BOOM! June 2024

Contents June 2024

Publisher/Editor

Jim Watson

334.324.3472 cell/text jim@riverregionboom.com

Contributing Writers

Jeff Barganier

Tracy Bhalla

Lori Bowdoin

Greg Budell

Jashayla Burnett

Rachel Gresh

Myrna Marofsky

Anne Elizabeth McGowin

Susan Moore

Edd and Cynthia Staton

Nick Thomas

Brian Traylor

Tyler Wilson

Pam Windsor

Cover Photography

Photography by DiAnna Paulk photographybydiannapaulk.com

Advertising

Jim Watson, 334.324.3472 jim@riverregionboom.com

Jim

Growing Up Watson

A couple of weeks ago, my cousin Brent Watson sent me an email with a special request. I haven’t seen or talked to Brent in more than 60 years. He lives in Ohio and is a retired minister. His request was to see if we could take some time and talk about the history of the Watson Family. He was embarking on a new genealogy project and was in the process of connecting all the family dots, so to speak. We did talk and had a very lively conversation for about an hour, trying to get reacquainted and sharing our memories of our Watson Experience. I shared with him that in 1993, I decided to interview my dad, asking him questions about growing up a Watson. I told him I would send him copies of the recordings to help fill in some of his blanks and perhaps learn more about the Watson Clan.

I had not listened to those recordings for many years, so I thought before I sent them to my cousin, I would listen again just to make sure my dad hadn’t said anything I would be embarrassed by. Dad could be candid and frank in his conversations. As I listened to him share his growing-up experiences, it was obvious he had a terrific memory, full of details and recollections. I was impressed with the clarity of his thoughts and his ability to articulate experiences that were 70 years old.

As I reflected on his words, sense of humor, and wisdom, I was struck by how wonderful I felt to have him as my father. I was proud. I was also very thankful that I recorded the many hours of our conversations because they will always be a gift to me and my sons for years to come. I have a piece of his mind that I will hold dear, sometimes reflecting on how he shaped my thinking now that I’ve reached his age when we recorded these conversations. Thanks, Dad.

This month’s cover profile is Lori Bowdoin, who owns Blessings, A Christian Store located at 145 N. Memorial Dr., in Prattville. Blessings was born in 2011 inside the space where Lori’s husband, Larry, operated his successful printing business, Laser Copy. For many years, Lori continued to nurture her unique store until recently, when she and Larry decided to move and expand their businesses into their own retail space a few doors down in the same shopping center. The new Blessings, A Christian Store is a perfect place for the faithful to experience some much-needed retail therapy in a Christian atmosphere. Sometimes, as we age, the best way to age well is to pursue the things that matter most. Lori knows this, and we say well done! Grab a friend or two and take the 15-minute drive to Blessings and see for yourself... say hello to Lori for us.

We have much more information for your reading pleasure this month. Greg Budell shares an update on one of his most important goals, I was inspired and motivated! We also have features from Jeff Barganier, who went searching for a story, another feature about what it means to age gracefully, and a few suggestions on surprising ways to age well. Radio host Delilah talks about her new book and what she’s learned about love and loss. Then there’s the story of Retirement Travelers who decided to travel around the world and so far have visited 96 countries; that’s a lot of work and probably a whole lot of fun, too.

There’s plenty more to dip into this month, including a new Word Search worth $50 BOOM! Bucks if you can complete it and text me with your name for our monthly drawing. Congratulations to Richard Dent for being our May Word Search Winner! Thank you for taking a few moments of your valuable time to read the June issue and maybe share it with friends and family; your support means the world to us. Have a great Summer! Age Well, my friends.

Jim 334.324.3472 cell/text jim@riverregionboom.com

General Surgery at Jackson Hospital

Wesley Barry, Jr, MD

1722 Pine Street, Suite 904 Montgomery, AL 36106

334-265-9225

Manuel Caceres, MD 1722 Pine St., Suite 201 Montgomery, AL 36106

334.264.8741

Jad Chamieh, MD 1722 Pine Street, Suite 201 Montgomery, AL 36106 334-293-6858

Brian Gary, MD

1722 Pine St., Suite 201 Montgomery, AL 36106 334.293.6858

Parham Mora, MD

554 McQueen Smith Road N. Prattville, AL 36066

334.361.6126

A big misconception about general surgeons is that they are generalists and not specialists. In fact, they are quite specialized in their training, but this specialized training is over a very broad area. Their training may include rotating from different areas such as trauma, colon-rectum, plastic surgery, endocrine, critical care, cardiac, or transplant.

General surgeons don’t just operate on patients, they also evaluate patients who are sick before surgery, and oversee care after surgery. Most surgeries in a hospital are performed by general surgeons. They are privileged to follow a patient’s full journey from diagnosis and treatments through recovery. This allows general surgeons to connect with their patients.

A general surgery practice depends on the needs of patients around them. Many will also Sub-Specialize. Examples are breast, trauma, cancer and weight loss surgery. Our general surgeons have expertise in multiple types of surgery, including:

• Abdominal surgery • Bariatric (weight loss) surgery • Cancer surgery • Digestive tract biopsy or resection • Endocrine system assessment and repair • Head and neck surgery • Hernia repair • Pediatric surgery • Trauma surgery

Whenever possible, we use minimally invasive surgical techniques. These methods allow us to use smaller incisions that could shorten your hospital stay and speed your recovery time.

We encourage you to talk openly with our surgeons. Consider asking your doctor:

Is this an outpatient or inpatient surgery? What are the possible complications of this surgery? What kind of anesthesia will be used? Will you need any special preparation prior to surgery? Do you need to stop taking any medications before surgery? What type of care will you need at home? When can you expect to return to your regular activities? What can you do to help speed your recovery?

For more information visit www.jacksonclinic.org/specialty-care/general-surgery/

How Do YOU Define Freedom? Show Us at Upcoming Art Show

& Sale

What does freedom mean to you? Show us at The Art of Freedom Art Show & Sale from June 16 - July 14 at the Pike Road Arts Center (944 Wallahatchie Rd)! Freedom is defined as, "the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint," but we want to see how YOU define freedom.

Artists can submit their art for The Art of Freedom Art Show & Sale beginning on June 1. There is no fee for entry and submissions can be in any medium. Art must be gallery wrapped or ready to hang (framed with a wire), and all fragile art should be protected accordingly. Artists should submit the following information with their artwork: name of artist/artwork, medium, price, contact information, artist bio, and preferred payment method.

Drop off your art during PRAC open hours:

• Saturdays: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

• Sundays: 1 - 4 p.m.

Or email Patty Payne at patty@pikeroad. us to schedule a different drop off time!

The Pike Road Arts Center is located at 944 Wallahatchie Rd, under the water tower. It is home to the Water House Gallery, studio space, and a variety of events presented by the Pike Road Arts Council, an ENHANCE initiative committee. For more information, please contact Pike Road Arts Council Coordinator Patty Payne by emailing patty@pikeroad.us.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Announces 2024-25 Season

Seven-production slate includes A Christmas Carol, Shakespeare’s Hamlet, and The Wizard of Oz

Alabama Shakespeare Festival will put up seven productions in its 53rd season, featuring stories that probe humanity’s courage, conscience, and conviction. ASF proudly continues its mission of building community by engaging, entertaining, and inspiring people with transformative theatrical performances and compelling educational and community programs.

“The upcoming season celebrates stories for all ages about our humanity through laughter, sentimentality, and strength,” said outgoing ASF Artistic Director Rick Dildine.

Opening the season is Ken Ludwig’s sentimental, biographical Dear Jack, Dear Louise. Dildine’s full-scale adaptation of A Christmas Carol takes over the Festival Stage in a triumphant celebration of the holiday season for the whole family. In the new year, we face fear and change with love and humor in The Watsons Go To Birmingham — 1963. Spring brings the comic swashbuckling of Ken Ludwig’s Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood in a mini-rep with William Shakespeare’s most puzzling tragedy, Hamlet. From the 2023 Southern Writers Festival, and the first of ASF’s New Southern Canon, emerges the world premiere of Donnetta Lavinia Grays’ Kudzu Calling. Our season concludes with the RSC’s musical and MGM filmlike adaptation of The Wizard of Oz on the Festival Stage.

“We so appreciate the support and dedication of our returning — and new — subscribers and patrons,” said ASF Executive Director Todd Schmidt. “We hope to see them all back in Season 53 for the exceptional work ASF is known for.”

Season 53 subscription renewals are under way. New subscriptions go on sale June 28, 2024. Single tickets go on sale July 22. Subscriptions and tickets are only available through the ASF Box Office at 334-2715353 and at ASF.net

ASF continues its opportunities for the community to further engage with theatre through SchoolFest student matinees with cast and crew talkbacks, ASF Insights (deep dives with theatre and subject matter experts to enhance the patron experience), the always popular Bard Talks with theatre historian Dr. Susan Willis before each Shakespeare production, and community discussions around themes in its productions.

The Southern Writers Festival of New Plays will enter its 24th year of developing new works about the South, with public readings on June 15, 2024, in conjunction with the world premiere of Zelda In the Backyard, Elyzabeth Gregory Wilder’s play developed through the 2022 festival.

Jan's Beach House Grill

Share your comments and read hundreds more from fans of Jan's at www.facebook.com/JansBHG

Opens at 11 am, Great Food! DAILY MEAT & THREE

Served at Lunch along with our regular menu from 11AM - 3PM Lunch & Dinner! Live Music! 850 Eastern Blvd, Montgomery, AL 334.277.8300

200 OR BUST!

"A true story from the Greg files"

I have a remarkable body.

It has been through some serious trials and won them all. I may be the only person you know who’s a 3-time survivor of vehiclepedestrian collisions, all of them significant. When I tell people this, they say “remind me not to cross the street with you!”. My retort?

At least I live!

A Chicago Transit Authority bus hit me flush on a downtown street when I was 16. It occurred during spring football practice, so I was in good shape, but the bus didn’t even break a bone! At age 37 a pickup truck dragged me down the length of a concrete wall in my condo parking lot. It resulted in a very painful rotator cuff injury (ending the pitching career I never had but still dreamed of) that required surgery. Still, no broken bones. The 3rd time a small Honda running a stop sign launched me 15 feet into a busy highway. That driver (here illegally) gave me a compound fracture in my left arm but 2 months later I was back playing mediocre golf!

of the shirt off his dopey stick, he saw me shirtless, (and crazed at the close call) and walked away muttering “you should be more careful”. How Florida was that? In fact, the only driver who hit me, and cared, was the bus driver.

I am again challenging my gracefully aging bod.

There was almost a 4th. I loved rollerblading in my 40s and once coasted into a pedestrian crosswalk. A hotshot in a foreign car cut in front of me, blocking my path. I deftly maneuvered around the back end of the car but he had one of those super-long antennas which caught my shirt and tore it off. A typical Florida man, he was pissed I bent his stupid antenna. As I was gathering the remains

At press time, I’ve lost 51 pounds from my peak weight, and I have BOOM Magazine to thank for it!

Readers may recall a piece I wrote in the October issue about a body sculpting technology called “Cryo-Contouring”. It helped me shrink enough around the waist to finally (and comfortably) wear

a $100 pair of “dress sweat pants” I’d had for 10 years. Six months later, those dress sweats wouldn’t stay up if I threaded an anaconda through the belt loops.

The Cryo-contouring was a start. I wanted more of less of me.

My new goal is to get below 200 pounds for the first time this century.

Perhaps other BOOMers can relate to this observation? In the past when I’ve taken to serious workout regimens that produced a fit, trim me, those who noticed lavished praise: “Keep it going, Greg! Whatever you’re doing, it’s looking good!”. At my current age, people who notice the substantially trimmer me say things like: “Wow, Greg! You’ve dropped a lot of weight! Are you sick?”.

