BOOM!, The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Contents
May 2011
“Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.” Volume I Issue 10
Carl Bard
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 6 Publisher’s Letter 12 Do You Know A Teacher 13 Walk of Life Update page 20
18 Clean Food page 20
Features 20 Look Younger Looking younger at 50.
16 Your Health
Take control of your health, ideas you can adopt.
20 12 Expressions
19 Failure: Not an Option 22 Capri Theatre
Old school expressions you may want to teach your grandkids.
22 Healthy Hearing 23 Relay for Life
Departments 8 This and That
28 {12} Things
Something interesting, even for you!
Plenty to do for Boomers and Beyond.
25 John Ed Mathison Resurrection Roll Call.
24 EndNotes: Q & A 27 Bruno Mars-Boomer Won’t Go Contest
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COVER PROFILE page 10
Boomers Won’t Go Contest!
30 LOL Boomer & Beyond Humor
page 27 page 16 BOOM! magazine is published monthly by River Region Publications, 8637 Harvest Ridge Dr., Montgomery, AL 36116. The phone number for voice and fax is 334.523.9510. Copyright 2011 by River Region Publications. No part of this publication can be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Opinions expressed in BOOM! magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
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Find Hope M a k e a differenCe reDiscover your faiTh wiTh The frazer family. Dr. Tim Thompson, senior minisTer TradiTional & ConTemporary Worship 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00
m a i n C a m p u s : 6 0 0 0 aT l a n Ta h i g h Way 3 3 4 . 2 7 2 . 8 6 2 2 asbury Campus: 4540 narroW lane road 334-281-8971 The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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publisher’s letter
I Think I Can, I Think I Can 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.
Like many of you reading this column, I grew up during the decade of the fifties. I have distinct memories of what moms were expected to be. We saw it in the television shows we watched. In Father Knows Best, I remember the mom, Margaret Anderson, having the wisdom to solve problems or advise Bud, her son, on how to approach a sticky situation. I also remember Beaver’s mom, June Cleaver, always being the cool and calming influence over her two sons, Wally and the Beave. She also provided solutions to her husband, Ward, when he got a little uptight. June even handled the always annoying Eddie Haskell with grace and respect.
Publisher/Editor
Jim Watson, 334.523.9510 jim@riverregionboom.com
Associate Editor Kelly Watson
kelly@riverregionboom.com
Contributing Writers Dr. Bettie Borton Rhonda Day
Jim Watson, Publisher
intelligent.
Catherine Johnston John Ed Mathison Eve Moseley
Rebecca Nappi Amy Sherman
Cover Photography
Maria Wiggins, Reflections of Grace maria@reflectionsofgracestudios.com www.reflectionsofgracestudios.com
Advertising
Jim Watson, 334.523.9510 jim@riverregionboom.com
Monette Mottenon, 334.523.9510
monette@riverregionboom.com
Design & Layout Lake House Graphics
Distribution
Network Delivery
Printing
Publications Press, Montgomery, AL 334.244.0436
People sometimes make fun of the images of fifties moms as being naïve, lacking any intellect or just being mind numbed robots. They weren’t any of those things. My mom was a fifties mom and she was bright, charming and
My mom taught me many things. She helped me solve problems just like Beaver’s mom. She shared her wisdom with me. My mom made me think about life and she made me listen to it as well. One of the most distinct memories I have of my mother is her reading to me on many occasions the Watty Piper book, The Little Engine That Could. It’s a classic story about persistence, determination and optimism. I remember her clearly instilling in me the “I think I can, I think I can” attitude The Little Engine had when he was faced with a big challenge. My mom gave me many moments like that. Moments to build a life on. That’s what moms do best. My mom had Alzheimer’s for many years before she died so I missed sharing many of my growing up memories with her. But her time spent with me will never be forgotten.
BOOM! is loaded with interesting information this month. If you don’t know Eve Moseley, you’ll want to in this month’s BOOM! Cover Profile. She is a unique woman who understands style. Have you ever found yourself “barking up the wrong tree” or wanting to get down with the “nitty gritty”? Well these expressions may be familiar to us, but not to our grandkids. We explain how to teach them what they mean, if it matters.
Need a chuckle or maybe a laugh, check out the LOL Boomer & Beyond Humor page and then consider our 12 Things department for some interesting things to do in May. One of those things is the Jubilee Cityfest. This year Bruno Mars is performing on Friday night. Who is Bruno Mars you ask? Well according to my granddaughters, he’s cool and a tween sensation (my words). But the truth is many people of different ages dig his music and you may, too. I assume most Boomers wouldn’t go see Bruno, so we’re giving away some tickets to any Boomers who want to enter the Boomers Won’t Go Contest on page 27. I look forward to seeing some of you there! Thanks for all the support of BOOM! I appreciate the comments and, most importantly, the opportunity to provide information we Boomers can relate to. Please share BOOM! with your friends and share any ideas or comments with us. We value your input. It’s an exciting time to be Booming!
Jim
jim@riverregionboom.com 334.324.3472 cell/text 334.523.9510 office Please Recycle This Magazine, Share with a Friend!
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CORRECTION In last month’s issue of BOOM! we failed to credit our cover photo to Big Dreamz Creative. They do creative marketing work for many organizations, including the Joy to Life Foundation. The owners are Tommy and Nancy Fields. Check them out online at www.bigdreamz.com
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i
This & tHAT
Jackson Hospital Celebrates National Volunteer Week
Jackson Hospital recently celebrated National Volunteers Week with a special luncheon at Wynlakes Country Club to honor all of the wonderful hospital volunteers. Awards were given to volunteers in various areas, including number of years served, one-year and five-year, as well as the coveted Volunteer of the Year award. Volunteering at Jackson Hospital is a rewarding experience. Volunteers must be at least 19-years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. They must complete an application and pass a background check. For more information about becoming a volunteer, contact our volunteer services director at 334-293-8967.
Volunteer of the Year: Mary Alice Strickland Most hours worked: Betty Roy (CVICU/ICU) total hours 1,500 Outstanding service to Jackson (more than 500 hours volunteered)
Roosevelt McDowell, Ray Walker, Eddie Jungwirth, Barbara Erickson, Otis Marshall Shantae Finklea, Linda White 5 year pins: Melba Watson and Gloria Cooley 1 year pins: Alice Cotton, Eddie Foley, Robert Giesler, Sherry Giesler, Lee Hawkins, Eddie Jungwirth Jackson Hospital volunteers donated 15,758 hours last year. For more information on volunteering at Jackson Hospital, viisit www.jackson.org/patients
American Cancer Society seeks Volunteers for Road to Recovery The American Cancer Society is seeking volunteers for Road to Recovery, a program designed to ensure that cancer patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatment. Volunteer drivers provide patients with a ride in order to keep them on their regular treatment schedule. In the past several years, there has been a significant increase in demand for Road to Recovery transportation services, which is expected to grow even more through the next 20 years. The 60 and older population will increase by 32 percent, and the population over 85 will increase by nearly 90 percent. Road to Recovery volunteers can be individual drivers with time to help others or even local companies who allow employees to provide transportation on company time in company cars. While Road to Recovery volunteers currently come from all walks of life, the American Cancer Society knows that there are undiscovered possibilities in every community. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more information, or to volunteer, please call Luella Giles at (334) 612-8162 or call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345.
The Hampstead Institute Introduces “Organic Gardening 101” Sessions for Adults and Teens! Adults and teens are invited to join us every second Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. through November for hands-on, organic gardening sessions with the Hampstead Institute’s own Farmer Anne and Farmer Jetson. Topics will cover planting to harvesting, and everything in between. Participants should be prepared to be outside: water, clothes that can get dirty and sunscreen are essentials! Sign up will begin at 9:30 a.m. prior to each workshop. Cost: $5 per session. Schedule and Location: May 14th - Soil Nutrition – Fertilizing, mulching, and basic soil science (Hampstead Institute Downtown Farm) June 11th – Cut flowers and Herbs – Growing for the backyard garden, plus flower arranging 101 (Hampstead Farms) July 9th – Seed Saving – Taking the next step in sustainable gardening (Hampstead Institute Downtown Farm) August 13th – Composting – Simple composting at home (Hampstead Farms) September 10th – Planning and Planting - Decisions for the fall/winter garden (Hampstead Institute Downtown Farm) October 8th - Backyard fruit production – Using fruit trees in the landscape (Hampstead Farms) November 12th - Garden Crafts – Fun activities with materials right outside your door (Hampstead Institute Downtown Farm) For details or to sign up for an organic gardening session, email Farmer Anne Randle, anne@hampsteadinstitute.org. For more information on Hampstead Farms or the Hampstead Institute Downtown Farm, visit www.hampsteadinstitute.org or www.hampsteadfarms.com
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BOOMERS, share your stuff with BOOM! We Love to Bring BOOMERS Together, send info and pics to jim@riverregionboom.com
Smile Mom!
