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HealthNEWS
for Boomers and Beyond
May 2016
Anatomy of a Stroke Why emergency treatment is vital Maybe you’ve heard the phrase “Time lost is brain lost.” at simple sentence says a lot about the need to treat stroke as an emergency. The longer you wait to seek help for a stroke, the greater the likelihood of damage to the brain—damage that can lead to longterm disability or even death. If you act quickly, however, treatment may stop a stroke and help you or a loved one avoid the devastating consequences of this sudden event.
To do the most good, TPA must be given within a 4 ½-hour window after symptoms start. However, you should arrive at the hospital much sooner than that—within 60 minutes—in order to receive evaluation and treatment. The other type of stroke, hemorrhagic, is treated differently. One way to stop the bleeding is with surgery to place a metal clip at the base of the aneurysm.
Knowing what happens inside the brain during a stroke is key to understanding why all of this is important.
If you think someone is having a stroke, it’s essential to call 911.The sooner you arrive at the hospital, the sooner treatment may begin.
Inside a stroke
Lower your risk Talk with your doctor about your personal risk for stroke. Richard Salazar, a neurologist with The Jackson Clinic says, “Not all risk factors can be changed, such as age or having a family history of stroke. However, you can prevent or treat many risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, being overweight or not exercising. Lifestyle changes and medicines are some ways you can address your risk.”
A stroke occurs when blood–flow to the brain is suddenly disrupted. This can happen in two ways: Ischemic stroke In more than 80 percent of strokes, a blood vessel leading to the brain is blocked by a blood clot. Blood clots can form in arteries narrowed by plaque deposits. Clots also can travel to the brain from other parts of the body, such as the heart. For example, an irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation is a common cause of these traveling clots. Hemorrhagic stroke Less commonly, a weakened blood vessel breaks, spilling blood into or around the brain. One frequent cause is an aneurysm, which occurs when a section of blood vessel weakens and balloons out. Untreated, it can rupture, leaking blood into the brain. Blood vessels weakened by high blood pressure may also be prone to rupture. Brain cells quickly die when they are starved of oxygen and nutrients because of a clot or when they are damaged by bleeding. Stroke can affect any area of the body. One can experience weakness of one side of the body, slurred speech or be unable to speak, numbness, visual disturbances or blindness, trouble walking, sudden confusion, or a droopy face. Why minutes matter Stopping a stroke is key to limiting the damage. At the hospital, doctors work to quickly determine what caused the stroke. For ischemic strokes, they can use a drug called tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) to dissolve the clot and restore blood flow to the brain.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Sources: American Stroke Association; National Institutes of Health If you think someone is having a stroke, call 911. Our experienced stroke team is always ready. Act F.A.S.T. Stroke symptoms happen suddenly. To help people recognize them and act quickly, the American Stroke Association (ASA) encourages everyone to learn the acronym F.A.S.T. It stands for: Face drooping or numbness. Does one side of the face droop? Ask the person to smile. Arm weakness or numbness. Have the person raise both arms. Does one drift downward? Speech difficulty. A person having a stroke may have slurred speech or be unable to speak. Time to call 911. If you notice any stroke symptoms in yourself or someone else, call 911 right away. Stroke Center of Excellence The Joint Commission, in conjunction with The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, has recognized Jackson Hospital with Advanced Certification for Primary Stroke Centers. Achievement of Primary Stroke Center Certification signifies an organization’s dedication to fostering better outcomes for patients. Jackson Hospital’s Primary Stroke Center Certification has demonstrated that the program meets critical elements of performance to achieve long-term success in improving outcomes for stroke patients.
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NEW FRAZER TEACHING SERIES MAY 8–29, 2016
WHEN WE LOVE LIKE JESUS, IT CHANGES ALL THE RULES.
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BOOM!, The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Contents
May 2016
“Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.” Carl Bard
Volume 6 Issue 10
Thought Relationships Taste Inspiration
Humor Advice Health Community
You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” C.S. Lewis
3 Jackson Hospital’s Health News 8 Publisher’s Letter 10 Lagoon Park Trail 11 Healthy Hearing Casey Gonzalez 12 Brain Power – It will make you want to workout Leigh Anne Richards 13 Side by Side Singers 14 “Let’s get it Right”, Brandt McDonald
page 16
16 Volunteers of the Year
Features
36 Latest in Travel Goods
34 Horses Comfort People
Intelligent luggage...personal health and comfort items
With early onset dementia, their caregivers
17 Southern Living Inspired Home Opens May 14
47 “Working Hard”
He’s now 101 years old
18 May is Bike Month 22 BOOM! Cover Profile
Departments 16 This and That
Now You’re “In the Know”
44 {12} Things
Solutions for Bored Boomers
26 Beauty Buzz: 3 Beauty Treatments in 30 Minutes
40 Greg Budell
29 Ask Nancy: Caring for Aging Relatives Mom is too difficult to help!
MOM & THE MAGIC WORD
BOOM!
30 Eating Smart with Tracy Bhalla: Is Sugar Toxic?
COVER PROFILE page 22
32 Estate Planning Mistakes Ask an Elder Law Attorney page 45
35 Get Rid of Meaningless Mementos
page 29
39 Art & Soul: Gallery One Sparking The Arts 2016 43 Dating Coach: You may have a “Phone Pal” page 36 page 12
page 34
Facebook.com/RiverRegionBoom BOOM! The River Regions 50+ Lifestage Magazine is published monthly by River Region Publications, 6398 Eastwood Glen Pl., Montgomery, AL 36117. The phone number is 334.324.3472. Copyright 2016 by River Region Publications. No part of this publication can be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Opinions expressed in BOOM! The River Regions 50+ Lifestage Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
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Publisher’s Letter
Irreplaceable The mission of BOOM! is to serve the folks of the River Region age 50 plus with information and ideas to inspire new experiences, better quality of life and new beginnings.
Publisher/Editor
Jim Watson, 334.324.3472
How many examples have you seen? One of the things about aging is we’ve been on life’s journey more than most people so if we’ve paid some attention to what goes on around us we have noticed the huge role moms have in our lives. I first began to realize the importance of every mom when I launched Montgomery Parents magazine more than twenty years ago. Many of the moms who “grew up” reading Montgomery Parents had similar interests for their children but each one of them had a unique role in their child’s life. They were nurturing, scolding, encouraging, disparaging, empathetic, discouraged, distraught, optimistic... everyday could bring a different response to the child they were responsible for and loved more than anything, unconditionally.
jim@riverregionboom.com
Associate Editor Kelly Watson
kelly@riverregionboom.com
Contributing Writers Sandi Aplin
I have been married to two of the best moms I ever knew. They both had two sons and loved them unconditionally, which is a challenge when it comes to “boys” sometimes. But as we celebrate Mother’s Day, those “boys” are missing their moms and for so many reasons they are irreplaceable. Some of their fondest memories and mine are being my mom’s son. We made her proud, she made us proud. She was the best listener, when I finally wanted to talk. She was my best advocate and all my friends knew it. Thanks to our moms who will forever be part of the rest of our lives, my memories are as sweet as ever.
Tracy Bhalla Greg Budell
In this month’s issue of BOOM! we have brought you both a mom and an author who “birthed” her first children’s book in the last few months. Her name is Margaret Lowder and she is the author of Amos Likes to Jump, a book written and illustrated about her very special dog Amos. What’s interesting to me about Margaret is her ambition in starting The Amos Book Co. at an age when many of us have exhausted our ambition. I’m sure many of you will admire Margaret’s can do spirit and perhaps find inspiration for your own lives. I think you’ll enjoy getting to know Margaret and Amos this month!
Sammy Caiola Lisa Copeland Erica Curless Randy Furst Casey Gonzalez Christal Hayes Margaret Lowder Brandt McDonald Leigh Anne Richards Nancy Stein Wina Sturgeon Raley L. Wiggins Kathy Witt
As usual, we have some great columns from our community of writers including Greg Budell’s inspirational words from his mom that got him started on the right path. Naturally, Leigh Anne Richards brings more insightful information on the value of exercise...for your BRAIN. How can anyone resist Leigh Anne’s encouragement? Brandt McDonald shares about a friend’s inheritance dilemma and a common sense solution. We also have features about the latest travel goods available for your next trip, how horses are providing comfort to dementia patients and their caregivers as well as a 101-year-old man who learned the secret of good health while tending his garden. Of course there’s more, but I’m out of space. Enjoy!
Cover Photography Kim Bethea Total Image Portraits www.totalimage.com 334.261.2080
Please share your thoughts with me through email or text, you know I love to listen! Also give us a like on Facebook/RiverRegionBoom. Finally, if you haven’t read the Digital & Interactive BOOM! online get a free subscription at RiverRegionBoom.com and we’ll send you one to test run. We Love You Moms!!
Jim
Advertising
Jim Watson, 334.324.3472 jim@riverregionboom.com
jim@riverregionboom.com 334.324.3472 cell/text
Design & Layout Lake House Graphics
Distribution
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Printing Publications Press, Montgomery, AL 334.244.0436 publicationspress.com
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Biking, hiking and jogging trail opens at Montgomery’s Lagoon Park A public private partnership resulted in the creation of Lagoon Park Trail to provide visitors a memorable experience in Alabama’s outdoors. The trail weaves through 176 acres of Lagoon Park’s open space, which encompasses large sections of mature forest, creek-side areas, meadows and wetland. Organizers anticipate holding festivals, events and competitions at the trail in the future. The new trail will offer residents and visitors the chance to explore central Alabama’s outdoors via five miles of cycling, hiking and recreational amenities thanks to the Friends of the Lagoon Park Trail, City of Montgomery, Montgomery County, Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, the Air Command and Staff College and Officer Training School at Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base, the Montgomery Bicycle Club and local business leaders. “This trail is the epitome of what patience, cooperation and partnerships bring to our community,” Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange said. “We thank everyone involved, but we are especially grateful to Ed Grimes and Councilman Bollinger for providing the vision and then leading the charge to bring that vision into fruition. Today marks only the beginning to what’s in store for the Lagoon Park Trail.” “We didn’t have a use for this acreage, but now we have what’s become almost a destination trail thanks to the more than 6,000 hours of volunteer work,” Montgomery City Councilman Richard Bollinger said. “It does take money, but it also takes the efforts and dedication of all of our volunteers.” In 2011 a group of local businesspeople and interested citizens saw an opportunity for an underutilized area adjacent to an existing city golf course. Today the group is the Friends of the Lagoon Park Trail and is working to assist the city in the development of the trail. Construction has begun on the pedestrian and biking trail loop and single-track nature trail. Through a partnership with the city and an ADECA Grant ($100,000) construction is underway, but without private business partnerships the trail cannot be completed in a timely manner. “They talk about it takes a village to raise a child, well it takes a big large group to build a park,” Lagoon Park Trail Committee Executive Director Ed Grimes said. “I may have had the vision but this group did all of the work. It’s been a long four years, but it’s not over yet – we see this area becoming the Central Park of the River Region.” For more information on how you can help, visit lagoonparktrail.com.
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May is Better Hearing Month.
Have You Had an Annual Hearing Test?
All of us know someone who may be hearing impaired—during Better Hearing Month is a great time to educate your friends and family members about how important it is to diagnose and treat a hearing loss. You can help by encouraging them to take the first step toward a fuller, happier lifestyle by making an appointment for a hearing screening. Just as eye exams are a part of your routine health checks, it’s a good idea to get annual hearing tests, too. Did you know: • Hearing loss is a natural part of the aging process and is sometimes so gradual you don’t notice it until it’s too late. An annual test will give you a good head start towards getting the care you need. • Your hearing changes as you age.
By testing your hearing annually, your hearing professional can detect and measure those changes, and counsel you on the prevention methods or hearing solutions that are specific for your loss.
Heal thy Hearing By Casey Gonzalez, Au.D., CCC-A, FAAA Montgomery Hearing Services
• The majority of general practitioners don’t screen for hearing loss—even if you have routine physical exams, chances are your hearing wasn’t given the attention it deserves. • Licensed audiologists have the experience and state-of-the-art equipment needed to inspect your ear canal, accurately measure your hearing loss, assess your unique needs, and prescribe a solution that takes all this important and personalized information into account.
