HealthNEWS MARCH 2011
for Boomers and Beyond
Montgomery’s First Accredited Chest Pain Center There are more than 100 hospitals in Alabama, and only four have Accredited Chest Pain Centers. Jackson Hospital is one of them. On January 26, 2011, Jackson received full accreditation from the Society of Chest Pain Centers (SCPC), an international organization dedicated to eliminating heart disease as the number one cause of death worldwide. Accreditation from SCPC provides facilities with a detailed plan to help them identify process gaps in order to improve the patient care processes. With this accreditation, Jackson Hospital met or exceeded the quality of care measures based on improving the process for the care of the acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patient. Hospitals that have received SCPC accreditation have achieved a higher level of expertise in dealing with patients who arrive with symptoms of a heart attack. They emphasize the importance of standardized diagnostic and treatment programs that provide more efficient and effective evaluation as well as more appropriate and rapid treatment of patients with chest pain and other heart attack symptoms. They also serve as a point of entry into the healthcare system to evaluate and treat other medical problems, and they help to promote a healthier lifestyle in an attempt to reduce the risk factors for heart attack.
KNOW THE SIGNS
If there’s any chance you—or anyone around you—is having a heart attack, a wait-and-see approach is never a good choice. Here are two reasons why: The first hour after symptoms start is the most dangerous time of a heart attack. This is when your heart might suddenly stop beating. Your very survival may depend on the availability of medical help. Doctors today have clot-busting drugs and artery-opening procedures that can stop or reverse a heart attack. These treatments can limit damage to the heart. But to be most effective, they must be given shortly after symptoms appear.
To become an Accredited Chest Pain Center, Jackson Hospital engaged in rigorous evaluation by SCPC for its ability to assess, diagnose, and treat patients who may be experiencing a heart attack. To the community served by Jackson Hospital, this means that processes are in place that meet strict criteria aimed at: • Reducing the time from onset of symptoms to diagnosis and treatment • Treating patients more quickly during the critical window of time when the integrity of the heart muscle can be preserved • Monitoring patients when it is not certain that they are having a heart attack to ensure that they are not sent home too quickly or needlessly admitted to the hospital “It was a remarkable collaboration of physicians, nursing and ancillary staff, with the support of administration,” said Frank Cunningham, RN, Jackson Hospital director of emergency services. “After months of planning, yielding many process changes, our staff brought this accreditation to fruition.”
Even so, most people in the midst of a heart attack delay getting emergency help. Some let precious minutes slip by because they falsely blame their symptoms on something else. Still others are afraid of feeling foolish if they go to the hospital and learn they’re not having a heart attack. Don’t make either one of those mistakes. Know these heart attack warning signs, and respond to them immediately by calling 911: • Chest discomfort. This signature heart attack symptom affects the center of the chest and lasts for more than a few minutes—or goes away and comes back. Discomfort
can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or actual pain. • Discomfort elsewhere in the body. The back, neck, jaw, or one or both arms may be involved. • Shortness of breath. This may accompany chest discomfort or come before it. • Sweating, nausea or lightheadedness. Women in particular are prone to these sensations.
Source: American Heart Association, National Institutes of Health
BOOM!, The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Contents
March 2011
“Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.”
Volume I Issue 8
Carl Bard
Thought Humor “You are never too old Relationships to set another goal Taste or to dream a new Health dream.” C.S. Lewis Inspiration Advice
6
Publisher’s Letter
16
SUPPORT Groups
18 Never Give Up 22 Healthy Hearing
Advantages of Binaural Hearing
26 400 Years Later, KJV is Still Influential page 28
Features
14 Piece Together
Man and caregiver “Piece Together” a strong friendship
20 With a Click
Single at 72, they fell for each other like teens
26 Join the Military?
23 BOOM! Advertising Rates
Soon to be Empty Nester’s Dilemma
Departments 8 This and That
Something interesting, even for you!
28 12 Things
Plenty to do for Boomers
30 LOL-BOOMER HUMOR Go ahead, laugh a little
page 20
WIN 4 TICKETS!
COVER PROFILE page 10
page 8
page 17
BOOM! magazine is published monthly by River Region Publications, 8637 Harvest Ridge Dr., Montgomery, AL 36116. The phone number for voice and fax is 334. 396.3073. Copyright 2011 by River Region Publications. No part of this publication can be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Opinions expressed in BOOM! magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Find Hope Make a differenCe reDiscover your faiTh wiTh The frazer family. Dr. Tim Thompson, senior minisTer TradiTional & ConTemporary Worship 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00
m a i n C a m p u s : 6 0 0 0 aT l a n Ta h i g h Way 3 3 4 . 2 7 2 . 8 6 2 2 asbury Campus: 4540 narroW lane road 334-281-8971 The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
March 2011
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publisher’s letter
Never Give Up! The mission of BOOM! is to serve the folks of the River Region age 50 plus with information and ideas to inspire new experiences, better quality of life and new beginnings.
Never Give Up! Most of us would encourage our children and grandchildren to stay with it or the classic, “if at first you don’t succeed, try try again.” Along the same theme, C.S Lewis is quoted as saying “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” But sometimes our society sends us a different message.
Publisher/Editor Jim Watson
jim@riverregionboom.com
Associate Editor Kelly Watson
kelly@riverregionboom.com
Contributing Writers Dr. Bettie Borton
Elizabeth Leland Carol McGraw Gary Palmer Jilly Prather Wina Sturgeon
Cover Photography
Maria Wiggins, Reflections of Grace maria@reflectionsofgracestudios.com www.reflectionsofgracestudios.com
Advertising
Jim Watson, 334.324.3472 jim@riverregionboom.com
One of the articles this month is about a woman who saw a friend after a few years and was very surprised that her friend had stopped caring about her appearance because she lost interest and thought no one her age (63) was considered attractive anymore, so why bother. The author goes on to say the image of what is attractive, pretty or good looking in Jim Watson, Publisher our society is unwrinkled youth. This image is constantly conditioned into our minds in every form of visual media: magazines and newspapers, films, and most especially, television. Character doesn’t count, only a lack of wrinkles and youth.
I suppose that is one reason I Launched BOOM! because I think Boomers are beautiful and relevant and valuable and vibrant and energetic and smart and sexy and worthy of the respect and consideration of others. Never Give Up! In this month’s issue we share a story of true love that was discovered at age 72, when no one thought it was possible. Or a ninety year old man who has a passion for making quilts and giving them to charity, planning to continue his work until he’s 115! The BOOM! Cover Profile, Lisa Schroeder, is dreaming new dreams for her students to help them become effective and happy members of our community. Never Give Up! We also offer in this month’s issue a list of support groups to help you get through some challenging issues as well as some Boomer and Beyond Humor to remind you “laughter is the best medicine.” The Fab Four Beatles Tribute Show is coming to Montgomery on the 19th and we’re giving away 4 tickets for you and your friends to enjoy. Check out the contest on page 17 and enter to win. The drawing is March 12th.
Design & Layout Lake House Graphics
Distribution
Network Delivery
Printing
Publications Press, Montgomery, AL 334.244.0436
Thanks again to the folks sharing their positive comments about BOOM! I appreciate the opportunity to serve my aging “brothers and sisters” and to remind them they will always be beautiful to me and of course, to Never Give Up!
Jim
jim@riverregionboom.com 334.324.3472 cell/text
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Win Tickets for Your Own “Fab Four” page 17
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This & tHAT
LADIES FIRST TO LAUNCH INAUGURAL EVENT IN RIVER REGION Woman-focused seminar to be held at Riverwalk Stadium on March 4, 2011 Ladies First today announced that its inaugural seminar event will be held at Riverwalk Stadium, in Montgomery, Alabama on March 4, 2011. Ladies First is a daylong seminar for women. With the objective of empowering women in today’s stress-filled environment, Ladies First is a fast-paced day of sharing, shopping, and learning. Ladies First is the brainchild of Sherrie Myers, owner of the Montgomery Biscuits and Virginia Whitfield of Whitfield Foods. “Ladies First is unlike any other seminar”, said Sherrie Myers. “While other seminars will import celebrities who have no idea how to relate to local women, Ladies First is not a one-sizefits-all approach. We created this event because we believe women in today’s world need to share issues and understand their needs and concerns with other woman who really understand them”. The March 4th event will be held at Riverwalk Stadium. The ballpark, home to the Montgomery Biscuits, will be transformed into an indoor venue with seating limited to just 300 for this oneof-a-kind event. The day runs from 9am-4pm with lunch, access to all speakers and shopping boutique, goodie bag and 2 free drink tickets for optional social hour, all included for $67. For information on Ladies First visit www.ladiesfirstonline.net, contact Virginia Whitfield at vwhitfield@ladiesfirstonline.net or contact Pam Hastalis at 312-391-9867
Grandparents Get Ready! ZOO WEEKEND: APRIL 2 – 3
Second Saturday Jam Sessions Mar 12-26, Montgomery Second Saturday Jam Sessions 888-2401850. www.oldalabamatown.com. Free. Old Alabama Town--Pick and grin at Old Alabama Town’s Saturday Jam Sessions. Held on the second and fourth Saturday of every month at the historic Rose House, circa 1840s. Musicians, bring your acoustic instruments and join the fun. Admission to the jam sessions is free; ticket to tour Old Alabama Town are available at the Reception Center. 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
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Mark your calendar today to make plans to visit the Montgomery Zoo April 2 – 3, 2011, for the 35th Annual Zoo Weekend. Watch as the Montgomery Zoo is transformed into a festive environment filled with wildlife adventure and fun. Roam through the Zoo’s five continental realms seeing exotic animals from around the globe. Enjoy games and rides while winning prizes and treats. Enjoy a ride on a camel or pony. Enter a petting zoo area and feed the animals. See live entertainment including music, dance teams, shows from Ronald McDonald, and karate and MPD Canine unit demonstrations. Be thrilled by the Montgomery Zoo’s Education Department animal presentations. Snack on some of the finest concessions in town. Venture through the Zoo on a train ride or take in the sun on a relaxing pedal boat ride on the lakefront. And whatever you do, don’t forget to check out the Giraffe Encounter Post where you can stand nose-to-nose with an 18 foot giraffe while giving him a snack. Get your picture taken with the giraffes for a memory that will last a lifetime. Zoo Weekend is a fundraiser, allowing the Zoo to continue to expand and grow for the citizens of the River Region. The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
ANC Open to the Public March 14-18
Looking for a fun way to spend your vacation? Celebrate spring the natural way with some quality outdoor time featuring a hike along the ANC trails. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy dining under the open-air pavilion or in the sunshine on one of the picnic tables outside. Gates will be open from 8 am to 5 pm.