According to National Retail Federation, the average person buying for Mother’s Day is expected to spend $140.73 on gifts, up from $126.90 last year, with total spending expected to reach $16.3 billion. That’s a lot of flowers and cards. BIGresearch conducted the NRF’s 2011 Mother’s Day Consumer Intentions and Actions survey and they found that mom will be getting more electronics this year (13.3% up from 9%), including smartphones, cameras and tablets. (Lucky moms), 31.2% of those surveyed said they’ll be shelling out for gold or diamonds this Mother’s Day and the same number of (cheaper) people, said they’ll be buying mom clothing or accessories. 54.7% will be taking mom out to dinner and a whopping 64.9% will spring for flowers.When it’s time to shop, 21.5% will do it online while the others will hit the department or specialty stores. And while most of the money will be spent on the buyer’s actual mom, some said they’d also be buying for their wife (19.6%), daughter (9.6%), grandmother (8.0%), sister (8.4%), friend (7.3%) or godmother (1.8%). NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay says, “This Mother’s Day, the woman who often puts herself last is being put first. Americans are in a much better position to spend this year and will push the daily stresses of high gas and food costs aside for one day to celebrate the most important women in the world to them.” Makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Mother’s Day is next Sunday, May 8 (in case you needed a reminder.)
THE LATTICE INN OFFERS PLAYCATION PACKAGE If you’re sweltering under the summer heat, one of the best ways to cool off is with a swim! Don’t have a pool? Then, a “Playcation” at The Lattice Inn is for you! According to Innkeeper Jim Yeaman, “The Playcation Package gives a group of two or more an opportunity to swim, sun, and relax at The Lattice Inn for about what it would cost to go to a movie. For $5 each, two or more guests can enjoy two hours of swimming in the sparkling salt water pool, relax in the hot tub, or just lie out in the sun on any of the three decks.” Space is limited and reservations are accepted for late morning, midday, or early afternoon packages. Late afternoon and early evening packages are available for adults only. For more information, visit the website: www.thelatticeinn.com, call 334.262.3388 or email: info@thelatticeinn.com.
MACOA Golf Tournament The Montgomery Area Council On Aging will hold its annual charity golf tournament May 6 at Capitol Hill in Prattville (Legislator Course). Registration starts at 7 a.m.; shotgun start at 8 a.m. Cost is $100 per person or $400 per team. All proceeds go to the Meals On Wheels program. For more information, call MACOA at 263-0532.
Grow the BIGGEST Pumpkin with the Grandids Ready, Set, Grow! Pumpkin Growing Contest...It all started with one little pumpkin seed. Contest Kick Off and Seed Distribution happening NOW! Simply send us an email or give us a call to order your pumpkin seeds: readysetgrowal@yahoo. com or call Miss Connie in Montgomery at 334-269-5622. Brought to you by RSG Festivals of Alabama. All proceeds go to the Ready, Set, Grow! Pumpkin Growing Program for children ages 5-12. visit the website at www.readysetgrowal. webs.com.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
The American Red Cross of Central Alabama will host it’s “Taste of the Gardens” event on May 5th from 5-8:00 pm at Southern Homes and Gardens on Vaughn Road. The American Red Cross of Central Alabama invites the public to attend this unique celebration, tickets are only $15 per person, and proceeds will benefit the Red Cross. You may purchase tickets at Red Cross or any SH&G location. Guests will be treated to wine, hors d’oeuvres, live music and 20 percent off items purchased that evening at Southern Homes and Gardens. They will also have the chance to bid on several fabulous prizes during a silent auction. Additionally, for a $5 donation they can possibly win one of three $100 shopping sprees to Southern Homes and Gardens. As a special treat to all Auburn and Alabama fans our silent auction will offer patrons an opportunity to bid on season tickets to both university home games. This is rare opportunity and one that we will feel will bring some big support to the Red Cross. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call (334) 260-4016 or email hodgesk@ montgomeryarc.org.
I Need More Shoes!
The Shoppes at EastChase will soon have the area’s only DSW (Designer Shoe Warehouse®) store, offering not only dress, casual and athletic footwear for men and women, but also hosiery, handbags and other accessories. The store located next to Panera Bread, is scheduled to open in the fall of 2011.
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BOOM! COVER PROFILE
Eve Moseley, Caring Service
This month’s BOOM! profile is Eve Moseley. Eve owns and operates Eve’s Studio, along with her husband, Carey. Eve is one of those River Region Boomers (she’s 52) who typifies the kind of energy, attitude and desire to live out her dreams with style. Her business, located in the Mulberry District on Clubview St. (The Little Green House), is a perfect blend of pampering services (hair, nails, skin, makeup, and waxing), Gourmet food to go and a very unique quality boutique. She offers a “one stop shopping” experience for the busy woman or the smart husband! Eve explained that her focus is on serving her customers, which is one reason she offers the many services at her studio. Her customers appreciate shopping for gifts and dinner, while enjoying some pamperEve and Chloe ing time. Eve shared a few minutes of her busy schedule with BOOM! to talk about her family, business and philosophy. Eve represents one of the many interesting Boomers of the River Region. We hope you enjoy getting to know her, we certainly did.
BOOM!: Please give us a brief biography, i.e. where you’re from, education, what brought you to the Montgomery area, did you raise your family here, schools, married, family, etc?
Eve: I was born in England to an Air Force family. My dad and mom are Maxie and Gail Cooper. Our family was transferred back to the states and we settled in Montgomery, AL. I graduated from Lee High School and then went to J.P. Tech to train in cosmetology. After graduating from J.P. Tech, I went right to work and started my career. In 1987, I married Carey Moseley and in 1990, we had a son that we named Cooper. Cooper graduated from Success
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Unlimited Academy and then went to college on a baseball scholarship. He will be playing baseball for Faulkner University starting in fall of 2011. We also have another family member named Chloe. She is a Yorkshire Terrier that is very special.
BOOM!: As an entrepreneur tell us about
your business, what motivated you to start Eve’s Studio? There are many competitors out there, what gives you an advantage?
Eve: Eve’s Studio has now been in business for four years. What sets us apart from everyone else is our customer service and our great staff. We want our customers to feel special every time they walk through
the door. Eve’s Studio was started so I could have the opportunity to give my clients so much more and to let them know how special they really are.
BOOM!: What was the most difficult
thing in deciding to open your studio? Any lessons you can share with other aspiring entrepreneurs, especially, women?
Eve: The biggest obstacle we had to overcome was where to locate. We chose the Mulberry Business District because it was easy access from anywhere in the River Region. This area also is a more economical area for a business to get started. I believe that new business owners need to be very flexible because business is always changing. You must change with your business to achieve greater success. One piece of advice I would like to offer any business person is to have a strong relationship with your bank. You also need a great accountant along with an insurance agent that has your best interest at heart. We have indeed done that. All of those people play a serious role on our team. BOOM!: Many of us in the Boomer age
look forward to the time when the kids are finally out of the house, on their own, or off to college, maybe even married, so we can experience that “empty nest” syndrome. What kind of experience has that been for you?
Eve: Empty nest syndrome, what’s that???? We spend all our time growing our business and having a blast! BOOM!: What are you most passionate about?
Eve: I am most passionate about making every client that walks through our door feel special. I want every client’s time that they spend with us to be a time of total relaxation. I am also passionate about spending time with my family and close friends. BOOM!: How do you like to relax and
wind down from a hard day’s work at the Studio?
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Eve: I relax and wind down by spending time with family and friends. Usually when I get off, I spend time with my husband just talking about the things that happened that day. We constantly discuss ways to change and improve things in our business. I know it sounds crazy, but that’s very relaxing to me. BOOM!: With your busy schedule, do you
get to travel much? Favorite vacation spot? Any travel dreams for the future?
Eve: We spend every spare dime and all our spare time traveling to see our son play baseball. Our family takes a family vacation once a year. Last year we spent a week in Orlando between Christmas and New Years and it was a lot of fun and very relaxing. This year we have plans to go on a cruise to the Western Caribbean. BOOM!: What is it about living in the
Montgomery/River Region area that you like?
Eve: The River Region is in a growing
mode. It’s very exciting to see this area change. The addition of a minor league baseball team and a beautiful stadium was tremendous. The downtown area looks better all the time and is turning into a real nice place to spend time at all the new eating establishments. I can’t wait to see what else is in store.