Casey Gonzalez received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Disorders from Louisiana State University, and earned her Doctorate of Audiology degree from Louisiana State University Health Science Center. Casey holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech and Hearing Association and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology.
Free Hearing Screenings for All of May
May is Better Hearing Month, making it the ideal time to schedule your annual hearing test with our audiologists at Montgomery Hearing Services. To arrange for your COMPLIMENTARY hearing screening and consultation, plus a demo of today’s latest hearing technology,
Call (334) 239-0678.
May is Better Hearing Month... Celebrate your hearing health with us! Call us for our specials, including a FREE hearing screening during the month of May.
(334) 239-0678 1758 Park Place, Suite 101 • Montgomery, AL 36106 MontgomeryHearingServices.com © 2016 SMPN. All Rights Reserved. 4/16 44720 -16
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Brain Power – It will make you want to workout We all know that exercise is good for the body. It helps in preventing metabolic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, some cancers and also aid in helping with stress and depression. Recently new evidence is finding all the favorable effects of exercise and brain function. A few months back I wrote an article about exercise and the brain but even more research is emerging that I would like to share. One of the most exciting aspects of new and recent research is that regular exercise actually increases the size of our brains. This is so important because, as humans, we start to lose brain tissue after 30. Aerobic exercise has been shown to not only slow the loss of brain mass but reverse it by growing new brain tissue and improving the functioning of existing neurons. How does this happen? It has been suggested that exercise triggers neurogenesis- the creation of new neurons. These neurons are created in the hippocampus- the part of the brain that controls learning and memory. Regular exercise seems to trigger the expression of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) gene
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which creates a protein that stimulates growth of new brain cells. Hillman, Erikson and Kramer (2008) state that the hippocampus cell proliferation is the most consistently observed effect from exercise and can occur at all ages.
Kramer, Erickson, and Colcombe (2006) explain the largest positive effects observed from exercise on cognition are in the areas referred to as “executive central command”. This includes memory, planning, scheduling, multitasking and dealing with things such as doubt and uncertainty. These are often areas that substantially decline with age.
Fitness over Fifty by Leigh Anne Richards
Exercise increases the number of dendrite connections between neurons, improving the ability to store and process information. A study in 2006 compared the brain volume of subjects who performed regular aerobic exercise (walking) to those who performed only exercises such as stretching. The aerobic exercise group showed significant increases in brain volume. Most of this increase in brain volume was found in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain- those are the areas most involved with memory and learning. What cognitive processes are optimally affected by exercise? Researchers,
Most research regarding the brain and exercise has been done with cardiovascular exercise. However, Kramer, et al, propose that programs combining aerobic exercise, resistance training and flexibility are quite effective for cognitive improvement. The researchers hypothesize that the unique differences in flexibility, strength training and cardiovascular exercise may encourage a broad range of neural and chemical adaptations in the brain. We have all heard of the “runners high” effect with endurance exercisers. Presently Kramer, et al, find that other neurotransmitters have been shown to be increased from exercise and appear to increase the synapse communication capacity in the brain. We know aerobic exercise induces the formation of
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Tiffany Higginbotham, licensed physical therapist and owner of Body Logic Physical Therapy, is doing a lot
new blood vessels in the brain during childhood and adulthood, improving brain circulation, (for oxygen and nutrient delivery), function and health
next month’s column. The findings are quite interesting. The most recent research impressively shows that being physically active has multiple positive effects on brain function from the young, to adolescents to older adults. A new buzz phrase is now used to promote the benefits of exercise- “neuroprotective”. Exercise not only is great for the heart but for the brain and the mind!! Doesn’t this make you want to work out?
There is a tremendous amount of research presently going on with children and exercise with one of the most frequently diagnosed childhood psychological disorders, attention deficit disorder (ADHD). Dr Bucci and his team at Dartmouth’s Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, are researching exercise as an alternative to all the drugs that are being administered to children to treat ADHD. Bucci states “ The implication is that exercising during development, as your brain is growing, is changing the brain in concert with normal developmental changes, resulting in your having more permanent wiring of the brain in support of things like learning and memory. It seems important to exercise early in life.”
of research with Dr. Erin Reilly (AUM professor) on how exercise can affect the brain in children diagnosed with ADHD and other childhood behavioral diagnoses. She conducts a class called Brain Pump for children that is ongoing. In my next month’s article Tiffany will be my guest writer about this and what she and Dr. Reilly are finding. If you have grandchildren, you do not want to miss
*” How Exercise Affects the Brain”www.healthguidance.org “Exercise and The Brain: It will make you want to work out”, Len Kravitz, Ph.D “Exercise Affects the Brain” Pamela Rattue- medicalnewstoday.com 2012 Leigh Anne Richards, MEd, Certified Personal Trainer, Group Exercise Instructor, General Manager- MetroFitness. For any questions or comments, contact Leigh Anne at LAMetrofit@aol.com
The Side by Side Singers are dedicated to sharing music to keep our minds strong. Music can improve our mood and boost cognitive skills. We invite those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia and their care-partners to join us for 8-week sessions each Tuesday, 1:00-2:00 pm at First United Methodist Church in Montgomery. The music we sing ranges from Sinatra to Elvis. photo by Mickey Welsh/Montgomery Advertiser
SIDEbySIDE singers singers
Please contact Jack Horner at ivortickle@aol.com or Laura Selby at 834-8990 for more information.
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NO FEE, PLEASE JOIN THE FELLOWSHIP!
First United METHODIST CHURCH
2416 W. Cloverdale Park Montgomery, AL 36106 334.834.8990 www.fumcmontgomery.org
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“Let’s get it Right” Understanding financial markets has become more about staring through a looking glass and reading the tea leaves of scribble and scrabble from every major central bank in the world. It’s important to understand what is happening and why it is happening. Your entire retirement plan greatly depends on it like never before. When it comes to managing our client’s investment assets, our motto is “Let’s get it Right!” Moving through the second quarter presents itself with a myriad of challenges. First quarter earnings were beset by poor economic conditions around the world. When the U.S. Federal Reserve proclaimed that higher short term rates were coming in 2016, the S&P 500 promptly dropped by 15% right out of the gate in January. The dollar was screaming higher and running through the commodities markets like a wrecking ball. I can only imagine the conversation that Mario Draghi had with Janet Yellen in February. It probably went something like this, “Janet, you are single handedly destroying my banks. You must stop this talk of higher rates immediately and walk/talk the dollar back down. If you don’t our financial system in Europe will collapse.” By the time March rolled around, Janet Yellen was on an all-out campaign to do just that. She announced at the March FOMC meeting that “maybe” there would be two more rate hikes this year. A week later, while speaking at the New York Economic Foundation, she sounded an even more dovish tone. By the time her speech was over, most economists were wondering whether we would even see one rate hike this year. The result of her rhetoric placed a floor in the stock market. As it digested her newly found tone, in only a matter of weeks the S&P 500 was back up to its all-time highs. This is the world we live in – markets controlled by central bankers. Navigating the twists and turns of the global financial markets requires an in-depth understating of what’s really going on. Fundamentals are important for sure. But, looking into the minds of the four or five academic, monetary policy wonks is vastly more important. In my business, we call them the “Central Bankers.” And these are
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the people who are running the show. There is no question in my mind that the United States Federal Reserve is “boxed in” and can’t find its way out of their zero rate policy without inflicting significant damage to something or somewhere in the world. Given the complexities of the new global economy, there are just simply too many negative feedback loops to the US economy. A rate hike here or there causes financial carnage in other parts of the world that ultimately finds with its way back to the Brandt McDonald shores of the U.S. In the meantime, every day that goes by the effective “zero rate policy” continues to encourage reckless risk taking, and displaces capital in an unhealthy way. Simply put, capital is finding its way into financial instruments unnaturally.
Financial Thoughts
At McDonald & Hagen Wealth Management, we spend countless hours poring through economic research so that we can properly advise our clients with investment allocation. Getting it right is more important now than ever before. Before a single investment is recommended into a risk-based investment, we want to find “lowhanging fruit” in our client’s balance sheet. Through proper balance sheet management, the best investments are right under your nose. A change or two here or there can result in tremendous long-term financial health. Recently, a dear friend and client came to see me. His mother had passed away and he stood to inherit some money. He asked me what to invest it in and I said that I would prefer to start with the planning process before we got into any investment advice. As we sat and discussed his personal situation it became apparent to me that there were multiple car loans and a 401K loan that needed to be paid off first. By the time all was said and done, we had agreed to use roughly 75% of his
inheritance to pay off multiple debts first. We increased his emergency reserves in the bank, worked toward improving his monthly discretionary income by $1500 per month, and increased his 401k contribution by $1000 per month. I looked him in the eye and said “you’re in your fifties and have ten more years to work, LET’S GET IT RIGHT!” he leaned back, laughed and said, “you know this is not the advice I was expecting, but yes, Let’s get it right!” And you know what? By investing in his own balance sheet, he took control of his pathway to retirement and potentially reduced the risk of policy decisions made by central bankers around the world. It all starts with a good plan first and letting the plan steer us in a direction which will work toward obtaining the greatest benefit to him and his family. For the month of May, make a commitment to get it right. Whether using our firm or another, get a solid plan in place. Don’t leave your financial outcomes to chance and by all means don’t leave it in the hands of the “Central Banks.” Know what you own and why you own it. As I always say, until next time, remember to never run with the herd, always be thankful, and look to the future with anticipation of what’s yet to come. Brandt McDonald, Managing Partner McDonald & Hagen Wealth Management LPL Branch Manager MBCapitalWealth.com Direct comments and questions to bailey.worrell@lpl.com or 334.387.0094 Securities offered through LPL Financial Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through McDonald & Hagen Wealth Management, a Registered Investment Advisor. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Investing involves risk including loss of principal. No strategy assures success or protects against loss. The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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This & tHAT Volunteers of the Year
Hundreds gathered at Montgomery’s Trinity Presbyterian Church for the 2016 Volunteer of the Awards to honor volunteers for their incredible gifts of service and ongoing efforts to improve the lives of others. The annual event is held during National Volunteer Week which focuses attention on volunteers and their impact on their communities. Co-sponsored by the Junior League of Montgomery, HandsOn River Region initiated the ceremony 42 years ago after its first year in operation as a way to publicly recognize the outstanding service provided by community volunteers. Dr. Tommie “Tonea” Stewart, actress and Dean of the College of Visual & Performing Arts at ASU, was keynote speaker, and WSFA’s John O’Connor served as Master of Ceremonies. Nominated by Montgomery Clean City Commission, Anne Bowman Upchurch was the recipient of the 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award. Mrs. Upchurch is a stalwart volunteer who has L-R: Ken Upchurch, Anne Upchurch & Susan Carmichael (MCCC Director) served the Montgomery Housing Authority, Montgomery Area Food Bank, Neighbors in Christ, Brantwood Children’s Home, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts and the Alabama Math and Sciences School Board. As Mayor Todd Strange states, “Montgomery is a cleaner, greener city due to her tireless efforts.” Loveless Johnson, Jr. received the Senior Volunteer of the Year Award for his commitment to and involvement with the Volunteer in Police Service. Joyce Loyd-Davis, City of Millbrook Councilman, who serves through the Junior League and United Way as well as her own service work was named Loveless Johnson, Jr. Adult Volunteer of the Year. Laura Grace Henry who encourages youth service and founded the 1-41 Youth Partnership Group was named Youth Volunteer of the Year. Raising Cane Volunteers who do everything from delivering food to providing transportation for the elderly clients of Catholic Social Services received the Adult Group award. 1-4-1 Youth Partnership composed of children in grades 3 through 8 who are learning to engage in the community received the Youth Group Award. You can become a volunteer by contacting handsonriverregion.org
Wetumpka Depot Players Present “I Hate Hamlet” The Wetumpka Depot Players are thrusting into spring with the second show of their 36th season. Audiences are bound to love I Hate Hamlet, Paul Rudnick’s award wining comedy. Opening May 12, as the play promises thrills, chills, and laugh-out-loud entertainment. “What a fun play,” said director Tom Salter. “ And what a wonderful cast. There is a ghost…one of the theatre’s most famous actors…a sword fight…and guys in tights! There’s something for everyone in this very funny play.” The show features Stephen Dubberley as Barrymore and Clint Evans as Andrew Rally. Rounding out the cast are Janie Alred, Elizabeth Bowles, Lee Bridges and Kristy Meanor. The fight choreography by Parke Fech is a combination of swashbuckling duel infused with hilarious comedy. The play will be performed the following dates: May 12-14, 19-21, 26-28 7:30pm and May 22 at 2pm. Tickets are just $12 in advance and $15 at the door and online. Box office hours are Wednesday-Friday 9am-3pm or tickets may be reserved by calling the Depot at 334.868.1440 or by visiting the theatre’s website at wetumpkadepot.com Wetumpka Depot Players “I Hate Hamlet”
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Southern Writers’ Project Weekend Experience the diverse, varied heritage of the South and take a look at who we are today during the Southern Writers’ Project Festival of New Plays, an event that gives modern-day storytellers a chance to develop their stories by working with actors, directors, dramaturgs and an audience. Presented by the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, the program culminates each year with a lively three-day weekend with an irresistible menu of stimulating, never-before-seen theatre, delicious food, Southern hospitality and opportunities for the audience and professionals to mix and mingle. The Festival of New Plays Weekend is May 6-8, 2016. For more info and tickets visit southernwritersproject.net
Southern Living Inspired Home Opens May 14 Tour the Southern Living Inspired Home 2016 at Hampstead at our Grand Opening Event on Saturday, May 14th! Experience the best in architecture, interior design, garden design, and lifestyle at this gorgeous show house event. All tour proceeds benefit The Montgomery Humane Society and the Montgomery Area Food Bank. The 6 week show house tour kicks off with the Southern Living Inspired Home Grand Opening Event on May 14th from 11am 4pm. This special Saturday includes Summer Entertaining Demos by the Southern Living Team, as well as Cooking and Cocktail Demos by guest chefs and mixologists. Tickets for the Southern Living Inspired Home tour are on sale now at eventbrite.com. The Inspired Home tour continues every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through May and June 2016. For more info visit, hampsteadliving.com
Get Your Affairs in Order, FREE Estate Planning and Asset Protection Workshop Wednesday, May 25: Hosted by Red Oak Legal, PC: 1:30 - 3:30 pm at the Archibald Senior Center (MACOA) in Montgomery. This educational workshop presented by local attorney Raley L. Wiggins covers wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance directives, living wills, probate administration, protecting assets from creditors, bankruptcy, divorce and remarriage, nursing homes, long-term care and Medicaid qualification. Registration is required. Call 334.625.6774 today to reserve your seat or register online at www.redoaklegalpc.com.