Small Space Gardening
March 17, 6:30pm, Frazer’s Wesley Hall Ken Haney will teach you how to create sustainable small gardens in which you can train others in your community! This event is free and registration is not required. Childcare will not be available. Hope to see you there! Contact Information:Butch McPherson - 334.495.6325, butch@ frazerumc.org
Seventh Annual Crawfish Boil
The Seventh Annual Autism Crawfish Boil to benefit Easter Seals of Central Alabama (ESCA) is scheduled for Saturday, April 2, 2011 at 1048 Jazz and Blues Club in Montgomery, Alabama from 1:00pm until 6:00pm. 1048 Jazz and Blues Club is located at 1104 Fairview Avenue in the Old Cloverdale District. Entertainment will be provided by Corban Road (outside) and Davis Nix (inside) from 12-2:30 and Hellikopta of Love (outside) and Jonathon Bloom (inside) from 3-5:30. A limited number of Early Bug tickets are available at a reduced rate of $25.00. These tickets are first come, first served and only available through March 18th. Early Bug tickets include admission at Noon instead of 1:00pm. After all Early Bug tickets are sold or beginning March 18th, regular admission tickets will be sold for $35.00. New this year, VIP tickets will also be available for $50.00. VIP tickets also include early admission in addition offer reserved seating, cocktail service, and a t-shirt. All tickets include all you can eat crawfish. Ticket locations include Delta Printing & Sign Co. and Easter Seals Office. Tickets can also be purchased by emailing mudbugball@gmail.com or by visiting one of the following supporting websites: www.autismmudbugball. org and www.eastersealsca.org. For more information about the Seventh Annual Autism Crawfish Boil to benefit ESCA, please call DeAnn Weston at 334-590-5543 or Stefania Cumuze at 334-467-2035.
Social Media Conference on March 23
Learn how to put social media to work for you by attending a one-day social media conference on March 23 at Auburn University at Montgomery. From beginner to expert, professionals of all skill sets will learn how to better market their businesses and organizations through social media. Topics will include the basics of setting up social media accounts, measuring your impact, justifying social media to management, fundraising through social media, legal ramifications, how to depersonalize posts on a business account, and much more. For more information or to register, visit www.aum.edu/coned. The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Caffeine boosts sex drive in rats The February issue of Marie Claire magazine reports on the latest research on sex: Wine may be the drink of choice among lovebirds, but a Concordia University rat study suggests they should probably brew coffee instead. Caffeinated rats of both genders demonstrated more interest in sex than their noncaffeinated cohorts _ without the performance limitation normally brought on by alcohol. caffeine, by the way, takes 15 minutes to get into your system, and while it’s out in 40 minutes, its arousal effects (along with its waking effects) can last for hours. The happiest couples are those who are emotionally open and unafraid to reveal themselves to each other. Yet the potential for deception is always present. The “big” lies, such as having an affair, tend to have the worst repercussions (such as divorce). Yet a lifetime of small, “white” lies can also erode a relationship. Examples: Maybe you bought something that you didn’t really need-and lied to your partner about the cost. Or your partner noticed your lingering glance at another person-then you swore up and down that you didn’t find that person attractive. We tell ourselves that these “little” lies are harmless or even beneficial because they protect our partners’ feelings. But little lies can be just as detrimental to a relationship as telling a whopper. They just take more time to tear couples apart-and are not always easy to detect.People who tell lies are really protecting themselves by hiding true feelings. When the truth is discovered (it almost always is), the other person naturally feels betrayed. There are many kinds of lies...
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Lisa Hanlon Schroeder
development. I was the recipient of some awesome mentorship during those years. Following the birth of my son, Geoffrey, in 1985, I chose to work part time as private educational consultant in a variety of schools throughout the St. Louis area. This position offered much diversity and a flexible schedule. After my second child, Kate, was born I settled in as the director of St. Louis County Preparatory School, a small program for gifted children. As is often the case, many of these students had special needs as well.
This month’s BOOM! profile is Lisa Hanlon Schroeder, age 54 and the director of Churchill Academy. Churchill Academy is a school she founded in 1996 to serve the educational needs of bright children with unique learning differences. She is originally from St. Louis, Missouri and has been educating children most of her life. If you know anyone whose had a child at Churchill Academy, you’ll know Lisa is a real asset to the River Region. As an empty nester she longs to visit her son who lives in California, where he works as a Marine Biologist. Closer to home, Lisa’s daughter is a Junior at Alabama, so they see each other fairly often. Thanks to her gardening, dogs and good friends she copes quite well. We hope you’ll find her story as interesting as we did.
BOOM!: Please give us a brief biography, i.e. where are you from, education, what brought you to the Montgomery area, did you raise your family here, schools, married, family, etc?
Lisa: I grew up in a large, Irish Catholic family in St. Louis Missouri. My father was an old-fashioned attorney; the kind that was all about making a difference for his clients. He taught me the importance and power of words. My mother was an amazing woman who taught me to enjoy every day experiences and to treasure life to its fullest. I attended both parochial and public schools during my elementary and high school years. In 1977 I graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor of Science degree in
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Special Education. My first job was in Sullivan; a very small southern Missouri town where I made a whopping annual salary of $8,000.00! The next year I chose to work in a residential program for special needs students run by the St. Louis Archdioceses. I believe I made $6,500.00 that year, but I loved the work and felt it was well worth the cut in pay! After earning my Master’s degree at the University of Missouri, St. Louis I moved to a teaching position at The Miriam School. This school was, and is, a model program for students with various learning disabilities. I was fortunate to serve first as a classroom teacher, and later as an administrator. It was during this time that I discovered my love of program
In 1992 my ex-husband was offered a job here in Montgomery. From 1992-94 I worked with Dr. John Sumners, assessing students who were struggling in traditional schools and helping the schools to meet their needs. I respected Dr. Sumners for the concern and compassion he felt for all of his patients; but, especially for those who were unsuccessful in the educational mainstream. I also relied heavily on him to interpret southern life style and culture! He taught me all about the importance of hunting, grits and Alabama football.
BOOM!: As a professional entrepreneur and educator, you saw an unmet need in the Montgomery education area. Could you describe how Churchill Academy got started? Was the school always something you wanted to do? Lisa: I realized that Montgomery could benefit from a school specifically designed for students who learn differently while working with Dr. Sumners. In 1995 I actually began planning the school long-distance from Chanhassen Minnesota (I had moved from Montgomery to Minnesota due to my ex-husbands employment situation.) I had not had a real “calling” before, but this was truly something I knew I was meant to do. I secured a remote call forwarding telephone number for the “school” and made many trips down south over the next year.
BOOM!: What was the most difficult thing in deciding to open your school? Any lessons you can share with other aspiring entrepreneurs, especially, women?
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Lisa: The initial distance between Minnesota and Alabama of course was a challenge! Given the great need for a different approach to educating these students, gathering the 36 students needed to open was easy. The most difficult task was finding an existing building which met our criteria as a school as well as the fire marshals standards for safety. My best advice is twofold. First, analyze the market and be certain that you will be filling a void in your community. If the need is there, you will be successful. Second, plan well! A good business plan is essential. I can’t count the number of times I went back to my plan to reassure or reassess.
BOOM!: Many of us in the Boomer age look forward to the time when the kids are finally out of the house, on their own, or off to college, maybe even married, so we can experience that “empty nest” syndrome. What kind of experience has that been for you?
