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Sponsored by Vivian O'Nay
Ready to Dive into Summer Fashion On the opposite side of chasing around grandkids or heading to the spectrum, we have church services. been seeing a lot of bright colored versatile One out of the box trend which has matching blazer and made an appearance are “puffy” shorts sets (pictured) bags and shoes (pictured). This style which can take you reminds us of futuristic fashion. It’s from the office to date very durable in bags and comfortable night. These are great to wear in shoes. If you’re feeling because you can wear unsure about this style, one way to them all together for a ease into the trend is to grab a pair put together look, wear of shoes for the pool. We call them the blazer by “pillow itself with pixie slides” pants, or the which shorts alone started with with a dressy high end top. Anything fashion and Matching Blazer and Shorts Sets you can style has made it more than one way to act now into a as a capsule piece for your much more wardrobe will give you more Women of all ages have been sporting affordable bang for your buck! the latest athleisure options. Athleisure market. is a hybrid style which can take you Bold floral prints are the most from working out to any casual setting Did any popular trend for dresses we like running errands or spending time of these are seeing everywhere this with friends. The best part about it trends we Summer. This trend throws is that you don’t have to actually be mentioned Bold Floral Prints are the most popular trend inspire you us back to the seventies participating in any kind of athletic we are seeing this Summer. (pictured). We love seeing activity to sport this style. No one will to step out vintage know the difference! Yoga of the box styles making a pants, biker shorts, leggings, and try something new or remind you comeback with and forgiving tees all fit into of fashion trends from the past that modern day twists. this ‘athleisure’ category. you would like to give another go? Stop Most of these floral An easy way to try this style by and shop with us at Vivian O’Nay prints are in bright for all ages is by wearing to grab the next gift for a friend or let colors. You’ll be tennis style skirts and skorts us help you find the perfect option for turning heads and paired with tanks or teeyour next outing! getting compliments shirts. We have also seen We would love to hear back from you at the next wedding the comeback of the tennis on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ or shower you dress in 2022. The newest shopVivianONay/) or email (vivianonay@ attend in this style. trend for shorts this year gmail.com). Visit Vivian O'Nay and find We have also been are high waisted athletic your fashion sense, they're located at 3500 seeing the return options with a bold smocked Wetumpka Highway, Montgomery, AL. You can call 334.290.5268 or visit of the midi-dress. waistline. We love these www.vivianonay.com These are great because they keep your One out of the box trend which has for keeping things midriff covered and hold made an appearance are “puffy” bags and shoes modest while you in. The Alabama sun is shining, and we are ready to dive into Summer Fashion at Vivian O’Nay! The options are endless, and trends are ever changing. Whether you like to stick to the classics or branch out- we have something that suits every style!
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Contents
June 2022 Volume 12 Issue 12
You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”
Facebook.com/RiverRegionBoom C.S. Lewis
Thought Relationships Taste Inspiration
Humor Advice Health Community
“Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.”
Carl Bard
4 Ready to Dive into Summer Fashion from Vivian O'Nay 11 Beauty and the Brows Dr. Blake Raggio 12 Publisher's Column 16 GrandCamp 18 Take Your Dog to Work -Nick Thomas
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21 MANE’s 2022 Course for Hope
Features 30 Looking Back Doesn't Mean I'm Old, But I Thought It Might
36 Older Adults, the Automation of Everything
Departments 44 This and That A variety of TIDBITS
58 Greg Budell THE 35 CENT MIRACLE
38 Family Members May Want Your Stuff, Just Not the Stuff You Think
42 Travel Experiences with Jeff Barganier: Clarksville, Tennessee
Happy Father's Day!
22 Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake 25 Bob Corley's New Book 32 Poetry from a Reader 33 Capitol Sounds "50th Anniversary Concert” 34 Helping Widows/Widowers Susan Moore
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40 Gardening-SAFETY BEAR By Darwin Prewitt 41 OLLI at AUM SUMMER CLASS SCHEDULE 45 Kayak Little River page 52
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page 30
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48 SummerFest Returns 50 Humor-Cartoons 52 BOOM! Cover Profile 60 Food & Skin Oils-Tracy Bhalla
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Thanks for Reading BOOM!
BOOM! The River Regions 50+ Lifestage Magazine is published monthly by River Region Publications, P.O. Box 6203, Montgomery, AL 36106. The phone number is 334.324.3472. Copyright 2022 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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Dr. Blake Raggio, Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
Beauty and the Brows
In recent articles I discussed the increasing popularity of Botox and Filler in non-surgical facial rejuvenation. Over the next few months, I’ll be focusing my discussions on the most common surgical modalities used to reverse the signs of aging. Herein, I’ll discuss the topic of surgical eyebrow rejuvenation by answering some frequently asked questions regarding how to best treat this often-overlooked area of the upper face.
Remind me again, what happens to the brows as we age? In short, the ideal brow aesthetic describes a brow that rests just at or above the bony orbital rim (i.e., forehead bone). With age, the brows descend or become ptotic (droopy) due to a combination of factors, namely the weakening of various retaining ligaments of the eyebrow and surrounding structures. This loss of structural support, in association with the downward pull of gravity, is responsible for the sad, tired, or angry look often associated with a descended brow. Furthermore, a droopy brow has more than just cosmetic consequences, as it can exacerbate a heavy upper eyelid and negatively affect one’s vision. I am interested in fixing my droopy brow– What are my options? In the most basic sense, two categories of treatment exist: surgical and non-surgical. In the surgical realm, the procedure is called a brow lift (i.e., forehead lift), which can be accomplished via a variety of surgical techniques ranging from minimally invasive approaches (via endoscopes) to more traditional open techniques.
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More so, some of these less invasive procedures may even be performed in-office under local anesthesia, which equates to less downtime and more affordable procedural costs. Costs for this procedure start around $3,000.00, though vary based on a number of factors including surgeon, location, and technique implemented. Regarding non-surgical options, a modest lift of the brow can be performed using botulinum toxin (Botox,
Xeomin, Dysport) and/or dermal fillers (Juvederm, Restylane, RHA) to help relax muscles pulling down the brow and to provide underlying support, respectively. Recently, thread lifts and several energybased devices (e.g., Ultrasound, Radiofrequency) have been introduced to help suspend a droopy brow, though their efficacy and durability remain controversial. Overall, more subtle improvements can be achieved with Botox and fillers, whereas more dramatic changes will require a surgical procedure. At what age is a surgical brow lift usually required? There is really no age requirement for a brow lift. For instance, some patients in their early 30’s who suffer from a congenitally low-set brow may benefit from a modest lift using non-surgical techniques (Botox, Fillers); On the other hand, patients who acquire a droopy
brow secondary to age—typically noticeable in their 40’s and 50’s—often benefit from a surgical browlift usually performed via a minimally invasive approach or open techniques, depending on the severity of the brow droop. Is a brow lift covered by insurance? Unfortunately, the use of Botox and Filler to lift the brow is not covered by insurance. However, if you are interested in a surgical brow lift, you might be surprised to hear that your insurance may cover the procedure, but only if the brow descent is caused by a facial paralysis and/or contributing to problem with your vision. This visual deficit can be easily confirmed via a formal visual field test done by your local ophthalmologist (eye doctor) or optometrist. How can I learn more about a brow lift? If you are interested in learning more about brow rejuvenation to help correct a tired, sad, or angry appearance to the upper face, I suggest consulting with a Surgeon experienced in both surgical and non-surgical brow lift techniques so that you receive a thorough and nonbiased evaluation. As always, choose a surgeon whom you trust. There is nothing more important than the relationship you have with your doctor. In Good Health, Dr. Blake Raggio Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
Alabama Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
334-373-3611 www.ALplasticsurgery.com Dr.Raggio@alplasticsurgery.com R ive r Re gio n Bo o m . co m
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Publisher’s Letter
Happy Father's Day 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 cell/text jim@riverregionboom.com
Contributing Writers Jeff Barganier Tracy Bhalla Greg Budell
Michael Castanza Erik Jenson Tom Kamber Christina Leimer Stacey Little Susan Moore Matt Paxton Darwin Prewitt Dr. Blake Raggio Nick Thomas Donna Woods
Cover Photography
Welcome to the June issue of BOOM! In this month’s issue we have many good articles, features, and columns for your reading pleasure. It’s an experience you’ll probably want to share with a friend or 2. In June we usually feature a man and a father. This June is no exception, and we have a terrific profile to present to you. His name is Michael Castanza and many of you probably already know him through his work at Chappy’s Deli, Perry Hill, and their other locations. Michael Jim Watson, Publisher jim@riverregionboom.com also worked for many years at The Sahara Restaurant, owned by Joe and Mike Deep. He liked that experience so much he became their son-in-law after he married Diane Deep! Michael and Diane have 4 married children and 12 grandchildren. Michael has made a difference in the Montgomery community through his work, his faith, and his family. I’m proud to share his story with you this month, I’m sure you’ll enjoy getting to know him a little bit more than you already do and be sure to say hello next time you’re in Chappy’s. As some of you may know there’s a new restaurant opening in Downtown Montgomery called Ravello. It’s an upscale project of fine dining and entertainment that Montgomery has not seen. It will be a go to when you want to upscale your date night or impress out of town guests. All that being said, I want to give someone a $100 Ravello Gift Certificate if they subscribe to the digital edition of BOOM! during the month of June. When you sign up on our website, www.riverregionboom.com or use the QR Code on the cover, you will qualify to win this sweet prize of $100 Ravello Gift Certificate. Only the first 500 subscribers will qualify so hurry to sign up for a subscription to BOOM! Digital Issue in June. To learn more visit www.ravellomgm.com
Photography by DiAnna Paulk photographybydiannapaulk.com
Thanks for reading and sharing, age well my friends.
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Jim Watson, 334.324.3472
334.324.3472 cell/text jim@riverregionboom.com
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Spend Your Summer at Camp
GrandCamp
by Erik Jenson
Simply put, I love camp.
them of eternal value. And camp is just the start. The intentionality introduced, taught, and fostered at GrandCamp continues day after day, year after year. As a parent, I am overwhelmed by the camp’s impact on all three generations and, no doubt, future generations to come.
I attended Christian camps and retreats throughout my entire childhood, and as an adult, I lived and served at a Bible camp for several years. I can confidently say that camp has changed my life. If you’ve ever been to camp, I would guess it has changed your life, too. Whether it’s a week of summer camp, a weekend retreat, or even just a day program, there is just something extraordinary about it. Getting away from the busyness and routine of everyday life, spending time surrounded by God’s amazing creation, and connecting with family and friends in a different setting all lend to the powerful and unique opportunities that arise through the experience of attending a Christian camp. Couple this with the special bond between grandparents and their grandkids, and you’ve got a recipe for something amazing.
and Bible teaching are all still there. So are the joyful hearts and smiling faces of the grandparents and grandchildren present. But the focus on building intentionality into this intergenerational relationship adds an incredible element that has changed my parents’ lives, the lives of my children, and the lives of us as parents.
I was immediately sold on the idea when I first heard about GrandCamp. Helping grandparents intentionally point their grandchildren to Christ takes this already special relationship and ensures it has eternal value. Grandparenting isn’t just about leaving a legacy; it’s about leaving a legacy that points to Jesus and makes Him the end goal of everything in life. GrandCamp sounded like it would be a tremendous tool in fostering that kind of legacy and transforming both grandparents and grandchildren for the glory of God. After observing and participating in GrandCamps as a volunteer, it proved to be all I thought and more. The typical camp atmosphere of crazy games, silly songs, planned and spontaneous group activities, campfires, and worshipping God through singing
All three of my children have been to GrandCamp – more than once! My wife and I have been blown away by the impact it has had on all of us. Witnessing my parents and in-laws loving my kids by making Jesus the center of their relationships is a beautiful encouragement. Knowing that we as parents are not alone in this task is a tremendous blessing. Watching my children grow closer to their grandparents in the context of Christ’s love is another powerful testimony of God’s grace. Yes, Grandpa, Grandma, Oma, and Papa will always be sources of fun, games, cookies, and presents. But the spiritual influence and discipleship that occur in, with, and under all of these temporal and sometimes seemingly mundane interactions make
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Paul praised Lois for her sincere faith, which she passed on to her daughter and, in turn, to her grandson, Timothy. I doubt that there was an established chapter of the Christian Grandparenting Network Canada in Asia Minor in the first century. Still, the fact remains that grandparents have always left a legacy for their grandchildren to follow. GrandCamp is simply another fantastic tool in the church’s toolbox to foster obedience to Christ through the preaching and propagation of the gospel message to the world around us, starting in the branches of our own family tree. I’ve loved camp for many years. That hasn’t changed, but that love has expanded to include this unique camp opportunity. For the spiritual obedience, joy, and growth that it fosters in all of us, I love sending my kids to GrandCamp. GrandCamp is a ministry of Christian Grandparenting Network. To learn more visit https://grandcamps.com/ Erik Jenson spent four years serving as the chaplain at a Bible Camp in central Alberta. A graduate of Central Baptist Theological Seminary in Minneapolis, he now serves at a rural church in Southwestern Ontario and works in the accounting department at CNTNR Modular Building Solutions. Erik and his wife, Joy, have four children, and the entire family loves GrandCamp. Source: www.ChristianGrandparenting.com
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Jest a Moment
By Nick Thomas
Jest A Moment: Take Your Dog to Work
While many seniors look forward to early retirement, others continue to make the daily trek to the office for years. For those who do and happen to be dog owners, remember that every dog has its day.