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Great Strides for Cystic Fibrosis at Hampstead Tipping Point Great Strides is the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s largest national fundraising event. Each year, more than 125,000 Someone’s people participate in hundreds of walks across the country to raise funds for cystic fibrosis research and drug Grandchild Needs development. Great Strides continues to gain momentum, Your Support as do our research efforts and the progress we’ve made in the search for a cure. The CF Foundation has raised and invested hundreds of millions of dollars to support the development of new CF drugs and therapies. But the lives of people with this disease are still cut far too short. We need the public’s continued support to fulfill our mission of finding a cure and improving the quality of life of those with the disease. This year’s Great Strides Event will be held at Hampstead Tipping Point on Saturday, May 21st beginning at 9am. Form a team, join a team, and serve those in the fight for the cure of Cystic Fibrosis. Get involved at fightcf.cff.org
Making Montgomery a Bike-Friendly City: Fun, Fitness, and Economic Impact May is National Bike Month and the Montgomery Bicycle Club is busy making Montgomery a “Bike-Friendly City.” Join us Wednesday, May 18, at Leadership Montgomery’s Power Lunch (formerly Lunch with Leaders) and learn about fun cycling events for all ages and abilities, volunteer opportunities, and the economic impact bicycle tourism has on Montgomery ($850,000 in 2015). Our speaker will be Jeff Feet, President of the Montgomery Bicycle Club and Vice President of the Alabama Bicycle Coalition (AlaBike). Leadership Montgomery’s Power Lunch is informal and open to the public. This event will be held on Wednesday, May 18 at 12:00 noon at the MACOA Archibald Center, 115 East Jefferson Street, Montgomery, Al 36104. Lunch is $10. Please make your reservations at leadershipmontgomery.wildapricot.org/event. For more information please call 334.262.2261 or email info@leadershipmontgomery.org. May is Bike Month one-day events: May 2: Bike Rodeo for Valiant Cross Academy; May 4: Bike to School Day (walkbiketoschool.org); May 5 & 6: Ladies Night at the Bike Shops! 6-8pm (May 5—Bell Road Cycle, Nutrition and Training, May 6—Montgomery Multisport); May 8: Cyclofemme (cyclofemme.com); May 13: Ride for Reading Montgomery Delivery: (RIDEFORREADING.com); May 18: Ride of Silence-7pm (rain date is May 21 @10am) rideofsilence.org; May 20: Bike to Work Day (bikeleague.org); May 21: Freedom Rides Bike Ride (freedomridesmuseum.org). Weekly events: May 1-14: #Coffeeneuring Challenge!; May 16-20: #BikeToWork Week! May 22-31: Restaurant Week #BikeToEat!;; May 17, 19 & 21: *League of American Bicyclists Traffic Skills 101: 3 day Course - May 17&19: 6-9pm and 21st 8am-1pm. All Month: #LeftTheCarAtHome Challenge!
Fido Fest @ The Shoppes at EastChase The Shoppes at EastChase Fido Fest is Montgomery’s furriest addition to the festival season and promises to be the Ulti-Mutt day out for people and their dogs! Come out and support Fido Fest which benefits the Montgomery Humane Society and the neediest animals they help! The Montgomery Humane Society is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that is committed to improving the lives of dogs in need by providing foster homes, medical care, and matching them with their forever friends through adoption initiatives. Fido Fest will include a wide array of vendors, doggy activities, great food from local food trucks, k9 splash zone and much more! The live music lineup will include Federal Expression, Blue Yonder, the Good Doctor, John Bull and Clinton Babers. There is something for the whole family, two legged and four legged alike! You don’t want to miss it. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased on eventbrite.com . For more info visit theshoppesateastchase.com
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Herb Day “Some Like it Hot! “ Old Alabama Town Herb Society Presents Herb Day “Some Like it Hot! “ Saturday, May 7, 8 am until 3 pm at the Old Alabama Town Complex - Living Block, 301 Columbus St, Montgomery, AL 36104. Lectures/Demonstrations: “From South America to South of the Mason Dixon, Peppers in Culinary History”, Jessi Norwood, Hot Damn Jelly Company, “You’re Getting Warmer! Naturally Hot Herbal Medicine “, Debbie Boutelier Past President The Herb Society of America, “Growing and Using Turmeric - The Spice of Life”, Tia Gonzalez curator of the Auburn Medicinal Gardens. Children’s Activities 10:00 am - 1:00 pm, making, planting and coloring cool herbal stuff. Student Herbal Art Display in Grange Hall. Music in the Gardens. Vendors - Garden Art, Herb Plants, Expert Gardeners, Entertainment, Food Available for Purchase, ADMISSION FREE! For more info visit oathsblog.com, oathsblog@gmail.com or Facebook: Old Alabama Town Herb Society. Call 334.303.0187.
Run for a Mom Agape of Central Alabama will hold its 6th annual Run for a Mom on Saturday, May 7th. Run or walk in this year’s certified 5K or Fun Run to honor your mom, birth mom, adoptive mom, or special lady in your life and to support crisis pregnancy, adoption, and foster care throughout Alabama. The race begins at 7:30 AM at Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 3800 Vaughn Road in Montgomery. A great race for all ages with lots of food and fun at the end of the course! To register, volunteer, or learn more, go to runforamom.org.
Sidney Lanier 50th HS Reunion Coming May 13-14
The committee welcomes any classmates to contact them at Facebook: 50th Reunion/Lanier Class of 66 or mickey.griffin@aronov.com
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Mint Juleps, Bourbon, Horses and Hats, Hats, Hats, Hats... Get ready for horses, hats, and bourbon! Join Hospice of Montgomery as they bring Millionaire’s Row with a casino twist to the River Region. The Kentucky Derby Annual Benefit will take place Saturday, May 7th from 3:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., at Montgomery Country Club. Dress in your “Derby” best, and take part in the post-position horse draw, exclusive silent auction, “funny money” casino tables, “best dressed couple” and “best hat” contests, and much more, all culminating with the viewing of the 142nd Run for the Roses! Attendance at the annual benefit supports Hospice of Montgomery, which is the River Region’s ONLY independent, nonprofit hospice care provider. Funds raised through this event help provide medical care for the seriously ill, bereavement and grief counseling for families, as well as caregiver support. Be sure to reserve your tickets today for the most exciting two minutes in racing! $50 General Admission. Sponsorships are also available. Tickets can be purchased at Hospice of Montgomery, 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery, and online at hospiceofmontgomery.org. For more information contact Hospice of Montgomery at 334.279.6677
First Baptist Church: Barnabas Mission for the Unemployed Our Mission is to encourage, support and counsel people in securing a job. We will assist through a process that includes: Prayer, Skill, training, and work experience assessment for job qualification, Resume assistances, Opportunity analysis, Interview guidance, Finding & building work connections. If you are unemployed or under employed and need a job hunting plan we are here to help. The Barnabas ministry is open to referrals from other churches and community. Call any of our job counselors to secure an appointment. Contacts for Barnabas Ministry: John Fleming, 334.462.5241; Basil Manly, 334.834.8461 and Charles Close, 334.868.3703
What is Celibacy?
Celibacy can be a choice in life, or a condition imposed by circumstances. While attending a Marriage Weekend, Frank and his wife Ann listened to the instructor declare, It is essential that husbands and wives know the things that are important to each other. He then addressed the men. Can you name and describe your wife’s favorite flower? Frank leaned over, touched Ann’s arm gently, and whispered, Gold Medal-All-Purpose, Isn’t it? And thus began Frank’s life of celibacy.
Jere Beasley Named to Elite Lawdragon 500 list Jere L. Beasley, Principal & Founder of Beasley, Allen, Crow, Methvin, Portis & Miles, P.C., has been selected as one of the 2016 Lawdragon 500 Leading Lawyers in America. This year marks the fourth time he has been named to this prestigious list. Recipients of this honor are determined by a combination of editorial research by Lawdragon staff, submissions from law firms and an online nomination form. Jere Beasley, the senior member of Beasley Allen, has practiced law as an advocate for victims of wrongdoing since 1962. During his career, he has tried hundreds of cases. Beasley’s numerous courtroom victories include landmark cases that have made a positive impact upon our society. The driving force behind Beasley’s success has been his intense commitment to his clients. He is, without a doubt, one of the leading trial lawyers in the entire country and a leading advocate for those who have been wronged. He has appeared as a lecturer throughout the country at numerous legal seminars and other events. In addition to his trial practice, Beasley is actively involved in many civic endeavors, such as the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Lions Club and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. In 2006, he was named “Citizen of the Year” by the March of Dimes. He has been personally involved with the agency since the early 1980s. In January 2010, he was selected as the recipient of the Montgomery Sunrise Rotary Club’s Commitment to Service Award, recognizing his dedication to helping others and improving the community and the River Region.
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BOOM! COVER PROFILE
Margaret Lowder, Children’s Book Author This month’s BOOM! Cover Profile is Margaret Lowder, a life long member of the Montgomery community who graduated from Sidney Lanier High School, where she met her future husband, Jimmy Lowder. Margaret has always taken time to support many of the outstanding non-profits in the River Region. One of her special projects is the annual Ranch Roundup at The Bartlett Ranch where the funds raised go to support the work at The Family Sunshine Center to prevent domestic abuse. She and her daughter, Emily, have just completed their third annual roundup with great success. Margaret The Lowder Family, L-R: Emily Wootten, Sam Wootten, Anna Lowder, Harvi Sahota, Katie Lowder, Josh Lowder, Margaret Lowder, Jimmy Lowder is also a published author of with their families. Six grandchildren Jimmy Lowder, when we both attended a children’s book based on her special certainly keep me from slowing down & Sidney Lanier High School. During the friendship with her dog Amos. We met it is such a joy to have everyone close by! time we were at Auburn University we Amos the other day during the photo Anna & her husband, Harvi Sahota, are married & afterwards moved back to shoot for this month’s cover and we the Directors of Design and Development Montgomery where both of our families could see why Margaret was inspired of Hampstead, and principals of Mercer lived. Three wonderful children arrived by to write a book about him, he’s lovable Home and Matter. Emily is the Director the time I was thirty (Anna, Emily, & Josh) and fun! Margaret shared some of her of our Family Foundation & her husband, and now all three live in Montgomery life’s story with us, including Amos, and Sam Wootten, is the co-owner we think you’ll enjoy & proprietor of Hampstead’s getting to know them neighborhood restaurant, The as much as we did. Tipping Point. Our son, Josh, is President of Colonial Commercial BOOM!: Please give Realty & his wife, Katie, is the owner us a brief biography, of Pure Barre’s two Montgomery i.e. where you’re locations. As one can tell, our family from, education, what is firmly rooted in Montgomery & brought you to the believes in working to make it an Montgomery area, did even better place to live. you raise your family here, schools, married, family, etc.?