BOOM!: Many of us are defined by our
work, what does Eve’s Studio mean to you?
Eve: Eve’s Studio is a happy, feel good,
forget your troubles, kind of place. Many people show up for their appointments early to browse the boutique, or just simply sit and read a magazine. One of the most inspiring parts of Eve’s Studio is seeing the change in people once they start visiting us, their appearance changes and with that, normally we see an attitude change. When we see this, we know we accomplished our goal.
BOOM!: What would you do if you didn’t own and operate your business? Other career choices?
Eve: If I did not have Eve’s Studio, I would be doing hair somewhere. I don’t think I could ever get away from that. Now that we have our gift boutique, I have become
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very involved in the buying for that. I think it would be fun to be a buyer for a large department store. I also did some interior decorating at one time. That would be fun to be involved with again if I had the time.
BOOM!: I see your husband Carey works
with you in the business. How do you make that work?
Eve: We are a great team. I am the artistic one and he is the, “behind the scenes” business person that makes it all possible. Without him, I don’t think this business would have ever been started. I will have to say that at times we have some heated arguments, but that usually results in a change that ends up being better for our business but sometimes we have to just agree to disagree. Being business partners has certainly made our marriage stronger but I would not recommend that to anyone. You must have a very special marriage, to also be business partners. BOOM!: Do you have any hobbies or
other activities that grab your attention?
Eve: I love to work in my yard. It’s a lot of fun to plant things and watch them grow. I guess I get that from my mom. She has a degree in landscape design and has always loved to work in her yard.
Cooper pitching against Georgia Tech
Bottom row-left to right, Beverly Trawick (Dear Friend), Eve Moseley, Gail Cooper (Eve’s Mom) Sarah Moseley (Carey’s Mom). Back Row-left to right, Carey Moseley, Lauren Webster (Cooper’s
Girl Friend-Plays softball at UAB and was the Conference USA Freshman of the year in 2010), Cooper Moseley (Led University of Georgia in saves as a freshman),
Maxie Cooper-(Eve’s Dad)
BOOM!: What future challenges do you
have? Would you like to expand your business? Start new ones?
Eve: I am not sure what the future holds. At present, Carey and I both have our plates full but we have an open mind for all ideas. BOOM!: As a professional stylist, can you share some tips for us 50+ Boomers and Beyond?
Eve: So many people feel that when they reach 50, they have to go into the maintenance mode and there is no hope for their appearance. I feel that life really starts at 50. It’s time to start changing things. It’s time to be open minded and have lots of fun! If you find yourself in a position that you need to relax, or you might want to make a change in your appearance, it might be time for you to visit Eve’s Studio!!!
Eve preparing the boutique for customers If you have any questions for eve you can send them to carey@evesstudionllc.com or call 2628888. For more info visit eve’s website, www. evesstudiollc.com. We want to thank Jackie Maloy for her unique talent and assistance in making this month’s cover come together, it wouldn’t have happened without her! We also want to thank Dawn for helping us arrange the photo shoot with Eve. Of course, we want to thank Eve for gracing our cover this month, you were fun to work with because your positive attitude is contagious! Finally, thanks to Carey Moseley for his role in helping us get the information we needed. If you have questions, comments or suggestions, please send them to jim@riverregionboom.com
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Do You Know A Teacher?
Sign up today for one of our Summer Workshops!!
The Alabama Wildlife Federation is hosting four different conservation education workshops for teachers this summer where educators will participate in field trips, hands-on activities, and discussions with natural resource professionals. The cost is only $40.00 per participant, which includes lodging and meals and free educational resources. All four of the summer workshops will be held at the AWF’s Headquarters at Lanark in Millbrook. Discovering Our Heritage through the Outdoors Workshop: June 13-16 - Learn about a model educational program that incorporates environmental education as a means by which to integrate the teaching of history, geography, science, mathematics, and language arts on a day-today basis and receive hands-on training in a variety of quality resources such as Project WILD, Project Learning Tree, and Discovering Alabama.
Discovering Alabama’s Natural Wonders through Nature Journaling, Photography
and the Arts Workshop: June 21-23 - Learn how to bring nature into the classroom through writing, photography and art activities that utilize the outdoors as the source of inspiration and investigation.
and other purposes just like our early ancestors did throughout Alabama. To download a registration flier, visit www. alabamawildlife.org
Discovering Alabama’s Big Outdoors with Literature Workshop: July 19 & 20 - Learn how to make nature and reading come to “life” by making connections between selected children’s literature and the natural world through the use of hands-on, inquiry-based, multi-disciplinary activities. In addition, educators will learn about “Take Home Backpacks” and “Nature Kits” as a way to make learning more meaningful for the children and encourage parental involvement.
For more details, click here to visit AWF’s Educator Workshops webpage www. alabamawildlife.org or email: keasade@ aces.edu and aprilwaltz@knology.net phone: 1-800-822-9453
Discovering Alabama by “Going Native” Workshop: July 12 & 13 - Learn about and identify fauna and flora that are native to Alabama and the environment within which they live. In addition, learn how to use “Wild Plants” for food, dyes, medicine
al aBa M a S h aK E S P Ea r E F E S Ti Va l
now Playing Through May 29 “Frankly my dear, this is one funny play!”
Thom Rivera, Nandita Shenoy, Brik Berkes and Eric Hoffmann
-NY Daily News
now Playing Through May 21 Very British! Very Bollywood! Very Funny!
Brik Berkes and Phillip Christian
Tale of power, betrayal and revenge!
w w w . a s f . n e t | M O n t G O M e R Y, a L facebook.com/alabamashakes
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800.841.4273
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Walk of Life Update WOW! The 10th Anniversary of the Walk of Life was the biggest celebration ever! It was fabulous!
Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange and the Montgomery Fire Department were the official Race Starters. The fire department started the race with a pink water spray drizzling the race participants as they began their walk. The Walk organizers were still gathering all the information, but they do know there were 4800+ participants on Saturday April 16th with over $200,000 raised! The organizers ask if you are still fundraising, please send your donations to Joy to Life as soon as possible and remember that 100% of the money raised at the Walk of Life stays in Alabama to help Joy to Life continue providing free mammograms for the medically underserved in 29 counties!
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Have you seen the videos? Enjoy a view of the Walk of Life from a new angle -- watch the time-lapse video of the beginning of the race/walk event on Saturday! And if you haven’t met Harry Green yet -- check out his Walk of Life short report video -YOU may be in it!!
Jim Watson, BOOM! Publisher with granddaughters, Katie, 11 (left) and Anna, 10
Congratulations to all the division winners! All age group winners received an embroidered beach towel. The winner of the 2011 Hyundai Elantra GLS was April Payne from Montgomery! Happy driving, April!
For videos, winners and other fun stuff visit
www.joytolife.org See you next year!
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You’re as old as you feel? Please. You’re as old as you look. Women know that other people judge them by how they look. If you look tired, haggard and worn, you also look old, and you feel older, too. Women 50 years and older are definitely facing a battle with the aging process. They are often more socially and psychologically satisfied, but their bodies are beginning to show the outward signs of age. However, Susan Nolen-Hoeksema, a noted Yale professor of psychology, concludes from studies on older women that women’s lives get better with age, not worse. So why not make your appearance better than ever as well?
TODAY’S OLDER WOMAN If you are allowing your mental perception of the “older woman” to dictate how you look and dress, then maybe you need to think again. The grandmothers of today are very different than our grandmothers. Instead of a plump little woman dressed in a calico apron with cropped gray hair, today’s grandmothers and older women fit a different mold.
With more education, greater access to beauty services and a desire to lead an active, vigorous life, today’s older woman can be more beautiful and vibrant than ever. How? It’s really simple. It’s all about taking care of yourself and allowing yourself to be beautiful. Don’t hide behind your age; allow your beauty to shine. Many women approach the age of 50 with apprehension, thinking they must cut their hair shorter, wear longer skirts and higher shirts, and hide their body. After all, is it appropriate for a grandmother to take the grandkids to the park looking youthful? Absolutely.
Remember, how a woman looks is a selffulfilling prophecy, allowing her to act and feel better because she looks better.
MAKE IT HAPPEN So, how do you make it happen? Conversations with three women who have overcome the age barrier give us great insights.