It is presumed that BOOMers who try and succeed at losing weight must be getting help from some terminal illness. I can assure you the only sickness I suffer is over the condition of our country.

Last October, I had my annual exam with my great personal physician, Dr. Dennis Woodling. It was days after the Miracle of the Dress Sweat Pants. I have been cursing his scale for years! A few years back, it had me at 262. Much too heavy! This past annual, I was at 238, down but disappointing.

I’m not one for fad diets, so I invented my own. I started buying microwavable cut-leaf spinach. I eat a bag every

Greg in his hoodie and "The Bag"

day, split between lunch and dinner. I genuinely like it (with a little salt). Sometimes I’ll enjoy a chopped tomato with a teaspoon of oil and vinegar dressing, and if I add meat, it’s a few slices of grilled chicken or beef.

I dusted off a pair of 15-pound dumbbells and started walking with those, continuously doing curls, all the time challenging myself to do more each time.

I also pulled out what I call “The Bag”. They are sold as Solar Suits. These silvery boil-bags help you sweat. A lot. I wear a hoodie over the bag as I orbit the neighborhood. This way I don’t look like a walking leftover that escaped my refrigerator.

Last week, I saw Dr. Woodling for my 6 month follow up. My nemesis, the office scale, read 211 pounds! My blood tests were all within normal range! He did suggest I quit smoking, but he’s been telling me that for 17 years. I’m sure I look like a human oxymoron on my rest breaks, dripping sweat and puffing on a cancer stick. Oh well. These intense workouts have allowed me to stop taking almost all prescription medications.

I have added crunches to my regimen, and I suppose I overdo those, too. I average about 300 a day, including “glute crunches”. BOOMers bemoaning BFS (buttflattening syndrome) take note- you can restore it. Even at our age, you can get “cuts” in your abdomen!

People ogle me on my daily walks.

I don’t mean “ogle” as in “hey sexy”. I do get looks from people because I look semi- insane, marching down the street working to drop that next pound. Performing this ritual in the Alabama heat will draw puzzled glances from people who enjoy calling 911 for others.

In fact, every 800 reps I’ll set the weights down on the curb and relax for a minute. Perhaps because my hair is gray, or because I am sweating volcanically, people in cars will stop, roll down the window and ask if I need help! I smile and reassure them I’m fine because their well-intentioned kindness touches me.

Having come this far, I am going for Gold this Olympic year. I plan to get under 200 pounds, perhaps 190. I’ve regained a closet full of almost new shirts and pants and love feeling this good!

At the risk of sounding over-confident I will get there too. I will sneer at Dr. Woodling’s obnoxious scale! I will reverse the aging process! I will wear a 34-waist pant again!

You might say, it’s in the “bag”!

Share your thoughts on my experiences or other comments via email at gregbudell@aol.com. It's always fun to hear from BOOM! readers.

Greg Budell lives in Montgomery with his wife, Roz, and dog, Brisco. He's been in radio since 1970, and has marked 17 years in the River Region. He hosts the Newstalk 93.1FM Morning Show with Rich Thomas and Jay Scott, 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

Riddle Answers: 1. What stairs? You live in a one-story house 2. You take footsteps and leave footprints 3. A Penny 4. David 5. Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow 6. 'Just one word' 7. The living room 8. Your name 9. Fire 10. The letter M 11. There are nine Mustards in the family. Since each daughter shares the same brother, there are six girls, one boy, and Mr. and Mrs. Mustard 12. A piano 13. A mirror 14. A die (dice) 15. An egg

Greg's barbells at rest

One cicada, two cicada, three cicada, four – and

They’re back, or soon will be. A multibillion-strong army of cicadas will emerge from their subterranean homes this June and descend on more than a dozen states in the Midwest and Southeast including, to a lesser extent, Alabama. Just how many of the noisy insects the average local homeowner can expect to see (or hear) remains to be seen (or heard).

The last massive cicada invasion of the region occurred in the early 2000s when George W. Bush was president, the Mars Rover landed on our neighboring planet, and a postage stamp cost 39 cents. Cicada nymphs from those years will eventually begin tunneling back to the surface once the ground temperature reaches a toasty 64 degrees.

a whole lot more

bats, or squirrels will eventually lay eggs, then die. After hatching, the larvae will burrow back some 8 inches into the ground and won’t be heard from again for another decade or so.

This remarkable natural event has occurred many times before with some impatient cicadas emerging annually while others are periodical – popping up every 13 or 17 years having spent a dreary decade or more buried underground. But this year, two different large batches of cicadas will emerge at about the same time which is much rarer.

Technically, the batches are referred to as broods, probably because the nymphs are awake all those years in their dark subterranean prison feeding on tree root sap, digging tunnels, and brooding about their lot in life. But after emerging, the insects will begin to eat, drink, and be merry (i.e. breed).

Climbing trees to shed their skins, the emerging insects will sprout glorious, transparent wings and fly off in search of a companion. Females that manage to dodge hungry predators such as birds,

Cicadas are best known for making an ear-piercing noise, a courtship song of the male. The eerie sound is produced from a rapidly vibrating drum-like membrane on the insect’s abdomen. The frequency and tone of their calls vary with temperature and time of day, and different cicada species produce unique calls.

More annoying than destructive or dangerous, cicadas are not hazardous to humans. They don’t sting or bite, but small spikes on their feet can scratch if handled. And because their aerobatic skills are somewhat erratic, the large awkward insects can appear from nowhere, perhaps flying clumsily into one’s hair which can startle women, children, and probably a few macho males, too.

However, the greatest danger may be to pets. Some dogs and cats can’t resist a crunchy cicada snack, but the hard

exoskeletons may lodge in their throats. And even if an animal does manage to swallow the tough-skinned critters, they are more difficult to digest than my late Aunty Sarah’s angel food cake which was devilishly dry.

Fortunately, cicadas don’t have the appetite of their more ravenous airborne cousins – locusts – that have plagued humanity since ancient times by consuming even more food than a college football team invading their local Golden Corral. Cicadas merely suck the sap from maple, oak, fruit, and other deciduous trees, perhaps killing a few branches in the process, although large numbers can be more destructive, particularly to citrus orchards.

Most experts recommend doing nothing if only a few cicadas take up residence in your yard. But if you’re not picking up good vibrations from your noisy backyard guests, don’t be tempted to follow the example of the Bloomington, Indiana, man who devised his own eradication solution during the 2004 incursion by eating several dozen cicadas. He developed an allergic reaction and required hospitalization.

With an adult lifespan of about a month, however, the cicadas will soon disappear – their offspring returning to their underground seclusion until sometime in the 2030s or 2040s. Just who will be president then, whether humans will be living on Mars, or if we will even still be mailing letters, remains to be seen.

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

Riddles To Share and Make You Think

Language may drastically change over time, but many of the ways in which we use it have stayed the same, a phenomenon proven by ancient riddles and “yo mama” jokes discovered on Mesopotamian and Babylonian tablets dating back thousands of years. Indeed, it seems probable that for as long as we’ve been communicating with each other, we’ve been finding ways to keep things interesting with wordplay, good-natured razzing, and riddles.

Though linguistic trickery is found in all corners of the globe, the word “riddle” originated from the Common Germanic verb rēdaną, which means “to interpret or guess.” Within the definition lies the explanation for what makes riddles so appealing and hilariously frustrating: There are often many potential answers, but it’s the guesser’s responsibility to outsmart the riddler by choosing the right one.

Riddles are part brainteaser, part joke, and part exploration into the subtle nuances of language. We challenge you to guess the correct answers to these head-scratching riddles, and then turn to page 17 to see whether you’re right.

1.You live in a one story house made entirely of redwood. What color would the stairs be?

2.The more you take, the more you leave behind. "What am I?"

3. What has a head, a tail, is brown, and has no legs?

4. David's father has three sons: Snap, Crackle, and _____?

5. Can you name three consecutive days without using the words Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday?

6. Re-arrange the letters, O O U S W T D N E J R, to spell just one word. What is it?

7. What room do ghosts avoid?

8. What belongs to you but is used more by others?

9. I am not alive, but I grow; I don't have lungs, but I need air; I don't have a mouth, but water kills me. What am I?

10. What comes once in a minute, twice in a moment, but never in a thousand years?

Riddle Answers: Page 17

11. Mr. and Mrs. Mustard have six daughters and each daughter has one brother. How many people are in the Mustard family?

12. What has 88 keys, but can't even open a single door?

13. I make two people out of one. What am I?

14. What has six faces, but does not wear makeup, has twenty-one eyes, but cannot see?

15. What is more useful when it is broken? Source: www.riddles.com

Paying for Aging in Place Support: Part 2

In Paying for Aging in Place Support: Part 1, we highlighted some pitfalls of aging in the home. We also covered assistance that Medicare may provide (for hospital visits, in patient Rehab, and home health) and long term care insurance coverage, when eligible. In Part 2, we cover one type of Medicaid assistance for individuals choosing to age in their homes.

Eligibility

For Medicare Assistance Is Less Complicated Than Eligibility For Medicaid Assistance

Medicare is definitely a more common source of funds for medical insurance. You qualify if you are a citizen of the United States or have been a legal resident for at least 5 years and you are age 65 or older AND you or your spouse has worked for at least 10 years (or 40 quarters) in Medicarecovered employment. (See qualifications related to a medical diagnosis below under “Medicare v. Medicaid Basic Program”.)

Medicaid has few options for in home if an individual qualifies. Medicaid primarily covers low-income children, disabled adults, nursing home residents and lowincome people who also have Medicare. Medicaid’s eligibility for long term care programs to help people who are aging in place is LIMITED. It is important to gauge expectations for eligibility/accessibility before we discuss this type of Medicaid waiver for the elderly at home.

Medicare

v

Medicaid Basic Programs

Again, these programs are very different in eligibility and access. We are reiterating the definitions of Medicare and Medicaid as many people confuse them.

Medicare is a federal program to provide medical insurance, primarily, for people age 65 or older. It also provides health insurance to disabled individuals under age 65. These individuals must have received Social Security Disability benefits for 24 months or have End Stage Renal Disease, (generally 3 months after a course of regular dialysis begins or after a kidney transplant) or Amyotropic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease), generally immediately upon collecting Social Security Disability benefits.

Medicaid is a federal and state program that provides medical assistance to low-income people and persons with disabilities. Medicaid offers medical assistance to several categories that meet their criteria, including but not limited to children, parents and caretaker relatives (applicant must have a child under the age of 19 who is a close relative and who lives in the home), pregnant women, and the elderly and disabled. Medicaid also offers waiver programs that provide an alternative to institutional care (skilled facility).

Medicaid Historically - Long Term Care

Each state must implement their Medicaid program within the federal guidelines, but each state has flexibility. Alabama is one of the strictest states in the implementation of its Medicaid program. Medicaid recipients must meet income and resource requirements on the financial side and must qualify for the medical side as well.

While traditionally Medicaid’s long term care coverage was to pay for nursing home beds for individuals that met the financial and medical eligibility, there is another program that eligible individuals may consider when aging in place. It is the home and community-based waiver (“HCBW”).

Medicaid HCBW - Elderly And Disabled Waiver*

This waiver assists individuals who are at risk of institutional care but hope to remain in a community setting. There are enrollment limits of this waiver and in many counties, there is a waiting list. Only 15,000 people may be enrolled on this waiver in the state of Alabama. It offers eligible patients a wide range of care choices and increased opportunities to receive services at home or in the community.

*Elderly And Disabled Waiver Requirements

**INCOME Limit: $2,829 month

**RESOURCE Limit: $2,000 as of the first day of each month.

Services may include:

Case management, homemaker services, personal care, respite care (skilled and unskilled), adult day health (with or without transportation), adult companion services,

home delivered meals, medical supplies, skilled nursing, pest control, personal emergency response system (installation and monthly), assistive Technology/Durable Medical Equipment, medical supplies, supervisory visits and home modifications.

