Boomers (Nov/Dec 2013)

boomers Est. 2011 u Mid November - Mid December 2013

FRED MARCHMAN releases “Portals of Paradise” Support St. Jude’s, healthy lifestyle

Give Thanks Walk set for Nov. 23

Epic Journey to Recovery

Author uses writing as physical therapy

Dance competition, art auction raises funds for animal rescue

Volume 3, Number 11 Gulf Coast Newspapers GulfCoastNewsToday.com

2

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

AwardWinning.

Nationally recognized care delivered daily.

Every day, we commit ourselves to providing patients with the kind of high-quality care that has earned national recognition from some of the most demanding organizations in healthcare.

These seals are your assurance that South Baldwin Regional Medical Center is deeply committed to providing you and your family with outstanding care. To find a physician who practices at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center, call 251-949-3627.

SouthBaldwinRMC.com

Top Performer on The Joint Commission Key Quality Measures™ 2011

72594_SBRM_Award_7_167x9_83c.indd 1

2012 & 2013

2011 & 2012

2012 & 2013

10/29/13 11:45 AM

Mid November - Mid December 2013

11/20/2013 10:00 a.m.

Foley City Hall 407 E. Laurel Ave. Foley, AL 36535

12/4/2013 10:00 a.m.

Foley City Hall 407 E. Laurel Ave. Foley, AL 36535

Boomers

3

INSIDE: 4

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

healthy eating helps us heal

page 14

5u

6u 7u

8u 9u 10u 11u 12u 15u 18u 19u 20u 21u 22u

23u 24u 26u 27u 28u

About the cover “Portals of Paradise” Keep on booming Dancing for dogs, Prancing for cats Fundraiser to aid animal resuce St. Jude’s Give Thanks Walk Correction Calendar of Events Festival of nativities Brent Burns: Get your “Beach Fix” The Counseling Centre Flashback 50 Making the Most of Each Day SBRMC earns Top Performer Alice in Wonderland production Two Americans in China Indvidual vs. community Food for Thought Christmas book review Epic journey to recovery “Farming Feeds Alabama” cookbook Holocaust survivor shares insights New civil rights and justice course 29u America’s Navy is coming home 30u Precision Imaging welcomes Knecht

You Get What You Need...

uRolling Stones, flipping pages Boomers magazine conveys information, activities and features for and about the baby boomers generation. While revisiting memories from the 1960s era and delving into critical examinations and comparisons thereof, Boomers also strives to pinpoint leisure activities; medical, political and environmental information; and technological options of specific interest to this group. The magazine offers possibilities of the past, present and future for a generation that never stops booming.

features@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

An Introduction to Boomers magazine

by Editor Jessica Jones

boomers Wants Your Input

Boomers magazine would like submissions for our Bragging Rights section. Please let us know if you have any of the following of your grandchildren, spouse, family or friends: 1. Unusual nicknames 2. Funny or memorable quotes 3. Candid photos

Want to advertise in boomers magazine?

Full page advertisers get one full page for submitted content, per month Half-page advertisers get a half page for submitted content, per month.

Contact the editor to find your local ad representative.

boomers Est. 2011

Jessica Jones, Editor Editorial and Photography Paige Renka Layout and Cover Design Marie Cafferty, Pam Denham, Karen Hurt, Mary Johnson, Cathi Jones, Sharon Kendall, Gina Lanaux, Mahala Church, Kim Neal, John Stump and Jane Tyler Contributing writers Deirdre Davison, Dr. Linda Mitchell and Amanda Roberts Columnists Fred Marchman Cartoonist Gulf Coast Newspapers 217 N. McKenzie St. Foley, AL 36535 251-943-2151 features@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

Mid November - Mid December 2013

About the cover

Boomers

5

f o w e i v e r A

photos by stephen savage

Fred Marchman signs his book “Portals of Paradise.”

By John stump In “Portals of Paradise” by Dioramananda, we find ourselves transported back to the 1970s. This is an era I know well, for I am a product of the 60s just as the author.