Lisa: My children have always been my first priority. Although they will tell you that Churchill was definitely my third child! They spent many hours at Churchill working on homework or playing on the playground in the early days. My daughter is a junior at Alabama. Fortunately we’ve remained very close and we see each other often. My son recently married a wonderful young woman and has moved off to California to embark on his career as a marine biologist. So far I am not a big fan of the empty nest. The house is too quiet and I miss them dearly. My solution? I have adopted yet another dog!
BOOM!: What are you most passionate about?
Lisa: Children! My own and the many I have had the pleasure of knowing over the past 35 years. BOOM!: How do you like to relax and wind down from a hard day’s work at Churchill Academy? Lisa: If I need to process the day, or a particu-
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
lar issue, I am fortunate to have a wonderful staff and some great friends who are glad to oblige. Often, after a hectic day at school, I really just need some quiet time, sitting outside on my patio, enjoying nature and contemplating nothing at all.
BOOM!: With your busy schedule, do you get to travel much? Favorite vacation spot? Any travel dreams for the future? Lisa: My favorite spot is always, always the beach; preferably as remote and undisturbed as possible. Cape San Blas is a family favorite. Future plans include a return weekend trip to Ashville, North Carolina and a relaxing trip to Cancun with my older sister.
BOOM!: What is it about living in the Montgomery/River Region area that you like?
and (New) Hampsted. Most of all, as a business owner, I appreciate the abundant friendliness and helpfulness of others.
BOOM!: Many of us are defined by our work, what does Churchill Academy mean to you? Lisa: In addition to meeting the needs of hundreds students over the past 15 years, it has met my need to make a difference in the lives of children. I am so proud of the work we have done and I am forever grateful to the staff and parents who’ve made it possible.
BOOM!: What would you do if you didn’t operate Churchill Academy? Lisa: Early on I considered a degree in journalism. If I weren’t directing the school I would like to be writing, teaching, or a combination of both. BOOM!: Churchill Academy is described as “A school for bright children with unique learning differences.” Could you explain what that means and the importance of understanding your students this way? Lisa: Early on I found a lot of misperception about the students we serve here at Churchill. It was often assumed that because this is a “special” school, our students were somehow
Lisa: Truthfully, living in Montgomery took a little getting used to initially. I had always lived in St. Louis, and thought I always would. But, it grows on you: the good weather, proximity to the beach, easy accessibility to absolutely everything! Besides, as a mid-westerner accustomed to cold winters which render the landscape lifeless, how could I resist flowers in the winter?! And, it has really come quite a long way since I first arrived here in 1992. The downtown is coming to life, East Chase is great for shopping and I’m a big fan of Old Cloverdale
mentally inferior. In reality, we serve a very broad range of students. Given their innate abilities, some will always need special as-
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sistance and support, while others will excel at a rapid pace and actually graduate early from our high school. There is a greater understanding within the community now, but I will continue to take every opportunity to explain that, for instance, the very definition of Learning Disabilities includes the criterion of average to above average intellectual functioning. Our students can learn, they just need to be taught differently!
BOOM!: Do you have any hobbies or other activities that grab your attention? Lisa: Gardening gives me great pleasure, as does hanging out with my dogs. I always enjoy good music, especially if it is live. I also enjoy reading-real books, not a Kindle, an e-book, or an audio book. I like the smell and feel of real books.
BOOM!: What future challenges do you have? Would you like to expand Churchill Academy or do other things in the education field?
Lisa: We are very pleased to announce that
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Churchill will be launching a new program in the fall of 2011! CHILS (Churchill Independent Living Services) will provide transition services and independent living support to young adults and adults diagnosed with developmental disabilities. Life skills will be taught utilizing the Life Centered Career Education curriculum designed by the Council for Exceptional Children. The program itself will be modeled after the Halyard program in East Sandwich, Massachusetts. Services will include assistance with time management, organization, money management, transportation awareness, meal planning, grocery shopping and vocational support. Classes in meal preparation, health, exercise and communication and a variety of social activities will be available to clients. Our goal is to provide transition services and support tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. In doing so our clients will be able to fully participate in community life and will achieve their personal, social, vocational potential.
BOOM!: As an educator, are you optimistic about the future of how well we educate our children?
Lisa: As a special educator, I remain concerned about the level of service students with disabilities receive in public school settings. The mainstreaming and inclusion movements, which required students to be educated in the least restrictive environments, were good in theory but have often resulted in the watering down of curriculum and in the under servicing of students. I have met many excellent special educators in the public sector with the best of intentions and capabilities, who were frustrated by their inability to provide the most appropriate instruction due to lack of time, money or rigid state requirements. If you have any questions about your Grandchild or child’s educational needs give Lisa a call, 270-4225 or email her at info@churchillacademymontgomery.com. We want to thank Lisa, her students and staff at Churchill Academy for participating with the BOOM! team on this month’s cover. We enjoyed the discovery!
Do you know someone who would make an interesting BOOM! Cover Profile?
Send an email with info to jim@riverregionboom.com
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Jackson Hospital Achieves New Status as Accredited Chest Pain Center Jackson Hospital announces that it has received Chest Pain Center Accreditation from the Society of Chest Pain Centers (SCPC), an international organization dedicated to eliminating heart disease as the number one cause of death worldwide.
On Wednesday, Feb. 16, Jackson Hospital was recognized for becoming the first accredited chest pain center in Montgomery. Hospitals that have received SCPC accreditation have achieved a higher level of expertise in dealing with patients who arrive with symptoms of a heart attack. They emphasize the importance of standardized diagnostic and treatment programs that provide more efficient and effective evaluation as well as more appropriate and rapid treatment of patients with chest pain and other heart attack symptoms. They also serve as a point of entry into the healthcare system to evaluate and treat other medical
“It was a remarkable collaboration of physicians, nursing and ancillary staff, with the support of administration,” said Frank Cunningham, RN, director of emergency services. “After months of planning, yielding many process changes, our staff brought this accreditation to fruition.”
problems, and they help to promote a healthier lifestyle in an attempt to reduce the risk factors for heart attack. To become an Accredited Chest Pain Center, Jackson Hospital engaged in rigorous evaluation by SCPC for its ability to assess, diagnose, and treat patients who may be experiencing a heart attack. To the community served by Jackson Hospital, this means that processes are in place that meet strict criteria aimed at:
• Reducing the time from onset of symptoms to diagnosis and treatment • Treating patients more quickly during the critical window of time when the integrity of the heart muscle can be preserved • Monitoring patients when it is not certain that they are having a heart attack to ensure that they are not sent home too quickly or needlessly admitted to the hospital
Jackson Hospital’s state-of-the-art healthcare encompasses the entire continuum of care for the heart patient and includes such focal points as dispatch, Emergency Medical System, emergency department, catheterization lab, Jackson’s quality assurance plan, and community outreach program. By becoming an Accredited Chest Pain Center, Jackson Hospital has enhanced the quality of care for the cardiac patient and has demonstrated its commitment to higher standards.
One hundred fifty years ago in
Montgomery, Alabama a store owner with a secret, a slave guided by love, a fiery politician, and a divided family took sides and took a stand.
Their story is your story.
W o r l d P r e m i e r e Pl ay S b aS e d o n r e a l Pe o Pl e a n d e v e n tS .
By Elyzabeth Gregory Wilder
By Jeffry L. Chastang
Now – March 19
Now – March 20
Al AbAm A ShAk eSpe Are FeStivAl
montgomery, Alabama 1.800.841.4273 www.ASF.net
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Save the Date! Southern WriterS’ Project FeStival oF neW PlayS May 13-15 www.southernwritersproject.net r i ve r reg i o n b o o m . co m
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Man and caregiver “Piece Together” a strong friendship
By Carol McGraw
Ninety-year-old Herbert Weiss is a speed demon. “I tell him to let up on the gas. He ignores me. And then he goes faster,” says Edie Adamson.
Actually, Weiss doesn’t drive anymore. Adamson is talking about his quilting. The two of them make up their own little quilting bee, sewing two or three afternoons a week. Adamson is a senior home care provider with Visiting Angels. Weiss is her client. Together they have created and donated dozens of quilts and lap blankets for the homeless, impoverished children, foster families.
She designs, cuts and pins. He quilts. They’ve been known to complete small lap quilts in one sitting. Their collaboration began a year ago, when he moved to Colorado Springs, Colo., from Ohio with his nephew Jay Lougeay and Jay’s wife, Lynn. Weiss already had his own sewing machine. “I’m pretty short and always had to cut off my slacks and hem them,” he explains. He had worked on quilts with his sister. Then he and Lynn Lougeay made charity quilts after he moved in with her family in Ohio. When Lynn Lougeay called Visiting Angels senior home care to find someone to keep Weiss company, she asked for a person who liked to sew. Adamson arrived at the Lougeay’s home for an interview with a tote crammed with crafting items and fabric. “I saw that big bag of crafts and knew she would be perfect,” Lougeay says. “I get bored if I’m not doing anything,” explains Adamson. Weiss agrees. It doesn’t bother him that sewing is not a common guy thing like, say, obsessing over baseball, though he does that some, too. Weiss joined the Army in 1940 when he was 20, and traveled the world for 24 years _ places such as Alaska, Germany and Colorado Springs’ Camp
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Carson, as it was known then. He helped keep Army vehicles and tanks in working order. Later he worked in facilities at The Broadmoor and Colorado College for more than 25 years, tending boilers and heating systems. His quilting sidekick Adamson hasn’t been a slouch when it comes to work, either. She’s been a cook, welder and even stripped tobacco. It was Weiss’ second wife, May, who died 17 years ago, that got him interested in crafts, including furniture making and leather work.