Contact: Alabama Department of Senior Services at 1-800-243-5463 to apply.

Other HCBW Waivers

There are several other HCBWs that provide services for individuals wishing to remain at home, but the others are targeted to individuals with intellectual disabilities, limited complex medical conditions described by each waiver and/or a specific medical diagnosis. These other waivers have more restrictive enrollment numbers than the elderly and disabled waiver. None of these are a substitute for someone requiring 24/7 nursing care. Many of the waivers only allow assistance a few days a week for a few hours a day.

Married Couples and Medicaid

If you are married and only one spouse may need a HCBW or Medicaid in a skilled facility, then there may be some protection for the spouse not receiving Medicaid (“community spouse”). Please make sure you consider this carefully at an earlier stage in your Medicaid evaluation process, so that you do not limit the potential assistance for a community spouse. See the note below with respect to income and resource limits:

**Medicaid allows a qualified income trust/ Miller trust if the applicant’s income exceeds the Medicaid limit. Medicaid also offers some protection for married persons who do not need Medicaid services in the form of a skilled facility or a HCBW.

Senior Law Solutions, LLC offers a variety of opportunities to assist individuals and their families with aspects of Elder Law Care, Estate Planning, and Life Care Planning with individualized plans. If you have questions or want to learn more visit www.seniorls.com or call 334.758.9400

Alabama State Bar Requires the Following: “No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

Responsible Attorney: Anne Elizabeth McGowin.

CHICKEN CAESAR PASTA SALAD

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad recipe is tossed with my favorite Caesar dressing, lots of Parm, and the yummiest garlicky breadcrumbs.

Ingredients:

PASTA SALAD INGREDIENTS:

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound uncooked pasta (I used farfalle)

3 Romaine lettuce hearts (12 ounces), roughly chopped

1 1/2 cups Caesar dressing* Parmesan cheese, for topping

GARLIC BREADCRUMBS INGREDIENTS:

1 tablespoon butter

2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs

fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper

Instructions:

< Prep the pasta water. Bring a large pot of generouslysalted water to a boil over high heat.

< Cook the garlic breadcrumbs. Meanwhile, melt the butter over medium heat in a large sauté pan. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring frequently. Add the breadcrumbs along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden. Transfer the breadcrumbs to a bowl and set aside. Wipe down the sauté pan briefly until clean.

< Cook the chicken. Season the chicken generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Using the same sauté pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through and no longer pink inside. Transfer the chicken to a clean cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes, thinly slice it into bite-sized pieces.

< Cook the pasta. Cook the pasta in the salted water until just al dente. Strain the pasta through a colander, then rinse it with cold water until chilled.

< Toss the pasta salad. Add the pasta, lettuce, chicken and Caesar dressing to a large mixing bowl and gently toss until evenly combined.

< Serve. Serve immediately, garnished with the garlic breadcrumbs, lots of Parmesan cheese, and a few extra twists of black pepper. Or refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 4 hours and then serve chilled.

Source: https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/chicken-caesar-pasta-salad

By Brian Traylor

Metal Detecting, for History's Sake

Hi, my name is Brian Traylor, and I was born and raised in Montgomery, AL. I love my hometown and I love to metal detect and for the last 25 years I’ve spent a large amount of my time exploring both the city of Montgomery and its surroundings. My venture into metal detecting was sparked by a deep-rooted passion for history and a desire to forge tangible connections with the past. Growing up surrounded by the rich tapestry of Montgomery's history, I found myself drawn to the idea of exploring its hidden treasures beneath the surface. This curiosity ignited my love affair with metal detecting, and I've never looked back since.

soldier’s uniform at a short lived 1814 boundary dispute fort with the MuskogeeCreek Indians. Further research concluded the button dated back to the Revolutionary war and was reused on the uniform when it was dropped in 1814.

bottle to the Dr. Richard Harris House which can be toured by appointment located in the Centennial Hill district downtown Montgomery.

A significant portion of my metal detecting endeavors revolves around research. Earlier this year, I had the privilege of connecting with the anthropology professor at Auburn University and contributing numerous artifacts I unearthed from an 1814 fort in Tallassee for cataloging and analysis. Among my discoveries were uniform buttons, musket balls, various hand forged tools, a piece of a musket revolver and a quaint metal eagle. This also raised awareness about the site and entails plans for a future grant application, historical marker submission, and excavation. Can you imagine living in that era? Our nation was incredibly youthful in 1814 and only 38 years old and here in my hands I’m holding a button that fell off a US 3rd Infantry

Some other finds that I’ve unearthed include civil war belt buckles in Lowndesboro, diamond rings at Lake Martin, and coins dating back to 1834 in Montgomery. However, what truly brings me joy are the items I've been able to reunite with their rightful owners. Take, for example, the class ring I found at Lake Martin; through Facebook, I managed to trace its owner all the way to Missouri and return it. Another example is the bracelet I discovered at Wetumpka Middle School, inscribed with a name. I was able to successfully return it to its rightful owner, who had lost it decades earlier. More recently, while metal detecting with my son, we stumbled upon a bottle dump. Among the treasures was a distinctive prescription bottle with an intact label inside the bottle which was filled by Dr. Richard Harris. Dr. Harris was a captain with the famed 99th Squadron Tuskegee Airmen during WW II and one of Montgomery’s first African American Pharmacists who also housed the Freedom Riders in 1961. I donated the

I'd argue that the primary hurdle in metal detecting lies in discovering fresh locations to explore. If anyone in the Montgomery vicinity could grant me permission to search old sites or even sites with historical significance, I'd be honored to search them for you. Please feel free to contact me at briantraylor46@gmail.com. Preserving artifacts within their original context is important to me and the owners can keep the items. Essentially, I relish the excitement of the hunt.

Metal detecting and history are profoundly important because they connect us to our past. Each discovery made through metal detecting is a piece of history that has been lost to time, waiting to be unearthed and shared. These artifacts offer a glimpse into the lives, cultures, and events of those who came before us, enriching our understanding of human history. Moreover, metal detecting helps preserve history by rescuing items that might otherwise remain hidden or be destroyed. This hands-on interaction with history not only fosters a deeper appreciation for our heritage but also inspires future generations to continue exploring and valuing the stories of our ancestors.

Brian Traylor

Prescription from Dr. Harris

Artifacts unearthed from 1814 fort in Tallassee

Buckle found through metal detecting

Alexander City Jazz Festival!

For over 30 years, friends have gathered in downtown Alexander City, Alabama to celebrate their love for live music and good times. Born out of a 100year birthday celebration for Frohsin’s Department Store, Alexander City Jazz Festival has grown to become one of the southeast’s longest-running, free-toattend music festivals with a guest list of musicians and bands that highlight the community’s passion for fun and entertainment. Featuring three bands in downtown Alex City’s Strand Park on Friday and three more at The AMP on Lake Martin on Saturday night, Jazz Fest offers a mix of sounds spanning the musical spectrum from blues, jazz, funk and soul to Americana, bluegrass and rock-n-roll. Whether you’re a first-timer or a Jazz Fest lifer, we welcome you to the latest version of Alexander City’s very own Jazz Festival. For more info and tickets visit www.alexcityjazzfest.com

ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS

By Rachel Gresh

8 Surprising Tips for Living a Longer Life

Some common advice for living a longer life is sound yet obvious: eat fruits and veggies, stay active, get enough sleep, prioritize your mental health, etc. Other bits of wisdom, such as the “Werewolf Diet,” which asks you to fast during certain phases of the moon to cleanse your body, is neither. But what if we told you there are other things to focus on that aren’t as obvious as the former or as ridiculous as the latter? What about playing cards, learning ballroom dancing, eating chili peppers, and reading novels? These doctor-approved secrets to longevity are sure to surprise you.

Make New Friends

Medical researchers say “the more, the merrier” regarding friendships, as social connections benefit our mental and physical health. Studies show having solid relationships can significantly increase longevity, regardless of age, gender, and health status. “Our relationships form a lattice of support that constitutes the largest single factor in the overall well-being of most people,” says Stanford research scholar Steven Crane.

Play More Games

You’re never too old to play! Brain teasers, crosswords, trivia games, and puzzles stimulate cognitive function, improving attention, memory, response time, and logical reasoning. These activities are especially beneficial for older adults, as maintaining cognitive function is a predictor of health and longevity. Playing games with friends and loved ones has the added benefit of providing a social connection that, as we know, can improve your overall health.

Spice Things Up

According to research by the American Heart Association, eating chili peppers is associated with lower instances of cancer and cardiovascular disease. One reason may be that chili peppers have antiinflammatory and antioxidant properties thanks to capsaicin, the chemical that makes them spicy.

Read More Books

A study published by Yale University revealed that bookworms live two years longer than people who don’t read. Researchers separated participants over 50 into three groups: non-readers, those who read three-and-half hours a week or less, and those who read three-and-half hours or more each week. After tracking them for 12 years, they found that the group who read more than threeand-half hours weekly lived 23 months longer than those who didn’t read at all, regardless of gender, wealth, education, or health.

Spend Time With Your Pets

A study by the American Heart Association revealed that owning a pet reduces mortality rates by 24% on average due to a lengthy list of health benefits, including lower blood pressure and improved mental health. This applies to any kind of pet—cats, dogs, guinea pigs, lizards, you name it. Additionally, tending to animals outdoors, such as walking a dog or riding a horse, has the added health benefit of exercise.

Hit the Dancefloor

You don’t need to be a pro on Dancing with the Stars to enjoy the mental and physical benefits of dancing. Dancing lowers cortisol levels and releases endorphins, which make us naturally happy and improves muscular strength, balance, cardiovascular endurance, and cognitive ability. Research also shows that the combination of physical and social activity required in dancing can decrease the risk of dementia. Tango has even been prescribed as a treatment for Parkinson’s patients as a way to reduce symptoms.

Forgive and Forget

“There is an enormous physical burden to being hurt and disappointed,” explains Dr. Karen Swartz from Johns Hopkins. It can also lead to chronic anger, which increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and depression. Forgiving and letting go of negative feelings can reverse those health issues. Feeling less angry also helps you sleep more soundly, which is key to your physical and mental health.

Take a Vacation

Doctors say it’s time to pack your bags! The European Society of Cardiology conducted a 40-year study that followed more than 1,200 middle-aged men to determine the effects of vacation time on longevity. The results were surprising. Those who vacationed for more than three weeks annually had a 37% lower chance of dying in the follow-up portion of the study than those who vacationed for less than three weeks. This was mainly due to lower stress levels. The participants who vacationed less also tended to work more and sleep less, which exacerbated health problems. Source: www.betterreport.com

20th Annual Farmers Market at EastChase

Saturdays are for veggin’ at the Farmers Market at the Shoppes at EastChase! Since opening in 2004, the Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market has grown every year and is now one of the top five largest markets in Alabama. Several popular farms are scheduled to be at the market with locally grown products, including Penton Farms, Dixon Family Farms, H+S Enterprise, Leo’s Produce, Leatherwood Nursery, and many more. The market will feature 20+ certified, local vendors with everything from fresh eggs, homemade jellies and jams to locally grown honey and the best boiled peanuts around! G “The EastChase Farmers Market has become a River Region staple for so many families and surrounding communities.” said Sidney Carol Barnhardt, Marketing Associate at The Shoppes at EastChase. “As we celebrate the 20th market season, we are reminded how unique and special this Montgomery market is. From connecting Alabama farmers from all over the state to creating space for families to make memories, it is truly one of my favorite seasons here at The Shoppes!” The 20th annual Farmers Market will be held every Saturday, rain or shine, through August 31st from 7 AM-12 PM.