Having convinced your boss to allow you to haul your massive mutt to the office, you should also check with coworkers. While a snarling Rottweiler would certainly cast an imposing figure sitting by the desk guarding your stapler, it might be unsettling for some coworkers if left unleashed to roam around the watercooler.
This year, that day is Friday, June 24, when the 24th national Take Your Dog to Work Day will be Casey the border collie visits an office in the author's town - Photo Nick Thomas held. Once again, dog owners throughout North America will Also remember that dogs love to chew be prodding their poodles and pulling and run off with stuff. Just because you For instance, if your boss is always their pugs to patronize their place of steal stationery supplies from the office complaining about staff who never employment. doesn’t mean your dog should. make meetings on time, explain that The event is promoted by Pet Sitters International (see www.petsit.com/ takeyourdog if you think I’m pulling your paw) and has been growing nationwide since 1999 (there is now also a Take Your Cat to Work Day – wisely observed on a different day). Involvement ranges from merely taking a dog to work, to holding office pet parties, and even raising money and awareness for local petrescue organizations. To participate, your first step should be to consult with your employer for permission, reminding him or her that some dog breeds are invaluable in the workplace.
an employee with a border collie could help round up those slack stragglers and promptly herd them into the conference room before you can say “Lassie come home.”
And speaking of the iconic TV pooch, collie owners could also mention how dependable they are at alerting others should a colleague tumble down the elevator shaft (despite being a TV myth vis-à-vis Lassie and the well, your gullible boss may fall for it – no pun intended). Or, if you have a husky, explain how invaluable a four-legged assistant would be to pull the coffee cart into the boss’s office five times a day.
On the other hand, you don’t want your dog to be too well-behaved. Should the boss ever realize that your dog fetches things more quickly than you and comes running immediately when whistled, Rover may be promoted to your position while you’re sent home to the doghouse. Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery in Alabama, and has written features, columns, and interviews for many newspapers and magazines. See www.getnickt.org.
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MANE’s 2022 Course for Hope Golf Tournament, Dinner, and Auction sponsored by Regions Bank
There was “Audrey” series. Other auction items Cawood) magic to be included Taylor Swift’s autographed who won 1st done! The “1989” vinyl and album cover custom lace Oculus enchantingly framed; 100 level 50-yard line tickets to Quest appropriate a Tennessee Titans home football game Headset theme for with rooms at The Thompson Hotel in and Carry MANE’s Nashville; Jack Nickkaus’ autographed Case. Arthur Course for Masters Championships flag and badge DuCote, Hope 2022, display; a Chef’s Table experience for 8 recently summoned guests at Wynlakes; a 5-day big-game retired from the hunt in Argentina; a deep-sea fishing Regions benevolent, trip; 7 nights in a Tuscan villa; a guided Bank led magical quail hunt at Five Star Preserve Lodge; the evening power of an E-Z Go S4 Golf Cart; a speckled prayer MANE Director, Tiffany Atkinson, Dr. David Thrasher, MANE student thanking giving, so trout fishing trip in Venice, LA; a guitar Amelia Maddox, Mrs. Alice Thrasher that wishes signed by the late Tom Petty and each God for the could come true and therapeutic riding of the Heartbreakers; and tickets to dinner, the event, the blessings bestowed would be a reality for more people The Regions Tradition Senior PGA Golf on each participant, and for MANE. who have special needs. Course for Tournament with Hope is an event held every other year VIP tent access. As soon as at Wynlakes Golf and Country Club the servers to help provide funding for MANE’s The “Catch A left the equine-assisted activities program Miracle” donations ballroom, for River Region children and adults created magic in Granger (including veterans) who have physical, terms of funds for Thaggard cognitive, developmental, and emotional rider scholarships, Auctioneers disabilities or at-risk youth. Regions ensuring that more took their Bank was the lead sponsor for the entire deserving families places among roster of events. Mark Snead, the Market than ever before the tables to All Ladies Golf Team of Course for Hope with Rhonda President of Synovus in Montgomery, will have access to be able to see Hodgson, Chris Stephens, Stephanie Craft and Betty Zettler welcomed golfers to the lunch sponsored MANE’s services each bidder. by Synovus. Lunch was served as a and resources. MANE Board Members Jack Granger encouraged, coaxed, delicious buffet dressed in red, white, helping with the event were Cindy coddled, and entertained the audience and black. The putting Longshore, Lela Snead, Cheri Jordan, Jim making sure green was sponsored by Edwards, Sandra Stenger Branch, Mike that each of Baptist Health. “Closest Ward, Katharine Harris, Kelly Wilson, the auction to the Pin” winners on and Susie Wilson. Photographers for the items went the 4 par 3 holes were event were David Hagood of Hagood for top dollar. given a chance to win Photography and Brooke Glassford of Live auction one million dollars. Kyle Colorbox Photography. items included Weidman (Vance Law a stunning Visit MANE’s website www.maneweb. Firm), John Stivender pearl necklace, org for event updates and information (PowerSouth), Don bracelet, and Deemer (Neptune about riding, volunteering and donating. stud set from MANE is located at 3699 Wallahatchie Tech) and John Bricken Cronier’s Fine MANE Board of Directors Paris Wixon and Spencer Longshore Jewelery, Road, Pike Road, Alabama 36064. The (Goodwyn, Mills, and MANE number is 334-213-0909. Please Cawood) tried to get the ball in the hole modeled beautifully by MANE’s very from 165 yards away from the 18th pin mark your calendars for MANE’s “Raise own two-time Special Olympic gold to claim the cash. Better luck next time! the Roof” party hosted by Wintzell’s medal winner, Miss Amelia Maddox. Oyster House at MANE’s therapeutic Tournament Champions were team John The most heated (and extravagant) riding facility on Thursday, October 20, Bricken, Bobby Kemp, Max Vaughn, bidding war of the auction was over and Justin Barrett (Goodwyn, Mills, and 2022. Ashley Longshore’s painting from her The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake
This Peanut Butter Cream Pound Cake recipe makes a dense cake with a crusty exterior that’s lightly flavored with peanut butter. Ingredients For the cake: • 1/2 cup butter-flavored solid shortening • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened • 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened • 1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter • 3 cups sugar • 6 eggs • 3 cups all-purpose flour • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 1/8 teaspoon salt • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract For the glaze icing: • 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk • 1/2 cup peanut butter • 3 tablespoons milk Instructions 1. Grease and flour a 12-cup Bundt pan. Set aside. Do not preheat the oven. 2. In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream shortening, butter, cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth. 3. Gradually add the sugar, beating until light and fluffy. 4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. 5. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt. 6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, blending well. 7. Add the vanilla and mix well. 8. Pour into the prepared pan. Place in a cold oven. 9. Bake at 325 degrees for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean. 10. Allow to rest in the pan for about 10 minutes, then invert onto a serving platter. 11. Make the glaze icing by mixing the sweetened condensed milk, peanut butter and milk together until smooth. 12. Pour over cooled cake. Source: www.southernbite,com
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CMS Unveils More User-Friendly Medicare Website The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) unveiled several updates to the www.Medicare.gov website that make it easier, for millions of people who use it, to navigate and access information to compare and select health and drug coverage and find providers. The updated website, based on consumer feedback, prominently features timely initiatives and messages on the homepage and highlights key tasks and information most frequently sought by people with Medicare, people nearing Medicare eligibility, and their families. “CMS is making Medicare.gov easier to use and more helpful for people seeking to understand their Medicare coverage, which is an essential part of staying healthy,” said CMS Administrator Chiquita BrooksLaSure. “We are committed to listening to the people we serve as we design and deliver new, personalized online resources and expanded customer support options for people with Medicare coverage and those who support them.” Since 2021, CMS has introduced a number of enhancements to www.Medicare.gov to create a more welcoming and user-friendly experience. This week’s improvements redesign the Medicare. gov home page and, also, add more detailed pricing information about Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) Policies that give individuals the information they need to compare Medigap plan costs and coverage options. CMS is committed to providing comprehensive and easily accessible information to support people with Medicare in their decision making. Additional improvements are planned for the next few months to streamline the Medicare Plan Finder landing page and the Medicare Account landing page, and align the look and feel with the new home page.
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New Book from Montgomery Author Nomad of the 1970s In October 1971, 22-year-old Bob Corley landed in Amsterdam with a backpack, a guitar, and $200 in his jeans. His travels mirrored Bob Corley those of thousands of like-minded individuals going far from home, staying for extended periods, carrying only what could fit in a backpack. Corley's youthful, free spirited wandering followed three years in the regimented world of the US Army. His recently released book, "Confessions of an Ignorant Traveler" (enclosed), is based on his 50-year-old journal of that trip, a meandering, solo, hitchhiking journey through Holland, Germany, Austria, the former Yugoslavia, Greece, and Israel. At times witty and self-deprecating, his transcribed journal of half-a-century ago, paired with cur-rent musings, offer insight into the 1970s world of this nomadic group of Baby Boomers.
pondered that question many times in the intervening years and found no satisfactory answer." By adding historical details missed during his travels half-acentury ago, "Confes-sions of an Ignorant Traveler" will inspire others to learn more about their destination prior to departure. The book also contains links
to five of Corley's songs relating to his travels. A noted singer/songwriter, he has performed at Nashville's Bluebird Cafe, and the 30A Songwriters Festival in Destin, FL. "Confessions of an Ignorant Traveler" is available in paperback or as an eBook from Amazon.
Excerpt from "Confessions of an Ignorant Traveler" “No one with an ounce of youth, vigor, or curiosity could arrive in (Amsterdam) and not feel compelled to hang around and take advantage of the casual attitude of law enforcement, and the casual, consensual relationships common among this peripatetic assemblage of Baby Boomers...Three hours after I first breathed Amsterdam’s air, I was headed out of town. Don’t ask me why. I’ve Free Subscriptions @ w w w. riverregionbo o m . co m The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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Leaving on a
Jet Plane? flymgm.com
The Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM) is expecting a busy summer travel season, as passengers are ready to make their summer vacations happen again. This year passengers are urged to plan ahead; from booking flights to hotels, timing is more critical than ever. According to recent travel searches, major U.S. cities such as Chicago, Houston, Washington, D.C., Austin, and New York City seem to trend. However, when determining a summer vacation, MGM recommends being flexible with your travel, staying close to home, or going somewhere off-season to avoid large crowds. Choosing a weekday over a weekend or avoiding traveling over the holidays can yield savings. Also, using a fare calendar and creating price alerts to track pricing will help you snag a deal. Things to keep in mind when traveling, Covid-19 is far from over, so you may have to get tested before you leave or when you return when traveling to different countries. MGM advises that you check with your destination. When to arrive at MGM To help manage summer travel through MGM, passengers should arrive at least two hours before boarding domestic flights, regardless of the day of the week or time of day their flight is scheduled. Travelers should budget extra time if they need to check luggage or return a rental car before joining the security screening lines. First-time flyers, travelers who have not flown in years, large groups, and those traveling with small children should also give themselves extra time. Preparing for TSA screening and packing properly Security screening checkpoints open at 3:30 a.m., and TSA Precheck is available. Recently, MGM installed a new Computed Tomography (CT) x-ray system for carry-on items. The latest checkpoint X-ray scanning equipment is the latest state-of-the-art technology to enhance threat detection capabilities for carry-on baggage. According to TSA, research shows that CT is the most powerful technology available today for airport checkpoints. MGM offers direct flights to Charlotte, North Carolina, Dallas Fort-Worth, Texas, and Washington, D.C. via American Airlines and to Atlanta, Georgia via Delta Airlines
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Rock Country Roll
Music Festival
Our souls need healing after these past few years, we’ve lost loved ones and lost hope. What better way to heal the soul then a safe space with good Rock & Country music. A event with good food, music, wellness and healing, vendors, games and more. Come join us for Montgomery’s ROCK COUNTRY ROLL MUSIC FESTIVAL in the heart of the city at River Walk Amphitheater . We will be playing the best of Classic and New Rock & Country Music Bring your own cooler (No Glass). This event will be from 12noon until 11pm, Saturday June 25th.