Adamson learned to sew on her own when she was a kid in Iowa. “We were poor, my mom had eight kids and was busy, and so I taught myself so I could make my own doll clothes.”
She has worked for Visiting Angels for about four years. “I like working with the elderly in their homes where they are happiest,” she said. “They have interesting stories to tell about their lives. And Herb has lots of stories.” Their chatter tends towards cars, baseball, the TV show “River Monsters,” current events and books, especially westerns.
But their love is quilting. Weiss’s favorite is a quilt he made out of orange and blue material depicting Pontiacs. “We don’t measure exactly all the time,”
he says. But they come out the right size because they fudge a bit on seams. They dismiss their quilt imperfections by likening them to the famous Amish quiltmakers who deliberately never make a perfect quilt because only God can be perfect.
“I like quilting because I can’t walk around good like I used to,” he says. But he is agile enough to get down on the floor to help pin the quilts and play with his 22-month-old great-great nephew, Abraham.
“My son just loves Uncle Herb and follows him around everywhere,” says Jessie Lougeay-Branson. Everyone is attracted to Weiss because of his easygoing attitude and patience, family members say. Adamson and Weiss joke and grouse like long-time companions. “He’s always saying, ‘I can’t do anything anymore,’ but he does,” Adamson says.
When they shop for fabrics, he jokes that he is color blind. “Actually, he has a good eye for color and patterns,” she says, pointing to a pink butterfly material they used for a baby blanket. He ribs her some more, telling the story of how they went for a long ride recently and “stopped in a bar in Hartsel.” “For food and the restroom,” Adamson interjects, rolling her eyes. Weiss says the secret to a long happy life is “to not worry about everything.” And of course, quilting. “I think I am going to sew until I’m 115. But it will depend on the fabric I can get,” Weiss says. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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A Little Help From Your Friends FRAZER SUPPORT GROUPS Noon Salad Luncheon with Dr. Don Hill Dr. Hill speaks on a variety of topics giving practical suggestions for living a successful life. The purpose is to provide coping skills to help when we are faced with a crisis. It is an opportunity to come and fellowship with others. Serving lines open at 11:15. Dr. Hill begins speaking at 12:15. Second Tuesday | January-May | Cost $5 11:15 a.m.-12:40 p.m. | Fellowship Hall
DivorceShare (ongoing) If you are beginning the process of divorce or have recently divorced, this sharing group will allow you to express your feelings, knowing that others experience some of the same emotions. Participation can continue for several weeks. A staff registration table is in the Fellowship Hall lobby beginning at 5 p.m. each Tuesday January 4 – April 26 | 5:30 p.m. Room number provided at registration
DivorceCare This 13-week group, more structured than DivorceShare, uses a workbook, videotapes and discussions for support and guidance as you work through the issues, pain and pressures surrounding divorce. Begin any week but complete all sessions before moving to another group. Registration table is in the Fellowship Hall lobby beginning at 5 p.m. each Tuesday. January 4 – March 29 | 5:30 p.m. | Book $15 Room number provided at registration Divorce Care for Kids (DC4K) This 13-week group helps children heal from the pain of their parents’ separation or divorce. Kids make friends with other kids who understand their feelings. Best of all, kids learn how God’s love can help turn tears to hope and joy. Cost $15 per child and pre-registration is required. January 4 – March 29 | 5:30 p.m. Room number provided at registration Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support Group This group provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/ survivors, family, friends or anyone inter-
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ested in becoming part of this compassionate journey. Second Tuesday | 5:30 p.m. | Room 8114
the church office at 272-8622 First Thursday | 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Room 3103
Sjogren’s Support Group This group is for those with Sjogren’s disease and the family members of those affected by this disease. For additional information, call the church office at 272-8622. Third Tuesday | 6:30-8 p.m. | Room 3104
ADHD Support Group This group is presented by CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). The first hour is for parents of children with ADHD. The second hour is for adults with ADHD For additional information, call Joy Germanos 215-4428 or the church office at 272-8622. Second Thursday | 6 p.m.-8:15 p.m. | Room 8114
Fibromyalgia Support Group This group is for those that have Fibromyalgia and for the family members and friends of those with Fibromyalgia. For additional information, please call the church office at 272-8622. Third Tuesday of each month | 6-8 p.m. | Room 8114
Grief Support Group This group is for those newly bereaved or those who have grief that has never been reconciled. There is no timetable for this process. This foundational group deals with stages of grief, the emotional storms that come with it, and ways of dealing with loss. Every Tuesday | 5:30 p.m. | Room 3105 A separate Suicide Grief Support Group for those with the unique challenges of grief in the aftermath of suicide meets at the same time. Sunshine Outlives Storms - S.O.S. Sunshine Outlives Storms is a 5-week support group for children and youth, age kindergarten through 12th grade, who are going through painful transition through the death of a loved one. The children have an opportunity to express their thoughts and questions in a neutral and supportive atmosphere with a small group. Pre-registration required. Meets as Needed | 5:30-6:30 p.m. Room 6100’s
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers’ Support Group This group is for caregivers and family members of those affected by Alzheimer’s & Dementia. For additional information, call
Depression/Bipolar Support Group This group is for those with Depression and Bipolar disorders and the family of those individuals. For additional information, call the church office at 272-8322. First Thursday | 7 – 8 p.m. | Room 3101
APAC – Alabama Pre/Post-Adoption Connection Support Group This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. For additional information, call Bridgette Gilley at 409-9477. Third Thursday | 6 – 7:30 p.m. | Room 8114 Parkinson’s Support Group This group is for those who have Parkinson’s disease and the family members of those affected by this disease. For additional information, call the church office at 272-8622. Fourth Thursday | 6 p.m. | Room 8114
HEARING IMPAIRED SUPPORT GROUP
The group will meet the second Thurs. of each month at First Methodist Church, 4-6 PM, refreshments and speakers will be provided. BOOM! wants to help you find support . This month we’ve listed some of the support groups offered at Frazer Church. If you know of support groups availble for people 50+, please submit them to jim@riverregionboom.com. Thanks for helping those in need.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Drawing March 12th
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Never Give Up... By Wina Sturgeon
One thing about being a boomer is that we keep our friends. I’ve known my friend Barbara for nearly three decades. She’s always been sharp and vibrant; and still is, but much of our friendship is now by phone and e-mail because we live so far apart.
But when we got together for a rare visit over the holidays, I was shocked at how she had changed. Her hair was no longer the carefully styled, shiny russet mane it had always been. It was now a nondescript jumble of gray. Her always elegant clothing was gone, replaced by plain sweaters and sweat pants. Most startling to me, she had stopped wearing makeup. The wonderful youthful quality that always seemed to belie her age was also gone. Suddenly, in less than a year, she looked 20 years older. We’re close enough so that I could ask her about it. Her answer shocked me. “I’ve just given up. No one ever thinks someone my age (63) is attractive. No one markets any fashion or cosmetics to women my age. We’re just not considered worth looking at. Trying to fix myself up was just a waste of time,” she said.
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It was a horrible answer _ because she was right. The image of what is attractive, pretty or good looking in our society is unwrinkled youth. This image is constantly conditioned into our minds in every form of visual media: magazines and newspapers, films, and most especially, television. Character doesn’t count, only a lack of wrinkles and youth.
The constant reinforcement that age is ugly has been such a profound conditioning process that no one even likes to look at an obviously older face. It’s had a sad and serious effect in the workplace. A boomer, even a young boomer, finds it almost impossible to be hired for a job. Talent doesn’t matter. The ability to be a real asset to a company doesn’t matter. The only thing that matters is that the face of the job applicant looks young. So some boomers, like Barbara, give up. They give up hope that expensive
wrinkle creams can disguise their age, so they stop buying them. Both men and women boomers have closets full of expensive and stylish clothing that they never have occasion to wear _ so they stop buying new clothing. They realize it’s impossible to look young any longer, and so there’s no sense in trying. They know the sad truth _ that today, a large and ever growing segment of the population essentially becomes invisible once they start to look older.
