Don’t get
whooped
by whooping cough. Get your Tdap immunization to prevent whooping cough (pertussis). Pertussis can last for weeks and can often result in hospitalization. Pertussis cases are increasing rapidly. Adolescents and adults are the primary source of infection for infants and children. Parents, grandparents, and other caretakers of children should get a dose of Tdap. Infants and children should get DTaP vaccine. For more information, go to adph.org/immunization or contact your health care provider.
Immunization Division Alabama Department of Public Health
BOOM!, The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Contents
November 2010
“Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.”
Volume I Issue 3
Carl Bard
Thought Humor Relationships Taste Health Inspiration Advice
Features 12 Serving Wine
6
with Confidence at your holiday get togethers.
“Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.” Mark Twain
Publisher’s Letter
11 Peter Pan
Back by popular demand for 25th anniversary.
20 Grandparents Get Ready
14 Top Ten Things...
Best toys for the holidays.
She won’t tell her mother-in-law.
24 Play It Again
16 Woodstock Museum
Gram!
Calling all Boomers & Woodstockers.
Classic games to keep them occupied.
22 Healthy Hearing Tinnitus and solutions.
24 Vaccines page 8
Departments 8 This and That
To use or not, a few tidbits of information.
28 12 Things
Something to do for active Boomers and beyond.
Beyond the Flu Shot.
30 Grumpy Aging Boomer Purposeless Life-The Sequel
Cover Profile Stan Tew page 12
page 20 page 28
BOOM! magazine is published monthly by River Region Publications, 8637 Harvest Ridge Dr., Montgomery, AL 36116. The phone number for voice and fax is 334. 396.3073. Copyright 2010 by River Region Publications. No part of this publication can be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Opinions expressed in BOOM! magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
4 BOOM!
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
DiD you know?
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IN WRITING yeAr wArrAnty yeArS free bAtterieS yeArS loSS And dAmAge inSurAnCe
Shandi L. Dabbs, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology, FAAA
Applicable with the purchase of an AGX5, 7 or 9.
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OPELIKA 2204-D Gateway Dr
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publisher’s letter
Single Grandparent The mission of BOOM! is to serve the folks of the River Region age 50 plus with information and ideas to inspire new experiences, better quality of life and new beginnings.
I’m a single grandparent. Some of you are single parents. Still others are just single. Being a single anything can be tough sometimes, especially during the months of November and December. Now don’t get me wrong, I love the holidays and all the sentiment and traditions we share each year. What makes the holidays so challenging for me is gift giving, or should I say more appropriately, gift buying!
Publisher/Editor Jim Watson
jim@riverregionboom.com
Associate Editor Kelly Watson
kelly@riverregionboom.com
Opinion Research Jo Newell
jo@riverregionboom.com
Contributing Writers Emily Abedon
Dr. Bettie Borton
Jennifer Ching Patricia Gale Karen Garloch Kathy Satterfield Scotty Scott
Alisa Singer Stan Tew Diane W. Stoneback
Cover Photography
Maria Wiggins, Reflections of Grace clay.maria@gmail.com
Advertising
Jim Watson, 334.324.3472 jim@riverregionboom.com
Design & Layout Lake House Graphics
Distribution
Network Delivery
Printing
Publications Press, Montgomery, AL 334.244.0436
To me the standard for all gift giving is to give the perfect gift, simple as that. Nowadays, the thoughtfulness behind holiday gift giving has been replaced with a very detailed list, with very few exceptions to what has been requested. “Buy this item and it will be the perfect gift, I promise.” What happened to knowing that person well enough that you knew Jim Watson, Publisher what gift would not only be a wonderful surprise but would also communicate that you know them well? To me that’s the real joy in giving, to care enough to know someone, to listen and understand, and then when you give a gift they see your heart. Now that’s easy to explain to you, but my five grandchildren, they don’t get it and wouldn’t give me a whole lot of time to try and explain it.
My problem with gift giving is not with my grandkids, it’s with me. In the past, my late wife would organize, research, discuss and buy 98% of all the gifts for our children, grandchildren, sisters, brothers, mothers and the dog. She was tireless in her efforts, and I was overwhelmed by the magnitude, because my role was simply to offer some comments along the way a suggestion now and then, which she occasionally thought was worth getting. After she passed away, I understood quickly that a single grandparent (especially an untrained, Christmas-gift shopping, single grandparent) would have to abandon the “Perfect Gift” standard and go with something on the list I was given. Hard to miss on a personal request. I have since adapted to being a single grandparent and better understand what needs to be done to still get a gift that matters. It doesn’t happen every time, but my heart still wants it to. So I keep up the struggle until it seems to get easier. I enjoy gift giving now because I have a much deeper appreciation for anyone, especially the women in our lives, who literally make the joy of gift giving happen. Thanks!
In this month’s issue of BOOM! we have researched the best toys for your grandkids because I know it takes awhile to figure all that stuff out, so you better start early! Another way to get ready for the holidays is in your festive get togethers. Scotty Scott has shared some simple wine planning rules and food pairings to give you just the right amount of confidence to have a very merry entertaining holiday. Remember, he’s available for any wine questions you may have and he does have the answers.
I want to encourage you to check out our cover profile this month. Stan grew up in Montgomery and some of you may know him from his days at Lanier High School or Troy. He retired in the last two years but he’s as active as ever, especially joy riding in the airplane he just built. I want to thank everyone for their comments about BOOM! and their desire to be involved with us as we strive to serve the 100,000 folks in the River Region who are age 50+. You inspire this 60 year “young” man. Happy Thanksgiving and, always, good gifting.
Please Recycle This Magazine, Share with a Friend!
Jim jim@riverregionboom.com 334.324.3472 cell/text
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
r i ve r reg i o n b o o m . co m
November 2010
BOOM!
7
i
This & tHAT
Eudora Welty, Exposures and Reflections Troy University Rosa Parks Museum November 11- January 7, 2010 “A snapshot’s now or never,” recalled Eudora Welty about her photos of the 1930s South. The writer’s Great Depression “snapshots” were published in an American chronicle entitled One Time, One Place. Eudora Welty, Exposures and Reflections is a landmark exhibit of the photos developed in partnership by the Mobile Museum of Art with the Southern Literary Trail and the Alabama Humanities Foundation. Traveling along the Southern Literary Trail through Autumn 2011, Eudora Welty, Exposures and Reflections leads audiences on a unique journey to another time and another place with 40 of her photographs, while providing a contemporary look into Welty’s life as writer and Southerner. Curated and organized by The Museum of Mobile from the writer’s original negatives, this exhibit will open at the Troy University Rosa Parks Museum on November 11, 2010. For more information call 334.241.8701 or visit www.montgomery.troy.edu/rosaparks
SHEEEEE’S BACK! Baby Boomers, get ready to feel the burn again! Jane Fonda, 72, is springing back into her workout gear this fall to release two new DVDs designed for the generation that came of age feeling the burn from her first blockbuster workout tape, Jane Fonda’s Workout, debuted in 1982. “I’m very excited to be back in the fitness business,” Fonda told PEOPLE. “I know from experience and from my research how critical it is for boomers and seniors to be physically active. Even if they’ve never exercised in their lives, now’s the time and my programs are a good, safe way to do it.” The two titles, Jane Fonda: Prime Time Walkout and Jane Fonda: Prime Time Fit & Strong — both due out Nov. 30 — are not only for the senior set. Fonda says she also hopes to inspire “people who think that they are too far unfit to get fit again.”
