matters, we invite our customers to feel extraordinary with our handcrafted artisanal designs. Our casual to cocktail look is available in sizes 0 to 18. Carlisle Cashmere is wonderful! We will have eight sweater sets of four (32 pieces) in this collection. The colors are Icicle, Cool Blue, Oxford Grey, Charcoal, Milano Red, Paris Pink, CafĂŠ and Key Lime all 97 to 100% Cashmere and beautiful. Sandi Aplin, Director of Gallery One Fine Art sandiaplin@aol.com or galleryonefineart.com
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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By Greg Budell
The Mayor of BOOMTOWN
THE UNITED STATES OF BRAD You’ll forgive my lack of enthusiasm for the 4th of July this year. I find it disheartening when only 1 in 3 people - on a college campus - can name the country from which we declared our independence. Europe? Canada? Mexico? (Remains to be seen) If you think that’s bad, Google the video about “who won the Civil War?”, England gets a lot of credit in that campus query. 25 years ago the US drove back the invasion of tiny Kuwait by the bullies of Saddam Hussein’s Iraq. A patriotic groundswell built around the USA’s strength and ability to keep a small country free of tyranny. Today, our president looks the other way while the USA is invaded by, well… anyone who can walk across the border. We don’t know who they are or what their intentions might be. They are armed with only the canons of political correctness so rather than turn them back - as we did for Kuwait - we welcome them in and hand them the key to our Treasury. The very US Veterans who risked life and limb in Kuwait wait months for health care to treat their injuries, while invading “refugees” are handed Medicaid cards which offer immediate service and full payment for services rendered.
How is this happening? Why are we condoning it with silence? We were taught civics at John Hancock Elementary in Chicago, and were required to pass a test on the subject to advance to 7th grade. It really wasn’t hard. I doubt anyone in my class struggled to answer the Independence Day question the way college students do today. Had one of my classmates said the US freed itself from France, they’d still be finishing 6th grade. American businesses are exploiting the Great American Nitwittery, or as my Newstallk 93.1 FM afternoon partner Joey Clark calls them - the Nincompoopery. I cringe watching TV. Some company begins their ad, populated by cool but clueless millennials, by announcing “you have a right to the Internet”. Really? I have a right to find a job and pay for internet service, but as of now, I don’t have a right to a job or the Internet. Entitlement thinking has run amok. During the Obamacare debate - which we ALL lost - healthcare was deemed a right, and talking heads wrung their hands wondering how the Supreme Court would “interpret” the Constitution. Interpret what? It is written in plain English! It is not carved into the
interior of a pyramid in hieroglyphics. Forcing American citizens to purchase a product cannot be found anywhere in the Constitution. While telling the Nincompoopery that Obamacare was not a tax, lawyers for the Obama Administration argued to the Supremes that they had to sanction it because it fell within the taxing powers granted Congress and by one vote the court agreed. When all else fails, lie. During that horrible period, the argument was made (Hello Nitwittery) that citizens were compelled to purchase insurance to drive a car. When we were taking Drivers Education in high school, our instructor, Mr. McGhee reminded us all that driving was a PRIVILEGE granted by the state - NOT A RIGHT - as many in the Dimwittery (*new group) believe. The Statue of Liberty - an American icon - is being used (and ABUSED) in TV ads aired by an auto insurance company which targets our swelling population of nitwits, nincompoops and dimwits. One, in particular, makes my fillings ache. It features a young couple, Lady Liberty in the background, bitching because they paid their car insurer monthly premiums for 10 whole years while compiling a “perfect” driving record. The guy in the TV spot then admits he “clipped a food
Greg Budell's column is proudly sponsored by McDonald, Barranco & Hagen Wealth Management
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
truck”, and proceeds to whine that the insurance company raised his rates. “What did my perfect record get me?” asks the Nincompoop. “Nothing!” says his stupidity-enabling wife. They both face the camera and say “perfect!” in unison. The Nitwittery sees this on TV and says, “wow man, that dude got screwed! I’m gonna use them for my car insurance”. So the heroic insurance company - using OUR Statue of Liberty as a marketing tool - sends a completely ignorant message to completely ignorant people.