Gogue Center Announces 2024–25 Season Schedule

Herbie Hancock, Rosanne Cash, “MAMMA

MIA!,” “Hadestown” headed for the Plains

The Gogue Center’s 2024–25 season schedule features 27 performances, including multiplenight runs of Broadway hits “Dear Evan Hansen,” “MAMMA MIA!” and “Hadestown,” jazz icon and musical innovator Herbie Hancock, country music royalty Rosanne Cash and Kathy Mattea, and the world premiere of a new work created by dance luminaries Ephrat Asherie and Michelle Dorrance. The new season also features encore performances by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and several chart-topping a cappella groups, including crowd favorites Straight No Chaser and VOCES8.

The 2024–25 season, which is sponsored by Walt and Ginger Woltosz, is divided into six genre-specific series: Broadway, Celebrity, Chamber Music, Concert, Dance & Movement and Family.

New for this year, the Gogue Center’s Chamber Music Series performances will be excluded from its full season subscription packages. A separate subscription offering tickets to the season’s three chamber music performances will be available.

The season’s Family Series will also be offered separately from the full performance season and will include four shows tailored to younger audiences. All Family Series performances are general admission and will be offered at the reduced price of $10 per ticket.

A complete 2024–25 season schedule, including all artists and performances, dates, times and series, can be viewed here: https://aub.ie/gpac-2024-25

All performances for the upcoming season will be presented in the Woltosz Theatre.

Season subscriptions are now available to all current Gogue Center season subscribers and sponsors and will be available to the general public beginning Tuesday, June 25. Additional subscription packages as well as single tickets, will be made available on future dates.

For more information on 2024–25 performances and season subscriptions, patrons are encouraged to contact the Gogue Center box office by telephone at 334.844.tixs (8497) or via email at gpactickets@auburn.edu. Subscriptions can be purchased online at goguecentertickets.auburn.edu or in person at the Gogue Center box office, located at 910 South College Street in Auburn, Alabama, Tuesday through Friday, 1–4 p.m.

“Pretty Woman: The Musical”, February 4-6, 7 p.m. Broadway Series

Straight No Chaser: Top Shelf Tour Wednesday, October 30, 7p.m. Celebrity Series

A Winter Gathering with Kathy Mattea: “Good News and Other Favorites” Thursday, December 12, 7 p.m. Celebrity Series

Herbie Hancock, Tuesday, September 17, 7 p.m. Celebrity Series

“MAMMA MIA!” March 25 & 26, 7 p.m. Broadway Series

By Myrna Marofsky

Sisters in Their 70s

As we developed our womanhood, we also developed our sisterhood. Our mutual respect and compassion for each other evolved, as did our family ties.

I just returned from a short trip to celebrate birthdays with my sister and my two daughters. While we are two sets of sisters, one in their mid-70s and the other in their late 40s, generationally, we are different in our relationships with each other and our views on life.

Our trip was a rare opportunity to appreciate those differences. One morning, as all four of us cuddled in a king-size bed together, our conversation revealed the unique places we were in our lives.

My daughters are happily married and have successful careers. One has a household of three wonderful sons, and the other without children by choice. They have goals and plans for building their future, and aside from a few problems, they take each day as it comes. As sisters, they have a solid and caring relationship while living very separate lives. The one thing they are sure of is that they can count on each other, even if time together is limited.

With Each Loss, We Grow Closer

My sister and I are alone after losing our long-time partners. What was a challenging relationship between us has become a cherished one. At our

age, we count each day as a gift — a gift enriched by our daily 4 pm checkin calls to share a story, confide an overwhelming feeling, or wrestle with one of our many daily hassles. Lately, we've granted each other permission to just "spew." That means listen and don't try to fix it.

your siblings and parents."

Resentment is the keyword in this description. I didn't like her. She idolized me.

But as we developed our womanhood, we also developed our sisterhood. Our mutual respect and compassion for each other evolved, as did our family ties.

With each loss — parents, husbands, friends — we have grown even closer.

As sisters in our 70s, we have become comfortable with our differences, even appreciating them. That's because we have the threads of a shared history and fond memories connecting us. As we age, we recognize and value each other's wisdom. We face our grief over lost husbands with empathy. We accommodate our physical limitations with patience and understanding. We recommend beauty products to cover age lines and always comment on whether our latest hairstyle makes us look younger. We understand each other like no one else can.

If anyone had told me that the sister I once pushed off a bench when she was 7, knocking her out cold, would become the person I turn to daily, I wouldn't have believed it. I was the big sister, schlepping her with me everywhere. She was even the mascot of my Girl Scout troupe, led by my mother. I was a poster child for what the New York Times recently labeled the "eldest daughter syndrome" which carries "intense feelings of familial responsibility, people-pleasing tendencies, and resentment toward Free Digital Subscriptions at www.RiverRegionBoom.com

The Benefits of Sisterhood

I'm noticing that as my daughters mature, their bond becomes stronger. Instinctively, they use the shorthand

Myrna Marofsky with her sister and two daughters. | Credit: Courtesy of Myrna Marofsky

communication that sisters have. They are moving from judgment to understanding and are beginning to place each other a bit higher in their priorities. And they still giggle together. Hopefully, this will result in an enduring relationship of unconditional love.

The generational differences between sisters really shows up when there is conflict. My sister and I learned to stuff our feelings and dance around sensitive issues. If we reacted quickly with a critique, it never went well. Today, we are still cautious, but do speak our truth. However, I'm not known to be a diplomat.

On the other hand, when my daughters, as they say, "didn't like how something landed," therapy and business training have taught them to "provide feedback" or "clarify expectations." Their language is more formal, less confrontational, and rarely spontaneous.

The benefits of sisterhood in the 70s doesn't require a biological relationship. An emotionally connected friend can be a trusted source of companionship and support akin to a sister. There may not be a shared history, but experiences can be collected. Having someone in your life who takes the time to understand you in deep and meaningful ways and then allows you to reciprocate is someone to hold dear.

I like my sister now. It's a good thing because she is moving across the country to be near family and eighteen minutes from me. Knowing we will be readily available to each other, we needed to have an honest dialogue as a precaution.

Each of us has worked hard to have our own identity, and as anyone our age knows, we have become creatures of habit with likes and even stronger dislikes. Neither of us is willing to give

up who and what we have become. But when you are sisters in your seventies, time together is precious.

I look forward to hanging out, walking around the lakes, and laughing spontaneously. I can't wait for the two sets of sisters to crawl into a bed together and talk.

And I will always feel bad for pushing her off that bench.

Myrna Marofsky is an entrepreneur, consultant, mother, and grandmother. Having previously written two business books, it was her husband's dementia diagnosis that led her down a new path that resulted in her writing a memoir called To The Last Dance, A Partner's Story of Living and Loving Through Dementia. She frequently speaks to audiences encouraging them to redefine "caregiving" to Care-Living. Myrna is a Chapter Chair for the Women Presidents Organization, where she facilitates peer groups of women business owners.

source: www.nextavenue.org

Thanks for Reading BOOM!

Get ready for the tastiest event of the year as the 12th Annual Pike Road Crawfish Boil makes its highly anticipated return on Saturday, May 18, 2024!

Hosted at Century Church from 10 AM to 6 PM, Century Church is located at 1001 Marler Road Pike Road, AL 36064. This favorite community event promises a day filled with great food, live music, and lots of fun, all in support of a great cause.

The Pike Road Crawfish Boil brings the community together for what we all believe in – PIKE ROAD SCHOOLS! Proceeds from the event directly benefit the Pike Road Patriot Fund, which benefits arts and athletics for Pike Road Schools. We are excited to share that over the past decade, the Pike Road Patriot Fund has donated $190,343 to arts and athletics for

By Tyler Wilson

‘Retirement Travelers’

Grandparents of 8 Set Out on an Adventure Around the World—Have Visited 96 Countries

Three years ago, a retired couple sold their house in Florida and packed their bags to embark on an adventure to see the world—and have since visited 96 countries.

“We gave away all our things and set out on a life of full-time travel, becoming YouTubers and travel bloggers, which was never on our radar,” John and Bev Martin told The Epoch Times.

Sixty-year-old Mr. Martin is originally from West Virginia and has worked in aluminum manufacturing and international relations management. Hailing from a small town in Arkansas, Mrs. Martin, 61, was a stay-at-home mom to the couple’s five children. Their desire to travel around the world stemmed from their upbringing.

When Mr. Martin was growing up, his family hosted foreign exchange students and some of his older siblings studied abroad.

On the other hand, Mrs. Martin grew up in a house that had no television but was filled with books, inspiring her adventurous side.

“As we raised our children, we wanted them to experience the world, and we traveled abroad with them some, but looking back, we wished we had traveled more,” the Martins said.

How Did It Begin?

“Surprisingly, when we began our

journey, it began very differently than we imagined,” the couple said.

In March 2020, the Martins planned to travel to Milan, Italy, but their plans were halted due to lockdowns. Undeterred, they bought an Airstream travel trailer to visit all the national parks in the United States— and were happily able to strike that item off their bucket list.

“We traveled over 40,000 miles in our truck, completing our list of visiting every state,” they said. “America’s crowning glory is the national park system, and [we were able to see] mountains, prairie land, deserts, caves, seashores, rivers, and streams in a short period of time.”

Though they had made preparations originally to travel the world over and had to pivot to other plans, some of their early process went as follows:

Living abroad brought them new perspectives.

They have learned that great adventures don’t always mean traveling to expensive destinations.

“Just because a country is low cost, like Colombia or Bulgaria, doesn’t mean it’s no fun,“ the Martins said. ”These are two fascinating countries, and we will certainly return to them.”

Ensuring Safety

Another big part of planning was budgeting. The Martins chose to move all their finances online with their financial planners setting up a system to keep them updated on their retirement savings.

One of the most important parts of the Martins’ extensive preparations is ensuring safety.

“If we are in a country that has a reputation for being unsafe, we don’t walk around at night,” they said. “We also don’t live in constant fear; we keep our heads up, walk with a purpose, and don’t look lost.”

As a safe mode of payment, the senior couple opts to use Apple Pay.

“We did our estate planning, and we downsized, simplified, and digitized every part of our lives,” the Martins said. “We didn’t leave any stone unturned, and we set up systems like online banking and a mail forwarding box to help us manage everything.” Additionally, they have learned some tricks such as paying with a credit card for all their expenses and optimizing their points to get free hotel stays.

Last year, while traveling through Europe, their credit card number was stolen. After a phone call, to the credit card company, they were able to update their Apple Wallet.

“We traveled all of Europe paying for transit, groceries, everything for months without a physical card,” the Martins said of the experience.

The Best of Memories

After traveling extensively around the world, the Martins have a list of unforgettable memories, but one of their favorites is a situation they faced while traveling from Salzburg to Prague by train. Narrating the incident, they said they were asked to transfer to a bus due to rail repairs.

“A Swedish couple was seated near us and told us to follow them,” the Martins said. “When we got to the next station on the bus, we hopped off, and immediately, the bus took off leaving us in disbelief. No one else got off.”

They were left in a village with no Wi-Fi, no English speakers, and no cellphone service. After a few hours of waiting, they were able to board another train on its way to Prague.

“We look back on this with the best of memories!” they said.

One of their other fond memories was during their time in Cambodia. As the country was celebrating the new year, their driver told them to buy a soaker gun.

They took the advice and, to their surprise, had the most memorable water gun fight of their lives.

“Everyone was joyful, and we were soaked by the time the evening was over,” the retirees said. “We felt like little kids again!”

Adults and children alike were being driven around town in trucks, riding in the truck beds shooting water at each other, spreading joy and laughter along the way.

“It was so much fun!” they said. “Everyone had a smile on their face, and we were all

friends that night.”

The globetrotters have experienced a diverse array of cultures, and they say there is one lesson they’ve learned that is the most valuable: “We are more connected as nations than people realize because we all have families from somewhere else. We all have people we love all over the world, and we all want good lives for the other.”