During 1973 in Monterey, Calif., author Fred Marchman finds himself in an unending search of the heart and mind of the artist, as did many during this time. It was then he ventured into the wonderful world of poetry, verse and rhyme, as well as travel and wanderlust for all that is sculpture, paint and drawing. This handwritten book is hard to read at first because we are so digitally oriented today, but once you get your mind into the 70s, it’s fine.

The hippie culture, LSD, the Beatles, Nixon and Watergate, as well as the Roads Less Traveled with Kerouac all helped write this book. The doom and gloom of Vietnam during an era of Gregorian influence was a constant tug downward during this time. Nevertheless, Fred persevered and found inspiration in the wisdom of the Zen masters and the esoteric dance of the American Sufi in a search for higher consciousness, even with an alchemic maestro from South America.

Poetry of Dante and the prayers of India’s “awakened one” brought a spiritual dimension to Fred’s life and work during this psychedelic time on the West coast, as he was searching for stability and truth in his life. San Francisco was the epicen-

ter of the drug and hippie culture at that time and Fred’s prose and drawings reflect those times.

In “Thee Song of The Cozmic Wind,” the “ Diamond Angels” and “Thee Law of Thee Flow,” all help us see the author’s relentless search for love, light and life during the 1970s. In the poem “Thee Sun of Life,” Fred’s philosophy is brought to the forefront – “When you can see the sun of your own life you are saved! O glorious source. Let my heart send healthful, healing, heart rays as art from the all!”

This book explains a slice of the early life and adventures of this academic artist. Fred was professor of sculpture at Universidad Central, while serving as a Peace Corp volunteer in Quito, Ecuador 1965-68, where his work is reflected in his poetry and art. Yes, this book can be best appreciated by those that loved the ‘60s and ‘70s like I did!

6

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

g n i m o o b Keep on healthy , y p p a h , e iv t c sidents stay a

n Area re

M

any Boomers around Baldwin County enjoy active social lives, exercise, sports and other activities that enrich quality of life.

For example, Oct. 7 through Oct. 12, 24 members of the South Alabama Senior Travelers enjoyed a trip to Chattanooga, Tenn. and Helen, Ga. All seniors are invited to visit and join this travel club; meetings are the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. at the Senior Center in Foley. Membership dues are $10 per year. For more information, visit sast4fun.com, call President Diane Hutton at 251-967-4190 or First Vice President Louise Childs at 251-943-6624.

Area residents enjoyed a recent Daphne Senior Center Fun Day, and participants enjoyed a seated cake walk and bid for wrapped items with Daphne Senior Center money (their version of Monopoly money). Many unwrapped such treasures as Rice A Roni, canned vegetables, Thanksgiving decorations and handmade pot holders. One lucky person even unwrapped a marijuana test kit, while all enjoyed a good laugh. The group enjoyed free hot dogs and hamburgers after their activities. The group

holds exercise classes, lunches, games and the upcoming Christmas party.

The Club is open to all adults 55 years and older. Come and enjoy the educational programming, trips, games and exercise classes. For more information, call 251-621-3703 ext 219. The meetings are held at the Daphne Senior Center, 2605 Highway 98, Daphne.

Several Eastern Shore residents gather together on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m., weather permitting, to participate in Bocce Ball, lawn bowling, in Daphne’s W.O. Lott Park at the southeast corner. According to documentation researched by Al Guarisco, “Traces of the game can be found among the early Egyptians, and graphic representations of figures tossing a ball or polished stone have been recorded as early as 5200 B.C. While modern day bocce ball bears little resemblance to these early findings, one thing is certain: that through its evolution the objective has been constant — try to come as close to a fixed target as possible.”

For more information, call Parks and Recreation at 251-621-3703.

Photos by Jessica Jones and Louise Childs

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Boomers

7

Party for rescue pets to hit Point Clear Fundraiser features dance contest, auctions and art to aid animal rescue

By Theresa Corbin Contributing writer All the entries are in, the finalists have been selected and now it is time to see who can really dance. On Nov. 21, finalists for the Dancing for Dogs, Prancing for Cats dance competition will strut and shake their stuff for the Stray Love Foundation at the Grand Hotel in Point Clear.