The Business Mini Directory
A Business Mini is a little fatter than your old business card and for a limited time we’re offering a Business Mini to fit your budget. Fifty dollars will get your business message in front of thousands of people over 50 who have the money to buy stuff. Every business needs one more customer, where will yours come from? Call today and get your $50 Business Mini, 324.3472 or jim@riverregionboom.com
Let’s say The Perfect Couple paid $100 a month to their bad old company for 10 years, or about $12,000 and they got “nothing”. Meanwhile, the bad old insurance company bet they’d cover a major accident if they did something stupid like “clip a food truck”. So the company covered damage to the Perfect Couples car and the food truck. Let’s say the wreckage cost about 10 grand to fix. They paid Perfect Couple money to cover a rental car. The guy who owned the food truck called Alexander Shunnarah claiming injuries and the insurance company coughed up $50,000 to get him off their back. So, for 12K they got 60K of protection - and complain their rate got raised? Critical thinking is not part of our new American culture. Give the heroic new insurance company credit. They know who they’re marketing. I won’t get into the commercial in which a young lady talks about her car, which she named “Brad”. Personally I would cancel the policy of any driver who named their car “Brad”. In the spot, Little Miss Nincompoop admits to totaling Brad in a wreck, but quickly went into her “happy dance” when the company promised to replace Brad. Cold! I just don’t want her mad at me. The way things are going, she’s probably going to be President one day.
Greg Budell lives in Montgomery with his wife, children and dogs. 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 93.1, Greg can be reached at gregbudell@aol.com
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DATING Coach
How to overcome your fears about dating over 50
Here are four steps that can help you break though the fear and self-doubt you may be feeling about dating again at this time in your life. 1. TAKE A NO-EXCUSES APPROACH: Although, some call them “reasons,” you could be stopping yourself from finding Mr. Right by using excuses. Great guys are actually everywhere. But when you’re not sure what to do or how to handle the dating issues that come up. . . You make and use excuses that ultimately keep you from moving forward toward your dream of connecting with a quality man. Some of the biggest excuses I hear are: “There are no good men out there left to date,” “I’m too busy to date,” “No one will want me at my age,” or “All men are jerks.” And the list goes on. You may want to date and find a good man, but if you dig deeper . . . you’ll realize that it feels safer to stay single and not have to deal with someone else’s baggage so you use these excuses as your trap door, your escape route. To get the right guy into your life, you’ve got to be willing to let go of the excuses and get yourself online or out in the real world meeting men. This is the way you can find and connect with a man who is a good fit for you. Ask yourself: How badly do you want a companion in your life? You either have excuses or you have results. Which do you choose?
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
2. FEEL THE FEAR...BUT DO IT ANYWAY: Your ego creates fear to keep you safe. Just thinking about dating, you may have felt a fear of rejection, a fear of not being good enough, a fear of being humiliated,
If you allow yourself to feel the fears versus resisting the fear, what you might get instead is a great guy in your life. Imagine that. 3. BE WILLING TO GO OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE: Most of us avoid discomfort like it’s the plague. Yet it’s the best way to grow and get what you want in life. It can be scary but usually you only feel uncomfortable for a short period of time.
Most single women I know experience fear when it comes to dating after 50.
Here’s a great mantra that will help you: “I am ready to date. I am willing to find and meet new men even when I feel uncomfortable. I know uncomfortable equals growth and growth equals achieving my dreams of finding the man I want to share my life with.”
What separates the woman who gets the guy from the woman who allows her fears to hold her back is a willingness to date in spite of the fears she may be feeling.
4. TAKE DATING ACTION: It would be nice if you could just make a wish and Mr. Right would show up on your doorstep. Unfortunately, life doesn’t work that way.
The best way for you to get over your dating fears is to walk directly into them.
You will have to take some type of action to find him. Staying at home with your cat and your favorite TV show isn’t going to get you to the man you want.
a fear of making mistakes, a fear a man might not like you and fear of the unknown, just to name a few.
Let yourself feel them. Ask the fear what it’s trying to tell you. Then journal the answers you hear. It takes courage to do this, courage I see my private clients show every day when they put themselves in the vulnerable position of meeting and getting to know new men, even though they are shaking in their boots as they do it. Actually, walking into fear is never as bad as you think it’s going to be.
Getting online, smiling and flirting with men in the real world, asking your friends and families to keep their eyes open for a good guy, these are the surest ways of making your dreams of finding a good man come true. Lisa Copeland, “The Dating Coach Who Makes Dating Fun and Easier after 50!” Find out more at Findaqualityman.com (c)2016, Lisa Copeland, findaqualityman.com Distributed by MCT Information Services
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July 2016
{12 Things} for active boomers and beyond
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
Ageless Designs, New Hands Furniture by Henry Frazer Old Alabama Town, 301 Columbus Street Through August 19, Monday-Saturday 9:00 until 4:00 Henry has produced over 50 pieces of furniture, sometimes copying a favorite piece for himself and one for each of his two children. These exhibit pieces represent his evolving woodworking skills and attention to detail. He does not sell his work and continues to seek examples of period pieces that he thinks are worth being copied and come within his woodworking capabilities. For more info call 334.240.4512
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA GrandKids Bowl Free Bama Lanes, Montgomery Summertime
Bama Lanes Montgomery is doing a kids bowl free program, which includes 2 free games a day for any child that signs up with a purchase of rental shoes. There is also a family package that can be purchased for a reduced price for adult family members who wish to come out and bowl with us. Bama lanes recognizes how important family time is and wants to include the whole family. Just call Bama Lanes in Montgomery at 334.272.5423 and ask about our sign up sheet or come on in and see any of our helpful front desk people and they can sign you up.
