Contents November 2024
Jest a Moment: Take a Hike!
Christchurch
Publisher’s Letter
Carrying on Our Father's Legacy
Founder
Jim Watson (1950-2024)
Publisher
Jason Watson
334.328.5189 cell/text jason@riverregionboom.com
Editor
DeAnne Watson
334.462.0225 cell/text
Contributing Writers
Jeff Barganier
Tracy Bhalla
Greg Budell
Joanne Cleaver
Jamie Goll
Claire Jones
Susan Moore
Linda Goor Nanos
John Rampton
Nick Thomas
Cover Photography
Photography by DiAnna Paulk photographybydiannapaulk.com
Advertising
Jason Watson, 334.328.5189 jason@riverregionboom.com
This issue of BOOM! holds a special place in our hearts. My father, Clyde James "Jim" Watson II, who founded BOOM! fifteen years ago, went home to be with his Savior on October 27, 2024. As I write this, I’m reflecting on the vision he held and the remarkable journey he embarked upon to create BOOM!—a magazine dedicated to celebrating the lives, experiences, and dreams of those in their prime years.
Three years after my wife, DeAnne, and I purchased Montgomery Parents (now River Region Parents) from Dad, we began discussing the idea of a lifestyle magazine for the 50+ community. Together, we shaped the layout, cover, and column ideas, but it was clear this would be Dad’s baby. He was 59 at the time, rediscovering what it meant to live fully again after my mother’s passing just a few years earlier. Dad took the reins with passion, convinced BOOM! would resonate deeply in our area. And indeed, 184 issues later, it’s clear he was right.
In publishing, you don’t always hear directly from your readers, but since Dad’s passing, the responses have been overwhelming. His work with BOOM! gave a voice to the seasoned generation, people whose stories, dreams, and insights too often go uncelebrated in a world that can prioritize youth. Dad understood that reaching “over the hill” wasn’t an end, but a new beginning. He built BOOM! as a tribute to that idea, constantly encouraging readers to see these years as an opportunity to reignite old dreams and pursue new ones.
For Dad, life after 50 was a vibrant new chapter, not a closing one. I can still hear him talking about the importance of shaping each issue around inspiring his peers to live life to the fullest, to dream bigger and brighter. Just two days before he passed, he and his wife, Sandy, had returned from a two-week road trip out West—a testament to the way he lived what he preached.
Next month, we’ll feature a special tribute to honor Dad’s life and legacy. As DeAnne and I step into this role, now also in our 50s, we are honored to carry forward his vision. BOOM! will continue to be a space to inspire, to encourage, and to remind all of us that the best years are the ones we’re living right now.
Thank you, Dad, for the legacy you left us and the reminder to keep dreaming.
With gratitude, Jason Watson
Leftover Thanksgiving Sliders
Leftover turkey, cranberry sauce, Dijon and melted cheese on super buttery Hawaiian rolls. Bake and serve warm! SO SO GOOD.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 green onions, thinly sliced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 12-count package KING’S HAWAIIAN Original Hawaiian Sweet Dinner Rolls, halved lengthwise
⅓ cup leftover cranberry sauce
¾ pound leftover turkey, shredded
8 slices Havarti cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
1- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly oil a 9 x 13 baking dish or coat with nonstick spray.
2- In a small bowl, combine Dijon, mayonnaise and green onions; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Spread mixture on top half of dinner rolls; set aside.
3- Place bottom half of dinner rolls onto the prepared baking dish. Top with cranberry sauce, turkey, cheese and top of dinner rolls. Brush tops of dinner rolls with butter; sprinkle with poppy seeds.
4- Place into oven and bake until golden brown and toasted, about 15-18 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes. Serve warm.
Source: https://damndelicious.net/2019/11/30/leftoverthanksgiving-sliders/
Do You Need a Personal Travel Advisor This Holiday Season?
Yes, Travel Agents, Travel Advisor's or Travel Planners, STILL EXIST! In fact, you need one now more than ever since the internet has made it extra confusing with too many cruise and resort options and booking engines! When you google "All inclusive resorts" you get 1,500 results! That's why you need the help of a professional to help you book and make sure you get the most value for your travel dollars!
Choosing to work with me as your Travel Advisor comes with a range of benefits that can transform your travel planning experience and ensure you have the most enjoyable travel adventures. Here's just a few ways I elevate your vacation/travel planning experience!
I possess a wealth of knowledge various destinations and travel trends. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical getaway, a cultural exploration, or an adventurous expedition, I can provide insightful recommendations and information tailored to your preferences.
I personalize your experience taking the time to understand your unique travel preferences, interests, and budget. This allows me to create customized itineraries that align perfectly with your expectations and desires. Every detail, from accommodations to activities, is meticulously planned to ensure a unique and seamless experience.
I save you time! Planning travel can be daunting and time-consuming, with countless options to sift through. By choosing me as
ADVENT & CHRISTMAS PLEASE JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE
1st Sunday of Advent
Service with Holy Eucharist † 9:30 am, December 1
Service of Lessons and Carols
Service with music and readings † 6:30 pm, December 5
Champagne reception to follow ($25, available at the door)
2nd Sunday of Advent
Service with Holy Eucharist † 9:30 am, December 8
3rd Sunday of Advent
Service with Holy Eucharist † 9:30 am, December 15
4th Sunday of Advent
Service with Holy Eucharist † 9:30 am, December 22
Christmas Eve
Service with Holy Eucharist and Pageant † 4:00 pm Tuesday, December 24
Service with Holy Eucharist and Incense † 7:00 pm Tuesday, December 24
Christmas Day
Service with Holy Eucharist † 11:00 am, Wednesday, December 25
Christ the Lord Returns to Reign!
BOOMers Lose a Leader (and other news)
I was blessed to be featured on the cover of September's BOOM magazine.
In my companion column, I began by praising my dear friend and publisher, Jim Watson. Specifically, I wrote-
"Let me thank BOOM publisher, Mr. Jim Watson. This man and I connected 14 years and 168,000 (give or take) words ago. He's taken this magazine to incredible heights. With great content and savvy distribution, BOOM is the Underdog of magazines- it's everywhere! So, for the next month, almost every place I visit, I'll see myself (for better or worse) looking back from a copy of BOOM, which Jim has made as ubiquitous as the weather. He has Out-Peopled People!
In all my years as a BOOM contributor, you know how many times Mr. Watson has called to say, "You can't write that!"? Zero. These days, it takes guts and gonads to stand behind free speech, and it's great to produce for a man who has your back."
I'm so glad I had the chance to say that to Jim while he was alive. I meant every word of it. I just never thought that it would be a eulogy only weeks later.
My original November column was framed by the election and included an assortment of BOOMer-related news stories. Jim liked the idea! Here is that collection of BOOM news:
The Robotic Finger! I'd bet pretty much every man reading this has had The Finger
Test. It is a dreaded moment in the annual exam but necessary in the prevention of prostate cancer. Facing away from the doc, the patient hears the crisp snap of the rubber glove on the doctor's hand and waits for the moment of violation. It takes but a second. One long second. Now, the day is coming when the physician (who would likely love to forsake his role in the test) can use a robotic finger to do the probing. The BSF (Bio-inspired Finger) will instantly collect data and render a health verdict. It has no attachment to a human (well, other than the patient).
BSF could be good news for women, too. Both sexes endure great discomfort in the name of good health. For women, the BSF could replace the crushing mammogram machine in probing for lumps in breast tissue. Word is it would be far more comfortable. Let's give a hand to new medical technology!
The Mayo Clinic Age Test! The prestigious Mayo says your ability to stand on your non-dominant leg (the one you wouldn't use to kick a soccer ball) for 30 seconds is a reliable indicator of how fast your body is aging. I've been working out steadily for some time now, and this has been no problem for me. If this were some numbnutty stunt born on Tik-Tok, I'd dismiss it. But it's from The Mayo, and they say it's even better if you can do it with your eyes closed.
Sick Days for Sick Pets!
New York is implementing a law that would allow an employee to use personal or sick days to take care of an ailing pet. It's tough enough to leave your beloved pet to work or hit the stores. When they're not well, it's a hundred times harder to
ignore those big, pleading eyes, knowing they don't just want you; they need you. Cold-blooded humans will find this law ridiculous, probably because they don't have a dog or cat. They probably don't have a dog or cat because they know how difficult it is to leave them at home all day!
Don't Rake Leaves! Michigan is the first state to promote sloth in the realm of household chores, telling residents to let the leaves fall where they may and stay, as it's better for your outside ecosystem. For OCD types who insist on a tidy lawn, they suggest leaving the leaves that fall at the bottom of trees in place as they're most "important." I hate when the government tells me what I have to do, but I relish the idea of the government
telling me what I don't have to do. I want the best possible ecosystem around my house (I really don't even know what that means), and if doing nothing about leaves helps, let the laziness begin!
The Body Count! Researchers have determined the "average" person has a body count of 14 (the number of intimate partners accrued). In our never-ending desire to see how we measure up, 25% of study participants wished their number was higher, but 1/3 wished it was lower. The most telling stat was this- 66% said they'd prefer NOT to know the body count of their current partner.