Margaret: I was born Margaret and Jimmy Lowder have been married 45 years in Montgomery, Alabama and met my future husband,
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BOOM!: You published your first children’s book last year called Amos Likes to Jump and it’s about your very special dog, Amos. Would you share how you and Amos became
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
a team? Also, how did the book writing journey begin? What were some of the challenges along the way?
stretched her precise medical style to a fun whimsical one that was a perfect match for Amos! Her use of color is very rich & children seem to be drawn to its energy. “Amos Likes to Jump” recently won its first award being named to the #6 spot on the Gittle List of top 10 children’s books for 2015!
be bigger or more capable than he was --- very akin to Walter Mitty’s imagined heroics. The book is filled with over the top behavior that appeals to our young readers.
Margaret: FiveBOOM!: How does writing a children’s year-old Amos is book effect your attitude on aging? our wonderful soft coated Wheaten Margaret: It has definitely kept me busy terrier whose enough that I no longer have the time to antics are always BOOM!: When you read think about my age at all. Amos & I have entertaining to Amos Likes to Jump to a made around 25 appearances in 4 states say the least. room full of children, does in one year! Life is certainly full right now Through the years Amos join you? How do the & I hope it stays that way. That actually we have had 4 children react to Amos and means, anyone reading this article should cats, 9 dogs, 5 his story? rush out & buy a book right now for the hamsters, 3 birds, grandchildren in your life so I can keep & numerous fish, Margaret: Amos enjoys writing about Amos! yet Amos tops appearing them all! With BOOM!: his sweet nature, Katie & Josh Lowder with Jack & baby Woods in his Super Hero cape at Favorite love of jumping, & book signings, schools & vacation exuberant outlook on life, Amos endears library readings, & special spot? Any himself to all he meets. events. The children adore travel dreams Amos & line up at the planned for I have always enjoyed writing rhyming end of each reading to the future? verse since grade school, but watching pat him on the head. (He Amos daily made me realize that if I found usually does something Margaret: him so entertaining then perhaps others unexpected that surprises Our family would as well. So about 2 ½ years ago us all)! They love to ask all loves to I jotted down some lines that evolved sorts of spend time into the first book, Finn, Anna, Harvi, & Harland Sahota in Highlands, “Amos Likes to questions & sing the NC & Rosemary Beach, FL. Both are Jump”. I discovered “Amos song” as loud as wonderful places to make memories with along the way to possible. our children & grandchildren! write down all my ideas, let them BOOM!: You’ve BOOM!: What are you most passionate steep for a while, & described Amos as the about? then revisit. It was Walter Mitty of dogs, then clear what can you explain what Margaret: I have attended Trinity did not work at that means? Presbyterian Church since I was 5 years all & what should old & it was there that I became a be developed Margaret: I can look follower of Christ. I cannot imagine a further. The biggest at Amos & see his more nurturing & Bible centered Church challenge was wheels turning as he staff & family anywhere! finding the perfect contemplates his next illustrator to bring Emily, Henry, Sam, & Miriam Wootten move! Adventure should BOOM!: How do you like to relax and the book to life & I be his middle name wind down? found the answer since he is forever getting into a situation in Ellen Davis of Precision Medical Media. where he absurdly thought himself to Margaret: I think the most relaxing time She is a medical illustrator full time but
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BOOM!: As you’ve aged, how have your of the hard work priorities changed? of our Chamber of Commerce & our Margaret: I hope that I see the needs Mayor & City Council of others more clearly. I do know that to name just a few, getting older has a way Montgomery of making you realize is now a that people are more destination. important than things, Whether to see that good health is a outstanding ASF blessing to enjoy, & that performances, minor problems are just enjoy the Margaret’s First Children’s Book that – minor! Montgomery BOOM!: As a busy Museum of Fine Arts, visit our entrepreneur, do you have time to be BOOM!: Give us three amazing Archives building or tour involved in community, civic or other words that describe the Civil Rights Museum we have activities? Illustrator, Ellen Davis you? so much to offer. The Montgomery Symphony & Clef Works are both Margaret: My daughter, Emily Wootten, Margaret: My children said I was phenomenal as well as the performances & I have been active in starting The Ranch energetic, tenacious, & loyal ----- which that are so Roundup oddly enough are the characteristics of beautifully event at Terriers ...No wonder Amos & I have choreographed The Bartlett such a special bond! by the Alabama Ranch for Dance Theatre. the Family BOOM!: Do you have any hobbies or And of course, Sunshine other activities that grab your attention? a night at a Center. Biscuits game Our goal Margaret: I definitely enjoy landscaping with dazzling is to raise & discovering unfamiliar plants here & fireworks is funds for there, as well as cooking for my family. the perfect this great family outing! organization Margaret’s Famous Dog, Amos BOOM!: Many Boomers are experiencing Old Cloverdale that helps a renewed sense of purpose, new goals, has seen a revitalization as well, with prevent domestic abuse & we just new careers…How would you describe new shops & restaurants popping up finished the third Round up in April. this sense of renewal in your life? Any along with the addition of The Cloverdale advice for the rest of us seeking renewal? Playhouse and the recently updated Capri I also enjoy working with the Theatre. East Montgomery is experiencing Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Having Margaret: The huge growth served as a past board president, I can Amos series from businesses attest to its incredible art collections, has given me to new talented staff, & beautiful facility. something fun neighborhoods However, a good amount of my time is to do with the and has a lot to now occupied with all things Amos! extra time many offer. I love living of us experience in Hampstead BOOM!: What is it about living in the at this stage of because of its Montgomery/River Region area that you life. Now is the friendliness, like? perfect season to walkability, recognize what families young Margaret: So much has happened in our you really enjoy & old, & lots of Capital City in the last 10 years that has doing & then act children & dogs propelled Montgomery forward. Through on it. The rewards for Amos to the ideas of many visionaries, downtown Margaret with Grandsons, Harland & Henry, Sharing far outweigh the befriend! has come such a long way & now attracts Amos the Dog in the Classroom challenges. visitors from all over the country. Because of my day is when Amos & I go for his daily walk around the neighborhood. Besides seeing so many wonderful neighbors & their children, I love seeing Amos excitedly greeting all his four legged friends!
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BOOM!: Does Amos ever ask to go to the Bark Park, wearing his cape, to impress his friends? Margaret: Amos certainly asks to go to the Bark Park but he likes to go sans cape so he can be just one of the guys! BOOM!: With your first children’s book, Amos Likes to Jump, you started The Amos Book Company. What are some of your future projects involving Amos and his new stardom? Will there be a series of Amos Adventures? Most importantly, where can BOOM! readers purchase Amos Books or stuffed animals?
on TV --- he will watch for hours just waiting to see his new best friends! Hopefully children will pick up on the message that nothing beats real life experiences that occur outside with real friends! You can count on more Amos tales to follow in the years to come, as he never ceases to amaze! Margaret’s Grandchildren hanging out at The Tipping Point
Margaret: Later Please this month we are follow us announcing the Amos & like Amos on his face book stuffed toy dog (cape page: Amos Book Co where & all) to go along with we feature dog treat recipes, the series & later this updates, etc. & purchase our summer our second books on Amazon (prime book “Amos Bounces shipping is available for the Back: A Tale of Too board book & the activity Much TV “will be book) or better yet locally ! released. Illustrator, Ellen Davis, is finishing Visit our website: up her beautiful amosthedog.com to check Amos Stuffed Toy drawings & then off to our stock list for a complete the publisher! This book is about Amos’ list of the wonderful local shops that carry real life attraction to all dog appearances our books.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
We want to thank Margaret for sharing her story with us and of course sharing some time with her famous dog Amos. If you have questions or comments for Margaret, visit her website amosthedog.com. And if you have little grandkids put some Amos the Dog in their lives! As always, thanks to Kim Bethea from Total Image Portraits for her professional cover photo of Margaret and Amos (Amos loved Kim a whole bunch), Kim makes taking pictures fun! If you have questions, comments or suggestions about our cover profiles, including nominating someone, please send them to jim@riverregionboom.com
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Beauty Buzz From our blog at RiverRegionFacialPlastics.com
3 Beauty Treatments in 30 Minutes or Less
It can be a real challenge to fit in personal time for beauty treatments. Most people don’t have the time to spend hours at the spa. Fortunately, there are beauty treatments that don’t take up too much of your time — some treatments would only cost you a lunch break.
Facial Peels
As skin ages, you might notice a dull appearance along with a rough texture. Facial peels are one way to revitalize the face. One option is the micropeel, which involves a two-step process that includes dermaplaning and chemical exfoliation. This process helps smooth the skin while removing the dull top layer. What’s left is bright, youthful skin that leaves you feeling rejuvenated.
Laser Hair Removal
Many people experience unwanted hair. Laser hair removal can minimize and eliminate those unwanted patches. The aesthetician uses a medical laser to heat up the hair follicles, which damages the roots of the hair. With multiple treatments, those follicles will no longer grow hair. Treatments are available for all parts of the body, including the face, arms, legs, back, and bikini area. Small treatment areas can be handled over your lunch break, while larger areas may require a longer treatment time.
Botox® Cosmetic
The actual administration of this product to diminish fine lines and wrinkles takes less than 5 minutes! In and out the door for a Botox® Cosmetic treatment can take less than 30 minutes, on average. This is a very popular, simple, no downtime treatment to reduce facial expressions that cause deep wrinkles around the eyes and/or between the eyes and forehead. Our physicians do not excessively treat to give the “frozen” look, but rather a soft lessening of muscle movement to prevent the ability to create facial expressions responsible for the deep wrinkles in those areas.
Seeing ‘50 shades of red’ in your skin? Are you noticing a warm constant glow in the mid-face that doesn’t seem to go away? Does the redness get worse with spicy foods, certain skin care products, or a sip of alcohol? Do you blush easily? You could be developing rosacea. Rosacea is a skin condition that affects more than16 million Americans. Most people don’t even realize that they have rosacea, and it is becoming more widespread as the Baby Boomer generation enters the most susceptible age for rosacea to occur. 3 major signs of rosacea are: • Episodic flushing and blushing • A ruddy complexion due to dilated blood vessels • Acne-like pimples
Often confused as an allergic reaction after using certain skin care products, rosacea can appear as an irritation
however, stand out for helping rosacea as well as slowing down the aging process. If you think you might have rosacea, see your dermatologist. After an accurate diagnosis is made, therapies may include:
in the form of a burning or stinging sensation. Choosing products that are both anti-aging and non-irritating for the middle-aged female rosacea patient can be tricky because most anti-aging products contain alphahydroxy acids and retinoids, which are potentially irritating to rosacea. Products rich in antioxidants,
• Cosmeceuticals such as SkinMedica® Redness Relief Complex • Laser treatments such as IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) • Chemical peels designed to treat adult acne After your visit to your dermatologist, come see our medical aesthetician who has years of experience treating rosacea and leave the ‘50 shades of red’ to your rosy past!
Please contact us via email at Doctors@RiverRegionFacialPlastics.com with your questions or comments!
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Ask Nancy: Caring for Aging Relatives My mom is too difficult to help!