Another major lesson they’ve learned is that the “desire to be free people is ever present, even in countries without,” adding, “We’ve learned so much about the fight for freedom as we travel. Tour guides or cab drivers often share stories about their struggles to make a better life for their families, and freedom and education is at the forefront of their minds.”

Such conversations have been a poignant reminder to be grateful for what they have.

When asked if there is any country they dislike, the Martins always say “none” as they believe some countries present unique challenges but are filled with goodhearted people.

“No matter where we go, people love their families and their hometown,” they said.

However, their favorite countries to date are Slovenia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Romania, Greece, and the Netherlands.

Mrs. Martin’s favorite location is Raja Ampat in Indonesia as she believes the islands there are the best for diving and snorkeling in the world. Meanwhile, Mr. Martin loves Lake Atitlán in Guatemala for its natural beauty and warm-hearted people.

Surprisingly, the Martins say they haven’t encountered any major challenges as they transverse the globe, and have been amazed to discover that most countries have English speakers.

However, when navigating in places that don’t have any English speakers, they use Google Translate.

Staying in Touch With Family

As they’re always on the move, staying in

touch with their nearest and dearest is a challenge they’ve embraced.

“We try hard to stay in touch with our family and friends,” the Martins said. “Many of our friends text us, and we FaceTime with our family. Everyone is pretty tech savvy these days, including our mothers who are in their upper 80s.”

They regularly stay in touch with their children and visit their family twice a year. In the future, they plan to get back home more frequently to spend time with their eight growing grandchildren. Everyone has been supportive of their retirement adventures, with some of their kids even traveling with them.

“One of our sons thought it was a little crazy, but he quickly realized that it was a great plan, and he jumped on board,” the Martins said. “I think he just wanted to know we were safe, and we were taking good care of ourselves.”

As they continue to create a truckload of memories, they share their daily chronicles with their more than 100,000 subscribers. On reaching their 100,000 follower milestone, their children were more overjoyed than they were.

“They probably were a little shocked that their very ordinary parents could do it, but they were thrilled,” they said.

Future Plans

In the coming months, the Martins plan to visit the western coast of Africa, South America, and Japan. They also plan on growing their website as a valuable resource for encouraging and sharing their know-how and helping other retirees step out of their comfort zones to see the world.

Although they had initially set out with a 10-year goal, they now see no end in sight.

“We’ve found that we love moving about and experiencing different cultures constantly,” they said. “Our minds are constantly challenged, and we rarely have a routine of where we walk or what we do.”

Source www.retirementtravelers.com www.theepochtimes.com

By Edd and Cynthia Staton

What Does Aging Gracefully Even Mean?

Start by feeling comfortable — even proud — of who, what and how old you are

The older we get, the more the term "aging gracefully" seems to pop up. In interviews with actresses in their 60s and 70s. In articles offering advice on how to keep our skin dewy and youthful, our bodies trim and healthy.

But what does aging gracefully even mean? Is it about looking years younger than your actual age, whether through lucky genes, dedication to health and wellness, cosmetic procedures or all of the above?

Or are graceful agers those who confidently embrace their older status while letting their hair go gray and accepting lower stamina and those extra pounds?

Let's begin by acknowledging what a privilege it is to even be debating this topic. It is hard to believe that Americans born after 1945 were the first in history whose average life expectancy reached Social Security full retirement age.

Age Gracefully by Living Longer Today's massive population of older adults, growing up in the golden age of the American Dream, has "reshaped every stage of life they've inhabited," according to Ken Dychtwald, founder of Age Wave. So it is only natural that they now seek to redefine what it means to be old.

The clock nonetheless continues to tick. Are there secrets to successfully eluding the emotional landmines that

accompany our inevitable arrival at — well — the end? To gracefully (defined in elegant fashion by the Cambridge Dictionary as "moving in a smooth, relaxed, attractive way") sashay toward whatever the future holds?

While there is no "right" way to pursue successful aging, experts have observed common characteristics of the most successful agers within three key life components.

Mental

Acceptance: In many cultures, older adults are held in high esteem for the wisdom they have amassed over the years. The Dalai Lama, for example, was born in 1935 and remains a revered leader of the Eastern world.

That used to be the case in the United States as well. But wouldn't you know it? The same group now reaching old age started our country's infatuation with youth when they first hit the scene back

in the '60s.

Far from being venerated as we grow older, these days birthday balloons with negative messaging are likely to show up when we turn 40.

Against this backdrop it can be easy to grow despondent when gazing upon the "mature" face staring back in the mirror. Not if you are a graceful ager. These individuals eschew obsessive fretting about changes that accompany advancing years and simply acknowledge their inevitability.

Positive thinking: Rigid thinkers tend to view these naturally occurring differences in health and appearance as negative and become overwhelmed. This attitude creates stress and may even lead to depression.

A study by Yale professor Becca Levy found that those with a positive attitude about aging could add 7½ years to their lives. Not only that, her decades-long research revealed that older people with positive perspectives on aging performed better both physically and cognitively.

Embracing the present (and future): When it feels as if better days are behind you, reminiscing about pleasant memories brings comfort. But dwelling in the past can become a habitual distraction to avoid thinking of a present and future that appear less than promising.

While there is no "right" way to pursue successful aging, experts have found common characteristics of the most successful agers within three key life components. | Credit: Getty

Graceful agers embrace the present moment and continue to make plans for their future. Relishing today and continuing to set goals for tomorrow implies an expectation of more time to look forward to.

Social

Friends, old and new: Social networks tend to shrink as we age for a number of reasons, the most obvious being the death of friends and relatives. We may consciously move away from peripheral relationships and concentrate on those of greatest importance to us. Or declining mental or physical health can cause increasing isolation.

A recent study found that individuals who stayed engaged with others experienced a 70% lower rate of cognitive decline than those less active in their relationships. Graceful agers make sure they stay connected with old friends and are open to cultivating new friendships across all ages.

Graceful agers often choose to limit highly processed foods in favor of whole foods (fruits, vegetables, grains). Although portion sizes for older adults tend to get smaller as activity levels decline, recent research suggests eating more protein to combat loss of muscle size and strength.

Out of ideas about what to cook? New apps powered by artificial intelligence

immediate improvement has been documented in people as old as 100. The keys to success are to choose a type of exercise you enjoy, start slowly and progress until it becomes a habit to look forward to instead of a dreaded chore. Of course, getting your physician's endorsement in advance is a given.

Cosmetic enhancements: A multibillion dollar anti-aging industry constantly tells us we can't be happy with wrinkles, sagging skin and bags under our eyes. Today a dazzling cornucopia of lotions and potions, injectable fillers, laser therapy and lifts of all sorts is available. Any stigma attached to getting "a little help from my friends" has disappeared as quickly as a Botoxed frown line.

Meaningful activities: Too many people whose identities have been closely tied to their careers reach retirement age with no clue what to do with themselves. The challenge of aging gracefully is to actively seek new activities and interests. Travel, hobbies, continuing education through local universities, volunteering or finally having the time to re-engage with family and friends are purposeful possibilities. Graceful agers remain eternally curious and keep pursuing meaningful goals because of a strong belief that they, and their lives, are still important.

Physical

Healthy diet: After preparing umpteen meals over a lifetime, staying motivated to maintain a healthy diet can be a challenge. Yet proper nutrition as you get older is known to be more important than ever to lowering the risk of debilitating illnesses like cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and even some cancers.

are available to do the heavy lifting of menu planning for you, even designing custom recipes based on what you have on hand.

Staying active: Tiring more easily is a natural aspect of advancing age. But that's no excuse to not remain as active as you can.

The vitality and buoyant energy of many graceful agers is rooted in their dedication to staying fit. Indeed, experts agree that exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your physical and mental health.

Many studies have shown that maintaining regular physical activity, even light exercise like walking, can help prevent many common diseases. Improving strength and flexibility reduces the risk of crippling falls. The extensive mental health benefits of regular exercise include staving off dementia, reducing stress and improving sleep. It is never too late to start, and

Graceful agers may choose to drink from this fountain of youth, but they are careful to seek a relaxed, natural look and avoid the overly tight "wind tunnel" results of excessive procedures.

Aging "Gratefully"

Since no two people are the same, "aging gracefully" can be defined in an infinite number of ways. Looking as young as possible is of paramount importance for some. Others could not care less about their appearance and are focused more on pursuits that they are passionate about.

Perhaps the most successful agers of all are the ones who don't think much about getting older. Instead of bemoaning their aches and pains and how life is slipping away, they focus on "aging gratefully." For a lifetime of experiences, both the joyous ones and the rough patches that perhaps revealed a powerful lesson. For wisdom picked up along the way and the love they have shared.

And, most of all, for the mighty accomplishment of actually growing old!

Edd and Cynthia Staton write about retirement, expat living and health and wellness. They are authors of three bestselling books and creators of Retirement Reimagined! Visit them at www.eddandcynthia.com

source: www.nextavenue.org

By Pam Windsor

Radio Host Delilah on What She's Learned About Love and Loss

As a popular nighttime host for almost 40 years, Delilah is discovering that people are more lonely now than ever

She's known simply as "Delilah" and for nearly forty years she's shared stories, a listening ear and music during her nighttime syndicated radio show. With an estimated audience of nine million people weekly, she's the most-listened-to woman on the radio in America. Decades after she got her start, Delilah (Rene) remains grateful people of all ages still tune in to listen.

"It's pretty amazing," Delilah tells Next Avenue. "I hear from people who are in their 80s and they're like 'I've loved you and listened to you most of my adult life.' And then I hear from kids who are in high school or young adults who say, 'I used to listen with my mom but now I listen in my apartment, or I listen on the internet.' It's an honor and a blessing."

She refers to herself as the "Queen of Sappy Love Songs" known for asking listeners, "What's on your heart tonight?" They call or write in to share their personal stories or struggles, and Delilah listens, offers words of encouragement, then finds the perfect adult contemporary song to send a message of "love" or cap the moment in just the right way.

Answering a Call

She discovered a passion for radio at 14 when she got her first job at a local station in her hometown of Reedsport, Oregon. After high school, she moved on to radio jobs in other cities, some lasting longer than others, before landing the position that allowed her to do what she

believes she was "called to do." While the numbers show millions are tuning in nightly, Delilah begins every show by thinking about that "one person" she might be able to help.

"It might sound corny and trite," she says, "but before every show my producer and I pray and say, 'Lord, if there's one person who needs to hear something, if there is one person who is lost and hurting, please give me the words to touch that person in whatever way I can."

was disowned by her father (for marrying a Black man), she's been divorced several times, and fired from dozens of jobs. She lost her brother and sister-in-law in a plane crash, her son to suicide, and suffered other personal tragedies.

And yet, through her determination, resilience and strong faith, she's had much to celebrate, as well. She's the mother of 15 children, twelve of whom she adopted, and stepmother to five adult children. On the career side, she's one of the most influential women in radio, and in 2016, was inducted into the Museum of Broadcasting Radio Hall of Fame.

Delilah lives on a 55-acre farm in Port Orchard, Washington which houses her home studio where she does her nightly radio show.

While Delilah has years of radio experience, it's her "life experience" that's given her the depth and empathy that resonates with listeners. She

Her listeners have come to trust her and confide things they might not have thought to share with someone else. It's given her some interesting insight.

Loneliness in People of All Ages

"We have more technology now, and more platforms to communicate than ever before in the history of the world," she says. "We can FaceTime somebody in India in a minute. I've got adult children who live all over the place and I can FaceTime, and almost reach out and

In a new book, Delilah shares her journey to becoming a radio host, and opens up about her experience with grief and loss | Credit: Courtesy of Delilah/Conduit Media

touch them. And yet, people are lonelier than they've ever been and that plays out on my radio show. Kids are lonely, teenagers are lonely, and young adults are lonely."