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Conservative, White, Female Baby Boomers A recent study by the Barna Group indicated that the majority of the unchurched in America are conservative, white, female Baby Boomers. The same study indicated that nearly two-thirds of the unchurched have not gone to service in the last six months. Four of every 10 stopped going to service because of negative past experiences. A report from Tucson Liberal Christian Examiner cited five reasons why people stopped going to church. The reasons are:
* Christians treating other Christians poorly;
* Christians with “holier than thou” attitudes; * Believers talking more than they listen;
* Christian refusal to get involved in the lives of the unchurched; * Christians saying they believe, but do not attend church.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Hey Gramps, teach them to be a ZILLIONAIRE! Getting one’s finances in order is at the top of most parents’ and Grandparents lists. So why not show kids how to become fiscally responsible with a fun-to-use money management tool? Summit™ Toy, known for developing innovative, creative toys with a learning twist, is introducing the newest addition to the popular Zillionz line: the ZILLIONAIRE™ personal savings machine. This state-of-the-art interactive and customizable personal savings machine encourages and helps young money managers to handle money matters and set financial goals while having fun! With a push of a button, kids can set up a customized savings program, create a personal password, view their savings balance, and set up deposit reminders in pursuit of a particular financial goal. Designed for kids five years and up, the Zillionaire will be exclusively available at Toys R Us fall 2010. Approximate retail price is $49.99. 19th Annual Christmas Lights Festival Montgomery Zoo December 2 – 31st, (2nd-5th, 9th-12th, 16th-31st) The City of Montgomery Zoo is excited to offer Montgomery’s best Christmas light display. Thousands of Christmas Lights illuminate The Montgomery Zoo
welcomes Max J. Moczygemba, MD Internal Medicine
in shapes of animals and Christmas themes. See the beautiful displays by train or by foot. Enjoy live entertainment, food, gifts and pictures with Santa. More information, 334.240.4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com “Home for the Holidays” Craft Show & Tasting Fair Charis Crafters Invites YOU to the Twelfth Annual “Home for the Holidays” Craft Show & Tasting Fair 410 South Main Street, Wetumpka, Alabama (Wetumpka Civic Center) Friday, November 12, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday, November 13, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Tickets $5.00. One Ticket good for Both Days! Door Prizes Every Hour! 500 Recipe First Edition Cookbook $12.00, 650 Recipe Second Edition NEW Cookbook $15.00 First & Second Cookbook Set $25.00 Ticket/cookbook proceeds donated to charity. Contact: Sheila Green 334-567-3594 or Patricia McCullers 334-567-5785 The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Max, please call 334-293-5778.
Jackson Hospital is pleased to welcome Dr. Max Moczygemba, a board certified physician in internal medicine. He has a strong commitment to both medical and academic standards of excellence. Practicing medicine since 1980, he has a special interest in geriatric care. Prior to entering medical school, Dr. Moczygemba earned master’s degrees and worked in the field of petroleum engineering. His hobbies include photography and playing tennis. Dr. Moczygemba joins physician E. Shane Cunningham, DO at the Jackson Clinic. Most commercial insurance and Medicare accepted.
Goode Building • 1722 Pine Street Suite 502 • Montgomery, AL 36101 r i ve r reg i o n b o o m . co m
November 2010
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Do You Advertise...?
The Boomer Market is Too Big to Ignore, how will you seize the opportunity?
Boomers -- those individuals born between 1946 and 1964 -- the largest demographic segment in the United States, numbering 78 million, and leading the nation in spending at roughly $2 trillion annually! People over 50, collectively have $2.5 trillion in annual income and 2 times the discretionary spending power of any other group, are set to inherit between $14 trillion and $20 trillion in the next 20 years, and account for 60 percent of the spending on packaged goods. And then there are cars. The average American household buys 13 cars in its lifetime, but here’s the best part: Seven of those cars are bought after the head of household is over 50. New Empty-Nesters transitioning out of their child-rearing years, nearly 4 in 10 Boomers who have children are now empty-nesters, and report a new level of financial freedom as a consequence—with an additional $315 a month of disposable income.
BOOM! Magazine Delivers the Boomer Market
The Engstrom Institute
© 2010 American Cancer Society, Inc.
Take advantage of this new opportunity, contact Jim Watson, 334.324.3472 or jim@riverregionboom.com
Is it time for your annual mammogram? If getting a mammogram isn’t on your priority list, consider this: Research has proven that a regular mammogram is the best way to detect breast cancer when it’s most treatable. So in the unlikely chance there is a problem, you can do something about it. If you’re 40 or older, talk to your doctor about getting a mammogram. And contact us for a free information kit.
cancer.org | 1.800.227.2345
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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Peter Pan the Musical
The Alabama Shakespeare Festival Announces the Return of the Record Breaking Hit November 19-December 24 The biggest selling show in the history of the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Peter Pan the Musical, will return in all of its high flying glory as part of ASF’s Silver Anniversary season, Nov. 19-Dec. 24. Producing Artistic Director Geoffrey Sherman will once again direct the spectacle. Peter Pan the Musical broke all box office records when it was produced at ASF in 2007.
tion include Greyson Hammock, Tyler Lewin, Breanna Newton, Savannah Rigby, Crispen South and Joseph Sims.
Tyler Jakes, Eleni Kanalos, Caitlin McGee, Anthony Napoletano, Adam Pelligrene, Seth D. Rabinowitz, Roy San Filipo, Lynna Schmidt, Billy Sharpe, Roger Preston Smith, Eric Shorey, Maria Totten, Corey Triplett, Brett Warnke and Kent Zimmerman.
Others in the cast include Kevin Callaghan, Kevin Curtis, Lenny Daniel, Richard Gatta, Erik Gullberg, Tara L. Herwig,
Tickets start at $30 and are available through the ASF box office, by visiting on line at www.asf.net or by calling 1.800.841.4273. ASF is located at 1 Festival Drive in Montgomery’s beautiful Blount Cultural Park.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
New Cast!
New Choreography!
Featuring Broadway’s longest running Belle in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Sarah Litzsinger.
k
n
r e at G i f a G t! s e
ua
1
Emily Kinney, who recently starred in the film It’s Complicated, Broadway’s Spring Awakening and the national tour of the Tony Award-winning play August: Osage County will perform as Wendy. Montgomery area children in the produc-
StartS November 19!
Ja
Peter Pan the Musical will feature veteran Sarah Litzsinger in the title role and ASF favorite Rodney Clark returns as Captain Hook. Litzsinger has performed on Broadway and in national tours as Eva Peron in Evita, Eponine/Cosette in Les Miserables and has the distinction of being the longest running Belle in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast on Broadway. Clark most recently starred as Old Man in the ASF holiday hit A Christmas Story and as Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant in the world premiere and tour of Bear Country. Clark also performed the role of Captain Hook in ASF’s 2007 production of Peter Pan the Musical.
the Musical
Ma
In this classic musical, Peter Pan, Wendy, John, Michael, Tinkerbelle and the Lost Boys take on the dreaded Captain Hook and his wicked crew in the enchanted world of Neverland. As good and bad guys do battle they sing and dance to some of the most memorable songs in musical theatre history including I’m Flying, Pirate Song, I Won’t Grow Up, I’ve Got to Crow and many more. Peter Pan the Musical is based on the play by James M. Barrie and includes a score with lyrics by Carolyn Leigh and music by Mark Charlap. Additional music is provided by Betty Comden, Adolf Green and Jules Styne.
ry
13 - 23,
20
1
w w w. a s f. n e t | 8 0 0 . 8 4 1 . 4 2 7 3 twitter.com/alabamashakes
facebook.com/alabamashakes
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Retired with Something To Do! Meet This Month’s Cover Profile:
Stan Tew
For Stan Tew, an active life is a quality life. That’s what we discovered when we went and spent some time with Stan at one of his favorite hang outs...his hanger at the Wetumpka Airport. As we all get a little older, the idea of retirement becomes more appealing. Now that Stan’s retired, we asked him to reveal some of his life experiences along with some of his wisdom. Hope you enjoy getting to know Stan, we did.