Q: My mother, age 92, who has always had a loving and sweet disposition, has turned into a rude and abusive woman. She shows early signs of dementia, but she is in relatively good health. She won’t leave the house and though she complains about being lonely at night she threatens to call the police if we suggest a nighttime companion. Her behavior is irrational and I don’t know what to do to help her. She refuses to see a geriatric psychiatrist and her physician is concerned that a calming medication could contribute to a fall. Can you give us any advice? _ Michael B., Miami, FL A: This is indeed a very difficult and stressful situation for you but unfortunately, it is not uncommon, according to Dr. Leslie Kernisan, a board-certified geriatrician and a clinical instructor at the University of California, San Francisco, whom I contacted for some expert advice on your situation. Here is what she advised in an email to me; “First, I would find a way to obtain a preliminary medical assessment for dementia possibly handled by his mother’s primary care provider,” Dr. Kernisan wrote. “She’ll be checked for other health problems that might cause personality or thinking changes. It’s possible that the changes her son is observing are not due to dementia, which can be exacerbated by additional problems such as electrolyte imbalances, medication side-effects, untreated pain or even constipation. “I suggest that the son familiarize himself with how dementia is diagnosed and then accompany his mother to the exam prepared with good information regarding her abilities and challenges. Also, bear in mind that HIPAA does not prevent you from contacting her doctor ahead of time and relaying your concerns and your observations. I generally think it’s good to do this in writing, as it can be put in her chart. The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
“If a diagnosis of dementia is confirmed, her son will want that information to be in her medical charts with all of her physicians since it has implications for how to manage the care of any other health problems she has.” Finally, Dr. Kernisan wisely pointed out that a diagnosis would also make it easier for you to get help as a family caregiver with coaching in dementia behavior management and caregiving coping strategies. “Learning better ways to handle your mother’s behaviors can have a big effect on her well being and on yours,” she explained. A diagnosis will also help you plan ahead for when her cognitive abilities and independence are further impeded and she requires more support and oversight. While these situations are always emotionally and financially challenging, I have observed that families who plan ahead tend to use support services more wisely, and as a result, they experience less stress. For help coping with the experience, whether it’s how to get your mom in to see the doctor, how to deal with the doctors, how to cope with your stress, how to manage her outbursts, and how to plan ahead, Dr. Kernisan recommends the following resources.
I Visit online support forums, such as these very active forums at aging care (www.agingcare.com) and Caregiving. com (www.caregiving.com) of people caring for aging parents. I Read a few good books, as it’s hard to learn a lot by skimming web pages. For dementia, the “The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for People Who Have Alzheimer Disease, Related Dementias, and Memory Loss” (Mass Market Paperback) by Nancy L. Mace (Author), Peter V. Rabins (Author)is well respected, as well as “Surviving Alzheimer’s: Practical tips and soul-saving wisdom for caregivers” by Paula Spencer Scott. I also highly recommend visiting Dr. Kernisan’s blog, “Better Health While Aging,” www.betterhealthwhileaging.net, which offers practical ways to improve health and wellbeing in aging. She is a leader in the field of geriatrics and I have found her writing to be instructive. Nancy Stein, Ph.D., is the founder of Seniority Matters (senioritymatters.com), a caregiver advisory and referral service in South Florida for seniors and their families. You can contact her at nancy@senioritymatters.com. (c)2015, Seniority Matters, Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC
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Eating Smart with Tracy Bhalla
Is Sugar Toxic? A recent “60 minutes” documentary proved without a doubt just how toxic sugar is and how prevalent it has become in the majority of diets. The average American consumes 1/3 lb. sugar PER DAY! That’s a whopping 130 lbs a year. As you can see in the documentary (which you can see online), it should be no surprise to anybody that studies clearly relate excess sugar consumption to obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, as well as many more obscure diseases (as you will see below). You might argue that some natural sugars have always been in the human diet, so why is this an issue? Well, yes humans have always eaten small amounts of natural sugars from fruit as part of the ancestral diet, but we’ve never historically been exposed to the massive amounts of added sugars that we see in today’s world of sweetened drinks, candies, cakes, cookies, as well as added sugars in everything from condiments to bread. Especially the massive quantity of sugar exposure from corn syrup! One statement in the documentary that is debatable is that sugar and HFCS (high fructose corn syrup) are “the same”. While they are both terrible for your health and both toxic, there are certainly big differences in how the body processes HFCS vs table sugar or other forms of sugar. In a 2010 Princeton University study, researchers found that rats given water sweetened with HFCS gained significantly more weight than those given water sweetened with plain sugar, despite calorie intake being the same between both groups. Princeton researchers also state: “In addition to causing significant weight gain in lab animals, long-term consumption of high-fructose corn syrup also led to abnormal increases in body fat, especially in the abdomen, and a rise in circulating blood fats called triglycerides”. HFCS consumption is clearly linked to increased heart disease and stroke risk.
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The more I read about statistics like this, the more the food I see on the supermarket shelves just repulsed me. We are being fed food that has an inherent addictive element (sugar!) that will ultimately kill us! It’s been a few years now since I started gradually moving away from certain foods, but I never jumped on the band wagon of say, The Paleo Diet, amongst others. I thought it was just a fad. Now I’m not so sure. I never jumped on the band wagon of switching from butter to margarine either (how could something synthetic be better for you than something natural?) And now, of course, opinion has come full circle and butter is better for you – in moderation! Same with sugar-free and fat-free anything. Why think that replacing something yummy and natural with something not so yummy and synthetic could possibly be better for you? I never understood that concept. And again, now the experts are saying that diet drinks and fat free yoghurts, etc. are in fact much worse for us than the originals ever were. Surprise! Many of the cookbooks I now buy have been written by people who realize (one way or another) that our generation’s diet is killing us and if we don’t change it we face a devastating future for our offspring. One such lady that began with a blog in a desperate attempt to swing her life back to normality, is Deliciously Ella (www. deliciouslyella.com). She “started the blog as a way of dealing with a relatively rare
illness, Postural Tachycardia Syndrome, which (she) was diagnosed with in September 2011. The illness had a pretty devastating effect on (her) life – (she) literally couldn’t walk down the street, slept for 16 hours a day, had never ending heart palpitations, was in chronic pain, had unbearable stomach issues, constant headaches and the list goes on – it was anything but fun! (She) tried healing through conventional medicine for about six months but it had little effect on (her) symptoms and was still bed-ridden 95% of the time…..Overnight (she) took up a whole foods, plantbased diet and gave up all meat, dairy, sugar, wheat, anything processed and all chemicals and additives..” And it worked! Her’s is not the only story. There are many out there. Check out Gillian McKeith of “You are what you eat”, and Dr. Brenda Walding of Www.thePaleosecret.com Both had very scary health issues that were incurable by Western medicine, but cured completely by a complete change in diet. It’s happening to a lot of people all over the world, but the good news is, there is a cure! Cut out the sugar and the sugar-free and fat-free products. Get back to basics and cook from scratch. Know what you are putting in your body. It is a temple, after all. Abuse it and lose it. Your choice. Tracy Bhalla, Independent Consultant with NYR Organics, website: us.nyrorganic.com/shop/ tracybhalla email: nyrbhalla@gmail.com Continuing my obsession with all things organic, I have been working with NYR for two years now, using their skincare products myself for over 25 years! Your skin is the body’s largest organ, it deserves to be well looked after. I am here to answer any questions you may have.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Get Rid of Meaningless Mementos I have a friend approaching 60 whose home is full of mementos. She’s nothing like a hoarder, but every surface, coffee tables, side tables, cabinet tops and counters are all crowded with objects gathered over the duration of her life. I once picked up a little ‘snowball,’ a globe full of liquid that clouded with fake snow when it was shaken. It had had been there as long as I had known her. When I asked where she got it, she just shrugged and said, “Oh, I’ve just had that thing for years.”
But some people disagree with that radical purging-of-things method. Moira Macdonald of the Seattle Times notes in an article that “Professional organizing didn’t start with Kondo. The National Association for Professional Organizers, in existence since 1984, has thousands of members ... “ Macdonald goes on to quote certified professional organizer Sue Ive of “Organize to Optimize,” who says
By Wina Sturgeon
have become like part of the family, such as a stuffed animal that was won long ago at some amusement park, or shelves of books we will probably never read again. Aside from the familial attachment, there’s another aspect to keeping things: We don’t want to toss them out, even to a donation center. We want it to be personal, we want our memento to be ‘adopted’ by a good home. This is where it gets hard, in taking time to think of where you want these non-treasured objects to go.
Books really do sell at donation Obviously, it had no centers such as special meaning to her. It The Salvation was just a thing that sat Army and other around, gathering dust. thrift stores. She probably no longer Books you’ve even noticed it. It was, in enjoyed over the fact, just clutter. And that’s years but may the problem. As we keep never open again getting older, we gather can be donated a plethora of objects, or given to more and more of them. friends, with your Some are souvenirs from personal review. vacations in other states. A stuffed animal Others may be old shoes can be spruced up or a piece of clothing that by gently washing cost so much, it seems it, sewing up The biggest emotional help in getting rid of meaningless mementos is to not think of it as “tidying up,” too expensive to toss or ripped seams, and but as creating space. (Photo courtesy Fotolia/TNS) donate. Another item then giving it to a gathering dust may be a stack of old friend’s child who will love this new toy. “Kondo’s do-it-all-in-one-fell-swoop catalogs or magazines we once put aside approach can burn out some people ... In fact, the biggest emotional help in to look at later, only we never got around it’s kind of daunting.” Macdonald says getting rid of meaningless mementos is to looking at them. There they wait, Ives suggests (decluttering) in a slow but forgotten, just taking up space in their to not think of it as ‘tidying up,’ but as steady progress: one area at a time, and own special little pile. creating space. A clean counter top with keep moving. no distracting figurines or colored bottles Household mementos that grow over scattered on it will spark your creativity Asking yourself if each object in your the years have become such a problem and provide visually peaceful space. home ‘sparks joy’ is a very subjective that they’ve sparked their own genre Wina Sturgeon is an active 55+ based in thing. If every surface in your home is so of best sellers, such as Marie Kondo’s Salt Lake City, who offers news on the crowded that you have to move things “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying science of anti-aging and staying youthful before you can use that space, it might Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering at: adventuresportsweekly.com. She be better to ask a more personal kind of and Organizing”. In it, Kondo advises skates, bikes and lifts weights to stay in question, such as “In five years from now, looking around at each object in your shape. will I be glad that I kept this? Or will it still home (especially clothing in closets), be there taking up space and sparking no (c)2016 Adventure Sports Weekly Visit Adventure Sports Weekly at holding each of those objects, and asking use or emotion in five years?” www.adventuresportsweekly.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. yourself, “Does this item spark joy in me?” Kondo then suggests that if the There are many items we keep only item makes you happy, put it away. If not, because we’ve already kept them for toss or donate it. such a long time. They are objects which The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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Ask an Elder Law Attorney By: Raley L. Wiggins | Attorney at Law | Red Oak Legal, PC
3 Common Estate Planning Mistakes In our practice, we commonly see the same mistakes being made time and again. Sometimes we see the client early enough to correct the mistake before any harm is done, but not always. Read on to learn about three of the most common mistakes, and how to avoid them.
“everything” they may need to address. Instead, you have to specifically state that your agent has the power to handle certain kinds of transactions. That’s why it is important to include expanded powers in your power of attorney, particularly for clients over age 65.
MISTAKE ONE NOT PLANNING FOR DISABILITY
MISTAKE TWO NOT KNOWING HOW YOU OWN YOUR ASSETS
People are living longer than ever before. If you need proof, just look around at the number of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, and similar organizations that care for the ever-growing senior population. The longer we live, the more likely it is that we will deal with a period of disability late in life during which we will need others to help care for us.
I regularly teach an educational workshop on estate planning to members of the public, and one of the topics that tends to get people’s attention is the discussion of how you own your assets. You see, the way your assets are held or titled can have a significant effect upon whether your estate plan “works” the way that you hope it does.
The starting point in disability planning is to be sure that you have, at a minimum, a durable power of attorney and an advance directive in place. Note that not all of these documents are created equal. For example, most advance directives focus on end-of-life scenarios in the event that we are in a coma, or require machines to keep us alive. They often fail to adequately address a more common scenario—one in which we require nursing home or other long-term care for an extended period of time.