She says since COVID, it's only gotten worse.

"I saw a study several months ago that said that pre-pandemic, young single adults used to spend an average of six to eight hours a week in the company of friends. Now, it's down to less than two hours a week."

Delilah says another societal problem she sees is the unwillingness to discuss grief. Six years ago, she wrote a book called "One Heart At A Time" that followed her journey to becoming a radio host, but also delved into the heartwrenching pain she suffered when her biological son, Zack, died by suicide, and her adopted son, Sammy, died of sickle cell anemia two years after she brought him home from an orphanage in Ghana, West Africa. (Later, her stepson Ryan also passed away, from a drug overdose) She wrote the book to help others and "start the conversation" about grief.

The Need to Discuss Grief and Loss

"In our society, it's okay to talk about love and sing songs about falling in love and first love. And now, apparently, it's okay to talk about your most intimate moments with your partner in graphic detail," Delilah says. "But it's not okay to talk about grief, to talk about loss, to talk about mental health, to talk about suicide, and to talk about disease when it affects young people."

She says it's important to discuss pain and loss, then continue to offer love and support, because grief is very much a part of life.

"It's not something you can compartmentalize, then go to a 12-step meeting for a week and you're okay. It doesn't work that way."

Delilah remains committed to finding ways to help others. She's the founder of Point Hope, a non-profit organization

that serves as a voice for forgotten children everywhere.

"In America, we try to bring awareness to kids in foster care and encourage people to adopt them out of foster care or at least mentor them," she explains. "Then, in West Africa, we have programs to provide food, water, education, empowerment, job skills and more."

She admits her life is extremely full, but so rewarding. And she owes it all to radio.

"I still love what I'm doing!" she says. "I love being on the air as much today as I did when I started."

Pam Windsor is a freelance feature, travel, and entertainment writer. She currently lives in Nashville, Tennessee.

Source www.nextavenue.org

By Jashayla Burnett

Ginger the Wonderful

Zingiber officiale, commonly known as ginger, is from the family. It’s mistaken to be a root but it’s actually a rhizome. Whether it’s in a supplement, elixir, food, drinks, or candy there are many uses for this amazing plant. This herbaceous beauty is very fragrant and known for its culinary and medicinal qualities. It can be used in immunity shots, a relaxing tea, a stir fry, even cookies. Many have also used this spice to aid in recovering from the common cold, flu, digestive issues, nausea, lower cholesterol and alleviate menstrual pains. It’s high in antioxidants due to a natural component called gingerol which works wonders for the body against oxidative stress.

A little about growing this aromatic beauty. Ginger can be grown from seed or simply by placing a cutting of it in the ground from a 1–2-inch piece of the rhizome itself. The best time to plant is early spring after the last frost. If you choose to grow from cutting be sure to let the cut end fully dry. This plant loves to be in areas where it can get plenty of warmth and some shade. As it grows

you will notice it is very fragrant. It has a rather long growing season so after about 10 months your ginger plants should be ready for harvest.

The first experience I can remember tasting ginger was trying ginger snap cookies as a kid. As I grew older and started my “better in, better out” health journey I was reacquainted with this amazing plant and learned even more about all its wonderful properties. So, you bet when Covid-19 had come along I was ready. I would always prepare or buy a ginger shot with apple and cayenne to help give my immune system an extra boost. On my health journey when I

buckle down and attempt to lose weight, specifically belly fat, I have ginger tea with a kick of cayenne to help curb my appetite. By far this plant is one of my favorites due to all the ways I can use it and its many benefits. If you love ginger like I do you’re going to love this delicious tea recipe.

To make the most delicious ginger tea start by bringing four cups of water to a boil. Next, peel about a thumb of ginger. Grab some dill, cayenne pepper, agave syrup & a lime while you’re at it. Add the ginger with about one or two sprigs of dill to your water and let it boil for five minutes. Remove from heat then spoon out ginger and dill. Squeeze in two tablespoons of lime juice, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper and then spoon in agave to taste. Enjoy this in your favorite mug, nice and hot or wait and have a chilled glass, either way you’re in for a treat!

Jashayla Burnett, an intern in the 2023 Master Gardener Class, lives in Montgomery. For more information on becoming a master gardener, visit www.capcitymag.org or email capcitymag@gmail.com

Unique Summer Field Trip for AUM OLLI

Even though there are no classes at AUM OLLI in August, members have an opportunity to register for a field trip to Alabama OLLI Day, hosted by AU OLLI on August 07, 2024. AUM OLLI members can register as part of their current membership, but new members must pay the annual membership fee of $40.00 for the coming year of 2024 – 2025 to register. For current and new members, the price of the field trip (which covers transportation by bus from the Center for Lifelong Learning) is $10.00. The program and reception are free. The deadline for registration for the field trip is noon on August 02, 2024.

The program for Alabama OLLI Day features keynote speakers Margaret Renkl and her brother, Billy Renkl, talking about the collaboration on

their book The Comfort of Crows: A Backyard Year. The book contains fiftytwo chapters about the natural world of plants and creatures in Margaret’s backyard through a year’s seasons. Her essays are accompanied by fiftytwo original artworks by her brother, Billy. The resulting combination has been variously called “a literary devotional,” “a portrait of joy and grief,” “classics,” “love letters,” and “prayers.” The collection has been recognized with numerous awards and prizes. Siblings Margaret and Billy Renkl are native Alabamans, and both currently live in Tennessee.

The bus will depart from the Center for Lifelong Learning at 3:15 p.m. on Thursday, August 07, and will return to the Center around 9:30 p.m. The program takes place at the Gogue

Performing Arts Center in Auburn, Alabama. The Gogue is an intriguing location to visit, with its use of Alabama heart pine and Alabama white marble and carpets reflecting the rivers of the state of Alabama.

The program featuring the Renkls will begin at 4:30 and will be followed by a reception and book sales and signings.

Go to the AUM OLLI website (www.aum.edu/olli) to join AUM OLLI and to register for this unique field trip. By late August, the 2024 fall catalog will be posted there, so members can plan their schedules for fall.

Travel Experiences with Jeff Barganier

Photography provided by Jeff Barganier

In Search Of A Story

While Cindy is busy designing new lamps for her burgeoning product line with Paragon Picture Gallery in Albertville, Alabama, I’m free to explore the “Heart of Sand Mountain.”

My first objective is the (alleged) $85 million Sand Mountain Park, a 130-acre park in Albertville with state-of-the-art facilities for various sports, recreation, events, and entertainment. The park features a 100,000 square foot indoor facility with competition pool and fitness center, an outdoor waterpark, tennis center, RV park, amphitheater, dog parks, and more. After dropping Cindy off at Paragon’s offices, I rush to check out the pool for some much-needed water therapy—I’m nursing a bum knee.

than three beautiful

conscience kicks in. I return the girls to the rack in exchange for more conservative, aquacolored trunks with palm trees. Ten bucks.

Back at the park, it’s early afternoon. I have this ginormous 8-lane pool all to myself. I’m swimming laps in warm water under the watchful eyes of no less

the amphitheater.

At four-thirty, I grab Cindy at Paragon. We drive to the hotel where she naps while I make reservations at Rock House Eatery in nearby Guntersville. We arrive at five-thirty. Our excellent waitress, Emily, has our outside table ready. The setting is lush with plants, trees, flowers and ivy all radiant in the late-afternoon light. While the restaurant isn’t on the lake, springtime anywhere near Lake Guntersville is simply stunning. As always, the food is delicious and we savor it without haste. This is one of our favorite places to dine in North Alabama.

I park in front of the complex and limp in. The young lady at the front desk informs me that a day pass is fifteen bucks. Since they don’t have a sufficient supply of bathing suits for sale, I depart for Hibbett Sports a couple of miles away only to discover they don’t sell them either! But my luck improves. Next door, at Ross Dress for Less, I find an exciting light-blue suit in my size featuring hula girls. I’m about to purchase the hula’s when my

lifeguardettes. My knee is feeling better already. An hour later, after a hot shower, I dress, tour the facility and take photos. Next trip, I’ll schedule more time here, starting in the 2-story fitness center.

Then I’ll walk a mile or two on the indoor track before channeling Mark Spitz. I may even make it a special personal getaway and take in an evening performance at

The sun will be setting over the lake soon. We drive a short distance to City Harbor and stroll hand-in-hand along the boardwalk, chatting with folks we meet and peeking in shops that were open a couple of hours ago. City Harbor features live entertainment, restaurants, shopping and shortterm luxury condo accommodations. The bars and restaurants are slammed, including Big Mike’s Steak House (another favorite); and La Esquina Cocina.

We watch the sun retreat behind a distant hill beyond the lake—the end to a perfect (and productive) day in the Heart of Sand Mountain.

Cindy on Harbor Walk

Lake Guntersville Sunset

Following morning: We have breakfast at the Fairfield by Marriott on George Wallace Drive before driving Cindy back to Paragon to finish her work there. I return to the hotel and watch Supreme Court hearings on presidential immunity. I dash back to Paragon just as Malanta Knowles and Cindy are wrapping up design work. Malanta and her brothers, Vince and Lendell, are second generation owners of the family business. “Our company was started in 1975. Mom actually started the company. Dad was in the mobile home manufacturing business, and they decided they needed artwork to go in the mobile homes. Mom did a lot of research, and decided she could figure out how to manufacture the art. So, fast forward close to fifty years, we’re now in the third generation of our company. It’s very important for us to have local manufacturing for our city, our state, our community. A lot of people who have started working here actually went to school with us or to church with us or whatever the case may be. We’re happy to say that we’re still able to do ninety-

five percent of our manufacturing here in Alabama. We do a lot of hand painting and a lot of things that are exclusive to Paragon now in our factory. Whereas, before, we might have had to import things like that. We love buying domestic anything we can. We show in four showrooms across

the country and sell internationally. It’s really a fun thing to be able to see your products go across the waters to multiple different types of customers in our world. And we love that it’s all made right here in Alabama,” Malanta says.

They also work with designers like Cindy.

“So, when the designers come in, they’ll actually come with an idea, a concept, a look they’re wanting to try and portray with their feel and eye. And we take it with either a digital image or hand paint it from scratch. Then we’re going to take that and put it into whatever product they bring to us, cost it, photograph it, do a prototype, all that, before we present it to the market,” Malanta explains.

“I think the opportunity to work with the Paragon family on product design is a dream come true,” Cindy says.

And I, Jeff, think swimming, exploring Sand Mountain and dining at fabulous restaurants in search of a story is one crazy good gig.

www.rockhouseeatery.com www.cityharboratlakeguntersville.com www.bigmikessteakhouse.com www.restaurantji.com/al/guntersville/ la-esquina-cocina

www.paragonpg.com

Jeff Barganier is a novelist and travel writer. He travels far and wide upon the slightest excuse for something interesting to write about. He also manages Cindy Barganier Interiors LLC (www.cindybarganier.com) at The Waters in Pike Road, Alabama. His novels include Lawson’s Bluff (2021); The Slash Brokers (1998). Contact Jeff at Jeffbarganier@knology.net You may print out Jeff’s features at www.jeffbarganier.com and take them with you when you travel!