Join dancers, spectators, merchants, sponsors and volunteers and enjoy not only the final battle of dancers, but also delight in a 20-piece big band, dancers, artists, and wonderful merchants, according to Gayle Guthrie with the Stray Love Foundation.

The fundraiser will include a silent and live auction with guest host, auctioneer and animal lover Cherish Lombard from Fox TV 10 and host of Studio10.

Original art signed by the internationally known and Alabama born artist Nall will be part of the live auction.

Many wonderful items from favorite local merchants and artists will also be up for bid at the event. Photos of the auction items will be posted on the Stray Love Foundation’s website,

straylovefoundation.com.

Come for the dancing and bidding and stay for the band. City Rhythm Big Band will be playing music by Count Basie, Woody Herman, Glen Miller, Duke Ellington and many others.

The grand sounds of big band era music will round out a fantastic evening at the Grand Hotel.

All proceeds will benefit The Stray Love Foundation. According to straylovefoundation.com, the foundation “assist(s) in the rescue, care and placement of stray, abused, neglected or orphaned (when owner passes away) animals that are referred to us by participating vets, rescued by one of our volunteers or when we respond to a hardship case.”

Stray Love Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit animal advocacy group, “has rescued, placed and assisted more than 350 animals in the last 3-and-a-half years, spending almost $84,000 in vetting and animal care alone,” Guthrie said. The fundraiser will allow the Stray Love Foundation to continue this work in helping those who cannot help themselves.

Nall’s artwork to be auctioned off at the event

Tickets are $75 per person or $500 for a table of eight. Purchase tickets, or if you can’t attend the event you can donate to the cause at BigBand.

Biz. Guthrie and the Stray Love Foundation welcomes all to come out and “enjoy great music, art, wonderful auction items and a night you’ll never forget — all of this in grand style, Nov. 21, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Grand Hotel in Point Clear.”

For sponsorship information email the foundation at info@straylovefoundation.com or call the sponsor coordinator, Kade Laws, at 479-414-2144. To learn more, visit straylovefoundation.com. You can also like them on Facebook at StrayLoveFoundation Magnolia Springs or find them on Youtube at youtube.com/ user/straylovefoundation.

8

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Give Thanks Walk celebrates the work of St. Jude’s By deirdre davison Contributing writer Before “That Girl” star, Marlo Thomas became the spokesperson for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, her father, comedian Danny Thomas, was the pediatric research hospital’s spokesman. Many don’t realize St. Jude’s was a promise kept and his brainchild.

A promise kept? Yes; when Danny Thomas was a young, struggling actor with a baby on the way, he put $7, all of the money he had, into the collection plate at church and prayed to St. Jude Thaddeus, the patron saint of hopeless causes, to provide the means to pay his wife’s medical expenses. The next day, he got an acting job paying nearly 10 times his offering amount. A couple of years later, he prayed again, but this time prayed, “Help me find my way in life, and I’ll build you a shrine.”

Thomas kept his word even though the “shrine” took well over a decade to become a reality. In 1962, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, born out of the power of answered prayers, opened its doors so, in Thomas’ words, “no child should die in the dawn of life.”

Building the hospital was only one part of the promise, however.

Thomas also had to find a way to pay the ongoing operating costs. In 1957, he with 100 other Arab-American community leaders formed ALSAC, The American Lebanese Syrian Associated Charities. Today, ALSAC is responsible for keeping the dream alive. St. Jude’s daily operating expense is nearly $1.8 million, the majority of which is raised through ALSAC’s fund raising activities, according to stjude.org.

Thanks and Giving is but one of the fund raising campaigns and runs from Thanksgiving through the new year. The campaign encourages consumers to help raise funds at partici-

pating retailers by adding a donation at checkout or by purchasing specialty items to benefit St. Jude’s. The Thanks and Giving campaign also includes the Give Thanks Walk.