That means two out of three people are still pretty smart.
Christmas Movie Features Male Strippers! Hallmark blew it. I get a kick out of HM's seemingly endless supply
of Christmas corn, but it's Netflix that announces the newest holiday heroes- a group of naughty men who remove their clothes for money. The strippers help save the holiday for a big city girl who travels home to find the family entertainment business in a failing condition. Not my cup of tea, but I love
the shameless hokiness. I just think Hallmark would have produced a more tasteful (and funnier) product.
Mysterious White Blobs Wash Up on Beaches! You're a true BOOMer if "blob" makes you immediately think of Steve McQueen's first starring role. McQueen, by the way, was offered $20,000 to make the cult classic, which he accepted instead of working for a cut of the movie. The decision cost him millions. Meanwhile, Canadian beaches are being populated by doughy blobs that resemble "half-baked bread," according to one local.
I think they're called "tourists."
That's the news. Goodnight Chet. Goodnight David.
Goodbye Jim Watson. With his everlasting inspiration, we'll be making news great (and entertaining) again!
Share your thoughts on my experiences or other comments via email at gregbudell@aol.com. It's always fun to hear from BOOM! readers.
Greg Budell lives in Montgomery with his wife, Roz, and dog, Brisco. He's been in radio since 1970, and has marked 19 years in the River Region. He hosts the Newstalk 93.1FM Morning Show with Rich Thomas, Susan Woody, and Jay Scott, 6-9 AM Monday - Friday. He returns weekday afternoons from 3-6 PM for Happy Hour with, Rosie Brock and a variety of sidekicks. Greg can be reached at gregbudell@aol.com.
Take a Hike! To Skydance Bridge, Oklahoma City
With over 90 miles of trails weaving through the area, Oklahoma City’s numerous parks are a haven for walkers, joggers, and hikers alike. While the green urban spaces invite exploration of the hidden gems and points of interest throughout the city, one must-see landmark for visitors – day or night – is the iconic Skydance Bridge.
Arriving late in the afternoon, we parked on SW Second Street before heading south on foot through Scissortail Park, named after Oklahoma’s state bird – the scissor-tailed flycatcher. Our destination was the 380-foot-long pedestrian Skydance Bridge that spans I-40 and connects the north (40-acre) and south (30-acre) portions of the park. Opened in 2012, the state bird also inspired the bridge’s design with its striking V-shaped steel sculpture towering nearly 200 feet above the walkway, resembling the flycatcher’s distinctive forked tail feathers.
After admiring the bridge, we continued through the park and surrounding area, waiting for sunset since the bridge is especially stunning when lit by LED lights during the evening. But there was no shortage of dazzling sights to fill
the remaining daylight hours, including a walk around a lake with surrounding trees teeming with colorful chirping birds. Rental pedal boats, canoes, and kayaks glided slowly over the water as their occupants absorbed the relaxing view dominated by Oklahoma City’s tallest building. The sleek 50-story Devon Tower, also completed in 2012, is a skyline scene stealer with its reflective glass exterior. The Vast Restaurant occupies the top two floors, offering both meals “sourced from local producers” and spectacular views of the city.
Myriad Botanical Gardens, just a couple of blocks north of the park off Reno Street, was intriguing. Since originally conceived by city leaders in the late 1960s, the 17-acre plot most recently underwent an $11 million renovation in 2022 and features immaculate landscaping, a children’s garden, a restaurant area, fountains, sculptures, and the dazzling Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory encased in a shell of over 3,000 translucent acrylic panels housing an impressive exotic plant collection.
The “Taking Flight: Light as a Feather” art piece, installed 2 years ago at the north end of Scissortail Park, was a delightful surprise find. The 6-ton, 31-foot-tall metal sculpture is the artist’s
vision of a delicately curved feather gently floating earthward. Stunning any time –and especially at night when fiber optic lights illuminate its intricate details – the sculpture truly comes to life just prior to sunset when we happened to walk past. As the sun hung in the darkening sky behind the sculpture, its dying rays filtered through the figure highlighting the steel bars comprising the feather’s ribs, offering an inspiring picture-perfect moment we were lucky to experience. For many visitors, however, the star of Scissortail Park will be the illuminated Skydance Bridge straddling the busy Interstate below. The remotely controlled lights, programmable for holidays and special events, displayed a vibrant, deep
blue glow during our visit, dramatically highlighting the structure’s sweeping design. But the color varies from night to night. When viewed from the bridge’s south end and set against the backdrop of city lights, it was the perfect conclusion to our 2-mile urban nature walk around Oklahoma City.
Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University in Montgomery and has written features, columns, and interviews for many newspapers and magazines. His hiking column describes short trails, hikes, and walks from around the country that seniors might enjoy while traveling. See www.ItsAWonderfulHike.com.
Christchurch Anglican's First Annual
Christmas
Market
We are thrilled to host our First Annual Christmas Market at Christchurch on:
Early Glimpse of Christmas (Party/Shop Early)
Thursday, November 21 - 5PM - 8PM
Tickets are $10, available at the door
General Market:
Friday, November 22 - 9AM - 6 PM
Saturday, November 23 - 9 AM - 6 PM
Sunday, November 24 - 12PM - 4PM
Tickets are $5, available at the door
The idea for the market arose when Rector Andrew Rowell found himself returning from a mission trip to Uganda with a few days layover in Germany. At the very top of Cologne Cathedral, looking down on the city, he saw vendors setting up for the first night of their annual Weihnachtsmarktam (Christmas Market). Later that night, walking around in the chilly November evening with a steaming mug of wassail, he had a vision for a similar experience we might create to bless Montgomery and Pike Road. Not only will all net proceeds go to the mission of our church, but we pray our community will be drawn together for a unique experience of Christmas joy!
By shifting your perspective, you can escape the treadmill of consumerism. When you stop chasing the latest gadgets and trendy clothes, you realize happiness does not come from stuff. You can then spend your money with intention on the things that truly matter.
The first step to spending money with intention is to create a budget that aligns with your values and priorities. Tracking your income and expenses can help you identify areas where you may overspend or where you can cut back to make life more fulfilling.
Another step? Practice mindful spending. This simply means before making any nonessential purchase, consider whether it aligns with your values and if it will enhance the quality of your life.
As a final suggestion, invest in experiences rather than material possessions. Research shows that experiences lead to long-lasting happiness.
Decluttering Your Finances
As with decluttering one’s physical space, minimalism in finance is about decluttering one’s spending. To get you started, here are some strategies:
1) Track your spending. Spend a month tracking your income and expenses to better understand where your money goes. Many budgeting apps are available on the market, or you can make a simple spreadsheet. Whatever you decide, the key is to be honest about your spending habits.
2) Identify unnecessary expenses. Determine where you can cut back on your spending by analyzing your spending. Could you, for example, get rid of Amazon Prime? Besides the annual $139 fee, this could prevent impulsive shopping. To eliminate unnecessary expenses, you must be ruthless.
3) Unsubscribe. This refers to marketing emails and social media accounts that bombard you with offers.
4) Avoid impulse purchases. Think before you buy: “Do I really need this, or am I just
wanting it?” Can I borrow it from a friend, or can I find a cheaper alternative?
5) Embrace free or low-cost entertainment. Instead of expensive nights out, check out free museum days, library events, or outdoor activities.
6) Cook at home more often. Eating out regularly can put a strain on your budget. Take advantage of budget-friendly recipes and enjoy the pleasure of cooking at home.
finances and reduce the mental clutter that comes with managing multiple accounts.
7) Cancel unused subscriptions. Review your subscriptions if you rarely use a service, such as a gym membership or a streaming service.
It’s important to remember that minimalism is not about deprivation. It’s about prioritizing spending on truly valuable things.
Streamlining Your Accounts
Spending isn’t the only cause of financial clutter. Other causes include numerous bank accounts, credit cards, and investment portfolios. As such, whenever possible, consolidate your finances.
Consider having just one checking and one savings account. This will reduce your chances of being charged an overdraft fee and allow you to keep a better eye on your balance.
Do you have multiple credit cards with varying rewards programs? Keep one or two cards that offer the best rewards based on your spending habits and evaluate their benefits. In this way, overspending is reduced, and bill management is simplified.
Review your investment accounts. You may want to consolidate several old 401(k) s into one IRA if you have several from past employers. By doing this, you will be able to manage your investments easier and reduce the paperwork you need. Ultimately, streamlining your accounts will allow you to gain better control over your
Automating Your Finances
If you want to simplify your finances, technology can be your ally. Make your finances run like a well-oiled machine by utilizing the power of automation:
Set up automatic bill payments. You’ll never miss a deadline again, avoiding late fees.
Schedule regular transfers to your savings account. Practicing consistent saving habits will help you achieve your financial goals more quickly.
Automate investments. Set aside a set amount each month for retirement savings or investing. As a result of this “dollar-cost averaging” strategy, market fluctuations are less pronounced.