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Looking Back Doesn't Mean I'm Old By Christina Leimer
But I Thought It Might
Reflecting on our lives can help determine coping strategies, a better understanding of others and an improved sense of well-being to help people with dementia and depressive symptoms.
Aging is no big deal, I thought. I grew up around grandparents and great-grandparents and as a teen and young adult I worked in nursing homes. My friends were often at least a decade older than me. Always focused on the future, with each new decade I felt stronger, more confident and content.
"Reminiscence is a great tool," said Alison Moritz, program director at San Francisco Institute on Aging's (IOA) Enrichment Center where adults with dementia come for day activities.
So I was surprised when, new to my sixth decade, I found myself looking back at the past and thinking, does this mean I'm old? I'm not ready for that! Searching the web and academic literature, I realized I'd stepped right into a stereotype about older people — that they live in the past. According to Dr. Gerben J. Westerhof, narrative psychology researcher at the University of Twente in The Netherlands, most people reminisce from time to time, regardless of their age. "Few people really live in their past," he said. "About half of older adults engage spontaneously in a more systematic review of their lives. You might say they live of their past rather than in their past." While for some people, looking back can evoke bitterness or be a way of escaping current problems, more often we benefit from looking back. "It's grounding," said Dr. Tom Meuser, clinical psychologist and director of the Center for Excellence in
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Aging & Health at the University of New England. Meuser's 85-year-old former executive father returned to his hometown after he retired. He meets weekly at a diner with a small group of high school friends to reminisce. Reminiscing Can Help Tap Into Resilience "With advancing age, when your footprint in the world is shrinking and your social network is getting smaller, reminiscing helps people tap into their own inner resilience, to recognize 'I've done interesting and meaningful things and I still have them inside me'," said Meuser. Looking back on our life can help us remember past coping strategies, understand others better and improve our sense of well-being. Because looking back is so natural and helpful for most people, it's also used in formal ways by professionals and caretakers
For instance, if you know someone liked baseball you might give them a baseball to hold, let them put on a glove, play related music or the sounds of being in a stadium. "Engaging all their senses, it's a pressurefree way for them to tap into their own story. They have a joyful, purposeful day, sleep better at night, and it can help them live at home longer," she said. How Reminiscence Can Help People with Dementia IOA's volunteers are trained to work with dementia, but to help a family member using reminiscence Moritz offers this advice. 1. Ask open ended questions, so they're filling in the narrative and making the story themselves. 2. Don't correct facts. People tend to shut down if you do. For example, with aphasia — where people have difficulty coming up with the word — instead of The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
telling them the right word, give them 2-3 options and let them choose. This builds a sense of autonomy. 3. Remember, you have more control over your emotions and behavior than they do. Although many older adults review their life, in a therapeutic setting life review is typically used to alleviate depression. For that purpose, looking back is a more structured process. It may cover all phases of life or focus on a particular phase and both positive and negative memories. Most commonly, this technique is combined with cognitive behavioral, creative or other therapies. "It can help people make sense of critical life change like retirement, illness or widowhood," said Meuser. Sometimes life review or story work is done in groups too, where people look at their lives in the context of themes. The Birren Center for Autobiographical Studies uses "guided autobiography" (a process its founder pioneered) with groups. During these events, "priming questions" are asked to help evoke memories. Everyone's story is different, but participants use theirs to write two pages on a common theme. Then they read it to the group. "Our stories define us as individuals and as collective witnesses to our life and times," said Meuser. As an example, he offers an article he wrote with 86-year-old Fay Badasch. In it, she recounts her first job as a The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
switchboard operator, her company receiving the call that FDR had died, her GI boyfriend returning home and the unexpected ways the Holocaust influenced her.
Meuser's research found that parents and their adult children often have different views of what the parent's legacy is. "They think they know each other, but not as well as they think. The value of legacy conversations across generations is its potential to bring greater understanding and increase care and affection in families."
What may be ordinary experiences, placed in broader context makes clear how the times we live in affect us and sometimes how we affect the times
Since family difficulties aren't unusual and reflecting on legacy is often an end-oflife experience, how might you bring it up if you're a parent or adult child who wants to have a cross-generational legacy conversation?
or other people. More than recalling events, this storytelling is rich and multilayered. Looking at Life Experience Through a 'Legacy Lens' It helps us discover "what an experience means, especially when looking back after years of maturation and experience," said Meuser. "Even terrible events can take on new and important meanings when explored in older age. How did and does this memory define you now?" In his Ted Talk, Meuser encourages looking at our life experience through a "legacy lens." "All of us leave a legacy, aspects of ourselves that outlive us," he said. "In Western culture we don't often think about legacy as behaviors and values. We think of it as financial. We're creating legacy right now in everything we do."
Meuser suggests starting with yourself. Think about how you'll respond. Maybe come up with a brief story about the person's impact. Then test it out with them. Stay open and curious, checking, "do I have it right?" But remember, some people may not be open to it. "As we review our lives from the vantage point of age, we have a tendency to emphasize the positive, life-giving experience of our own story," Meuser said. "It doesn't have to be all rosy, but there's a tendency to find strength in the past, to focus on the good stuff." Christina Leimer is an independent writer, researcher and Fellow with Fielding Graduate University's Institute for Social Innovation. She can be reached through her website, www.ChristinaLeimer.com.
Source: www.nextavenue.org
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Poetry from a Reader
Waves from Abacos, Donna Woods
I wrote this poem in the wee hours as I was editing wave pictures from the Abacos. These views render me mindlessly unproductive. I am perfectly able to sit and stare for hours on end at the beauty of the sea, which changes constantly before my eyes. No matter the time spent, and nor how hard I try, I literally cannot capture to memory all that's before me. This is my God moment. How human is it that we are incapable of taking in all His glory, which of course, warrants the need to experience these things over and over and over ... Because ultimately it is best ... in the moment. (Comments welcome, jim@riverregionboom.com)
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Climb across the rocks with me, to stare into the depths of the deep, blue sea Wonderment and awe at it's chaotic way Humbleness envelopes at the powerful display The ebb and flow, the rise and fall The dramatic, the peace The yearning, the beckoning Shades of fear, but calming, so calm Disruptive, destructive, yet life abounds Light illuminates each wave's pound White foam churns with salty spray, Sparkling droplets by the brilliance of day The strength of it's calling stirs the soul Hypnotic in its hold, certain of it's role Breathtaking beauty, no words truly describe The Creator's creation, perfection abides Thankful, so thankful for His great splendor That leaves me wanting for so much more .... "Be still, be still ... and know that I am" Climb across the rocks with me, to stare into the depths of the deep, blue sea Donna Woods
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Embrace New Experiences!
Capitol Sounds Concert Band presents “50th Anniversary Summer Spectacular Concert” The Capitol Sounds Concert Band, organized in 1972, is celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2022 with several concerts and performances. The next concert will take place on Tuesday, June 7, 7:00 PM at Troy University’s Davis Theatre. This exciting concert will feature special guest soloist Ookjin You on piano as the Capitol Sounds performs the George Gershwin classic, “Rhapsody in Blue”. Also, the band will perform in its entirety “Pictures at an Exhibition”, composed by Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky, orchestrated by Maurice Ravel and transcribed for concert band by Paul Lavender. In addition to these selections, the band will perform the John Philip Sousa march “Golden Jubilee”, guest conducted by Don Darby,
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who served as director of the concert band from 1976-84. TICKET INFORMATION: Tickets are $20 and $10 (Military/Senior/Student). To purchase tickets and learn more visit: www.capitolsounds.org. In addition, check out our Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/capitolsoundscb/ The Capitol Sounds Concert Band in Montgomery, Alabama, is an allvolunteer, non-profit organization supported by the City of Montgomery Parks and Recreation Department and under the direction scan with phone of John Jackson for tickets
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Helping Widows and Widowers Move Forward On Their Own
The loss of a spouse can be devastating, both emotionally and financially, especially if it was unexpected. The stress of handling all the legal and financial issues can be overwhelming, even for women or men who are financially savvy. Widows are one of the fastest growing demographic groups in the United States. In addition, some of the statistics about widows are startling. The average age that women are widowed is 59 years old. In addition, 70% of Baby Boomer wives will outlive their husbands; 80% of women will be single at death. Half of women over age 65 will outlive their husbands by 15 years. Every June, Susan Moore of Moore Wealth Management, Inc. (MWM) conducts two free workshops in Montgomery. One is designed especially for widows and their supportive friends, another one for widowers. The workshop for widows was produced by Kathleen M. Rehl, PhD, CFP, in conjunction with the Protective Life Insurance Company. The workshop covers the following topics: the impact of grief and emotion, the 3 stages of widowhood, avoiding common financial mistakes and next steps to take. Due to the pandemic, the workshop will be conducted in a webinar format. The June 2022 workshop for widows will be on Wednesday, June 29th at 12 p.m. Please call 334.270.1672, or email Sarah@ moorewealthmanagement.com, for more information and reservations. Kathleen Rehl is a financial advisor who was widowed at the age of 60. Although she and her husband had been financial advisors for several years and she had
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Financial Thoughts with Susan Moore
By Susan Clayton Moore, J.D.
Principal of Moore Wealth Management, Inc.
helped various clients go through the financial and legal issues after the death of a spouse, it was a more difficult experience for her than she would have expected. “For me personally,” she said, “I didn’t remember my Social Security number. I could not recall where I put my car keys. I wondered if I was going crazy. I was not. It was just a normal part of being a new widow.”
educational materials.
Attendees to the workshop receive a free copy of Rehl’s book, Moving Forward on My Own, A Financial Guidebook for Widows, in addition to other valuable
In addition, Susan will conduct a webinar for widowers on Thursday, June 30th at 12 p.m. The workshop for widowers is based on the book The Widower’s Journey: Helping Men Rebuild After Their Loss, by Herb Knoll, Deborah Carr, Ph.D., and Robert Frick. Please call 334.270.1672 or email
Sarah@moorewealthmanagement.com, for more information and reservations.