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
Farmers Market The Shoppes at EastChase Saturdays, 7-Noon The Shoppes at EastChase 12th Annual Farmers Market opens this year with more vendors, cooking demonstrations and fitness options for adults and children throughout the summer and fall. Visit the Market every Saturday through October 22 rain or shine near Dillard’s for the freshest produce around. You will also find local art, pottery, bath products and more at this year’s Farmers Market! For more information about the The Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market, contact Suzanna Wasserman, Marketing Manager at 334.279.6046. theshoppesateastchase.com
WETUMPKA, ALABAMA
The Priscilla Crommelin: Her Life and Work The Kelly Art Gallery, Wetumpka Monday-Friday 8-4:30 pm The Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery in Wetumpka will open a new exhibition featuring a long-time Wetumpka resident’s artwork.
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The Priscilla Crommelin: Her Life and Work exhibition—composed of 69 works, 22 of which have never been exhibited before is now open through September 21, 2016. Her work includes vibrant landscapes, portraits, floral and still life paintings. The public is invited to an opening reception on June 28 from 5–7 pm. The Gallery is located on the second floor of the City of Wetumpka Administrative Building, 408 S. Main Street and is open Monday–Friday from 8 am to 4:30 pm. For more info vist thekelly.org
PINE MOUNTAIN, GEORGIA July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party Callaway Gardens Saturday, July 2nd-Monday July 4th
The celebration begins early and lasts well into the night at our annual July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party at Robin Lake Beach. Highlights include beach activities, Aqua Island, Paddle Boats, Flying Trapeze, Rock Climbing Wall, Spider Jump, Miniature Golf, Table Tennis, shuffleboard, Giant Checkers, Giant Chess, Xcelerator Water Slide, Roadster Pedal Karts, Chickadee Choo Choo Train; live music headlined by the Swingin’ Medallions, the FSU Flying High Circus and our annual Fireworks Extravaganza. Be sure to pack plenty of red, white and blue for this All-American Weekend! For more details visit callawaygardens.com
OPELIKA, ALABAMA
PGA TOUR’s Barbasol Championship RTJ GOLF TRAIL AT GRAND NATIONAL July 13-17
Grand National, by all reports, was the single greatest site for a golf complex Robert Trent Jones, Sr. had ever seen. Built on 600-acre Lake Saugahatchee, 32 of the 54 holes drape along its filigreed shores. Both the Links course and the Lake course were in the top 10 of Golf Digest’s list of “America’s Top 50 Affordable Courses” and all three courses at Grand National are listed among the nation’s 40 Super Value courses by Golf Digest’s “Places to Play”. Grand National is the host of the PGA TOUR’s Barbasol Championship this July. Experience the 2016 Barbasol Championship, played at RTJ at Grand National. Get tickets or sign up to be a volunteer at barbasolchampionship.com.
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
Oklahoma! Faulkner University Dinner Theatre July 14-16 Various times Enjoy dinner and a show! Faulkner University Dinner Theatre is The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Montgomery’s only dinner theatre and attracts patrons from both the university and the community. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Dinner Served 6:15-6:45 p.m. Show Starts at 7:30 p.m. Oklahoma! showing July 14-16, 21-23, 28-30, 2016. Thu., Jul. 14, 2016, 6:00PM - Sat., Jul. 16, 2016, 11:00PM. More Information on faulkner.edu. Theatre located at 5345 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery, AL 36109
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
Animal Enrichment Day The Montgomery Zoo Saturday, July 16, 10-2 pm From zoo animals to our pets at home and even including us, we all need enrichment. A chance to smell a new scent. Taste a new favor. Play a new game or figure out a puzzle. Enrichment is an effort to tap into and stimulate our basic five senses: touch, sight, smell, taste and hearing. The result is to stimulate behaviors resembling those for that species in the wild. It is a lot of trial and error, but it is always fun. For a schedule and more info visit montgomeryzoo.com
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
James Gregory, The Funniest Man in America MPAC Downtown Montgomery Thursday, July 21st,7:30 pm
For decades, the unforgettable caricature of veteran comedian James Gregory has stood grinning: his shirt untucked, his arms outstretched, a carefree welcome to a down-home, hilarious comedy experience. It’s storytelling at its best. The trademark caricature is the essence of humorist James Gregory’s comedy: rib-tickling reflections on life from the front porch. James creates an evening of nonstop laughter with a wry sense of the absurd, a Southern accent and universal story-telling. The ridiculous, the common and sometimes even the simplest events all become hilarious in the hands of this master storyteller and world-class comedian. For more info visit mpaconline.org
THE SHOALS, ALABAMA
W.C. Handy Music Festival The Shoals: Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield and Tuscambia Various Locations July 22 through July 31
The W.C. Handy Music Festival is a 10-day celebration inspired by the