Overall, due dates and transfers can be easily remembered with automation, eliminating the need for constant vigilance.
Mindful Spending and Saving
Mindful spending and intentional saving are at the core of minimalist finance. In other words, your decisions about your finances should be deliberate, aligned with your values, and based on your goals. To embrace mindful spending, here are some strategies:
Adopt a 30-day rule. Don’t make nonessential purchases before 30 days have
passed. In this cooling-off period, you can determine whether your desire is fleeting or genuine.
Conduct a “Needs vs. Wants” audit. Make sure your purchase meets your needs, not your wants. Needs are essential for survival, while wants are merely desires. Don’t spend on anything other than what you need and what you really want.
Follow the “Cost-per-Use” rule. If you are considering a purchase, calculate the cost per use. If you use a gym frequently, for example, the cost per use might be reasonable. All purchases should be based on this logic.
Embrace delayed gratification. Don’t let instant gratification lure you into making impulsive purchases. Spend less on things you don’t need and save more on things you want. In many cases, achieving a long-term goal is more satisfying than purchasing impulsively.
Prioritize experiences. Invest in experiences like traveling, learning a new skill, or spending time with family. Unlike material possessions that depreciate over time, these experiences create lasting memories and happiness.
According to researchers, people are more satisfied with experiential purchases than material ones—regardless of the measure of happiness used.
“If you want to be happier, it might be wise to shift some of your consumption away from material goods and a bit more toward experiences,” said lead author Amit Kumar. “That would likely lead to greater well-being.”
Living a Richer Life With Less
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to minimalist personal finance. It’s about aligning your finances with what matters to you. But, if you simplify your financial life and spend with intention, you can free up money and mental space to pursue what truly makes you happy.
By John Rampton
Source: www.theeepochtimes.com
By Joanne Cleaver
Put Gifts of Love, Not Things, on a Wish List for Older Adults
Beautiful blooms, favorite foods, practical items and companionship will make their holidays brighter.
They don't want things. They can't enjoy outings.
What do you give older loved ones whose worlds are smaller, slower and lived in the moment?
Scale everything but the love, advises Liz O'Donnell, founder of online community and resources site Working Daughter.
"Give yourself the freedom to rethink the holidays. For so many, the holidays are packed with grief. And the culture is joy, joy, joy," says O'Donnell, who founded the community in 2015. During the holidays, it's death by a thousand gift-paper cuts to cling to expectations that celebrations should continue as they always have.
She's right, as I have learned as I help my own 89-year-old mother choose the few traditions she will continue in her independent living apartment. The white porcelain crèche: yes. A little tree, no. A few iced cookies: yes. Helping with the annual great-grandkids' gingerbreadhouse-making extravaganza: no.
The Gift of Blooming Flowers
One tradition that I started twenty years ago, though, I'll continue. This year is the start of the third decade that I've had a basket of budding bulbs delivered to my mother. The basket arrives in midDecember and by the new year, green
shoots are rocketing up. By early January, grape hyacinth shake their sequined blooms. Then come daffodils and finally the tulips, as each takes its turn in the choreographed bouquet.
"Give yourself the freedom to rethink the holidays."
The bulb basket is one of several ideas that I and others have hit on as perfect gifts for loved ones who no longer want or need things or high-energy experiences. Here's the best of our collective gift-giving wisdom.
For single-shot drama, Davis recommends an amaryllis. These queenly flowers are set on thick stems that emerge from turnip-like bulbs. They need only a sturdy pot and a
little dirt to set up their show. Choose one with several buds already emerging from its new stem and your loved one could have several showy blooms, one after another, for a whole month. "Pick a pink or white one," advises Davis, to forecast spring rather than echo the holiday.
While you're at the nursery, check out their tabletop, live, predecorated Christmas trees. A two-foot tree is perfect for a bedside or coffee table and doesn't inflict a needle hangover. When the holiday is done, plant it outside.
Consider Gifts of Food, Comfort and Practical Items
Food is a favorite consumable, if comes in easily opened packages and in an easyto-use form. Ground coffee in specialty varietals is a perfect stocking stuffer (don't tell my mom!). Less is more, when it comes to richer and more exotic food. Go for smaller containers of fancier food, like imported jam. If your loved one rustles up their own breakfasts, why not make a basket of stepped-up versions of their favorite coffees, jams, syrups and hot chocolate mixes? Install a box of frozen waffles in their freezer and you've set them up for some very pleasant mornings.
Gift cards actually aren't very easy to use for those who don't shop much any more.
Soothing textures meet eroding sense in cashmere socks, cashmere gloves and soft wool throws. Fingerless gloves support a warm, yet firm, grip on canes and walkers.
Set them up to spread their own good cheer with boxes of note cards; stamps; and labels already filled out with addresses of people you know they want to stay in touch with. Boxes of birthday cards with
universally appealing scenery can be found online or at old-school stationery stores and enable those living in communities to celebrate neighbors' birthdays without fussing endlessly at the grocery store card counter.
Some "silver bullet" gifts are actually misfires, warns O'Donnell. Gift cards actually aren't very easy to use for those who don't shop much any more. Sidestep smart-anything technology, which is not as intuitive for those with cognitive issues as Silicon Valley solutions-builders assume. And cosmetics and skin creams are best left to the individual to choose, as it's hard for someone else to discern the textures, colors and formulations that actually
work on aging skin, she says. And "no subscriptions," O'Donnell says, unless you want to take on the chore of canceling it.
When outside excursions are no longer practical, focus instead on activities that can be enjoyed moment by moment, O'Donnell says. Try puzzles designed for people with cognitive decline; large-print playing cards and simple watercolor art. It's the doing that they love, says O'Donnell, and being with those they love.
Finally, says O'Donnell, "Give things that aren't stressful for you." Care for yourself in the process of caring for the ones you love.
Joanne Cleaver is a freelance writer based in Charlotte, N.C. She covers women's issues, travel, entrepreneurship, financial planning and retirement readiness. She has authored seven nonfiction books, the most recent being The Career Lattice: Combat Brain Drain, Improve Company Culture, and Attract Top Talent.
Source: www.nextavenue.org
8am - 8pm, Mon - Fri (Oct 1 - Dec 31: 8am - 8pm, 7 days a
Health complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-888-830-8482 (TTY: 711). 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費 獲得語言援助服務.請致電 1-888-830-8482 (TTY: 711). H0154_mcdoc4189A_M_08/24/2024
Tell Your Friends
BOOM! Available Here and 200 other locations!
Renfroe's Market_Adams Drugs_Sommer's Place_Fresh Market _Tomatino's_MCA Fitness_Vintage Cafe_Derk's_UPS Stores_ Steak Out_Steaks & Wine_The Vintage Olive_Capital City-Ace Hardware_Orange Therapy_Down the Street _Chappy's Deli_Health Wise Foods_Eastbrook Flea Market_John Lee Paints_Home Care Assistance_Doug's 2_Baumhower’s Restaurant_Jan's Beach House_San Marcos_Chris' Hot Dogs_Lek's_SaZas_Mexico Tipico_La Zona Rosa
This GriefShare group is offered for anyone who has lost a loved one. We use the new GriefShare 4.0 video-based curriculum followed by discussion concerning the stages of grief, the storms that come with it, and ways of dealing with loss
Contact BJ Nave below with any questions. EVENT
Frazer Church-East Sanctuary 6000 Atlanta Hwy Montgomery, AL 10:00 AM–12:00 PM Weekly on Wednesday until November 20, 2024
Travel Experiences with Jeff Barganier
Photography provided by Jeff Barganier
Works of Love in Greenville, AL
I recently enjoyed an opportunity to tour St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Greenville, Alabama. A thousand times— since childhood—my eyes have surveyed this beautiful and historic structure. But never had I seen its full glory until member Mary Dearing opened the door and invited me inside. The aroma of old wood wafting from original hardwood floors, pews, and darkbeamed vaulted ceilings all testify to its storied service in this small town of about 7,000.
As we entered, meticulous icons depicting the Stations of the Cross caught my eye. They were all created by local artist Frances Frakes. The Stations of the Cross is a 14-step devotion that commemorates Jesus Christ's last day on Earth as a man, beginning with His
condemnation and ending with His crucifixion. The stations become a mini pilgrimage as the individual moves from one to another. "But look at His hands. All of this little delicate work! When Frances painted, she would roll her fingers with the brush and get a fine, fine, almost living line. How she managed all of this is spectacular. She did not start painting icons until she was in her fifties," Mary said. Frances, soon to be 99, also designed the needlepoint for the kneeling benches and cushions for the altar rail. When Hurricane Ivan took off the roof, Frances painted the roof singles blown off in the storm. These were sold to raise money for a Habitat for Humanity house in Haiti. "We sold about a thousand," Mary said. "Frances loves this church.
"We have very, very talented people," Mary continued, showing me a painting by artist Lucy McGowin. "And we love our wake table. Do you know the history of the wake table?
They're Irish. It was pushed against the wall like this. But at the funeral, they pulled it out. The leaves open up, and you would sit around the table and drink to whoever's on the table. I hope the body was always at least in a box." Mary laughed.