Susan Clayton Moore, J.D., is a financial advisor and wealth manager of Moore Wealth Management, Inc, with offices in Auburn, Montgomery, and Alexander City, AL. Susan has under advisement assets over $170 million (as of 1.21.2022) in brokerage and advisory assets through Kestra Financial and has been a financial planner for over 38 years. Contact Susan at 334.270.1672. Email contact is susan@moorewealthmanagement.com. The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Kestra Investment Services, LLC or Kestra Advisory Services, LLC. This is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney or tax advisor regarding your individual situation. Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS. Kestra IS or Kestra AS are not affiliated with Moore Wealth Management, Inc. https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures Kathleen M. Rehl, PhD, CFP, CeFT, Protective Life Insurance Company, Moore Wealth Management and LPL are all separate entities. *Rehl, Kathleen M. PhD, CFP, CeFT, Moor, Carolyn C. Leitz, Linda Grable, and John E. (2016, January) Widows “Voices: The Value of Financial Planning.” Journal of Financial Services Professionals
June Workshop (webinar)
Helping Widows and Widowers
Move Forward On Their Own
to register, call our Montgomery office at
334.270.1672
sarah@moorewealthmanagement.com
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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June 2022
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By Tom Kamber
Older Adults and the
Automation of Everything An Influencer in Aging talks about how some older adults are thriving with technology, how others aren’t, and why the gap needs to close. What has the automation of everything meant for older adults? Back in graduate school my statistics professor, Mr. Sherrill, showed us a graph one day that looked like a two-humped camel. "This distribution," he explained, "is called 'bimodal.' When there are two distinct trends within a population, instead of a normal bell curve, we get this two-peaked shape." For older adults dealing with the rapid and sometimes overwhelming impact of technology on our lives, the results are looking like one of Professor Sherrill's twohumped camel graphs. Many older adults are thriving in the digital age – Zooming away happily with friends, ordering groceries online, and staying healthy with streaming fitness classes. Others, unfortunately, are struggling to use technology and, in many cases, barely taking advantage of it at all. This "bimodal" pattern of technology impact for older adults has far-reaching implications for how we evaluate the benefits of technology and what we should do when it fails some of the most vulnerable citizens. As the executive director of Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP, a nonprofit organization using technology to flip the script on aging, I've seen firsthand how the digital transition has been a boon to some older adults, but a serious obstacle for others. Some Are Thriving with Technology During the pandemic I received an email from Marcia Lee, who took an OATS class and used her new iPad skills to get a job as a poll worker for the Board of Elections, and then took a portion of her earnings
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and bought a 1997 Chrysler Sebring Convertible so she could visit with friends at her pool club. Marcia is thriving, like many of her peers. A recent survey from AARP found that 70% of Americans over 50 made a tech purchase in the past year and continued to "expand their repertoire of tech devices." My nonprofit hosted over 280,000 visits to our free online classes last year at SeniorPlanet.org –more than double the number served before the pandemic. The other day we had over 700 people participating in a morning stretch class online. These numbers are mind-boggling for my staff, who are used to teaching 15 people at a time in the basement of a senior center. Maria Arnold is another success story. She lives in public housing and received a free tablet and WiFi connection from the local government. The pandemic was a terrible time for Maria, who lost her husband and a child in the space of one year and was struggling to regain control over her life. The tablet computer arrived at just the right time and Maria learned to manage her own finances and household tasks after taking an online class. Her confidence grew and she recently told me, "I was like a little bird in a cage waiting for them to feed me. Now I fly. I am an eagle. I can fly wherever I want." Indeed, a researcher from Cornell University studied the tablet distribution program that Maria participated in and found that older adults who took advantage of technology and training were three times more likely to reach out to make new friends and significantly less likely to be depressed during the pandemic. Unfortunately, not everyone is flying like an eagle. Another recent national study, funded by The Humana Foundation and conducted by OATS, determined that 42%
of households headed by older adults lack high-speed wireline internet at home. Digital Disconnection is Also an Issue Even worse, the patterns of digital disconnection closely tracked existing inequities in American society. Older adults who were lower income, lived alone, lived in rural communities, were Black or Latino, or had health challenges — all tended to be less connected through broadband at home. In fact, older adults with less than a high school education were 17 times less likely to have broadband at home than people with higher education. My friend Chester is over 70 and lives on the shore of Lake Pontchartrain in Louisiana and says TV is the only technology he needs, but he struggles intensively as a full-time caregiver for his wife. I know technology can help him get more of the support and enrichment he needs, but he has so many barriers to adoption that it's hard to get him to start. This digital disconnectedness translates into social isolation, loneliness, and for many older adults, mental health challenges. It's no secret that social isolation disproportionately affects older adults, but less well known is the terrible crisis affecting seniors who die by suicide at alarming rates. An article in Psychiatric Times this month reports that men over the age of 75 are more than twice as likely to die by suicide than the general population. Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine posit that a tablet-based application called WellPATH shows promise in helping suicidal individuals use cognitive reappraisal strategies — possibly saving lives. We Need to End Digital Isolation What does this mean for activists, community leaders, and policy makers? We need two complementary approaches The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
to serve two distinct groups of older adults. For eager adopters like Marcia and Maria, we need accelerator strategies that expand and enhance the potential benefits of technology in their lives: increased support for telemedicine, digital government service delivery, flexible workforce arrangements for older workers, online continuing education programs, and mixed-reality global travel and civic engagement innovations. Armed with the power of technology, older adults are forging successful new patterns of longevity — social, economic, and physical. For the technology-resistant, we need much more intensive efforts to close the technology adoption gap, starting with broadband adoption. The new Affordable Connectivity Program is a great start, but people like Chester need a full-service approach to getting online for the first time, with a free device, installation and setup assistance, and free training and ongoing support. OATS collaborated with the City of New York to distribute 10,000 free, internet enabled tablets to low-income older adults, including phone-based and online classes and support, and found promising results where participants reported lessened feelings of social isolation and loneliness. A national campaign to end digital isolation among seniors could make a major difference in the lives of the isolated older adults who are on the wrong hump of Professor Sherrill's statistical camel. I am optimistic that with concerted, intentional and thoughtful policy and advocacy efforts, our digital world can benefit everybody. We must continue leveling the playing field and bringing those disconnected online to allow access to digital tools, online banking, libraries of entertainment and more social connection — the world of the internet. Tom Kamber is the executive director of Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP and Senior Planet. He is also a Next Avenue Influencer in Aging. Source: www.nextavenue.org The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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By Matt Paxton
Family Members May Want Your Stuff Just Not the Stuff You Think They Want
In this excerpt from his new book, 'Keep the Memories, Lose the Stuff,' PBS host Matt Paxton explains how unexpected items can be 'a launch pad to legacy' "Brutal honesty" is a phrase my clients often hear me use. Being brutally honest is a skill that I've used most of my life, sometimes to my detriment. But brutal honesty has been truly important when helping people discuss their family's possessions. That's because you need to decide who would want — and not want — your stuff. A lot of people — some of you reading this right now — have the misconception that nobody wants your stuff. Countless people over the years have told me, "My kids don't really care about anything I have." I'm sure it may seem true — after all, we don't as a rule invite family members to pick around the house and identify some items they hope to inherit! But I can say this firmly: Along with your stories, your family members are going to want some of your possessions. They just might not be the ones you'd expect. The Conversations You Don't Like Having The best way to confirm who wants what is to ask. That might sound blindingly obvious, but it can sometimes be difficult to pose such direct questions. We don't want to address our own mortality, and our loved ones don't want to appear greedy. And I want to warn you up front that
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Our adult kids are probably pretty clear on this — if they say no twice, it means no. You can sell it or give it to someone else who will appreciate it. What They Want Might Surprise You
when you ask your loved one questions about your prized objects, you might not like the answers! I guarantee you that family and close friends will want some of your stuff — but they might not want what you expect them to want. Finding out that others don't necessarily want your cherished belongings can be a painful experience. That prized tintype photo of your grandfather? Your son might just prefer to have it digitized. Your wedding dress? Your daughter might think that it's better suited to a thrift store than her closet. If there's something you own that your nephew previously told you he'd love to have — that sculpture or tie — he may have since changed his mind or discovered that he doesn't actually have the space for it. Similarly, if your kids say they don't want something now, don't assume that once you're gone they'll have come to their senses and value it. I've had families tell me in reference to a daughter who rejected some item, "Well, she doesn't want it now, but she just doesn't know what she wants. She'll want it in a few years."
A partner or child isn't saying she doesn't love you when she rejects your suggested gifts. It's better to find out now rather than waiting until the moving truck shows up. But if someone says no to your suggestions, ask what he would like of yours to help remember you. Your granddaughter may want your vintage 1960 Pucci dresses from the basement instead of your fancy china and crystal. Or perhaps your friend has always had his eyes on an old painting. Or she might want something you hadn't thought of altogether. Whatever the answer is, remember that it's not about what you want to give someone; it's about what he wants to keep your legacy alive. Often, the value to someone else of an object you own is emotional, not financial. Remember, the item is the vehicle to the story — the item isn't the story. Make sure your actions echo this insight. When you gift someone an item, explain why you want that person to have it. That's where the legacy lies. The why is what's important and may change someone's decision on wanting the item or not.
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I had one client who wanted to give her daughter a fragile snowflake Christmas tree ornament, but the ornament wasn't really her daughter's style. But if she had told her daughter why — because it had snowed on the morning she was born and she thought about her birth every time she hung the ornament — her daughter may have changed her mind. Sometimes the why is more important than the item. The story is the launch pad to a legacy.
Jewelry. Before my wedding, I had pieces of jewelry from my mom, both of my grandmothers, my grandfather, my dad, and my great-uncle melted together to create my wedding band. I love that a ring I wear that symbolizes the love for my wife is a mixture of gold from all the people who loved and raised me and never met my amazing bride.
Buttons. One of the most common items I find cleaning out If you're among a younger homes is a metal generation and reading Folgers coffee can this, I suggest that if you filled with either want something, say pennies, nails, or so. Don't be afraid to buttons. I routinely speak up. Tell your loved encourage my ones why their legacy clients to have matters to you, and what everyone in their possession tells that family pick one big story. I promise that if ugly loud button you do this, it will end up and sew it to the being one of the most bottom of their important conversations favorite jacket. of your life. Each time they're asked about the The Magic of Upcycling bizarre button, they get to tell The website the story of Text "I've Got Stuff" to Upcycle That, who it came 334.324.3472 then you'll www.upcyclethat.com from. Items are be entered to win a copy of uses this definition of starting points to upcycling: "The act “Keep The Memories, Lose The Stuff” amazing stories. of taking something no longer in use and Old clothes, giving it a second life and new function. from T-shirts to suits. They make In doing so, the finished product often wonderful quilts or stuffed animals that becomes more practical, valuable, and make excellent legacy gifts for younger beautiful than what it previously was." generations.
WIN THIS BOOK
Upcycling is a wonderful way of cultivating a legacy item. Among other advantages, you don't need to have anything financially valuable to upcycle something. In addition, the objects can be personal, idiosyncratic, and creative. I've seen dozens of everyday, sometimes run-down, items transformed into legacy items through the magic of upcycling. Here are some of my favorites:
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Matt Paxton is one of the top cleaning, downsizing, decluttering, and hoarding experts in the country. He now hosts the Emmy-nominated PBS show "Legacy List with Matt Paxton" after having been featured on A&E’s "Hoarders" for 12 years. He appears regularly as a public speaker, television guest on shows and radio personality helping families find the upside of downsizing. He lives in Atlanta with his wife and seven kids. Source: www.nextavenue.org
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Master Gardener's Perspective
SAFETY BEAR
This is the season when our good friend, Safety Bear, travels far away to go into hibernation. He knows that legions of folks will soon invade their yards, patios, gardens and flower beds with every tool, pesticide, weed killer and special fertilizer they can muster. In spite of his best educational efforts, he is quite aware that many of these yard warriors will sustain some sort of injury during this gardening extravaganza – some egregious.
Maybe it is time for a quick “buff up” so Safety Bear won’t be quite as appalled as he has in the past. Clearly the most dangerous implements in anyone’s weapon’s cache are ladders and chain saws. Used separately they are tricky enough, used together they can maim and even kill. I personally know two people who were seriously injured while on a ladder using a chain saw. Many others, to include myself have had the opportunity to feel some of that pain. Very few of us are smarter than a ladder. When using one use the “buddy system”. Don’t go solo – especially when working at some height. If you aren’t familiar with a chain saw, then don’t use it. Today’s saws have great new safety features but try telling that to the ER staff as you show them the severed part of your foot or hand. Even trying to start one of these monsters can cause muscle strain or worse yet, a stroke. If you are reading this article, then you probably can afford to hire someone to do that kind of work. Lawn mowers, weed-eaters, hedge trimmers, rototillers, etc., can quickly cause you or others severe bodily injury. Have a plan, don’t get in a hurry, try to make sure a family member or friend is
By Darwin Prewitt
impale his foot on an upturned garden rake. Absolutely none of us want to see or hear those sights and sounds. Make sure your rakes and shovels are stored correctly. How many of you have stepped on one of those and received a sharp blow to the head when the handle flew up. Snippers and loppers are fun to use until you cut the cable tv line like I recently did! The repairman told me he sees this all the time. Wouldn’t it be a surprise to cut through a high voltage electric line hidden in your shrubs?
nearby and aware of what you are doing. Most importantly, dress the part. Eye protection is an ABSOULTE MUST when using any implement. I learned that lesson in junior high school when a friend’s mom lost an eye after a rock ricocheted off a tree and hit her in the eye while she was mowing in her yard. Wear appropriate clothing. Nothing is as much fun as having the weed-eater kick up material that perforates your legs. If you are still using corded implements, it is imperative to keep an eye on the cord. I have plenty of extension cords you are welcome to borrow. All of them have been patched because I cut them with a hedge trimmer. Powered implements can get the job done quickly but they can also reach out and bite if you are distracted or become inattentive. Nonpowered instruments can also be very dangerous. As a 7th grader my wife had the opportunity to see a neighbor’s son
Use, account for and store all these items correctly. There couldn’t be much more of an exciting sound as you mow over your hand snippers that you left in the grass. Every one of us have either experienced an incident in the lawn or home or know someone that has. Almost every sad story begins with the words “I was in a hurry”. I’m quite certain the ER staff hears this daily. The best way to combat the “Hurry Bug” is to have a plan, slow down and use the Buddy System. On another note, do you have an effective first aid kit at home? Can you find it? If you don’t then spend some time and money putting one together. Keep it current. You will make many mistakes while working in the lawn and garden – don’t be one of them!!! Darwin Prewitt, an intern in the Master Gardener 2022 Master Gardener Class. For more information on becoming a master gardener, visit www.capcitymga.org or email capcitymaga@ gmail.com.