Attend Free Workshop
at the Archibald Senior Center (MACOA) in Montgomery. This educational workshop presented by local attorney Raley L. Wiggins covers wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance directives, living wills, probate administration, protecting assets from creditors, bankruptcy, divorce and remarriage, nursing homes, long-term care and Medicaid qualification. Registration is required. Call 334-625-6774 today to reserve your seat or register online at www.redoaklegalpc.com.
Under the new Alabama Uniform Power of Attorney Act (effective January 1, 2012), granting your agent the power to do “everything” you could do yourself, doesn’t actually mean that the agent can handle May 2016 2015
MISTAKE THREE LEAVING ASSETS OUTRIGHT TO THE SPOUSE
This mistake is not true in all cases, but consider the increasingly common second marriage. When each spouse has their own children, this can be a source of hurt feelings when one spouse dies before the other. The children of the deceased spouse often resent step-parent Estate Planning and Asset Protection Workshop their for spending “their” 20: Hosted by Red Oak Legal, PC: 1:30-3:30 pm Wednesday, May 25: inheritance.
While the advance directive deals with health care issues, a durable power of attorney grants a person of your choosing (your agent) the authority to handle your business and financial affairs. Importantly, however, the law is clear that your agent only has the powers which are granted to her in the power of attorney. The problem is that just reading the terms of the POA won’t necessarily give you the complete picture of what powers your agent does or doesn’t have.
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Assume John jointly owns a house with his wife, Jane. He has a 401(k) that names Jane as the death beneficiary, and a life insurance policy that names his son, Billy as the beneficiary. At John’s death, his wife Jane will own the house and get the money in the 401(k), while Billy gets the life insurance money. Even though the will leaves “everything” to Sally, she won’t actually inherit anything at all.
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For example, many kinds of jointly owned property will automatically become the sole property of the surviving joint owner upon the death of the other owner, regardless of what the deceased person’s will says about who gets the property. Similarly, beneficiary designations on life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other accounts will determine who actually gets the money in those accounts after the owner’s death. For an average middle class family, the bulk of their estate’s value will consist of three types of assets—the home, retirement accounts, and life insurance proceeds. Consider John Doe, whose will leaves his entire estate to his favorite niece, Sally.
The better choice is to leave those assets in trust. For example, John and Jane get married. They are both in their 50’s, and each have their own children from prior marriages. John dies first. His will leaves the bulk of his estate to Jane, in trust, to make sure her basic needs are provided for. The terms of the trust, however, prevent Jane from leaving John’s money to her new spouse (if she remarries) or to her own children. Instead, whatever is left will pass to John’s children after her death. In conclusion, I’ll leave you with a question: Do any of these examples sound familiar to you? Raley L. Wiggins Attorney at Law, Red Oak Legal, PC 334-239-3625 | info@redoaklegalpc.com 445 Dexter Avenue, ste 9000, Mont, AL 36104 www.redoaklegalpc.com The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
ARE YOU MAKING A COMMON ESTATE PLANNING MISTAKE? Not planning for disability Not knowing how you own your assets Leaving assets outright to your spouse
Sound Familiar?
We can help.
FREE EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP
Estate Planning, Asset Protection & Medicaid Eligibility
CALL US OR REGISTER ONLINE TODAY!
Join local attorney Raley L. Wiggins to discuss wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance directives, living wills, probate administration, protecting your assets, bankruptcy, divorce & remarriage, nursing homes, long term care and medicaid qualification.
Seats fill up quickly! Reserve your seat today:
(334) 625-6774 redoaklegalpc.com 33
“No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”
Horses Comfort People with early onset dementia, their caregivers
Since Diane’s husband received a dementia diagnosis in early 2014, at age 50, their family of four has been taking things slowly.
By Sammy Caiola
The bouts of memory loss and confusion that characterize the disease have grown more common, pushing him to leave his full-time job as a mechanical engineer, where trying to recall information on command proved too stressful. He now spends his time mountain biking, seeing loved ones and helping around the house.
The person living with dementia gets to see what it feels like to care for another being, and a loved one gets a better understanding of the importance of providing care, Hertel said.
“What we really focus on is now,” said Diane, who requested that her last name and her husband’s first and last names not be used. “It takes the pressure off having to remember things. And with that pressure taken off, he actually does remember things.” That’s a useful lesson for people living with dementia, who must grapple with deteriorating memory, concentration, social behavior and other basic functions in their daily lives. In November, Diane and her husband sought to deepen that concentration on the present by joining a Bay Areabased clinical study assigning them to care for horses. By grooming, walking and petting the animals, the couple learned to tune into the horses’ evolving moods and needs. They also learned the intrinsic value of caring for another, a virtue that people can lose sight of in the day-to-day stress of taking care of someone with a degenerative illness. Not being able to remember things that were once familiar can be frightening, especially for people in their 40s with early onset dementia, said Nancy Schier Anzelmo, a gerontology professor at
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Schier Anzelmo and senior living consultant Paula Hertel helped found the Connected Horse Research Study, a collaboration between Stanford University and the nonprofit group Connected Horse, which was founded to raise money for the study. The goal is to build confidence in people with dementia and improve relationships between them and the loved ones caring for them.
“It’s a nonjudgmental, mutual respect with the horses,” Hertel said. “When care partners learn to break down those dynamics for themselves, they also start to become better care partners.”
California State University, Sacramento. As people lose the ability to recall information or perform certain tasks, they may become depressed and antisocial. “If someone’s on that trajectory, they become more isolated,” Schier Anzelmo said. “They might forget they’re meeting their friends for coffee, and the friends stop calling because they get annoyed. The person living with the disease needs to feel empowered, not that this is a downward trajectory, but that they still have purpose and focus. Maybe that means doing something they never tried before.”
Hertel and Schier Anzelmo, both longtime equestrians and dementia care experts, brought the idea of an equine engagement program to the Stanford Red Barn Leadership Program and raised more than $20,000 in contributions from colleagues, horse enthusiasts and the California Associated Living Association to fund the research. People with early onset dementia usually receive less attention and services than older, more advanced sufferers, experts said. Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, affects one in nine people over age 65. By 2050, the number of people with Alzheimer’s may nearly triple, from 5.2 million to a projected 13.8 million, according to 2016 data from the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org/facts/. “As people are getting diagnosed earlier, they’re still independent,” Hertel said.
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“There’s this period of time where they wonder where they fit in. Their life as they knew it before is shifting, but they don’t want to lose quality of life. This program focuses on the relationship aspect (with caregivers), to help them grow together so they don’t feel so hopeless.” Horses are known for perceiving and mirroring human emotion. Both caregivers and people with dementia must stay calm to earn the horse’s trust and get the horse to respond to commands. By the end of the program, participants are able to walk with a horse, brush it and clean its hooves without resistance, Schier Anzelmo said. A report from the first phase, with 10 participants, found that people were more energized and showed more positive facial expressions by the end of the workshops. Facilitators noted that participants with dementia were also better able to follow instructions and social cues than they were at the start. Just being in a supportive environment makes a huge difference for people with early onset dementia, who may feel
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
socially anxious because they’re trying to cover up memory deficits, Schier Anzelmo said. Diane, whose husband had not worked with horses before, said he was nervous at first but gradually let his guard down and was happily nuzzling the animals by the third day. “The horses are pure present,” said Diane, a Los Gatos resident. “They don’t worry about who they’re going to see the next day or what everyone else is working on. They play when they are playful, they sleep when they’re tired, they eat when they’re hungry. They’re incredible teachers in how to be.” No one in the group asked questions about his condition or pressured him to recall information about himself, which let him relax, Diane said. Research has shown that people can remember better when cortisol levels created by stress are low.
“What I observed was a level of acceptance and a level of hope,” Diane said. “(The diagnosis) doesn’t mean it’s going to be awful. There was hope that there still could be love and companionship and ways to share experiences that were fulfilling.” If results from the next phase of the Connected Horse study are positive, Hertel and Schier Anzelmo will try to institute the program beyond Northern California. “We want to keep people feeling hopeful and optimistic, so that as they move through the disease they can still feel like a whole person,” Hertel said. “But it can’t be done in a silo. This program brings people together. Our roles will change over time, how we do things may change over time, but the work on communication will make it all better.” (c)2016 The Sacramento Bee Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Travel Trending with Kathy Witt
pack your bags with the
Latest in Travel Goods Intelligent luggage, personal health and comfort items, space saving and enhancing solutions, there’s always a new bell or whistle to make life on the road more enjoyable and hassle-free. That’s good news for frequent flyers, roadies and adventurers in a world where airline seats keep shrinking, staying in touch means everything and getting enough rest seems like the impossible dream. Here are a few of the latest products to the travel goods landscape, some of which debuted at the 2016 International Travel Goods Show, held recently in Las Vegas. TO YOUR HEALTH
that comes with a washable cover. An elastic strap holds it in place and can be used as a carrying strap over your luggage or shoulder. “I’m an inventor at heart,” he said. “One day I saw a Flipillow horseshoe pillow and thought it would be comfortable to lie on facedown, kind of like a massage table.” After testing his idea, Vogel then develop a wedged-shaped contour pillow to work with his horseshoe pillow. “It’s not only comfortable for lying prone, but it’s also great for using together behind the head and separately to support the low back and neck at the same time,” he said.
A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING S And everything in its place. The ORGO Lite from Everything ORGO ($39.99; www.EverythingOrgo.com) has no less than 18 adjustable compartments to hold all your toiletries – but that’s not the coolest thing about this item. With an ingenious foldout panel that takes it from 15 inches to three feet of storage, it’s like traveling with your own vanity. Invented by two entrepreneurs who were traveling more than 120 days a year and fed up with not having enough counter space for makeup and toiletries, this item is especially handy in hotels with small bathrooms and cruise ships where bathroom counter space is always at a premium.
S With ever-shrinking airline seats, it can seem impossible to get comfortable on a The technology is simple: Unzip, flip plane, but there is a new and slide to expand ORGO Lite over personal body comfort almost any sink to create counter space system that helps you and have access to all your toiletries stretch, rest and even S Keeping legs and grooming supplies. A winner of sleep, all in the confines comfortable, especially a Product Innovation Award at the of your seat. The BRIDGE on long-haul flights, 2016 International Travel Goods Show, by SITTINGBRIDGE ($65; are Fresh Legs Copper it comes in black with a green, pink www.SittingBridge.com) Zensah Fresh Legs Copper Compression Socks or black zipper and is a molded polycarbonate shell covered Compression Socks slips tidily into small ($29.99; www.Zensah. in cushy neoprene. suitcases. com). Made by Zensah, Tuck BRIDGE behind your lower back to these socks combine S Baggalinni has release tension or beneath your thighs to copper-infused yarn and created the perfect raise up your knees. Place it on the open compression to increase “plus one personal seatback tray for a sleeping or reading circulation, reduce item” with its surface. Use it as a rocking footrest that swelling and relieve commuter backpack will flex your muscles and help with discomfort in the legs. ($98; www.baggallini. circulation. BRIDGE expands from less com). Packed with than one inch to over four inches in In fact, these socks pockets inside and energize and massage legs height and collapses for compact storage. out, this smaller-thanwith their vertical ribbing average backpack has a Baggallini Commuter Backpack S Joe Vogel has created a new twist and keep toes comfy in a place for all your needon the travel pillow with his flipillow seamless toe box. Zensah fabric provides to-keep-handy gear, tablet, cellphone, ($29.99; www.flipillow.net). Made in natural anti-odor management, for which travel docs, meds, snacks, cosmetics and the U.S.A. by Vogel’s company, Jovo, this your seatmates will thank you, for truly more. You can even tuck your swimsuit is a patent-pending two-pillow design feel-good feet, even at 35,000 feet. and a pair of flip flops inside and be
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
ready to hit the beach on arrival at your destination. A wide zipper opening gives you full access to the main compartment and the bag’s padded panels cushion electronics. Lightweight and water-resistant, the commuter comes in six trendy colors, including poppy, and is trimmed with faux-leather accents.
removable modular inserts to accommodate different sized devices.
uh-oh at the ticket counter and saving you excess baggage fees. The other is its extremely lightweight, water-resistant and 100 percent recyclable fabric. Called Dreamfel, it is 30 percent lighter than polyester and 20 percent lighter than nylon. You can pack more, not tip the excess fee scale and still be able to manage your bag. This fabric is also easy to clean.