According to its website, www.stthomasgreenville. org, St. Thomas Episcopal had its beginning in 1858 as an Episcopal mission led by Rev. James Jarratt to Lowndes and Butler Counties. Its original church building was completed in 1861. The church struggled through the War Between the States, becoming a self-sustaining parish in 1867—the year Rev. Jarratt died. His remains are actually buried beneath the stunning memorial window of today's structure. Present Rector Rev. Linda Suzanne Borgen told
me, "Every once in a while, the youth group talks me into going down there to let them look at the marker. They call it a 'field trip.'"
As the story goes, Rev. Upton, priest at the time the new church was constructed
in 1896, designed the church. "As we are aware, there was no architect. And they say he literally touched every brick. But how they came up with the idea of using flooring to make the doors was incredible," Mary said. And I agree. These patinaed masterpieces, at least to me, display marvelous symbolism. Their fronts consist of tight-set vertical planks, while the reverse side planks are fastened horizontally. I wonder if the craftsman who made them ever considered how many "old rugged crosses" the doors embrace as each vertical plank is crossed by a horizontal plank, giving each door immeasurable durability. The doors bring a verse to mind: "I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture."
(John 10: 9 KJV)
As Mary and I meandered about, she pointed out other creative art, special memorials and unique architectural antiques throughout the sanctuary. It dawned on me that this church was, of sorts, a work of love filled with works of love, a place of worship filled with special memories and thanksgiving. Indeed, the creativity of St. Thomas families through the years is dispositive of the infinite creative nature of God. As Mary explained, "I did the fourth grade for a long time. When they came in for a tour, I tried to
get them to understand how important families were long ago in churches. If they took pretty much everything out of this church, except the walls and the pews, everything was given by families. Like the Lily Window—Bob Crosby's family. The dollar sign window was a gift from the Herbert family." (At first glance, the first three letters in the Latin word for Christ, transliterated into English, look like a dollar sign.)
"The Rose Window was put in honor of Mr. Billy Blackwell, whose family was very active in the church. Our head deacon, he died at, like, 103. He sat at the very back row every Sunday right here and would count the number of people at service. And (the table) underneath the altar—the Dunklin family gave this. The organ is referred to as
'Miss Mary's organ' because she played the organ. That organ pipe, right there (hanging on the wall) was made by one of our organists. He made it in memory of Pat Richard, who had been our organist for years. There's so much in here that is just given out of love. And I think that is probably
the most wonderful part of this little church," Mary said.
The Camillia City Tour of Homes takes place annually in October. Some historic Greenville churches may be included. For more information, contact the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce: 334-382-3251.
This Thanksgiving season, as you give thanks, remember: You are His work of love.
Jeff Barganier is a novelist, travel writer and speaker. He travels far and wide upon the slightest excuse for something interesting to write about. His novels include Lawson’s Bluff (2021); The Slash Brokers (1998). He also manages Cindy Barganier Interiors LLC (www.cindybarganier.com) at The Waters in Pike Road, Alabama. Contact Jeff at Jeffbarganier@ knology.net . You may print out his features at www.jeffbarganier.com and take them with you when you travel!
“When one month to live was almost two years ago.
Dave—Leukemia Survivor
Learning you have a rare type of leukemia can be among the worst moments in your life. Learning you used to have it can be one of the best. With the latest medical therapies and a compassionate heart, Dr. Avery and his care team were beside me every step of the way—fighting, encouraging, healing. My personal journey at Montgomery Cancer Center was so powerful, it led my heart to volunteer there. Because you see, I want to be a part of the incredible healing moments that other patients will remember.
LEARN MORE
By Claire Jones
How to Be Happily Alone for the Holidays
6 Ideas to Connect, Share and Give If You'll Be Solo
If you’re solo this holiday season, it may be by happy choice or you may be suffering a recent loss or simply missing your family. But as we know, alone doesn’t have to mean lonely.
This time of year can be ideal for reconnecting with friends, taking care of yourself, creating new traditions and finding purpose through giving.
Here are six ideas to help you enjoy your own company and add meaning and joy to this celebratory time of year:
1. Find your friend connections.
It may seem intrusive to ask friends to include you in their holiday plans, but the truth is, just about everyone you know has an open seat at the table if you have the courage to ask. There is absolutely no shame in expressing your need for human connection or in seeking it out with people you trust. You’ll be surprised how compassionate and giving people will be if you give them the chance — and you’ll never know unless you ask.
But if asking seems too intimidating, consider organizing an event of your own. Throw a potluck and invite friends and acquaintances. Most people can get away from family festivities for at least a short time (some really want to), and
you may discover others who are in a situation like yours, looking for some together time.
2. Pay it forward: Give back to those in need.
Use holidays as a time to volunteer. Serve meals to the homeless or deliver gifts to the homebound elderly, remembering
that the gift of companionship is precious. Volunteering is known to help the giver as well as the recipient and can help you appreciate the blessings that you have.
You can find volunteer opportunities in your area by exploring sites like Meals On Wheels, VolunteerMatch, United Way, AARP and United We Serve.
3. Take care of yourself.
Holiday stress catches up whether you’re alone or surrounded by people. So care for yourself by booking a massage, making a reservation at a favorite restaurant or splurging on a suite at a ritzy hotel if you can afford it. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to go to the opera or a live sports event, but you’ve never had a companion who wanted to go with you. Now is the perfect time to take yourself.
4. Travel solo.
Sometimes, the best thing to do when you're alone for the holidays is to get out of town. You could go as far as Peru or stay closer to home and still benefit from a change of scenery, with new people and exciting activities you’ve never tried.
A holiday cruise can be a great escape, and some options are surprisingly affordable. Companies like
BabyBoomerTrips and organizations like Connecting Solo Travel Network offer holiday cruises especially for 50+ passengers to domestic and international locales.
5. Take part in holiday activities and festivals.
No matter where you live, there’s likely a plethora of local holiday events you could attend, many of which are free of charge or inexpensive for the public.
Most areas have at least a few festive lighting displays, Christmas tree strolls
and holiday craft fairs. Bigger cities with museums and art galleries often host holiday events.
If you’d enjoy an outing with a group, try finding locals with similar interests on Meetup. com. Some groups focus on boomers and many throw Christmas, Kwanzaa or Chanukah parties. As long as you are cautious and protect yourself and your information when meeting people
online, Meetup groups can be a fantastic way to get out of your shell for the holidays and enjoy activities with people who are in a similar place in their lives.
6. See your family, even if they’re far away.
You may not be together physically, but Skype and Google+ Hangouts can bring loved ones together and let you connect without having to pay expensive airfare or travel great distances.
If you can’t access video chat, catch up by phone or email. A simple call can brighten your day and remind you that you are loved, even if you are temporarily flying solo.
Clair Jones is a freelance journalist who loves to write about career and business trends, lifestyle advice, technology and travel.
source: www.nextavenue.org
A Winter Gathering with Kathy Mattea: Good News and Other Favorite
Thursday, December 12 @ Gogue Performing Arts Center
7 p.m. Grammy Award winner Kathy Mattea brings her deep acoustic music roots to an original and traditional Christmas holiday music program. Led by her warm and soulful vocals and deft arrangements, Mattea’s stellar band, assembled for this tour with some of Nashville’s finest musicians, brings a fresh take on a wide range of songs of the season: from well-loved traditional tunes to selections from 1993’s Grammy winning Good News album and 2003’s acclaimed Joy for Christmas Day, to her breakthrough recording of the iconic “Mary, Did You Know?”. 910 S. College Street Auburn, AL 36830 goguecenter.auburn.edu
Christmas with C.S. Lewis
December 5 @ 7:30 PM, Montgomery Performing Arts Centre
In the early years of his young adult life C S Lewis believed the story of Christ’s birth was nothing more than feel-good myth. That all changed after a particular encounter with his great friend and fellow author, J R R Tolkien. Although both men loved mythology in general, Tolkien was convinced that the Jesus myth was the one true myth. That was the start of Lewis’ journey from Atheism to Christianity. From that point on Christmas, for Lewis, took on an entirely different meaning. Here we find him at his home near Oxford on Christmas Eve hosting a group of Americans who are Christmassing in England. They are about to experience an unforgettable assortment of Yuletide recollections which stimulates a whole range of emotions – curiosity, laughter, gladness and even some tears. Above all, they will discover how that encounter with Tolkien forever changed his Christmas celebrations. $60 Additional fees may apply. Tickets at https://mpaconline.org/christmas-with-c-s-lewis/.
River Region Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”
Friday, December 6, 2024 @ Davis Theatre
December 6 & 7 at 7 p.m. and December 7 & 8 at 2 p.m. “The Nutcracker,” choreographed by Stevan Grebel and set to music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, will thrill the audience with the prodigious dancing of the Youth Ballet Company and students from the school. With spectacular backdrops, scenery and a growing Christmas tree, this ballet is truly magical!