Aquatics Center

Rock House Restaurant Indoor Track City Harbor

Cindy and Malanta Working on New Lamp Designs

Palette Knife Lamp by Cindy

This & tHAT i

Free

A free publication featuring smart ways to make a home comfortable, safe and a great fit for older adults — and people of all ages www.AARP.org/HomeFit. Most houses and apartments are designed for young, able-bodied adults and don’t meet the needs of older residents or people with disabilities. In fact, in many parts of the United States, most housing units were built more than a generation ago to serve a population of family households, generally consisting of two parents and at least two children. But America circa 2020 is a nation in which the dominant household type, accounting for nearly 30 percent of all households, consists of single adults living alone. By 2030, one in five people in the U.S. will be age 65 or over. And it’s projected that by 2034, older adults will outnumber children under 18 for the first time ever. America’s housing stock doesn’t fit a rapidly changing and rapidly aging population. That’s where the AARP HomeFit Guide comes in. • The 36-page, fully-illustrated guide is about homes not houses. Most of the more than 100 tips and suggestions in this room-by-room guide are doable regardless of housing type (single-family house, apartment, mobile home, etc.) or ownership status (owner, renter). • The guide was created to help people live safely and comfortably by enabling where they live to be a “lifelong home,” suitable for themselves and others in their household, no matter a person’s age or life stage. • The guide can help individuals and families make their current or future residence — or that of a loved one — “aging-friendly.” • The guide can help elected officials, policymakers and local leaders learn about and advocate for the housing options that communities need, so residents of all ages can live safely and comfortably — and thrive. There's An App for That! The free HomeFit AR app (available for iPhone and iPad) can be used to identify the improvements that help make a home comfortable, safe and a great fit. The app uses image recognition to identify design elements and appliances such as refrigerators, sinks and stairs. It then employs augmented reality to provide information with specific To-Do's and suggestions, including a checklist of “Do-It-Yourself” tasks and those that are best completed by a hired professional.

A Taste of Alabama at The Garden & Gun Club Atlanta

G&G brings the best of Alabama to Atlanta with a menu by Chris Hastings and cocktails by Justin Owens. Starting Monday, June 17, the Garden & Gun Club launches a week-long menu takeover in partnership with the Alabama Tourism Department, offering a signature menu item created by James Beard Award winner Chris Hastings of Birmingham’s Hot and Hot Fish Club and a full menu of inventive cocktails by Justin Owens, general manager of 23 Court Cigar & Whiskey Bar in Montgomery. To conclude the week, join us for a classic Sunday Supper with Chef Hastings and Owens, where they will prepare a multicourse meal with beverage pairings reflecting seasonal ingredients from the Yellowhammer State. www. gardenandgunclub.com

Publication - AARP HomeFit Guide

Capital City Master Gardeners Association Lunch & Learn @ Montgomery Cultural Arts Center

Capital City Master Gardener Association presents Lunch & Learn, the 1st Wednesday of Every Month from 12-1 pm. They will meet at Montgomery Cultural Arts Center (Armory Learning Arts Building), 1018 Madison Ave., Montgomery 36104. Mark your calendars, June 5, 2024 “Host Plants for Butterflies” Tia Gonzalez, Horticulturist - AU, will present “Host Plants for Butterflies”. We know that Monarchs love milkweed, but what other plants will attract butterflies to our gardens? Have you tried Lantana or Passionflowers? Have you ever heard of Swamp Sunflower, Red Powderpuff, and Bahama Cassia? Tia Gonzalez has managed Auburn’s herb gardens for years and has presented numerous workshops on attracting pollinators. She is a wonderful resource! July 3, 2024 “Garden Tools – Use and Maintenance” Mike Forster, Master Gardener, will present “Garden Tools – Use and Maintenance”. Mike will bring a variety of garden tools and share uses and care. He will explain how to identify the many shovels and pruners already in your garage. Should you use a lopper or a hedge trimmer in the yard? Mike will know the answers. Don’t miss this very practical session!! 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.

Montgomery Botanical Gardens Volunteer Nominee

Congratulations to Karin Carmichael on her nomination as Volunteer of the Year. Karin is a valuable volunteer for The Montgomery Botanical Gardens who has been faithful volunteering and leading other volunteers to help us make the The Montgomery Botanical Gardens the beautiful sanctuary that we enjoy today. for more info visit www.montgomerybotanicalgardens.com

David Brewer Singers Present an evening of Gospel Music at Jan's Beach House

The David Brewer Singers will present an evening of Gospel Music at Jan's Beach House located at 850 Eastern Blvd in Montgomery. There will be great food and drinks and great Gospel Music from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Call your friends and plan for an evening of fun and fellowship! Tuesday, June 25

Karin Carmichael

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Annual SummerFest Celebration Returns on June 27!

Our biggest event of the year is just around the corner! The Town of Pike Road is excited to invite the community for a night of community at SummerFest, a family-friendly fireworks show on June 27 at the Pike Road Agriculture, Recreation & Performing Arts Park (6281 Trotman Rd). Family-friendly areas with food trucks, kids' activities (think: inflatables, yard games, arts and crafts, and MORE!), and green space for your lawn chairs and picnic blankets will be open from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.* at the PRARPAP . The ball fields will also be open for picnics, play, and viewing the fireworks. Then, fireworks will light up the sky just after dark! Parking will begin at 6 p.m. at Rolling Hills Park (6001 Rolling Hills Blvd). Please enter by Rolling Hills Blvd. Handicap parking will be available at the East Entrance of the PRARPAP, near the ball fields. Volunteers will assist you as you park and enter through the West Entrance at the PRARPAP! This event is FREE to attend! We encourage all of our friends and neighbors to enjoy a night of family-friendly fun as we celebrate our nation, our freedom, and our community spirit on June 27. Don't forget to share your pictures with us using #MyPikeRoad and #PikeRoadSummerFest! *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.

Celebrate America's 247th Birthday!

Meet George and Martha Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, Phillis Wheatley, Samuel Adams, Dolley Madison, Thomas Paine, Dr. Benjamin Franklin, Alexander and Eliza Hamilton, and more! Experience the Battle at Concord Bridge, and join the Independence Day Ball. There will be music throughout the day, and all your favorite food vendors will be on-site. The Children's Area is open from 11:30am to 6:00pm with games galore! American Artisans will return this year, offering woodcrafts, honey, brooms, baskets, pottery, jewelry, soaps, and more. And back by popular demand will be the Tickled Pink Petting Zoo, with farm animals to pet and feed. Uncle Sam will be handing out American flags as well. Gates open at 11am. Activities begin at 11:30 am and continue through twilight's last gleaming, when the incredible FIREWORKS close out the day! Admission is just $5 per person, and children ages 4 and under, veterans and active military are FREE. *No entry after 8pm. For a complete Schedule of Events, visit us online at www.americanvillage.org/Independence-Day

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

GrandCamp Field Guide From Christian Grandparenting Network

If you have the desire and the ability to do your own version of a GrandCamp, then this resource tool is for you. Whether you call it GrandCamp or Grammy and Grampy Camp, Rock Girl’s Camp, Nana Camp, or Cuzins’ Camp, this adventure experience can be a unique opportunity to personally impact your relationship with your grandchildren and their faith journey. Our DIY Field Guide is an effective tool to help you create a successful GrandCamp event of your own. Each chapter is packed with ideas and resources to make your work easier. You won’t have to start from scratch, or scratch your head trying to figure out how to put it all together. Based upon our experience producing GrandCamp for almost two decades, and the accumulated knowledge gained from others who have created a similar experience, we we have provided a valuable information guide to help you figure out what will best work for you. Why Do a GrandCamp? As one set of grandparents commented, “Why would you NOT want to do one! It is the very best thing we have ever done as grandparents.” Godly grandparents care about their grandchildren. They want to influence them to walk in the truth and succeed in all that God has called them to be. Grandparents are second only to parents in their power as spiritual influencers in their grandchildren’s lives. So, here are a few reasons why you ought to consider doing a GrandCamp yourself… 1. It is a powerful tool for building and strengthening relationships between grandparents and grandchildren through numerous opportunities for meaningful life conversations. 2. It is a unique adventure that allows the building of memories that last a lifetime and can impact a child’s life for eternity. Who wouldn’t want an opportunity like that with their grandchildren? 3. Grandparents know that it can be a challenge to find quality one-on-one time with grandchildren. You don’t have to be a long-distance grandparent to know how challenging that can be. GrandCamp levels the playing field for grandparents no matter their situation. It enables them to withdraw from other life distractions and focus on their relationship with their grandchildren. It is a setting that allows a grandparent’s time to be focused on their grandchildren and God’s plan for their lives. 4. One more reason for doing a GrandCamp… your adult children will call you blessed for giving them some vacation time away from the kids for a while. Why a GrandCamp with your grandchildren? Because they are worth it! Wouldn’t you agree? Get yours today, https://christiangrandparenting.com/grandcamps/field-guide

Randy Travis at the MPAC, Sunday, September 15th

With lifetime sales in excess of 25 million, Randy Travis is one of the biggest multi-genre record sellers of all time and a recent inductee into the Country Music Hall of Fame class of 2016. His honors include seven Grammy Awards, 11 Academy of Country Music statuettes, 10 American Music Awards, two People’s Choice awards, seven Music City News awards, eight Dove Awards from the Gospel Music Association and five Country Music Association honors. In addition, three of his performances earned CMA Song of the Year honors: “On the Other Hand” (1986), “Forever and Ever Amen” (1987) and “Three Wooden Crosses” (2002). To date, he has 23 No. 1 singles, 31 Top-10 smashes and more than 40 appearances in feature films and television shows to his credit. For tickets visit https://mpaconline.org

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Thrifty Tuesdays are back this summer at the Montgomery Zoo. Starting June 4 – July 30, every Tuesday we will offer ½ price admission after 12pm (noon) until 4pm. We are excited to provide this discount to our River Region community and beyond. This is a great opportunity to visit our amazing park at an affordable rate while still enjoying everything the zoo has to offer. This offer cannot be combined with any other discount, coupon, and/or offer. This includes military discount, senior discount, and AAA discount. It is only available on Tuesdays after 12pm (noon). Admission to the Montgomery Zoo includes: - Admission to the Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum - Entry to Waters of the World from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm - Entry to Parakeet Cove from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm - Entry to Reptile Facility - Daily Keeper Talk at 1:30pm. Additional adventures and attractions: - Train ride: $3 per person - Giraffe Encounter: $3 per person - Sky Lift Ride: $5 per person - Parakeet feed sticks: $2 per stick. For more info visit www.montgomeryzoo.com

Lori Bowdoin

“Helping you LOVE God, SHARE His Word, INSPIRE others, and SHINE your faith”

This month’s cover profile is Lori Bowdoin, who owns Blessings, A Christian Store located at 145 N. Memorial Dr., in Prattville. Blessings was born in 2011 inside the space where Lori’s husband, Larry, operated his successful printing business, Laser Copy. For many years, Lori continued to nurture her unique store until recently, when she and Larry decided to move and expand their businesses into their own retail space a few doors down in the same shopping center. The new Blessings, A Christian Store is a perfect place for the faithful to experience some much-needed retail therapy in a Christian atmosphere. In talking with Lori, you understand why she named her store Blessings because she truly understands its meaning and the joy that comes from sharing her vision with the hundreds of customers who have experienced it with her. Sometimes, as we age, the best way to age well is to pursue the things that matter most. Lori knows this, and we say well done! Grab a friend or two and take the 15-minute drive to Blessings and see for yourself...say hello to Lori for us.

BOOM!: Give us a brief biography, i.e. where you are from, your education, what brought you to the Montgomery area, your children, your family, etc.

Lori: I grew up in the small town of Hartford, in south Alabama. We lived just on the outskirts of town, and much of my family lived nearby. That extended family has been a huge influence in my life. I graduated from Huntingdon College in Montgomery

with a Business Management degree. We have three adult daughters - the oldest lives in the Nashville area with her family, the middle daughter lives locally with her family and our youngest is almost finished with grad school at Auburn. We have 4 grandchildren whom we adore, of course!