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Looking Younger at 50 By Rhonda W. Day
Susan’s highlights: Susan is 58 years old, and she says it’s all about hair. “Hair is your crowning glory at any age, so make it work for you as you get older. No longer do women have to cut their hair as they age.” With hair slightly below shoulder length and vibrantly highlighted, Susan has found a style that works for her. “The ritual of cutting your hair off when you get older is now outdated,” she explains. Instead, she recommends trying several different hair lengths to find what works for you. Longer hair can be easier to manage and style. It can even spark more intimacy with your husband or partner. “And by all means, do not shy away from color, highlights and other color-enhancing processes. With today’s hair products, you don’t have to worry about damaging your hair when you consult a qualified professional stylist. Hair has always been a mark of beauty, and a longer style may be just what you need to look and feel younger,” she emphasizes.
Marlene’s vision: At 53, Marlene believes that “eyes are the window to the soul,” as the saying goes. “Eyes are also an indication of how old you are, or how old people perceive you are!” she explains. “It’s important to treat the eyes carefully and use a good quality moisturizer designed especially for use around the eyes. And if you’re looking for a real eye lift that erases years from your face, try gold eye shadow.” Consult with a make-up professional at a local department store or day spa to get tips on how to brighten your eyes and look younger. Check out these top 10 beautiful eyes to see how older women use eyes to their advantage: http://www.toptenz.net/top-ten-most-beautiful-eyes.php. Victoria’s way: Victoria admits that age usually causes some changes in body shape and form, and that was her pri-
mary concern as she approached her 50th birthday. She decided to shed an unwanted 22 pounds before she turned 50 and succeeded.
Victoria warns, “Unfortunately, many women ‘allow’ themselves to add extra pounds as they get older because they believe it is OK. But don’t fall into this trap. Even women 50 and older can have a beautiful body, and the secret is to take better care of yourself. I don’t have the body I had at 18 years of age, but I am happy with the body I do have and I think I look younger because I manage my weight well.” Eat healthy, drink plenty of water and get exercise at least five days each week to have a healthier mind and body. Victoria also recommends that women highlight their assets and play down those not-so-great-features. For example, long legs can be shown off with shorter skirts, or a long neck can be highlighted with a v-neck shirt. She laughs as she explains, “There is nothing wrong with showing legs or cleavage after 50!” She recommends “Dressing Nifty After Fifty” (Willcott & Corn Books, $15.95) as a great resource to help women dress better for a particular body type and highlight a woman’s most beautiful assets. “This book helped me realize that wearing long skirts and pants was not playing up my most beautiful and youthful assets _ my legs!” IT TAKES MORE THAN ONE All three of these women agree that you must focus on every aspect of your body to look and feel younger. You can’t focus on one area and neglect another. It takes a little more effort to look younger, but it’s worth it when it comes to relationships, intimacy, energy and self-confidence. Once you start taking better care of yourself, highlighting your assets and positively breaking through the age barrier, you will look and feel better. Grandmothers and women over the age of 50 no longer have to look their age, they can look, feel and act younger than ever before. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked on taking better care of you.
MyTurn.com (http://myturn.com) is the online community for moms of adult children and empty nesters. (c) 2011, MyTurn.com. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune News Service.
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Take Control of Your Health... Our mothers have told us all our lives to eat our fruits and veggies because they’re good for us. But did our mothers know exactly why they’re good for us? Now, modern research backs up our moms’ wisdom and explains why berries especiallhy are good for us and why some are considered super berries. The following are the super berries with high antioxidant properties along with vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. And not only are they good for us but they taste great too.
SUPER BERRIES!
Blueberries: The blueberry is an antioxidant powerhouse with high amounts of phytonutrients called anthocyanidins, which aid in neutralizing the damaging substances known as free radicals. According to Agnes M. Rimando, Ph.D., of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Products Utilization Research Center in Oxford, Mississippi, blueberries have potential cholesterol-fighting effects. The fat-fighting compound in blueberries, pterostilbene, has the ability to turn on a switch in cells that breaks down fat and cholesterol. In a study by Tufts University, researchers found that blueberries have the most antioxidant capabilities of any fruit. And The American Institute for Cancer Research says blueberries have substances that can slow the aging process.
Strawberries: A super nutritious fruit jam-packed with minerals and vitamins. Extremely high in antioxidants they also help boost the immune system by combating free radicals. They can improve brain health and help slow down aging. They can also help treat maladies such as constipation, flu and high blood pressure. Additionally they enhance gum health and are good in maintaining low blood sugar levels.
Raspberries: Low in calories and high in fiber. Raspberries are an excellent source of fiber, manganese and vitamin C, vitamin B2, folate, niacin, potassium and copper. In addition, they contain significant amounts of the anti-cancer phytochemical ellagic acid. Some of the fiber is insoluble so it can help keep you regular. And the little seeds in raspberries provide us with good amounts of pectin, the soluble fiber that helps control cholesterol levels.
Vitamin D Can Help Seniors Protect Their Eyesight
A new study shows that a higher intake of Vitamin D can also help seniors protect their eyesight – especially when it comes to halting the progression of macular degeneration. Macular degeneration is a condition that affects older adults and results in a loss of vision in the center of the visual field because of damage to the retina. It’s estimated that more than10 million Americans over fifty have the condition, which can make it difficult or impossible to read or recognize faces, although enough peripheral vision remains to allow other activities of daily life. Now vitamin D may have come to the rescue. The new study, published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, reported that women over seventy who had the highest levels of vitamin D (found in oily fish, eggs, leafy vegetables and dietary supplements) were nearly 60 per cent less likely to contract age-related macular degeneration. The study also concluded that just getting sunlight, another source of vitamin D, is not enough. The reason Vitamin D works: Scientists believe it has anti-inflammatory properties that can help stop the eyes from being damaged. But speak with your doctor first before taking supplements. Ironically, some studies have shown that taking too high a dose of Vitamin D may weaken bones.
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Cranberries: Add cranberries to the list of important cancerfighting berries due to their concentration of anthocyanins, proanthocyanins and flavonoids. The cranberry helps our urinary tract in addition to maintaining heart health. Another benefit of the cranberry is the tannins in them which may help to inhibit Helicobacter pylori bacterium. Scientists discovered that this bacterium is responsible for gastrointestinal diseases including gastric, duodenal and peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer.
Blackberries: Another form of powerful antioxidants is found in the blackberry. High in ellagic acid, vitamins C and E which are chronic disease and cancer-fighting compounds, they also contain pectin ,which is linked to lowered levels of cholesterol. Lab studies at Ohio State University show the blackberry’s ability to stop tumor formation in the oral cavity as well as helping to stop the spread of cancer cells. Gooseberries: For skin-related ailments the gooseberry is wonderful, having remarkable curative properties. It allegedly increases alertness and memory. It has about 600 mg more of vitamin C than the average orange. Used for centuries to help with liver disorders, anemia, urinary problems and respiratory and cardiovascular problems, they’re also high in potassium, magnesium, vitamin A and calcium.
Tai Chi Appears to Benefit Quality of Life for Patients With Chronic Heart Failure
Tai chi exercise appears to be associated with improved quality of life, mood and exercise selfefficacy in patients with chronic heart failure, according to a report in the April 25 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. For more Tai Chi visit www.taoist.org The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
WIC CAN OFFER YOU AND YOUR FAMILY: • Healthy foods • Health care referrals
• Nutrition information • Breastfeeding support
Call your local health department or 1.888.942.4673
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CLEAN FOOD
Food used to be simple. You ate what you grew on the land or bought from nearby farmers. Today, food is much more complicated _ and we're both better and worse off for it. We can eat a greater variety of healthy foods than our ancestors did (think fresh berries in winter), but we also can eat a lot more highly processed, chemical-laden ones. But an increasing trend toward clean eating, with its emphasis on whole, fresh, traditional fare, could mark a turning point in our sometimes-dysfunctional relationship with food and help us achieve good health, culinary satisfaction and optimal fitness.
To help you clean up your own diet and reap the benefits, Prevention magazine compiled a few simple rules. Start taking baby steps to adjust your diet, and you'll be eating clean in no time.
Focus on favorite foods.
To keep it simple, assess what part of your diet supplies the most calories. If you're an omnivore, buy meat that comes from grass-fed cattle and eggs from pasture-raised chickens, but stick to conventional produce instead of organic. If you're a vegetarian, buying organic produce makes more sense.
Check the labels.
It's the easiest way to distinguish a "clean" food from a highly processed one. Think about it: A head of lettuce has no label (totally natural), while a bag of ranch-flavored corn chips has a dozen or more ingredients (highly processed). Instead of eliminating all
processed foods, study the labels on the packaging and choose those with fewer and simpler ingredients.
Adjust your taste buds.