This year, the Mobile-Baldwin Give Thanks 5k Walk will take place on the Eastern Shore, Saturday, Nov. 23. Registration is free and those interested in walking should visit

givethanks.org to register. Those who cannot be present, but wish to participate through the financial support of a walker or team can also do so online. The event will take place from 8-10 a.m. at the Eastern Shore Centre, 30500 Alabama 181 in Spanish Fort. Walkers will need to sign in at 7 a.m. and the walk will start at 8 a.m. in front of Wintzell’s.

Even if you are unable to walk, you can offer moral and financial support while enjoying the morning at the Eastern Shore Centre. The morning will be filled with familyfriendly activities, and the donations of every individual, team and/or corporate partner you support make a

difference in the lives of the St. Jude patients — the children facing life threatening illnesses.

Why support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital? The hospital’s mission is “to advance cures, and means of prevention, for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. Consistent with the vision of our founder Danny Thomas, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion or a family’s ability to pay.”

And St. Jude takes their mission seriously. No family pays St. Jude for anything. Eighty-one cents of every dollar are used for research and treatment. Of the $1.8 million daily operating expense, 75 percent is provided through public donations.

St. Jude has been treating childhood diseases with ever increasing success since 1962. Childhood cancer survival rates have risen from 20 percent when the facility opened to 80 percent today. That rise in success could not have been possible without ongoing research, and the research could not have happened without the donations from people just like you and me.

Be the one who makes a difference. Find a way to participate in the 2013 Mobile/Baldwin Give Thanks 5k Walk. Keep the belief that “no child should die in the dawn of life” alive through your support. Give thanks, for our blessings are many and no child is a hopeless cause.

Join the walk What: Give Thanks 5k Walk When: Nov. 23, 7 a.m. sign in, 8 a.m. walk begins Where: Eastern Shore Centre, 30500 Alabama 181, Spanish Fort Cause: Helps St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital continue their mission

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Boomers

9

Baldwin County Clubs update This is an update to the mid-Sept.–mid-Oct. Boomers article on Baldwin County Clubs by Cathy Higgins. Deletions and additions have been found since publication and are reflected below: n The Hub City Lions Club of Robertsdale has disbanded. n Information for Kiwanis Club of Fairhope and the Eastern Shore was incorrectly listed. The group meets at 7:30 a.m. each Friday at Julwin’s Restaurant on Fairhope Avenue in downtown Fairhope.

For more information, contact Kiwanis President Philip L. Cusa at 251-591-0748, 251-378-6501, philcusa7@gmail.com or pcusa@altapointe.org.

boomers Wants Your Submissions Attention, readers:

Boomers magazine would like submissions for our Bragging Rights section. Please let us know if you have any of the following of your grandchildren, spouse, family or friends: 1. Unusual nicknames 2. Funny or memorable quotes 3. Candid photos To submit, email editor Jessica Jones at features@gulfcoastnewspapers.com. All photos must be at least 300 dpi or 1 MB for quality reproduction. Please include your first and last name and city of residence in the email.

SOUTH BALDWIN

PODIATRY Foley • Lillian

Dr. Debra M. Gibson Comprehensive conservative and surgical treatments are a daily practice at South Baldwin Podiatry for all foot related issues, including: • • • • • •

Bunions Hammertoes Heel/Arch Paint Ingrown Toenails Fractures/Trauma Wound Care

• • • • • •

Flat Feet Correction Removal of Soft Tissue Masses Sports Injuries Warts Neuromas Fungal Infections

Dr. Gibson also offers an extensive collection of products to meet the needs of diabetic patients. These specialized shoe lines are designed to help diabetics comfortably deal with the many foot problems associated with diabetes, without sacrificing style.

www.southbaldwinpodiatry.com

Comprehensive Care at Every Step...

FOLEY LOCATION 1 770 North Alston Street, Foley, AL 36535 251 -943-3668

LILLIAN LOCATION 1 2831 6th Street, Lillian, AL 36549 251 -943-3668

No representation is made about the quality of the podiatric services to be performed or the expertise of the podiatrist performing such services.