BOOM!: I understand you’re from Montgomery, would you share a little of your growing up with us? Stan: I moved to Montgomery at age 4 so I have 60 years experience here. I attended Harrison Elementary while the “Bypass” was being constructed. What a muddy mess! There were days when the red mud was so thick on the tires that I couldn’t pedal the bicycle enough to get to school so I would leave it and walk the rest of the way and retrieve the bike on the way home. BOOM!: What was it like growing up in Montgomery during a time of racial tensions and relations? Stan: I graduated from Lanier High School in 1965 and that was the year there was a black student for the first time. Now, in retrospect, I am ashamed of my actions toward her (as I recall). The white students were far less than kind. I was under the control of my parents to the extent that I was
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not allowed to go downtown when the March to Montgomery arrived on Dexter Avenue. In the 40+ years since then I have changed my attitudes and overcome prejudices. I graduated from Troy State University in 1970 where I was a founding member of Lambda Zeta chapter of Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity. Of course the Viet Nam war was a big topic then. But since I had nephritis at age 16 I was classified 4F and not concerned about the draft. However I had friends that served in that conflict. Over the years I have changed some of my opinions about our involvement there but I still question it. BOOM!: You seem to have an adventurous spirit, from motorcycle racing, cave exploring, to building and flying your own airplane, can you share your philosophy about having an adventurous spirit with us? Stan: I have always been adventurous
so motorcycle racing, cave exploring and airplane flying have always appealed to me. One of the good things my parents did was provide me with Lincoln Logs and Erector Set. I’m talking about the “real” ones that were purchased about 1955. There was a box of parts and a photograph of an item. The builder had to figure out how to put it together and what the other side looked like. I learned so much form those two toys. I firmly believe that I would never have been able to construct an airplane in my garage without that early training. BOOM!: As a cave explorer, what’s it like to experience real darkness and tiny passageways? Stan: I started cave exploring in the early 1970’s at the invitation of a friend who told me to wear my motorcycle helmet. “What do I need a motorcycle helmet for?” I kept asking myself. About one minute into the cave I found out why. I now have a real “caving” helmet and it is very scratched and gouged on top – instead of my head. I have been known to take a group into a cave and stop somewhere precarious along the way. I have a couple of favorite spots. One is on the point of a hill with deep drop-offs on each side. The other is next to a very large hole in the floor and I have the folks sitting around close to the edge. We turn out all lights to experience total darkness. Many come into the cave saying that they will be able to see their hand in front of their face. While in the dark I
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
tell them to try. Most become believers but some say they can see it. I then tell them to look at the person’s hand next to them and tell me which way it’s pointed. They become believers at that point. I ask them how many could get out of the cave from the spot where we’re sitting without a light, remembering the precarious position I have placed them in. That’s when I tell them that life without Jesus in it is just like being here without a light. There is no way to get yourself out. BOOM!: I understand both you and your wife Carol are retired, Carol volunteers in the community, but you decided to build an airplane, not on every retiree’s bucket list. What was that experience like? Stan: I built my new airplane N29TD in my half of the 2-car garage at my home. When I started it in July 2004 I had an airplane that I could fly. So there were afternoons when I could have been at home building that I was out flying – so progress was slower than it could have been. However in September of 2008 I landed my plane in the trees due to engine stoppage due to debris in the fuel. It was really a non-event and I walked away without a bruise or scratch. I went flying with a friend the very next day, less tan 24 hours after the crash. It was wonderful. You have to take control of your fears or they will put you on the sofa forever. Anyway, progress on the new plane was accelerated greatly after that. I flew it for the 1st time on October 18, 2010. Friday the 22nd I flew it to the South Eastern Regional Fly In (SERFI) where I was awarded 1st place in the
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
category Custom Tube and Fabric. It is really a great feeling of accomplishment to be flying in a machine that you built yourself and then to have that effort recognized by other builders is very rewarding. BOOM!: You showed me your colostomy bag and it seems that would interfere with your active lifestyle in some way. Does it interfere and how long have you worn it? Stan: I have been wearing an ileostomy appliance since my entire large intestine was removed in July of 1996. I was afflicted with a perfectly horrible disease called Ulcerative Colitis. It absolutely robbed me of any and all quality of life. I was absolutely ruled by it. The surgery and subsequent appliance has restored my life to me. Even to the extent of wearing a rappelling harness to descend ropes and crawling through some really tight place in caves. It allows me to fly my plane without having to worry. Everyone who knows me on more than a cursory level knows I have it. I am not sensitive about it and very often bring up the subject. I do so hoping that I can encourage someone who is struggling with similar difficulties. Believe me, I have been the subject of many jokes about it and I laugh just as much and as loudly as they do. I have fun with it. BOOM!: Why are you so obsessed with the number 2? Stan: When people read text their mind forms the words as they read. Kind of a silent sound or maybe they actually lip move the words without actually voice. They can say they have a NEW car, they have only driven it a FEW times and in the morning there is Dew on the windows and they bought from a guy named TEW. But the pronunciation comes out all wrong. Most of time they say “twee”. It took my a long time to figure out why some would say “toe’. Well, we know about SEW and “T” is next to “S” so it must have the same pronunciation. So I have
always told folks “Like the number that follows 1”. After so many years of this I have an OCD about it and practically everything I have has a “2” on it. The particular one displayed on the rudder of N29TD is my favorite because it was the one that was on all the motorcycle racing number plates. BOOM!: I noticed the Asian word symbol on the side of your plane, what’s it mean? Stan: The Japanese symbol on the front side comes from my long association with Yoshukai Karate and Aikido. The symbol means “Patience”. In Japanese it is pronounced “Nin” like the 1st part of ninja. Patience is needed in many areas of life and learning karate and building airplanes are two that really demand it. BOOM!: Has retirement met your expectations? Stan: I am really enjoying retirement. I stay so busy that I wonder when did I have time for a job. But I had a life away from work then and even more so now. I believe too many people don’t have that. After retirement they vegetate on the couch and die far too young. If you have any questions for Stan about retirement or finding adventure in your life at age 64, drop him a note at stan_tew@yahoo.com We want to thank Stan and his wife Carol (thanks for the wardobe suggestion), for participating with the BOOM! team on this month’s cover. We enjoyed the discovery!
Do you know someone who would make an interesting BOOM! Cover Profile? Send an email with info to jim@riverregionboom.com r i ve r reg i o n b o o m . co m
November 2010
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Top Ten Things She Won’t Tell You... When we offered moms a chance to vent about their mothers-in-law, their response was immediate, intense and, frankly, a little insecure. “Whatever you do, maintain my anonymity,” women said over and over, as they cut loose with gripes over behavior ranging from the mildly annoying to the downright destructive. Now, we’re not suggesting that you are guilty of any of the things these moms complained about, but just FYI, here’s a roundup of some of the things that OTHER grandmothers do.
1. Sorry, I’m nothing like you. But just because I’m nothing like you doesn’t mean I don’t respect the heck out of you. If you don’t believe me, consider this the ultimate compliment _ I married your son knowing full well that, as the saying goes, “you marry the whole family.” 2. Passive aggressive is still aggressive. That story you love to tell about the homemade dinners your son came home to as a child always seems perfectly timed to coincide with my bringing out a store-bought dessert. Oh, and that can of Bar Keepers Friend you gifted me for Christmas? I got the hint. Very subtle.
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3. I don’t HAVE to pick up after everyone. You know how you always say you didn’t spoil your son growing up? You’re wrong. My housekeeping skills may not be up to your standards, but I know there’s at least one thing that I do differently that I’m handling right _ teaching my kids to clean up after themselves.
4. Let’s stop standing on ceremony. I know it bothered you that I didn’t send you a thank-you note for hosting my parents at your home, but I wasn’t being a rude ingrate. It’s just that I had started to think of us all as one clan, not as each other’s house guests.
5. Mi casa is not your casa. So stop showing up uninvited, unannounced and unable to understand that I like my kitchen organized the way it is. 6. Yes, I am good enough for him. It’s sweet that you still think your son is perfect, as long as you also understand that, despite what you may think, I’m also perfect for him. 7. Baby-sit much? Oh, you really think so?
By Emily Abedon
You love to tell your friends how much you enjoy spending time with your grandkids, but when I ask you to help me out and watch them, you act like I have inconvenienced you _ yet again. I’m not suggesting you give up your busy life. On the other hand, the children won’t be this little for long _ you of all people should realize that.
8. Money can’t buy you love At birthdays and holidays, please ask us for some gift ideas and limits. And if you really think the kids need the latest and greatest video game system, fine _ as long as you keep it at your house. 9. Parenting advice? Thanks, but no thanks. If I’m looking for tips, I’ve got plenty of resources _ including friends, my pediatrician and most important, your son. Unless we specifically ask for your opinion, let the two of us figure it out. We want to raise the kids our own way _ mistakes and all.
10. Thank you! Thank you for raising such a decent, responsible, kind man ... but why couldn’t you have given him your great sense of style? Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Find Hope Make a differenCe reDiscover your faiTh wiTh The frazer family. Dr. Tim Thompson, senior minisTer TradiTional & ConTemporary Worship 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00
m a i n C a m p u s : 6 0 0 0 aT l a n Ta h i g h Way 3 3 4 . 2 7 2 . 8 6 2 2 asbury Campus: 4540 narroW lane road 334-281-8971 The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
November 2010 BOOM! 15 www.frazerumc.org | facebook.com/frazerumc r i ve r reg i o n b o o m . co m
Baby Boomers and Woodstockers ... you’re wanted by The Museum
By Diane W. Stoneback
B
aby boomers and Woodstockers ... you’re wanted by The Museum at Bethel Woods.
If you attended the 1969 Woodstock Festival or came of age during the 1960s, you can help the museum tell even more of the story about the legendary event and a turbulent decade. Located where Woodstock happened _ in rural Sullivan County, N.Y. _ the museum is making several new attempts to draw attention to its collection and get “veterans” of the Sixties to add more to it.