Davis Theatre, 7981 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 356.5460 riverregionballet@gmail.com alabamariverregionballet.com
Hilltop Public House Announces the Return of Miracle at Hilltop Monday, November 18 through Saturday, January 4
Hilltop Public House is bringing back Miracle at Hilltop, the Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar that transforms Hilltop into a holiday wonderland. Miracle is returning for its second year on Monday, November 18 and will run through Saturday, January 4 It promises to be better than last year with more decorations, more cocktails and more merriment!
Miracle at Hilltop features holiday cocktails, extravagant decorations and holiday events for everyone whose favorite holiday is Christmas. The pop-up is part of the Miracle brand, a globally recognized series of Christmas-themed cocktail bars known for their kitschy décor, inventive drinks and collectible glassware. Your favorite drinks from last year like the Christmapolitan and the Snowball Old-Fashioned will be back and there will be new specialty cocktails on this years’ menu as well!
GIFT HOPE | A special way to shop this Christmas Wednesday, December 4 | 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Fellowship Hall of First United Methodist Church, 2416 W. Cloverdale Park, Montgomery. Or Online Shopping from December 4 through December 12. Gift Hope will again offer people in the River Region an opportunity to rethink the traditional Christmas gift, by giving them a better alternative – giving hope to someone in need. Gift Hope supports area ministries and nonprofits through an event where you can purchase a variety of “gifts” in honor of a friend or loved one. By supporting Gift Hope, you help fund specific items from one or more nonprofits working in the Montgomery area to help those in need -- for example, one week of hot meals for an elderly couple in need, or one night’s shelter for a homeless family. (Gifts will be available at a variety of prices, starting at $5.) The gift recipient will receive from the gift purchaser a card announcing the gift(s) made in the recipient’s name and the name(s) of the designated nonprofits. Gift Hope 2024 is a community event sponsored by the Church & Society Work Area of the First United Methodist Church in Cloverdale Park. Join us on Wednesday, December 4, and support your community. For those unable to attend, online shopping will be available from December 4 - December 12 at www.fumcmontgomery.org/gifthope/.
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas at MPAC, November 17 at 7pm
The spirit of the season comes alive with the signature sound of the top-selling Christmas music artist in history! America’s favorite holiday celebration for four decades features the beloved Christmas music of Mannheim Steamroller along with dazzling multimedia effects that bring the magic of the holidays to life.
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for more than 35 years! Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show includes 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of dazzling multimedia effects – capturing the spirit of the season in an immersive yet intimate setting. Get your tickets at https://mpaconline.org.
Win a Wine Cellar Fundraiser * November 12, 5:30pm-8:00pm
Jennie Weller Catering, 231 N Hull Street
Join us for an exciting opportunity to support Bridge Builders Alabama in our mission to foster leadership, understanding, and unity among diverse youth in our community. At our “Win a Wine Cellar” fundraising event, you’ll have a chance to win an incredible wine cellar collection, perfect for any wine enthusiast! This exclusive event will feature a variety of wines, food pairings, and opportunities to mingle with like-minded supporters of Bridge Builders Alabama. Your participation will directly contribute to empowering local youth through transformative leadership programs. Visit https://www.bridgebuildersal.org/ for ticket information.
Caregiver of the Month Spotlight: Jennifer Dodson
Jennifer Dodson is a truly exceptional caregiver. Her commitment to her clients is unwavering, and she consistently goes above and beyond to provide top-notch care. Her punctuality, reliability and quick learning ability make her a highly efficient and effective employee. Jenni's warm personality and sense of humor create a positive and uplifting environment for her clients. We are grateful for her contributions to Home Care Assistance and the positive impact she has on the lives of our clients. Thanks, Jenni, for always being a delightful person and bringing joy to your clients.
We appreciate your hard work and dedication, thank you for a job Well Done!!
For more information visit www.homecareassistancemontgomery.com
Gobble Wobble 5K Run/Walk
November 29, 8 am @ EJI, 400 North Court Street, Montgomery
Montgomery as part of its mission to promote wellness in the River Region by encouraging Montgomery residents to live healthier, happier lives. The run/walk will allow participants to exercise at their own pace while staying healthy and having fun!
Registration for the event is FREE! Everyone who registers online will be entered into the Move Montgomery T-shirt Giveaway at the event. Visit movemgm.com.
Holiday Bazaar - Lake Martin
Friday, November 29 @ Russell
Crossroads
9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Artisans and patrons from all over gather for this vast annual display of handmade goods. Artisans feature everything from jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork, lotions, furniture, and much more! Visit russelllandsonlakemartin.com for details on this perfect Black Friday shopping event! AND, make sure your grandkids have their lists ready for Santa! The Jolly Elf will make his way from the North Pole to the Green Stage at 10am. And, as in the past, he will arrive by carriage and will be in place on the Green Stage until around 2 p.m.
Get ready to be dazzled,
BOOMERS, share your stuff with BOOM! We Love to Bring BOOMERS Together, send info and pics to
Wetumpka Depot presents: “Holiday Dishing”
December 12, 13 and 15
@ Wetumpka Depot
Look no further for a welcome break from holiday baking, decorating and shopping! Back by popular demand, River Region actors/ directors Adrian Bush and Kim Mason along with Depot Artistic Director Kristy Meanor collaborate on some serious Holiday Dish(ing). This year they are glazing the balls and raising the roof for the Depot! Grab all your besties for a perfect Girl’s Night Out at the Wetumpka Depot Players. We’ll have stories, games, prizes and festive music for the final 2024 Depot production! Perfect for your book club, office party or GNO with your besties. Visit wetumpkadepot.com. Located at 300 S Main Street, Wetumpka, AL 36092.
Montgomery Whitewater - Outdoor Ice-Skating Experience
November 20, 2024 - February 12, 2025 (Wednesdays - Sundays)
Montgomery Whitewater will be snow much fun this winter with the addition of an outdoor skating rink! No plastic surfaces here—our ice rink is composed of 5,000 square feet of real ice. Located on the concert lawn, you will surely make memories on our skating rink this winter. Enjoy 90-minute skate sessions with your friends and family.
Wednesdays - Sundays - Starting November 15th through February 16th
Ice skating is included for Montgomery Whitewater Annual Pass holders Park Entry is always free / family and pet friendly year-around Montgomery Whitewater, 1100 Maxwell Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36104, (334) 746-6530 ashley@montgomerywhitewater.com
Price: $20.00 per person
single parent as the working head of the household. There is a growing share of interethnic marriages. This means that a couple is likely to be working on melding cultural backgrounds to find common values and traditions.
With our culture offering flexibility in lifestyle choices, parents are not bound to raising children in the traditions of their childhood. My generation and my parents before me used Dr. Benjamin Spock as a baby and childcare guru. My daughter is on multiple Internet parenting chat groups and follows advice websites. We live in the Information Age and some ideas that we previously embraced have been rejected.
What then is the role of the grandparent? We should be nurturers, present to give love, praise, and physical or financial support from the sidelines. My husband and I provide babysitting for our granddaughter who lives nearby. My
grandsons live out of state, and we visit them and host them at our home as often as we can. I load the house with age-appropriate toys and activities while my husband stocks the pantry and refrigerator with the food they crave. We make blueberry pancakes together.
The joy of interacting with our grandchildren is immeasurable, but matching schedules for visits can be a challenge. 40% of adults live in a state other than where they were raised, but even with the 60% who live within an hour of extended family, work and kids' activities may keep them away for long stretches. Older adults have their own calendars to manage, especially when it comes to health care.
All we can do is be ready to welcome our grandkids when we can with open arms. It's a vulnerable feeling not to know when we will be able to
give the next hug, but in the interim, technology has provided us with FaceTime, texting photographs and sending videos to connect us.
My mother provided a superior grandparent role model. While she was not a Tech Age grandma, she bought a computer to stay in touch with her grandchildren when they were older. She never gave advice, but her grandchildren always knew where to go for unconditional love. She made each one feel special by baking individualized oatmeal cookies, knowing their preferences: raisins, nuts or chips.
Other guidance comes from the members of a Facebook Group who responded to my query to offer their best grandparenting advice. The resounding theme of their replies was "you are not their parents." We should acquiesce to them and ask permission
to deviate from their guidelines. If the parents avoid sugar in their children's diet, ask if you may give them cookies or dessert. Find out how they want you to handle discipline — for example, time out or withholding privileges. Most of us will be sending our grandchildren home with their parents and need to defer to their rules.
Some grandparents are forced into a more direct interaction when they are needed to help raise their grandchildren. When the grandparents take on the full parenting role, it's called kinship care. Those in the position of kinship grandparenting can be expected to be more vocal and directive. They implement stricter routines and discipline, while those of us not in that role are relaxing rules.
A Well of Patience
Relaxing rules does not mean foregoing house rules. We expect our house,
belongings and pet to be handled with care and we've gotten off easy so far. My brother came upon his grandchild writing on the kitchen wall with a marker. The grandson looked at him and said, "Papa, I made a bad decision."