BOOM!: Lori, you own and operate Blessings, A Christian Store located at

Blessings, A Christian Store, 145 N. Memorial Dr. in Prattville

Lori and her husband, Larry share a laugh Photography by Samantha Legg of Pair of Leggs Photo & Video

Lori presents a few products from Blessings Ashlee, Heather, Elizabeth and Lori at Blessings’ “Plaid Friday” event

145 N. Memorial Dr. in Prattville. Can you share with our readers the how and why you decided to open your unique store?

Lori: I have always thought I would love to be a bookstore owner one day. When I moved to the Prattville area, I worked in many roles, including human resources for a locally owned healthcare company, and was given many opportunities to learn, grow, and advance. As reimbursement pressures caused most work to be moved to the regional or national level, I was eventually laid off after almost 25 years. While looking for another job, I helped my husband out at his business, Laser Copy. There was some empty space in the front of the store, and I decided to fill a need locally by adding Christian gifts that customers could explore while waiting. Right away, customers started asking for books and Bibles and were so excited. So, I did some research, attended a Christian Retailer show in St. Louis, “found” more space in the store, and added books and Bibles. God just blessed us in so many ways during this uncertain season of our lives, so as it became apparent that I would not need to look elsewhere for work, Blessings was the obvious name for our little “store within a store”.

BOOM!: You recently moved your store into a larger space. Could you please describe the new mix of products and services you offer at Blessings? What advice would you give to future entrepreneurs wanting to launch a business?

Lori: When we started, we kept it small and just reinvested everything as we grew. We ultimately took over every available inch at Laser Copy! It took a lot of creativity and constant

ordering to make it work, but we did it for a long time. Eventually, to keep growing, we needed a larger space. After many of our own prayers, as well as those from customers who really wanted to see us continue to stay locally and grow, everything fell into place, and we moved just a little further down the sidewalk in the same shopping center. With the larger space, we have been able to broaden our selection in all areas, including Bibles, children’s books and gifts, and church supplies. We work hard to find gifts and goods that you don’t see everywhere else and to help our customers find just the perfect thing. Most gifts include scripture or inspirational messages or support non-profit organizations and missions with their purchase.

Our Bible selection includes a couple of our very popular specialty Bibles: journaling/wide-margin Bibles and Filament-enabled Bibles that link with an app that contains a wealth of study notes, maps, charts, videos, and more.

We also offer Bible imprinting and gift certificates, as well as complimentary gift wrap and greeting cards, so customers can stop in, grab a gift and greeting card, and leave with everything ready to gift.

I would advise entrepreneurs to learn as much as they can about the business world in general and specifically about the type of business they want to launch. Work for a while in that industry if you can. A healthy dose of risk tolerance doesn’t hurt!

BOOM!: Operating a successful retail store requires quality staff and employees. What do you look for when adding people to your team? How do

Lori and her extended family enjoying a beach reunion

Lori and her daughters, along with 3 of her grandchildren

Lori with her daughters Sydney, Amber, and Brandy

you make your staff the best they can be? How would you describe your leadership style?

Lori: We are blessed with a wonderful team! We all truly love working with each other. I always look for friendly people who enjoy working hard and like to learn. I believe in writing things down, so procedures and forms are very important to me, so everyone has a reference if needed. We are constantly updating those as things change or we learn more. I’m always open to a better way of doing things. I love sharing stories and backgrounds with our staff on products we carry so everyone is better equipped to serve customers. One of the greatest joys I get from leadership is to see someone find their niche within the business and take ownership of itthey just blossom!

BOOM!: Your husband, Larry, owns and operates Laser Copy next to Blessings. Does he have a role in your business or vice versa? What are some of the benefits and challenges of working closely with your spouse? Would you share your love story with us?

communication and honesty. Until Blessings moved into a larger space, I was still very much involved with Laser Copy on a daily basis. Even though Laser Copy is next door now, we are mostly focused on our own areas.

Our love story started in a funny way. When I worked in my previous job,

Lori: We were unsure how working together would work in the long run when I joined Laser Copy and started Blessings. Laser Copy had been in business a long time and was well established - I was the newcomer. Also, our working styles are completely opposite of each other. It has taken a real commitment to each other, our marriage, and respect for each other’s businesses, along with lots of

units. I needed something printed, so I went back to work with him on that project. He soon asked me on a date, and the rest is history! Larry deserves so much credit and recognition for supporting my dream all along the way and helping turn my vision on paper into the reality that is in the store today! I wouldn’t want to do it without him.

there were storage buildings behind us. We always saw this truck parked back there and wondered if someone lived in one of the storage units. We eventually needed to rent storage space and learned that Laser Copy around the front handled that. I met Larry, and we learned that while he didn’t live there, he worked late, and his store backed into one of the storage

BOOM!: As a woman of faith. Would you share your Christian Journey and the guidance God has provided to your workplace? Your everyday walk?

Lori: God has truly blessed me over the years. While things may not always have been easy, I can always look back and see how God was working, even during the hardest of times. He was working all things together to prepare me for exactly where I am today.

When I was laid off from that job I mentioned earlier, it was a big adjustment for our family, not the least of which was financial. During the time we were trying to make the decision if I would continue to look for another job or stay and grow Blessings, we prayed a lot. One day I had been driving to work and praying about it, asking God if this was where I was supposed to be. I walked in and up to the customer counter where someone was waiting. Before I could say anything, she leaned across the counter, looked me in the eye, and said, “I need to tell you, don’t you ever doubt this is where you are supposed to be. I just feel you need to know

A Look Inside Blessings

Photography by Samantha Legg of Pair of Leggs Photo & Video

that.” Wow! So we moved forward and never looked back.

BOOM!: Do you have time to be involved in the community, church, or civic organizations?

Lori: Our time has been more limited in the last two years than in the past - we have moved two businesses and two households, and I have had two knee surgeries. We love to support the Autauga Interfaith Care Center in all they do for people in need in our community. Interestingly, there is a very strong community of Christian bookstore owners throughout the United States. We share, support, and pray for each other, visit each other’s stores when we can, and try to get together at trade shows as much as possible. Owning a Christian bookstore is difficult, and we have seen many of them close. But we all feel our stores provide a ministry in our communities. We laugh, cry, hug, and pray with our customers and are blessed to help support them with the resources that we provide. We are all very dependent on our community and churches, believing in what we do and shopping locally in order to help keep us here.

BOOM!: What are you most passionate about?

Lori: I truly love every aspect of owning Blessings. Our tagline is “helping you LOVE God, SHARE His Word, INSPIRE others, and SHINE your faith,” and it’s such a privilege to be a small part of that in people’s lives. I also love to learn, and I am interested in a lot of things. So if there is something I want

to know about or improve, I will dig in, do the research, try it, take a class, become part of a membership, listen to podcasts, etc. Blessings provides me with endless opportunities to do just that.

BOOM!: What do you like about living in the Prattville/River Region area? What do we need more of?

Lori: I am so proud of how friendly we are in the South and in this community. I have been in small groups at church where newcomers to this area always comment about how nice everyone is here.

I would love to see more outdoor dining opportunities that are not by a roadside or parking lot. For example, we have that lovely creek that runs through our community…

series we both enjoy watching.

BOOM!: With a busy life, how do you like to spend time with family and friends?

Lori: We moved my mom to Auburn from Hartford a couple of years ago after my father passed away, which makes it much easier to make a day trip. My sister and her kids live there, and our youngest daughter is at school there. It is easy for most of our extended family to get there. You will often find us in Auburn, and as my mom is our favorite cook, we are usually found around a table, eating, talking and catching up, telling stories, and laughing. Our grandchildren are also super involved in sports, etc., so catching a game or event is always fun.

BOOM!: How do you like to relax and wind down from a full day of activity?

Lori: Larry and I often work long hours, so we like to go home and get in the kitchen. After we put a meal together, we will catch an episode or two of a

BOOM!: Many people, as they age, experience a renewed sense of purpose, new goals, etc. How would you describe this sense of renewal in your life? Any advice for the rest of us seeking renewal?

Lori: I love every aspect of owning Blessings. With the move to a larger space, I’m even more energized to try new things, plan events, and look for new ways to serve our customers. With a great team and good systems and processes in place, I also want to prioritize having a better work-life balance now. My only advice for others would be to make space for doing the things you love. You may not be able to go all-in, but there are usually ways to fit things in in small ways until you can do more.

Lori having a family celebration for her youngest daughter's graduation from Auburn!

Lori and her market buddy, daughter Sydney

BOOM!: What are some of your favorite travel experiences? Favorite getaway spot? Are any travel dreams planned?

Lori: When I was a teenager, my family had the opportunity to live in Isfahan, Iran, for two years. My dad worked for Bell Helicopter, and we were there while the Shah was still in power. It was an amazing experience. We lived in the community and found the people of Iran to be very curious and friendly, and the depth of history there was very eye-opening to me, as so much of what we see in the U.S. is not that old, comparatively. While there, I had the opportunity to travel to Israel and Thailand. In more recent years I have been to Italy, and any future dream trips would either involve Israel or Italy!

the time comes, but I am having too much fun right now!

BOOM!: Do you have any hobbies or other activities that grab your attention?

BOOM!: As you’ve aged, how have your priorities changed? How would you describe what it means to “age well”? What are your thoughts on retirement?

Lori: I have learned to loosen up when it comes to organization, planning, and everything being “perfect.” For me, part of aging well means not getting too caught up in how things used to be and looking for ways to continue to embrace change. For instance, technology is never going to be as intuitive for me as it is for my daughters, but I make the effort to stay knowledgeable in every way possible. Regarding retirement, I will know when

Lori: I love to read and often lament that there are so many books and so little time! I listen to audiobooks constantly because I can listen while doing other things. There is nothing like holding a book in your hands though. I have also recently developed a longing to have fresh flowers around me, even if it is a single bloom or greenery. I can usually find something growing in my yard to cut and bring inside. Maybe a very small cutting garden is in my future?

BOOM!: What future challenges are you contemplating for Blessings, A Christian Store? For yourself?

Lori: Now that we have had a few

months to settle into our new space, we plan to offer more events and special opportunities for our customers and expand on the ones we already do that everyone loves. We also plan to continue and expand our staff training on Bibles and references so that our customers will always know they can get the help they need to make the best selection for their personal needs here at Blessings.

BOOM!: Give us three words that describe you.

Lori: Organized - I’m a paper-planner kind of girl; Creative - I love how I also get to be creative in operating the store; Blessed - God is always there, making a way.

We want to thank Lori for sharing some of her life's story with us this month. Lori and her husband, Larry have been blessed with much to be thankful for, including their unique store, Blessings. We hope you’ll share Lori's story with friends and family; they’ll enjoy the reading experience. If you want to reach out to Lori, please call Blessings at 334.365.3800 or visit the store located at 145 N. Memorial Dr, Prattville, AL, you'll enjoy the experience! The website is www.blessingscs.com Thanks to DiAnna Paulk and her creative photography skills. 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 jim@riverregionboom.com.

A silly moment with the Blessings' staff during the new location grand opening Photography by Samantha Legg of Pair of Leggs Photo & Video

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. The workshop will be conducted in a webinar format. The June 2024 workshop for widows will be on Wednesday, June 26th at 12 p.m. Please call 334.270.1672, or email Sarah@ moorewealthmanagement.com for more information and reservations.

Financial Thoughts with Susan Moore

By Susan Clayton Moore, J.D. Principal of Moore Wealth Management, Inc.

Kathleen Rehl is a financial advisor who was widowed at the age of 60. Although she and her husband had been financial advisors for a number of years and she had 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 couldn’t recall where I put my car keys. I wondered if I was going crazy. I wasn’t. It was just a normal part of being a new widow.”

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 educational materials.

In addition, Susan will conduct a webinar

“Helping

for widowers on Thursday, June 27th 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 over $170 million (as of 1.21.2022) in brokerage and advisory assets through Kestra Financial and has been a financial planner for over 40 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 Kestra 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.

Widows and Widowers” Webinars

Widows Wednesday, June 26th, Noon, Widowers, Thursday, June 27th, Noon. Register today 334.270.1672

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. 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.

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.

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

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.

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.