“Father of the Blues” and the musical heritage of northwest Alabama. Over 200 events occur during the festival ranging from concerts to art exhibits and plays to athletic events. Music can be enjoyed in the local parks, stores, restaurants, churches and on the banks of the Tennessee River. Expect to hear everything from blues, jazz, gospel and soul to that distinctive Muscle Shoals sound. Events take place in the quad cities of Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield and Tuscumbia, known as The Shoals. wchandymusicfestival.org
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA Performance on the Green Blount Cultural Park, ASF Friday, July 29th, 7-10 pm
Performance on the Green is Montgomery Ballet’s annual gift to the city, its citizens and the Capitol City’s visitors during the month of July. Montgomery Ballet is proud to offer an evening of dance, entertainment, and culture by the professional ballet company and school, free to the public. In addition to the free performance, Montgomery Ballet will host its fundraising event, Picnic on the Green. Picnic on the Green is a delicious gourmet picnic supper that starts at 7:00pm. Dinners include VIP seating in our festival tent with a beautiful view of the stage and lake. RSVPs are required. Dinners are $30 a person. You may reserve a table for 8 for $240. The funds raised at the event will benefit Montgomery Ballet. Please call 334.409.0522 to reserve your seats. For more info visit montgomeryballet.org
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA Civil Rights Walking Tour Downtown Montgomery Saturdays and Sundays, 1:30 and 2:30
Come explore Montgomery’s History walking from different historical sties and engage in profound moments from Slavery, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement. This tour highlights pioneers and unsung heroes who contributed to a new era. Walking tours are held every Saturday and Sunday at 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm Tours start from The Village Gallery. Cost: Adults - $10; 12 & under - $5; 4 & under FREE. Book your tour by calling 334.595.9243. More Information on Website: facebook.com/Civil-Rights-Montgomery, The Village Gallery, 107 S. Court Street, Montgomery, AL 36104
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To Learn More About Your Fine Arts Museum Visit MMFA.org
Culture Up...New Exhibits @ MMFA Exhibit: Taking It to the Streets, July 16 through September 18, 2016 Trying to capture everyday life, street photographers find the beautiful, the poignant, and the poetic in the mundane. Giving life to our stories, these particular artists are witnesses, catching a moment as it unfolds and saving it for posterity. A practice dating back to the origins of photography itself, street photography epitomizes those photographers who take images in public places (often, but not always candidly) capturing their subjects in the midst of their daily business or documenting a place imbued with the presence of people even in their absence. Including images by pioneers of the genre including Walker Evans and Lewis Wickes Hines and more contemporary masters such as Ed Willis Barnett and Lynn Saville, Taking It to the Streets illustrates the wide range of street photography.
Exhibit: Women’s Work: Prints from the Collection of the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, July 2 through September 25, 2016
Walker Evans (American, 1903–1975), Sidewalk Scene, Selma, Alabama, December 1935, 1935, gelatin silver print on paper, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Association Purchase, 1994.7
While women have been practicing artists for millennia, they began to truly receive recognition as professional artists in the twentieth century. Select individuals attained success as painters or sculptors prior to the modern era, but it was only when the roles of women in the workplace began to expand that women saw increasing acceptance as artists outside of the domestic sphere. Women’s Work will showcase forty-two prints by twenty women artists from the Museum’s works on paper collection. These women produced etchings, lithography, screen prints and mixed-media work in a range of styles that reflect their times and their personal approaches to art. The artists represented will include the Alabamians Anne Goldthwaite and Clara Weaver Parrish from the earliest part of the century, to modern printmakers such as Jennifer Bartlett, Pat Steir, and Lesley Dill.
Exhibit: Photorealism, July 2 through September 25, 2016
Photorealist art represents the reality of the camera. Faith Ringgold (American, born 1930), To Be Photorealist or Not to Be Free, 2014, color lithograph on paper, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts paintings and Association Purchase, 2015.7 prints depict photographic images, typically of urban settings and consumer products and often in a banal manner that reflects the influence of movements such as Pop Art and Minimalism. The exhibition includes several very large prints by Audrey Flack, Ron Kleeman, and Tom Blackwell, as well as the City Scapes portfolio of 1979, which includes screen prints by John Baeder, Charles Bell, Arne Charles Besser, Thomas Leo Blackwell, Fran Bull, Hilo Chen, H. N. Han, Ronald Kleeman, Noel Anderson Mahaffey, and C. J. Yao. Four theatre marquees by Robert Cottingham will also be included.
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John Baeder (American, born 1938), Market Diner, 1979, from the portfolio, Cityscapes, screen print on paper, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Gift of Louis K. and Susan P. Meisel, 2014.5.8.1 The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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