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OLLI at AUM SUMMER CLASS SCHEDULE, June 6-28, 2022 MONDAYS 10:00 - 11:30 am
Fun and Easy Ways to Decorate Cakes (10:00 – 12:00, extended period) Room 153 Arts and Crafts Fun Room 223/224
TUESDAYS 12:45 - 2:15 pm
Writing Workshop: Writing and Printing Your Favorite Family Memories, Room 155 The Art of Film: An Introduction
(12:45 – 3:30, extended period)
Room 154
10:00 - 11:30 am
Brain Bowl, Room 154
12:45 - 2:15 pm
Watercolor: Painting a Birdhouse Room 153
(12:45 – 3:15, extended period)
Line Dancing, Room 223/224
JOIN us this SUMMER! Tell your friends! www.aum.edu/OLLI
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Travel Experiences with Jeff and Cindy Barganier
Clarksville, Tennessee
Windows to the World Sphere
Clarksville’s about five hours up Interstate 65 to Nashville then northwest on I-24. The city abuts Kentucky’s border and Fort Campbell, home of the famed 101st Airborne Division. Named for Revolutionary War hero General George Rogers Clark, this fifth largest Tennessee city, (pop. 166,722) was founded in 1785, and is the home of Austin Peay State University. (Once stationed at Ft. Campbell as a U.S. Army Reservist, I received a tour of the post. But that’s a future story.) As Cindy and I cruise north through Tennessee, we’re passing vibrant green hills of plush hardwood forests and cleared fields of yellow clover. Billboards advertise whiskey distilleries and Jack Daniels Heritage Museum. As we approach downtown Clarksville, majestic church spires appear on the horizon. We drive to Clarksville’s amazing Customs House Museum & Cultural Center, circa 1889, and park in the museum parking lot. The Coca-Cola Café is just inside the door to the left. We ponder stopping in for refreshments, but they’re setting up for a party. We quickly discover the museum is a wonderful introduction to Clarksville’s interesting history, including its connection to Fort Campbell. Highlighted
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Wilma Rudolph, Olympic Champion 1960's
Customs House Museum
are notable native sons and daughters like WWII fighter pilot Frank Adkins; and Olympian Wilma Rudolph, once known as The Fastest Woman in the World. As a child, Rudolph had polio, double pneumonia, and scarlet fever, leaving her unable to walk without a brace. Her doctors told her she would never walk again. But her mother told her she could do anything she chose to believe. She won her first Olympic medal at only 16, and went on to break three world track records in the 1960’s Olympics in Rome!
of the rose windows of the church in the background. We stroll down Strawberry Alley—once a strawberry patch—where we find a Balloon Mural spelling out CLARKSVILLE. The whimsical Children’s Fountain makes us smile. Roxy Regional Theatre on Franklin Street opened in 1947. Beyond the Roxy, we come to the café Yada, allegedly the only “cicchetti” bar in Tennessee. As we loiter in front of Yada, a charming young lady named Josie—perhaps sensing we’re lost seniors— offers her assistance. “So, tell us about Yada,” I ask.
We depart the museum for a walking tour of downtown, viewing stunning art and architecture at every turn: Montgomery County Courthouse with its stately 2nd Empire clocktower (1879); Trinity Episcopal Church, circa 1877; First Presbyterian Church, circa 1822. We snap a photo at Downtown Commons, featuring the Windows to the World Sphere. Each piece of handwrought iron is made to copy the shape
She replies, “Yada is a Yiddish term. You know how you say, ‘yada, yada, yada,’ like, you get me. You don’t have to speak English. But the people around you understand each other. So, that’s kind of the environment there. It’s very friendly. Like, everybody who works there gets each other. It’s a very friendly environment. And the dining experience is part of that. The dining experience is called cicchetti. Cicchetti is basically a style of service where there are small, sharable The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
plates that replicate a revered around here. Venetian style of dining Third day, we tour Fort where people sit out under Defiance Civil War Park canopies and enjoy these and Museum where small plates. In Italy, people Confederate artillery fired eat out for, say, three on Union vessels as they hours. In America, it’s hard approached Clarksville to get people to do that. It’s via the Cumberland and very laid-back, take it slow, Red Rivers. Afterward, we and there’s small sharable drive to an early-1800’s plates that come out in village out in the country waves of food. It’s really called Historic Collinsville, Strawberry Alley Ale Works Banana Pudding (Jeff's Favorite) - Sergeant Vince Carter of Gomer the site of authentic cool. There’s a bunch of Pyle Fame was from Clarksville - Yada's Bagel Breakfast New York themed stuff, like structures. Beautiful, the Cramer Pizza based off of Seinfeld. And serene and educational, Collinsville is a there are velvet seats to replicate what a great daytrip spot for a picnic with the character in Seinfeld said: ‘I want to dine grands. ensconced in a sea of velvet.’ Darla Knight, the owner, put velvet seats in so people Last day, we visit Miss Lucille’s could dine in a sea of velvet. So, it’s all Marketplace, seven acres under roof, about the experience. It’s like the workers with awesome vendors featuring clothing, are cast members not servers.” (Note: boutiques, interiors, children’s apparel and Yada’s New York City bagels are amazing!) toys. This has been a great trip. Clarksville’s Jeff Viewing Cumberland River a fun, collegiate city with friendly people, morning, we return to Clarksville’s We invite Josie to join us for dinner up good eateries and historic sites. Parking’s historic downtown for breakfast at the street at Blackhorse Pub & Brewery tight. Take copious quarters for meters. Tell “Founding Frothers” Coffee where the and tell us more about Clarksville. First, ‘em BOOM! Magazine sent you! walls are adorned with Revolutionary we dash out to the Holiday Inn on Cracker War documents. One document names Barrel Drive, check in and freshen up. The For more information see: 42 American patriots who died or were manager, Jovarius, greets us with a warm www.Customshousemuseum.org wounded in a bloody battle near Concord. smile. Turns out, he’s from Hope Hull, Strawberry Alley Ale Works Wounded: “Prince Easterbrooks, a Negro Alabama and was previously manager www.saaleworks.com Man (sic) of Lexington.” Killed: “Capt. at the Holiday Inn East Chase! Small www.Roxyregionaltheatre.org William Barber’s Son of Charlestown, world. We return to meet Josie, enjoy her www.Yadaonfranklin.com aged 14.” Names with an asterisk indicate company and excellent food at Blackhorse www.Blackhorsebrews.com men killed instantly by the first fire of the Pub. Speaking of excellent food, when you www.Foundingfrotherscoffee.com enemy. A retired warrior strolls in after his visit Clarksville, you must try the Bourbon www.Ftdefianceclarksville.com morning run along the Cumberland River. Burger (with local meat) at Strawberry www.Historiccollinsville.com Owner Leeanna Woodall—she named her Alley Ale Works. It’s melt-in-your-mouth www.Misslucillesmarketplace.com son Alexander Hamilton Woodall—greets good. Excellent banana pudding, too! (We www.Visitclarksvilletn.com the man by name. Soldiers are loved and went twice.) Next Jeff S. Barganier is a novelist, travel writer and manager of Cindy Barganier Interiors LLC. He travels far and wide upon the slightest excuse for something interesting to write about. Contact: Jeffbarganier@knology.net. Instagram: @jeffbarganier. You may print out Jeff ’s features at www.jeffbarganier.com.
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Alabama Master Gardener Conference May 2-4 saw the Capital City Master Gardener Association and the Central Alabama Master Gardener Association welcome over three hundred Alabama Master Gardeners from around the state who descended upon Montgomery for the annual Master Gardener Conference held at the Embassy Suites. The theme for the year was Behind the Garden Gate. Chairperson for the event was Janice Jackson. Her co-chairs were Margaret Cully, Sandra Rosamond, and Candy Jones. The conference opened with hands-on workshops, Air-layering Camellias presented by Rhona Watson and Jane Mobley, and Herbal Beverages presented by Debbie Boutilier. Also, on Monday many guided tours of the area were opened to attendees. Among the tours were visits to the Cloverdale Community Gardens, Grace Episcopal Church Gardens, Downtown Master Gardener, Cheryl Fitzgerald enjoying a tour Wetumpka, Montgomery Botanical Gardens, ASU Research Gardens, Eat South, of the Cloverdale Community Gardens and Lilly’s Garden at Forest Ave. Magnet School. The second morning began with a greeting by Gov. Kay Ivey who welcomed the master gardeners and thanked them for their contribution to the beautification of the state and their work on educating property owners in good horticultural practices. The rest of the day was filled with educational presentations by experts in their fields including Erica Glasener, Beth Boles, Jack Rowe, David Brown, and keynote speaker, Dr. Gary Bachman. Breaks between speakers were filled with visits to the silent auction and to vendors of all things gardening. The conference closed out on Wednesday with a presentation on Small Space Gardening by Dr. Backman and the presentation of awards as well as announcements of silent auction winners. Patricia Farmer received the Mary Lou McNabb Master Gardener of the Year Award. Dani Carrol won the Top Extension Agent of the Year. The Alabama Master Gardener Associations consist of trained volunteers who work under the auspices of the Alabama Cooperative Janice Jackson, chair of the Extension Service headquartered at Auburn University. Master Gardeners do many gardening projects in the steering committee that organized the event communities in which they live, serve as speakers for community groups as well as answering homeowner questions through the Alabama Helpline, and donating food from their demonstration gardens through the Grow More Give More project. If you are interested in becoming a Master Gardener, please contact your local county Extension Agency or www.capcitymga.org or email capcitymaga@gmail.com.
Capital City Master Gardeners Association Lunch & Learn @ The Armory
Capital City Master Gardener Association presents Lunch & Learn, the 1st Wednesday of Every Month from 12-1 pm. They will meet at Armory Learning Arts Building, 1018 Madison Ave., Montgomery 36104. Mark your calendars, June 1, “Growing in a 5-Gallon Bucket”, Roosevelt Robinson, ACES, Urban Regional Extension Agent, will present a program on “Growing in a 5-Gallon Bucket”. Grab some buckets and try your luck with this small space gardening technique. What fun! Use this with children. July 6, “Growing Turmeric & Drying Garden Herbs”, Mary McCroan, Advanced Master Gardener, will present a program on “Growing Turmeric & Drying Garden Herbs”. She will cover what is turmeric, how is it grown, and how is it used. She’ll also give suggestions for drying your own garden herbs. August 3, “Ferns for All Seasons and Environments”, Maria Pacheco, Horticulturist and Master Gardener, will present a program on “Ferns for All Seasons and Environments”. Come join us to find out about the many varieties of ferns available, where to plant them in your garden, and how to care for them. BRING A SACK LUNCH, FREE PROGRAM, WATER PROVIDED, For information, please contact the Montgomery County Extension Office 334.270.4133. Also visit www.capcitymga.org.