Kids will make bad decisions (so will adults). One of the many challenges of grandparenting is to dip into a deep well of
patience. We hope that our experience will help us respond better than we might have when we were in the role of the parent. It is far easier to laugh at the antics of our grandchildren than it was to laugh at our own children's missteps. Age has softened us and brought out our nurturing instincts.
We may be told by Kahlil Gibran that our children are not our children, and by our peers that our grandchildren are not our children, but that doesn't minimize our role. We are the Nurturers in Chief providing nourishment for the mind, body and spirit of the next generation.
Source: www.nextavenue.org.
Linda Goor Nanos is a practicing attorney, author, wife, mother and grandmother. Her writing credits include a memoir "Forty Years of PMS," professional articles and published essays on life lessons.
More Joy, Less Stress
10 Ways to Simplify the Season
It's supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, full of friends, family and festivities. But research confirms a different reality -most Americans have elevated stress levels during the holiday season. Instead of being full of good tidings and cheer, families often feel drained of time, energy and peace. Stressors such as crowds and lines, party planning, financial concerns and trying to make the holidays perfect can make the end of the year hectic and overwhelming.
These ten tips will simplify the season and make it merry and bright.
1. Focus on your reason for the season.
Why are you celebrating? Is it for spiritual reasons? Maybe you want to spend time with friends and family or enjoy the spirit of giving during the holidays. Keep what is most important about the holidays at the center of your celebration. Reconsider any task or commitment that takes your time, energy, enjoyment or finances away from your reason for celebrating in the first place.
2. Set firm boundaries around your time. With all the holiday volunteering, office parties and family gatherings, it's easy to overcommit yourself. This year, pick one project you want to volunteer your time to, or pick a variety of simple acts of kindness you can do with your family. Spend time with your friends and loved ones, but don't feel guilty if you don't go to every party or gathering.
3. Let go of Martha.
One of the most stress-relieving things you can do at the holidays is set the bar a little lower. Martha Stewart is an elegant hostess, but you don't have to do everything the way Martha would to have a beautiful season. Embrace simpler decorations, meals and gift giving than you have in the past. Try quick shortcuts or holiday hacks. If you let go of expectations, you may be pleasantly surprised to find yourself content with a celebration you hadn't even envisioned.
4. Farm out your to-do list
At the beginning of the season make a to-do list of what you want to
accomplish. If you find that it is too long for the amount of time that you have, consider delegating some of the items. If you contribute to a Christmas club at your bank, you might even consider setting aside some of the money specifically so you can hire others to help with your holiday tasks. Have groceries delivered, and buy gifts online to avoid the holiday rush. Grocery stores also have a plethora of pre-packaged holiday foods that make delicious sides, cutting down on your time in the kitchen. Buy desserts from your local bakery, and shop at stores that provide wrapping stations. No time to clean the house? Hire a cleaning service just for
the holiday season or ask for this service as a gift.
5. Gift others with experiences. Shopping at the holidays can be timeconsuming and nerve-wracking with crowds and traffic. If you don't start early, coveted items sell out, leaving you scrambling for another gift. Ask those you give gifts to if there is an experience they would like to have. Tickets to the theatre? Family passes to an amusement park or aquarium? A relaxing day at the spa? Experiences give friends and family the opportunity to make memories and pamper themselves, unique gifts that are muchappreciated.
6. Set a holiday tea time.
Recent research shows that drinking green and black tea has many health benefits, including promoting relaxation. Herbal teas, while not true tea, still help with anxiety and stress. In keeping with the holiday spirit, sip some calming
peppermint tea, or try chamomile, lemon balm or passionflower.
7. Take a hike.
One way to tell your stress to take a hike might be to actually take one yourself. When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins that trigger a happier, more relaxed mood. Aerobic exercise outdoors away from screens, phones and to-do lists can clear your mind and help you keep what's important in perspective.
8. Reconnect with long lost friends and relatives.
Meet with an old friend you haven't talked to for years, and catch up. Take some time off and visit relatives you miss seeing on a regular basis. Surrounding yourself with people you enjoy is powerful when you want to combat holiday stress.
9. Do something kind for someone else. You don't have to overcommit yourself to a charity or fundraiser to be kind.
Small random acts of kindness can make someone's day. Let someone in front of you at the supermarket line or let someone drive their car in front of yours in the parking lot. Send an anonymous Christmas card with cash or a gift card to a college student or elderly person that you know is struggling financially. Throw change in Salvation Army buckets when you pass them. Having a kind spirit chases away stress and keeps the season warm and hope filled.
10. Celebrate memories more than material possessions.
Material gifts are nice, but most of us quickly forget gifts we have received in past years. The thing that we remember the most are the memories we make with friends and family. Make some happy memories this holiday season and bid stress good bye.
Janeen Lewis is a freelance journalist, teacher and mom to Andrew and Gracie. She has been published in several parenting publications across the country and in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Christmas Magic.
Adele Slaton Woman of Faith, Lover of Life
This month’s cover profile is wife, mother and friend to many, Adele Slaton. From hours volunteering at church and Life on Wheels to spending time with friends and a large family, this lady keeps busy. No wonder her favorite thing to do in the evenings is to simply be at home relaxing with husband, Slats, and dog, Lily. We think you'll be inspired by Adele and her zest for life, love for others, and commitment to her God. A commitment that shines in all she does for our community and beyond. Be sure to check out her most recent endeavor as publicity chairwoman for the inaugural Christmas Market to be held at Christchurch November 21-24!
BOOM!: Please give us a brief biography, i.e., where you’re from, your education, what brought you to the Montgomery area, your children, your family, etc.
Adele: I grew up in Birmingham, the second of five children. My mother was a homemaker and my father a general surgeon. My father was an old-fashioned doctor who made house calls and accepted payments of whatever patients could afford. I remember one patient gave him bags of sweet potatoes from which my mother made sweet potato pies. :) Also, when kids in the neighborhood got hurt, they would come to our house for a few stitches or to get patched up. My mother was an avid gardener. Later in life, she cared for over 150 rose bushes! We always had beautiful, fragrant roses in our house.
I went to The University of Alabama, and those four years were the most fun, fabulous, and carefree years of my life! As a freshman, I actually whistled when I walked to class.
I graduated in 1978 with a major in Economics. After graduation, I moved back to Birmingham and worked for NCR selling teller and proof equipment
to Banks. Three years later, I moved to Atlanta and worked 7 years with Citicorp and sold financial instruments. In 1987, I moved back to Birmingham and worked in Commercial Real Estate for 5 years. I met my husband, Slats
Slaton, in 1993 and we married in 1994 when I was 38. I moved to his home in Montgomery, where I worked briefly in commercial real estate leasing and property management, before deciding to stay home when I had our baby. Slats and I have one child, Emme Slaton, now 27, who graduated from Auburn University. She lives in Raleigh, North Carolina where she works as an account manager with a cloud-based communication company.
In 2002, our family moved to Decatur, Alabama, where Slats
Adele and Slats with daughter, Emme
Beach trip with Slats
relocated his advertising business, The Slaton Agency. Not long after our move, I became a volunteer at a local ministry called Refuge of Grace. Working with the local court system, Refuge of Grace was a faith-based home for certain women who were released from jail. The program provided a variety of classes on topics such as Addiction, Parenting, Bible Studies, Car Maintenance, Cooking, and so on. Several churches were also involved in this program.
Our daughter Emme was five years old when we moved to Decatur, and she attended Decatur Heritage Christian Academy, a small private Christian school. We lived in this community for 13 years and thoroughly enjoyed it. Slats loved his new work environment, and I made close, lifelong friends. The small community proved to be a wonderful environment for Emme's childhood.
In 2015, when Emme left for Auburn, Slats and I decided to move back to Montgomery, which was closer to his primary client, family members, and old friends. We joined Christchurch Anglican and were immediately at home since a lot of the membership were close friends from when we lived here before. We built a house in Hampstead where I've made a number of new friends. I really love the neighborhood and enjoy living in Montgomery!
BOOM!: You are the publicity chairwoman for a new holiday event in the River Region: The Christmas Market!
Can you share details of the Market... date, location, vendors, purpose and why readers will want to attend?
Adele: The upcoming Christchurch Christmas Market will be a first for us, and we are excited to bring so many quality vendors from around the Southeast to Montgomery. The event will be held November 21-24 and will take place at Christchurch's new
General Christmas Market
• Friday, November 22 - 9AM - 6PM
• Saturday, November 23 - 9 AM - 6 PM
• Sunday, November 24 - 12 noon - 4PM
• Lunch from Bates House of Turkey will be available on site for purchase
• Tickets are $5 and available at the door
There will be a variety of products from vendors and gifted artists from all over the Southeast. This event will offer an impressive display of unique gift items, including antiques, jewelry, stained glass, Nativity sets, silver, porch swings, original artwork from several artists, hand- painted ornaments, candies and pecans, artisan breads and pastries, Thanksgiving casseroles, turkeys and much, much more! This will be a fun, festive event which offers an opportunity to purchase gifts and enjoy the Spirit of the Christmas Season! All proceeds go to Christchurch missions. A secondary purpose is to share the love of Christ with the vendors and visitors to the Market.
facility at 8820 Vaughn Road, which was formerly Southern Homes & Gardens. The complete schedule of events and other details are below:
Early Glimpse of Christmas (Party/Shop Early)
• Thursday, November 21 - 5PM - 8PM
• Tickets are $10, available at the door
BOOM!: Do you have time to be involved in the community, church, or civic organizations? What are some of the organizations/projects you serve and why?
