BOOM! October 2023

“Though

Publisher/Editor

Jim Watson 334.324.3472 cell/text jim@riverregionboom.com

Contributing Writers

Jeff Barganier

Tracy Bhalla

Greg Budell

Evelyn Garrett

Anne Elizabeth McGowin

Nancy Monson

Susan Moore

Cathi Musicant

Dr. Blake Raggio

Jackson Rainer

Elaine Soloway

Nick Thomas

Cover Photography

Photography by DiAnna Paulk photographybydiannapaulk.com

Advertising

Jim Watson, 334.324.3472 jim@riverregionboom.com

My Breast Cancer Story

Many of you have one. Mine began with my first wife, Marty. Each year during October I share my Breast Cancer Story with our readers. Everyone who has experienced Breast Cancer knows the bond we all share yet everyone’s story is unique. I consider my experience a blessing.

Breast Cancer’s Blessing

Could life be any better? My wife and I were truly enjoying the fruits of our labor. We were business partners; she was the boss and I was her advisor. We had been publishing Montgomery Parents for eight years and serving our community with something we thought was worth doing. We were “empty nesters”, and our schedules allowed for travel and plenty of time to love on the grandkids. Through our effort we had discovered the joy of “made for each other”, because both of us brought something to our marriage and business relationship the other didn’t have. We became a complete work of love. After a 40-year relationship stemming from a 9th grade history class encounter, Marty and I had discovered the “sweet spot” of happiness and we were enjoying the blessing of God’s design. And then we weren’t.

In April of 2003, our lives changed. Marty and I were sitting in our living room as our family doctor told Marty she had metastatic breast cancer. We were paralyzed by the thought. It’s as if our brains were frozen. It was a Friday afternoon, so we would have to spend the weekend with this intruder; we were being held hostage by breast cancer until Monday’s appointment with the oncologist. We both struggled to understand the why. I researched breast cancer and learned too much while Marty began sharing with family and friends the “news” no one wanted to hear. As an optimist I was going to get to the bottom of this problem and find a solution. Marty, who had a deep faith, knew the solution was with God. Of course, we both would press and probe our doctors for answers and hope and got some of both. But in the end, our journey with breast cancer led to God and the peace that only He can provide. Breast cancer changed our lives, but God was the director.

I became a caregiver, and like many men, was pretty unfamiliar with the job description. But when your wife has breast cancer and every day together is truly precious, you ask a lot of dumb questions and you get smart quick. I’m not talking medical stuff, I’m talking laundry and cooking and pill organizing and, most importantly, serving. Marty lived 30 months after her diagnosis and I wouldn’t trade one moment of serving her for anything in this world. The blessing of serving is hard to realize and appreciate because we all want for ourselves. Our nature is to be selfish. But when you serve someone you forget about your needs and value someone else’s. I learned that from Marty. She was a selfless, caring person and when I took on that role in our lives it was an abundant blessing. Marty showed me where to find hope and how to never lose it. Our hope was and is in God. God’s blessings aren’t about being in the best place of your life, they’re about being in the best place with Him.

The annual Breast Cancer Awareness Walk of Life fundraiser in downtown Montgomery is on October 21 so be sure and collect your friends and family and show your support, it's the best way to show your love for all those in the Breast Cancer Community, we all need hope!

Our Cover Profile this month is Evelyn Garrett, the Executive Director of Haven Memory Care on Halcyon in Montgomery. She has a heart for caregiving and for someone whose mother had Alzheimer's, I know how important that can be for the families who want what's best for their loved ones in that situation. Evelyn and her team have caring hearts, we're honored to share her story this month. Thanks for taking a few moments of your valuable time and reading our October issue, and maybe sharing with friends and family, I appreciate the BOOM! Share. Age well my friends.

Jim 334.324.3472

cell/text

jim@riverregionboom.com

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.

Share with a Friend!

Marty Watson

Dr. Raggio’s Beautification Timeline

Recently, we’ve discussed the various surgical and non-surgical options available to reverse the signs of facial aging. Yet, the question remains: When is the best time to undergo such treatments? With the Holiday Season fast approaching, that question becomes all too relevant. That said, I’ll answer that elusive question by presenting a “beautification timeline” with multiple treatment options, ranging from professional-grade skincare to plastic surgery, to help you put your best face forward for your next big event.

Starting now: Skincare

The basis for any facial rejuvenation plan starts with using high-quality, professional-grade skincare. What’s more important than the skincare line you choose, however, is the daily use of the product. In brief, nearly every person wanting to optimize their skin’s appearance would benefit from the routine use of the following skincare items: facial cleanser, antioxidants (Vitamin C/E), Retinol/tretinoin (Vitamin A), Moisturizer, and sunscreen (SPF 30 or greater). If you’re looking to splurge, Growth Factor Serums are also an excellent additive. Regardless of what you decide to buy, I can’t stress this enough: daily use is critical!

Event in 2-4 weeks: Microneedling, Microdermabrasion, Dermaplaning Microneedling (i.e., SkinPen) relies on the principle of inciting controlled damage to the skin to induce collagen stimulation. Microdermabrasion (i.e., DiamondGlow) combines the power of exfoliation plus the infusion of custom serums to treat various skin issues. Dermaplaning uses a sharp blade to remove dead skin and fine vellus hair (aka “peach fuzz”). These treatments,

used alone or combined are great tools to get your skin glowing before your special event.

Estimated Cost: $50-100

Event in 1-2 months: Botox and Dermal Fillers: Facial injectables, namely botulinum toxin (e.g., Botox, Xeomin, Dysport) and dermal fillers (e.g., Juvederm, Restylane, RHA), represent a powerful, minimally invasive tool to reverse the signs of facial aging. By restoring volume and softening wrinkles, injectables represent an affordable alternative to surgery with immediate results, minimal discomfort, and little to no downtime. Results last approximately one year. NOTE: While toxin and filler results are appreciable 1-2 weeks after treatment, I encourage patients not to wait so close to events to allow time for any required correction or “touch-up.” Estimated Cost: $10-15/unit for toxin; $500-850/syringe of filler.

Event in 3 months: Skin Resurfacing (Chemical Peels, Laser Treatments) Chemical Peels and laser treatments represent a great way to improve the texture, tone, and discoloration of the skin. While non-ablative lasers and light peels offer little to no downtime, multiple treatments are often required to obtain (and maintain) good results. On the other hand, more aggressive treatments (i.e., CO2 laser, Phenol Peels) achieve more dramatic results but with longer downtimes (1-2

weeks). Estimated Cost: $200 for light treatments; $2,000 for more aggressive treatments.

Event

in 4-6

months: Facial Plastic Surgery

Although a cosmetic procedure may sound off-putting or dramatic to some, modern-day plastic surgery techniques allow for subtle, natural refinements to the face with minimal downtime and low risks of complications. For example, a Facelift/Necklift is a great way to create a youthful appearance to the midface and jawline. These patients should plan for 2-3 weeks of “social downtime” and understand that results take 2-4 months to appreciate fully. Another standard facial rejuvenation procedure includes a Blepharoplasty (Fig. 1), a quick and well-tolerated in-office procedure used to refresh the appearance of one’s eyes. Lastly, an increasingly popular facial rejuvenation procedure is the Surgical Lip Lift (Fig. 2), an inoffice procedure used to create a more youthful but natural appearance to the lips. Estimated Cost: Facelift/Necklift ($10,000 and up), Blepharoplasty ($3000), Lip Lift ($3000).

How can I learn more?

If you want to learn more about looking your best for your next big event, I suggest consulting with a surgeon with expertise in facial rejuvenation procedures. This will ensure you receive a comprehensive, non-biased assessment and treatment plan. Lastly, and as always, choose a surgeon whom you trust.

In Good Health,

Surgeon

Dr.

Fight Breast Cancer With Love & Money!

Beat the Odds Casino Night

The Beat the Odds Casino Night and Drawdown Event is an exciting party with a casino night theme, a drawdown for a chance to win $10,000, and a BIG 5 auction. The event features real casino tables, complete with dealers for blackjack and other card games, a craps table, and more. Guests will enjoy live music and a wonderful buffet. There are fantastic prizes at the end of the evening such as a pair of Iron Bowl tickets, getaways, electronics, Henig Furs vest and more. The owner of the winning drawdown ticket will go home with $10,000, which makes for an exciting conclusion to the evening. There will be a wine pull and a bourbon raffle. Enjoy an evening with us as we raise money to help local cancer patients in Central Alabama

“Beat the Odds!”

Date: Thursday

October 26, 2022, Time: 6 P.M to 9 P.M., Venue: Wynlakes Country Club. Call the Cancer Wellness Foundation for more information 334.273.2279 or csgunter@ baptistfirst.org

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

Join us for our annual Walk of Life 5K and Riverfront Celebration in downtown Montgomery! Bring the family and enjoy a day of serious fun as we come together in a big way to fight breast cancer in Alabama. It's the breast 5K ever! Join the fun! No matter if you’re a walker, a runner or just someone who wants to enjoy getting outside and helping others in the process, our Walk of Life has something for you! Plus, it’s exciting to see thousands of people take to the streets of downtown Montgomery to show their support for those dealing with breast cancer! Your participation provides mammograms + breast screening services to women and men in every county of Alabama. EARLY DETECTION IS SAVING LIVES — thanks to you! Registration is open, so head over to https://joytolifewalkoflife.funraise.org/ and sign up as a runner, walker, volunteer or team today! Join us October 21st for family fun for everyone—including a 5K run/walk, Kids Zone, food trucks, games, music and much more! Register online at https://joytolife-walkoflife.funraise.org/ today as an individual, team, volunteer or survivor! Remember—the registration fee gets you to the start line, but your fundraising helps us get to the finish line in the fight against breast cancer! The Walk of Life, October 21st. Register today at https://joytolifewalkoflife.funraise.org/

EARLY DETECTION IS SAVING LIVES — thanks to you!

Helping You Understand Legal Issues and Aging

Fall is in the air… and so is MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT

● Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) provides an opportunity to change your Medicare benefits, Medicare Advantage coverage, or Part D coverage or prescription medication.

● AEP runs from October 15 to December 7.

● You should review your plan’s Evidence of Coverage to determine if there are any changes in coverage or costs.

● If you are satisfied with your plan and the coverage you have you do not need to do anything and you will automatically be enrolled in the same plan.

● The Center For Medicare Advocacy provides the following summary of the A, B, C, Ds of Medicare.

Medicare is a benefit structure with four parts: Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D.

The original Medicare is administered and run by the federal government. Medicare includes Part A for coverage for hospital visits, hospice care, and limited skilled nursing facility care and at-home health care. Part B coverage includes preventative, diagnostic, and treatment services for health conditions.

Part D is an additional coverage to original Medicare to provide coverage for drugs drugs, dental, vision or hearing services or additional health

care needs. Part D is available through private insurance companies that have contracts with the government. If you have original Medicare and want to add Part D coverage you must purchase it separately.

Part C is an insurance alternative for people already enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. Part C is known as Medicare Advantage and is available through private health insurance companies to provide Medicare benefits. Medicare Advantage plans combine Part A and Part B and additional services such as prescription drugs, dental, vision, hearing and some health fitness- offering all coverage in one place.

Most often, coverage for prescription drugs is of great concern. In addition to the monthly premiums, there are annual deductibles and there may be additional costs as well. Because Medicare Part D changes frequently and impacts your out-ofpocket expenditure, we recommend reviewing your prescription coverage benefit each year.

You may enroll in Medicare Part D if you did not when you became eligible -however, a penalty may apply.

In 2024, Medicare Part D enrollees will no longer be required to pay the 5% coinsurance that is currently required when you enter the catastrophic phase of $8,000. This change translates to a capped out-of-pocket spending for Medicare Part D enrollees.

In 2024, enrollees who take only brand-named drugs will be subject to a catastrophic threshold of $8,000, totaled from out-of-pocket payments by you, the amount spent by your insurance company, and any drug manufacturer discounts during the coverage gap phase. This will effectively limit out-of-pocket costs to approximately $3,250 in 2024.

Although we cannot decide which plan is best for you, (only you can do that), we are here to assist with navigating the oftentimes confusing maze of information.

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

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

Gigi's Cupcakes Joins with Chappy's Deli

Gigi’s Cupcakes will host a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to celebrate moving to its new location………just across the street and right inside Chappy’s Deli Peppertree.

The Montgomery Chamber of Commerce event will be held at Chappy’s Deli/Gigi’s Peppertree, 8141 Vaughn Road, on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at 10 AM.

The Barranco family and the Chappy’s Deli team acquired Gigi’s Cupcakes in Montgomery on September 1, 2023. Patrick and Jennifer Cooper, the previous owners, have been baking and swirling Gigi’s cupcakes in Montgomery for 12 sweet years. Both families share the same passion for quality, care, and serving with love ….Chappy’s Deli is committed to continuing this tradition. Gigi’s at Peppertree will offer the same varieties of Mini cupcakes, Gigi’s classic

Cupcakes, fall and seasonal flavors, gluten-friendly options along with assorted cheesecakes and macarons.

For now, Gigi’s Cupcakes is available exclusively at Chappy’s Deli Peppertree, however, future plans are to offer Gigi Cupcakes at each Chappy’s Deli, making them available for dinein, take-out, carhop, delivery, and catering.

The Barranco Family is excited to join the Gigi’s Cupcake Family. David

Barranco said: “It’s a perfect finish to any meal…especially a Chappy’s Deli meal. They are a great pick-me-up, a fun way to celebrate a special day, or brighten any day. Cupcakes are baked and frosted daily in the heart of Gigi’s kitchen, and this fits right in with the freshness and quality Chappy’s Deli offers.”

Chappy’s Deli, founded in 1989, is very grateful to serve the River Region for over 34 years ….offering Southern Hospitality with New York flavor for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and catering at five locations. Serve with Love is the foundation and theme we strive to achieve in every bite, with every guest, and in giving back to our great Community.

For more information, contact Chappy's Deli Office, 334-277-6590 or Laura@chappysdeli.com

Easy Caramel Pumpkin Crumb Cake

Great Way to Start Fall!

This quick, easy, and delicious Caramel Pumpkin Crumb Cake is a classic fall dessert, breakfast, or snack. It’s a perfect buttery, sweet, and salty streusel.

Ingredients:

1 (15.25-ounce) box spice cake mix

1 (15-ounce) can canned pumpkin

2 large eggs

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

12 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 jar caramel sauce (I used caramel ice cream topping.)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. In large bowl, mix together the cake mix, pumpkin, and eggs for about 2 minutes. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared dish.

2. Make the crumb topping by whisking the flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon together in a medium bowl. Slowly drizzle in the butter, stirring with a fork, until a crumb forms and all of the butter has been added. Sprinkle the crumb mixture over the cake batter.

3. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool, then slice and drizzle with the caramel sauce before serving.

Source:

https://southernbite.com/easy-caramel-pumpkin-crumb-cake/

As the seasons change, it can be easy to fall out of a fitness routine. Autumn can be especially busy, but you don't have to let the change of seasons get you off your game. Instead, let it fuel you!

Here are six fun ways to get your fitness goals back on track this fall, with suggestions from the American Council on Exercise and the American Heart Association:

Take some nature time. Find a nearby nature trail for a walk or trail run. You can take in the changing colors of the leaves or savor other beauties of the season while you get in your workout.

Go for a family bike ride. Autumn's cooler temps make bike rides that much more pleasant. Explore the area as a family while working up a sweat.

Up the nostalgia factor. Gather your friends together for a day of outdoor childhood games. Set up a horseshoe station. Play flag football. Or just run around like a kid again.

Change the scenery. Do circuit workouts whenever and wherever the mood strikes. You don't need a gym. Body-weight exercises are just as effective in front of a TV or at the park. Bonus points if you can make your workouts Halloween-themed. Think "pirate" planks or "gargoyle" squats.

Get your training game going. With the holidays approaching, fall is the perfect time to start training for a turkey trot or other holiday fun run.

Tackle a fall fix-up. Spring isn't the only time to give your home a good spruce. Put some extra oomph into yardwork or household chores this fall. They can build strength and stamina—and leave you feeling good about your home as you get ready to spend more time indoors.

It's a common fitness myth that not all exercise counts, but activities like these really do add up!

Fall fitness reboot: 6 ways to stay active

Seamless Air Travel Service to Washington, D.C.

The Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM) recently relaunched its non-stop air service to Washington, D.C., in 2019, and since the strategic addition to the airport's offerings has aimed to provide passengers with enhanced convenience, flexibility, and accessibility for their travel needs. The daily air service provides direct flights between MGM and Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA), offering business and leisure travelers a seamless and time-efficient travel option. With the route, MGM continues demonstrating its commitment to serving the community by expanding its air travel options and connecting residents to key destinations.

Key Benefits of the DCA Air Service:

Convenience: Travelers can enjoy the ease of non-stop daily flights between Montgomery and Washington, D.C., eliminating the need for layovers and minimizing travel time.

Time Savings: The direct air service reduces travel time, allowing passengers to maximize their time in the nation's capital for meetings, sightseeing, visiting friends and family, or even connecting to international destinations.

Accessibility: The route offers increased accessibility for Montgomery residents to access the political, cultural, and economic hub that Washington, D.C. represents. Business Opportunities: The enhanced connectivity can foster new business relationships, facilitate commerce, and support economic growth in the Montgomery region.

"We are fortunate to have this air service to Washington, D.C., providing travelers with a more efficient and convenient way to reach their destination," said Brittney JonesDabney, Marketing and Communications Manager at Montgomery Regional Airport. "We believe this route will benefit our local community and strengthen the ties between Montgomery and the nation's capital."

The DCA air service underscores MGM's dedication to meeting the evolving needs of travelers and bolstering the region's connectivity. This route aligns with the airport's ongoing efforts to enhance its facilities and services, providing a worldclass experience for passengers.

For booking information, flight schedules, and more details about the non-stop air service, please visit Montgomery Regional Airport's website at flymgm.com.

By Nick Thomas

Fractured Phrases

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Any port in a storm. A rolling stone gathers no moss. As kids, we used to delight in taking these old pearls of wisdom and twisting them into nonsense (e.g., “a rolling stone gathers no moths” which, by the way, is valid). Here are a few more mangled idioms you may want to toss into a dull conversation:

– Love means never having to say “Quick, hide in the closet.”

– Dead men tell no fish tales.

– Give a thief enough rope and he’ll escape out the second-floor window.

– Never give a sucker an even break. A compound fracture will really teach him a lesson.

– People in glass houses should sue their architect.

– Behind every successful man is a woman, with a heavy blunt object.

– Oil and water don’t mix, except on Betty Crocker cake box instructions.

– Don’t bite the hand that feeds you without washing it first.

– You can’t judge a crook by his mother.

READ

– If a job’s worth doing, it’s worth having a fast getaway car.

– Never speak ill of the Grateful Dead.

– Don't put all your eggs in one omelet.

– New technology is all geek to me.

– When the chips are down, watch where you’re stepping.

– Cleanliness is next to clearance, in the dictionary.

– Abstinence makes the heart grow fonder.

– A still tongue makes it tough to talk.

– The way to a man’s heart is through his ribcage.

– Nature abhors a vacuum cleaner salesman.

– When everything's coming your way, get off the freeway.

– A good man is hard to find on trash night.

– A stitch in time stops the bleeding.

– Don’t cross your bridges before the final safety inspection.

– A bird in the hand could get messy.

– If you’re on pins and needles, move.

– A watched pot never gets interesting.

– Can’t see the forest for the global deforestation.

– Birds of a feather flock together. Well, obviously, otherwise they wouldn’t be flocking.

– Death by a thousand federal budget cuts.

– If you’re drawing a blank, you need to sharpen your pencil.

- LOVE IT - SHARE IT

Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery in Alabama, and has written features, columns, and interviews for many newspapers and magazines. See www.getnickt.org.

By Jackson Rainer

Reclaiming an Unproductive Day

We've all had days where our get-upand-go got-up-andwent. Ideally, this doesn't happen often, but occasionally, an unproductive day happens. Those are the days that the clock keeps moving forward while we keep falling behind. These needn't be categorized as bad days. Ebbs of productivity can be a problem for any older adult.

Time management experts teach a classic, proven productivity strategy called the Pomodoro technique, a system that encourages people to work with the time they have – rather than against it.

Craig Taylor is retired after more than thirty years of employment as a Chicago city public school counselor. Following completion of his service career, corresponding around the time of the death of his wife, Taylor moved closer to his daughter's family in North Carolina and found managing an abundance of time to be as challenging as managing the scarcity of time.

At 70 years of age, he says, "I am busier now in my silver years than I was at the peak of my counseling career. I was a high achiever then, and I still am. I juggle too many things over the course of the day. Despite my best intentions, I have days that I'm just pooped, burned out or have a case of the 'don't-want-to-doits.' Invariably at the end of one of these days, I feel guilty and frustrated that I've gotten so little accomplished."

Taylor is like many others who become self-punitive for concluding his day with an intact to-do list and nothing to show for it. Recognizing unfocused distractions and procrastinations is essential for reclaiming an unproductive day. Such negative thoughts compromise the ability to begin or complete productive work. Honest acknowledgement of those days where performance is not at its peak allows for a psychological shift to plug back into purposeful activity.

Rethinking Productivity

Some days are particularly trying for any number of reasons, all of which contribute to the dreaded sense of procrastination. Unfinished tasks fall prey to the psychology concept of the Zeigarnik Effect, which states that people tend to remember unfinished or incomplete tasks better than completed tasks.

Knowledge of the effect can be put into effective use in everyday living; it is especially well suited for helping

overcome procrastination. Big tasks that seem overwhelming are often deferred. The Zeigarnik Effect suggests that the key to overcoming procrastination is simply to get started. The first step may be small and seemingly insubstantial.

Research suggests that it is best to do something easy, understanding that the key lies in starting the task, not that it has been completed. The shift in thinking from completion to starting promotes the sense of accomplishment.

Getting Back on Track

Career coaches and psychologists offer help. The tips are oriented to setting goals and prioritizing rather than employing a punitive put-yournose-to-the grindstone mentality. Time management experts teach a classic, proven productivity strategy called the Pomodoro technique. The rubric is a system that encourages people to work with the time they have – rather than against it.

The basic steps are:

1. Choose a single task to focus on.

2. Set a timer for 25 minutes and work only on the selected task.

3. After 25 minutes, take a five-minute break.

4. Repeat steps 1- 3 four times.

5. Take a longer break of about 15 to 30 minutes.

Acknowledging days when we're just not feeling very efficient can help us shift and plug back into purposeful activity.

Using the Pomodoro technique, the work is broken into a 25-minute focus period followed by five-minute breaks. Each of these focus periods, plus a break period, is called a Pomodoro, named after the tomato-shaped timer first used to test the method.

As noted, an unproductive day is marked by procrastination. Recognizing the signs of a lack of accomplishment tends to cause catastrophic thoughts, such as "I feel stupid" or "Nothing is going according to plan." Rather than indulging these negative thoughts, reframe selftalk toward more balanced and realistic considerations. This can be accomplished by a brief change of scenery and a resetting of the work environment.

Taylor says, "If I'm not productively efficient, I'll go for a walk, set my top priority and recognize that I am defeating myself with harmful feelings about my inability to begin, much less complete,

productive work. I give myself a bit of grace for my humanity and realize that there are many times that I'm not working at peak performance."

Moving Forward

Taylor uses another time management technique once he has bounced into a better place. "It is a good idea to step back and add structure to my day. This helps me to avoid creating a pattern of unproductive days. As I continue to adjust to retirement, I've found that there is comfort in routine. I try to keep a loose but routine daily schedule. I keep the same bedtime and rising time. I have a general idea of what tasks are allocated to which days."

It is important to hold things in perspective and not be too rigid. Orient to setting goals and priorities, then triage them by identifying what absolutely requires attention on a particular day. Such an identification process tends to

whittle down a long to-do list, making the day more manageable.

Years ago, stress experts found that removing pressure and burden increases the capacity for task focus and productivity. Once plugged back in, that to-do list may be revisited for another round of prioritization. Most time management experts suggest a general framework rather than overmanaging a schedule.

As Taylor said, "I try to take a bigger picture. I have my list made for day and week, not hour by hour when I was employed as a school counselor. I do need the general framework, or time passes by without me even noticing it."

Jackson Rainer is a board-certified clinical psychologist practicing with CHRIS 180 Counseling Center DeKalb in Atlanta. He may be contacted at jacksonprainer@gmail.com.

Source: www.nextavenue.org

Thanks for Reading BOOM!

Why Vitality Is the Key to Aging Well

Top tips to thrive beyond 65

Vitality is the key to overall health, allowing us to pursue life with strength and energy. As we age, maintaining vitality becomes an even greater priority to ensure a fulfilling and active lifestyle. The good news is older adults believe themselves to have higher levels of vitality than other demographics, according to a study by Cigna.

There are numerous strategies and lifestyle choices that can significantly improve vitality and promote a healthier, more vibrant life full of energy and joy for years to come. Start with small, actionable steps you can take every day to feel healthier, stronger and more engaged – at home, with friends and family and in your community.

Consider some of these essential tips to fuel your vitality:

Cultivate your purpose.

Prioritize activities and connections that bring you fulfillment and joy. Dedicate time to your mental wellbeing and passions – even small adjustments, such as pursuing creative or aspirational hobbies, can enhance a greater sense of purpose.

Contribute to your community. Embracing altruism is a powerful tool for personal growth, and actively participating in acts of kindness or community service will improve your positive outlook and foster a deep sense of belonging. Volunteering with friends and family offers a wonderful opportunity to strengthen bonds and build connections. Consider activities at your local YMCA or exploring community-based volunteering opportunities to get involved.

Prioritize your health by not neglecting preventive screenings. Be proactive with your preventive care so you can stay healthy and active. Consult with your doctor about important screenings based on your age and health status.

Practice reflection. Take 10 minutes out of your day to journal positive aspects of your day and areas for improvement or go for a brisk 10-minute walk to boost your

energy level and contemplate your thoughts.

Choose healthier snacks. What you put into your body directly impacts your vitality. Set yourself up for success by making good food choices. Have healthy snack choices on hand, such as in-season fresh fruits and pre-cut vegetables. Stay hydrated with water and tea rather than sugary drinks.

Embrace learning.

Choose a topic or skill that intrigues you and delve into it. Learning something new not only boosts confidence and happiness, but also stimulates brain health. Athlete, entrepreneur and philanthropist Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr. is 64 years old and understands this important aspect of aging well.

"Learning is a lifelong process," Johnson said. "Many times in my life I've entered into new ventures and had to draw upon the experiences of experts to help me make wise decisions.

Incorporating these tips into our daily lives can enhance vitality. Start small, be consistent and celebrate each milestone on the path to a more vibrant and fulfilling life!

2023 Alabama Fall Color Trail

Alabama is beautiful throughout the year but especially in the fall. As the greens of summer surrender to glittering yellow poplars, scarlet dogwoods, orange maples and golden hickories, Alabama unfolds its patchwork quilt of color. This blend of brilliant autumn foliage, coupled with cooler temperatures and an occasional gentle breeze, makes for an unforgettable experience. Fall colors will begin showing in the mountains of North Alabama in early October and then sweep across the region. Colors will be at their peak from late October to early November.

At Oak Mountain State Park (1) in Pelham, take in the view from Peavine Overlook and Peavine Falls. Head north to Oneonta/Blount County (2) and enjoy the color from Horton Mill, Old Easley or Swann covered bridges and Palisades Park. Take the drive on I-59 up Whitney Mountain near Oneonta, and proceed up U.S. 231. In Cullman/Cullman County (3), the Ave Maria Grotto and the 277-foot-long, 90-foot-high Clarkson Covered Bridge offer excellent views, as do scenic drives U.S. 31 and 278. From Bankhead National Forest, (4) take AL 195 to Double Springs, to AL 33, then take Forest Service roads 249, 262, 245 and 255 to CO 63 and back to AL 33.

Developed from a network of Indian trails between Natchez, Miss., and Nashville, Tenn., the Natchez Trace (5) cuts diagonally across the northwestern corner of the state. Follow the entire 33 miles of the Trace through Alabama and head to Joe Wheeler State Park (6). Admire the view from the Joe Wheeler Dam near the cabin area on the Lawrence County side. After leaving U.S. 72, take a four-mile scenic drive into the park's resort area on the Lauderdale County side. In Huntsville, Monte Sano State Park (7) offers beautiful foliage on Warpath Ridge Trail and its overlooks. Take scenic drives U.S. 72 out of Scottsboro and U.S. 431 out of Guntersville. A recommended viewing spot in Scottsboro/Jackson County (8) is Russell Cave National Monument. Scenic drives: AL 79 across Skyline Mountain, AL 279, AL 65 through the Paint Rock River Valley, and U.S. 72.

See Lake Guntersville State Park (9) from the lodge atop the mountain, then take AL 227 through the park and into Buck's Pocket State Park and nearby DeKalb and Etowah counties. In Gadsden/Etowah County (10), Noccalula Falls Park provides a bounty of fall color, as do drives on US 278, 11 and 411. Head to Ft. Payne and check out DeSoto State Park and Lodge, DeSoto Falls and Little River Canyon (11). Lookout Mountain Parkway, DeSoto Parkway and Old DeSoto Parkway provide lovely views. AL 176, part of Lookout Mountain Parkway, includes scenic overlooks of Little River Canyon. Finally, Cheaha State Park (12) is the highest point in the state at 2,407 feet above sea level. Enjoy fall color from Bald Rock and Pulpit Rock trails as well as Talladega Scenic Drive, Skyline Drive and Skyway Motorway. For info visit https://alabama.travel/trail-details/fall-color-trail

By Elaine Soloway

My Children Will Have to Support Me In My Old Age

So, why do I feel so ashamed?

My widowed mother was left with debts and a bare bank account. So, she married an older man she thought wealthy. "I don't want to be a burden to my kids," she said.

Remarriage is not my goal, but I'm in the same boat as Mom. And mine is sinking.

In a little over a year, my retirement funds will be gone. My only income will be Social Security.

Fortunately, I have two adult children who have pledged to support me. But does that require them to sustain me in a posh high-rise? Do they have to pay the membership of my tony health club?

But more importantly, how do I handle my shame?

It's not my children who are placing this shroud around my aging neck. They are proud of their ability to step in. The cloud hovers only over me.

This is what I can't understand. I have always worked. I taught grammar school prior to my first marriage in 1960. I worked for a major real estate company.

I was a press aide for Chicago Mayor Jane Byrne and School Superintendent Ruth Love. A big city mayor! A system of 649 schools and 341,382 students!

I am not without credentials. But evidently, I am diminished by a severe planning deficit. And the solution selected by my late dear mother holds no appeal.

My shame is linked to a resume that included my own PR agency that represented nonprofit organizations. I can give you names for references.

Unlike Mom, there was a time when I was flush with funds. When my first spouse and I divorced in 1996, we split the sale of our Chicago home. I was all set.

I remarried in 1998. My second husband Tommy was a dream of a mate. He entered our union with his modest life savings, which he turned over to our joint bank account. Blissful in this fresh union, I suggested we retire. We were in our late sixties, both with Social

Security, and my remaining funds.

Then the financial crisis of 2008 hit. My balance sheet was cut in half. Somehow, I was not worried.

Tommy died in 2012. I sold our home and moved to my current neighborhood. Rents continue to rise. My retirement funds slide in the opposite direction.

What I didn't count on was living this long. I turned 85 in August. My father died at 45, mother at 67. How could I live to this old age? I'm currently heathy. If an accident or errant cell doesn't intervene, I could live into my 90s.

Fearful of Being a Burden

I wonder if others my age are in similar situations. Most may not be as fortunate as I. They may not have children who pledge to prevent my relocation to humbler quarters.

But then there's the shame. How could a woman as competent as I, with an employment record so stellar, wind up a burden to her children, like my mom feared?

Any changes in the steps I've outlined could've altered the outcome. I could

"Like my widowed mother, I don't want to be a burden to my kids. But I will not replicate her route, which turned out tragic." Credit: Getty

have chosen a wealthy fella for my second spouse. Why didn't I? My marriage to Tommy brought riches of love, respect, happiness. That was a worthy bargain.

I am proud of my talented offspring. But they have children of their own. Expenses to fuel their careers. Responsibilities I'm not aware of. Why do they have to fund my old age?

I'm considering downsizing. I could move out of this classy neighborhood and find one more affordable. I could end my membership in my high-class health club.

My children would still have to pay my rent, but it would be considerably less. There are many neighborhoods where I think I can be happy. All I need is access to a park so my dog Doris can romp. I know there are those who read this and want to throw a brick my way. "What is she complaining about? She will never

be on the street or worry about her next meal. She should shut up and count her bIessings." I agree.

Like my widowed mother, I don't want to be a burden to my kids. But I will not replicate her route, which turned out tragic. Her husband was a cheapskate, suffered dementia, and outlived her by many years.

While I'm more fortunate than my mother, that doesn't shrink my shame. How could I have witnessed her last years and now have my hand out to my children?

I'm grateful my kids are stepping up. But how do I handle the disappointment I feel about myself?

Elaine Soloway Elaine Soloway is a PR consultant, writing coach and tech tutor, and the author of Bad Grandma and Other Chapters in a Life Lived Out Loud and Green Nails and Other Acts of Rebellion: Life After Loss. The Emmy Award-winning

television series 'Transparent' was created by Elaine Soloway's child Joey and inspired by their family. Follow Elaine on Facebook, Twitter @elainesoloway and Instagram.

Source: www.nextavenue.org

By Nancy Monson

Navigate a Serious Illness

Michele Foley is not the type to overshare. In fact, after she went through successful treatment for malignant metastatic melanoma in 2015, she rarely spoke about her medical ordeal. "I didn't want to tell too many people about my diagnosis and treatment because I didn't want to bring them down," she recalls. "It was too sad and too personal."

But when her son Andrew enrolled in a health storytelling class and asked his mother to participate in a project with him for the class, she overcame her hesitancy. "He said it could be helpful to other people… and surprisingly, it turned out to be therapeutic for me, too."

In fact, she experienced a ripple effect when she read her story out loud to others. At the conclusion, she notes, "At least 12 people came up to me and thanked me for sharing and said that they, too, had tried not to tell many people about their illness. Like me, they wanted to protect them. That was a very powerful moment for me."

Dr. Annie Brewster, the Harvard physician leading the class and author (with journalist Rachel Zimmerman) of "The Healing Power of Storytelling: Using Personal Narrative to Navigate Illness, Trauma, and Loss," says, "Human beings are hardwired to tell stories about their experiences, and we all feel less alone and more connected when we tell our stories in the community."

Brewster is the founder of Health Story Collaborative (HSC). This nonprofit group provides opportunities for people to engage with others, share their stories and hear from others navigating similar health struggles.

The impetus for HSC came from Brewster's experience of being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at 32. The diagnosis was at odds with how she saw herself — a doctor in training, an athlete, a mother and a wife. "I had always convinced myself that I could get what I wanted as long as I tried hard enough," she says, "but I couldn't try myself out of MS."

Although she was able to finish her training and begin her career as a doctor, her body eventually reminded her of the stark reality. Fearing that her illness and the label of "sick person" would define her, she decided to embrace it as just one part of the whole that is her.

"I couldn't deny my MS anymore because I was having symptoms," she says, "but I could find a way to redefine my illness

so it didn't dictate my life. This allowed me to get 'unstuck' and move forward." In tandem with this realization, she shared her experience on a radio program in Boston and then in the "Well" column of The New York Times.

"Once the truth about my MS was public, I felt like a fuller version of myself. Telling my story made me feel lighter, stronger and less alone," she says. Bolstered by research showing that storytelling can improve mental and physical health and can be healing, she decided that facilitating story writing and story sharing would become her life's work.

How to Tell Your Health Story

"We are all faced with moments in our lives that we can't control," Brewster says, "but what we can control is what we decide to focus on and how we want to move forward. We can take charge of the story we tell ourselves and others."

The process isn't easy, though, says Foley, and it requires re-living some painful memories. "I did about 10 to 20 drafts of my story, and Dr. Brewster and her colleague Dr. Jonathan Adler kept asking me to dig deeper into what I was thinking about my cancer experience rather than how it was affecting others or how generous they had been toward me."

They also encouraged her to write the story and not worry about how she wrote it, which was difficult for her as an English teacher. She says,"I wanted the essay to be pretty, and I focused on the

Here's how storytelling can connect you to others and help you reclaim your well-being

writing more than on what I was saying. I even threw in some poetry!"

Brewster reinforces the notion of authenticity over style, saying, "You want to think about what your experience means to you, not what it will mean to other people, and you want to home in on a salient story or scene that demonstrates how you felt at the time."

To help you write your own story, you can see examples of others' stories on the HSC website and in Brewster's book. She has also created some writing prompts to initiate the process, starting with finding a quiet space where you can be alone to think and remember. Then:

1. Strive to get a first draft down, no matter how rudimentary or rough. Remember, you want to focus on the writing process, what your story means to you, and how you felt, rather than on the audience that might read your story or the writing style.

2. Think about a scene from before you became ill that represents who you were then and what was important to you. Be

specific — rather than writing about a trip, write about a particular dinner you had and how you felt about it.

3. Next, think about how you felt when you received your diagnosis and after as you processed the experience.

4. Look back to remember what was the most challenging part of your experience.

5. Finally, write about something positive from the experience.

Revise and Revise Again

And then comes the revising. As any writer will tell you, the first draft is never the final draft. "We know from the scientific literature that focusing on key narrative themes can be therapeutic," says Brewster, "and so we encourage people to think about these themes as they revise their stories." They include:

• Coherence — crafting a story that makes sense and is easy to follow;

• Agency — finding what you have control over in your life even amid illness;

• Communion — feeling bonded with others and a part of a group; and

• Redemption — seeing the good that can come from bad situations.

Revelations Through Writing

"It's a staggering thing to face the reality of a medical crisis," says Foley, "but you can come to a place where you believe you are going to be all right — and telling your story can be a huge tool in that process if you do the work to find what is meaningful to you from the experience." Brewster adds, "Living with MS and telling my story have made me a better person. I am more open, empathetic and tolerant. I am more mindful and a better listener. I am also a better doctor, and I appreciate the impact of my words and actions on my patients. Storytelling has changed my life, and I hope it can change yours, too."

Source www.nextavenue.org

Nancy Monson is a writer, artist and coach. She is the author of "Craft to Heal: Soothing Your Soul with Sewing, Painting, and Other Pastimes," Connect with her on Instagram.

My Victory Garden

I grew up in an urban area of South Florida and had very little gardening experience as a child. We had a lawn service, and my family did not take much interest in the beautiful green yard. I do remember the sweet scent of Gardenia, night-blooming Jasmine, and orange blossoms in my backyard, but I was not a gardener!

My first introduction to gardening was actually Aquaculture, I had a one-year wait to enter nursing school, and I worked at a tropical fish farm, raising aquatic plants for distribution worldwide. The fish were raised in Olympic-sized pools that were above ground, and the aquatic plants were in raised beds filled with sand and about a foot of water. I wasn't particularly 'outdoorsy’, but, I found myself enjoying the sunshine, fresh air, and wildlife, as well as watching the plants grow. We were at the mercy of nature, we could not harvest the aquatic plants in the rain, as you couldn't see the plants when the water surface was disturbed.

I remember asking my mother about her childhood, and she told me that her mother, little brother, and she were poor, but they didn't know they were poor because everyone had Victory Gardens, grew their own

vegetables, raised chickens, brewed their own beer, reused, and mended and recycled everything. She did not talk about her early life much. In retrospect, I guess they were tough times, better forgotten. Fast forward 50 years, and I found myself in Montgomery, AL. I have been through some drama and trauma and found that being outdoors in nature was a great adjunct to my therapy. I began The Master Gardener Course and have volunteered at Eat South and the Shakespeare Gardens at Blount Cultural Park. As I enjoyed the camaraderie, fresh air, birds, and bees, my anxiety was creeping up on me.... I HAVE TO WRITE AN ARTICLE!!! I'm in high school all over again! The fear, the loathing. What can I write about? I wracked my brain, I had no thoughts, I had zero experience gardening, I can't do this!

By: Cathi

I was losing sleep, I was stressed, and I had no inspiration.... I was praying for divine intervention... and you never know where you will find it... We had a flood during the great Christmas Freeze of 2022...the house and most of the contents are trashed, but I opened a moldy box a few days ago and found a few undamaged items, and two of them were paperback books, Health For Victory Meal Planning Guides from

1943 and 44! I had an inspiration! I am planning a Victory Garden as well.

My Victory Garden will be produced for me and my beloved family. Each Grandchild will have a plot or a row of their own. This will be in honor and in memory of family and the past, and with great hope for the future.

Cathi Musicant, an intern in the 2022 Master Gardener Class, lives in Montgomery. For more information on becoming a master gardener, visit www.capcitymag.org or email capcitymag@gmail.com.

War Era Victory Gardens Making a Comeback

War Era Victory Poster

Family Gardening for Victory

Fall Term at AUM OLLI

The 2023 Fall Term at AUM OLLI began September 18, 2023, with a rich schedule of courses, Bonus Opportunities, Lunch Presentations, and Field Trips. Even though the classes have been meeting for several weeks, there are still numerous opportunities to get involved. There are Field Trips, Lunch Presentations, and Bonus Opportunities available for registration.

October 6 or October 13 are the first Field Trips scheduled for the Fall Term: tours of the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Plant. Because Hyundai allows a limited number of people on each tour, we have scheduled the two options to accommodate as many OLLI members as might be interested. The other field trips are to the

Auburn University Raptor Center and to the Alabama Governor’s Mansion for the Christmas Candlelight Tour.

Lunch Presentations include a presentation by AUM’s current chancellor, Dr. Carl Stockton, and one by former chancellor, Dr. Guin Nance. OLLI members will also hear a speaker from the Department of Senior Services and see a demonstration by the Military Working Dogs of the 42nd Security Forces Squadron.

Bonus Opportunities include a Potluck Lunch and two book discussion groups (one in Montgomery and one in Selma). The lunch, scheduled for Thursday, October 5, from 11:35 a.m. – 12:35 p.m., is a wonderful time to get

acquainted with OLLI staff, members, and instructors while enjoying a good meal.

All these options require membership in AUM OLLI ($40.00 annual membership) and registration for the event. Some of the field trips also have fees for transportation.

Details about these opportunities and a place to register for OLLI membership are available at the AUM OLLI website. Go to www.aum.edu/OLLI for the catalog and a place to register.

Travel Experiences with Jeff Barganier

Photography by Jeff Barganier

The Mentone Inn

One of our favorite destinations in Alabama is the village of Mentone atop Lookout Mountain near Ft. Payne. And an awesome place to lodge is the historic Mentone Inn. We didn’t go there intending to write a story, but for a muchneeded getaway. It was August and the heat in the River Region was, in a word, oppressive. We wanted a cooler place to chillout without having to drive all the way to North Carolina. “It’s a sleepy little village where strangers meet and become friends—a taste of the mountains when you can’t have the real mountains,” Cindy says.

When she called the Inn for a reservation, Cindy ended up talking with Innkeeper Cynthia Stinson. They were both surprised to learn of our shared connections to Greenville, Alabama. Like us, Cynthia grew up in the Camellia City Her mother and my grandmother both

worked for Boss Manufacturing Company for many years. Boss was once the largest maker of work gloves in the world. The historic mill with its distinctive red brick and colossal blue windows has been razed—a sad reminder of the decimated American textile industry. But, suffice it to say, not all historic structures have been demolished.

The Mentone Inn built 1926-27 is not to be confused with the Mentone Springs Inn built 1884-1887. The latter Queen Anne-styled inn, that used to be across the street from the Mentone Inn, burned to the ground in 2014.

Fortunately, the stone and clapboard Mentone Inn is still alive and well; and continues to charm guests via its wide

wraparound porch, cozy wicker seating groups and rocking chairs. The Inn features twelve guest rooms with private baths. (Our bed was super comfortable.) There’s a covered pavilion with a stone fireplace out back for entertainment or group meetings. If you’re lucky, a mountain band will be performing and get your toes tapping. Cynthia’s daughter operates a food truck on the grounds and her cuisine is excellent. You can grab dinner and dine on the porch or, if you prefer, step inside to the dining room. The Inn is perfect for a family reunion, church retreat, club meeting or wedding. They even offer on-site catering and have a wedding planner. Adjacent the Inn is a quaint chapel where the scene of a movie was filmed years ago in which Cindy, her father and our daughter were seen sitting on a pew.

Of course, you can always sit on the porch and play checkers. But there are

Mentone Inn

Living Room @ Mentone Inn

Jeff with Innkeeper Cynthia Stinson

other fun things to do. A not-too-distant drive along the ridge leads to the stunning falls at Desoto State Park. Or you can walk to a nearby scenic overlook and enjoy the sunset. If you happen to stay at the Inn on the one day out of the year that has sufficient snowfall, you might go skiing at Cloud Mont. And Little River Canyon is a short drive. If you’ve never visited this “Grand Canyon of the South” that stopped Sherman’s army dead in its tracks, it’s worth seeing. We barely missed the “Longest Yard Sale in the World” that starts in Michigan and ends in Alabama. With fall comes colorful leaves, and Mentone Colorfest is the 3rd week in October. This arts and crafts show makes the quiet village of Mentone come alive with artists, musicians, local chefs, visiting patrons, and even nature’s animals. It’ll be wonderful meandering weather in Mentone’s clean, crisp mountain air for families far and wide—which is why I had to get this feature in the October issue of

BOOM! just for you. Don’t forget to find a dark place and go stargazing. You may also wish to mark your calendar for the Rhododendron Festival the 3rd weekend in May.

The only local restaurant I’m truly familiar with is the Wildflower. I can’t remember what I ate there—soup and salad, maybe? But I do remember the people were hospitable and the food quite enjoyable. I always try and eat lunch there when I’m passing close to Mentone. The quaint café is a short walk from the Inn. If breakfast is your favorite meal of the day, you’ll love Cynthia’s (guests-only) buffet spread in the morning. Coffee’s at 6:00. Breakfast at 9:00. Don’t miss her homemade biscuits, best-ever egg and hashbrown casseroles, Conecuh sausage, grits, and, wait for it, famous apple pastry. I think it’s all you can eat. I’ll put it this way: It was all I could eat.

The Inn seems to have a magical proclivity for relationship building.

Cynthia told us how two different groups of people became fast friends during the breakfast hour this year, and they all made

reservations for the same days next year. Coincidentally, we made friends with yet another couple from Greenville, guests Wayne and Pam Ingram. Wayne’s a retired firefighter, and Pam is a registered nurse. They were touring North Alabama on their big, apple-red Harley. One former guest wrote, “The innkeeper took us on a tour of this amazing place, and if walls could talk, the stories they would share of the many memories made here. The fun thing is that the most amazing innkeeper, who lives in the Inn, is able to share so many stories about the Inn and does so week after

week, month after month, year after year as if it’s her first time with joy and passion. This innkeeper doesn’t just run Mentone Inn from her smart business sense and mind. She truly runs it one hundred percent from the love in her heart for her guests … and for Mentone Inn.”

How could I not write about the Inn, too? Go see for yourself. Tell Cynthia, Jeff and Cindy sent you.

Jeff S. Barganier is a novelist, travel writer and manager of Cindy Barganier Interiors LLC. He travels far and wide upon the slightest excuse for something interesting to write about. Contact: Jeffbarganier@knology.net Instagram: @jeffbarganier . You may print out Jeff’s features at www.jeffbarganier.com

Mountain Sunset

Desoto Falls

Up the Mountain

This & tHAT i

Haystack Festival - Montgomery Whitewater, October 20 & 21

Ho Ho Ho, Cotton State Santas

Montgomery Whitewater is excited to present Haystack Festival! Named after a whitewater paddling term used to describe a series of big, fun, and obstacle-free waves, Haystack will feature free live music on both Friday and Saturday night as well as outdoor activities for all ages. Come out and join us for yoga, Lil Tri kid’s triathlon, and a Kid’s Lot with lawn games, festival face painting, slacklines, tie-dye station and more! Daily whitewater activities will also be available through the weekend. Bring a chair, your family, and friends! It’s going to be another great weekend at Montgomery Whitewater! Friday and Saturday October 20/21. For more info https://montgomerywhitewater.com/upcomingevents/haystack-festival/

The Farmer's Market Cafe was site of a jolly gathering as over 70 Santas and Mrs. Clauses visited Montgomery for the bi-monthly meeting of "Cotton States Santas", an Alabama chapter of IBRBS - The International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas. Montgomery's River Region Santa along with a team of local Santa performers welcomed the guests with an excellent meal and program featuring "Santa Slate", a Montgomery-based African-American Santa who shared his story. This was the first time the group chose Montgomery as a meeting place and as CSS President Steve Rusk of Gardendale mentioned "The Capital City is a great location! She opened up and treated us well." The visitors left with gift bags consisting of a Montgomery guide book, a sample of ALAGA hot sauce, and anticipation of another excellent visit next year. Cotton States Santas are a group of over 200 professional Christmas Entertainers who meet regularly for fellowship and education. Meetings are held in different locations across the state. The next meeting will be in May at Guntersville.

Opelika Main Street Presents On the Tracks: A Wine Event

America's Band, The Beach Boys @ MPAC May 17

Everyone's favorite fall event is back! The annual "On the Tracks" wine trail event is happening on Oct. 20, 2023, in downtown Opelika. The streets of downtown Opelika will be filled with live music, fellowship, and wine trail stops featuring a diverse array of wine samples. Food trucks will also be featured at the event, as well as late night shopping at local retail spots! This event is hosted by Opelika Main Street. Participants must be 21 or older to purchase a ticket. Tickets are $40 and will be on sale until October 19.

As The Beach Boys mark more than a half century of making music, the group continues to ride the crest of a wave unequalled in America’s musical history. The Beach Boys –who have become synonymous with the California lifestyle and an American icon, are bringing their shows to fans around the world. Since the band’s co-founder, lead-singer and chief lyricist Mike Love penned the lyrics to The Beach Boys’ first hit, “Surfin’” (1961), dozens of the bands chart toppers have become eternal anthems of American youth: “Surfin’ USA,” “Surfer Girl,” “Fun, Fun, Fun,” “I Get Around,” “California Girls,” “Help Me Rhonda,” “Barbara Ann,” “Good Vibrations,” “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” “Rock and Roll Music” and “Kokomo.” The Beach Boys have sold over 100 million records worldwide and have received more than 33 RIAA Platinum and Gold record awards. The Rock And Roll Hall of Famers where also honored at the 2001 Grammy Awards with the Lifetime Achievement Award. With more than five decades of touring under their belts, The Beach Boys have performed more concerts than any major rock band in history. Montgomery performance at MPAC, Wednesday, May 17. For tickets visit www.mpaconline.org

Join us on Oct. 19 - 21 as artists from across the River Region and beyond bring their unique talents and creative spirits to our hometown for the 12th Annual Pike Road Plein Air Paint Out! Plein air painting is fast-paced, outside (plein air is French for “outdoors”) and focuses on landscapes and scenes' ever-changing light and colors. Pike Road Arts Council Coordinator, Patty Payne, welcomes and invites the whole community to join in the fun of the Pike Road, Alabama 2023 Paint Out featuring Alabama Plein Air Artists. This year’s theme is “Unique Spaces, Special Places." Participating artists will be out and about during the weekend, capturing the unique rural charm and treasured community characteristics that make the Town of Pike Road such a special place to live and visit. We encourage everyone to stop, say hello, and share that Pike Road “Welcome Home” hospitality as artists disperse and paint around the Town. We look forward to seeing the familiar faces of artists who have been painting with us for the last 12 years, and we welcome new artists joining us for the first time! Register by emailing Patty Payne: patty@pikeroad.us.

Free Digital Subscriptions at www.RiverRegionBoom.com

12th Annual Pike Road Plein Air Paint Out!

David Brewer Singers

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

The David Brewer Singers will present an evening of Gospel Music at Jan's Beach House located at 850 Eastern Blvd in Montgomery. There will be great food and drinks and great Gospel Music from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Call your friends and plan for an evening of fun and fellowship! Tuesday, October 17, Tuesday, November 21, and Tuesday, December 19

Brunch for Widows @ Frazer Church

Limited Seating, registration deadline Tuesday, October 17 at 5:00 p.m. Join us for a morning of laughter, encouragement, and testimony with great food. Our speaker for this event is Ahna Baggett & music will be provided by Jordan Sullivan. The event will be held in Room 8114 of the John Ed Mathison Activity Center (JEMAC). Please register using the QR code or contact Donna below so we know you're coming.Contact Donna Hendrick with any questions, dhendrick@frazer. church, phone, 334-495-6391.

This & tHAT i

Memoir Shares Buffalo Soldier’s Return to Italian Region He Helped Liberate During WWII

WIN THIS BOOK

Text "Buffalo Soldier" to 334.324.3472 then you'll be entered to win a copy of “Black Warriors”

A new book shares an autobiographical account of Ivan J. Houston's inspiring personal experience returning back to Italy seven decades after liberating the Tuscany region from the Axis powers during World War II. The memoir shares a little-known history and features the country that recognizes and honors the importance of the Black soldiers that freed them. Although Houston died before completing the book, his son, Ivan A. Houston, completed the book, incorporating personal stories from some of the Italians his father has made such an impact on. The book also features images from the people and places Houston visited during his seven consecutive trips back to Italy, from 2012 to 2019. “The pictures represented Dad’s feelings, and he was representing the Buffalo Soldiers. Italy is one of the few places they teach about Buffalo Soldiers.” “Dad wanted to get the story out about the Buffalo Soldiers and their impact in Italy,” said Ivan A. “While many hear about the Tuskegee airmen, Dad was part of the group on the ground walking. He didn’t like to walk, but it showed him a whole country that was grateful.”

Caregiver of the Month Spotlight: Jada Smith

Jada has been with HCA since January of this year. She may be small in stature but she's a force to be reckoned with. Her beautiful smile and calming spirit has the clients begging for her to come assist them ALL The TIME. She's loved by everyone she comes into contact with. She symbolizes the meaning of the word “Caregiver”: "ears that always listen, arms that hug and hold, love that's never ending and has a heart that is made of GOLD." Home Care Assistance is so happy to have her as a part of our team and we pray she knows it!!

We appreciate your hard work and dedication, thank you for a job Well Done!!

Octoberfest Community Festival

Saturday, October 7, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.: 2nd Annual Oktoberfest Festival, Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, Montgomery 36116 – Free Admission, Open to the Public - Outdoor Festival Under the Cedars - Music by the John Bull Trio (12 noon) and Tommy & Kay (3 p.m.) – German & American Food

Off Your Purchase

Please present coupon or mention you saw it in the BOOM! Digital Issue. Offer Expires 10/31/2023

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

Capital City Master Gardener Association presents Lunch & Learn, the 1st Wednesday of Every Month from 12-1 pm. They will meet at Montgomery Cultural Arts Center (Armory Learning Arts Building), 1018 Madison Ave., Montgomery 36104. Mark your calendars, October 4, “Trees for Montgomery Prairie Soils” Russell Stringer, Montgomery City Arborist, will present “Trees for Montgomery Prairie Soils” Montgomery County has several soil types. Which trees are best for sandy soil or prairie soil? How tall do these trees get? What should I consider before planting trees in my landscape? Are there suggestions for how close to plant trees near my home? These are some of the questions that Russell will answer in his presentation. If you need advice about trees, this is a program you won’t want to miss.

November 1, “Planting Bulbs & Tubers for Next Year’s Bloomers” Karen Weber, Master Gardener, will present “Planting Bulbs & Tubers for Next Year’s Bloomers”.

Did you know that flowering bulbs in the Spring are planted in the Fall? What types of bulbs work well in this region? Where can I find a variety of bulbs? How deep are they planted? Do I have to worry about spacing them in my garden? Karen will have answers for you. Come join us!

BRING A SACK LUNCH, FREE PROGRAM, WATER PROVIDED, For information, please contact the Montgomery County Extension Office 334.270.4133. Also visit www.capcitymga.org

Evelyn Garrett Senior Living Specialist

Work in the senior living field is endless, but the reward is eternal. It is challenging for families to navigate the puzzling years of dementia and physical changes with their loved ones. We are here to help!

This month’s cover profile is Evelyn Garrett, she is the Executive Director of Haven Memory Care on Halcyon, located in Montgomery. Evelyn grew up in Montgomery and has worked in senior living facilities in south Alabama to north Alabama and within the last year has relocated back to Montgomery with Haven Memory Care. It takes a passion to care for seniors, and she and her staff value each and every resident in their care. We recently had a chance to get to know Evelyn and we think you’ll enjoy getting to know her as much as we have. Enjoy the read and please share her story.

BOOM!: Please give us a brief biography, i.e. are you from the Montgomery area, did you raise your family here, schools, marriage, family, etc?

Evelyn: I am a native Montgomerian, but I have been away from Montgomery for many years. My parents and their siblings grew up here, so I had lots of family around as a child. I had grandparents on both sides, aunts and uncles, and many cousins right here in Montgomery! We all lived close together and mostly went to school together. My father was an identical twin. When we were young children, my family, and my Daddy’s twin’s family lived one door apart. We had three girls, and they had three boys, so that made a life filled with fun and activity. It felt almost like we were one big family enjoying long summer days, carpools, vacations, and new bicycles on Christmas morning. Some years later, when we moved, we still lived close together in the same neighborhood. My father’s older brother

and his family even lived down the street.

To make it even nicer, my parents were raised here, and they

had childhood friends who were also raising their families in Montgomery, which gave us even closer family-like friendships. It was an almost “storybook” place to grow up. I, in turn, raised my children here... How could I resist the charm and legacy Montgomery held?

Eventually, as our children married

and started having their children, we began to feel the pull of family ties. We had been spread out between Dallas, Nashville, Birmingham, and Auburn. Because they all lived in different cities, it seemed that my husband and I were beginning to spend almost every weekend driving to one place or another to see them. Finally, late one Sunday evening, after a long drive home from a weekend visit to Nashville, Tennessee, my husband said,” We are just going to have to move closer to our family.” We believe that close proximity to our grandparents played a critical role in our development and happiness; our hope/aim/desire is to do the same for our grandchildren. So we have been very intentional about living as close to our children as possible to keep our family close.

BOOM!: Evelyn, you are the Executive Director at Haven Memory Care on Halcyon, in Montgomery. Would you please share your journey on how you became involved with senior living care?

Evelyn: When our youngest child went to college, my husband’s work took us

Granddaughter Sarah Hampton sharing lemonade with her Nonnie

Evelyn loves to celebrate every occasion

to Fairhope, Alabama. It was a lovely place to live, and we put down roots while we were there. That is actually how I became involved in the senior living industry. My husband’s mother was living alone and determined the time was right for her to move to a Senior Living Community. We visited a place called Homestead Village, which is owned by Community Senior Life, the company I am employed to this day.

I like to say that my mother-in-law and I went to Senior and Assisted Living together! We both liked the community and established an immediate rapport with Vicki Gordon Wagner, the Community Development Director. During our tour of Homestead Village, Vicki casually asked if I would be interested in working there. She said, “I can see you would be a good fit working with seniors.” I never dreamed she was serious!! Late that afternoon, Vicki called and asked me if I would apply for the Business Office Manager’s position, which I did. My mother-in-law moved into her new apartment the same week I joined the company … and the rest “is history.”

Community Senior Life (CSL) is a family of not-for-profit healthcare-related organizations specializing in senior independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities in Fairhope, Foley, Gulf Shores, Madison, and Montgomery, Alabama. Dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for an ever-growing senior population, each Community Senior Life family organization offers a service tailored to senior citizens' lifestyle needs while preserving their dignity. The longer I am involved with the CSL company, the more I admire and appreciate all it stands for.

BOOM!: Please describe Haven Memory Care's quality services to its residents and their families? What have been some of the challenges and rewards in your work? What are some of your greatest joys in caring for memory-impaired seniors? How would you advise families caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia on the next life stages for their loved ones?

Evelyn: Work in the senior living field is endless, but the reward is eternal. It is challenging for families to navigate the puzzling years of dementia and physical changes with their loved ones. We are here to help! That is my tagline. We are not a substitute for family or friends. We help and support the family and friends of the person living with dementia in its many forms and nuances. It brings great joy to look into the faces of our seniors and realize that they are peaceful, well-fed, having fun with friends, and unafraid. In turn, their family can continue their role as daughter, son, or spouse and let us be the “caregivers.” It lends a bit

All four of us! Maureen Parks (my mother in center front ), sister Tricia Dunn (left) me in the back and sister Maureen Forston (right)

The Garrett Family, Standing: Jacob, Mary Evelyn, Virginia, Emilie, Burns, Sam, Sarah Hampton, Maureen, Anne Frances, Walter, Caroline. Seated: Evelyn, holding Cobb, Mary Coleman, Rush, Truman, Tyson, Emilie

Evelyn having a fun moment with grandson Cobb

Grandson Truman, a boy and his dog

more dignity to all involved. We provide a safe and caring environment for people to thrive in this last season of their lives. I consider it a great privilege to be a part of their journey.

Regarding our staff, I will have to say that here at Haven Memory Care on Halcyon, we have what I call “unique and special” staff. While we are not a perfect place, our staff does go beyond “caretaking” to “caregiving.” What does that mean? It is more than just semantics. It centers around the relationship and then moves to the doing necessary tasks. If someone loves sports or perhaps formerly played sports, we will try to find “the game” on television for them or maybe have a “tailgate party.” We have even been known to have an IRON Bowl party!! It means that if someone loves flowers, we will find a way to give that person access to a

cutting garden or flower arranging. We put fresh flowers in their room sometimes. If someone is not in the mood for their shower, we will wait and try again later in the day. Sometimes, the staff will trade halls and ask a different caregiver to give the shower a try. We make an effort to provide our seniors with the dignity they deserve, continuing to have choices in and about their lives as much as is reasonably possible. I tell people to come visit sooner rather than later. This gives more time for the seniors to get settled and become a part of the community. It also provides help for the family who has been carrying so much responsibility. It ends up improving the quality of the time they spend together. That is one reason I am so proud we can provide Respite Care as well.

For a family with a loved one living with them, Respite Care provides an opportunity to attend a family wedding, take a much-needed vacation, or complete a project, knowing their parent is being well cared for. It also creates a nice vacation from each other. I love to let the senior coming for a respite stay know that this is their vacation! They will enjoy good food, and fun activities and make new friends while they are with us. There are many avenues to becoming more informed about the disease

and what to expect as it develops. I encourage people to learn all they can about dementia and its many facets. It has been said that knowledge is power. Often, we see that a family is having difficulty accepting the diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s or Understanding what to expect. Gaining knowledge and insight helps remove fear, and one’s expectations become more

realistic. Ultimately, all involved are more proactive and less frustrated. We can also learn techniques to better equip us to “love our loved ones.”

BOOM!: You recently quoted the bible verse Psalm 37:4: “Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.” Please share the importance of this verse about your mom’s last few months of life and the work you do today.

Evelyn: My dear mother passed away and went to heaven a year ago this

Son, Burns Parker with wife Emilie and children Truman, Sarrah Hampton, Emilie

Son, Walter Parker holding daughter Mary Coleman, wife Caroline and son Tyson

Daughter, Mary Evelyn Jordan, holding son Cobb with husband Jacob

Daughter, Maureen Hallman and husband Sam, children, Anne Frances, Virginia

The newest grandchild, Mills, born in May 2023, that makes 9!

month. She was ready to go but is deeply missed by me, my sisters, and our entire family. I mentioned that verse Psalm 37:4 because it reminds me of her so much. Mama was such a delightful person. She was beautiful inside and out. She was kind, funny and wise. She loved the LORD Jesus with all her heart. She taught my sisters and me to find delight in a relationship with GOD. We learned that if we lived in the way the Bible teaches us, that would honor Him. God would put His desires for us in our hearts. People sometimes think it means He will give us all our heart desires, but it means that, if we seek Him, He will put His desires into our heart, and that will delight us. Nothing delights and satisfies a person more than a life that is surrendered to and lived for the honor and glory of God.

BOOM!: What are some of your favorite travel experiences? Favorite vacation spot? Any travel dreams planned?

Evelyn: In my younger years, before I married, I did some traveling in the United States. When I was a teenager, my church, First Baptist Montgomery, sent us on choir tours each summer. We sang in many churches in different states across America and we would eventually provide a Vacation Bible School in a more rural area that didn’t have one. It was life-changing for many of us because it opened our eyes and taught us to see beyond our own little world. It also kept us busy and

out of trouble!! All the while, we were learning about God from the songs and hymns we sang. Our choir director, Bill Roper, and his wife, Patty, would get volunteers to come along and we would travel for two weeks on a bus. They truly deserve crowns in heaven!! One of the dearest blessings is that now Ms. Patty Roper is one of our residents at Haven Memory Care. I tell her she is God’s light in this place! Her daughters Beth and Kathy bring their families to visit often, and a wonderful time is had by all!!

My precious daddy died in February of my senior year of high school. He had planned for me to go on the Lion’s Club trip to Europe, so I went the summer before I left for college at the University of Alabama. We visited England, France, Italy, Germany, Denmark, and Sweden. We stayed with Lions Club families in each of those countries, and sometimes there was quite a language

barrier. My only regret is that I was not mature enough to fully appreciate all the places I visited and the things I saw.

Another summer during college, I was invited to sing with a Christian musical team and travel to some communist countries. We traveled by train, and onenight, armed soldiers stopped the train in the middle of nowhere and made us all get off the train. While we stood outside, the soldiers searched our cabins and suitcases to see what we might be “smuggling” into their country. You can be sure we were all earnestly and quietly praying for God to protect us. Eventually, they allowed us to go on our way. We later learned that we had not been arrested because our Bibles were in a dialect different than the soldiers spoke, making them unaware of what they were.

In my adult years, I have been privileged

Rush and Evelyn with grandchildren, Truman, Sarah Hampton, Emilie

Tyson, Mary Coleman, and new baby Mills

Our Family Loves the Beach, Granddaughters, Emilie and Sarah Hampton

My husband, Rush Garrett, and me cooking on the grill for residents, Labor Day. We call him "The Grillfather”!

Grandmother-Granddaughter Fashion Show, Emilie Reid and Evelyn, with granddaughters Sarah Hampton & Emilie

to go on mission trips to Mexico and Guatemala. My husband and I hope to visit the Holy Land, Israel, one day, but haven’t made those plans yet.

In reality, these days of grown children and grandchildren, our only real desire to travel is anywhere they are! It sounds silly, but that is the truth of the matter!!

BOOM!: What is it about living in the Montgomery/River Region that you like? What do we need more of?

Evelyn: We have loved being back in Montgomery with family, cousins, lifelong friends, and, of course, being back at First Baptist Church. Montgomery has changed in many ways, but in many instances, it is as if we never left. We have found people to be friendly and helpful. We have enjoyed trying new restaurants and going back to “long standing” ones, the Shakespeare Theater and, of course the Montgomery Curb Market, to mention a few. It has been fun to meet my sister and her husband for dinner or join the ladies for lunch. I frequently ask people to join me for lunch at Haven Memory Care because I am so proud of it! I believe it to be a “jewel” in the city of Montgomery. Not having school-aged children or grandchildren here, I can’t honestly comment on the Montgomery school system. I am aware that a school system’s health and well-being ultimately influences the health and well-being of a city. I pray that Montgomery will choose to be a leader in the state and work together for the betterment of all.

BOOM!: Do you have time to be involved in community, church, etc.?

Evelyn: I have been so completely immersed in the growth and activities at Haven Memory Care over these past several months that I have not been able to participate in much else. As I mentioned, we have re-joined First Baptist Church and plan to become more involved over the next year. I also look forward to getting involved with the Chamber of Commerce and perhaps one of the civic organizations in the near future.

BOOM!: What are you most passionate about?

Evelyn: Faith, Family, and Friends – I am a people person. I like people. The love of and interest in others is a Biblical principle, so I am grateful God designed me to enjoy his other children. Of course, my own family steals my heart and passion in an indescribable way.

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

Evelyn: I like to do heirloom sewing for

the grandchildren, so Easter and Christmas are always a fun family experience. They wear the outfits until they outgrow them and then pass them down to the next one. Of course, the time spent together is what brings the most enjoyment. I have not had time to sew since we came to Montgomery, but I think there are still enough clothes to go around.

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

Evelyn: I guess it means becoming kinder, patient, and accepting of others. For me, that means to become more Christ-like: to think of myself less and of others more.

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

Evelyn: We enjoy sitting on the porch and hearing about each other’s day when we first get home. One of us eventually pops the question…” What do you want to do about dinner?”

BOOM!: How do you and your husband like to spend time with family and friends? Describe your

Evelyn and her "Unique and Special" staff at Haven Memory Care

Shawnta Lockley, Dining Department, Stephanie Powell, Housekeeping Director

Andrea Saunders- Haven Memory Care Community Development Director

Resident, Patty Roper, and her two daughters (Beth Stewart and Kathy Shirley)

Haven Memory Care on Halcyon

experience as a grandmother? What do your grandkids call you?

Evelyn: One of my husband’s and my favorite events every year is our Camp Joy! This is the week each summer that we get to have the grandchildren for a week. We are their Nonnie and Poppy. They must be five years old to attend, and we have told them they can continue to attend until they are married! That should be a good long while! We implemented that rule when the oldest ones no longer needed a nap or diapering and spent too much time waiting for the little ones to wake up! It has been a good rule and allows us to do all manner of wonderful activities… Swimming, horseback riding, painting, fishing, cooking, singing, games, tents, and bike riding, to name a few. We always have a Camp theme, a camp song, and a Bible verse. As you might guess, we call it Camp Joy because each child brings us such great joy, and joy fills us each time we are with them. There are no words to say how much!!

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? What are your thoughts on retirement?

Evelyn: I have mentioned my faith so much during this interview. That answers so many questions for me. We have renewal every morning, every hour, every new minute. My perspective is that if you have a pulse, you have a purpose. Serving others is the thing that does it for me.

I don’t have many thoughts about retirement. If someone wants to discontinue their employment, that can open the door to a new way of serving. If one no longer wishes to go to an office each day, that’s fine. I think it is crucial to always continue to serve in some

capacity. We need to get “outside of our own desires” and do for others. I believe it is God’s way of keeping us centered and healthy. The scripture in Galatians 6:9 says, “Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” That speaks to me.

BOOM!: Evelyn, give us three words that describe you?

Evelyn: Grateful, grateful, grateful!!! I am eternally grateful for the inestimable blessings I have received in my life. Everyone has some heartache and disappointment in this life, including me. But, when I look over the fabric of my life, I see blessings upon blessings, and I am humbly grateful!

We want to thank Evelyn for sharing some of her life's story with us this month. Evelyn is a senior living specialist who has a heart for those families caring for a loved one with memory issues. She understands their needs and as she says, “We are here to help.” We hope you’ll share Evelyn’s story with friends and family, they’ll enjoy the reading experience. If you want to reach out to Evelyn, call Haven Memory Care at 334.396.1111 or email her egarrett@havenonhalcyon.com. Thanks to DiAnna Paulk and her creative photography skills. If you have questions, comments, or suggestions about our cover profiles, including nominating someone, please text them to Jim Watson at 334.324.3472 or email jim@riverregionboom.com

Wearing Our Camp Joy Painted Tee-Shirts, L-R: Tyson, Emilie, Virginia, Evelyn, bottom: Sarah Hampton, Anne Frances

One of many adventures, Horseback Riding at Camp Joy

WAIST SIZE STORY

THE MIRACLE OF CRYOCONTOURING!

We celebrate Halloween this month so let’s do that!

I have been haunted by a pair of sweatpants that cost $104 (plus shipping). Not a misprint. I’ll explain.

My morning show (3 Men & a Dog) receives a package of unusual stories every day. The content covers everything from people doing stupid things to celebrities doing stupid things, plus some lifestyle stuff. In the latter category, a story touted a company offering “dress” sweatpants. They look like “real” slacks but offer the comfort of regular sweatpants. ONLY $104 a pair. So, in a spontaneous moment, I became a person doing stupid things and ordered a pair.

This was 10 years ago.

The pants arrived 2-3 shipping days later. I couldn’t wait to see my new treasure and they did not disappoint. They looked like pants you could wear to any business meeting or fine restaurant, and felt great as I slipped my legs in.

I thought I’d hit the motherlode of fashion miracles until I pulled them up to my waist when everything went south.

Unlike sweatpants, the waist had no

flex and a metal clasp fastener. No give! I sucked it in, pulled the ends together and they finally met. No good. The waistband was like wearing a boa in full constriction. I hung them up determined that one day they’d fit without surgery.

In intervening years when I thought my waist was down, I’d try them on. It got better but never comfortable. They hung and haunted me in the closet, reminding me daily that I’d spent $104 on a good idea gone bad.

FF to this past summer. Regular BOOM readers know I’ve been biking daily for 3 years. You may also recall this summer was obnoxiously hot, but I was undeterred. Day after day at high noon I took my Townie out biking and baking for 4-5 miles. Some days I returned home in liquid form. Surely the $104 pants would now fit.

NO! After all this? Agggggggggggh!

Time to talk to my friend Ryan Turner at Infusion Cryo and Laser about a new technology called “Cryocontouring”.

From the Infusion web site- “Cryocontouring is the newest spot fat reduction machine that allows for the permanent removal

of fat cells in those stubborn areas. The technology uses sub-zero temperatures to induce ‘Apoptosis’otherwise known as program cell death. It is non-invasive and uses a biological process to provide exceptional results.”

That’s the science. I knew it worked because my friend and co-worker Rich Thomas had been going to Infusion every few weeks. Results? Rich announced he’d reached his lowest waistline in 30 years!

When peddling myself into a human puddle didn’t work, I finally made an appointment with Ryan.

I’ve known this young man for years. He holds a Master of Science in Fitness and Sport Management. Like the old E.F. Hutton commercials, when he talks, I listen, and listen I did.

I admire his frankness. “If you want this to work you need to make

"A true story from the Greg files"

The hanging, haunting sweatpants

"Coach" Ryan Turner, Infusion Cryo/Laser

some changes. The bottom line is, you can ride that bike to Birmingham and back every day but if you take in more calories than you burn, nothing will change”.

Before my first Cryocontouring session, he recorded my info and gave me a list of nutritional goals to work on.

The treatment isn’t cheap, but- and this is why it is so popular- it costs a fraction of invasive procedures like liposuction and the infamous lap band procedure.

No scars! Let the Apoptosis begin!

Ryan placed the Cryo paddles around my waist, told me what to expect, and exited. For 35 minutes, the machine did its thing. The extreme temperature changes are noticeable but barely so. I relaxed on the padded table, daydreaming of conquering those $104 dress sweatpants.

As the session ended, the benefits made themselves quite clear. I’ve jokingly referred to stubborn fat as “hard lard” but that’s in fact, what it is. It tends to accumulate, ahem, especially as we age. Cryocontouring can also be used on thighs, arms and the legendary “love handles”. Afterward, the body naturally excretes the fat cells targeted in the process.

I began implementing the nutrition changes encouraged by the young man Rich and I refer to as “Coach” Turner. Cutting carbs and reducing fat intake was not as difficult as I thought. Two

weeks after my session, I was ready to try on the $104 sweatpants. It was too easy!

I envisioned a struggle. Some wrestling? At last, after almost 10 years, a pricey impulse purchase was usable!

No rancid diet of deprivation! No pills, potions, or pain. A daily bike ride pays real dividends after making a few food intake adjustments.

If you’re losing your Battle of the Bulge let me encourage you to arrange a consultation with Coach Ryan. He gets the BOOMer. His advice and encouragement were as valuable as the Cryocontour technology.

And the hanging $104 sweatpants no longer haunt me. Demons exorcised.

And exercised!

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

Greg Budell lives in Montgomery with his wife, Roz, and dog, Brisco. He's been in radio since 1970, and has marked 17 years in the River Region. He hosts the Newstalk 93.1FM Morning Show with Rich Thomas and Jay Scott, 6-9 AM Monday - Friday. He returns weekday afternoons from 3-6 PM for Happy Hour with sidekick, Rosie Brock. Greg can be reached at gregbudell@aol.com

Greg finally enjoying the feel of his $104 Sweatpants

Can You Afford to Retire?

Can you afford to retire? The pandemic has pushed many people to confront this question earlier than they may have planned. The answer may be more complicated than you think and an incorrect answer could be costly. To correctly answer the question, it may help to build a retirement income and expenses pyramid.

Longevity risk is one reason that the answer is complicated. Many people retiring today live twenty-five years or longer after they retire; think of that as being unemployed for 25 years. In addition, that twenty-five-year period is filled with three different phases with different sets of expenses: the Go-Go years, the SlowGo years and the No-Go years. Another complication is that your lifestyle when you retire may be totally different, with a different set of expenses; it’s a whole new budget. Finally, your sources of income are likely to be different and subject to new sets of risks.

On Wednesday, October 25th from noon to 1:30 p.m. Susan Moore of Moore Wealth Management, Inc. will be conducting a complimentary webinar that covers how to build your pyramid, estimating what your income and expenses will be during retirement. 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 also offer free consultations that are without obligation.

A pyramid approach attempts to prioritize the sources of income and expenses. First, you build the foundation of the pyramid with your guaranteed sources of income which include Social Security, some types of annuities and pensions. This involves

Financial Thoughts with Susan Moore

expenses like vacations, hobbies, entertainment and taking care of family. Like the essential expenses, these may vary widely depending up on the three phases. A portfolio producing an income is subject to different risks than one in which you are accumulating assets. Conventional wisdom was that a safe withdrawal rate from a portfolio was 4%; new studies show that in a low interest rate world the “new” safe withdrawal rate is 2.5% to 3%.¹ In addition, a portfolio producing an income is subject to greater risks of sustained losses than a portfolio providing no distributions.

By Susan Clayton Moore, J.D. Principal

a whole set of questions: when to take Social Security to maximize it for your circumstances; when and how to take income from the annuities; and which pension option to take and is your pension safe (is it at risk because of underfunding)?

Once you’ve determined the guaranteed sources of income that make up the foundation, then you have to budget and figure out your essential expenses, which include food, housing, healthcare and taxes. These expenses may vary widely in the three phases of Go-Go, Slow-Go and No-Go. This too involves a whole set of questions: how to maximize your healthcare coverage and minimize your costs; can you afford to age in place or do you need to plan to downsize into independent or assisted living options; and how to minimize taxes on Social Security and avoid higher Medicare premiums.

Then you build the middle level of the pyramid which includes your variable sources of income from savings and investment portfolios and your desired

Finally, you are ready to build the top of the pyramid which include your legacy plans: helping to fund grandchildren’s education, gifts to family while you’re alive and at your death; and philanthropic giving while you’re alive and at your death. These should be funded with your longer-term holdings or illiquid investments.

Retiring is complicated. The old adage applies: if you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Build your pyramid!

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

¹https://www.onefpa.org/journal/Pages/The%204%20 Percent%20Rule%20Is%20Not%20Safe%20in%20a%20LowYield%20World.aspx

of Moore Wealth Management, Inc.

Hydrosols

I have had the opportunity to work with a couple of people, and one cat(!), recently, who have all benefited from the use of hydrosols. Now before I go into their specific circumstances, let me first explain exactly what a hydrosol is, and what other names you might see them referred to as.

When essential oils are extracted from plant matter, the most common method is steam distillation. Simply put, a huge quantity of plant matter is put in a large steel vat and steam is forced through it. There is another vat on top which is initially empty, into which the steam passes. Once it cools, it separates out into water and oil – the oil floating on top. The oil is what we refer to as the essential oil of the plant. The water is not just plain water, it is water that has also passed through all that plant matter and collected some of the chemical components evident in the oil, but in much more diluted quantities. A hydrosol, therefore, can be considered to have the same therapeutic qualities as its essential oil namesake, but it is much gentler and, therefore, easier to use safely.

Just a word of warning, however – a “Floral Water” or “Flower Water” is NOT the same thing as a hydrosol. These can be various concoctions, from water with essential oils and soluble to water that has had plant matter steeped in it for a while. Neither of these is a true hydrosol.

There are certain times and certain people for whom a hydrosol should be the first and possibly the only choice of treatment. For example, when working

with babies, the frail and elderly, someone with a compromised immune system, or with animals. In all these cases, a hydrosol should be the first choice and often, it works so well that it ends up being the only choice. So this week, the three cases for which I recommended hydrosols were:

1) A young lady (in her twenties) undergoing chemotherapy, first for one cancer, now for another. She has been receiving treatment for 18 months now. Her body is under extreme stress, and we would not want to stress it out any further. A calm gentle approach was needed – enter hydrosols.

2) A lady in her 60s with rosacea. A very common thing these days; I have to say that I never knew anyone with rosacea up until 10 years ago. Now it seems like it’s every tenth person. Makes you wonder…. Anyway, again, her skin is very stressed right now and the initial protocol is hydrosols to calm down the redness and inflammation. Essential oils, at this point, could actually cause it to flare up even more, though they will be part of the ongoing solution once we have the redness under control.

3) A cat! With a red inflamed nose. Animals are extremely sensitive to smells, as we all know, so you try and avoid using essential oils directly on them. It was also almost impossible to apply a hydrosol directly to a cat's nose, so I mixed the hydrosol in with some coconut oil so it had a bit more substance for me to be able to dab it on the top of her nose –not on the nostril area. Coconut oil also has antibacterial, antiinflammatory, and antifungal qualities, so it was an excellent choice for this instance.

So, you can see there are a wide variety of reasons that you should take a look at hydrosols! I personally use one every day, twice a day, as part of my daily skincare routine. After washing my face, I spritz rose hydrosol all over my face and neck before applying a face serum or face oil. Then I apply my moisturizer. Yes, maybe it sounds complicated, but so is your skin, and it deserves a little respect. Our skin is our largest organ, and it absorbs anything we put on it. It also helps to keep “bad things” out of our bodies, keeps us waterproof, and helps us to get rid of toxins from within our bodies (via sweat and sebum). It is quite an amazing organ and one that deserves a little extra care.

I don’t know who said it, but I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase, “Love The Skin You’re In!” So true! If you do take care of it, then it, in turn, will be better able to take care of you.

Let me know how your experience goes. I’d love to hear about it.

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.