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Kayak Little River
Visit DeSoto State Park staff at the Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack to help you begin your scenic kayak trip up the West Fork of Little River. Rent sit-on-top kayaks to enjoy a peaceful flatwater paddle on Little River overlooking beautiful DeSoto Falls. Your adventure can be up to 4 miles round trip or as long as you want to make it! Paddle trips are perfect for individuals or groups. Life vests & paddles are provided. Park staff will help visitors launch the kayaks at the boat ramp above the A. A. Miller Dam. The paddle is flatwater heading upriver and back (not much current). No shuttles are available, visitors go as far as they wish & turn around to come back to the boat ramp. Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 AM- 6:00 PM. Monday-Friday: Appointment only. Must call ahead 24 hours and depends on staff availability. Fee: Single sit-on-top kayak: $15.00 per hour. Tandem(2 person) sit-on-top kayak: $25.00 per hour. Weight limit on single kayaks is 300lbs. Weight limit on tandem kayaks is 450lbs. Call Miller's Bend Paddle Shack (Saturday & Sunday): 256-634-0203. For any information, call DeSoto Lodge--256.845.5380. Please call 24 hours ahead for reservations. Cancellation of a kayak reservation has to be within 24 hours of reservation time to avoid cancellation fee. Location: DeSoto State Park-Fort Payne, Alabama. DeSoto Falls Picnic Area, 7 miles from the main park area of DeSoto State Park. Small watercraft such as kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, johnboats, etc. can be launched in the picnic area at the boat ramp. No charge except for the $4.00 per vehicle parking fee. www.alapark.com/kayak-little-river
The SummerNight Downtown Art Walk in Auburn Mark your calendars for Friday, June 10, from 6-10 p.m. and enjoy a creative evening in downtown Auburn! The SummerNight Downtown Art Walk is a free, entertainment district event, taking place in the streets of downtown Auburn. During the event, downtown merchants and restaurants stay open late, and people of all ages are encouraged to take advantage of this great opportunity to shop, dine and relax while enjoying the arts in downtown Auburn. Artists have their work on display and live musical entertainment is provided. Be sure to bring your children too as they have an opportunity to participate in arts and crafts, as well as enjoy other attractions that change each year! ABOUT SUMMERNIGHT: The SummerNight Downtown Art Walk is an arts festival that transforms downtown Auburn into its very own art district, featuring the work of local and regional artists, live musicians, street performers, great food, and children's activities. Each year, the Auburn Arts Association, City of Auburn, Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center (JDCAC), and Auburn Downtown Merchants Association host this event to highlight the many talented artists in our community in addition to promoting our unique downtown area. www.auburnsummernight.org
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Get ready to shop ’til you CROP, Eastchase Famers Market The 18th annual EastChase Farmers Market is now open Saturdays! The market will be located near Sephora and H&M. This year is going to be bigger and better than ever with all of your favorite vendors and some fun, new vendors! Shop Certified local vendors! The market has everything from produce and homemade jellies and jams to locally grown honey and the best boiled peanuts around! The market is held every Saturday through September 17, 7am - 12 noon in our new location! This event is rain or shine. Join us every last Saturday of the month for a Farmers Market celebration! Enjoy even more vendors with balloon animals, glitter tattoos, and a HUGE Garden Cart Giveaway! Farmers Market Celebrations will be held June 25, July 30, and August 27! VENDORS: Aplin Farms, Dixon Family Farm, Four R Farms, GiGi’s Fabulous Foods, H + S Enterprises, Incredible Health Farms, J + J Berry Farm / Coosa River Apiary, Kito Gardens LLC, Kona Ice, Leatherwood Nursery, M + M Farm, Mayim Farm, Mountain High Outfitters, Penton Farms, Popwell Farms, See Sandy’s Flowers, Shana’s Place, Wells Farms, Wise Farms, Yarbrough Homestead, Hickory Grove Farms, Indulgence Cooke Co., Pixel + Polly, LLC, Leo’s Produce. www.theshoppesateastchase.com
Prattville Kicks Off Creekwalk Concert Series The Prattville Creekwalk Concert Series will kick off Tuesday, June 14, with the R&B and hip hop sounds of Jeremy Flyy and Flight Control. Join us in Downtown Prattville by the Autauga Creek Dam at 6:30 p.m. for this free concert and enjoy music and fun for the entire family. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and sit back as Jeremy Flyy and Flight Control take you through the evening with great music under a beautiful sunset over the creek. Some of the shops and eateries of the Historic Downtown area will stay open a little later for your eating and shopping pleasure. There will be food vendors on site and coolers are welcome, but no alcoholic beverages or glass containers are allowed. Mark your calendars and make plans to come out for all four concerts of the series: June 14 – Jeremy Flyy and Flight Control, R&B and hip hop; June 28 – The Taylor Bagi Band, Country and Country Rock; July 12 – Stephanie Pickett, Motown and R&B; July 26 – For Heaven’s Sake, Christian Rock; These concerts are free and open to the public. For more information about this or other events in Prattville, contact the Special Events Office at 334-595-0850 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.
Birders Behold: Merlin Bird ID APP Is Now a One-Stop Shop for Bird Identification Bird ID Wizard—Step-by-step-Answer three simple questions about a bird you are trying to identify and Merlin will give you a list of possible matches. Merlin offers quick identification help for all levels of bird watchers to help you learn about the birds across the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. Identify Bird Songs and Calls-Sound ID listens to the birds around you and shows real-time suggestions for who’s singing. Compare your recording to the songs and calls in Merlin to confirm what you heard. Available for birds in the US, Canada, and Europe. More species and regions coming soon. Identify Birds in a Photo-Snap a photo of a bird, or pull one in from your camera roll, and Photo ID will offer a short list of possible matches. Photo ID works completely offline, so you can identify birds in the photos you take no matter where you are. https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/
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Central Alabama Aging Consortium (CAAC), Connecting You To Services CAAC coordinates services for the elderly and disabled populations and their caregivers in Autauga, Elmore, & Montgomery counties. The primary goal is to develop, coordinate, and provide services in the community that supports an active and independent lifestyle where those we serve can live and thrive. CENTRAL ALABAMA AGING CONSORTIUM (CAAC) is a part of a state-wide aging network that provides a variety of Home and Community based services to the region’s senior and disabled populations and their caregivers. CAAC coordinates services for these targeted populations in Autauga, Elmore, and Montgomery counties. The primary goal is to develop, coordinate, and support services in the community that promote an active and independent lifestyle where those we serve can live and thrive. CAAC is designated by the Alabama Department of Senior Services, the state unit on aging, as the Area Agency on Aging for the tri-county region and recognized by local governments, state agencies, and service providers as the lead aging organization of the Central Alabama area. The Consortium works with public agencies and private businesses to provide a full range of health, education and social services for older citizens and those with disabilities. Our goal is to foster independence and improve the quality of life for all senior citizens and their caregivers. For Your Free Phone Screening Call: (334) 240-4670 or toll free (800) 264-4680 or visit https://centralalabamaaging.org/
Caregiver of the Month Spotlight: Joyce
Daniels
Joyce comes to Home Care Assistance of Montgomery with over 15 years of caregiving experience. Joyce has proven to be one of the most reliable and compassionate caregivers to grace the doors of HCA. No matter the day or the hour, Joyce is always there to lend a helping hand. Every client that Joyce has worked with brags about how kind, respectful, thoughtful, prompt, dedicated, and empathetic she is.
“To make a difference in someone’s life you don’t have to be brilliant, rich, beautiful, or perfect. You just have to care” We appreciate your hard work and dedication, thank you for a Job Well Done!! For more information visit www.homecareassistancemontgomery.com
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Save the Date: SummerFest Returns June 30! The Town of Pike Road is excited to invite the community to SummerFest, a family-friendly fireworks show on June 30 at Rolling Hills Park and Cottonwood Golf Club, off Trotman Road. Parking will begin at 6 p.m. at Rolling Hills Park (6001 Rolling Hills Blvd) and Cottonwood Golf Club (7160 Byron Nelson Blvd). Please enter by Rolling Hills Blvd, from which you will be directed to these two viewing options. Family-friendly area with kids’ activities will be open from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at Rolling Hills Park. This includes kids’ activities, inflatables, music by a local DJ, local food truck vendors, and plenty of green space for your lawn chairs and picnic blankets.* Food trucks and yard games will also be available at Cottonwood Golf Club. Fireworks will light up the sky at dark! We hope you will join us to celebrate our nation, our freedom, and our community spirit on June 30. Don't forget to share your patriotic photos with us using #pikeroad4thofjuly & #mypikeroad! Picnics are welcome, but NO alcoholic beverages are permitted at SummerFest. Lawn chairs and picnic blankets are welcome, but NO tents are permitted at SummerFest.
Then Sings My Soul Join our Frazer family in the Worship Center as the choir leads us in an evening of worship, praise, and patriotism. We will honor our country’s heritage and glorify the Author and Finisher of our true freedom. Ice cream to follow in the Atrium! Frazer Worship Center, June 29, 2022 from 6:00 PM–7:00 PM
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to enroll www.macoa.org or call Traci Herndon, at 334-263-0532
Plant lovers rejoice! On June 4th @house.plant.collective is driving their plant bus to Montgomery and spending the afternoon Come by and check out their inventory of amazing house plants from 2-5pm. We will have $5 mimosas for you to sip on while you shop!
Hilltop Public House, 3 N Goldthwaite, Montgomery, AL
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"OLD" IS WHEN...Your sweetie says"Let's go upstairs and make love," and you answer, "Honey, I can't do both!" "OLD" IS WHEN...Your friends compliment you on your new alligator shoes and you're barefoot "OLD" IS WHEN...Going bra-less pulls all the wrinkles out of your face" OLD" IS WHEN...Getting a little action means I don't need to take any fiber today
READ IT - LOVE IT - SHARE IT BOOM! starts conversations and shares stories. Share your business with BOOM! readers. For more information call/text 334.324.3472 or visit www.riverregionboom.com
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BOOM! COVER PROFILE
Michael Castanza, Gramps "My wife Diane has been my constant companion, encourager and partner in this quest to follow God’s call to service".
This month’s cover profile is Michael Castanza. Michael has been involved in many of our lives through his experiences at The Sahara Restaurant, a Montgomery tradition for decades and as the Director of Operations for Chappy’s Deli, another Montgomery tradition, especially for families. Michael’s real legacy is in his family. He married Diane Deep in 1980 and they have 4 children and 12 grandchildren, all of which live and work in Montgomery. Michael’s church family is at St Bede Catholic Church, where he has spent nearly 6 years preparing and studying to be a Deacon in the Catholic Church. He will be ordained this month as a permanent deacon in the Roman Catholic Church, a long and rewarding journey. Michael has acquired fame as “Gramps” in the Chappy’s radio commercials he does with Jeff Barranco, and he’s proud to wear the moniker on his Chappy’s shirt sleeve! We’re also proud to share Michael’s story with you this month and if you’ve ever been a guest at Chappy’s, we think you’ll enjoy getting to know Michael as much as we have. See you at Chappy’s. woods all the way to the Eastern Bypass. There were cattle and horses on the property, and they bailed hay a couple times a year. This property provided a perfect area for my brother Anthony and I to grow up playing on. We rode bikes in the scramble tracks, hiked, explored, climbed trees, built tree forts and other stuff I still cannot mention.
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.? Michael: My father was career officer in the USAF and was stationed in Japan when I was born on Johnson AB Japan in 1960. A year later, we moved to Maxwell AFB, Montgomery after staying at the Davis Motel for the summer on Atlanta highway near Dalraida Road. We attended the old Michael and Diane St. Bede’s Catholic Church on Madison Avenue where McDonalds is now. Then, we moved to Texas for 3 years and then back to Maxwell AFB in 1965 (after another summer at the Davis Motel) for a “couple
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Wife, Diane and Michael
of years” which turned into 57 years so far. We moved from Maxwell in 1967 into a house in Bellehurst that backed up to “Marshall’s Field”. We lived in the city limits, but the city limit line was on our back property line. You could walk out our back yard and stay in the undeveloped fields and
My present home of 30 years sits on some of the same property that we used as our personal playground as kids. I went to school at Maxwell, St. Jude’s, St. Bede’s and Montgomery Catholic High School. I attended both AUM and The University of Alabama but received most of my education in the real world of The Michael and granddaughter Dorothy Sahara Restaurant
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
and Chappy’s Deli.
work directly for and with David and Jeff Barranco hiring GMs and helping them build teams that can increase sales and control labor costs and the cost of goods. What I learned at the Sahara working for my father-in-law, Michael Deep and my uncle-inlaw, Joe Deep, was how to serve all people and connect with guests turning them into lifelong customers and friends. I utilize these skills at
rehearsal parties, business luncheons and of course the legislature adjourned to the Sahara for many years. More laws and deals were sealed at the Sahara than on Goat Hill.