Adele: Retirement and this stage of life, in general, affords me plenty of time to give to this community. Of all of the jobs I've ever had, my current position as a Client Advocate for Life
Adele's family
Christchurch Fall Bazaar
on Wheels is probably my favorite. The ministry's Mission Statement is: "We use the power of Ultrasound to Serve women, Save babies, and Share Jesus." We operate out of a RV (the Ultrasound Bus) that was designed to function as a medical clinic, and we take it to several locations all over the city. We go where women need us.
Our job is to provide support, love and knowledge to women battling fear and hopelessness. After completing a little bit of paperwork, the client is led to the back room so we can talk privately. This is where I get to learn about her and her situation. I'm generally told about the father of the baby, her living conditions, whether she is working, and her financial situation. This information allows us to determine what services are needed. If she is considering abortion, we talk about her feelings and her fears, why she is considering terminating the pregnancy, and we discuss other options. We inform her about the numerous state and local services that are available to her and her baby, including WIC, Medicaid, Gift of Live (a service which provides a nurse to walk with her through the pregnancy and the first few years of her child's life.) We always refer her to a pregnancy center that offers long-term services.
Bible. Also, if she doesn't have a church home, we refer her to a church in the community which best fits her needs. We partner with numerous churches in the River Region who will love on her and her family and will disciple them. This is always a sweet way to send her on her way. We always follow up with her until she has seen her doctor. Finally, we encourage her to bring her new baby to see us as we have a gift for her.
have a handful of really close friends, and go to fewer social events than I used to. I also find that I'm less concerned with what other people think. I get pleasure from simple things like growing Zinnias and other wildflowers at our
Another current role I enjoy is with Christchurch, where I serve as Director of our Newcomer Ministry. This involves assigning greeters for each service, who join me to stand at the church entrance and greet everyone who enters our church. With the help of Julie Mann and Catlin Tench, we keep an eye out for new visitors. We welcome these guests, show them Christ's love, and introduce them to other members and the priests. But it doesn't stop there. We also follow-up and continue to care for these newcomers and help them find friends or a ministry that suits them. I also serve as a member of Daughters of the Holy Cross at Christchurch, which is an Order of women committed to making disciples and serving Jesus through our Rule of Life: prayer, study, service and evangelism.
Community Garden. I also enjoy working out and exercising regularly. Slats and I both have large families, which makes it fun to get together. My favorite is spending quiet evenings at home. Another nice addition to my routine has been spending time with our neighbor's 3-year-old twin girls and watching them grow. And last but certainly not least is our dog, Lily, who is a huge part of our lives! She is sweet, obedient (most of the time), and very much a Mama's baby. She is at her happiest at night when she sleeps between Slats and me.
BOOM!: As a woman of faith, would you share your Christian journey and the guidance God has provided?
Without question, the ultrasound is our most powerful tool. The moment the mother sees her baby's heartbeat on the monitor, everything changes. 89% of women considering abortion change their mind after experiencing this. In addition, there is the power of the Gospel. Before she leaves, we share the Good News with her and give her a
BOOM!: As you've aged, how have your priorities changed? How would you describe what it means to "age well"? What are your thoughts on retirement?
Adele: My priorities have definitely changed as I've "matured." (I don't like the word 'aged'). At this stage of life, I
Adele: My Christian journey has been long and is similar to that of the parable of the four soils in the book of Matthew. As a child, the bits of scripture I heard never reached me - like the seeds on the path that were eaten by birds. In high school, friends shared the Gospel with me and I was really excited. I went to their church and attended their Bible studies and loved hearing Jesus' teachings. However, just like the seeds in rocky soil, God's word had no foundation, and the distractions of high school times lured me away. Then, in my 20s, I was re-introduced to Jesus and His teachings, learned a lot, and was eager
Adele and Lily
Adele with infant at Life on Wheels
to learn more. But my job involved a transfer to Atlanta, and once again, the "thorns" of travel, work, and an active social life took over and God's place in my heart was strangled out. A few years after moving back to Birmingham, my Christian Journey was "jumpstarted" by an adult Christian retreat called Cursillo (The Anglican Church has a similar retreat called Paseo) – and it was an amazing experience. Finally, God's love had taken root in my heart. And not only that, it was at this retreat that I met my Slats. After that weekend, with his support and encouragement, I started to attend church regularly and spend time with other Christians. Through small groups at the church I started actually reading the Bible and came to understand the Gospel.
Becoming a true believer has been a process of learning and walking closer to Jesus. Of course, I'm always falling short, but I return to Him again and again, and each time, his arms are open. Today, my faith and service to Jesus is the most important thing in my life.
BOOM!: What do you like about living in the Montgomery/River Region area? What do we need more of?
Adele: I really enjoy living in the River Region! People here are friendly and open. I'm fortunate to have members of Slats' family here in town, along with close friends and a great church home. Montgomery is a wonderful city and it's been exciting to watch it grow in recent years. As the state capital, with new restaurants, shops and hotels, the Biscuits Stadium – not to mention the river development – there is great energy here that gives the city the potential to be even better. As with any community, it's not perfect and there is always room for improvement. So, I would encourage anyone seeking change, to get involved and be an instrument in bringing that change about.
BOOM!: How do you like to relax and wind down from a day full of activity?
Adele: After a long day, I like to come home and just chill. If I have the energy,
I may walk or ride my bike with Lily. I also love to pop by a neighbor's house to visit. Afterwards, I cook dinner with Slats. Then we typically watch the news or maybe a movie or read. Of course, every day is a little different, but no matter what, I love being at home!
BOOM!: How do you like to spend time with family and friends?
Adele: My favorite thing to do is to spend time with my family. Since my daughter Emme lives 9 hours away, it's always special when she comes home. The three of us will go to dinner, take walks, watch movies, and just chill. On occasion, we'll rent a place at the beach and spend time together there. And then there's the annual family get-together for Thanksgiving. All of the members of my family – my siblings, their spouses and children and grandchildren all get together. This year we will be in Charleston at my sister Emily's house. She lives two blocks from
the bay in Mt. Pleasant and it's a great 3-4 days of cooking, walking, bike rides, hanging out by the fire, and big family meals.
As for friends, I've always said that if a woman has good girlfriends, she can be happy anywhere! I'm fortunate in this department. Here in Hampstead, I routinely visit with neighbors on afternoons, and I exercise in the mornings with other friends at the Hampstead Gym. I'm also blessed to be married to a man with four sisters – all who live nearby. I have great friends from when I lived here before and I'm blessed with friendships through Christchurch. These friendships deepen with time and shared experiences and with the foundation of serving God.
BOOM!: Many people, as they age, experience a renewed sense of purpose, new goals, etc. How would you describe this sense of renewal in your life? Any advice for the rest of us seeking renewal?
Adele: My mother used the following term and now I get it, "A purpose other than thou."
BOOM!: What are some of your favorite travel experiences? Favorite getaway spot? Are any travel dreams planned?
Adele: I love to travel! When I was single, I traveled nationally and internationally. Favorite trips include France for 2 weeks
Adele with her siblings
Slats' family
with two other girls, bicycling through Germany and Maine with groups, and a trip with six friends to Brazil, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Slats and I have taken some nice trips together including a stay in Athens, Greece followed by a cruise with stops at surrounding islands like Crete, Patmos and Ithaca. We also went with a group to Hawaii in 2004. And then over the years, we have taken a number of nice family trips to places like the Bahamas, New York and California. These days, Slats has little interest in long trips, however, I continue traveling with friends and church groups when these opportunities present themselves. In 2010 I joined some friends on a trip to India and Nepal and witnessing that culture was fascinating! From the smells and sounds of the busy streets of New Delhi to the majesty of the Taj Mahal to the beautiful mountains and quaint villages in Nepal, it truly was another world!
In 2017, I joined a mission trip to the mountains of Uganda with Christchurch. The Sebei Diocese of the Anglican Church in Uganda is special to us because they gave our church a home and a Bishop when we first joined the Anglican community. Christchurch is committed to these fellow believers in Uganda and has helped them build a school, a church, and more recently, a modern health clinic. We also provide funding to send their priests to seminary. Our church family supports close to 100 children who attend the All Saints School
we helped build. When I was there, we traveled to several villages and schools to spend time with the people and children and we saw extreme poverty - yet all the people, young and old alike, smiled and were generally happy. The reason - they love Jesus!! I would have to say that of all of my trips, the Uganda experience was the most profound.
My most recent travel experience was in February of 2022, when I joined a large group from Christchurch for a pilgrimage to Israel. Making it even more special was the fact that my daughter Emme joined me!