I’m not pretending that there’s anything photogenic or attractive about a wrinkled face, even if it’s Mick Jagger’s. But how much of this attitude comes from long term conditioning, and how much is actually based on reality? I know that before Barbara “gave up,”
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everyone totally forgot about her age as soon as they interacted with her, as soon as she opened her mouth. She was so interesting, funny and charming that any negative association with her age disappeared. Barbara isn’t the only one. It happens mostly with women, but I’ve seen so many boomer male and female friends hit that moment, the “give-up” moment when they realize that their age has shoved them outside the mainstream of social life. And for the sake of reality, that process should stop. Look at it as a form of protest to keep making an effort to be attractive at any age. Regard it as a way of fighting against the existing _ and growing _ anti-age bias. Because the truth is, not everyone is 20, and even 20-year-olds won’t stay young forever. Eventually, everyone lucky enough to live will be a boomer.
Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support Group, Tuesday, March 8th, 5:30 Frazer United Methodist Church, Room 8114, 6000 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery AL.
“Friendship Through Cancer” Patti Barnes & Martha Smith, Members of WOH Enjoy fun and fellowship with your breast cancer “sisters” and friends! For information please call 334-220-4599 or email womenofhope@charter.net.
Our goal is to make sure that all women AND men are educated about breast cancer and the effects it has on family and friends. Hope is the assurance that one day we will be able to live cancer free! Your support is greatly appreciated and helps so many deserving breast cancer patients and survivors including their families. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support Group meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month (Jan-Nov). Meetings are held at 5:30 p.m.
Wina Sturgeon is an active boomer based in Salt Lake City who snowshoes, skates on both ice blades and wheels, lifts weights and skis to stay in shape. (c) 2011, Adventure Sports Weekly (adventuresportsweekly.com) Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
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BOOM! Magazine Delivers the Boomer Market Take advantage of this new opportunity, contact Jim Watson, 334.324.3472 jim@riverregionboom.com The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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With a click, they found love Single at 72, they fell for each other like teens
By Elizabeth Leland
C
cause she no longer felt comfortable driving at night. She would just quit going out at night. So be it. Then several weeks later, in May 2009, she was at her dentist’s office and who should walk in? The man from the Internet, all 6 feet 4 handsome inches of him.
huck and Jane Ellen noticed each other on an online dating service and, at first glance, they seemed like a good match. He worked as a chauffeur. She was looking for a companion to drive her at night, to the theater and out to dinner. He is 6 feet 4; she is 6 feet. Both love animals. They also shared something else in common with each other and with an increasing number of people who are turning to the Internet to find companionship: Chuck and Jane Ellen are older adults, both 72.
It took him a moment to recognize her, the elegant lady in the Internet photo, her gray hair pulled back in a gentle sweep, a slight smile on her lips. It wasn’t love at first sight. But they enjoyed talking. When he got home, he e-mailed her for a lunch date _ and that time, he showed up.
A generation ago, it was unusual for a 72-year-old to venture out to seek another companion after losing a spouse to death or divorce. Times have changed. And, with the Internet, older adults have found a place to meet. So at 72, Chuck and Jane Ellen arranged to get together for coffee.
The day of the appointment, he got a job and asked to reschedule. She graciously postponed. Then the second date came, and he got another job and asked to reschedule again.
In the world of love, two strikes are enough for an out. “I don’t think you’re ready for dating,” she e-mailed. “But we can be friends. Nobody ever has too many friends.” In other words, don’t bother calling me again. “You’re right,” he e-mailed back. “Maybe we can meet someday.” In other words, don’t bother calling me again.
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His kiss is just a ...
After soup and salad, he drove her home, unsure what to do next. “Do I kiss her goodbye?” he wondered. “Or do I shake her hand? Or do I hug her? What do I do? I was only 72!”
Life on her own terms
She had enough of Internet dating with that first near-encounter, and didn’t renew her account.
Though experts on aging say more older men and women are finding companionship and often love, Jane Ellen adjusted to the idea that she wouldn’t be among them. She had been single for more than 30 years, since her divorce, and had carved out a good life, on her own terms. She had only wanted to meet a man be-
He gave her what she describes as a “teaser kiss,” his lips barely brushing hers.
She felt as nervous as he did. Adults, she discovered, have the same fears as teenagers. “Will he like me? Do I look OK? What are we going to talk about? You know it won’t be the end of the world because you’re not 16. But you have these jittery feelings.”
A week later, she invited him and Amy, his Cavalier King Charles spaniel, to dinner. Beauregard, her cat, was not as happy to see them as she was. The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
At the end of the evening, his kiss lingered. “The kind of kiss,” she said, “that says he wants to come back again.”
... and butterflies
And so he did. He invited her for dinner. His son, Brian Doolittle, who is 46 and co-owner of Do A Little Floral in Charlotte, offered to cook ribs. It had been more than a year since Brian’s mother died. Brian thought his father had resigned himself to being alone. He seemed happy enough putting his time and energy into chauffeuring. But the night of the dinner, his father acted like a different person. “You had to see it,” Brian said. “The holding of the hands. The constant looking at each other. It was this enamored where-have-you-been kind of thing.”
Finding love at 72 surprised both Chuck and Jane Ellen. “It was like I was 16 again,” she said. “I had butterflies in my stomach.” Falling in love is more accepted now for older people, said Jerrold Kemp of Mariposa, Calif., coauthor with his wife, Edith Ankersmit, of “Older Couples, New Romances: Finding and Keeping Love in Later Life.” They married 15 years ago when he was 74 and she was 66.
“It used to be when you lost your mate, either by divorce or death, there wasn’t a great push for people to look into changing their lives and enjoying the future,” Kemp said. “People are different today.”
What have we done?
Jane Ellen is a deliberate woman. She’s been planning a kitchen renovation for two years. But a couple of months after they met, when Chuck asked her to marry him, she realized she could live without a new kitchen, but not without this man she barely knew.
“He makes me laugh every day,” she said. “He does something nice for me every day and he doesn’t even know it.” She accepted his proposal. They looked at each other in disbelief. What have we done? The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
“I never considered I might marry again,” she said. “Been there. Done that. I liked the single life. I could do what I want to do, go to bed when I want.” She stays up late; he gets up early. “I just wanted somebody to go with to the show, to have dinner with, and conversation,” Chuck said. “That’s all.” The percentage of older people who remarry is increasing, AARP says. Baby boomers are aging. They’re living longer. And the Internet gives them a place to find each other. Without the Internet, Chuck and Jane Ellen might never have met even though they lived six miles apart.
The number of older adults living together outside marriage also is increasing, AARP found, because marrying at an older age can often mean giving up pensions, Social Security benefits and health insurance. Regardless of how they frame their relationship, studies show, desire for companionship is what draws most older adults together.
A wink and a smile
They were married on Sept. 10, 2009, but they are still getting to know each other. They each have 72 years of experiences to talk about _ including his job as a food broker, hers in finance, his life in Wisconsin before retiring to Charlotte, hers in California. “We’re learning each other,” Chuck said. He winked. She smiled. Like teenagers in love. “We want it to stay that way,” Jane Ellen said. “... We realize what a rarity it is.” And his dog and her cat? It wasn’t love at first sight either. But, as Chuck and Jane Ellen tell their single friends, you never know what might happen. Seniors seeking seniors, Chuck and Jane Ellen met through www.seniorpeoplemeet .com and recommend it as a safe place to meet others. (c) 2011, Carolina Bride/Charlotte Observer. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
What Really Matters As I carried food from the great big refrigerator in our kitchen to our spill-over refrigerator in the garage, I thought: Maybe this is the Surprise of the Week. In the middle of the afternoon, the fridge just stopped working. We called the Maytag guy and started cleaning the inside of the refrigerator. While making dinner. And getting ready for house guests. A great opportunity for complaining and fretting. But we didn’t complain or fret. We just took care of business, one task at a time. She washed and I wiped. I thought, these are the personal strengths that are important right now _ acceptance, decisiveness, initiative, composure, patience and cooperation. Something always happens, right? You never know what it’s going to be. Some problem. Some challenge. Some calamity. Some crisis. Every day, dealing with issues here and there. And then, about once a week, something major. Par for the course. Deal with it. I think about this kind of thing when I go to weddings. I once knew a guy who spent $2 million on his daughter’s wedding. He wanted to get them started right. A great wedding doesn’t do one thing to help a young couple get started right. None of this hoopla and ceremony and partying will help one tiny bit when the calamities and surprises start rolling in on a regular basis. When that happens, the only thing that matters is personal strength. If you want to get your married life off to a good start, what matters is choosing well. What counts is when a whole lot of years later in the middle of a family crisis your spouse looks over at you, grins and says, “We make a good team.” Dennis E. Coates, Ph.D., is co-founder and CEO of Performance Support Systems, Inc.