I met the love of my life, Diane Deep, in high school. She was a Godsend then and still is my much better The Sahara Restaurant, “Fine food half. We married expertly prepared since 1952 at the in 1980. We have 4 corner of Edgemont and Norman Bridge married children: Road, the cornerstone of Old Cloverdale.” Sam Castanza, District Our menu featured customer favorites Chief in the MFD, like West Indies Salad, crab claws, his wife Danielle and crabmeat au gratin, hand cut ribeye their 5 children Ella, steaks, fresh snapper and the most Ben, Thomas, Philip talked about item still today…Chicken Paula Castanza my mom, 92nd Birthday and Conor. Justin Supreme. (A boneless breast of chicken, 2017, just prior to her death. Castanza, President fried, topped Chappy’s of Montgomery Catholic Preparatory with Cream to help School, his wife Meghan and their 3 sauce and continue children, Vincent, Natalie and Salvatore. toasted their great Rachel Castanza Stewart, Vice President almonds history of of Marketing with Guardian Credit Union served on service and and her husband Michael and their a bed of community 3 children, Isabel, Annie and Michael continental involvement. Jr. Alex Castanza With Guild Mortgage rice). I always and his wife Martha and their daughter Somebody appreciate Dorothy. mentions the good The Sahara name This growing family is a joy and blessing. at least once that the a week and Barrancos BOOM!: You are the Director of half the have Operations for Chappy’s Deli, an eating conversations Michael broadcasting Montgomery Catholic HS football game with sons Alex and Justin. nurtured out tradition in the River Region and start with, since 1989 at Chappy’s in the River Auburn, especially for the Kids Eat Free “I miss the Sahara…and the Chicken Region. When I introduce myself stating offer many parents and grandparents Supreme.” I am with Chappy’s, people love. Would often respond with, “I love you share your Mike and Joe Deep taught me how to Chappy’s”. We strive to journey into make a living in the restaurant business. “serve with love” as we are the restaurant They taught what it means to be a called to do. business, servant, to connect and what Chappy’s including your Deli calls “serve with love”. The 21 years that I worked many years with my in-laws; the at The Sahara I also learned from the many professional Deeps, at the Sahara Restaurant in was a magical time Cloverdale and of my life. I was so now Chappy’s blessed to marry into a Deli? Daughter Rachel Stewart with Montgomery tradition. her son Michael Jr. The Sahara was a Michael: favorite, a landmark and so many I have spent my adult professional life people up and down the Eastern at Trane Air Conditioning, Transport Seaboard of the US have a personal Division Montgomery, then 21 years at attachment, history or memory of The Sahara Restaurant and the last 18 the Sahara. We hosted thousands years at Chappy’s Deli. I worked with of anniversaries, birthdays, Chappy’s Deli as the General Manager of celebrations of all sorts. We the Perry Hill Road store and for the last were the venue for so many after 13 years as the Director of Operations. I My son Sam teaching his son Philip about firearms. The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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waiters that the Barrancos met worked at the the difficulty head Sahara. Most on and successfully. worked there for Almost overnight as over 15 years and we were informed some over 30 and that our dining 40 years. Mr. John rooms would Ballard worked be shut down, from the opening they “invented” in 1952 until his Chappy’ style car death about 45 hop service. It was years later. He an instant success was a wise man and is still a part who influenced of our business me as a young model today. The man. I learned Barrancos dealt from our beloved with loss of team staff at the Sahara members and about food and government service, but more regulations in Son Alex and his wife Martha with Dorothy importantly about a professional life. I relish the times I see Mickey, Wags, and aggressive way. All team Shedrick and others who we spent so members that were available to many hours together at the Sahara. work were kept busy. We lost so many employees but are fortunately Montgomery moved away from that building back to pre-covid numbers. famous corner in Old Cloverdale. God has blessed Chappy’s with Business faded over the years. The great business and the best team Sahara thrived for over 50 years members. We have a diverse group providing fabulous service and wonderful of team members that are devoted food in a welcoming atmosphere. to Chappy’s, execute their jobs professionally and personally serve In 2003 when I moved to Chappy’s Deli, I with love each guest, day in day out. went from being the young guy If I got a to being the old bachelor's guy. Everything degree in is different at people at the Chappy’s except Sahara, then I serving others. at least have a The menu, master’s degree atmosphere, and in people from the dynamics Chappy’s. are all different. Under the It is a great Deli leadership of that caters to the David Barranco, masses and is I have grown loved by so many. personally and We have the best professionally team members at Chappy’s and the best Deli more guests ever. than I would if I had stayed Dealing with at the Sahara Covid at Chappy’s for another 21 Deli was years. challenging, but Daughter Rachel Stewart and husband Michael
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BOOM!: Michael, you are somewhat famous for the radio commercials you and Jeff Barranco have done over the years, could you tell us how that got started and what the impact has been on the Chappy’s Brand? How long have you and Jeff been doing these commercials? Michael: Jeff and I started our crazy commercials on the radio soon after I arrived at Chappy’s in 2003. I was and am still a believer in the power and affordable reach of radio. I don’t remember exactly how the radio presence started. I know that I had developed the belief at the Sahara that we could not afford TV in the frequency needed but we could afford the
Son Sam and his wife Danielle
repetition on the radio that was needed to get people’s attention and create top of mind awareness. Radio ads allow us to personalize and make our 60 second spots quirky and a bit goofy. The idea was at first to tease between Jeff and I as “young fella” and “gramps”. My Chappy’s shirts have Gramps embroidered on them. Jeff used to be young, and I was not a grandfather yet. Both have changed. Jeff has almost caught up in age and I am a grampa 12 times. They all call me Grampa after what my kids called my dad. David Barranco gets the credit for writing the memorable ads. Jeff and I work well together providing the voice. We have a good chemistry and I think it comes across on the radio. We see the scripts for the first time on the way to record The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
them. We all work together to fine tune and edit the scripts. We ad lib and joke around. It is a collaborative effort that works. It works well. The producers at the radio station work their magic and they are what they are. They are hard to ignore. They make a point. They get people talking and hopefully it generates business. We believe they are efficient and effective.
BOOM!: During the recent COVID 19 Pandemic, many businesses were challenged by the restrictions put on their businesses, especially restaurants. Chappy’s innovated with a very effective idea called “CarHop”, could you explain to our readers what that was and how important it was to your customers?
very convenient way to speed through and get a good meal. BOOM!: With a busy restaurant life, how do you like to spend time with family and friends? Describe your experience as a father and grandparent, what do the grandkids call you? Michael: We gather as family fairly often. We had 32 plus at our house recently at Easter. It poured rain. That did not stop the kids from playing outside, hunting eggs and having a great time with “the cousins”. Grampa may have hosed a few off before they were allowed back inside the house.
Michael: Carhop is an Son Justin, wife Meghan with Sal, Natalie old idea. I and Vincent. have heard of several places devoted to car hop in Montgomery’s history. Most before my time. Some places still BOOM!: Last year Chappy’s won the do it today, but it was a new idea 2021 Alabama Gold Retailer of the Year for Chappy’s. Award from the Alabama Retailer’s Association. One of the reasons cited for Basically, we serve you in your winning the award was that Chappy’s has car as if you are at a table. The a heart for community service, what was server (carhop) hustles out to it like to be honored in this way? Grands-11 of 12: Michael Jr. , Ella, Ben, Thomas, Vincent, your car and takes your order, Philip, Natalie, Isabel, Conor, Salvatore, Annie rings it up, and then brings you Michael: It is an honor. The Barrancos your food. are a fine family. We enjoy seeing the kids play ball, The guest can That is what mostly T-ball and baseball. Luckily this call ahead or attracted me to year we had three on one team playing order when they Chappy’s when T-ball at AUM. arrive. It is fast, the Sahara was still personal and fading. They I am Grampa to our 12 grandchildren. My socially distanced dislike the wife Diane is Lebanese, and they call her more than inside. limelight and Cittie. I am not sure that is how you spell It is convenient for recognition, but it. But she is loved by all the kids. anyone who does they deserve not want to get out the credit. We An activity that I do with Justin and of the car. It is here serve with love sometimes Alex is we announce the to stay. everyone in Montgomery Catholic Preparatory the community School football games on Friday nights As Covid raged, not because during the season on the radio and this was a needed it is good for on Facebook. This is a labor of love and required way business, but with Justin. He is the Eli Gold of the for many people because it is Knights, and I am there to say “it’s a to still be able the right thing big crowd tonight” when he takes a to eat out and to do. There is breath between brilliant descriptions stay healthy and great reward of the field, crowd and the game. We secure. As the being part of a broadcast on Praise 96.5 FM and on pandemic has successful team. Rachel and Michael Stewart’s children, L-R , Isabel, their app. People listen from literally all Michael Jr. and Annie waned, it is still a over the world via the app. It is a fun The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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adventure every game night. Montgomery Catholic has enjoyed success in many sports recently and done exceptionally well in football. It is fun to win. Go Knights!!
a period of application and discernment for over a year. Then the education and formation took 4 years of weekend BOOM!: You and your classes 10 wife are taking a trip times a year to Italy this month, for 4 years. tell us how that came We traveled about and what you to Mobile or are most excited met on Zoom about experiencing for about 40 Sams wife Danielle, with their son Thomas while in Italy? Saturdays or full weekends. Classes ranged from Michael: It will be a trip like we have bible study, theology, philosophy, canon never experienced. We will be going with law, social justice and more. We studied a dual group. A group of adults and a homiletics…. how to write and give a group of high schoolers. Our son Justin sermon, how to serve at mass and how is the leader/chaperone of the youths, to perform other duties that the deacon and our group of adults will be led by can do or assist with. The class work Mr. Pat Arensberg. We will go to Assisi required about 15 to 25 hours per month and Rome. The trip will last about 10 outside of class. The bottom line of the days and we will have a full schedule of deaconate is service. I look forward to churches and other historic places to this new chapter of our lives. Humbly I visit. There will be plenty of relaxing and ask you to please dining. It will be quite the pilgrimage. pray for my ministry. On June 11, 2022, I will be ordained a permanent deacon in the Roman Catholic church. I will serve in the Archdiocese of Mobile in my home parish of St. Bede the Venerable Catholic Church. Several from our class of 16 candidates are traveling together to Italy. The diaconate formation program has been the journey of a lifetime. My wife Diane has been my constant companion, encourager and partner in this quest to follow God’s call to service. BOOM!: Do you have time to be involved in community, civic or other activities? Faith based organizations. Michael: My schedule is full. I work a bunch and I spend time with family. The last 5 years my free time has been dominated by preparing to become a deacon in the Catholic Church. Starting nearly 6 years ago we went through
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new goals, etc. How would you describe this sense of renewal in your life? Any advice for the rest of us seeking renewal? What are your thoughts on retirement? Michael: What’s retirement? lol I used to think that all would be well if I just made enough money and was “successful”. My idea of success is different at 62 than it was at 35. My priorities and outlook have certainly changed. Some of this attitude adjustment has been taken care of by my parents, “father time” and “mother nature”. Some of my change in attitude is directly from spiritual growth from formation in the diaconate program. Wherever it came from my change in passions has been gradual but profound. Most of this is probably perfectly natural and normal. I am different and want different things, appreciate different things, long for different things now than at 35 years old. I don’t think this means I was passionate about the wrong things in my youth necessarily but my state in life is different today.
Health is paramount to continue in life. As I age and things BOOM!: How do you wear out, I am like to relax and wind humbled in what down from a full day I can accomplish of serving customers physically. Quite at Chappy’s? frankly I am surprised at these changes. It is Michael: Crazy, humbling. but I like to mow My priorities and the grass, weed passions have eat and clean up always been God, the yard. My dad family and job. But, taught me how to maybe not in the work in the yard. I correct order all the love the feeling of time. The younger accomplishment and I was the more I the exercise. emphasized the job. Five generations-New born Vincent Castanza, son Making money and of Justin Castanza, son of Diane Castanza, daughBOOM!: What are supporting my family ter of Barbara Deep, daughter of Dorothy Thomas you most passionate by all evidence was about? my top passion. If I could do life over, I might wish to put God first sooner and Michael: My God and Church. My family. trust in His will more completely and not My work. rely on my self-will. I hope young people reading this listen to this old man. Put BOOM!: Many people over 50 God first. Life depends on Him not us. experience a renewed sense of purpose, The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
BOOM!: What is it about living in the Montgomery/ River Region area that you like? What do we need more of? Michael: We moved here in 1965 for good evidently. My parents were nearly foreigners to these old Montgomery cliques. Dad was from Buffalo, N.Y. and mom was from the tiny town of Gallipolis, OH. They were Yankees…the worst kind. The ones who came here and stayed. They learned to love the south, Alabama and Montgomery.