Father Andrew Rowell led us and provided excellent guides throughout the entire journey. Bishop Paul and his wife Mama Agnes of Uganda joined us. It was a privilege to travel in Christ's footsteps and see so many places referenced in Scripture. Reading the Bible now is so different because I have actually been to places like Capernaum, the Sea of Galilee, Jerusalem, and so on.
Yellowstone or the Grand Tetons. We have no firm plan... who knows where we'll end up! ;)
BOOM!: On November 28th, we will all celebrate Thanksgiving. Can you share with our readers what you are most thankful for?
Adele: Recently, I have witnessed the power of God working in the lives of a family from our church. They experienced a tragic loss and were confronted with seemingly insurmountable hurdles. Yet they have remained faithful. And sure enough, every single time a situation would arise that seemed hopeless for them, God would step in and provide. I'm thankful for their friends, co-workers and other Angels who stepped in during their time of need. My faith has strengthened a hundredfold witnessing this family go through this difficult time. I'm thankful for their friendship, their strength, and their child-like faith. And I am thankful for Almighty God who has blessed them and who will continue to comfort and care for them.
BOOM!: Give us three words that describe you.
Adele: Energetic, Optimistic, and Curious.
My next big travel adventure will be in May with three other girls. We're planning a trip out West to see
We want to thank Adele for sharing some of her life's story with us this month. If you have comments or suggestions about our cover profiles, including nominating someone, please text Jason Watson at 334.328.5189 or email jason@ riverregionboom.com.
Christchurch pilgrims in ruins of Capernaum Temple.
Israel with Father Andrew and Bishop
Uganda girl with baby who ran beside our bus.
Preventing Colds and Flu
As we are concentrating on colds and flu, we are looking at oils with a high proportion of certain chemical components that have proven properties that will help these issues (congestion, runny nose, aches and pains, etc.) The following 3 chemical components have been scientifically proven to have the following properties:
D-limonene: activates white blood cells, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antihypotensive, antinociceptive, antiobesity, antioxidant, antitumoral, antiulcerogenic, anxiolytic, autophagy stimulation, hepatoprotective, immunostimulant, skin penetration enhancer, vasorelaxant
Pinene (a): analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal (Candida), antinociceptive, antispasmodic, antiviral, anxiolytic, gastroprotective, prevents bone loss
1,8 cineole: airborne antimicrobial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antinociceptive, antioxidant, antispasmodic, antiviral, cognition enhancement, dopaminergic, gastroprotective, hypotensive, increases cerebral blood flow, inhibits acetylcholinesterase, mucolytic, skin penetration enhancer
As you can see, there are obvious benefits for using oils high in these properties to help prevent or treat colds and flu, but how do we know what oils have these components? The answer lies in a GC/MS report (Gas Chromatography/ Mass Spectrometry). Reputable Essential oil companies will have these readily available for any oil batch they sell. GC/MS reports can be used to identify oils that are high in the components you are looking for and can help you make
substitutions if necessary. They also can tell you if an oil has been adulterated in any way (that is, if it is pure or not.) Based on this information, I have selected 5 essential oils that will help us survive this season and are easily available. Use this link to purchase high quality oils - https:// www.aromatics.com?sca_ref=3140382. hsuAvWUmoz.
1) Eucalyptus - airborne microbial, reduces congestion and coughing, reduces viruses, eases swelling, calms aches and pains.
2) Sweet Orange - uplifting aroma, supports immunity, soothes muscle aches associated with colds, reduces nausea, stress/anxiety reduction
3) Lavender - reducing stress and tension, diffuse to reduce germs, immune support, reduce sinus congestion and inflammation, helps you get a good night’s sleep 4) Tea Tree - reduces viruses and bacteria, reducing swelling in sinuses, reduces congestion 5) Frankincense - emotional balance/calming, reduces muscle aches and headaches, reduces nighttime coughing, calms spasms
Now the fun bit! Some DIY recipes that you can easily make and use at home. The first two are diffuser recipes. An oil diffuser is a device that breaks essential oils down into smaller molecules, dispersing them into the air. I recommend a plug-in diffuser, called an Ultrasonic or Humidifying Diffuser. Please do not use oils in a traditional humidifier, they will
end up clogging it up. You will need to dilute the essential oil with water for the diffuser’s electronic frequencies to release the oil into a mist. Make sure that it has an automatic shut off when it runs out of water. They do not need to be expensive; TJMAXX always has a selection for around $20, just don’t expect any essential oils you buy there to be great quality.
Daytime diffuser blend
3 drops Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus Globulus)
3 drops Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis)
2 drops Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternafolia)
Make up a stock blend, then add 7-10 drops to a diffuser. Run for no more than 2 hours at a time. If there are animals in the house, make sure they can leave the area if they wish.
Nighttime diffuser blend
4 drops Frankincense (Boswellia Carterii)
2 drops Lavender (Lavendula Angustifolia)
2 drops Sweet Orange (Citrus Sinensis)
Make up a stock blend, then add 7-10 drops to a diffuser. Run for no more than 2 hours at a time. If there are animals in the house, make sure they can leave the area if they wish.
Good night’s sleep bath salt blend
2 drops Frankincense (Boswellia carterii)
2 drops Lavender (Lavendula augustifolia)
2oz pink Himalayan salt (or Epsom salts)
1 tbsp Castile soap
Add salts to a nice hot bath, soak for at least 15 minutes. Sleep well!
Chest and Neck rub
6 drops Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus Globulus)
5 drops Frankincense (Boswellia Carterii)
4 drops Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
2 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
1oz Lotion
Mix well, use on chest and neck when you feel under the weather.
* Once made, your blends are susceptible to oxidization, so use within 6-12 months.
email: nyrbhalla@gmail.com I web: us.nyrorganic.com/shop/tracybhalla I www. LogHouseAromatics.com
Tracy Bhalla, independent consultant with NYR Organics and founder of LogHouseAromatics.com; after 25 years of using homeopathic remedies, it was time to take charge and complete my Aromatherapy Certification, which I achieved April 2020 and since founded LogHouseAromatics.com as a source for useful essential oil and general natural health information and a place to purchase certain products. email: nyrbhalla@gmail.com I am here to answer any questions you may have.
Maximizing Medicare for 2025: Big Changes Ahead
Maximizing your benefits and minimizing your costs for Medicare is becoming increasingly complex, especially for the year 2025. Due to major insurer cuts required by the Inflation Reduction Act, millions of seniors will lose access to their existing Medicare Advantage plans as well as their existing Medicare Part D plans. Some insurers are terminating plans, reducing popular benefits such as dental coverage, and increasing charges for deductibles as a way to respond to new federal government requirements and to maintain profits.
According to some experts, this is the largest disruption to Medicare plans that we’ve seen in a decade. About 25% of Medicare Part D plans will cease to exist. Hospitals and doctors are dropping some plans; for example, Russell Medical Center in Alexander City announced that it would no longer accept Humana Medicare Advantage plans as of October 1, 2025.
With regards to Medicare Advantage plans, reports are that premiums may decline next year. However, many of these plans are significantly raising their maximum out-of-pocket cost. Wall Street analysts at Leerink Partners found that Humana will have, on average, the largest increases in maximum out-of-pocket costs among the big Medicare insurers.
Enrollment in Medicare Advantage plans continues to increase, so nearly half
Financial Thoughts with Susan Moore
By Susan Clayton Moore, J.D. Principal of Moore Wealth Management, Inc.
of Medicare participants use Medicare Advantage plans. These plans have an annual maximum out-of-pocket cost for hospitalizations and doctor treatments. Some include coverage for prescription drugs. In light of the significant changes to Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Part D plans, it is advisable to review your coverage even if your plan will not be discontinued.
Medicare’s open enrollment period started October 15 and continues until December 7. On Wednesday, November 21, from noon to 1:30 p.m., Susan Moore of Moore Wealth Management, Inc. will be conducting an annual
complimentary webinar workshop that covers the changes for 2025 and how to maximize your Medicare in light of these changes. There will be both a live and recorded version. Please call the Moore Wealth Management office for further information or reservations at 334.270.1672 or email sarah@ moorewealthmanagement.com. If you miss the webinar, we will offer free consultations that are without obligation.
Susan Clayton Moore, J.D., is a financial advisor and wealth manager of Moore Wealth Management, Inc.., with offices in Auburn, Montgomery, and Alexander City, AL. Susan has under advisement over $170 million (as of 1.21.2022) in brokerage and advisory assets through Kestra Financial and has been a financial planner for over 40 years. Contact Susan at 334.270.1672. Email contact is susan@moorewealthmanagement.com.
The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Kestra Investment Services, LLC or Kestra Advisory Services, LLC. This is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney or tax advisor regarding your individual situation.
Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS. Kestra IS or Kestra AS are not affiliated with Moore Wealth Management, Inc. https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures
At Moore Wealth Management, we have been conducting our annual seminar on Maximizing Medicare since 2006. Our experience shows that over 90% of participants need to switch Medicare Part D plans annually to maintain the most cost-effective coverage for their Medicare Part D plans. To get the most out of Medicare, retirees need to manage and review their options.