10

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

calendar of events uArts

Bay of the Holy Spirit Jubilee presents Duck Dynasty

Nov. 15 Oak Hollow Farm, Fairhope Bay of the Holy Spirit Jubilee attendees will enjoy an onstage interview format with NY Times bestselling author Andy Andrews and the Robertson family (Duck Dynasty, Si, Phil, Kay and Korie presented by Page and Palette), live music, inspiring speakers (Jill Connor Browne, The Sweet Potato Queen) and activities for the entire family.

Pageandpalette.com

1st Annual Youth-Reach Golf Tournament

Nov. 15 Glenlakes Golf Club, 9530 Clubhouse Drive, Foley Golfers of all ages and skill levels will gather at Glenlakes Golf Club to enjoy a day on the greens and help raise money for this worthy local program. Youth-Reach is a Christ centered young adult ministry. The YRGC mission is to give a fresh chance to those who have no where else to turn and shine the light of Jesus Christ on their path.

251-967-4809 or youth-reach.org

Lights on for the Holidays!

6 p.m., Nov. 21 Free Downtown Fairhope 251-929-1466

Holiday Ice Skating

11 a.m.-11 p.m., Nov. 22 continued through season Marlin Circle, The Wharf, Orange Beach alwharf.com

Holiday Stroll in Fairhope 6-8 p.m., Nov. 22 Free Downtown Fairhope

Tree Lighting and Open House in Olde Towne Daphne 5:30-7:30 p.m., Nov. 22 Free City Hall, Downtown Daphne 251-621-9000

Christmas Bazaar

8 a.m.-12 p. m., Nov. 23

and Entertainment

Redeemer Luthern Church, 200 S. Section St., Fairhope

Movie Night

6:30 p.m., Nov. 23 Free Downtown Fairhope

1st Annual Bazaar

8 a.m.-4 p.m., Nov. 23 Tymelessly Modern Hair Salon, 101 W. Fig Ave., Foley Jewelry, baked goods, handbags, ornaments. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Women’s Care Medical Center.

251-943-1797

Shepherd’s Place Adult Respite Center’s Candy Cane Walk

4 p.m., Nov. 24 $20 13 years and up, $15 under 13 Downtown Fairhope Lace up your walking shoes and help bring awareness to caregivers as well as those who are affected by memory and physical challenges while enjoying a fun-filled afternoon participating in the Shepherd’s Place Adult Respite Center’s Candy Cane walk. Complete with Santa as the Grand Marshall, T-shirts, refreshments, and goodie bags for all participants, the walk is sure to be an enjoyable holiday experience for the entire family.

Shepherd’s Place respite.com or in person at Fairhope United Methodist Church or by mail: Shepherd’s Place foundation PO Box 1281, Fairhope, AL 36533. Make checks payable to Shepherd’s Place Foundation

Christmas Open House 1-5 p.m., Nov. 24 Downtown Fairhope

Fifth Annual Festival of Nativities

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 13-15 Free St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 28788 North Main St., Daphne St. Paul’s will usher in the Christmas season with this special exhibit that features more than 400 nativity displays in a variety of mediums, representing religions and traditions from countries all over the world. Refreshments will be available. The exhibit is especially child-friendly, with a crèche play area, puzzles and books provided — all especially designed for students aged four years and up.

For more information or to schedule group/school tours, call the church office at 251-626-2421, email debbiequinn@ bellsouth.net, or visit stpaulseasternshore.com.

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Boomers

11

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church to host Festival of Nativities: A celebration of special Christmas traditions

By Pam Denham

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Daphne will host its Fifth Annual Festival of Nativities to usher in the Christmas season. This special exhibit has featured more than 400 nativity displays in a variety of mediums, representing religions and traditions from countries all over the world.

“It is an honor for St. Paul’s to host this celebration for our community,” Debbie Quinn, Festival of Nativities planning committee member, said. “We hope that people of all faiths and beliefs will visit and enjoy the craftsmanship and the collections that people have created.”