If you're accustomed to eating food with lots of salt, sugar, fat and other additives, you'll need to retrain your taste buds to appreciate the more subtle flavors of whole foods. For instance, if you don't immediately like the taste of brown rice, mix it with white (in decreasing amounts) until you adapt. It works for salty and fatty foods, too. Instead of switching immediately to, say, low-sodium soups, mix a regular can with a low-sodium version and adjust the ratio toward less sodium as you get used to the flavor. It can take up to 12 weeks to adjust. (c) 2011, Prevention magazine
Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support Group,
Tuesday, May 10th, 5:30 Frazer United Methodist Church, Room 8114, 6000 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery AL. Enjoy fun and fellowship with your breast cancer “sisters” and friends!
The program will be: ‘Life’s Journey’ presented by Annie Franklin, Women of Hope Member
For information please call 334-220-4599 or email womenofhope@charter.net. Our goal is to make sure that all women AND men are educated about breast cancer and the effects it has on family and friends. Hope is the assurance that one day we will be able to live cancer free! Your support is greatly appreciated and helps so many deserving breast cancer patients and survivors including their families. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support Group meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month (Jan-Nov). Meetings are held at 5:30 p.m.
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Failure: Not an Option!
When you think of failure, what comes to mind? For some, it means low self-worth. For others, it means missed opportunities. And still others, it means you just have to work harder. Failure is a part of life and while it’s not something you want to experience all the time, you will inevitably face it sometime. The question to ask is, are you afraid of failing? Do you cringe at the thought of trying something new for fear that you may fail at it? Do you often take the easy way out, so you don’t have to step out of your comfort zone? Do new challenges create anxiety and apprehension and keep you from following through? To avoid disillusionment and disappointment when things don’t work out, here are a few tips to follow: 1. Creativity, flexibility, openness and the ability to stick with things when the
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going gets tough are the essential factors that promote success. 2. Know that if one path isn’t working, there are other paths to take. 3. Tell yourself that mistakes and setbacks are learning tools and often opportunities to grow.
4. Believe that no matter what the outcome, you are a better person for having had the experience. Therefore, stop worrying about failing, and take the risk that you can actually succeed. Why? Because you’ll find that the learning and growing process involved in trying something new is quite satisfying. In fact, there’s a thrill in discovering unexplored avenues and an incentive to work harder so that you ultimately do achieve. Just remember this – the brightest, most
By Amy Sherman
talented and even most successful people sometimes feel like failures in certain areas. After all, their lives can be tough at times, and misfortunes do befall them. Ask any actor who’s had a “public breakup” and feels weak and vulnerable. They get through it and so will you conquer your adversity. Just remember to stay optimistic and to always move towards your realistic goal. That strategy is the secret behind most accomplished people.
So, if you’re feeling like a failure, realize that you are only a failure if you define it that way. Rather, consider your setback as a lesson and move beyond what you think is impossible, to the idea that anything is possible. There is a way to your success and you will find it if you keep hopeful, motivated and determined. Amy Sherman is a licensed mental health counselor and trainer. (c) 2011, Basil & Spice, Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
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12 Expressions You Can Teach Your Grandkids
D
oes every cloud really have a silver lining? What’s wrong with being wet behind the ears? And why don’t you want to be on the wrong side of the tracks? Most of us don’t give a second thought to sayings we’ve used for years, but they’re new, and confusing, to many kids.
Why do we say the things we do? Following are the often surprising stories behind a dozen common sayings. Read along, and the next time a grandchild asks who the Joneses are and why they need to keep up with them, you’ll have the answer.
KEEP YOUR EAR TO THE GROUND Kids who’ve seen old Western movies may have an idea where this saying comes from. During battles between soldiers and Native Americans in the 19th century, combatants would literally put their ears to the ground to see if they could hear enemy hoofbeats approaching. Today someone with their ear to the ground is looking for signs of what may happen in the near future.
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WET BEHIND THE EARS This idiom wouldn’t sound so unusual to kids who grew up on a farm. When a baby colt or calf is born, it is wet with birth fluid, like a human child, but the areas behind its ears stay wet the longest. Scholars believe this expression moved from the farm to the battlefield as a way for soldiers to describe new recruits. NITTY-GRITTY If you’re paying attention to the essential, core elements of a problem, then you’re properly focused on the nitty-gritty, as per this expression which became popular in African-American communities in the mid20th century. “Grit” refers to tiny grains of rock or sand, or the basic and necessary elements of any situation. ACHILLES’ HEEL In the epic Greek poem The Iliad, we meet the great warrior Achilles. When he was a baby, Achilles’ mother dipped him in the magical River Styx, so that he could never be harmed. But the heel from which she held him did not go in the water, and years
later that is precisely where an enemy archer shot and killed him with a poisoned arrow. Today an Achilles’ heel is a person’s inescapable flaw.
EVERY CLOUD HAS A SILVER LINING The great English poet John Milton coined this phrase in a 1634 work. He was describing the way sunlight can shine around the edges of a dark cloud. Today we use the saying to make the point that we can take something good from even the toughest situations.
BARK UP THE WRONG TREE Hunters helped introduce this saying into common conversation. During colonial times, trained dogs would aid hunters by chasing raccoons up a tree, then standing at the trunks and barking until their masters came along for the kill. But when the prey was able to leap to the next tree, the dog was left, yes, barking up the wrong tree. Today we say the same thing about someone whose attention or anger is misdirected. SALT OF THE EARTH
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Today doctors worry that our diets are too full of cheap added salt, but centuries ago, salt was one of the world’s most prized commodities. Similarly, the phrase “salt of the earth,” which is found in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, has long been used to describe people who are considered to be the finest of their crowd.
CHIP ON YOUR SHOULDER You think kids play silly or dangerous games today? In the early 19th century, a boy with nothing better to do would put a wood chip or stone on his shoulder, then dare another boy to knock it off. If the other boy did, then the two boys would fight. Today, the phrase refers to someone who’s itching for a fight or just carrying a lot of anger on his or her shoulders. KEEP UP WITH THE JONESES This expression was the title of a oncepopular newspaper comic strip that kicked off in 1913. The strip was about a young couple starting their lives together and the misadventures they had trying to keep up with their peers. Today this expression is usually used critically, to describe people who are overly concerned with the latest trends, or envious of what their friends have.
RED-LETTER DAY Happy occasions have always been with us, but red-letter days date back to medieval times, when early printed church calendars marked important festivals in red ink.
WRONG SIDE OF THE TRACKS Many a grandparent grew up on the wrong side of the tracks, but hopes for a more comfortable life for the next generation. This saying comes from the early days of railroad travel in the mid-1800s, when train tracks often divided towns into rich and poor sections, the latter typically being the side of the tracks where smoke engine blew. THROW IN THE TOWEL This expression comes to us from the boxing ring. In 19th century Britain, when a fighter was being pummeled with no chance of recovery, his manager would throw a towel into the ring to signal surrender. Today it retains its meaning of admitting defeat. (c) 2011, Grandparents.com. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
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Healthy Hearing
by Dr. Bettie Borton Au.D. bchampion1@aol.com
Know Before You MOW! Montgomery’s Indie Theatre What’s Showing in May April 29 - May 5 Biutiful 148mins Fri & Sat: 7:00 only Sun Thurs: 7:30 only NO SHOW: Tuesday
May 13 - 18 My Dog Tulip 83mins Fri & Sat: 7:00 & 9:00 Sun Weds: 7:30 only NO SHOW: Thursday
May 03: You Begin This Way 7:00pm
May 19: Beach Blanket Bingo 7:30pm
May 6 - 12 Certified Copy 106mins Fri & Sat: 7:00 & 9:00 Sun Thurs: 7:30 only
May 27 - June 2 Jane Eyre 120mins Fri & Sat: 7:00 & 9:15 3:00 Matinee Saturday & Sunday Sun Thurs: 7:30 only
www.capritheatre.org BETH NIELSEN CHAPMAN TO PERFORM AT CAPRI THEATRE BENEFIT Nashville-based, Montgomery native singersongwriter Beth Nielsen Chapman will headline a benefit concert for the Capri Theatre at the theatre on Saturday, July 2 2011 at 7:00pm. Ms Chapman and her band, along with special guests, will be raising funds for Montgomery’s only independent movie theatre, the non-profit Capri Theatre. Tickets are general admission and are a $40 donation to the Capri Community Film Society. Tickets are on sale now at the Capri Theatre boxoffice, and online at Brown Paper Tickets (http://www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/173037Z). This concert is expected to be well attended, so fans are encouraged to buy tickets early. “We are excited to have Beth returning to Montgomery and the Capri Theatre,” said Capri Board President Jamie Durham. “Her performances are always wonderful and we are thrilled she is helping us save the Capri Theatre.”