A recently opened exhibition, Collecting Woodstock: Recent Museum Acquisitions, will run through Jan. 2, 2011. It contains festival artifacts, images from five photographers and a new video compilation of rare Woodstock footage. Anyone who attended Woodstock (or tried to attend) as well as volunteers and other people who participated in some way are asked to join the Woodstock alumni registry. Finally, 1960s enthusiasts who have artifacts from the festival of the decade are being asked to consider donating them to the museum. The museum has attracted 60,000
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visitors a year since opening in 2008. About 450,000 young people made their way to this same location for Woodstock, which was advertised as “three days of music and peace.” “We’re pretty happy with our attendance, since we’re in a pretty remote location,” says Wade Lawrence, the museum’s director. “We not only want to have great exhibits. We also want to become a research center for those studying the Sixties.
“Young people can get a sense of what their parents and grandparents went through and accomplished and realize they, too, should take part in the political process and debates rising from it.” Visiting the museum will give “boomers a chance to remember the days of their youth, recall the good times, and remind them that they have helped change the world,” Lawrence says. Some of the most exciting additions in the Collecting Woodstock exhibition? A 38-minute video that shows performances that weren’t included in other Woodstock movies or documentaries, as well as a clip of a home movie featuring three young women attending the event. “Before leaving home, they created a personal flag to fly over their campsite, so they could find it. We have the movie showing the flag flying over
their campsite and their flag. It’s a very personal story and it’s one of my personal favorites,” Lawrence says.
Another thrill for him is having the small notebook Kevin Marvell used for a journal. “Kevin sat 10 rows back from the stage and didn’t miss a single performance. Every time a band came on, he recorded the name, the songs they sang and added his comments about their performance. It answers questions about the order of the performances that have been debated for 40 years.”
Among other items in the exhibit: Woodstock festival photographs _ including one of participants on the Watch Tower, taken by 18-year-old Doug Lenier, who had grabbed his girlfriend and his Nikon for the trip to Woodstock; a James Shelly photo showing an umbrella-holding Woodstocker; and another weather-related Woodstock photo by Richard Gordon showing his muddy feet.
Other items include armbands (“red rags”) worn by members of the Hog Farm Commune who worked or volunteered at the festival; a security guard T-shirt; a rare and psychedelic Woodstock poster created by David Byrd; and a milk crate, creamery hat, bottle cap and syrup pitcher from the dairy farm owned by Max Yasgur, who rented his fields to Woodstock promoters after they decided to move the concert from its original location. “We’d like all 450,000 attendees to go to our alumni register,” Lawrence says. His realistic goal is for 100,000 registrants who’ll provide information about their ages, level of education, where they came from, what days and groups they saw, why they were there, their most memorable Woodstock experience, their favorite act and Woodstock’s impact on their lives. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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The Wine Taste
Serving Wine with Confidence
at Your Holiday Get Together by Scotty Scott,
A
s we enter the home stretch of 2010, the season for holiday entertaining is looming large before us. The list seems endless: football parties; Thanksgiving; Christmas parties for work, friends, Church; New Years Eve…. Whew! It’s the time of year to relax with good friends and family and indulge in some great food and, of course, lots of good wine! Interest in wine has been on the increase in the U.S. for several years, and due to the increased demand, the market is awash in wines from all over the globe. With a veritable ocean of wine to choose from, the question becomes “how do I choose”? Over the course of the next few paragraphs, we’ll delve into such things as wine selection, food pairings and how to store and serve wine. So…you’ve got a crowd coming over; the food has been planned, and now it’s time to start thinking about the wine. The first thing you should probably tackle is the quantity needed. What we usually do at the store is take the number of people attending and drop the number by a third if there will be liquor and beer served. So for a 30 person party, we’ll use 20 as our number. Now the trick is to estimate how many glasses of wine on average each person will drink. Assuming I’m not in the group (grin!), a good number to use is 2.5 glasses per person. Some may drink more, some less, but we’ve found this to be fairly accurate. If
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scotty @ tedthewineguy.com
want to pour good wine. Can you help you know that the party will go on for a me?” longer time, or if it is a short party, you can adjust the 2.5 number up or down. I look at which wines to select in a couple So if our hypothetical 20 people drink of different ways. Sometimes, if a group their allocated 2.5 glasses of wine, you is large and tastes will be diverse, I try to will serve 50 glasses of wine. A regular pick wines that have a record as crowdsize bottle of wine contains 25 ounces of pleasers. These are wines that are generwine, or 5 glasses, assuming a 5 ounce ally light-bodied for white wines and pour. You would need 10 bottles of light-to-medium-bodied for red wines. wine to pour the 50 glasses. To ensure Nothing enough wine too harsh is on hand, “I’m throwing a party at my house next weekend and I need or tannic, wine for X-number of people. I don’t want to spend a fortune I would buy or with but I want to pour good wine. Can you help me?” a case (12 too much bottles) of bite. Examples of these wines would be wine, particularly if running out of wine lighter-bodied Cabernet, Malbec, Pinot isn’t an attractive option. Noir, Beaujolais or Barbera. Red blends based on Zinfandel also tend to work Next question: Red or White and how very well. Good white wine choices much of either one? To best answer that would include the good, old reliable Pinot question requires a bit of knowledge Grigio, California Sauvignon Blanc (New about your guest list, but my experiZealand is often times too tart for many ence has shown red to outsell white. A folks), Viognier or Chenin Blanc. Any of 60/40 split in favor of red is a pretty good these choices can be had in a variety of guess. But again, knowing your group price points. is the key to getting this right. If more men are attending, you might skew that If the host of the party knows what number up to 70/30 red to white. In particular types of wine the attendees our theoretical case, you would do 7 or like, I like to make sure that we cover 8 reds. those bases for them. A couple bottles of this or that can be fun for everyone, The next question is of course what paras people will get to sample wines they ticular wines to choose. Every week at might not otherwise try. the store we get the same question and it’s usually phrased this way: “I’m throwMany people also like to pair wines with ing a party at my house next weekend their meal. Just for fun, here are some and I need wine for X-number of people. suggested pairings for a few of my favorI don’t want to spend a fortune but I ite dishes: The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
•
Cedar Plank Salmon with Brown Sugar and Bourbon sauce: Pinot Noir or Blanc de Noir Champagne.
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Grilled Pork Tenderloin: Cotes du Rhone (red) or Oregon Pinot Gris.
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Pan Seared Scallops: Torrontes, Semillon, Viognier or Chenin Blanc.
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Roast Chicken with Cream Sauce: California Chardonnay or Cru Beaujolais.
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Braised Lamb Shanks: Grenache, Chateauneuf du Pape, or Cote du Rhone Blanc. Mushroom Risotto: Oregon Pinot Noir or Pouilly-Fuisse.
And for our traditional southern Thanksgiving table of turkey or ham, seasonal vegetables, etc., I like to suggest Pinot Noir, Malbec, Shiraz or Cotes du Rhone for reds. For whites, I like Pinot Gris, Viognier, Chenin Blanc. Rose’ wines also do a great job with Turkey.
more rounded, fatter bowl. For white wines, use the same general shape but with a slightly smaller bowl. And, as you probably know, a tall slender glass shows Champagne bubbles off to best effect. I hope you now find yourself armed with some useful information about entertaining with wine. If not, feel free to give me a call…I am at your service.
Suggested Red Wines: Definitive Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir Stoller Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Girardin Santenay Ballentine Petite Sirah Keenan Spring Mountain Cabernet
Suggested White and Rose’ Wines: Maysara Pinot Noir Rose’ J Pinot Gris
Finally, let’s talk about serving the wine. Red wines in general should be served at about 65 degrees. You can drop a bottle of red in an ice water bath for about 5 minutes to achieve the correct serving temperature, or pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. White wines should be chilled down to 45 to 50 degrees. The old adage about serving red wines at room temperature is true, but they’re talking about European room temperature prior to central heating..in other words, cooler than most American homes. And we all have a tendency to serve our white wines too cold. Resist the urge to ice your white wine down like beer and you’ll be pleasantly surprised how much better it tastes!
Hopler Gruner Veltliner
As for glassware, there are almost as many different wine glasses as there are wines. However, there are really just four basic “shapes” of glasses that you really need. For red wine, pick a glass that has a fairly generous bowl that tapers toward the top. Pinot Noir, however, is best from a glass with a
Scotty Scott is a local wine consultant and co-owner of Ted “The Wine Guy” & Co. He welcomes your wine questions at scotty @ tedthewineguy.com
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Honig Sauvignon Blanc White Oak Chardonnay
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Grandparents Get Ready...
Best Toys for the Holidays
Toys! More Toys! And More Toys! That’s the way some families experience Christmas. Grandparents are either told what to buy for the grandkids or they take a bold move and decide what’s best for the grandkids. The following is a list of the best toys by age group for your grandkids. It’s a place to start and learn what’s happening in the toy world. Hopefully, you can purchase many of these items from stores located here in the River Region to give us all an economic boost. Pace yourself!