The exhibit will be held in the church’s Life Center, located at 28788 N. Main St. in Daphne. This special

“We hope that people of all faiths and beliefs will visit and enjoy the craftsmanship and the collections that people have created.”

— Debbie Quinn, Festival of Nativities planning committee member Christmas season tradition will open to the community from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily on Friday, Dec. 13; Saturday, Dec. 14; and Sunday, Dec. 15.

No admission will be charged and refreshments will be available. The exhibit is especially child-friendly, with a crèche play area, puzzles and books provided — all especially designed for students aged 4 years and up. For more information or to schedule group/ school tours, call the church office at 251-626-2421, email debbiequinn@bellsouth.net, or visit stpaulseasternshore.com.

About the Festival of Nativities

The Festival of Nativities exhibit has featured a vast assortment of more than 400 nativity scenes. These handcrafted masterpieces have been designed and constructed with mediums such as clay, glass, hay, paper, porcelain and wood, as well as other, more exotic materials, like abalone shells, alabaster, balsa wood and bamboo. Additionally, there will be works of Bay area artists available for purchase, with a wide range of perspectives on the story of the birth of Jesus, stemming from different time periods, international faiths

and cultural origins.

To date, contributing local artists are Lucy Hunnicutt, Provie Muso, Lee Holmes, Shelly Smith, Americ’a Jones, Amber Ivey, Debbie Rawls Holobaugh, Ack Moore, Sr., Molly Reyenga, Bill Yeaarty, Laura Cane Armstrong, Candace Pryor of Tom Jones Pottery and Abby Leach. Also contributing very special nativity scenes are St. Paul's Preschool and the Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast.

This is a rare opportunity to see such a vast array of international history and traditions on display locally.

About the History of Nativity Scenes

Defined as a “model or tableau representing the scene of Jesus Christ’s birth,” the custom of crèche showcasing began in the year 1223. St. Francis of Assisi is widely recognized as the catalyst for this tradition, as he is said to have been inspired by the sight of shepherds in the fields of the Italian village Grecio one moonlit night while traveling. He encouraged those in his community to reenact the Nativity, and the tradition spread to France, Germany and from Europe to other continents.

12

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Burns just returned from Arcadia, Calif. where Groupie Doll, a horse he partly owns won her second Filly and Mare Sprint.

Get your ‘Beach Fix’

Updates from Gulf Coast singer/songwriter

By Sharon Kendall Sand Spur Records Some readers may be wondering about the latest from Brent Burns, the singer and songwriter who’s CD “Baby Boomers” was featured on Boomers’ cover of the March 2013 issue.

For those who aren’t lucky enough to live at the beach and those who wish they did, legendary Gulf Coast singer, songwriter and humorist Brent Burns has the answer — a “Beach Fix!” His new CD is a mixture of the beach music and comedy songs that locals and visitors have come to expect. The 12 new songs on “Beach Fix” are written with some of Nashville’s heavy hitters: former BMI vice president, Roger Sovine; Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, Bobby Weinstein (“Hurts So Bad,” “Goin’ Out Of My Head,” ‘I’m On The Outside Looking In”); Steve Dean (six No. 1’s including “Watching You” recorded by Rodney Atkins); and Bill Whyte (Country Radio Broadcaster Hall of Fame, “Crickets” recorded by Joe Nichols). Burns performed many of these new songs during the Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival Nov. 7-17.

Named the official Music Ambassador of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism, Burns continues a busy performance schedule, playing more than 200 dates this year for corporate events, festivals, concerts and clubs. His travels have taken him all across the U.S. and even to the Dominican Republic. He recently visited Key West for the annual Trop Rock Music Association awards, where he was nominated for male vocalist and entertainer of the year, and “Baby Boomers” was nominated for album of the year.

“People always say it’s an honor to be nominated, but that really is true,” Burns said. “I feel lucky to still be doing what I love to do.”

But Burns has hit another winning note as of late.