The bag’s garment section lets you hang suits or dresses directly from closet to garment hanger clasp so they’re wrinkle-free and ready to wear when you arrive at your destination. SUITCASE SMARTS There are also multiple Ricardo Beverly Hills’ Malibu Bay organizing compartments, S Checkpoint-friendly luggage has been including two around for awhile and removable mesh-topped the Sparrow Wheeled Collection pieces include a USB Rolling ones plus a water bottle Garment Bag ($399.99; Tote, Shopper Tote, 20-inch Rolling pocket. www.ec-bc.com) by Duffel, 20-inch Carry-On Upright and ecbc has this time25- and 29-inch Uprights. Uprights have S Unveiled at the saving feature with 360-degree spinner wheel and multiInternational Travel Goods its FastPass System. stage locking handle systems and lots of Show but rolling out But then it goes interior organization, including pockets later this year is Ricardo above and beyond to for small accessories. This collection is Beverly Hills’ Malibu accommodate what worth the wait. Bay ($100-$300; www. is surely top-of-mind RicardoBeverlyHills.com), for today’s travelers: a rugged, hardwearing powering up devices. and eco-friendly soft-side Author, travel and lifestyle writer, and travel goods expert collection offered in gray, Sparrow Wheeled Garment Bag This sturdy, soft-side Kathy Witt feels you should never get to the end of your indigo blue and deep orange. bucket list; there’s just too much to see and do in the carry-on comes with a portable power world. She can be reached at KathyWitt24@gmail.com or pack with USB cable and a quick-charge KathyWitt.com. There are two appealing come-ons for pocket. No need to hunt down or prey on (c)2015 Kathy Witt Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC travelers. One is the top handle weight charging stations; this case lets you pack indicator that lets you know when you’ve your power with you. And it has padded exceeded 50 pounds, circumventing the pockets for both laptop and tablet with
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May Featured Artists
Wild Heart 60x48 mixed media, Cecily Hulett galleryonefineart.com/Cecily-Hulett
September Charm 12x24 oil on canvas, Anita Westerberg galleryonefineart.com/Anita-Westerberg
Break of Day 48x48 acrylic on canvas, Shirley Esco galleryonefineart.com/Shirley-Esco
Tripod, Wood Sculpture, Ken Lever galleryonefineart.com/Kenneth-Lever
Sugar Daddy 20x16 oil on canvas, Anne Hugghins galleryonefineart.com/Anne-Hugghins
Ambiguous 20x16 acrylic on canvas, Jane Segrest galleryonefineart.com/Jane-Segrest
Clytemnestra 48x36 oil on canvas, John Wagnon galleryonefineart.com/John-Wagnon Moon Series: Blood 2.5x13 copper sculpture, Bradley Moon galleryonefineart.com/Bradley-Moon
Crossing 20th 24x30 oil on canvas, Pamela Wesley Copeland galleryonefineart.com/Pamela-Wesley-Copeland
City View 48x36 acrylic on canvas, Carol Barksdale galleryonefineart.com/Carol-Barksdale
Visit Gallery One Fine Art 423 Cloverdale Road, Montgomery Gallery Director Sandi Aplin, galleryonefineart.com
Tree of Life 24x18 acrylic on canvas, Jim Sabel galleryonefineart.com/Jim-Sabel
Art & Soul
Sparking The Arts 2016
Over the last fifteen encouragement and years of working recognition to young with Shirley Esco artists by highlighting and Carol Barksdale their work at the school here at Gallery One, and county levels. The I am amazed at how Guild sponsors this many hours they program for all schools, volunteer, giving of both private and public Shirley Esco, President of the ECAG, their time, talent in Elmore County and presenting the four “Rising Star” awards and treasure, they studios. There are are the epitome of working for the three groups for juried exhibitions greater good. based on grade level. Group 1-students in grades K through 5th Shirley and Carol have made grade, Group 2-students in grades such a commitment to the next 6th through 8th grade and Group generation through their work 3 students in grades 9th through with the Elmore 12th , County Art Guild and Sparking the Arts. Each year the City Shirley has served as of Wetumpka President for three provides the use of terms with ECAG, the Wetumpka Civic she joined the ECAG Center to hold the in the late 1990’s reception for 250 to and Carol, a member 300 school children since the mid and their families. This 1980’s has served reception is hosted by as President for two the Wind Creek Casino Carol teaching at the Wetumpka terms. Hospitality Good To Library Reading Program Go again this year. Esco said, “For years we had an art competition for students. They entered their work and competed for a scholarship to win art lessons and art supplies. We were having a board meeting in 2005, I was President and Libby Christenson was Vice President, the art guild board was brainstorming when the group named the art competition, Sparking the Arts.” Sparking the Arts is an outreach of the Elmore County Art Guild and this program provides countywide recognition for student achievement in the visual arts. It is designed to offer
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
By Sandi Aplin
The juror this year is Lauren Hughes. The awards are Best of Show and four Rising Stars. Shaylee Levins, with her
award-winning painting, The generous “Lizard Dreams.” donations from businesses in the area help to offset some of the expense. So far this year, the ECAG has received donations from Walmart in Wetumpka, Attorney Regina Edwards, The Dixie Art Colony Foundation and Jackson Thornton.
Student picked from a participating school admiring the reception! Photo credit to Mark Harris and Dixie Art Colony Foundation
Sandi Aplin, Director of Gallery One Fine Art A freelance writer living in Montgomery, AL sandiaplin@aol.com or galleryonefineart.com
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By Greg Budell
The Mayor of BOOMTOWN
MOM & THE MAGIC WORD BOOMers with living Moms, I envy you. You can still tell her how amazing she is, and how sorry you are you didn’t appreciate her more during the selfish times of your youth. You can buy her a nice gift, knowing she’ll (once again) tell you “it’s too expensive and you should be saving your money”. You can take her to her favorite restaurant and return some of the spoiling she laid on you, over and over and over. From the time we bury our first goldfish and understand that everything dies, we know one day we’ll have to deal with the loss of our parents, and begin dreading it well in advance. Then, the “FF” button of life is pushed, and here I am trying to wrap my mind around the mathematical reality that my Mom has been gone for 25 years. She becomes only more amazing with the passing of time. My Mom and I shared one word that brought us much laughter in the years after she first uttered it. “Pansy”. She only said it once. That’s all she usually needed to say anything to get my attention. I did not inherit my radio voice from Pops. I got it from Mom, who didn’t require a transmitter to be heard by a large audience. As a kid, if Mom stuck her head outside yelling for “Gregory” every kid named Gregory within 5 miles was immediately checking with his Mom to see what she wanted.
Pansy Day occurred in the summer of ’70. I’d just graduated high school, and spent the first month of that summer being utterly useless. With high school dress codes gone, my hair was growing long. I’d embraced the fashions of the time. On Pansy Day, I believe I was wearing bell bottom jeans topped with a true hippie shirt- a cream colored job featuring psychedelically colored flowers.
on a warm summer afternoon, when our magnificent Plymouth Fury station wagon, Mom at the wheel, comes bounding into the driveway. As it passed my position on the sidewalk, I could see the back of the wagon packed with brown paper bags stuffed with groceries. “That looks like work”, I thought, watching as Mom jumped out, opened the tailgate and began unloading. She made 3 trips into the house, 2 bags at a time, returning to the back end of the station wagon with a grimace that grew darker with each encore.
A month after graduation I’d still not managed to find some type of employment to kill the time before starting college. Mom teased, saying “opening the side door of the house Greg is a Ben & Carol Budell Production and yelling ‘any jobs out there?’ was not going to produce much in the way of opportunities. I began to suspect her facial expression Honestly, as much as we laughed in the had something to do with my able-bodied retelling of Pansy Day over the years, I self, standing there- paralyzed by the sight hadn’t even tried opening the door to see of her effort, offering zero assistance. if a job was wandering down the street. With just a couple bags remaining, Mom returned to the rear of the car, and looked I was just plain LAZY. No excuses. at me with an expression I saw only once So there I am, standing in front of our my entire life. bungalow home on 77th Place in Chicago
Greg Budell's column is proudly sponsored by McDonald, Barranco & Hagen Wealth Management
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Then, she dropped the “P” bomb. “If you’re not going to help me carry in the groceries then why don’t you find a job, you PANSY!”. She grabbed the last bag, slammed the tailgate shut and marched to the kitchen doorwhich was also closed with Motherly Authority. Slam! She was right. I was a pansy. I was ashamed, humiliated and embarrassed for myself. Without even asking to borrow the car, I walked the half-mile to the nearby Ford City Mall (no way I was going back into the house). On instinct, I marched into WIeboldt’s department store, found the employment office and filled out an application. I handed it do a dowdy woman who, through her horned-rimmed glasses, looked at both sides of the single page application and said “We have an opening in our luggage department. Can you start this evening?”.
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“OH GOD YES!”, I declared. She handed me an employee badge, and asked me to return to her office at 5PM, wearing a white shirt and tie. During the walk back home, I felt the restoration of my masculinity, which had been left in tatters on the driveway. The mushroom cloud of the Pansy Bomb was still wafting over the asphalt when, less than 90 minutes after detonation, Gregory Benjamin Budell returned home, employed. I walked through the door fearlessly, sought out my Mother and announced “Guess what? I got a job! I start at Wieboldt’s tonight!”. Mom thought I was playing a cruel joke. “How did you find a job in an hour?”, she asked, looking at my Wieboldt’s badge. “I owe it all to you, Mom. ‘Pansy’ was the magic word!”. We laughed about that day many times over the years. Not long before she passed, I was doing a live broadcast from Disneyland. Walking back to the hotel from the set, I noticed a beautiful flower garden, with a proud sign poking up from the petals. It said “PANSY”. I carefully positioned myself in the flower bed, behind the PANSY sign, had my partner take a photo, and then Fed-Exed the picture to 77th place. Pansy was home, again, and Mom loved it. BOOMers, if you can still hug your Mom, do me a favor. Give her one for me. If she asks what it was for, tell her it was from me. And call it a Pansygram.
Greg Budell lives in Montgomery with his wife, children and dogs. He’s a 25 year veteran of radio who hosts the Greg & Susan morning show 6-9 am and Happy Hour 3-6 pm on NEWSTALK 93.1, Greg can be reached at gregbudell@aol.com The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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BOOM! Now Available At Publix
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
DATING Coach
You may have just found yourself a “Phone Pal”
Dear Lisa, I just had my fifth miserable first date in the last few months. I met a man who is 49 like me and lives in a nearby suburb. After emailing a couple of times, he asked me to meet him at a fancy restaurant. I assumed he wanted to meet for dinner because he listed an income of 100150K ... he works as an investor and he listed fine dining as one of his interests. I got there on time, in a nice dress with jewelry ... looking quite nice. He was not there yet, so I went to the ladies room to freshen up. When I got back, the hostess said he was out on the patio. We ordered wine but he must have told the waiter that we weren’t going to order any food because the waiter kept bringing food to the nearby tables but never gave me a menu or asked me if I wanted to order. During our date, I found out his son had moved back in with him along with his son’s wife and 2 toddlers. Then I asked about his other children and found out his daughter was still living with him as well! He was not very warm or caring and seemed to be rather detached and distracted while I was there. I’m beginning to wonder if there are any kind, caring men available at my age anymore? _Nance Nance, YES...There are lots of kind, caring men who would love to be in a relationship
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
with you at this age! Let’s start with taking a look at why you are choosing the men you date. Are there certain qualities you are looking for in a man? Would you be willing to venture “outside the box” of your usual type and date someone with qualities slightly different from the men you
Dear Lisa, I’ve been talking with a really nice man on the phone every night for about 2 weeks. We can talk for hours and we have so much fun laughing and sharing our day and our lives. But, he hasn’t asked me out ... what should I do? _Jody Jody, This type of man is what I call a Phone Pal. He’ll call you every night, yacking your ear off with stories about his day. He’ll tell you nice things, maybe even fall asleep because he’s so relaxed but he never asks you out. This is NOT ACCEPTABLE. STOP letting him use you this way.
might have dated in the past? Usually when you get the same dating results over and over again, it means you are dating the same type of man who just doesn’t work for you anymore. Start slow and try dating someone different from your usual type. Change just one quality about the men you date whether it’s his income, religion, political views, looks or something else. Sometimes, this is all you need to open the doors to more available good men to date you might not have seen before! One last point, it’s often worth investing 15-30 minutes of your time to talk with a man on the phone before you agree to meet. It will give you the opportunity to screen his personality a bit more thoroughly than you can in emails.