Best Baby Toys for Little Ones Age Newborn-2 1. Baby Einstein’s Takealong Tunes
The first on the list of the top 5 baby toys this year is the Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes. This particular toy has topped the list for a couple of years now, providing delightful versions of classic music for babies on the go. List Price: $9.99
2. Baby Einstein Bendy Ball
The Bendy Ball from Baby Einstein Toys comes in next on the list of the top five best baby toys this year. This baby toy is made of soft, bendable plastic with openings to make it easy for babies to grab and roll. It is also bright and colorful, with the cute “Baby Einstein” caterpillar around it. List Price: $6.99
3. Fisher Price Brilliant Basics Baby’s First Blocks
For babies 6-36 months old Fisher Price Brilliant Basics Baby’s First Blocks are next on the list of the top 5 baby toys 2010-2011. These blocks are fascinating to babies, with the bright bold colors, and fun shapes to fit the blocks through. This is another baby toy that has topped the list for a couple of years, and is one of the most loved toys for little ones ever. List Price: $12.99
4. Yookidoo Flow N Fill Spout
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For babies 9 months and up. The Yookidoo Flow ‘N’ Fill Spout is a new addition to the best baby toys 2010-2011, and a wonderful addition it is. This is a toy that is attached to the side of a tub, with November 2010
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water coming up through the bottom creating a little shower, floating characters and more. Lots of entertainment for very little ones, to make bath time more fun. List Price: $18.99
5. Leap Frog Learn and Groove Musical Table
For babies and toddlers 3 to 36 months old The LeapFrog Learn and Groove Musical Tablel has been a much loved toy for babies and toddlers for a few years now. This table has so many features that it would be difficult to name them all, but generally this is a table that “grows” with babies by providing different levels of learning, each level just as entertaining as another. It also adjusts in height so it can be played with by small babies with it flat on the floor or for older babies and toddlers it can be changed into a table. List Price: $44.99
Top 5 Toys for Kids Age 2 to 4 1. Sing-a-Ma-Jigs
Recommended for kids 3 to 6 years of age First on the list of the top 5 toys for kids age 2-4 this year are some of the hottest selling toys in general - Sing-a-MaJigs. These are adorable toys who sing and move their mouths - each of them singing in harmony with each other, so they are often purchased in a set. Very cute. =) List Price: $14.99
2. Lil Zoomers Spinnin Sounds Speedway
Recommended for kids 6 months to 5 years of age. Next on the list of the top 5 toys for kids 2, 3 and 4 years of age is the Lil Zoom-
ers Spinnin’ Sounds Speedway. This is an excellent “first racetrack” for little ones, with the ability to “race” little cars until they move onto the exit ramp. Lights, sounds, and just about anything that a little one would love. List Price: $29.99
3. Dance Star Mickey
Recommended for kids 18 months to 6 years of age. Here is another one of the hottest toys of the year period. Dance Star Mickey can walk, talk and dance - and with multiple songs, there are multiple dances to go along with them. List Price: $69.99
4. My Pillow Pets
Recommended for kids 3 years of age and up. My Pillow Pets are a delightful additon to the top 5 toys for kids age 2-4 this year. These are pillows that with a few fastenings of velcro change into a cuddly stuffed animal and back again. A great gift for a child of just about any age. List Price: $24.99 My Pillow Pets Miss Lady Bug 18”, My Pillow Pets Dolphin 18”, My Pillow Pets Dog 18”, My Pillow Pets Penguin 18”
5. Playskool Alphie
Recommended for kids 3 years old and up Playskool Alphie comes in next on the list of the top 5 toys for kids age 2-4 years, specifically recommended for kids age 3 and up. This is a rather goofy looking robot with learning games galore - lots of fun combined with learning. List Price: $44.99 The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Top 5 Toys for Kids Age 5 to 7 1. Sing a Ma Jigs
For kids 3-6 years of age. This year, Sing a Ma Jigs are not only hot sellers in the top 5 toys for kids age 5 to 7, they are some of the hottest selling toys for kids any age period. These are adorable singing stuffed creatures that harmonize with each other and are quite amusing with their mouths changing in shape when they sing.List Price: $14.99
2. LeapFrog Leapster Explorer System
For kids 4-9 years old Here is the latest and greatest in kids electronics technology coming in next on the list of the best toys for kids 5 to 7 years of age - LeapFrog Leapster Explorer Learning System. This is much more than a gaming system for kids, having the capability of more than 40 games overall and access to an expanded “world” online. List Price: $69.99
3. Razor Rip Rider 360 Ride On Toy
For kids 5 years of age and up. The Razor Rip Rider 360 comes in next on the list of the top 5 toys for kids 5-7 2010-2011. This is a unique ride-on toy with a “drifting” sort of a motion - lots of fun for kids to ride on outdoors. List Price: $129.99
4. My Pillow Pets for Kids
For kids 3 years of age and up A fun idea in a “multitasking” toy - My Pillow Pets for Kids. These are plush animal pets that double as pillows simply by undoing velcro straps, then back again to a stuffed pet. (They are extremely soft and cuddly too!) List Price: $24.99
5. Fisher Price iXL Learning System
For kids 3-6 years old. Another electronics learning system hits the list of the top 5 toys for kids 5-7 years of age - the Fisher Price iXL. This gadget has 6 different ways to learn and play, with an “open book” design and touch screen that is easy to use. List Price: $79.99 The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Top 5 Toys for Kids Age 8 to 11 1. LEGO Hogwarts Game
For kids 6-14 years of age. The LEGO Hogwarts Game comes in first on the list of the top 5 toys for kids age 8-11 for 2010. This is an extremely entertaining game for two to four players, with the familiar Hogwarts castle to carry out various strategies. List Price: $29.99
2. Alex Toys Friends 4 Ever Bracelet Making Kit
For kids 8 to 12 years of age. Alex Toys Friends 4 Ever Bracelet Making Kit comes in next on the list of the top 5 best toys for kids 8-11 years. This is a great way for young ladies to create their own artistic bracelets, wear them or trade them with friends. List Price: $27.00
3. Nerf N-Strike Stampede ECS Blaster
For kids 8 years of age and up. The next on the list of the top 5 toys for kids age 8-11 is the Nerf N-Strike Stampede ECS Blaster. This is a recent top favorite among the boys this year, with more features than ever compared to earlier versions in the Nerf Blasters lineup. List Price: $59.99
4. Snap Circuits Jr. SC-100
Snap Circuits Jr. comes in next on the list of the best toys for kids age 8-11 this year, and has been around for a couple of years now and is becoming increasingly popular. This is an extremely entertaining way for kids to learn hands-on about electronics and circuitry. 100 different experiments and gadgets can be built.List Price: $29.99
5. Razor A Kick Scooter
Next on the list of the top 5 toys for kids age 8-11 is the Razor A Kick Scooter. Even though this particular choice is good for kids as young as around 5 years, it remains the most popular scooter from Razor for kids into teen years, excellent gift for either boys or girls. List Price: $59.99
Top 5 Toys for Kids Age 12 to 15 1. Razor A Kick Scooter
The original from Razor tops the list of the top 5 toys for kids age 12-15 2010-2011. After many new releases of scooters, the Razor A Kick is still the most looked for of them all. This scooter is a great performer, for kids and teens up to 143 pounds.List Price: $59.99
2. LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle
LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle Set comes in next on the list of the top 5 toys for 12-15 year olds this year. This is one of many Harry Potter sets, and continues to climb the charts of the most popular toys for LEGO and Harry Potter fans of many ages. List Price: $129.99
3. Apple iPod Touch 4th Generation Although it might be argued whether or not the Apple iPod Touch - 4th Generation would be considered a “toy,” it remains that this is an item that consistently comes up as a favorite for kids in the 1215 year age range. It is available in a few different memory versions and has become a “must have” for many tweens and teens alike.List Price: $229.00
4. Just Dance 2 for Wii
Next on the list of the top 5 toys for kids age 12-15 is a followup to the first “Just Dance” - Just Dance 2 for Wii. This “game” for Wii includes choreographed professional dance moves from more than 40 hot musical tracks. List Price: $39.99
5. Ripstik “G” Caster Board
The Ripstik “G” Caster Board comes in next on the list of the top 5 toys for kids age 12-15 this year. This is a sort of “hybrid” of a skateboard and snowboard with some features that make it challenging - and a real blast for kids. List Price: $149.99 r i ve r reg i o n b o o m . co m
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Healthy Hearing
by Dr. Bettie Borton Au.D. bchampion1@aol.com
Tinnitus….what IS that ringing in my ears?? Tinnitus is the term for the perception of sound when no external sound is present. It is often referred to as “ringing in the ears,” although people Dr. Bettie Borton Au. D. describe it as hissing, roaring, whistling, chirping, or clicking. Tinnitus can be intermittent or constant, and can range from very soft to extremely loud. If you suffer with this condition, you’re not alone. According to the American Tinnitus Association (ATA) it is estimated that over 50 million Americans experience tinnitus to some degree. Of these, about 12 million have severe enough tinnitus to seek medical attention.