Back, L-R, Michael, Cousin Mark Castanza, Brother Angelo, Brother Anthony Front, L-R, Mark's wife Pam, Susan Castanza (my only sister), Vicki (Angelo’s wife) , Valerie (Anthony’s wife)
Jump ahead 57 years and this is home to a bunch of Castanzas. I have been in business here; I married a girl from here and all our children and grandchildren were born here. They still live here and work here. This is home. I love Montgomery. What does Montgomery need? I will let the movers and shakers argue about that. We all need to respect each other and live peacefully with each other. BOOM!: As you’ve aged, how have your priorities changed? How would you describe what it means to “age well”? Michael: I heard a speaker/writer recently speak of the average life expectancy is about 80 years. He suggested instead of thinking about life in terms of before and after age 50, he suggested the notion of thinking of life after age 60 as the fourth quarter. (There is always the chance of over time). To me it makes sense and rung true with recent thoughts about priorities and age. Truthfully, we only have so many years left. So, my attitude towards each one of these precious years needs focusing and purpose. It is freeing in some sense. The urgency allows me the freedom
to act, choose, move on, change my mind, appreciate the moment and enjoy God’s blessings of today such as God’s presence, my wife, my children and grandchildren. A job well done. A new relationship. What can I do for others today? BOOM!: Give us three words that describe you? Michael: Sinner, sandwich maker and storyteller. BOOM!: Do you have any hobbies or other activities that grab your attention? Michael: In my youth I loved to backpack. I took all my children on different occasions to the Grand Canyon on back packing trips. Sam, Justin and I walked across the Grand Canyon, rim to rim, in 2003 in a single day. And of course, we walked back rim to rim, but taking 3 days on the return trip. The excitement was the fierce independence and survival with only what you had. It is no wonder self-will has plagued me all my life. BOOM!: What are some of the future challenges you’re contemplating for the Chappy’s Deli Brand? For yourself?
Michael: A new central commissary is under construction in rented space behind Fresh Market in the Perry Hill Place shopping center. We will cook, assemble and process goods there and distribute to all five stores. Items such as baked goods, sliced meats and cheeses and fresh chicken salad will be produced in the commissary and then delivered to each store daily. The goal is to offer a very consistent product at each location at a price that offers the most value for the customer.
The Chappy’s Deli brand is held secure by virtue of the leader’s fundamental belief in God and their trust in Jesus Christ guiding the company through the workings of the Holy Spirit. One of the first times all the Barrancos went out of town on their annual vacation I was feeling mighty proud being “left in charge”. I asked David Barranco was he nervous turning it all over to me. He very nicely said, “Oh, I’m not worried! I turned all this over to Jesus Christ a long time ago!” Believe it. Chappy’s Deli Brand is secure. �� We want to thank Michael for sharing some of his unique story with us this month. Michael's experience with two of Montgomery's traditional eateries was worth hearing about, they have added so much to our community's quality of life. If you want to share your thoughts with Michael, please email him at michael@chappysdeli.com or visit www.chappysdeli.com. Be sure and tell your friends at Chappy's you saw Michael in BOOM! We also want to thank DiAnna Paulk for her creative talents in photographing Michael for this month's cover. If you have questions, comments, or suggestions about our cover profiles, including nominating someone, please text them to Jim Watson at 334.324.3472 or email them to jim@riverregionboom.com.
READ IT - LOVE IT - SHARE IT BOOM! starts conversations and shares stories. Share your business with BOOM! readers. For more information call/text 334.324.3472 or visit www.riverregionboom.com
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The Mayor of BOOMTOWN
THE 35 CENT MIRACLE
By Greg Budell
"A true story from the Greg files"
I don’t live in luxury’s lap, but I have experienced it.
lawnmower. I mean the clippers.
I’ve owned many fine I missed a step! Before cars. I have had hot stone the clippers roared to life, massages at The Breakers he wrapped The Sheet in Palm Beach. I’ve flown around our necks. It was first class dozens of an old bed sheet, blue in times including a flight to color, with a thread count Paris during which I was of 12. When Dad shook allowed a brief moment out The Sheet, it would in the co-pilot’s seat on hang stiffly in mid-air a Boeing 747. That was before giving in to gravity. frickin’ amazing! I looked out the right-side cockpit I forgot The Light! The window and all you can Chair was placed under see is endless wing. It is an open bulb, probably then, and only then, that salvaged from a Japanese Greg protects the family dog and sister Jody from "The Clippers" you can appreciate the skill POW camp- a bulb that required to bring tons of jet, plus the could MAKE YOU TALK! experience in an otherwise happy souls on board, to a smooth landing childhood. on a relatively small strip of concrete. Dad supplied the rest of the fun with The Grip. As a do-it-yourselfer, he If Saturday night began as he watched The co-pilot’s seat itself is not must have feared shearing off one Lawrence Welk on TV, my brother and particularly luxurious. The view from it of our ears if we moved the slightest I were safe for that week. If he pulled is, and rather humbling at that. while his clippers roared about The Chair out in our basement rec our heads. I’m sure one of these area, we were doomed. Yet (in honor of Father’s Day) I’m tormentuous haircuts lasted no more First, The Clippers. My Dad owned the writing about my first rendezvous with than 15-20 minutes. When Pops only gasoline powered hair clippers in regal treatment- my first experience in would announce “almost done” that Chicago. They smelled like a confused a real, professional barber shop. meant “almost halfway”. On a hot fossil fuel, a cross between gasoline Saturday night in Summer, (no AC in and motor oil. I swear they had a My Dad was no cheapskate. A product our house at the time) 20 minutes on pull starter, too. The only appliance of the Great Depression, he knew The Box, under The Sheet, with the in our home that was louder was our poverty growing up. Real poverty. roar of The Clippers while enduring lawnmower. After serving in the Navy through 4 The Grip, well it just seemed like years of hellish Pacific campaigns, he forever. For maximum cutting leverage The joined Chicago’s building department Chair was topped by The Box. The after the war. He stayed at the job The finishing touch was provided wooden, splintery box. For easy post until retiring in 1982. He made a very by The Brush. Since a shower after haircut cleanup, we climbed on top nice living. My three siblings and I the haircut was mandatory, I never of the box wearing only our tightywanted for nothing. However, if he understood why Pops would insist whities. could save a buck by becoming Yoric on brushing the fallen hairs off our the Home Barber, why not? shoulders, but he did. Our family At the stroke of 6, just as Lawrence rake had softer bristles. Vit-vit-vit-vit! Welk and his bubble machine were His haircuts were a dreadful So, with raw shoulders, I’d gain my making happy on TV, Dad started the
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release and relish knowing my brother was next. NEXT! It was my favorite word on Saturday nights.
arrived. From that day forward, all my haircuts were professional. I had tasted luxury!
I was about 12 or 13, already anxious about a forthcoming Saturday night when Dad came up to me and handed me a couple singles. “You need a haircut, son”. Go up to Len’s Barber Shop and get one”.
Years later, visiting my folks, I recounted those haircut memories with Mom and Dad. My Father laughed so hard I thought he’d choke, but he did laugh. I dug into my pocket and handed him $1.50. “I never told you, Dad, but that haircut was only 35 cents and I tipped him 15 cents. I forgot to give you the rest”.
!!!!! Excited at first, as I walked to Len’s anxieties flared up. At least with Dad I knew what to expect. What if Len used louder clippers, stiffer sheets, a chair with nails and actually used his family rake to brush my shoulders? My fears evaporated the moment I entered Len’s Barber Shop on Pulaski Road in Chicago. It. Was. AIR CONDITIONED! There were comic books to read. The chair was leather, and Len pumped it up to the height he needed! Best of all, his clippers purred. The sheet around my neck was soft and draped gently down my body. It was over all too quicky. Len said the haircut was 35 cents. Dad said, “tip him”, so I gave him a nickel and dime. I floated home. Gregory Benjamin Budell had
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Pops smiled and said, “keep it, son, The Story was worth it”. I miss him so much. Happy Father’s Day! (If you have a comment on this column, email me at gregbudell@aol.com. It's still fun to hear from new people!) Greg Budell lives in Montgomery with his wife, Roz, Stepson, Sho, and dogs Hershey and Briscoe. He’s been in radio since 1970, and has marked 16 years in the River Region. He hosts the Newstalk 93.1FM Morning Show with Rich Thomas, Jay Scott & Jessie Lynn, 6-9 AM Monday-Friday. He returns weekday afternoons from 3-6 PM for Happy Hour with sidekick Rosie Brock. Greg can be reached at gregbudell@aol.com.
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Smart Health - Nature's Way - Tracy Bhalla
Food & Skin Oils There are many different and healthy options of oils to use that can double up as both cooking oils and oils to use on your skin. The following is a list of oils you can cook with and their relevant heat applications – this in itself tells you how stable (or not) the oil is. The higher the heat can be applied the more stable the oil. This knowledge is important when considering applying them on your skin, as unstable oils have a greater tendency to go rancid – and you don’t want rancid oil on your skin. The temperature given by each oil in the list is an indicator of the point at which the oil will start smoking. In general, the more refined an oil is, the higher its smoke point will be. A higher smoke point gives an oil a wide range of uses because you can use it at higher temperatures to fry, grill, deep-fry, and more. The refined oils most recommended for high-heat cooking, grilling, and deep-frying are “high oleic,” which means they are high in monounsaturated fats. Some oils, like olive oil, are naturally high in monounsaturated fat but are also high in polyunsaturated fats which makes them less stable for both super-high-heat cooking and longterm storage. Interestingly, food scientists have been working with sunflower seeds to develop an unrefined oil that is high in monounsaturated fats but low in polyunsaturated fats in hopes of creating a more shelf-stable unrefined oil that will be appropriate for a variety of uses.
HIGH HEAT: OILS FOR FRYING, STIR-FRYING, AND BROILING Avocado oil (refined) 480-520°F Safflower oil 450-500°F Canola oil 460-475°F Soybean oil 450°F Sunflower oil (refined) 450°F Peanut oil (refined) 450°F Coconut oil (refined) 400-450°F MEDIUM HEAT: OILS FOR BAKING AND SAUTEEING Hazelnut oil 425°F Grapeseed oil 390-420°F Sesame oil (refined) 410°F Macadamia oil 400°F Extra virgin olive oil (unrefined) 325-400°F Avocado oil (unrefined) 350-400°F Vegetable oil 400°F Canola oil 400°F LOW HEAT: OILS FOR GENTLE SAUTEEING Unrefined coconut oil 350-380°F Sesame oil (unrefined) 350 Sunflower oil (unrefined) 320°F Peanut oil (unrefined) 320°F Walnut oil (unrefined) 320°F Hemp Seed oil 300-330°F NO HEAT: FINISHING AND SALAD OILS Almond oil (unrefined) 225°F Flax seed oil (unrefined) 225°F
Of this whole list, there are only 3 that I would not be recommended to use on your skin. Can you guess which three? If
you guessed Canola oil, vegetable oil and soybean oil give yourself a pat on the back. Every single one of the other oils has benefits for your skin as well as for your nutrition. Let’s look at a few of my favorites. -Almond oil is full of vitamin E, and it’s a great source of magnesium, phosphorus, and copper. It is antioxidant-rich oil and is known for its free radical fighting abilities. It’s also anti-inflammatory and boosts immunity. Used internally – in cooking - almond oil might help you maintain healthy cholesterol levels and improve your memory, due to the high level of omega-3 fatty acids. It also may help lower your risk for diseases like cancer and heart disease. -Hemp Seed oil is perfect for most skin types as it can moisturize without clogging your pores. It can even help to balance out oily skin, hydrating it and regulating the skin’s oil production. One of the omega-6 fatty acids that hemp oil contains is gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory while simultaneously encouraging skin growth and new cell generation. It can help to calm inflammation and irritation on the skin, including acne and some conditions like psoriasis, while keeping the skin nourished and moisturized. It should also be noticed that it does not contain THC the psychoactive component in cannabis. -Avocado oil is extremely skin nourishing and calms inflammation; it is great for mature skin as it can help restore skins elasticity. The antioxidants in avocado oil may help to ease the symptoms of a sunburn. According to a 2011 Review Trusted Source, the vitamin E, beta carotene, vitamin D, protein, lecithin, and essential fatty acids in the oil can support healing and soothe the skin. So, to conclude, there are some awesome oils out there that you can do double duty with, both in the kitchen and on your skin, so why buy more than you need? Pick your favorites and use just those. That way you don’t run into the danger of them going rancid as you will use them up faster. Sounds like a plan to me!
email: nyrbhalla@gmail.com I web: us.nyrorganic.com/shop/tracybhalla I www. LogHouseAromatics.com Tracy Bhalla, independent consultant with NYR Organics and founder of LogHouseAromatics.com; after 25 years of using homeopathic remedies, it was time to take charge and complete my Aromatherapy Certification, which I achieved April 2020 and since founded LogHouseAromatics.com as a source for useful essential oil and general natural health information and a place to purchase certain products. email: nyrbhalla@gmail.com I am here to answer any questions you may have.
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