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Healthy Hearing
by Dr. Bettie Borton Au.D. bchampion1@aol.com
Two Ears are Better than One… The Advantages of Binaural Hearing Has your audiologist recommended “binaural hearing devices”? Don’t panic. Binaural simply means “two ears” – which is what nature gave you. Two ears are, indeed, better than Dr. Bettie Borton Au. D. one for a number of reasons.Just like our eyes, our brains are wired to receive sound from both ears. Many first time hearing aid wearers think starting with just one hearing aid may be easier to adjust to or save them some money; however, two hearing aids are truly better than one. Here are some reasons why: • Better localization – the ability to tell where sounds are coming from • Better hearing in background noise
• Better sound quality (“mono” versus “stereo”)
• Better hearing for soft sounds such as children’s voices and sounds of nature
• Less strain on you while listening - with only one hearing aid you may often strain to hear various sounds and become fatigued, with two hearing aids listening is more relaxed
• Listening balance – you won’t be turning your “good” ear to hear. Higher success and satisfaction - studies indicate people who wear two hearing aids are much more satisfied with their hearing aids. Studies have also shown when only one hearing aid is worn and the other ear is deprived of sound, the “use it or lose it” principle applies, causing the onset of auditory deprivation in the non-amplified ear. In other words, the word recognition ability in the unaided ear decreases from lack of stimulation – and this spells trouble for those who think they can successfully add a second aid – later.
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So, you may save a few dollars by going the one-hearing-aid route but you may also find that one hearing aid causes more trouble than what your savings is worth. Let’s take a closer look at why two hearing aids are almost always better than the one-hearing aid approach to hearing loss.
Improved Localization Localization is the ability to detect and determine the source of a sound. It’s a natural and sophisticated process that enables you to pinpoint the exact location of a bird twittering in the trees 100 yards away, for example. The reason for this is simple. Sound travels in waves – disturbances in the air. The hair cells in our inner ears have the miraculous ability to turn mechanical sound waves into electrical impulses that are sent to the hearing centers of the brain where the sound is interpreted and localization occurs. When that bird tweets and twitters, the sounds it makes reach one ear slightly ahead of the other ear. If the bird is to your right, the right ear hears the sound a split second before the left ear. The brain is able to localize the sound because of this split second difference in the time it takes the sound to be processed. The hearing centers of the brain are able to pinpoint the location and source of the sound. Localization is an essential part of the listening experience. It warns us of danger, points us in the direction of a distant caller or tells us which machine is running on the factory floor. The ability to pinpoint the source of a sound is something you use everyday, though you may not even realize it. In fact, in most cases, you DON’T realize it. It happens automatically – at least when both ears are operating at peak performance levels. Indeed, you may save a few dollars by only buying a hearing aid for the ear that’s experiencing hearing loss but you’ll also lose some or all of your ability to place the source of critical sounds. And that’s not going to enhance your hearing. In fact, it may actually
cause confusion and place you in danger because you think the car horn is coming from over there when, in fact, it’s coming from right behind you.
Many new hearing devices employ wireless communication between the two instruments – allowing them to work together to ensure localization cues are maintained between the two ears. The left and right hearing aids communicate with each other to ensure they are utilizing the same listening strategies in different environments. When two hearing devices are wirelessly linked, they “talk with each other”. This allows the two hearing aids to improve the ability to locate the direction of sounds and ultimately improve your listening experience. The result? You’ll be able to localize sound – to precisely pinpoint the source of all the sounds you hear throughout the day. This is especially important when in background noise.
Easy Listening No, we’re not talking about music here. Advantages listed of wearing two hearing aids include improved listening in background noise as well as reduced strain while listening. Let’s face it, background noise is annoying – even for people with normal hearing! So for persons with hearing loss wearing hearing aids, background niose can be even more annoying. Using two hearing aids, properly tuned to address the different hearing loss of each ear, cuts through some of this background noise enabling you to hear more clearly. The brain retrains itself to filter out unnecessary noise while picking up the sounds of your dinner companion without having to turn your head so your hearing aid is pointing directly at the speaker. This not only improves your ability to listen in background noise, but you will no longer have to strain to hear. Improved Sound Quality Mono versus stereo sound. Which sounds better? Stereo, of course. And with two hearing aids, properly adjusted to meet the differing hearing needs of each ear,
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you enjoy a better quality of sound. In simple terms, the world sounds better in stereo.
A soft sound may go undetected by one ear but picked up by the other ear – the one closer to the source of the sound. Your ability to hear the soft sounds that you’ve always taken for granted is greatly improved when you go binaural because both ears are amped to the proper level to hear even the soft whisper of a loved one – and that’s something that you just can’t put a price tag on.
Hearing Balance The natural state of binaural hearing is hearing with both ears in balance. An audiologist or hearing aid professional can adjust each hearing aid to fit your hearing needs, delivering hearing balance and a much improved listening experience. The Listening Experience Talk to your audiologist about options. The best course is the one that delivers the most satisfying listening experience – the listening experience that you’re used to. The one you’ve enjoyed all these years. Hearing is a quality of life consideration. So, spend the extra few bucks to get improved localization, hear-through sound that’s natural and organic. Get back your ability to hear soft sounds or sounds in higher frequency ranges and skip the stiff neck syndrome that a single hearing aid creates as you turn your head throughout the day to hear. Go binaural and get back into life. Hear the way nature intended you to hear – with two ears. The cost, when weighed against the benefits, is insignificant. You’ve got two ears. Might as well use them both to hear the world around you. After all, you don’t want to miss a single sound.
To learn more, visit doctorshearingclinic.com or call for an evaluation at (334) 396-1635. Dr. Bettie B. Borton is a licensed audiologist in Alabama, was the first board certified audiologist in Montgomery, and recently served as National Chair of the American Board of Audiology. She and her husband, Dr. Tom Borton, are the only audiologists with ABA certification in the Montgomery area.
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Your Kid Wants to Join the YOUR SENIOR IN HIGH SCHOOL IS GRADUATING THIS YEAR, and you have been looking forward to talking about college and entrance exams, and scouting out the best schools for your child’s major. You feel fulfilled as a parent for a job well done as you think of your son or daughter moving on to realize their life dream in a career that will bring them satisfaction and a good paycheck for decades to come.
And then it happens: “Mom, I talked to a recruiter today! He told me that my future is bright in the armed forces. I’m joining up as soon as I graduate. He said I’d make a great helicopter gunner or maybe get trained as a sniper.” Obvious excitement adorns your child’s face as your heart drops to your toes in shock. This is not what you had envisioned for your child’s future at all. It seems like the whole world is moving toward war more and more each day. You have read the stories of parents whose children have died in action and the rest of the horrors that go with becoming a soldier in our present time of growing military action all over the world. While those parents were proud of their children for fighting for their country, the grief and anguish over the danger and possible death of their children is real, and you cannot imagine possibly going through it yourself. Regardless of your political beliefs, it is time to put them away and listen to your child’s reasons for wanting to go into the military. Bombarding him or her with your outrage over how the government steals our children away to put them in minute-by-minute harm is not the point. There are just as many parents who are proud of their kids joining the armed forces to serve their country as there are those who feel it
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MILITARY?
is a travesty and do not support our troops.
You would not be a loving parent if you did not worry about all of the negative possibilities ahead of any child going into the military. With the deep-hearted love we have for our kids, worrying over them is normal and part of the road map to their leaving home, no matter what their plans are for the future. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help your child make sure he or she is joining up for the right reasons. Now more than ever, your child needs your support and assurance that your love is continuous and unconditional regardless.
UNDERSTAND RECENT CHANGES IN MILITARY EDUCATION AND BENEFITS Choosing to join the armed forces is not always a bad thing, as there have been many changes in the educational and financial opportunities afforded to recruits in past years. After new recruit or officer training, service members typically go to advanced training, which is functional training for their assigned
occupational fields. Advanced training is a classroom environment similar to college or junior college. In fact, the American Council on Education certifies more than 60 percent of advanced training courses as college credit. Training schools are located throughout the country, and training lasts from a By Jilly Prather few weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity of the subject matter (http://www.todaysmilitary.com/benefits/training).
If your child decides to get a bachelor’s degree before entering the military, he or she is immediately qualified to sign on as an officer with elite training, which means a much bigger paycheck. Education in the military is focused and intense within the vocation. This means your child can get a substantial degree in much less time.
A new enlistment bonus has also been generated, which means that your child will receive $40,000 as a new enlistee. After 17 months of service, he or she is qualified for an additional $80,000 for reenlisting. There are also over 70 other pay benefits available for housing, food, child support, combat pay, overseas pay, family pay, tuition assistance, medical, family separation allowances, dislocation and clothing allowances, plus much more (http://www.military. com/benefits/military-pay/enlistmentand-reenlistment-bonuses).
Once the enlistee leaves the military, there are numerous benefits available within the GI Bill. Some is money
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for education in a new field, which includes benefits for the spouse and children of the veteran. The GI Bill also offers home loans at greatly reduced prices. Military veterans are entitled to a home loan guarantee of up to $359,650 when they purchase a home. Veterans also receive medical care for life, disability benefits and more. Joining up in the military has many perks available to men and women who otherwise would have to work for decades in order to qualify for the same services as civilians.
ESTABLISH COMMUNICATION
After your child has made the big announcement, make a date to go to dinner together somewhere quiet and relaxing. Even a quiet meal at home is a good place to ask questions as to your child’s motivations for wanting to join the military. Ask questions as to why he or she wants to join up. Sometimes kids feel like the military is much easier than college, or they are having a hard time deciding on a major, or they are experiencing fears of being unsuccessful at getting top grades and making the right associations needed these days to succeed.