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Take care of your hearing health while taking care of your lawn! When springtime rolls around for those of us living in the South, the people, wildlife, and plant life of the world around Dr. Bettie Borton Au. D. us start stirring to welcome the new season. This generally entails turning down the thermostat, getting out and about, and breaking out shorts and sunglasses. And of course, it also means cranking up the lawn mower.
Ah yes, this period of rebirth brings the annual spring and summer ritual of lawn care. We don boots, gloves, hats, and till gardens, plant flowers, and pull weeds. One of the most basic tasks in this series of chores is also the most dangerous to your hearing health – lawn mowing! It’s become such an integral part of our weekly routine during the growing seasons that we forget how great (and negative) an effect a lawn mower can have on hearing. The average volume of a lawnmower while in use is 95 dB, and according to the American Academy of Audiology, any sound louder than 85 dB is considered “potentially hazardous”. While this fact illustrates the potential danger lawn mowing can have on hearing, it does not reflect how damaging prolonged exposure to this excessively loud sound can be. In short, the longer you’re exposed to a loud noise, the more dangerous it becomes. So, sitting on that riding mower for 2 or 3 hours can do plenty of damage.
When exposed to loud, prolonged noise, tiny hair cells in the inner are damaged or destroyed, and can’t be repaired. As a consequence, your ability to understand speech sounds may be permanently altered – and not in positive way! Luckily, your audiologist has a practical solution to keep your hearing intact, while you keep your grass in check – custom earplugs. These custom made devices are made to fit your ear exactly, and prevent damaging or prolonged noise from causing
hearing loss. Custom noise protection plugs are made specifically for your ears’ particular shape, and can reduce the discomfort and poor fit often associated with standard foam or rubber plugs. They are safer for long term use than foam or rubber plugs since they aren’t placed as deeply in the ear canal, and are gentler on your ears’ sensitive skin. People working in construction or industrial environments, musicians, or anyone exposed to loud noises are perfect candidates for custom ear plugs.
Talk to your audiologist today to find out how custom noise protection devices can be safe, comfortable, and affordable. They are a low cost, long-term solution to combating excessive noise levels from yard equipment such as mowers, blowers, drills, saws, and the like. Be sure to tell your hearing healthcare professional exactly what type of noise you will be exposed to, and for how long. They can select devices that will provide all the protection you need, no matter how long you will be exposed to the noise. Asking your teens to do yard work? Having younger children help you while mowers are in use? Be sure their hearing is adequately protected as well. As I drive through my neighborhood, I frequently see Dad mowing the yard on a riding mower, letting his toddler or young child sit on his lap – and neither one of them is using ear protection. This is an exceptionally dangerous thing for a child’s hearing, and puts them at risk for noise induced hearing loss. Using effective noise protection will ensure that you and your family can spend less time worrying about hearing health and more time maintaining and enjoying your backyard oasis. To learn more, visit doctorshearingclinic.com or call for an evaluation at (334) 396-1635. Dr. Bettie B. Borton is a licensed audiologist in Alabama, was the first board certified audiologist in Montgomery, and recently served as National Chair of the American Board of Audiology. She and her husband, Dr. Tom Borton, are the only audiologists with ABA certification in the Montgomery area.
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The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. At Relay, teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Because cancer never sleeps, Relays are overnight events up to 24 hours in length.
Plan to Attend For more information about Relay For Life, visit www.relayforlife.org/montgomery
Faulkner University, Friday, May 6, 2011, 6:00 p.m. - 6:00 a.m.
Although every Relay For Life is different, there are certain traditions at all Relays, no matter where they are held. These traditions help participants celebrate, remember, and fight back. Celebrate - The Survivors Lap Relay starts with a Survivors Lap an inspirational time when survivors are invited to circle the track together and help everyone celebrate the victories we’ve achieved over cancer. The Survivors Lap is an emotional example of how Relay participants are creating a world with more birthdays like those of each individual on the track.
Remember - The Luminaria Ceremony After dark, we honor people who have been touched by cancer and remember loved ones lost to the disease during the Luminaria Ceremony. Candles are lit inside bags filled with sand, each one bearing the name of a person touched by cancer, and participants often walk a lap in silence.
Fight Back - The Fight Back Ceremony Last, there is a Fight Back Ceremony, where we make a personal commitment to save lives by taking up the fight against cancer. No matter where you are, there’s a place for you at Relay and you can make a difference today by signing up online to start your own team or by simply making a donation. Thanks to Relay participants, we are creating a world with more birthdays a world where cancer can’t claim another year of anyone’s life. The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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By Catherine Johnston and Rebecca Nappi
EndNotes: Answers to questions about illness, death and grief Q: How can we help our sister who has rheumatoid arthritis? She needs meals brought in when her illness flares up and sometimes help with housework and other chores. We are a generous but disorganized family! What could we do?
A: Often we ask people what they need and how we can help. These general questions are asked out of concern and a genuine desire to assist. Yet, it is difficult to answer, “Please come over and scrub my toilet, walk the dog and trim the rhododendrons,” when that is exactly what we need.
Daily tasks can become extremely challenging for a person and their families when a chronic disease flares up, a health crisis hits or when a caregiver’s work leads to exhaustion. According to Health and Human Services’ National Survey of Families and Households, 52 million informal and family caregivers provide care to someone age 20 or older who is ill or disabled. First, talk with your sister. Make a list and discuss each aspect of her daily routine. Maybe dinners on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays would be enough to offset her fatigue. Or maybe she enjoys making her own simple meals, but vacuuming and laundry leave her joints aching. Get very specific information before you make any plans. One website with an intuitive calendar – www.lotsahelpinghands.com – can assist with naming tasks, updating friends on a person’s medical status and allowing people to schedule themselves for needed help. The website uses a personal calendar for coordinating volunteers from a person’s many “circles of community.” And personal needs are logged in: Rover needs to get to the vet for his shots. Who can drive? The system sends reminders to volunteers so no one forgets their commitments.
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Here’s how it works: On the website go to “create a community” where you will be asked to name your group, such as Mary’s Hometown Helpers. Follow the prompts. Then invite people to sign on as part of Mary’s Hometown Helpers. People must be “accepted” as part of the community _ just like on Facebook. This screen protects privacy and gives access only to the people you want to join.
death, she revisits their favorite places. Her grown children were worried about their mother’s grief, but a grief therapist said this response was normal _ for CarolLynn. On the other end of the spectrum, some widows and widowers marry again within a year, despite the conventional wisdom that says the widowed shouldn’t make any major changes for at least a year.
Q: My friend lost her husband about
“Your grief is as personal and unique as your fingerprint; no one else will have the same bereavement experience as you and there is not one ‘correct’ way to respond to loss,” according to Therese A. Rando, founder of the Institute for the Study and Treatment of Loss in Rhode Island. “There are literally 37 sets of factors that influence any individual’s grief.”
Our lives are fast-paced, yet our hearts are willing to care for each other. With a Web-based tool, even a disorganized family can offer meaningful gestures that make a difference. a year ago, and though she’s been sad at times, she doesn’t seem to be going through many of Elisabeth KublerRoss’ famous stages of grief. She returned to work almost right away and has traveled with friends.
I’m worried that one day, she’ll collapse from unprocessed grief. When I asked her about it, she said, “This is just how I’m dealing with it.” Should I be worried?
A: Not necessarily. A recent New Yorker article shed new light on the “staging” theory of grief. It pointed out that Kubler-Ross used those stages _ denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance _ to describe dying people, not necessarily the grief process for survivors. Modern grief researchers are acknowledging that grief is more complex than believed and individuals will grieve in their own manner, in their own time.
Some will hold onto their grief in ways that worry others. Rebecca’s sister, CarolLynn, lost her husband suddenly when she was just 45. Though this happened 18 years ago, CarolLynn would never consider remarriage, because she vowed to remain true to Adam to her dying day. She frequently visits his gravesite, and on the anniversary of his
In “A Widow’s Story,” Joyce Carol Oates wrote a very moving account about her acute grief, after suddenly losing her husband of 48 years. Yet just a year after her husband’s death, she remarried.