Are you at risk? Knowing the causes of tinnitus puts you in a better position to avoid the problem, and since there’s no known cure for this condition, avoiding the problem altogether if you can is certainly the best option. Interestingly, no one knows what causes tinnitus, but there are several likely factors which may create or worsen this problem: noise exposure, wax build-up in the ear canal, certain medications, ear or sinus infections, age-related hearing loss, ear diseases and disorders, jaw misalignment, cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure, certain types of tumors, thyroid disorders, head and neck trauma and many others. And now new research reveals more of us may experience tinnitus due to cell phone use. Sure you love your cell. How did we ever get along without them? But a report that appeared in the British Medical Journal indicates that cell phone use – especially extended cell phone use – may now be added to the list of culprits for causing or increasing tinnitus. Since the incidence of tinnitus is increasing, researchers are suspicious that this is due, at least in part, to our increased cell phone use. Of the factors noted above, according
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to the ATA, exposure to loud noises and hearing loss are the most common causes of tinnitus. Noise exposure and hearing loss may cause the brain to rewire itself. In other words, that ringing in your ears may be a brain thing, not an ear thing, though research is far from conclusive. However, research suggests that protecting your hearing from loud noise may be increasingly important. Even if your hearing is not permanently affected by noise exposure, the way your brain processes sound may be changed which could result in tinnitus. You might want to consider that the next time you plug in your MP3 ear buds. The problem stemming from cell phone use may be due to a potential link between mobile phones and the auditory pathway, which directly absorbs a considerable amount of energy emitted by the device. In other words, the wireless connectivity required for cell phone use might actually damage the hearing mechanism, making a bad situation worse. Some who experience tinnitus only hear the ringing when they’re in a quiet environment, and are less aware of it as their surroundings get noisier and “mask” the tinnitus. But when things get quiet, tinnitus returns – often at night, making sleep difficult. Unfortunately there are millions that hear their tinnitus at all times, no matter what the level of background noise in their environment.
No one should ever ignore persistent tinnitus. Not only is every individual entitled to a chance to regain his or her quality of life, but in rare cases tinnitus also can be a symptom of a more serious health issue that could demand medical intervention. What’s more, nearly everyone with tinnitus has hearing loss as well. While nothing will cure that incessant ringing or roaring in the ears, there are options to treat the symptoms, lessening the negative impact tinnitus has on quality of life. Treating hearing loss, either by medical management, if indicated, or with hear-
ing aids, or sound therapy with special maskers, may offer relief of tinnitus. Other new and effective tinnitus treatments are also available, including use of the supplement NAC.
If you have tinnitus, a comprehensive hearing evaluation by an audiologist is recommended. While not a cure for tinnitus, hearing aids are the most commonly used treatment for problematic tinnitus. They may be able to help by:
• Improving communication and reducing stress, which makes it easier to cope with the condition. • Amplifying background sounds, which can make tinnitus seem less loud and prominent. A new type of hearing aid called an “open fit” may be particularly useful in alleviating tinnitus. The open fit aid can reduce the effects of the tinnitus ringing sensation while still allowing sounds from the outside to pass into the ear.
To learn more, visit doctorshearingclinic. com or call for an evaluation at (334) 396-1635. Author’s note: Founded in 1973, The Better Hearing Institute (BHI) conducts research and engages in hearing health education with the goal of helping people with hearing loss to benefit from proper treatment.
HEARING IMPAIRED SUPPORT GROUP
The group will meet the second Thurs. of each month at First Methodist Church, 4-6 PM, refreshments and speakers will be provided.
Dr. Bettie B. Borton is a licensed audiologist in Alabama, was the first board certified audiologist in Montgomery, and recently served as National Chair of the American Board of Audiology. She and her husband, Dr. Tom Borton, are the only audiologists with ABA certification in the Montgomery area.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
e x p e r i e n c e a s i m p l e ta l e o f
Christmas past, f e at u r i n g
m u s i c f r o m t r a d i t i o n a l c e lt i c t o c o n t e m p o r a ry , b r i n g i n g a timeless message of
forgiveness and hope.
for more Frazer Christmas events visit us online at FRAZERUMC.org
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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November 2010 2010
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By Karen Garloch
Your Health
Get Vaccines Beyond that Flu Shot Every parent knows children must be immunized against all sorts of diseases _ measles, mumps, chickenpox _ before starting school. And we’re all reminded to get flu vaccinations every fall.
But how many of us know what other vaccines are recommended for adults? Maybe you know you’re supposed to get a tetanus booster shot every 10 years. How many of us wait until
we step on a nail or get some other puncture wound that could result in infection?
That’s what happened recently to a colleague while visiting her daughter in California. She fell and cut her hand hiking in Yosemite. The doctor asked her when she’d last had a tetanus shot, and of course, she had no idea. So he gave her one. Her shot also included the vaccine against pertussis, an illness most of us know as whooping cough. She thought she got the combination vaccine because of recent pertussis outbreaks in California. That wasn’t the only reason. For many years, when adults get a tetanus booster, they’ve been getting a “Td” vaccine to protect against tetanus and diptheria.
In recent years, health officials recommended a new triple-vaccine called the “Tdap,” for tetanus, diptheria, and acellular pertussis vaccines. This came about because adults were found to be losing immunity to pertussis. And that was contributing to periodic outbreaks that are especially threatening to newborns.
“They cough to the point that they essentially run out of air,” said Dr. Tony Moody, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill School of Medicine. “They literally turn blue. Then they take in a huge breath. That creates that ‘whoop’ sound.” The viral culprit is Bordetella pertussis. “Tuss is the Latin root for cough (hence, Robitussin),” Moody wrote in an e-mail. In teens and adults, pertussis is less serious, more like a nagging cough.
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Here’s the problem. Every time Moody diagnoses a baby with whooping cough, he said he finds a connection to an adult with a persistent cough.
Vaccinating adults is one way of protecting babies, who don’t get their first pertussis shots until 2 months, with follow-ups at 4 and 6 months.
“They’re not fully protected” until after the third dose, said Dr. Stephen Keener, medical director of the Mecklenburg County Health Department. Keener said it’s important for adults to be vaccinated.
The shingles vaccine is recommended for adults 60 and older to protect against a painful recurrence of chickenpox virus. A vaccine against human papillomavirus is recommended for girls and women, ages 9 to 26, to prevent cervical and vaginal cancer.
None of these vaccines is more important than the flu vaccine, Keener said, because flu kills more people every year than any other vaccine-preventable disease in adults.
Enter Today!
IRON BOWL Game Day PACKAGE CONTEST
Autauga County Family Support Center
contest is a fundraiser for the Family Sup-
port Center and other members of the Ala-
bama Network of Family Resource Centers. Contest participants make a $10 donation
to the Family Support Center, with each $10 gift, the donor is entered into a drawing
on November 18. The winner receives two
prime tickets to the Alabama-Auburn game in Tuscaloosa on November 26, plus $100 spending money!
Entry forms available at FSC, 113 W. Main
St., Prattville next to City Hall. For more information, call 334-361-4703 or 334-5585941 email darrue.fank@acfsc.org.
Vaccines aren’t perfect, but the diseases they prevent can cause a lot of harm, health officials say. Because many of those illnesses are less common now, that is forgotten. “The truth of it is,” Moody said, “vaccines are kind of a victim of their own success.”
For information about other vaccines for adults, go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website, www.cdc.gov.
Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
The Boomer Market is Too Big to Ignore, How Will You Seize the Opportunity? Call 324.3472 or email jim@riverregionboom.com to see if you qualify.
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Games to Play While You Wait
FOR WAITING AROUND
Sitting in traffic or standing in line, these simple games will help pass the time.
Entertain their young minds with these games they can play anywhere at any time.
FOR THE CAR
Long drives or stop-and-go traffic may test your grandchildren’s patience in the car. Engage the kids in these fun games and make time fly. WAVING COMPETITION Here’s a silly, social way to beat the traffic blues. Challenge the kids to find out who can get the passengers in other cars to wave back to them. They’ll smile sweetly, make funny faces, gesture frantically, and the best part is they don’t have to make any noise doing it. Of course, there are sure to be giggles and cheers after each returned wave.
HIGHWAY ALPHABET GAME Play this game together as a team. When you start your journey, the team is looking for a word beginning with the letter A. Have the kids scan billboards, road signs, bumper stickers, and storefronts to find the word. After you find a word beginning with A, move on to the letter B, and continue through the alphabet. The longer it takes to get to Z, the fewer times you’ll hear “Are we there yet?”
GHOST Form a chain of letters to create a word in this thinking game for kids who like spelling. Players take turns adding letters. For example, the first player might say, “T”; the second player could say “I.” Play continues with each person adding one letter to the chain. Tell the backseat gang to avoid being the person who adds the last letter and forms a word. The player who completes a word loses the round. However, players
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By Jennifer Ching must have a word in mind as they add a letter; other players can challenge them if they think there is no word that begins with the current chain. Read the full rules: www.grandparents.com/gp/ content/activitiesandevents/games/ article/ghost.html.
SING TOGETHER Kids love to sing, and the car is a great place to take advantage of this because you don’t have to worry about disturbing anyone. Slip in a CD of songs they know by heart and sing along, or belt out a fun song like “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” and give each one a chance to pick an animal to sing about when the line comes up,” ... and on this farm he had a ____ ...”
I’M GOING ON A PICNIC The beauty of this game is that there are so many ways to play it. The first player says the phrase, “I’m going on a picnic and I am bringing ______.” The next player repeats what the first person is bringing and adds an item beginning with the next letter of the alphabet. Players are out when they miss naming an item in the picnic basket. A fun way to play is for the originating player to establish a rule about what other players can bring to the picnic _ without telling the others. The originating player says the phrase with an example of an item that meets the rule. To figure out the rule, the other players ask if they can bring items to the picnic. They might say, “Can I bring a zebra to the picnic?” and the first player says yes or no, based on the secret rule. Examples of picnic rules are: items that begin with the letter B, round items, items that have two syllables, items that end in vowels, items that begin with the same letter as the player’s first name, and anything else you can think of. 20 QUESTIONS Pass the time playing this classic game; its simplicity and adaptability make it appeal to almost any group. One player thinks of a person, place or thing that
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all the players know. The remaining players ask questions to discover what the first player is thinking. The beginning player must answer all questions with yes or no. For example: “Does she have blonde hair?” or “Is it bigger than a toaster?” Players have 20 questions to guess correctly or the first player successfully stumps them.
about this creature. Hilarity may ensue.
I SPY The phrase “I spy with my little eye, something ___” was coined in the early 20th century, and the game has become widely popular, even generating riddle books. Provide an adjective about what you see and watch as the other players attempt to find it. Try to make the clue as murky as possible in order to challenge your opponents.
HANGMAN This classic game of wordplay lets your grandchildren wield the power of the pen as they think of a word or phrase, then draw lines that correspond to the number of letters in the word(s), as well as an empty gallows frame. The other players try to guess what the word is, one letter at a time. If they guess a wrong letter, the first player draws a body part in the gallows. Limb by limb, the victim is constructed with each incorrect guess. Adjust the level of difficulty to suit any age.
TWO TRUTHS AND ONE LIE Grandkids will delight in discovering tidbits about grandma or grandpa’s past in this simple guessing game. As the name denotes, players take turns telling two truths and one lie, while the other players try to distinguish the falsehood. It’s a great way to share stories from your life with your grandchildren, and they may surprise you by revealing unexpected facts about their personalities and interests.
FOR SITTING PATIENTLY
Whether you are waiting for food at a restaurant or sitting in a doctor’s office, all you need is a pen and a sheet of scrap paper to have fun with these activities.
EXQUISITE CORPSE It’s impossible to predict what sorts of wacky creatures you’ll end up with in this zany game of mixing and matching. Three players are needed for this game. Take a sheet of paper and fold it into thirds. Each person picks a panel. The first person draws the head of an animal or person on the uppermost panel, the second draws a torso, and the last draws the hindquarters. After the last person has finished drawing, unfold the panels and discover your collective creation. You can even make up a story The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
DOTS (CAPTURE THE SQUARES) This game of strategy will keep your grandchildren occupied and thinking. The object of the game is for them to connect dots to get as many squares as possible and put their initials in each square they complete. Draw a grid of dots, 10 by 10 is a good size, spacing dots a half inch apart. Take turns drawing either a vertical or horizontal line between dots. Watch as the grid becomes one of lines, then squares. The person who has just completed a square gets to draw again. When all the dots have become squares, count the initialed boxes. Whoever has the most is the winner. Read the full rules: www.grandparents.com/gp/content/ activitiesandevents/games/article/ dots.html
REMEMBER WHAT YOU SEE Participants pit their observation skills against one another in this memory game. Choose a direction in which the kids should stare for 30 seconds, then have them turn around and write a list of the names of everything they remember seeing in that direction, the more detailed the better. The player with the longest list wins. Strangers may wonder at the furious scribbling going on, but tell the kids to pay them no attention as they need to focus intently to win. (c) 2010, Grandparents.com
Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
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NOVEMBER 2010
{12 Things} for active boomers and beyond
PIKE ROAD
Pike Road Arts & Crafts Fair Saturday, November 6th, 9 am - 4 pm
Marks House, Pike Road, Alabama
Come for the shopping or come for the food! Delicious pulled pork BBQ sandwiches, homemade chicken salad and pimento cheese sandwiches and fried chicken will keep you from getting hungry while you shop. Enjoy homemade goodies from the Sweet Shop inside the Marks House. And don’t forget to pick up a dozen melt-in-your-mouth Mocha Cakes - Pike Road’s signature bite size sweet treat. There are also special activities for the children too – face painting, a tour of the Pike Road Fire Department’s Mobile Fire Safety House and free “make and take” crafts will be provided by Home Depot. www.pikeroadfair.org
MONTGOMERY
Capitol Sounds Band Concert and Patriotic Celebration November 11, 7 pm S.P.I.R.I.T. of Frazer presents an evening of patriotic music by the Capitol Sounds Concert Band Thursday, Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. in Wesley Hall. Capitol Sounds performs a wide variety of music, including marches, classical, patriotic, show tunes, jazz and swing, and all ages are welcome for this free concert. 334.272.8622 www.frazerumc.org
MONTGOMERY
An Evening with Sarah Jones Alabama Shakespeare Festival November 29, 7:30 pm Troy University’s Rosa Parks Museum will celebrate its 10th anniversary with a spe-
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cial performance by Tony Award winning actress and playwright Sarah Jones on Monday, Nov. 29, at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Jones will present her critically acclaimed one-woman show “An Evening with Sarah Jones” as a fundraising event to kickoff the museum’s 10th anniversary celebration. The performance will begin at 7:30 p.m. on the festival stage. Tickets for the benefit performance range from $35 to $75. For ticket information, call 1-800-841-4273 or visit ww.asf.net. Proceeds from this event support programs of the museum. 334.241.8701 www.montgomery.troy.edu/rosaparks
MONTGOMERY
Santa Arrives November 12th, Friday 7 pm He’s almost here. Get the grandkids and come to Eastdale Mall to experience Santa’s Magical Arrival on ice at The Ice Palace on Friday, Novemebr 12th at 7 pm. Santa visits and photos are November 13 – De-
cember 24, Monday – Saturday 10am – 1pm, 2 – 5pm, 6 – 9pm and Sunday 1 – 3pm, 4 – 6pm.
www.shopmalls.com
MONTGOMERY Mistletoe November13, 14
(12th is military appreciation night, present ID)
Returning to the stage classic & new “Favorite Dances of Christmas,” and “The Messiah” accompanied by the Montgomery Chorale Ensemble. Premiering “The Little Match Girl,” a story to open the heart and rekindle the Christmas spirit. 334.241.2800 www.alabamadancetheatre.com
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MONTGOMERY
Alabama Department of Archives and History November 13 The Alabama Department of Archives and History is pleased to announce the reopening of the museum and research room one Saturday per month, starting on November 13, 2010. The department will be open for researchers and museum visitors on the second Saturday of each month from 8:30 - 4:30. The museum and research room will be open on Saturday, November 13, and Saturday, December 11, 2010. Starting on January 8, 2011, special children’s activities and tours will be added to the second-Saturday service. 334.242.4435 www.archives.alabama.gov
MONTGOMERY
Lyle Lovett and His Large Band Tuesday, November 16th, 7:30 pm Lyle Lovett is an American singer-songwriter and actor. Active since 1980, he has recorded thirteen albums and released 21 singles to date, including his highest entry, the #10 chart hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, “Cowboy Man”. Lovett has won four Grammy Awards, including Best Male Country Vocal Performance and Best Country Album. It’s Not Big It’s Large was released in 2007, where it debuted and peaked at #2 on the Top Country Albums chart. A new studio album, Natural Forces, was released on October 20, 2009 by Lost Highway Records. Ticket prices are $57.50, $37.50. Call the MPAC Box Office to purchase tickets or www.ticketmaster.com 334.481.5100 www.mpaconline.org
MONTGOMERY
Peter Pan the Musical at ASF November 19 – December 24th The biggest selling show in the history of the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Peter Pan the Musical, will return in all of its high flying glory as part of ASF’s Silver Anniversary season, Nov. 19-Dec. 24. Producing Artistic Director Geoffrey The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Sherman will once again direct the spectacle. Peter Pan the Musical broke all box office records when it was produced at ASF in 2007. Tickets start at $30 and are available through the ASF box office, by visiting on line at www.asf.net or by calling 1.800.841.4273. ASF is located at 1 Festival Drive in Montgomery’s beautiful Blount Cultural Park. www.asf.net
PINE MOUNTAIN, GEORGIA
Fantasy Lights, Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, Georgia November 19-December 30 Nestled amidst wooded landscape of Callaway Gardens, Fantasy In Lights is the Southeast’s most spectacular holiday light and sound show with more than eight million twinkling lights celebrating the holiday season. This spectacular show has attracted almost two million visitors since it opened in 1992. Now in its 19th year, Fantasy In Lights has become an essential holiday tradition for many families, as much as a part of the season as caroling or attending “The Nutcracker.” Visit once and you’ll discover why. 1-800.225.5292 www.callawaygardens.com
MONTGOMERY
Jazz Jam, Museum of Fine Art Sunday, November 28, 2-4 pm Enjoy the Museum and a little jazz on a Sunday afternoon in the Museum’s Cafe M on the last Sunday of each month this fall from 2 to 4 P.M. Seating is limited to 40 people and there is no charge for this event. Cafe M will have desserts, coffee, and wine for purchase. Partnership with Alabama Roots Music Society. www.mmfa.org
MONTGOMERY
John Tesh, 2010 Christmas Tour, Montgomery Family Christmas Tuesday, November 30th, 7 pm The Baptist Health Care Foundation is pleased to announce that John Tesh will be the featured entertainer for the 2010 Montgomery Family Christmas. This
year’s event will take place at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Talented pianist and composer of popular Christian music, Tesh will begin his 2010 Christmas tour in Montgomery.. Montgomery Family Christmas benefits Baptist Hospice. Proceeds are used to provide end-of-life care for uninsured patients. Tickets are $1525. For information call 334.273.4565. Tickets on sale at MPAC or www.ticketmaster.com
MONTGOMERY
Candlelight Harpsichord Chamber Ensemble Concert Wednesday, December 1, 6 pm Christchurch offers an elegant candlelight evening of harpsichord chamber music to our parish and community on Wednesday evening, December 1, at 6:00P.M. at 8800 Vaughn Road. The concert will feature music from composers such as Handel, Corelli and Rameau. Musical artist playing for the concert will be Margaret Cauthen, Organist/ Choirmaster of Christchurch, Beth Honer, Montgomery Symphony Orchestra, Dr. Katerina Juraskova, former Cello Fellow, Montgomery Symphony Orchestra, and Dr. Robert Scott, flautist, Montgomery Symphony Orchestra. Vocalist for the concert will be the Christchurch Chancel Choir along with Leah Dubberly and Michele Lott. Tickets ($20.00) for a Champaign Desert Reception immediately following will be offered from the church (334-387-0566 Ext 201) beginning November 15th. Proceeds will go to the Christchurch Pipe Organ Fund.
Please submit any events/pictures to jim@riverregionboom.com
The Boomer Market is to Big to Ignore...How will you Seize the Opportunity?
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Grumpy Aging Boomer by Alisa Singer
Your Purposeless Life-The Sequel
W
e know who we are – the Helicopter Parents everyone makes fun of – always suspended in mid-air above our kids, ready to parachute in to deal with any problem. And if you’ve recently sent your beloved charge off to college you’re probably feeling, mixed in with the pride, a real sense of loss. Because after you’ve unpacked his dorm room, approved his roommates, given instructions to the resident advisor about his curfew and lactose intolerance, you had no choice but to come home feeling that your purpose for existing has disappeared. Let’s see if we can cheer you up. First, let’s challenge the idea that your child’s absence has left your life bereft of purpose and meaning.
I’m going to ask you to think about what, exactly, did this purposeful life with your child consist of? Not allowed to hearken back to the days when your toddler peered out with mistrust at the rest of the world from between your calves. Fast forward past applauding performances at school plays and box lunches with touching little notes tucked inside sandwich wrappers to focus on more recent interactions with your child. How often did your teenager start a conversation with a question along these lines: “Dad/ mom, what was it like for you growing up? I mean, how did you handle the combined pressures of school and social life? Maybe I could gain some valuable insights from your experiences.” Admit it – ever since seventh grade all your guidance and good advice has been summarily scorned unless it happened to be firmly attached to a wad of cash or a set of car keys. So was it the occasional grunt or nod coming from the general direction of your sullen spawn that gave your life purpose and meaning over the last five years? Really? Well, in that case the good news is that nothing’s changed - for some time since, your life already lacked any significant purpose. So welcome to the sequel – Your Purposeless Life Part II. Feels a lot like the first movie, doesn’t it? Still, there’s no reason to be defeat-
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ist. You just need to understand how to operate your helicopter in this new terrain. But let me warn you against seeking guidance in self-help books like: I’ll Miss You Too – An Off-to-College Guide for Parents and Students; Don’t Tell Me What to Do, Just Send Money or the classic, Letting Go, now in its fifth edition. The titles tell you everything you need to know. These books are designed to ease parents through the separation process and encourage their children to become self-sufficient young adults. Are you getting this? A successful transition to young adulthood, the creation of a self separate and apart from one’s family, healthy transitions to independence – these are all code for “We don’t need you anymore.” The disconcerting thing about these strategies is that if you follow them you will succeed in raising offspring who will be strong and independent enough to spread their wings and fly away, leaving you - you guessed it- back at the nest. And contrary to popular belief, it’s often not an empty nest; it’s one you’re likely to share with a strange middle-aged bird who is, as applicable, either balding or menopausal, (or possibly both) and in any event, grouchy. Thriving independence may be well and good for our kids, but what about us, the ones left behind? Not much of a payback for all those years of dedication, sacrifice and, of course, hovering.
Which is why it is imperative to plant the seeds of self-doubt early enough so that by the time your child is college-age, he will be paralyzed by the thought of making an important decision without you. And if you did not have the foresight to plant those seeds years ago there are still many things you can do to keep your little bird tethered to the nest, i.e., to “clip his wings” even after he’s flown the coop. It’s a given that you’re aware of the communication and surveillance equipment at your disposal – that cordless umbilical cord, the cellphone, and video chat, the delightful innovation that allows you to speak to your student live while viewing him in his new habitat and checking up
on the state of his personal hygiene. But here’s a few more tools to help you work the remote control:
Golden handcuffs - These have worked well in the corporate world and will keep your child dependent on you for years to come. Deposits into her personal account should be made weekly, or even daily, conditioned upon regular communication or any other item on your agenda at the moment. Joint decision-making - All major decisions affecting your student should be made jointly, by which I mean by you and your spouse. Of course, if you really feel the need, you should consult with your child but decisions like which classes to take, what area to major in, whom to date, and which fraternity/sorority to join are just too critical to leave to the partly formed, beer-marinated brain of an eighteen year old. Get to know the teachers - It’s the only way to be sure you can undermine their relationship with your student. Keep in mind that you want your child to believe her parents are the only adults she can trust.
Find a local landing pad for the helicopter - If you have the financial resources, rent or buy an apartment near campus so you can drop by unannounced. This will keep your student in a state of constant anxiety and limit her ability to develop undesirable dependencies outside of the family such as drugs, alcohol, or lasting friendships. But even if these tactics fail, based on a recent survey of 1,200 college graduates conducted by Monster.com, 71% expect to be living with their parents for some time after graduation. Which means, odds are they’ll be back whatever you do but, then again, why take a chance. G.A.B.
Alisa Singer’s humorous essays have appeared in a variety of print and online newspapers and magazines across the country. You can learn more about her work by visiting her website: www.AlisaSinger.com or contacting her at ASingerAuthor@gmail.com.
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