Some feel like they do not belong or feel disjointed, and the military would give them a sense of camaraderie and cohesiveness. Others want to pursue the armed forces as a career to take advantage of the opportunity to see the world, get specialized education, develop leadership abilities that will take them to heights they could not otherwise achieve, or take advantage of the strict discipline that will train them to be stronger people. Thousands of men and women who have made a career out of the military say that it was here they acquired the leadership skills that have taken them to great fulfillment. This is a time to listen with your heart _ an open heart. Negative ranting about your political, anti-war beliefs or your fears that he or she will not be safe will only serve to put a deep wedge between you and your child. The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
TALK TO A RECRUITER TOGETHER
STRESS NOT
Go together to a recruiter and learn all you can about the branch of service your child wants to join. This is where you can ask all the questions you want and get direct answers from a professional. Ask the recruiter if your child will actually get the education he or she desires, or if new service people have to wait until they have served for a certain amount of time. Make sure your child realizes that the pay is barely enough to get by in the beginning, boot camp is grueling and he or she will have to be able to handle being uprooted often.
Last but not least, stressing and worrying to the point of sickness is useless. No matter what your child chooses to do, leaving the nest is necessary and inevitable. Danger is everywhere these days, whether your child is entering college or the military. Be happy that your child had the love and respect to come to you with these ideas. If you become negative and unsupportive, your child will not likely come to you with important decisions in the future.
SPEAK WITH CAREER MILITARY PEOPLE
Speaking with others who have actually made the military a career is a great way to get information straight from those who have experienced it. If you know someone who joined the armed forces for any length of time, ask if he or she will honestly share whether it was a good experience or not _ and ask if he or she would do it again. While recruiters are trained to give a hard sell to get kids to join up, someone with actual experience will be able to give your child a non-biased, truthful idea of what it is all about. Some will say it was the best choice they ever made, and others will likely feel differently. You will at least be able to come away from the conversation with valuable information that will help your child make an informed decision.
Kids come in various packages. Some are impulsive and tend to do what their friends are doing. However, most are more mature and know how to think out their decisions by now. Whatever road your child chooses for the future, it is his or her future. All you can do is listen, offer your loving advice and thoughts, and support your child’s final decision.
When all is said and done, your unconditional support and love are what your child will keep close and treasure for the rest of his or her life, whether that choice ends up being to attend college at home or join the military. You do not need to agree with the decision. But you do need to continue to love and support them no matter what. MyTurn.com (http://myturn.com) is the online
community for moms of adult children and empty nesters. (c) 2011, MyTurn.com. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune News Service.
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Four Hundred Years Later, KJV Is Still Influential
By Gary Palmer
This year marks the 400th anniversary of the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible that William Lyon Phelps said is “... is the foundation of Anglo-Saxon civilization.”
In 1604, King James I commissioned 54 scholars from Oxford and Cambridge Universities to produce one uniform translation of the Bible that all denominations could accept. It’s unlikely that there has ever been another group of translators whose collective expertise in biblical languages was equal to this group. The 47 scholars who agreed to participate were arranged in six companies: two met at Cambridge and two met at Oxford Universities and both were under the direction of the royal Hebrew professors while two companies at Westminster Cathedral met under the supervision of the dean.
Benson Bobrick, author of Wide as the Waters, wrote that because of the people’s desire to read the Bible, the English translation, known as the Authorized Version in Great Britain, helped Great Britain become the most literate nation in the world. In terms of the language of the KJV, about 90 percent are Anglo-Saxon words with a vocabulary of only about eight thousand words for the entire translation and was the first major work of English prose based primarily on Anglo-Saxon words instead of Latin.
The King James translation established the prose style for English and American literature and became the foundation of modern English language giving us words and phrases that are common parts of our language today. In his History of England, Thomas Macaulay, said that “... if everything else in our language should perish it would alone suffice to show the whole extent of its beauty and power.”
Bobrick wrote, “Its subsequent impact on English (and American) literature might be traced in a thousand ways-in the work of religious writers like Milton and Bunyan, or their more secular brethren like D.H. Lawrence, Walt Whitman, and Defoe. Without the King James Version, it has been said, ‘there would be no Paradise Lost, no Pilgrim’s Progress, no Negro Spirituals, no Gettysburg Address.’” As Britain’s literacy rate increased, it fostered a spirit of inquiry which led to people reading books and tracts that
Still asking what you can do for your country? There’s another place where you can share your wealth of experience.
800.424.8580 www.peacecorps.gov
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Life is calling. How far will you go?
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
transformed the laws and government in Great Britain and ultimately laid the foundation for American political thought and our Founders’ ideas about individual liberty and constitutional government. Including the 1611 edition, there were four other editions of the King James Bible which were published in 1629, 1638, 1762 and 1769; the last is the version that is most commonly cited today.
“Next to the Bible itself,” Bobrick wrote, “the English Bible was (and is) the most influential book ever published.” According to Vanderbilt University Press, the KJV is the best-selling book of all time with more than 5 billion copies sold and it is the most frequently quoted book ever written.
The light was the biblical light that the English Bible had given them: the idea of the equality of man. It was the idea of the sacred and equal importance of every man, as made in the image of God. But no single faith could claim it as its own.
After four hundred years, the King James Version of the Bible still continues to influence America’s political ideals, cultural standards and moral boundaries.
profit research and education organization dedicated to the preservation of free markets, limited government and strong families, which are indispensable to a prosperous society.
For information or comments, contact Gary Palmer, Alabama Policy Institute, 402 Office Park Drive, Suite 300, Birmingham, Alabama 35223, 205.870.9900, or email garyp@alabamapolicy. org.
Gary Palmer is president of the Alabama Policy Institute, a non-partisan, non-
Russell Kirk concluded that it was the book that was to exert a stronger influence than any other in America. He wrote, “Read from American pulpits and in the great majority of American households during colonial times, the Authorized Version shaped the style, informed the intellect, affected the laws, and decreed the morals of the North American colonies.”
P. Marion Simms wrote, “No nation in all history was ever founded by people so dominated by the Bible as America.” In fact, every American president except Franklin Pierce has been sworn in with their hands placed on a King James Bible. Some will argue that President Obama did not take the oath with his hand on the Bible because he had to re-take the oath of office after constitutional experts questioned the validity of the oath he took at his inauguration. Unfortunately, no one thought to bring a Bible, but at his inaugural, he took the oath with his hand on Lincoln’s Bible Even though it was published after the Jamestown Colony was established, the King James Bible was the book that had the greatest impact on the shaping of the American culture. G.K. Chesterton wrote, “[The English] did not really drive away the American colonists, nor were they driven. The [Americans] were led on by a light that went before.”
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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MARCH 2011
{12 Things} for active boomers and beyond
MONTGOMERY
Don Williams Concert Sunday, March 27, 2011 at 7:30 pm Tickets: 43.00, 33.00
Don Williams is an American country singer, songwriter and a 2010 inductee to the Country Music Hall of Fame.His first single with ABC/ Dot, “I Wouldn’t Want to Live If You Didn’t Love Me,” became a number one hit, and was the first of a string of top ten hits he had between 1974 and 1991 . Only four of his 46 singles didn’t make it to the Top Ten. His straightforward yet smooth bassbaritone voice, soft tones, and an imposing build earned him the nickname “The Gentle Giant” of country music. MPAC Box Office 334-481-5100, www.ticketmaster.com, www.mpaconline.org
BIRMINGHAM
“Lucia di Lammermoor” Opera Friday, Mar 18 Birmingham Opera Birmingham presents “Lucia di Lammermoor” 205-322-6737. www.operabirmingham.org. Admission charged. Wright Center at Samford University--Opera Birmingham, Alabama’s largest opera company will produce Gaetano Donizetti’s “Lucia di Lammermoor,” on Friday, March 18 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 20 at 2:30 p.m. at Samford University’s Wright Center. Tickets are available to both performances of “Lucia di Lammermoor” and may be purchased by phone at 205322-6737, online at www.operabirming-
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ham.org, or by visiting the Opera Birmingham office at 3601 Sixth Avenue South. Single tickets range from $25 (balcony) to $90 (center front orchestra), and student tickets may be purchased for $12 with a valid ID. Group rates are also available. 7:30pm - 10:30pm
MONTGOMERY
The Fab Four Saturday, March 19, 2011 at 8:00pm Tickets: $23.50 and $33.50
The Fab Four is elevated far above every other Beatles tribute due to their precise attention to detail. With uncanny, note for note live renditions of Beatles’ songs, the Fab Four will make you think you are watching the real thing. Hosted by “Ed Sullivan” this incredible multimedia stage production includes three costume changes representing every era of the Beatles ever-changing career. This loving tribute to the Beatles has amazed audiences all over the world, including Japan, Australia, Hong Kong, The United Kingdom, Germany, Mexico, and Canada. If you want to see the BEST show in the world, you won’t want to miss The Fab Four. MPAC Box Office 334481-5100, www.ticketmaster.com, www. mpaconline.org
MONTGOMERY
The Flag Maker of Market Street at ASF Through Saturday, Mar 19 By day George Cowles is a respected Montgomery merchant whose store produced the very first Confederate flag. But by night, Cowles is a Unionist who is secretly running anti-Confederate meetings and supplying the North with vital military
information. When a customer becomes suspicious of his activities, Cowles’ life and the lives of everyone close to him are placed in jeopardy. Tickets start at $30 and are available at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival box office, on line at www.asf.net or by phone at 1.800.841.4273. ASF is located at 1 Festival Drive in the heart of Montgomery’s beautiful Blount Cultural Park. www. asf.net
MONTGOMERY Thrasher Brothers
Troy University’s Davis Theatre
Friday, March 18, 7 pm
Award-winning vocal group the Thrasher Brothers with special guest Neil Thrasher will perform at Troy University’s Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. Birmingham natives Jim, Buddy and Joe Thrasher have won a Dove Award and four Grammy Awards for their country and Southern gospel songs, including classics such as “One Day at a Time” and “Still the One.” The group was inducted in the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in 2005. Tickets for the performance range from $20 to $45. Tickets can be purchased at the theatre office located at 251 Montgomery Street or by calling (334) 241-9567. Office hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m. to noon.