The person grieving is the best judge of what’s appropriate. If grief goes completely underground in a person, it might eventually surface in the form of clinical depression. Then you can get involved. But the best thing you can do now is listen – if and when your friend wishes to talk about the loss of her husband. ___
Catherine Johnston, a health care professional, and Rebecca Nappi, a newspaper journalist, welcome your questions about what to do in times of illness, dying, death and grief. Contact them through their EndNotes blog at spokesman.com/blogs/endnotes. (c) 2011, The Spokesman-Review (Spokane, Wash.) Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
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John Ed Mathison
Resurrection Roll Call Christians worship on Sunday, the first day of the week, because Jesus rose from the dead on the first day of the week. The change from Saturday to Sunday was intended to make every Sunday a little Easter – a little resurrection. When I was at Frazer we would open the worship service with “He is risen.” The congregation would reply, “He is risen indeed.”
Some people refer to the Sunday after Easter as “low Sunday.” When Easter is real, it ought to be a high Sunday because it is the first celebration of the people of God following the Easter resurrection celebration. In John 20:19, the disciples were meeting together on Easter evening. I guess it could be called the first Sunday worship service. There was a resurrection roll call and all the disciples were present – except one. Verse 24 says that Thomas was not with them.
I wonder why Thomas wasn’t there. I am sure he had a good excuse – at least in his own eyes. Maybe there was a special TV program he wanted to see, or a ballgame, or company was coming to visit, or he had planned to relax at his lake house after the last few stressful days – the line of excuses could go on and on. He wasn’t there. Look what Thomas missed! 1. He missed the presence of Jesus of Christ. Verse 19 says, “Jesus came in their mist.” Jesus appeared to them. A special appearance of Jesus to an individual would be missed if that person is absent. 2. Thomas missed the proof of the resurrection that Jesus wanted
to show them. Verse 20 says, “He showed them His hands.” While there were so many rumors circulating about whether or not He had risen from the dead, Jesus was there and He was showing them His hands. This was proof of what He had done.
3. Thomas missed his peace. In verse 21 Jesus said, “Peace be with you.” The Bible indicates that the disciples were afraid. They were frustrated and anxious. They didn’t know about their future. Here Jesus appeared to them and offered them His peace. In today’s world one of the greatest things that people desire is peace of mind. Thomas missed it because he was absent. 4. Thomas missed out on the plan that Jesus had. In verse 21 He said, “I also send you.” The plan of Jesus was to send His people out to verify that He was risen. They had a story to tell. They had a message to give. Thomas missed hearing that. That is still God’s plan today. God’s plan is very simple – He is sending you and me to share the Good News. 5. He missed the power of God’s Holy Spirit. In verse 22 Jesus said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” In their situation of fear, anxiety, and weakness, Jesus offered to them the greatest power they could receive – the power of the Holy Spirit. Thomas missed that.
Look what Thomas missed! He didn’t answer the resurrection roll call, and he was the one who missed out. Any time we miss worship, we will miss out on something special. Measure any excuse for missing worship against the possibilities of what Thomas could have received. Don’t miss out! Resurrection roll call – “Here.” John Ed Mathison www.johnedmathison.org
Still asking what you can do for your country? There’s another place where you can share your wealth of experience.
800.424.8580 www.peacecorps.gov
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Life is calling. How far will you go?
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Boomers Won’t Go...Contest
Most Baby Boomers probably don’t know who Bruno Mars is and could care less that he is headlining this year’s Jubilee Cityfest. If you have granddaughters, ask them who he is and you’ll find out real quick he’s a tween and teen sensation. Recently a Boomer associate sent me a music video of Bruno Mars performing one of his hits, The Lazy Song, with a group of monkey masked back-up singers. It’s a fun video and easy to dance to, check it out for yourself.
If you’re a Boomer who wants to go see Bruno Mars perform, BOOM! wants to give you a pair of tickets! Drop an email to jim@riverregionboom.com with your contact information and a brief explanation why you want to see Bruno...maybe you want to treat your granddaughter, have a special datenight with the wife of 30 years, or maybe you just appreciate good music! Remember, there will be a big fireworks show following the concert so the evening will have something for everyone! Winners will be announced May 17th. Everyone’s eligible, enter as often as you want! Auburn Montgomery’s Graduate Programs Ranked Among Nation’s Best
Auburn University at Montgomery has some of the highest-ranking graduate programs in the nation, according to the 2012 edition of the U.S. News Media Group’s “Best Graduate Schools.” The publication ranks Auburn Montgomery’s Master’s in Public Administration (M.P.A.) program 80th in the nation and its part-time Master’s in Business Administration (M.B.A.) program as 82nd. The only other program to rank in the River Region was Faulkner University’s law school, which was listed in the second tier. Auburn Montgomery’s part-time M.B.A.program was the top in the state, coming in above the University of Alabama-Birmingham, which ranked 105th, and the University of Alabama-Huntsville, ranked 138th. The university’s M.P.A. program tied for 80th with several big-name colleges, including the College of William and Mary and the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. It outranked numerous prestigious universities, including Pepperdine and Northeastern universities, which tied for 90th, and the University of Alabama, which came in at 100th.
Established in 1967 as Auburn University’s metropolitan campus, AUM is known for its graduate programs – which are both prestigious in rank and convenient for students, offering many classes and entire programs online. The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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May 2011
{12 Things} for active boomers and beyond
MONTGOMERY
Moonlight and Magnolias Much Ado About Nothing Julius Caeser Through May 29
The 2011 Spring Repertory season at the
Alabama Shakespeare
Festival will include Ron Hutchinson’s comedy
Moonlight and Magnolias
and Shakespeare’s Much Ado about Nothing and Julius Caesar. Three “Extreme Weekends” are
available where all three shows can be seen in
the same weekend on April 30 – May 1, May 7-8, and May 21 – 22.Alabama Shakespeare Festival
box office, on line at www.asf.net or by phone at 1.800.841.4273.
Blount Cultural Park between 10:00 a.m. and
event will be held May 7 in front of Wetumpka
Montgomery Humane Shelter), Artists’ Avenue,
related items made by Master Gardeners -- styl-
4:00 p.m. Flimp Festival activities include the Do Dah Parade of Pets (held in association with the the Art Making Tent, Art Cars, Kite Flying and
the Museum’s puppet show for pre-schoolers,
“Shape Up Little Schmoozie”. Specialty foods and entertainment are also offered throughout the day. Call 334.244.5700
MONTGOMERY
Old Alabama Town Herb Society Presents HERB DAY 2011 Saturday, May 7, 8-3 pm Herb Day 2011 set for May 7 at Old Alabama
Town Old Alabama Town Herb Society
SEASIDE
23rd Annual ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival Friday-Saturday, May 6-8, 2011, Downtown Seaside, Florida 130 international artists exhibiting in over a
dozen mediums will fill
downtown Seaside, FL for two and a half days, along
with great live music, artist workshops, KidZone and
fabulous food & beverage options provided by
the Merchants of Seaside! www.culturalartsassociation.com
MONTGOMERY
Flimp Festival, Montgomery Museum of Art, Blount Cultural Park Saturday, May 7, 10-2 pm Often characterized as “The Museum’s Gift to
the Community,” the Flimp Festival is held each year on the first Saturday in May. The celebration of art, creativity, imagination and humor
takes place on the Museum’s grounds within the
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Presents HERB DAY 2011 May 7th 8
a.m. until 3 p.m. Old
Alabama Town Complex-LIVING BLOCK, 301
Columbus Street Montgomery, AL . “Giddy-Up Horseradish” Selected Herb of the Year, Herbs
for Health with Elsie Hilton, Container Gardening with Jane McCarthy, Cooking with Herbs
with Earth Fare. Programs, Vendors, Children’s
Activities and Master Gardeners on Hand. Tour
Flea Market & Antiques, 5266 U.S. Hwy. 231. Sale hours are 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Handcrafted garden
ish additions to any garden -- will also be on sale. The sale is also an opportunity to buy a special
gift for Mother’s Day. Shoppers never know what they’re going to find at the plant sale and that’s
part of the fun. They might discover just the plant they’ve wanted or perhaps some great vegetable starts for this year’s garden. It’s also a real
community event, with opportunities to make
new friends and run into old ones. The plant sale has become something people look forward to every spring. For further information, call the
Wetumpka Extension office at 334-567-6301.
CLOVERDALE
Beach Blanket Bingo (1965) Capri Theatre Thursday, May 19, 7:30 pm Hey Boomers, grab some friends and relive some teenage memories. The In the
fourth of the highly successful
Frankie and Annette beach party
movies, a motorcycle gang led by Eric Von Zipper kidnaps singing
star Sugar Kane managed by Bul-
the Mother Garden and pocket gardens-Scented,
lets, who hires sky-diving surfers Steve and Bon-
oldalabamatown.com for directions
www.capritheatre.org
Children’s, Dye and Doctor’s gardens –with
garden guides. ADMISSION FREE Visit www.