If you like this man ... tell him you’d like to meet the man whose voice you’ve gotten to know every night. If he doesn’t take the hint...no matter how great you think he is... it’s time to stop talking to him. A phone relationship is a fantasy dating relationship. It’s pretty easy to emotionally connect to a man when you talk on the phone every night. You end up sharing way too much about yourself because you have a connection and he feels safe to share your secrets with. When you do meet and your personalities don’t click the way they did on the phone, you end up feeling embarrassed that a man you don’t even like knows so much about you. Lisa Copeland, “The Dating Coach Who Makes Dating Fun and Easier after 50!” Find out more at Findaqualityman.com (c)2014, Lisa Copeland, findaqualityman.com Distributed by MCT Information Services
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May 2016
{12 Things} for active boomers and beyond
PIKE ROAD, ALABAMA
Music in May at The Waters! The Waters, Pike Road Sunday, May 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, 2-4pm
Don’t miss Music in May at The Waters! Grab your lawn chairs & coolers and invite your friends for Live Music at The Waters’ Town Square (3 Crescent Park, Pike Road) every Sunday in May from 2-4pm. Music Lineup: May 1st: Gypsy Cornbread; May 8th: Anthony Oliver May 15th: Rachael Wilson; May 22nd: Anthony Oliver;May 29th: BackHines Dixie Ensemble. Call 334.272.3200 for more information or visit facebook.com/events/456612184546719/
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
The 2016 Cloverdale-Idlewild Spring Concert Series Sundays, May, 1st, 8th, 15th, 22th, 4pm - 7pm
The 2016 CloverdaleIdlewild Spring Concert Series starts Sunday, April 5rd. This is the neighborhood’s most anticipated event of the year! It is always fun and a great way to meet your neighbors and visit with friends! Everyone is welcome, so bring all your friends and family!! Leashed dogs are also welcome, so bring your furry babies as well!! Hope to see y’all there!!! Cloverdale Bottom Park, Intersection of Cloverdale Road and Ponce de Leon Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36106. Enjoy a few hours in the park, starting at 4 pm! Concert Dates: May 1 - Federal Expression ● May 8 - Shouting Stones ● May 15 Caribbean Chrome ● May 22 - The Back, Hines, Mason Dixon Trio, ADMISSION IS FREE! Bring your chairs or blankets (or both), coolers, snacks. Plan to sit under the beautiful oak trees in the park setting and enjoy the music. For more info visit the Facebook Page/Cloverdale-Idlewild-Association
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BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA
Tom Arnold in Live at the Stardome Comedy Club Stardome, Hoover Friday, May 6, 7:30 pm & 9:45 pm Saturday, May 7, 6:30 pm & 8:45 pm Tom Arnold recently returned to his roots as a stand-up comic. Never scripted, Tom pokes fun at his Midwest past, marital follies and absurd Hollywood stories. Just like his past film and television comedy work, Tom is a ball of chaos and charisma on stage. Showtime premiered his first stand-up comedy special on New Year’s Eve, and he frequently hosts the popular “Laughing with the Stars” weekly comedy show at The Laugh Factory in West Hollywood featuring supporting acts ranging from rising young comics to all-time favorites. His shows are famous for their loose atmosphere with Tom breaking down the walls between his fellow comics and the audience. No one is quite sure what to expect any given night. For more info call 205.444.0008 or visit stardome.com
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA Southern Voices Cloverdale Playhouse Saturday, May 7th, 7:30-9:30 pm
For great writers telling great stories, look to the South. The Playhouse presents a new mix of readings and music celebrating a great American treasure. From Capote to Welty, O’Conner to Conroy, the South can boast an impressive list of writing. Funny, heartbreaking, historic: the words from this region’s stories, songs, poems, and plays will move you. Come spend an evening that will wrap you in the warmth of great words and songs in this encore performance. For more info and etickets visit cloverdaleplayhouse.org
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
Frazer Singles’ Missions Flea Market Parking Lot by Frazer Soccer Fields Saturday, May 7th, 7 am-1 pm One man’s junk is another man’s treasure! And whether it’s junk or treasure, the annual Missions Flea Market sponsored by the Frazer Single Adult Ministry makes something wonderful of it by raising funds o support mission projects that reach out to those in need here in Montgomery and in some of the darkest corners of the world. Come and Shop! It’s fun, and remember, all proceeds go to Frazer Singles’ missions. For more info, all 334.495.6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA
Prattville Cityfest Main Street - Historic Downtown Prattville Friday & Saturday, May 13-14, Hrs: 7-11pm; 9-5pm Arts and Crafts festival with food, entertainment, and children’s activities. Free Concert - Friday, 7-11pm. Arts & Crafts - Saturday; 9am until 5pm. For more info call Prattville Chamber 334.365.7392 Main Street - Historic Downtown Prattville. Admission: $2; $1 for Military; 5 and under free. For more info visit: prattvillecityfest.com
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA The 27th Annual Greek Food Festival Greek Orthodox Church May 12-14, 10-8pm
The 27th Annual Greek Food Festival will be held May 12-14, 2016 on the grounds of the Greek Orthodox Church at the corner of Mt. Meigs and Capital Parkway. Ticket information TBA. For more information, call 334.221.9511. For more info visit agocmal.org
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
River Jam Music Festival-Downton Montgomery Train Shed/Riverfront Amphitheater Friday, May 20th, 6pm, Saturday May 21st, 5:30pm Dust off your lawn chairs and break out your dancin’ shoes … it’s time for River Jam 2016! The fourth annual music festival is going to be bigger and better this year than ever before. The two-night, two-stage event of the past is expanding this year to include an extra stage on Saturday night. Venues will include the Union Station Train Shed on Friday night, then both the train shed and the Riverwalk Amphitheater on Saturday night. The festival will feature a diverse mix of musical genres including blues, rock, R&B, soul, jazz, reggae, funk, and Americana. Friday night will focus on talent from the Montgomery area and Saturday night will highlight national and regional touring acts. Admission is free. Coolers are not allowed, but vendors will be on site to sell food and beverages (including beer and wine). This is a rain or shine event. Sorry, no pets allowed. For more info visit alabamarootsmusic.com or funinmontgomery.com.
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA Brewfest-Downtown Montgomery Train Shed Friday, May 20th, 6-9 pm
Located under the Train Shed, in Downtown Montgomery. The third annual Brewfest will feature a large selection of Craft, Specialty and Seasonal brews from Local, Regional and National Breweries. Riverjam concert to follow the taste. Tickets are $25/Person & Includes a Commemorative Tasting Glass. Must be 21 or Older to Purchase Tickets. For more info visit funinmontgomery.com
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
Farmers Market The Shoppes at EastChase Saturday, May 28th, 7-Noon The Shoppes at EastChase 12th Annual Farmers Market opens this year with more vendors, cooking demonstrations and fitness options for adults and children throughout the summer and fall. Visit the Market every Saturday through October 22 rain or shine near Dillard’s for the freshest produce around. You will also find local art, pottery, bath products and more at this year’s Farmers Market! For more information about the The Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market, contact Suzanna Wasserman, Marketing Manager at 334.279.6046. theshoppesateastchase.com
BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA
Harry Connick Jr. Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC) Concert Hall Sunday, June 5, 8pm With the release of his new CD That Would Be Me and his daytime entertainment show “Harry” slated for a Fall 2016 debut, Harry continues his tireless creative journey, showcasing new insights into his artistry. That Would Be Me, Harry’s newest CD will be part of his concert in Birmingham. Harry Connick, JR. has always possessed a deeply ingrained understanding of how to get the most out of a song. His New Orleans roots have informed his music since he was 5 years old; Connick’s ability to advance those ties and musically evolve throughout his three decade career has made him a pivotal figure in American music. Phone: 205.458.8400. For more info visit, harryconnickjr.com or bjcc.org
STATE of ALABAMA
Alabama Beer Trail - Flight 1 The State of Alabama Any Time You Want Alabama’s burgeoning craft beer scene practically begs you to make a pilgrimage to some of the 29 breweries and brew pubs in the state. A decade ago, some legal barriers to beer production were dropped and breweries began to sprout up like hop bines. Now you’ll find beer hot spots throughout Alabama, attracting both ale aficionados and craft beer neophytes. From the Tennessee border in the north to the Gulf in the south, destinations await adventurous and thirsty travelers. Some breweries to visit, Yellowhammer Brewing, Straight to Ale, Back Forty Beer Company, Cheaha Brewing Company...for more info on this road trip visit alabama.travel/road-trips
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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“Working Hard” By Christal Hayes
Every day for the past 30 years Woody Blevins has gone about meticulously landscaping about an acre of land bordering his home, turning it into his own private park.
He dons a straw hat and often spends eight hours a day with his mower, trimmer and clippers to make sure the Howey-in-the-Hills, Fla., resident Woody Blevins, who turned 101 on March 30, has manicured lot worked for the past three decades to create his own personal park along State Road 19 keeps its curb appeal. But like a lot of “Everything you see out there, I did. I’m older people who have spent too many happy it’s going to be something that days mowing, pulling weeds and sweating, everyone will enjoy for years to come after he finally decided it was time to cut back. I’m gone.” He’s now 101. Blevins and his wife, Leah, recently donated the land to the tiny Lake County town about 35 miles northwest of Orlando so it can serve as a public park for residents to enjoy beyond admiring it from the road. The town of Howey-in-the-Hills has taken over maintenance, although Blevins can’t resist helping out. “I didn’t realize I was making a park,” he said. “I just thought my lawn looked good.” The lot is bordered by oak trees, and at the center sits a flagpole and a large circular shrub. Blevins dug trenches and installed an intricate electrical and irrigation system for the lot, which houses about a dozen large globe lights and 200 plants, including bougainvilleas, gardenias and lilies. He used concrete bricks to border plants and has poured about 300 bags of river rocks and mulch throughout the area. “I love working hard and would much rather be outside helping grow something beautiful than out golfing,” Blevins said.
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An Ohio native, Blevins worked as a contractor for engineers and in construction, which helped provide him the skills to transform the lot from an old orange grove along the highway that cuts through the community of 1,200 into a park. His lot has become well-known in the area through the years, drawing admiring glances from passing motorists and occasionally causing someone to stop with a blanket and picnic basket, not realizing it’s not public property. One of Blevins’ neighbors, Richard Messersmith, has watched the land take shape for two decades. “It’s amazing. He’s out there for hours and hours every day, making sure everything looks perfect,” said Messersmith, 76. Blevins’ green thumb has spread around the neighborhood. Many homes, including the one of Messersmith and his wife, Susan, also have well-groomed yards and polished gardens. Blevins has invested about $25,000 in the park, but when the town’s water
rates increased, it got to be an even more expensive project. He said his water bill one month topped $400. Mayor Chris Sears said Blevins had approached him about his water bills, and the pair came to an agreement that gives the Blevinses free water for life in exchange for the land, which is on the tax rolls for about $24,000. “I told him we’d name the park after him, and it would serve as a great tribute to all the work he’d done to make it such a beautiful display of Florida landscaping,” Sears said. “It’s just a win-win situation for everyone.” The mayor said the lot is in a great location because motorists coming into town and traveling through to Clermont or Tavares pass by it. Blevins said it was an easy decision to donate the lot to the town, which was incorporated in 1925, when Blevins was 9. “I could have sold it or built a few houses there, but I don’t want the money.” Blevins said. “I just wanted someone to take care of it since I couldn’t.” Sears said Howey’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board has been making plans for the park, including an idea to transform it into a tribute for veterans and call it Blevins Patriot Park. The town is responsible for upkeep, but Blevins still helps out occasionally while also tending a small landscaped area near his home. “Of course, I get a bit worried about him out here, but this is what he loves doing,” said Leah Blevins, 86, who says she’s her husband’s “backup quarterback.” Woody Blevins, who has one daughter, a grandson and two great-grandsons, said he doesn’t have any plans to limit his time outdoors. “My doctor says he can’t find anything wrong with me. In fact, one of the last times I went, he told me I was in better shape than him,” Blevins said, laughing. He attributes his health to two words. “Working hard.” Copyright (c) 2016, The Orlando Sentinel Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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