MONTGOMERY
The Tipping Point St. Paddy’s Day Shindig Thursday, March 17 , 8-11pm The Tipping Point - St. Paddy’s Day Shindig featuring live bluegrass in the Beer Garden with the Goat Hill String Band (8 to 11 p.m.) The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
MONTGOMERY
Shucktacular Saturday The Tipping Point Saturday, March 19, 3-7 pm The Tipping Point - Shucktacular Saturday brought to you by The Tipping Point and Filet & Vine featuring 2 live bands, beer tastings, oyster plates and Montgomery’s best beer selection. Tickets $25 and available for purchase in advance at The Tipping Point and Filet & Vine. Call 334.260.9110 for details (3 to 7 p.m.)
MONTGOMERY
Color and Light Photographs by Carl Burton Montgomery Museum of Fine Art Through March 13 During a thirty-year career as a professional photographer, Carl Burton has documented the distinctive landscapes of Europe and the United States with particular focus on New York City. His images record both splendid vistas as well as beguiling details. Because he works with a panoramic camera and large, horizontal prints, the viewer is enveloped by the environments that Burton records. The artist writes, “As I work, I’m dazzled by the beauty I see, by the intensity and quality of light, by color, and by the world’s evanescence. Indeed, as I look over my work, I realize that I’m trying to stop time and capture a small part of the world before it disappears or is completely transformed. Most of the New York images, for example, now serve as records of places that no longer exist. My images document the subtle— and not-so-subtle—ways that people make their mark on the natural world.” For information, mmfa.org or 334.240.4333
MONTGOMERY
MAX Capital City Classic Alabama vs Auburn Baseball Classic Tuesday, Mar 15, 7:05 pm Montgomery MAX Capital City Classic The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
334-323-0362. www.maxcapitalcityclassic.com. Admission charged. Riverwalk Stadium--The Rivalry Continues...Auburn and Alabama compete in a baseball game with a football game atmosphere in Downtown Montgomery. Enjoy Big Al, Aubie, bands and much more at the 3rd Annual MAX Capital City Classic. 7:05 p.m.
FAIRHOPE
59th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival March 18-20 Fairhope 59th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival in Fairhope 251-621-8222. www.eschamber.com/artscrafts. Free. Downtown Fairhope--Juried Arts & Crafts Show, over 200 exhibitors. Live local entertainment on the festival state every hour, unique festival foods. Kick-off event for the Spring season. Selected #25 out of 100 Contemporary Crafts Festivals in the nation by Sunshine Artists Magazine. Ranked in t he top 10 events in the state of Alabama by the Tourism Department. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
MONTGOMERY Montgomery Zoo ZOO Weekend April 2-3
Mark your calendar today to make plans to visit the Montgomery Zoo April 2 – 3, 2011, for the 35th Annual Zoo Weekend. Watch as the Montgomery Zoo is transformed into a festive environment filled with wildlife adventure and fun. Roam through the Zoo’s five continental realms seeing exotic animals from around the globe. Enjoy games and rides while winning prizes and treats. Enjoy a ride on a camel or pony. Enter a petting zoo area and feed the animals. See live entertainment including music, dance teams, shows from Ronald McDonald, and karate and MPD Canine unit demonstrations. For more
information, please call (334) 240-4900 or check our out web site at www.montgomeryzoo.com.
OPP
51st Annual Opp Rattlesnake Rodeo April 1-2 Apr 1-2, Opp Opp Rattlesnake Rodeo, 51st Annual 334493-7840 or 334-8586624. www. rattlesnakerodeo.com. Admission charged. Opp Channell-Lee Stadium--Weekend filled with food, children’s activities, musical entertainment, snake races, buck dancing, karaoke contests, beauty queens, arts, crafts, and a headliner concert. 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
MONTGOMERY
The Montgomery Ballet presents Romeo and Juliet Friday, April 8, 2011 at 7:30pm and Saturday, April 9, 2011 at 2:30pm and 7:30pm
The Montgomery Ballet and the MPAC present Romeo and Juliet , a full length ballet in 3 acts. Shakespeare’s masterpiece about Love, Faith, and Pride set to Prokofiev’s haunting score with The Montgomery Ballet’s 26 professional artists and new choreography by its artistic director Elie Lazar, Don’t miss Montgomery Ballet’s début at the MPAC with the perfect love story of all time.
The Boomer Market is to Big to Ignore...How will you Seize the Opportunity? Please submit any events/pictures to jim@riverregionboom.com
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LOL
Laugh Out Loud A senior citizen said to his eightyyear old buddy:
‘So I hear you’re getting married?’ ‘Yep!’
‘Do I know her?’ ‘Nope!’
‘This woman, is she good looking?’ ‘Not really.’
‘Is she a good cook?’
‘Naw, she can’t cook too well.’
‘Does she have lots of money?’
‘Nope! Poor as a church mouse.’ ‘Well, then, is she good in bed?’ ‘I don’t know.’
‘Why in the world do you want to marry her then?’ ‘Because she can still drive!’
A little old man shuffled slowly into an ice cream parlor and pulled himself slowly, painfully, up onto a stool. After catching his breath, he ordered a banana split. The waitress asked kindly, ‘Crushed nuts?’ ‘No,’ he replied, ‘Arthritis.’
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BOOMER & BEYOND HUMOR Couple in their nineties are both having problems remembering things. During a checkup, the doctor tells them that they’re physically okay, but they might want to start writing things down to help them remember... Later that night, while watching TV, the old man gets up from his chair. ‘Want anything while I’m in the kitchen?’ he asks.
Will you get me a bowl of ice cream?’ ‘Sure..’
‘Don’t you think you should write it down so you can remember it?’ she asks. ‘No, I can remember it.’
‘Well, I’d like some strawberries on top, too. Maybe you should write it down, so not to forget it?’
He says, ‘I can remember that. You want a bowl of ice cream with strawberries.’
‘I’d also like whipped cream. I’m certain you’ll forget that, write it down?’ she asks.
Irritated, he says, ‘I don’t need to write it down, I can remember it! Ice cream with strawberries and whipped cream - I got it, for goodness sake!’ Then he toddles into the kitchen. After about 20 minutes, The old man returns from the kitchen and hands his wife a plate of bacon and eggs.. She stares at the plate for a moment. ‘Where’s my toast ?’
Three old guys are out walking.
Two elderly gentlemen from a retirement center were sitting on a bench under a tree when one turns to the other and says: ‘Slim, I’m 83 years old now and I’m just full of aches and pains. I know you’re about my age. How do you feel?’ Slim says, ‘I feel just like a newborn baby.’ ‘Really!? Like a newborn baby!?’
‘Yep. No hair, no teeth, and I think I just wet my pants.’
Morris, an 82 year-old man, went to the doctor to get a physical.
A few days later, the doctor saw Morris walking down the street with a gorgeous young woman on his arm.
First one says, ‘Windy, isn’t it?’
A couple of days later, the doctor spoke to Morris and said, ‘You’re really doing great, aren’t you?’
Third one says, ‘So am I. Let’s go get a beer..’
The doctor said, ‘I didn’t say that.. I said, ‘You’ve got a heart murmur; be careful.’
Second one says, ‘No, it’s Thursday!’
Morris replied, ‘Just doing what you said, Doc: ‘Get a hot mamma and be cheerful.’’
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
. n o o n . k t l a a l l w a c r o f e c n e m r a e f n o C √ eet Bailey at 10 n. √ M sh presentatio ctor exa m. i n i F √ edule yearly do new project. Sc h roposal for Write p
Stuff happens... Don’t let the pace of your busy lifestyle keep you from having a healthy life. Put your health on your to-do list! Do the little things today for a healthy life tomorrow.
It’s all about me. a healthy