WETUMPKA
Central Alabama Master Gardeners (CAMGA) Plant Sale Saturday, May 7, 8-1 pm Bargain plants and more
nie from Big Drop for a publicity stunt. With the
usual gang of kids and a mermaid named Lorelei.
MONTGOMERY
Jubilee CityFest Bama Big Bang, Bruno Mars, Fireworks Display Friday, May 20, 6-11 pm
await shoppers at the
New for 2011, Jubilee City-
(CAMGA) Plant Sale. The
spectacular, to be held on
annual Central Alabama Master Gardeners
Fest will produce Bama’s Big Bang, a pyro music
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Friday, May 20th. The fireworks spectacular will
at Montgomery has set
Jubilee CityFest, one of Alabama’s longest run-
Luau. The event will be
follow the Bruno Mars along with Janelle Monae and the Hooligans in Wondaland Tour concert.
ning festivals, is presented by Creek Casinos. For
more information and tickets, please visit http:// www.JubileeCityFest.org.
Jubilee Brewfast Saturday, May 21, 7-10 pm The 2nd annual Jubilee BrewFest is arriving to
the Montgomery riverfront on May 21st, 2011. The exciting event is returning for it’s second
year to the Montgomery
Riverfront Train Shed, and
will feature all the exciting elements that made last
years event a hit. Sample
beer from around the world and enjoy the best of Montgomery food to satisfy your appetite.
Food vendors will be on site to provide reasonably priced food from $3.00 - $6.00. For more
information and tickets, please visit http://www. JubileeCityFest.org.
GULF SHORES
Hangout Music Festival Friday-Sunday, May 20-22 Hangout Music Festival is the first and only
festival of its kind. Located in beautiful Gulf Shores,
the date for its fourth annual School of Education held May 21, 6-11 p.m.,
of Education. Activities will include: * Live
music and dancing. Back by popular demand,
Birmingham rock band “Total A$$et$” will entertain the crowd with party favorites like “Brown Eyed Girl” and “Brick House.” Don’t know how to bust a move? An instructor will be on hand
to teach swing and ballroom dancing moves. *
Casting lessons on Lake Martin, provided by the AUM Fishing Club * Outdoor games like ladder
golf and horse shoes * Photo opportunities with legendary Auburn football coach Pat Dye, birds of prey from the Southeastern Raptor Center
and AU mascot Aubie * Dining on island cuisine, dished up by Ursula’s Catering and served by
education scholarship recipients. Tropical drinks and concoctions will be available for purchase at a cash bar. * Bidding on one-of-a-kind items, in-
cluding photographs signed by Heisman Trophy
winners Cam Newton and Mark Ingram, in silent and live auctions. For more information on the
Luau or to purchase tickets, call 334-244-3413 or visit www.aum.edu/luau2011
MONTGOMERY
with stages located
concert on Friday, May 27th, to kick off the Jubi-
The Montgomery Symphony will perform a free
sandy beaches with
presented on the steps of the Alabama Archives
out features today’s top rock ‘n roll and
contemporary artists in an idyllic sun-soaked
lee weekend. The free outdoor concert will be and History Building in
friends and family. Picnic
body and spirit rejuvenation on the beach.
night, May 28th, at 7:00 pm in the same location.
LAKE MARTIN
Luau benefitting AUM School of Education Saturday - May 21, 6-11 pm Get your grass skirts and flower leis ready to
shimmy and shake, because Auburn University The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
the Alabama River in May,
when hundreds of partici-
pants from all over the country will compete on the water for a cash prize of $13,000. The race,
set for May 28-29 is one of personal watercraft racing’s most prestigious events and will be televised nationally on ESPNU.
BIRMINGHAM
Vietnam War Helicopters Exhibit and Diorama Southern Museum of Flight Tuesday – Saturday, 9:30-4:30 pm The Southern Museum of Flight Vietnam War Helicopters Exhibit and Diorama. The new
exhibition depicts a true story of American heroism within Troop C, 16th Cavalry Regiment and stands as a tribute to all who sacrificed in the
Vietnam War. The Southern Museum of Flight
is dedicated to presenting civilian, military, and
experimental aircraft and memorabilia from the earliest history of powered flight. The 68,000
square foot facility houses over 75 aircraft, as
well as engines, models, artifacts, photographs,
and paintings. Notable aircraft on display include a Wright Flyer, a Curtis Pusher, a WWII Fokker
D-VII, an Alexander Eaglerock once owned by the first deaf pilot, WWII trainers, an F4 “Phantom” jet, Soviet built MiGs, an A12 “Blackbird” spy
plane, the “Lake Murray” B-25 Bomber, and a
vast array of experimental aircraft.
Come early and bring your
baskets, coolers, lawn chairs, and blankets are
their favorite bands while experiencing mind,
Open of Watercross on
downtown Montgomery.
setting. No other location allows music fans the opportunity to hear three consecutive days of
will host the Toyota U.S.
scholarships and special programs in the School
musical lineup
ocean views. Hang-
The city of Montgomery
Lake Martin. Tickets are $75 and proceeds fund
Free Jubilee Pops Concert Friday, May 27, 7 pm
directly on white
Toyota U.S. Open of Watercross (Jetskis) Saturday/Sunday, May 28, 7 am, May 29, 5 pm
at Children’s Harbor on
Alabama, Hangout
features an eclectic
MONTGOMERY
all welcome at this free concert. In the event of rain, the concert will be held on Saturday
The concert is generously sponsored by the J K
Lowder Family Foundation. For more informa-
tion, contact the Symphony at 334-240-4004 or montgomerysymphony@gmail.com.
Featured on
display at the
Southern Museum of Flight is a diorama exhibit honoring Alabama’s famed Tuskegee Airmen. A state-of-the-art theater with surround sound,
realistic flight simulators, tours, and a children’s “Little Pilots Room” are also available. For more information, please call 205-833-8226 or email southernmuseumofflight@yahoo.com. www. southernmuseumofflight.org
Please submit any events/pictures to jim@riverregionboom.com
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LOL
BOOMER & BEYOND HUMOR
Laugh Out Loud A woman on the phone to her friend; I feel like my body has gotten totally out of shape, so I got my doctor’s permission to join a fitness club and start exercising…. I decided to take an aerobics class for seniors. I bent, twisted, gyrated, jumped up and down, and perspired for an hour. But, by the time I got my leotards on, the class was over. A man came home and was greeted by his wife dressed in a very sexy nightie. ‘Tie me up,’ she purred, ‘and you can do anything you want.’ So he tied her up and went golfing.
Three sisters, ages 92, 94, and 96, live together. One night the 96-year0ld draws a bath. She puts one foot in and pauses. “Was I getting in the tub or out?” she yells. The 94-year-old hollers back, “I don’t know, I’ll come up to see.” She starts up the stairs and stops. She shouts, “Was I going up or going down?”
The 92-year-old is sitting at the kitchen table having tea, listening to her sisters. She shakes her head and says, “I sure hope I never get that forgetful”, and knocks on wood for good measure. Then she yells, “I’ll come up and help both of you as soon as I see who’s at the door.”
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Two elderly couples were enjoying friendly conversation when one of the men asked the other,” Fred, how was the memory clinic you went to last month?” “Outstanding,” Fred replied. “They taught us all the latest psychological techniques: visualization, association, etc. It was great.” “That’s great! And what was the name of the clinic?” Fred went blank. He thought and thought, but couldn’t remember. Then a smile broke across his face and he asked, “What do you call that flower with the long stem and thorns?” “You mean a rose?” “Yes, that’s it!” He turned to his wife, “Rose, what was the name of that memory clinic?”
An old man walks into a bar, sits down, and starts crying. The bartender asks, “What’s wrong?” The old man looks at the bartender through Teary eyes and between sobs says, “I married a beautiful woman two days ago. She’s a natural blonde, twenty-five, intelligent, a marvelous cook, a meticulous housekeeper, extremely sensitive to my wants and needs, very giving, my best friend, and intensely passionate in bed.” The bartender stares at the old man for a brief moment and says, “But that sounds great! You have what every man wants in a woman, so why are crying?” The old man looks at the bartender and says, “I can’t remember where I live!”
One reason the Military Services have trouble operating jointly is that they don’t speak the same language. For example, if you told Navy personnel to “secure a building,” they would turn off the lights and lock the doors. The Army would occupy the building so no one could enter. Marines would assault the building, capture it, and defend it with suppressive fire and close combat. The Air Force, on the other hand, would take out a three-year lease with an option to buy. The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine