Contents September 2024
Publisher/Editor
Jim Watson
334.324.3472 cell/text jim@riverregionboom.com
Contributing Writers
Jeff Barganier
Tracy Bhalla
Kimberly Blaker
Greg Budell
Elizabeth Fishel
Susan Moore
Elana Rabinowitz
Nick Thomas
Julia Williamson
Cover Photography
Photography by DiAnna Paulk photographybydiannapaulk.com
Advertising
Jim Watson, 334.324.3472 jim@riverregionboom.com
Jim Watson, Publisher jim@riverregionboom.com
Radioland Legend
This month’s cover profile is Greg Budell, a legendary radio guy who has survived more than anyone to restore live radio here in the River Region for the past 20 years. To achieve that, he has become the hardest working man with a microphone, doing two shows every day on NewsTalk 93.1 FM, early morning with Rich Thomas and Jay Scott, and recently added to the mix, the classic Susan Woody. This all takes place between 6-9 am. Then Greg finds ways to refresh his thinking and engage with his afternoon listeners during his Happy Hour show from 3-6 pm. He is a remarkable radio guy who knows how to connect with his audience.
He also connects with his favorite pastime, and that’s writing. When I invited him to write a monthly column in 2011, he was more than interested because he had been doing something similar for a magazine in Miami, where he had been sharpening his wordsmith skills. Over the years, he has added much value to the pages of BOOM! and for all of our readers, I want to thank him for sharing his observations, humor, and boldness. We hope you’ll share Greg’s story with friends and family and become a listener if you’re not already; he’ll no doubt get you fired up and ready to go for the political battles ahead.
There’s plenty more for your reading pleasure, like the woman from Clanton who challenged herself to learn YouTube and other social marketing tools to become very successful selling her scrapbooking products online. Have you ever been in that situation where your parents are trying to downsize, and you don’t want any of their stuff? Well, we offer some tips on how to navigate the challenges and what to say and be nice. With a focus on grandparents, we have a story by Kimberly Blaker on creating a fun activity where your grandchild is the chef, server, and clean-up person; it’s certainly a creative venture for all.
There's plenty more to read this month, including a new Word Search worth $50 BOOM! Bucks. If you can complete it, text me your name for our monthly drawing. Congratulations to Mahalia Kirk for being our August winner! Thank you for taking a few moments of your valuable time to read the September issue and maybe share it with friends and family; we appreciate our relationship with each of you. Stay cool and watch football this fall! Age Well, my friends.
Jim 334.324.3472 cell/text jim@riverregionboom.com
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MY SOARING 70s
"A true story from the Greg files"
I have a benchmark birthday this month. Hell, after 70, they’re all benchmark birthdays!
And, I’m flattered to be celebrating with my 3rd BOOM! Magazine cover this month! Please allow me to thank 2 people who made this nice little honor possible.
Let me thank BOOM! publisher, Mr. Jim Watson. This man and I connected 14 years and 168,000 (give or take) words ago. He’s taken this magazine to incredible heights. With great content and savvy distribution, BOOM! is the Underdog of magazines- it’s everywhere! So, for the next month almost every place I visit I’ll see myself (for better or worse) looking back from a copy of BOOM!, which Jim has made as ubiquitous as the weather. He has out-Peopled People!
in Miami and relit the fuse for another 20 here. Like Jim, he gives me the most important tool any creator must have to succeedpermission! Permission to try new ideas. Permission to speak my mind, and push boundaries. I’m one of the luckiest radioheads in America. I have rules to respect, of course, but I’m not working for a man who second guesses everything I do. We have a word for that in radioheaven!
Who else has 2 great bosses? I’m deeply grateful to these good men.
going anywhere but onward and upward! Seriously, I love doing things people my age aren’t supposed to do. Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones is 80 and touring his butt off. He’s having fun. He still performs in front of thousands of adoring fans, perhaps not as nimble as he once was but he’s a rock star, not a gymnast. The performance is in his blood and he thrives on it. Good for him! I love radio and writing for similar reasons. It’s great to have an audience and gratifying to hear applause now and then.
Time marches on but I don’t have to let it step on my face. BOOMers- there is some great technology out there to help our bodies adapt as we age. I would happily like to share about them.
In all my years as a BOOM! contributor, you know how many times Mr. Watson has called to say, “You can’t write that!”? Zero. These days it takes guts and gonads to stand behind free speech and it’s great to produce for a man who has your back. Which brings me to Rick Peters, the G & G CEO of Bluewater Broadcasting and my radio (NewsTalk 93.1FM) mentor. Rick and I have known each other 45 years! He launched my 25-year career
When I was growing up (still workin’ on that) I’d see someone who’d reached my current age and wondered what it was like to be SO old.
People in their 70s or older must think about dying all the time, right? How can they not think about it constantly?
Now that my toes are curled over (and gripping) The Great Precipice, I’m happy to report that I’m too busy to think about
One is for BOOMer guys- Montgomery Men’s Health. It’s a medical facility that has helped thousands of guys (nonBOOMers, too) with an array of issues from E.D. to obesity. I love the place. Great staff. For $99 bucks men can get a testosterone workup and medical solutions if the numbers are low. “T” affects every aspect of a man’s life, so the test is a great start towards overall wellness. Energy. Libido. Education. Life!
My weekdays start at 3AM and end at 6PM. There’s an hour nap in there, but vigorous daily exercise, too. A couple of months back, I wrote a piece about my goal of getting below 200 pounds. Thanks to the regimen I do with MMH (334-440-3663), I blew past that number and am aiming for 190, and yes, you can still build muscle after 70 as well.
Jacquelyn Tomlinson - one of Greg's favorite guest sidekicks and best friends!
I’ve never enjoyed such sustained good health in my life and have no trouble with that seemingly crazy schedule.
My other “secret” is a place called AMS Studios in Prattville. Owned by my friend Pamela, AMS offers stateof-the-art anti-aging technologies that stimulate selfrejuvenation. I’m not one to preach against cosmetic surgery, but they’re expensive and often produce an artificial result. AMS offers a host of services, including massage (excellent) for all adults, but for the BOOMer seeking help with skin and body, AMS is a great option. Pamela is a Veteran and has become a regular sidekick on my afternoon talk show, “Happy Hour”.
animated, engaging fashion. Her name is Ellen Murray. Miss Murray has become the “Movie Maven” three times a week in the afternoon and has inspired a welcome escape for listeners seeking refuge from the onslaught of negative national news. Eddie Bader is a phenomenal realtor, in no small part because of his lovable personality. I’ve harnessed him into side kicking on Friday afternoons. An AUM theater professor known as Master Thespian (he’s a talented actor, too) joins me on Tuesdays. No one in that group thought they’d be doing talk radio, but they are and make a huge contribution to my show.
Pamela has been part of a youthful infusion into my work. I love discovering new people with something to say. I love my BOOMer peers (Rich Thomas, Susan Woody, Rosie Brock), but in addition to Pam, I’ve been bringing in new, younger voices with firecracker personalities. My lawyer, Jacqueline Tomlinson, has become a fan (and personal) favorite. At one of our weekly listener gatherings at Baumhower’s Victory Grill, I heard a young woman discussing her favorite movies in an
I’m always looking for fresh talent!
These acknowledgements must absolutely include my wife of 10 years, Roz.
I’ll celebrate this birthday with these amazing people in my life.
Thanks to everyone who’s taught me not to worry about life expectancy.
I'll be busy raising my expectancy from life!
(Readers, thank YOU for your support, too. I'm very grateful)
Share your thoughts on my experiences or other comments via email at gregbudell@aol.com. It's always fun to hear from BOOM! readers.
Greg Budell lives in Montgomery with his wife, Roz, and dog, Brisco. He's been in radio since 1970, and has marked 19 years in the River Region. He hosts the Newstalk 93.1FM Morning Show with Rich Thomas, Susan Woody, and Jay Scott, 6-9 AM Monday - Friday. He returns weekday afternoons from 3-6 PM for Happy Hour with, Rosie Brock and a variety of sidekicks. Greg can be reached at gregbudell@aol.com
Top: Ellen Murray and Pamela Jean - the dynamic duo of co-hosts. Bottom: "Movie Maven Miss (Ellen) Murray"
Political Party Animals
Aside from the curious Electoral College and tortuous two-year buildup of political grandstanding, posturing, and advertising prior to presidential elections, there is another especially odd tradition in the American political system – the bizarre assignment of animal mascots to the two major political parties. Even more curious, neither is a turkey.
The Republican Party has long been associated with the imposing elephant while the Democrats are linked to the humble donkey, associations traced back to nineteenth-century political cartoons.
In 1837, a then little-noticed drawing depicted Democratic President Andrew Jackson, well-known for his stubborn nature, leading a donkey. The donkeyDemocrat association might have abruptly ended there were it not for an observant political cartoonist, Thomas Nast, who revived the connection some three decades later. The public quickly accepted the quirky connection.
Not wishing the GOP to feel ignored, Nash again sharpened his quill and turned his artistic wit toward the Republicans after an 1874 New York newspaper story suggested two-term Republican President Ulysses S. Grant might run for a third term ‒ which no American president had previously attempted to do.
Although the story of Grant running again was apparently untrue, Democrats seized upon the idea hoping to scare Republican voters away from the party by portraying Grant as an aspiring “emperor” of the United
States. If nothing else, it’s nice to be reminded that the distortion of facts has remained a remarkably consistent universal political strategy by all parties throughout the years.
Nast’s sketch was published in The New Yorker and depicted Republicans as elephants that were unmovable when calm, but unstoppable and destructive when agitated. The public quickly embraced that connection, too, and the Republican Party would be forever linked to the popular pachyderm.
Historically, of course, Democrats have viewed the elephant symbol as “a bungling, pompous, and conservative” beast. But it was former presidential candidate of the 1950s, Adlai Stevenson, who offered a memorable description of the Republican symbol ‒ at least from the Democratic viewpoint – when he noted: “The elephant has a thick skin, a head full of ivory, and as everyone who has seen a circus parade knows, proceeds best by grasping the tail of its predecessor.”
Undeterred by the Stevenson description, Republicans adopted the elephant as their official symbol, preferring to believe that the “dignified,
strong, and intelligent” animal represented them well.
Not surprisingly, Republicans haven’t offered a particularly flattering view of the gentle donkey either, considering it to be “stubborn, silly, and ridiculous.”
Democrats, however, claim the donkey’s “humble, smart, courageous, and lovable” nature is a good analogy to their party’s philosophy. Perhaps. Although humble and lovable are terms rarely applied to any politician.
Nevertheless, the Party has never officially adopted the donkey as their symbol, which is probably wise. No matter how fondly one describes the beloved domesticated pack animal, it’s dubious at best to formally represent yourself as an ass.
Despite their obvious differences, the elephant and donkey do share a common characteristic. Both have been employed throughout human history in various cultures as beasts of burden to carry our heavy loads.
So instead of fruitlessly butting heads as November approaches, wouldn’t it be refreshing if the two parties could put their skulls wisely together and combine the symbolic strength of the elephant with the donkey’s stubbornness to succeed? United, they could carry the burdens of the nation while tackling our many problems for the benefit of all.
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
Quin Gresham Named Artistic Director at Alabama Shakespeare Festival
Alabama Shakespeare Festival (ASF) has appointed its fifth artistic director in the theater’s 52-year history. Quin Gresham will join ASF Nov. 4, 2024, after 19 years at Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre in Missouri.
"Alabama Shakespeare Festival has once again selected an outstanding Artistic Director who will continue ASF's institutional role modeling for production excellence, community accessibility, and arts education,” said ASF Board Chairman Vanzetta Penn McPherson. “Quin brings to ASF a wealth of artistic creativity and managerial integrity. Residents of our city and state will soon be as impressed as we are with the value that Quin places on community interaction and our obligation to be good stewards of the resources so generously provided by public and private donors. Quin's assumption of this new role is Alabama's and Montgomery's good fortune."
"After visiting Montgomery and experiencing the awesome beauty of the Alabama Shakespeare Festival and the people who make it great, I was instantly struck by a deep sense of belonging. The sincere kindness of board members and ASF staff and their easy love for their creative home made abundantly clear to me that ASF is rightfully regarded as a very special place,” incoming Artistic Director Gresham said. “I am immensely honored to partner with Executive Director,
Todd Schmidt, to advance ASF’s mission through eclectic, humanizing and bridgebuilding storytelling. My partner Emilee and I are excited to immerse ourselves in Montgomery’s vibrant community and to better acquaint ourselves with the people, culture, and a history that is so meaningful, not just to Alabama, but to the whole of our country. As a Southerner, I’m thrilled to delve into a regional theatre that truly amplifies the pride, playfulness, and pain of authentic Southern voices, and to collaborate with the amazing ASF team to create unforgettable theatrical magic that reflects Alabama’s diverse perspectives and interests.”
"I am delighted to extend a warm welcome to Quin Gresham as the new Artistic Director of Alabama Shakespeare Festival,” said Todd Schmidt, Executive Director. “Quin’s remarkable vision and dedication to the craft of theater align perfectly with our mission to bring captivating and transformative theatrical experiences to our audiences. As we embark on this exciting new chapter, I am confident that Quin’s innovative leadership will elevate ASF to new
heights. Together, we look forward to crafting extraordinary theatrical journeys and celebrating the rich tradition of storytelling that defines our community."
At Arrow Rock, Gresham directed numerous musicals, comedies, and dramas of varying scope and size. Also an actor, he appeared in 50 productions at the Lyceum.
Gresham is the 2020 recipient of the Missouri Arts Award for Leadership in the Arts. His work has also been seen at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, Greenbrier Valley Theatre, Totem Pole Playhouse, The Riverside Theatre, The National Arts Club, Stephens College, Providence College, Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre and The Texas Shakespeare Festival.
Gresham will introduce his first slate of shows in 2025-26. The 2024-25 season begins on Sept. 26 with Ken Ludwig’s Dear Jack, Dear Louise, followed by A Christmas Carol; The Watsons Go To Birmingham; Ludwig’s Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood; Hamlet; Kudzu Calling; and The Wizard of Oz.
334.272.5353
Chicken Madeira
(Cheesecake Factory Copycat)
This Chicken Madeira recipe is a better-than take on Cheesecake Factory’s most popular chicken dish. It’s easy make at home and explosion of flavor. It’s healthy, delish, and will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
4 skinless chicken breast fillets
kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
5 TB olive oil, divided
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Sauce:
2 TB olive oil
8 oz fresh white mushrooms, sliced
3 cups madeira wine, almost a full bottle
4 cloves minced garlic
2 cups beef broth
2 TB cornstarch dissolved in 2 TB of beef broth
1 TB salted butter
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
< Pound: flatten chicken breasts to an even 1/4-inch thickness throughout. Lightly sprinkle both sides of each chicken breast with kosher salt and black pepper.
< Cook: in a large skillet, heat 3 TB olive oil over medium heat until hot. Place chicken breasts in skillet, without overcrowding (if needed, cook them in two separate batches.) Cook 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned on both sides and no longer pink in center. Transfer cooked chicken to a baking pan and cover to keep warm.
< Sauce: in the same skillet (don’t wash out the skillet) add 2 TB olive oil over medium heat until oil is hot. Add mushrooms and stir 1-2 min. Add the remaining sauce ingredients. Stir and bring sauce to a boil. Immediately reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer 20 minutes or until sauce is reduced by one-fourth of its original volume. Finished sauce will be dark brown and thickened. Transfer sauce to a container and keep warm.
< Broil: sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly on top of chicken breasts on baking pan. Broil 3-4 minutes or just until cheese is golden and melted; watch carefully to prevent burning.
< Serve: enjoy chicken immediately, generously drizzled with Madeira sauce. Extra sauce is delicious over mashed potatoes, angel hair pasta, or fluffy rice.
Source: https://www.chewoutloud.com/chicken-madeiracheesecake-factory-copycat-2
Frazer Offers
This GriefShare group is offered for anyone who has lost a loved one. We use the new GriefShare 4.0 video-based curriculum followed by discussion concerning the stages of grief, the storms that come with it, and ways of dealing with loss
Contact BJ Nave below with any questions.
EVENT LOCATION
Frazer Church-East Sanctuary 6000 Atlanta Hwy Montgomery, AL
10:00 AM–12:00 PM Weekly on Wednesday until November 20, 2024 CONTACT
BJ Nave rnave@frazer.church
7 Ways to Make Others Feel Good
Even the smallest of gestures can keep a friendship healthy. It feels good to be noticed and appreciated, right? You can offer that gift to someone else anytime. Imagine the compounding gifts of goodwill and friendship that would accrue for you and others if you made it your mission to make others feel good regularly.
Making others feel good is not some super special gift for the charismatic or outgoing among us. It’s not even a skill that you need to practice to do well. Nearly anyone can make others feel good with the knowledge and self-confidence they already possess.
The reasons for making others feel good are as numerous as the ways to do it. The most important reason is that making others feel good, about themselves or just about their day, is a way to add love and kindness to the world. All humans need love in their lives and the best way to receive it is to send it out.
Spread the Goodness
The only hard part—if you want to call it that—is deciding to prioritize this action
in your life and following through day after day. Sincerity and intentionality are really the only traits you need. Isn’t it wonderful that something so special is also so accessible? We really have no excuse not to do our best to make others feel good.
I’m sure you can think of your own ways to make the people in your life feel good. If you'd like some additional inspiration here are a few things others have done that made me feel especially good:
1. Ask Follow-up Questions
Almost anyone can fake that they
are listening or paying attention, but asking thoughtful follow-up questions is indisputable proof that you care about what the other person says. When I notice that someone seems curious about what I’m saying and encourages me to share more with good questions, I experience a deep connection that feels great.
2. Compliment Publicly
Any sincere, specific compliment feels great, but it feels even better when it’s done publicly. This doesn’t have to be in front of a large group, which might make you self-conscious. An example from my own life is when one of my friends points out something they appreciate about me in front of another friend. What a simple, and delightful gift to give to others.
3. Do Something Special Between Meet-ups
Some friends are great in the moment. When they are with you, they are fully present and promise a great time and a meaningful connection—then they leave and you may not hear from them until
you are together again. There’s nothing wrong with that, but it’s something truly special if, in their absence, they do something nice for you—like forwarding an article they think you'd like— something that shows they were thinking about you.
4. Dream Up Fun Activities to Enjoy Together
When you go out of your way to devise a fun outing or hangout with a friend, you’re showing that you want to be with them and that you care about them having a good time. In the same way that planning a thoughtful, romantic date can win the heart of a potential partner, you can do the same with friends and show them that same level of love.
5. Respect Opinions
I love friends who reach out to me for my opinion and seem to take my words seriously. It’s something I love to do for others, as well. By asking our friends for advice, feedback, or their thoughts of any kind we validate that we trust their
insights and respect their judgments.
6. Smile and Look Happy to See Others
Humans are really good at reading each other’s expressions and body language. It’s a lot harder to fool someone with your look than it is with your words. For that reason, I always appreciate the friends in my life who look excited to see me, no matter when we last saw each other last. It makes me feel great as if my very presence lightens their day.
7. Give Small Gifts
Like anyone, I love to receive gifts for my birthday and Christmas—the common gift-giving times of year. When someone gives me an unexpected gift, no matter how small, it’s something I don’t soon forget. A friend recently asked me to do a small favor and brought over some good, local ice cream as a thank-you. It made me feel that he cared about our friendship and was glad I was able to help him.
A Day of Prayer for Grandchildren
History
In 1978, President Jimmy Carter signed a Senate proclamation, declaring the second Sunday of September as national Grandparent’s Day. They cited the purpose of this day: “…to honor grandparents, to give grandparents and opportunity to show love for their children’s children, and to help children become aware of the strength, information, and guidance older people can offer.”
Sunday September 8
In the Spirit of this proclamation, Christian Grandparenting Network (CGN) has used this day as a call for grandparents to pray. We recognize the desperate moral and spiritual climate our grandchildren must navigate in a world hostile to truth. Satan has launched an aggressive attack on all fronts using media, technology, education, social influences, and political pressures to desensitize and cloud the boundaries of truth and righteousness that hold nations and families together. Perhaps at no other time in human history is a call to prayer more urgently required than it is today. Therefore, under the leadership of Lillian Penner, Christian Grandparenting Network declared the second Sunday of each September as a global Grandparent’s Day of Prayer.
Global Grandparents’ Day of Prayer
As a grandparent, God has entrusted you with a sacred responsibility to impress upon another generation the message of God’s faithfulness and grace, and to stand in the gap on their behalf through prayer and the power of Christ living through you. Assuming this responsibility means taking seriously the effectiveness of prayer to keep their hearts and minds from falling captive to the enemy’s deception. Spiritual battles require spiritual weapons. The strongest weapon in our arsenal is prayer. We need to get on our knees, humble ourselves, seek God’s face, repent of our sin, and intercede on behalf of our children, and grandchildren. Then, having done all, we must stand firm in our faith that God has heard and will answer our prayers according to His will. Scripture tells us…“Do not be afraid, and do not be dismayed . . . for the battle is not yours but God’s” (2 Chronicle 20:15). “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them” (Matthew 18:20).
By Elana Rabinowitz
Work/Life Limbo for Older Adults
Ready to leave your career behind but not ready to stop working? You are in a newly coined netherworld called pretirement.
"We call it pretirement," a woman said while gushing about her new life in the affluent resort town of Saratoga Springs, New York. The smile on her face was impossible to hide.
"Pretirement?" I asked, as if she made a verbal typo.
She explained that it's a phrase she and her spouse created to describe their new softer life as transplants to bucolic Upstate New York from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan.
"Sometimes we check our calendars and if we can we kayak during lunch," she continued. How dreamy this seemed compared to my five-day in-person work week shoveling down my Tupperware lunch between classes.
"We worked in the city for years and now are fully remote," she confessed. Part gloating, part apologetic. She acquiesced.
I also have a house upstate and am beginning the countdown to my actual retirement. In a way, I, too, was slowly preparing for a form of pretirement without even knowing it, transitioning to a new way of life, surrounded by more trees than buildings.
I have only a few years of teaching left, and then bliss. No more coverages, no more early wakeups. Just hiking and the Hudson. How idyllic, I thought. But could I really just sit back and chill after all these years of hustling?
This is the dream I have set in motion, and it is only now that it's close to becoming a reality that I am starting to question if I am actually ready for this radical change in lifestyle. Ready to leave teaching? Yes! Ready to really retire? These days I'm not so sure.
With so many new types of work
possibilities, I want to see what is out there first. Maybe I will get a new job, reinvent myself; maybe I will take up kayaking. For the first time in over 23 years I get to rethink what I actually want to do with my one precious life. While one part of me is ecstatic, another part is filled with fear. When I think of looking for a job, I immediately return to that overconfident college graduate who spent endless hours circling want-ads in The New York Times, only to realize that the communication degree that seemed so promising in college translated into absolutely no jobs in real life.
Wondering About the New Work Environment
What if I can't make it in the new work force? What does the new work environment even look like?
I've never been one to limit myself by age. I didn't learn how to ride a bike until I was 24, didn't get published until I was in my 40s, and certainly am not going to stop pursuing my dreams in my 50s. I just have to figure out how that translates in a new post-COVID society.
One of my greatest pet peeves is when people use the phrase, "I will do that when I retire," whether they mean travel, relax or learn to play an instrument. As if all of life's pleasures should be spent in bulk, instead of sprinkling them throughout our lives in doses. I have ensured that I have thus far lived a life, filled with all these things. I want to savor them now, not only in my golden years.
The truth is, I never planned on becoming
a teacher, I had more creative pursuits in mind, but when 9/11 hit, I found myself desperately in need of work. Since I already had a background in teaching from working abroad, I went for an interview at a middle school and to my surprise got the job immediately.
I didn't plan on staying. I never thought I'd like it, but I did. Yet, to retire in my 50s, while financially feasible, leaves me wanting more. While I am ready to give up the stress of commuting in the city, I am not ready to stay at home full time. What's next?
I am a bit nervous about the whole transition. Sometimes scary is good. While it fills me with angst thinking about what lies ahead, it also fills me with hope. I never got the chance to pursue the career I truly wanted and now with so many varied options out there, perhaps I finally can.
Ease Into Preretirement
Maybe I will be an entrepreneur, maybe I will finally write that novel or screenplay, or maybe I will take some time off and live abroad again. I am still deciding. In the meantime, I will ease into my pretirement. Take some more classes (although teachers make the worst students), explore options, and spend time outside with nature; she is my greatest resource these days.
When you're a kid and your teacher is absent you are thrilled at first, then, when they are out for a few days, less so, and sometimes when they are on leave you actually miss them and the routine. After more than 20 years of teaching, I wonder who I will be when I am not getting up early to motivate children. Not carrying an oversized tote bag filled with school paraphernalia. I am a tad nervous, but excited to find out.
Pretirement, here I come!
Elana Rabinowitz is an ESL teacher and freelance writer. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, Washington Post, and Good Housekeeping. She divides her time between Brooklyn and Germantown, New York, and is an Airbnb Superhost.
Source: www.nextavenue.org
Clanton's Maymay Helms found success with crafting on YouTube, other social media
This Chilton County woman discovered social media later in life, providing the avenue by which her ideas could reach the international marketplace
When Clanton’s Maymay Helms discovered YouTube in 2008, the fledgling video platform was just a few years old and still finding an audience.
“No one was making a career on YouTube at the time,” says Maymay, who would watch people do instructional videos. “They were just having fun. I said to my husband, ‘I think I can teach on here.’”
She was right.
Maymay Made It’s store specializes in memory-making projects for scrapbookers and other crafters. Rubber stamps are a big part of Maymay Made It, which offers a subscription service in the form of a stamp-of-the-month club. Photo courtesy of Joyanna Love and the Clanton Advertiser.
In 2011, Maymay took to the internet, making one video a week to teach viewers aspects of crafting.
“Every time I’d post a video, someone would say, ‘Where did you get that product? Where can we get that?’” she says. “It just kind of turned into the business.”
“The business” is Maymay Made It, a multi-faceted enterprise — social media, website, brick-and-mortar store on U.S. 31 in Clanton — that has made Maymay a star in the crafting world.
“We do paper crafting, anything with scrapbook papers,” she says. “We do memory-making, including folios and greeting cards and rubber stamping. We design stamps that we release every month.”
Maymay — a nickname her now 22-yearold nephew gave her when he was 2 years old — had worked as a hairdresser, in car sales and apartment leasing before Maymay Made It, but she never was far from what she really loved to do. “I’ve been a crafter as long as I can remember,” she says. “And I always
wanted to be a teacher. I love that I can teach what I love.”
Here’s how it works. Maymay and her team produce several videos and live shows a week in which she takes a scrapbook product — paper, folios, greeting cards, rubber stamps, for instance — and shows her viewers how they can use it. Those products are for sale online, through social media and at the Clanton store.
Maymay has more than 3,000 videos on her YouTube channel, which has more than 380,000 subscribers.
“Some of our most popular videos are what we call our ‘as many as’ videos,” she says. “We take a paper pack made by a scrapbook company … and we make as many cards, as many tags, as many bookmarks, as many memory albums as we can make from one paper pack. We show people how to get the most out of their scrapbook paper.”
Though her reach is international, all of this emanates from Clanton, in Maymay’s studio, which is between the 1,000-square-foot retail store and a 7,000-square-foot warehouse. In 2015, she and her husband, Vince, began working full-time on growing the
at www.RiverRegionBoom.com
Maymay Helms had a love for crafting long before taking to YouTube to teach it to others. Photos courtesy of Joyanna Love and the Clanton Advertiser.
company, and they now have nine fulltime employees.
It’s quite the success story, considering that Maymay was 40 when she discovered YouTube and, at the time, didn’t even have a Facebook account.
“Social media has been such a blessing for me to have started so early on it,” says Maymay. “Most people weren’t even thinking about YouTube when I got lucky enough to find it.”
In addition to YouTube, Maymay Made It has a presence on Facebook and Instagram, but not TikTok … yet. “I’m not on TikTok, but only because I haven’t fallen into the flow of that,” Maymay says.
Always the teacher, Maymay also has worked with the City of Clanton and the Chilton County Chamber of Commerce to create the Merchants Association of Chilton County, a group of Clanton companies that share ideas and successes and work to boost business in Clanton overall.
“I feel called to help other businesses,” Maymay says. “I feel like that’s part of the ministry God has given me. I love to help people with their social media and their business models, especially if they’re brand new to business.
“I love the network we can create where we’re constantly talking about each other,” she adds. “One of the things I’m always saying to our business owners is whenever someone checks out at the counter, the last thing you should say to them is, ‘Where are you going next?’”
People come from all over the country and beyond to visit Maymay’s store, but she also brings them in with two in-person events each year. “About 100 people come to the Clanton Conference and Performing Arts Center twice a year,” she says. “We try very hard to bring people to Chilton County because we love it here, and we’re so proud of our area.”
Maymay says she and her team are “constantly doing new things” to build their audience.
“Especially with the social media side, algorithms and the way things are fed to people change so much,” she says. “If you get stagnant, you get left behind.”
If Maymay has anything to say about it, neither she nor other Clanton businesses will get left behind. The city has a number of YouTubers, including Sew Charming, a quilt shop; Clack Shack, a handmade crafts and woodworking shop; Cog Hill Farm; and Simply Lake & Lace, among others.
For her part, Maymay wants to keep encouraging others and building on her own success.
“God has been good to me,” she says. “He’s good to all of us. I don’t take any credit for this business. God handed it to me. I say this is the dream I didn’t know I had because God had it for me.”
Alec Harvey is executive editor of Business Alabama. He is based in the Birmingham office.
source: www.businessalabama.com
Get ready for the tastiest event of the year as the 12th Annual Pike Road Crawfish Boil makes its highly anticipated return on Saturday, May 18, 2024!
Hosted at Century Church from 10 AM to 6 PM, Century Church is located at 1001 Marler Road Pike Road, AL 36064. This favorite community event promises a day filled with great food, live music, and lots of fun, all in support of a great cause.
The Pike Road Crawfish Boil brings the community together for what we all believe in – PIKE ROAD SCHOOLS! Proceeds from the event directly benefit the Pike Road Patriot Fund, which benefits arts and athletics for Pike Road Schools. We are excited to share that over the past decade, the Pike Road Patriot Fund has donated $190,343 to arts and athletics for
By Julia Williamson
Take Mom's Old Knickknacks!
Decluttering
As a professional declutterer, I've seen first-hand the tensions between the generations when it's time for Mom or Dad (or both) to move out of the family home. The kids want to help, but it's a short road from obliging to impatient when watching Dad dither over whether or not to keep Grandpa's broken fountain pen.
with your parents? Try these 7 tips to make the process easier.
In turn, parents feel overwhelmed and dismissed by the kids' cheerful observation that all their stuff is useless junk. So how do you help your aging parents lighten their load when there's a deadline looming?
Dealing with your parents can feel like trying to manage teenagers. They, in turn, may feel like you're infantilizing them. It's similar to the relationship you have with your young adult children; you want to trust that they're adults and can make their own decisions, but you may see disaster looming around every corner. It's hard to resist putting in your two cents.
Deep breathing is a must, but here are seven more practical tips that can help make this potentially stressful situation a little easier.
1. Take anything your parents offer you
Piles of old magazines, kitchen gadgets, extra scarves —say yes to everything. If you don't want it, take it straight to the thrift store. But recognize this is the easiest way to help your parents get rid of things they're done with.
There are times when we don't really want a thing but don't know what to do with it. While it might seem simple to just toss the old issue of House Beautiful into the recycling, it might feel wasteful to your mom. Often the easiest way to get rid of something is to hand it off to someone else. So rather than rolling your eyes and asking your parents why on earth they think you'd need another whisk broom, say thanks and take it with you. You're both starting the process in the easiest way possible.
2. Offer to take anything that’s related to you
I've seen file drawers filled with adult children's childhood medical records, old report cards and elementary school art. These are things your parents thought you might want someday, so it's time to decide whether they're trash or treasure. Relieve your parents of the responsibility for maintaining the family's archive by removing your part of it. Likewise, let them know if there are things of theirs that are special to you. It might make your dad's day to know that sitting in his old desk chair invokes some of your best childhood memories.
3. Help them with any organizing projects they express interest in Has Mom been talking about finally doing something with the hundreds (thousands?) of family photos? Make it a group project. This is a terrific opportunity to label photos so you know which mustachioed gent is your greatgrandfather. Even better, it's a chance to help your mom pare down the collection by discarding blurry or unflattering shots, pictures of people no one remembers, and anything else that's not meaningful. If you've got kids of your own, let them help too. You may learn about people and places you've never heard of before. Someday you'll inherit this collection
Someday you'll inherit your parent's collections and you'll have the option to discard the whole lot. Until then, help your mother enjoy her things by helping her organize them. If you've got kids of your own, they can help too. | Credit: Thong Vo
and you'll have the option to discard the whole lot. Until then, help your mother enjoy her photos by helping her organize them.
4. Ask questions about the family heirlooms
Our possessions tell stories. The ones that have been handed down through the generations may be rich with history, and it might suffice for you to hear the stories without having to take on the thing itself. So ask your dad about those fishing trips he took with his father. Once he's regaled you with his anecdotes, he might be willing to let go of the rods and reels.
Telling our stories is important, as is having an engaged and interested listener. This can be a lovely bonding experience. We think we know our parents well, but often we don't know much about their lives prior to our arrival. Having these conversations deepens our relationships, and the side benefit is that once the stories are shared the items themselves may have less significance.
If your parents don't feel comfortable sending their precious wedding china to the thrift store, see if you can find a more meaningful donation site. You could give them to an organization that gives household items to people who can't afford them, or are rebuilding after a fire or bout of impermanent housing. Knowing that someone is excited to use their things can help your parents let go of a sense of loss — and the potential resentment that their own children have no use for something they loved.
5. Don’t fall into the value trap
Yes, it seems like that sterling silver tea set should be worth real money. Aren't the majority of your parents' belongings antiques, after all? You've probably learned by now that no one is interested in period pieces unless they're vintage mid-20th century, but that information
can be hard for your parents to swallow. Rather than trying to sell things one by one on auction sites, consider using an estate liquidator. Once your parents have decided what they want to take to their next home, let a professional determine what's valuable and what's not. This relieves you all of the burden of selling and will short-circuit any arguments about intrinsic value.
The greatest thing about using a liquidator is that they'll take care of the trash and recycling and even donate items that are in good shape that don't sell. Out of sight, out of mind is the idea here. Once your parents have moved into their new home they won't be so concerned with the things they've left behind. Reassure them that their possessions are going to people who will love and use them.
6. Try not to judge your parents’ lastcentury values through a modern lens Ah, minimalism. What we might view as a life-simplifying aesthetic choice may look to our parents like we're mimicking poverty. And our parents' tendency towards saving every rubber band and takeout container can seem like pointless hoarding. Things have changed a lot in the last half-century. Our insistence that their way of doing things is old-fashioned and therefore inferior is not going to ease this process along.
Sometimes parents feel strongly about passing along family heirlooms to kids who have no use for them. The rejection of our possessions can feel like a rejection of our values, so tread carefully. When discussing what will and will not fit into their new space, try to refrain from making judgements about the things they want to hold on to.
Remember when you were a teenager and thought your parents' habits and ideas were stupid, and let them know at every opportunity? Don't do that now. Pointing out that the things they hold
dear are extraneous or nonsensical is not only discourteous, it's cruel. And it may lead to arguments and intractability. Think about how you want this to go when you're in their position, and act accordingly.
7. Recognize that everyone involved is dealing with loss
None of us are at our best when we're grieving. Your parents are having big feelings about what is likely their last move. If the move has been prompted by the death of a partner, it's probably hard for them to make decisions and difficult for them to let go of objects that have sentimental value. Even if those objects look like junk to you.
At the same time, you're probably wrestling with some big emotions of your own. Watching our parents age is unsettling. This change of residence reminds us that our parents won't be around forever, which in turn may set us to dwelling on our own mortality. Dealing with all these intense emotions can make us short-tempered, and it can make us indecisive.
Ideally, the decluttering that's necessary to prepare for a big move starts well before the move is imminent, but we don't always have that luxury. Give your parents some grace, then extend it to yourself. This isn't easy. It will probably take more time than you anticipated, and you may stumble into some emotional landmines.
Take breaks, get ice cream, go for a walk; do what you need to do to keep yourself healthy and to practice patience. We don't get to keep our parents forever. Let's try to make the last years count.
Julia Williamson is a writer based in Portland, OR, with experience writing about parenting, aging, decluttering and giving yourself a break. She publishes the newsletter Families and Other Freaks every Sunday.
Source: www.nextavenue.org
By Elizabeth Fishel
95-Year-Old Yayoi Kusama: The Best-Selling Woman Artist in the World
Get inside Yayoi Kusama's world of polka dots, pumpkins and infinity rooms
If William Blake believed you could find a universe in a grain of sand, Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama believes you can find it in a polka dot. This remarkable 95-year-old multimedia creator is the top-selling woman artist in the world. In 2024 alone her polka-dotted work can be seen from San Francisco to Rochester to Miami, from London to Barcelona, and on permanent display in the Grand Central Terminal in New York City.
The polka dot is Kusama's signature, from a single spot that represents her own life to multiple dots strewn over brightly colored surfaces that create what she calls "infinity nets." "Dots are symbols of the world, the cosmos," she has said. "The Earth is a dot, the moon, sun, the stars are all made up of dots. You and me, we are dots."
As Kusama writes in her 2002 autobiography, "Infinity Net," her favorite image was inspired by the "hundreds of millions of white pebbles" in the riverbed behind her house where she played as a "disconsolate" child. Now her dots parade triumphantly over canvases, art installations, sculptures, even her own clothing that looks like an art piece itself, as she wears, for example, lipstick red dresses and eggyolk yellow socks, all decorated with jaunty black dots. Her neon red bob and razor-straight bangs complete her look and make her instantly recognizable in photographs.
The Princess of Polka Dots I had the joy of seeing several of Kusama's dazzling works earlier this year at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Christopher Bedford, the museum's director, commented in an interview that the attendance for the exhibit exceeded the museum's expectations at 170,000 visitors. "Many expressed how much they enjoyed the intricacy, immersive quality, and joyful nature of the work," he said.
Known as the "Princess of Polka Dots," Kusama has had an illustrious career spanning seven decades. Her childhood in Tokyo was difficult, under the dark shadow of World War II and an abusive mother. From the age of ten, she started experiencing hallucinations that she described as "flashes of light, auras, or dense fields of dots." These became the source both of her explosive creativity and her later mental illness.
In 1957 at age 28, she moved to the U.S. to be free to make art the way she chose. Before she left her country, she burned one thousand of her artworks, a radical act to prepare for an entirely fresh start. She felt the art world in Japan was too conservative to contain her boundary-pushing spirit.
Making her way to the States, she planted the seeds of support and good luck for herself. She wrote blindly to Georgia O'Keeffe whose work she admired after she found it in a book from a secondhand bookstore. O'Keeffe liked Kusama's work in return and mentored her,
Yayoi Kusama; courtesy the artist, David Zwirner, Ota Fine Arts, and Victoria Miro; © YAYOI KUSAMA; photo: Yusuke Miyaza
Yayoi Kusama, LOVE IS CALLING, 2013, installed in the exhibition Yayoi Kusama: Infinite Love, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, San Francisco, 2023; © YAYOI KUSAMA; photo: Matthew Millman | Credit: courtesy SFMOMA
Yayoi Kusama, Dreaming of Earth’s Sphericity, I Would Offer My Love, 2023, installed in the exhibition Yayoi Kusama: Infinite Love, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, San Francisco, 2023 © YAYOI KUSAMA; photo: Matthew Millman | Credit: courtesy SFMOMA
introducing her to her art dealer. Later, Kusama forged an important connection with the Minimalist artist Donald Judd when they had studios in the same building. And she also began an unconventional relationship with the reclusive artist Joseph Cornell, 26 years her senior and famous for his assemblages and collages, that lasted from the mid-1960s until his death in 1972.
If Not Art
Kusama's first stop in the U.S. was in Seattle where she had her first show, and soon after she moved to New York City. There, in the 1960s and '70s, she started to make a name for herself in the avantgarde art world, staging happenings and experimental performances, often protesting the Vietnam War. She spread her polka dot signature freely, sometimes using her body as a canvas and painting fluorescent polka dots on other naked women. Nudism brought notoriety. She also specialized in soft sculptures — once, for instance, filling an entire exhibit floor with stuffed, phallic-shaped pieces in red-on-white polka dots.
In 1973, she returned to Tokyo, planning on a short visit, but instead, she stayed. Losing her intimate friend Joseph Cornell had been traumatic and precipitated a breakdown. Afterwards, she began living in a mental health facility where she still remains. From there she walks to work in her nearby studio every day. She has reportedly tried to take her own life several times, and her first novel about her life in New York City in the '60s reflects her fragility; it was called, "Manhattan Suicide Addict." But making art is her salvation. She is often quoted as saying: "If it were not for art, I would have killed myself a long time ago." Her reputation in the U.S. waned for a couple of decades, but resurged around 2000, when she began creating her iconic Infinity Rooms, purposely built large chambers using an eclectic array of materials including mirrored glass, wood, aluminum, vinyl, rubber, plastic, acrylic balls and expansive swaths of LED lights to simulate vast starry skies. The installations' eye-popping colors and playful dance of shapes make them
instantly Instagrammable, helping her popularity skyrocket with a new audience in this century. Tickets to her exhibits sell out as if she were a rock star, and reverential visitors line up around the block to see the new work by this nonagenarian artist at museums around the world.
Pumpkins and Mirror Rooms
One striking piece in the SFMOMA show that Kusama calls "Aspiring to Pumpkin's Love, The Love in My Heart," will be on display through October 2025. It's an 18-foot elongated, five-stemmed pumpkin sculpture, in brilliant yellow, made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic. Its undulating walls are covered in an optical pattern of black dots, and the scale dwarfs and dazzles the many admirers who scramble around it.
Pumpkins seem to be kindred spirits for Kusama, a favorite motif like Monet's haystacks or Georgia O'Keeffe's flower petals. She came by this imagery naturally, as her parents owned a nursery and seed farm. Once, the story goes, she went to a big seed-harvesting farm with her grandfather and saw a pumpkin the size of a man's head among the zinnias. "It immediately began speaking to me in a most animated manner," she described in her autobiography. She started drawing pumpkins in elementary school and has embraced them as one of her favorite subjects ever since.
Another standout piece at the SFMOMA that will be on display through May 2025 is one of her celebrated Infinity Mirror Rooms, this one called "Dreaming of Earth's Sphericity, I Would Offer My Love." The viewer stands in the middle of the mirrored room and sees dozens of suspended, neon-colored spheres in red, blue, yellow and green reflected to create the illusion of never-spending space. The installations are so popular that each observer is given only a couple of minutes to experience the work, but the impact is trippy, original and mindexpanding.
An Inner Sense of Wonder
Beyond the warm reception of international audiences to her lifetime
of work, Kusama has recently been scrutinized and criticized for racist language in her autobiography of two decades ago. The criticism briefly threatened the SFMOMA show, but after the artist issued an apology — "I deeply regret using hurtful and offensive language in my book … the pain that I have caused" — the show went forward. SFMOMA Director Bedford explains that the museum continues to explore different ways to "present artists who are at once visionary and flawed; who create inspiring work but also have histories of harmful behavior or painful biases. Our goal as an institution is to engage in these difficult and complex conversations." A public program in the spring explored the criticism and Kusama's place in the canon.
Given this recent controversy and her history of personal angst, what sustains Kusama's longevity as an artist well into her 90s? Bedford sums up her creative force this way: "Her work has always emerged from a deep inner sense of wonder, questioning and desire to express herself. As a result, it's never been about prevailing trends or ideas, but rather an authenticity and uniqueness that have spurred its popularity. Many of her recent works, including her popular Infinity Mirror Rooms, tap into emotion and allow people to enter a different realm where they find their own joy, calm and inspiration."
"I hope my work can make the world more peaceful," Kusama said in the 2018 documentary about her life and art, "Kusama: Infinity." In turn, making and sharing her artworks provide this gifted and complicated artist her own sense of peace.
Elizabeth Fishel is the author of five nonfiction books including Sisters and Getting To 30: A Parent’s Guide to the 20-Something Years (with Jeffrey Arnett). She has contributed to numerous magazines including Vogue, Ms., New York, The Writer, and Oprah's O. She has written for Next Avenue since 2014.
source: www.nextavenue.org
Restaurant Play with Real Cooking Starring Your Grandchild as Host, Waiter, and Cook
Kids today often lag behind those of previous generations in their cooking skills. That's because, in today's fast-paced society, fewer parents have the time or energy to cook. As a result, families rely more upon fast food and eating out.
But teaching kids food preparation and how to cook offers them numerous benefits. For one, it's a practical and fun way for kids to learn and improve their math skills through measuring and calculating. It also provides kids with hands-on science experiences and opportunities to experiment. Another valuable aspect of cooking is that it improves kids' reading comprehension as they learn to follow step-by-step instructions. Add to this, cooking helps kids develop life skills, which boosts their self-confidence and self-esteem.
By Kimberly Blaker
advanced cooking and food preparation skills they're learning.
Preteens should learn how to safely use a sharp knife. They can also learn to cook slightly more advanced foods while also continuing to learn about food and cooking safety.
One thing many grandparents and grandkids enjoy doing together is baking and cooking from the time kids are small. Kids as young as 3 can learn simple food preparation skills. They can cut food using a plastic or butter knife, pour premeasured ingredients, spread sauces or batters, and stir.
During the early elementary years, kids can learn how to turn on and off the stove and some simple cooking skills. For example, they can learn to make scrambled eggs and warm up soup. At this age, kids also should learn safety rules, especially as related to the more
Finally, once kids reach their teens, they no longer require supervision in the kitchen. Not only can they prepare meals for themselves but also for the family. Though they may still enjoy the bonding experience of cooking with their grandparents.
Restaurant play
If you're looking for a new way to help your grandkids enjoy cooking, playing restaurant with real cooking is fun for all. Even before their teen years, kids can enjoy some semi-independent kitchen fun by playing restaurant. This way, they can gradually ease into independent cooking. By the age of 8, kids likely have enough kitchen skills for this activity.
Advance preparation
First, share the details of this activity with your grandchild. Then have him prepare a list of foods he knows how to make. For younger kids, the menu might include cold sandwiches, grilled cheese sandwiches, peeled and cut vegetables or fruit, scrambled or fried eggs, and other easy-toprepare foods.
Your preteen's menu could include hamburgers, pancakes, soup, roasted vegetables, and much more.
And for teens, the sky's the limit. If your teen chooses dishes that require a long time to prepare or cook, you'll likely want to 'call-in' your food order before arriving at the restaurant.
Once your grandchild has come up with dishes for the menu, review the list to make sure they can prepare them all safely with minimal supervision. Next, pick a date for the restaurant activity and make sure ingredients are available for everything on the menu. Also, decide who will patronize your grandchild's restaurant. If it's your grandchild's first time playing or your grandchild is young, 2 to 3 family members will be plenty. Older kids might be able to handle an extra guest or two depending on their skills and the complexity of the menu.
Design the menu
Before your grandchild creates the menu, help them set prices for the entrees. The prices should be substantially below real
restaurant prices, especially since you're footing the bill for the groceries. Also, remember, the idea behind this activity isn't about the money. It's supposed to be a fun learning experience. Still, charging for the food can add to the activity and gives your grandkid a chance to do some simple math.
The next step is to design a menu. Younger kids can make menus out of construction paper. They can also clip food pictures from magazines or print them off the internet.
Older kids might want to experiment with some graphic design. If your grandchild has already dabbled with graphic design, they might want to try Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator if you have it. Otherwise, a more simple app is better, so your grandchild doesn't get frustrated and turned off to graphic design. Canva's free menu templates are a good option. Visit https://www.canva. com/templates/menus/
Grand opening
Now the real fun begins. When your grandchild's restaurant opens, wait at the kitchen or dining room entry, and allow your host to seat you. Your server will bring you menus and water, and when you're ready will take your order.
As grandparents, you might be tempted to make it easy by encouraging everyone to order the same thing. But unless your grandchild has expressed concern about preparing multiple items, try to choose a variety. This is part of the fun and challenge for your grandchild.
After you've ordered, relax and enjoy some family conversation – and be prepared for a possible long wait. Also, avoid instructing your grandchild unless you see them doing something potentially dangerous.
When your food arrives, graciously thank your waiter (and cook). Then, be prepared to eat it regardless of how it turns out. If you're tempted to offer your grandchild some constructive criticism, don't. This should be a fun experience that encourages a love of cooking. Your
grandchild will improve with experience. If you really feel you have something to contribute in the way of cooking a particular food, wait until the next time you make it together. Then you can casually offer tips on how to make that dish turn out really tasty.
Finally, your grandchild should prepare and give you a check so you can pay for your meal.
Clean up
Be sure to let your grandchild know in advance that they'll also be responsible for cleanup. Hopefully, this will help keep the mess to a minimum. If not, it'll be a good lesson for the next time your grandchild cooks.
AUM OLLI Is Beginning a New Term
The AUM OLLI 2024 Fall Term begins September 16 and ends November 08. Classes meet once a week for an hour and a half – at 10:00 a.m., 12:45 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. (The one exception is that classes on November 05 –Voting Day – will meet November 12 instead.) There are the usual offerings in study/discussion, hands-on (DIY), and active courses. There are also lunch presentations, field trips, and workshops for the AUM OLLI members. Registration opens August 29 and continues until classes begin.
There are a few changes that have been made since the printed catalog was released. Courses that are made available to AUM OLLI members through the AU OLLI Shares initiative have been added. These courses include:
Local Naturalists
Gary Wagoner, Coordinator
Old Enough: Southern Women Artists and Writers on Creativity and Aging
Jay Lamar, Coordinator
The Instruments of Folk and Roots Music
Mike Reinke, Instructor
These courses are available through ZOOM (AUM OLLI members receive the link when they register for the course).
We have also postponed until 2025 Spring Term the course on The Art of Espionage: Intelligence Since 1945 and the lunch presentation on War and Diplomacy in Iran.
We are offering several workshops to determine the success of that format
for the AUM OLLI audience. There are three one-day workshops: Making Pillows, Painting a Skyscape in Oils, and Expanding “Dot” Painting Skills. There is also a two-day workshop that will meet at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts: Pottery.
Details about all of the AUM OLLI offerings are available on the website: www.aum.edu/olli.
Join AUM OLLI in the 2024 Fall Term to exercise your mind and your body as well as learn some skills that might lead to unique holiday gift-sharing.
Travel Experiences with Jeff Barganier
Good Vibes Monroe, North Carolina
A UPS truck caught fire on I-85; so, we languished in traffic east of Montgomery for 1.5 hours. My bladder compelled me to practically rappel down a steep and treacherous embankment through thorn-infested, jungle-like foliage into the opaque arms of nature. But grace abounds during times of stress and I was doubly relieved that no one seemed to notice. On the other hand, angry horns protested sleepy drivers when wheels turned again. Have American roads ever been more congested? And it’s disturbing to see this warning in rest areas:
WATCH FOR SIGNS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Our whirlwind business excursion to the Carolina’s got off to a false start. But we eventually encountered good vibes and good folks in the quaint town of Monroe (pop. circa 35,000). It’s located about 15
miles southeast of Charlotte and within Charlotte’s rapidly expanding metropolitan area. Gracious mansions adorn neighborhoods close to downtown where stands one of North Carolina’s prettiest courthouses. And we discovered other gems: The Grille at Franklin Court has delicious North Carolina, vinegar base, melt-in-your-mouth, pulled-pork BBQ. On Franklin Street—the main drag—is Monroe Massage. Thus, the town offers one-stop beauty, great food and relaxation. But that’s not all we discovered in this laid-back corner of North Carolina.
Secluded in lush green countryside about 10 miles south of Monroe is the peaceful Inn at Rosehill Stables. Our first positive impression of the Inn was an official car-door greeting by Merle. The Official Greeter is a friendly canine that lends its watchful ears and eyes to proprietor
Photography provided by Jeff Barganier
Good Vibes Inn at Rosehill Stables
The Drive to Inn at Rosehill Stables
Janice Smith, proprietor/ hostess
The Grounds at The Inn
and hostess Janice Smith. Our second positive impression was the hostess herself waiting on the long porch to personally greet us. And our third positive impression was a perfect night’s rest. Janice maintains a strict rule for quietness to reign after nine. One may step out onto the porch outside his or her bedroom to star-gaze in late evening … as long as they let the stars do the talking.
I arose with the chirping of the birds, snapped some “golden hour” photos of the grounds; and then joined Janice in the kitchen where she was busy preparing breakfast for us and other guests. She was happy to answer my questions about how a Manhattan girl ended up raising horses and operating a B&B in rural North Carolina. “I have fiftytwo acres here and I bought it in 2005 when it was a cow pasture. I built the stables, and then the lodge as an event center. I used to work in commercial real estate finance for Chase and Bank of America. I work for Nuveen now. I built the Inn in 2012 and 13 then went back to work. I used to run Bank of America’s Commercial Mortgage-backed Securities Servicing Group. I made it fourth in the country. That was such a fun assignment, working for them, getting to create that whole team. It was a blast. I love creating things. And now, creating this, I work all the time. So, I thought, wow, how am I going to retire? What’s going
to sustain me? And I thought, oh, I can live here and run this place. This is a lot of work! Very exhausting. But it’s okay. I have just brought on some help. I have twenty-four stalls. Nineteen horses in stalls and three or four in pastures. I have a Friesian—a gorgeous horse from the Netherlands. But he’s retired. I had another Friesian but he passed. He was the love of my life. I haven’t ridden in a while. I’m getting ready to ride again; so, I’m looking for a horse. Maybe a Lipizzaner.
“I was born in Manhattan. Then moved to New Jersey when I was a kid. My grandmother lived in New York. I was there every weekend. She was my hero. I worked in New York for ten years before I moved down here with Bank of America. I’d move back to New York in a heartbeat. But … the taxes!”
Janice paused to show me where the sugar and half ‘n half were. “What inspired you to do this?” I asked. She laughed. “I’m a little bit crazy? No. I had my horse. I was really into Friesians at that time. I thought, you know … it was a dream. I board sixteen or seventeen of these horses. We do training and equine facilitative learning (for people with special needs). Excuse me while I feed Merle. He has to eat first.” She laughs again.
“We have a big barn dance coming up
in mid-August. The seventeenth. We have a bluegrass band coming. It’ll be in the covered arena with tables—I have these adorable table cloths. We charge admission and it’s well attended. The Inn fills up for various things. Not necessarily for the barn dance. But I have a feeling this barn dance is going to. So, yeah, we do all kinds of stuff here. All of a sudden, it’s like we’re running on jet fuel. And, you know, it’s like I felt myself getting lonely at first.”
Not anymore. A grandmother, Janice is a boomer with much on her plate. But she’s focused, and bringing on the staff she needs to cope with all the work. She’s also an amazing multi-tasker as evidenced by how well she cooked breakfast while being interviewed by yours truly. Her sister is thinking of maybe moving to Rosehill too and lending a hand.
“Ever see any deer out here?” I asked. “It's not uncommon to spot deer, a fox, coyotes—a lot of coyotes because we have a ton of rabbits—even a beaver, and at least one blue heron on the property. You guys should just come spend a couple of days with us sometime and relax and enjoy the place,” she said. I’m sure that goes for Boom! readers too. The Inn is booking about fifteen room nights per month but Janice sees bookings picking up as the “secret is out.”
Jeff Barganier is a novelist, travel writer and speaker. He travels far and wide upon the slightest excuse for something interesting to write about. His novels include Lawson’s Bluff (2021); The Slash Brokers (1998). He also manages Cindy Barganier Interiors LLC (www.cindybarganier.com) at The Waters in Pike Road, Alabama. Contact Jeff at Jeffbarganier@ knology.net . You may print out his features at www.jeffbarganier.com and take them with you when you travel!
Monroe Court House
Front Porch at The Inn
Monroe Massage
This & tHAT i
Celebrate Hank Williams Life and Music September 14 in Montgomery
It is important to celebrate and recognize the birthday of one of Alabama's favorite sons and greatest legends. Starring The Malpass Brothers, best known as modern-day troubadours who carry the torch amongst the Legends. Come to see the energy and excitement of their highly polished show.Tickets: VIP $45.00-includes souvenir arm band and free admission to the Museum. General Admission $30.00. Tickets can be purchased online or call the Museum 334262-3600 www.TheHankWilliamsMuseum.net. Show location is at the Davis Theatre in Montgomery. Time: 3:00 PM Doors open at 2:15 No concessions are available inside the theatre. Annual Memorial Service and wreath laying will take place at 8:45am, Saturday the 14th at Oakwood Cemetery Annex. The Sheppard Family will perform for the Memorial Service. Following the ceremony there will be music at the Museum by Larry Darnell and Dalton McSwain 11:00am-2:00pm. Steel guitar show featuring noted steel guitar players Jeremy Drawbaugh, Jake Penrod, Jesse Personeni and Wyatt Aleman will kick off the show at 3:00 PM with guest appearances by Becky & Woodie Hill (Bass), Mary Battiata, Landon Smith (Drums) and Lanny Nichols (Guitar). The Emcee is Jay Dean from South Dakota and creator of Country Legends Jukebox.
Boomsters
An Unexpected Adventure by David Marks
David Blazen spent 50 years comfortable in his work routine but now is retired and desperately searching for purpose in his life. He ultimately finds it in the most unlikely of ways: by becoming a self-proclaimed detective. Travel through a labyrinth of adventure in this awardwinning novel, where suspense lurks around every corner and laugh-out-loud moments break through the tension. Follow David’s search for truth and justice as he gets mixed up with a cast of characters straight out of a Coen brothers movie and caught in a web of contentious cases, all within his first week on the job. The problem is, to succeed, he must become a criminal himself. THE STORY BEHIND THE STORY David Marks loved working, and after retiring, he discovered he hated not working even more. To pass the time, he began to tap notes into his iPhone about a fictional character facing the same challenges. And just like that, Boomsters was born. ABOUT THE AUTHOR David Marks launched DM Merchandising, a wholesale marketplace for business owners, in 1988. He spent 30 years relying on his creativity in the hopes of developing the world's greatest impulse products. He never associated “scary, disconcerting, or lost” with the idea of retirement, but that's the reality he discovered and that many Baby Boomers like him are facing. It's an uncomfortable feeling to suddenly not feel consequential. This book was challenging to write, but it was also entertaining. The story gave David direction. It gave him purpose. Put bluntly, it made retirement fun.
David Marks
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Zoobilation / The wildest party in town
Join us for Zoobilation, the wildest party in town, at the Montgomery Zoo. This fun-filled evening will feature casual dining samplings from many of the region’s finest eateries and beverage vendors; soulful, toe-tapping, live entertainment; digital auction, mix and mingle with community leaders, and…. we might even throw in a few surprises to make the evening more grand and festive. Zoobilation event details: Thursday night, September 12, 6pm-10pm @ the Montgomery Zoo (2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36110), Tickets may be purchased advanced online or in-person, the night of the event, Awesome date night, and fun for a group of friends, group discounts available, PURCHASE YOUR ZOOBILATION TICKETS NOW at www.montgomeryzoo.com, Individual tickets: $65 per ticket* Group tickets (10-29 tickets): $60 per ticket* Group tickets (30+ tickets): $55 per ticket*All Zoobilation guests and participants must be at least 21 years old to attend.
Caregiver of the Month Spotlight: Kimberly Barnett
Kimberly Barnett has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to excellence, going above and beyond expectations to achieve exceptional results. She is a valuable asset to our team, and her positive attitude and willingness to help others are truly appreciated. What she enjoys most about being a caregiver is helping her clients and being able to assist them stay in their homes safely. Kimberly becomes family to each and every client she gets to work with. She certainly does make people happy! She finds great satisfaction when she sees her client improve under her care. Thank You Kimberly for all the hard work.
We appreciate your hard work and dedication, thank you for a job Well Done!! For more information visit www.homecareassistancemontgomery.com
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Montgomery Botanical Gardens Opens Fall Season with Pottery in the Garden Class
The Montgomery Botanical Gardens at Oak Park kicks off its fall season with a Pottery in the Garden class, to be taught in the Wisdom Wood outdoor classroom by Margaret Barber on Saturday, September 14 at 10:00 AM. The class will teach participants the fundamentals of pottery and the opportunity to create a piece of garden pottery. Ms. Barber is a native of Mississippi who made Alabama her home about 25 years ago. She loves color and texture, the outdoors and the infinite inspiration nature provides. She has been making ceramic pieces for more than thirty years, and she is a member of the MS Craftsman’s Guild. Currently, Ms. Barber’s work is a combination of whimsy and function. Her hand-built and wheel-thrown pieces are made of white stoneware or Alabama clay. All participants are asked to bring something non-metal (wood, plastic, shells) to press into clay. Other supplies will be furnished. Seating is available, but participants may wish to bring folding chairs. Water will be furnished. Upcoming classes include What Do I Do with All This Rosemary?, taught by Janell Diggs, Saturday, October 12 at 10:00 AM; and Making Holiday Arrangements with Ferns, taught by Maggie Stringer, Saturday, November 9 at 10:00 AM.Classes are free and open to the public. Water is provided. Visit https://www.montgomerybotanicalgardens.com/
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Please present coupon or mention you saw it in the BOOM! Digital Issue. Offer Expires 9/30/2024
Receive an additional 10% off if you are a Senior Citizen, Military or 1st Responder
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, September 4, 2024 “Japanese Maples in Your Garden”. Rhona Watson, Advanced Master Gardener, will present “Japanese Maples in Your Garden”. Have you always wanted Japanese Maples in your landscape? Do they need sun or shade? What size should I get? Are there various colors to select? Where can they be purchased? Do they all change colors in the Fall? Rhona has lots of answers so be sure to join us! October 2, 2024 “Creepy Critters” Dr. Wesley Anderson, AU Wildlife Specialist, will present “Creepy Critters”. Do spiders and snakes give you the creeps? What about those small lizards that crawl into our houses? Are moles, voles, and armadillos tearing up your yard? Don’t call Ghostbusters, come to the October Lunch and Learn program instead! BRING A SACK LUNCH, FREE PROGRAM, WATER PROVIDED, For information, please contact the Montgomery County Extension Office (334) 245-8053. Also visit www.capcitymga.org.
Margaret Barber
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Amy Grant – Montgomery Performing Arts Centre
Amy Grant’s career spans more than 40 years and stretches from her roots in gospel into becoming an iconic pop star, songwriter, television personality and philanthropist. With three multi-platinum albums, six platinum albums and four gold albums, her total career album sales have exceeded 30 million and over 1 billion global streams. Grant’s chart success has been consistent throughout her career with six No. 1 hits, 10 Top 40 pop singles, 17 Top 40 Adult Contemporary tracks and multiple Contemporary Christian charttoppers. In addition to her six GRAMMY® Awards, Grant has earned 26 GMA Dove Awards (including four Artist of the Year Awards) and has been awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame as well as the Music City Walk of Fame and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. For tickets www.mpaconline.org
ANTIQUES AT THE GARDENS
October 3–6, 2024, Join us this fall for the 18th annual Antiques at the Gardens, Birmingham's premier antiques show presented by McCorquodale Transfer and design sponsor Lee Jofa. This event will feature an impressive lineup of internationally acclaimed speakers, designers, and 25 renowned dealers offering exquisitely curated antiques, fine art, jewelry, and more. Seating is limited for lectures, so purchase tickets in advance. The weekend kicks off with the Gala in the Gardens on Thursday, October 3, an enchanting evening honoring William R. “Bill” Ireland, Jr. Guarantee gala tickets by becoming a sponsor! Proceeds benefit Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Shopping hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. https://bbgardens.org/antiques-at-the-gardens/
Jan's Beach House Grill
of Jan's at www.facebook.com/JansBHG
at 11 am, Great Food!
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Montgomery Oyster Festival @ Old Alabama Town
MGM Oyster Festival showcases the best of Alabama’s oyster farmers, featuring local and regional chefs, and live music in a unique setting. Saturday, September 14 · 3 - 7pm CDT. Old Alabama Town, 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104. Montgomery Oyster Festival, is one of the River Region’s signature events, produced by Lightning Line and held in the charming environment of Old Alabama Town. This special event benefits the Landmarks Foundation and showcases the best of Alabama’s oyster farmers, featuring local and regional chefs, and live music. Join us in celebrating Alabama’s culinary heritage on September 14th, 2024. Tickets can be purchased at www.eventbrite.com
Greg Budell, Radio Legend
My shows are true team successes. My long-time sidekick Susan Woody returned to the morning show and after 7 years the chemistry is still there. With a legend like Rich Thomas in place and Jay Scott, we are having more fun than ever.
This month’s cover profile is Greg Budell, a live radio survivor, and when you reach his age, you become a radio legend, too. His radio gigs, 3 Men & A Lady, mornings 6-9 am on NewsTalk 93.1 FM and Happy Hour from 3-6 pm also on NewsTalk 93.1 FM. are two of the best live radio shows anywhere in the Southeast. In addition, Greg has been writing a column for BOOM! since July 2011. He’s a special friend to all of us who reside on this side of 50. And as many of you can attest, Greg is a piece of work or, should I say, a work in progress. He has lived life as large as anyone and has probably crashed and burned a few times along the way, just like many of us. He then came to Montgomery in 2005 to begin one more time, building another radio empire with Bluewater Broadcasting. He consistently relates to his daily audience, and they relate to him and the personalities that he includes in his shows. As Greg turned another year older, we wanted to share some of his story with our readers this month. Happy Birthday, Friend! Keep aging well!
BOOM!: You are Montgomery’s top radio personality and have been on the air since 2005. Would you share more about your background and how you found yourself in Montgomery, Alabama?
Greg: I had 25 great years in Miami, and had options there- but when the man (Bluewater Broadcasting CEO Rick
Peters) who gave me my shot in Miami bought a group of Montgomery stations, he expressed interest in a reunion. I was ready for something new so I grabbed the opportunity. It worked out far beyond what either of us expected in our wildest dreams 20 years ago!
BOOM!: You’ve been in the radio
industry most of your life; how did you get into radio? What has been the most rewarding aspect of it?
Greg: Radio fascinated me in high school (Chicago). From childhood I’d wanted some type of broadcasting career and knocked on
L-R, Ricj Thomas, Greg, Susan Woody and Jay Scott 3 Men & A Lady, mornings on NewsTalk 93.1 FM
A just a few awards Geg has received, L-R: Miami's Best Newscast, Miami Radio Personality of the Year (center front), Rookie of the Year (center rear), Difference Maker Award, Montgomery. Displayed on his classic Crosley Radio
doors until someone gave me a shot. I did whatever job they wanted. I was a fulltime student at Illinois while working as a $2 an hour talk show producer for NBC. I started my own Radio Research company at the same time and compiled tons of stats on listeners. I was a bit of a phenom then because nobody else was studying audiences and trends the way I was. ABC-FM commissioned me to do a study (which I also turned in as a term paper .. lol.. got paid and an “A”). The GM asked if I wanted to try going on air and my whole career path changed. The reward is beyond money. Being included in people’s daily routine because they “need” you in it is gratifying. Ultimately, I’ve had the chance to change opinions and lives. I’m most proud of my success in raising awareness and money, many millions over the years, for great causes.
BOOM!:
You are considered the hardest working guy on the radio, with 2 top shows MondayFriday on Montgomery Newstalk Radio 93.1. Would you describe your shows and what it takes to succeed in each?
Greg: My shows are true team successes. My long-time sidekick Susan Woody returned to the morning show and after 7 years the chemistry is still there. With a legend like Rich Thomas in place and Jay Scott, we are having more fun than ever.
In the afternoon, I’ve added some great talent to give each day its own “personality”. National political blogger David Blackmon and I explore the American Idiocracy Monday and Thursday. He circulates video podcasts of those shows. History savant Mark Groubert (America’s Untold Stories on YouTube) is a Thursday regular. I’ve added two amazing women in the last year. Ellen Murray is Movie Maven Miss Murray M-W-F at 535. Streaming is huge and she does a brilliant
job analyzing and recommending entertainment. Pamela Jean, a veteran and successful businesswoman, has become a Wednesday regular, and realtor/Bon Vivant Eddie Bader sidekicks on Fridays. Rosie Brock is the rock every day in studio and keeps me in line. Most of the time!
BOOM!: You are a creative, which shows up every day in your radio shows and your writing, such as your monthly columns in BOOM! since 2011. How would you describe your writing process? What is it about writing that gives you satisfaction? Are there any big writing projects on the horizon?
Greg: Writing is my first love. BOOM is a great platform for me. I love telling stories, and writing humor- and you, Mr. Watson have been the ultimate pillar of free speech. I want readers to know how much I appreciate your support. I started writing monthly columns 20 years ago while still in South Florida. My big project is threading all these tales into one big book of essays with photos. I need a publisher! Interested? It’ll be fun!
BOOM!: You have a birthday this month. On September 27th, how old will you be? What advice would the Greg of 2024 give to the younger Greg?
Greg: In 2024, Greg would tell young Greg, “Find a way to keep God in your life as you pursue your dreams.” But would young Greg listen to a 72-year-old man? That's a good question!
BOOM!: You’re a dad, and there’s not much that means more to you than that. How would you describe your special relationship with your daughter Janelle? What are some of the special moments
Proud Papa Greg and daughter Janelle
Greg with Dad (Benjamin)
"Greg with two life-long loves, the beach and Old Glory"
you’ve shared together?
Greg: I am SO proud of her! In the last year, she, too, left South Florida for greater opportunities and is now an integral part of the Audubon Zoo and Aquarium in New Orleans. I visit her every month and love the city. We enjoy good food and chill time. Her wedding day was the moment of moments. When her marriage ended, she dusted herself off (kinda like her old man!) and earned a huge promotion at work, and bought her first house! She owns a new car and has more money than I do- and I couldn’t be happier about it.
This Christmas, we will watch Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation together- a tradition going back many years- because I am Clark Griswold.
BOOM!: What are you most passionate about?
Greg: Cheating death and enjoying life! Ray Kroc, the founder of McDonald’s, said, “When you’re green, you’ll grow, and when you’re ripe, you’ll rot.” Seriously, I feel like I’ve yet to do my best radio show or write my best piece. I keep my work green with people, finding partners and contributors who help keep things fresh. I love finding new talent. I have bosses who believe in me. Who has it better than that?
BOOM!: What do you like about living in the River Region area? What do we need more of?
Greg: We need more citizen engagement and better leadership. Taxpaying citizens
must demand a responsible government that cares about their safety. Local governments in the River Region must create a reality and perception of safe communities and neighborhoods. Safe communities are a hallmark of the excellent quality of life we all deserve. The best thing about living here is the people. Salt of the earth. They are good folks with caring hearts. Every city has its unique features and attractions, and there are plenty in the River Region, but above and beyond that, we have the best human beings.
BOOM!: How do you like to relax and wind down from a full day of mental activity on your radio shows?
Greg: I push myself to the limit with work and exercise and would argue that I’m in the best shape of my life right now. At the end of the day, I explore YouTube for documentaries on everything from tornados to Winston Churchill (an amazing man). I try to end every day falling asleep while learning something new.
added to the Council On Substance Abuse Board of Directors. Imagine that for a guy who’d lost everything but life itself, crawled out of a gutter, got sober one day at a time, and got a new and better life for the effort. When people see someone like me destroying their life through alcohol or drugs, they say, “Why don’t you just stop?” understandably so. It took consequences to compel my change. Stopping requires help. Sobriety requires help. Asking for it and doing what’s suggested requires a force more significant than the powerful physical demand for chemicals. That force is God. There is great power in recognizing our powerlessness over people, places, and things.
BOOM!: Would you share some of your journey with recovery and sobriety?
Greg: I was recently
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?
Greg: I think we prosper when we contribute to the world in some way. I’m lucky. I can still do what I love. My voice is still solid, my marbles roll in the same direction, and I have no intention of retiring. For those who’ve retired, renewal comes from caring about someone or something. You get what you give in this life, so finding ways to give of your wisdom and resources keeps it green.
My weight was not helping. I found ways to work on it, taking it a day at a time, and now I’m down 60 pounds! The key is not looking for overnight solutions. It takes discipline and patience.
BOOM!: What are some of your favorite travel experiences? Favorite getaway
Greg's thank you from Pope John Paul II for MCeeing his 1987 Miami Mass.
A festive touch Greg treasures - a holiday tree that changes year round. This was Father's Day 2024
Eddie Bader, realtor, bon vivant, radio sidekick
spot? Are any travel dreams planned?
Greg: I have done live broadcasts from London at the BBC, Paris, Disneyland and Disney World, the Seaworld Blimp and all over the Caribbean, so combining work and travel was great. I’d love to see Dealey Plaza in Dallas, Pearl Harbor in Hawaii and maybe London, again. My favorite getaway is Shangri-La!
BOOM!: As you’ve aged, how have your priorities changed? How would you describe what it means to “age well”? What are your thoughts on retirement?
Greg: Priority one is always God and sobriety because, for me, nothing else is possible without Them. Despite my past challenges with addiction, I was still a good family man. I do my best for people I love, and since life’s been so good to me, sometimes for people I don’t know at all.
BOOM!: As an experienced political observer, please give us your take on this year’s historic presidential race. Do you have any thoughts on who will be celebrating on November 6th?
Greg: If Donald Trump stays on point, he should win easily. If they steal this election, well. I don’t want to think about it. America needs a good boss. Trump made us energy-independent, kept inflation low, and prevented us from being involved in wars. What in the name of almighty God is wrong with America being great? Most good bosses are
tough. We have lost our way, turning the Presidency into a battle of personalities instead of principles.
BOOM!: What future challenges are you contemplating for your career? For yourself?
Greg: I must finish my book. MUST FINISH BOOK! It will be funny, heartfelt and honest. There will be threads for some Lifetime movies in it too, no doubt. For the complete answer, check the next question!
BOOM!: What’s the backstory of your desire to make a great Key Lime Pie? Where can our readers buy one?
Greg: Many years ago, I was introduced to the key lime pie at the world-famous Joe’s Stone Crabs in Miami Beach. I finally have a formula that people seem to love. I’ve sold thousands of them and my dream is to produce them for commercial distribution. I have local businesses willing to carry them. I need a start-up advisor!! I need a business savvy BOOMer! Right now I accept orders via email- gregbudell@aol.com
BOOM!: Give us three words that describe you.
Greg: Wordsmith. Generous. Passionate. Good radio call letters, WGP!
continued on next page
GREG will not share his secret Key Lime Pie recipe with RICH or anyone...place your orders at gregbudell@aol.com
RICH THOMAS shares his RESCUE dog, CHASE with dog lover GREG
Rosie the Rock (producer)
Pamela Jean, sidekick
We want to thank Greg for sharing some of his life's story with us this month. Greg has become a radio legend because he's the ultimate professional, striving for better listening experiences for his audience and a committment to renewal, at any age. Many of his dreams were shattered but his dream of becoming an important part of live radio in the River Region became his reality over the past 19 years. We're proud to share more of his story and to call him friend! We hope you’ll share Greg's story with friends and family; they’ll enjoy the reading experience. If you want to reach out to Greg, please email him at gregbudell@aol.com and be sure to listen to 93.1 NewsTalk FM, Monday-Friday, 6-9 am and 3-6 pm. 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
Thanks for Reading BOOM!
"Greg's faithful BFF, Briscoe"!
Yoga Mat Spray
Although it very much feels like summer here this week (still August when I’m writing this) – in the 90’s most days, the leaves are starting to fall and there are chestnuts and acorns on the ground. When I drive my son to school I see the gradual changes in the color of the trees on our route. Autumn is such a pretty time of year and although officially not started yet, it feels like it has.
With the changing seasons comes a desire to play with a whole different set of essential oils. Moving away from the bright citrus and sweet florals of summer to the more warm and spicy aromas of Autumn.
It is a myth that many people buy into that you must use the same essential oils for the same outcomes all year round. “Melaleuca”, for example, would have you believe that Tea Tree is the answer to everything. Don’t get me wrong, it has MANY uses, but so do so many other oils. I think it’s a shame that we limit ourselves to just one or two when there are so many options out there.
I (LogHouse Aromatics) recently collaborated with a local Yoga Studio to make a yoga mat spray specifically for their practitioners. It had to be antibacterial, anti-viral, preferably anti-fungal and anti-microbial. The owner wanted Tea Tree in it, primarily because she buys Melaleuca cleaning products and knows that it has all the listed properties.
I argued the fact that yes, Tea Tree has all those properties and more, but so do many other oils that smell a whole lot better. Tea tree has a very distinctive, medicinal smell to it that I wasn’t sure people would like so much when their
nose was right on it on their yoga mat. Nothing like doing a downward dog and having the sharp astringent aroma of tea tree wafting up your nostrils!
So I asked her what her favorite fragrance was. Turns out she loves Lavender! Lavender has many awesome properties, including antifungal and antibacterial, so that’s two off our list right away.
I made her three samples to try, and for her yoga practitioners to try. The vote was unanimous, but I’ll go through the options and why and let you decide which you think you would like the best. 1) Lavender and Lemon – we know lavender is antifungal and antibacterial. Lemon is also antibacterial, but has antiviral and antimicrobial properties too. So that’s all four properties covered and an awesome aroma combination.
2) Lavender and Tea Tree – all four properties plus extra antifungal and antibacterial from the lavender, and hopefully mellow out the medicinal aroma somewhat.
3) Lemon, Lavender and Peppermint
– Lemon is antibacterial, antiviral and antimicrobial; Lavender is antifungal and antibacterial, Peppermint (the new one in the mix) is antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral. So we have three different oils that are antibacterial, two that are antiviral, two that are antifungal and one antimicrobial. The thing to note is that when we combine oils with similar properties, the synergy between than is often much more powerful than using just one oil alone.
If you haven’t worked it out yet, the unanimous favorite was number three – Lemon, Lavender, Peppermint. Everybody loved it, so that is the one we have proceeded with.
A word of caution when adding peppermint – we tend to be a bit heavy handed with it as it smells SO good, but a little goes a really long way. You would only use 1-2 drops in a 100ml bottle (compared to 10-12 drops of lavender and 8-10 of lemon). It can be quite dangerous to use too much, especially near mucus membranes and on a yoga mat your whole face is right on there. You would see people getting teary eyed and possibly having respiratory issues if too much was used. It really is imperative that you know what you are doing.
Our beautiful frosted glass bottles with rose gold tops just adds to the beauty of the blend. It really is a joy to use. Don’t get stuck in a rut. Experiment with aromas, but safely please. Consult an aromatherapist (like me) if you’re unsure.
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.
How To Keep Your Retirement On Track in a World of Low Returns
As a retiree, are you at risk for outliving your income? A serious question for serious times. Recently, several key assumptions traditionally used in retirement income planning are being challenged by leading financial industry experts. Are retirees who made those traditional assumptions still okay?
For example, lately several famous market observers, including John Bogle¹, the founder of the Vanguard Group, have warned that investors should reduce their expectations for their stock market investment returns to 4% a year. Ray Dalio², founder of one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world, also recently warned that “investment returns will be very low going forward.”
In addition, several leading studies have challenged the validity of the traditional “4% rule.” Developed back in the 1990’s when interest rates were higher for CDs and bonds, the rule stated that if a retiree kept their withdrawals limited to 4% of their initial retirement portfolio balance, that it should provide a sustained income for thirty years of retirement. However, Wade Pfau³, a professor of retirement income at the American College of Financial Services and Michael Finke of Texas Tech University, found that given the sustained current level of low interest rates that the level of acceptable initial withdrawals needed to be limited to 2.85% to provide an income for thirty years of retirement.
Financial Thoughts with Susan Moore
By Susan Clayton Moore, J.D. Principal of Moore Wealth Management, Inc.
The Stanford Center on Longevity recently published a study that recommended that retirees should focus on sources that were not exposed to stock market risk to cover essential expenses, i.e., Social Security or an annuity of one type or another. It found that if income to cover essential expenses was exposed to stock market risk that the emotional cost of worrying about meeting expenses during a stock market downturn would prompt many investors to make ill-advised investment decisions.
On Wednesday, September 25th, Susan Moore of Moore Wealth Management, Inc. will be conducting a complimentary webinar on methods of how to not outlive your retirement income. The
workshop covers a number of issues including factoring in the abovementioned changes to traditional assumptions, key risks (i.e., sequence rate of return and inflation), and various approaches to mitigating the risks of outliving your income.
If you would like to be included in the webinar, please call 334.270.1672 or sarah@moorewealthmanagement.com
Susan Clayton Moore, J.D., is a financial advisor and wealth manager of Moore Wealth Management, Inc., with offices in 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 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.financial-planning.com/opinion/jack-bogleforecasts-lower-stock-and-bond-returns ²https://www.zerohedge.com/news/2016-10-11/ investment-returns-will-be-very-low-going-forward-raydalio-says-gold-could-prove-pr
³https://www.onefpa.org/journal/Pages/The%204%20 Percent%20Rule%20Is%20Not%20Safe%20in%20a%20LowYield%20World.aspx