He just returned from Arcadia, Calif., where he attended the 2013 Breeder’s Cup Championship, the premier event in the thoroughbred racing world. Groupie Doll, a mare that Burns owns in partnership with longtime friends, Fred and Buff Bradley and Carl Hurst, won her second Filly and Mare Sprint. Winning one Breeder’s Cup race is an accomplish-

ment. Winning two back to back is something only a handful of horses have done.

“Our operation is small time. This whole experience is catching lightning in a bottle,” Burns said.

As wonderful as the win was, it was bittersweet for Burns and his partners. Groupie Doll was sold at the Keeneland auction in Lexington, Ky. Nov. 6.

“Groupie Doll has done so much for us. She’s given me the thrill of a lifetime. She deserves to go to a home where she can have her pick of the boys and be the mother of lots of fast babies,” Burns said. Burns attended the auction to say a final good bye to Groupie Doll.

Burns’ trip to California was on the heels of his annual trip to Key West, Fla. He was there promoting “Beach Fix” by performing at several events in conjunction with the annual Meeting of the Minds event.

“Beach Fix” is available at many local shops in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. To order online, learn more about Burns and see his performance schedule, visit brentburns.com.

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Boomers

13

14

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Healthy eating helps us heal

By Marie Cafferty Area Agency on Aging The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program empowers people with chronic diseases to take an active role in managing their ongoing health conditions. It is a two-and-a-half-hour workshop given once a week for six weeks and focuses on symptom management by applying tools like healthy eating.

What, how and why we eat is very personal. Our eating habits have developed over the years. Healthy eating and making healthier food choices are tools in the Living Well Alabama SelfManagement Tool Box. Because our eating habits develop over a lifetime, changing them is not easy. Success is most often achieved when we learn and practice how to make small, steady changes over time.

Healthy eating is directly linked to our physical and mental well-being.

Making healthy food choices is essential to managing chronic conditions.

Several things happen when we nourish our bodies with the right fuel mix: we have more energy and feel less fatigue and we boost our ability to lessen further problems from conditions like heart disease, diabetes and cancer. The foods we eat impact how our brains help us manage the emotional ups and downs of managing chronic conditions.

There is no such thing as a perfect eating style. The essence of healthy eating means making healthy choices most days of the week. It doesn’t mean giving up the foods we like and it certainly doesn’t mean buying “special” foods. Healthy eating means eating a variety of foods. Choose foods as nature intended them with little or no processing. Processed foods often have ingredients added (fat or sugar) or removed (fiber, nutrients). Foods that are least processed include grilled

chicken breast instead of fried chicken nuggets and whole grains like whole grain bread, pasta and brown rice instead of refined grains such as white rice and white bread.

Eat a wide variety of colorful foods.

Photo-chemicals are compounds found only in plant foods – fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds. They give fruits and vegetables their bright colors. These compounds are known to promote health and fight disease.

Tips to manage eating habits:

n Stop eating when you first feel full.

This will help control the amount you eat and prevent overeating.

Like all new skills, this takes practice. Paying attention to how your body feels while eating helps to gradually gauge this feeling of fullness. n Make your meals last at least 15-20 minutes.

This is roughly the time it takes for the stomach to signal the brain that you are filing up. If you finish before, wait at least 15 minutes before getting more food. n Pay attention to what you eat. It is very easy to plough through an entire bag of chips, cookies or any bite size food while socializing with friends, watching television or while on the computer. Pre-portion snacks into single portion size and keep the rest out of reach. n Watch out for supersizing. Twenty years ago, the typical cheeseburger was about 330 calories; now it has a colossal 590 calories. Cookies went from 1/2 inches wide 55 calories each to 3 1/2 inches and now weigh in at a hefty 275 calories — five times the calories. When Boomers were coming up, the average soda came in 6

1/2 ounce bottles with 85 calories; today it’s jumped to 20 ounces to a bottle with 250 calories.

We don’t have to sacrifice making healthy food choices when eating out.

Eating at restaurants:

n Select restaurants that prepare a variety of foods in healthy ways – broiling, baking and steamed dishes in addition to fried foods. n When planning dinner at a restaurant, go online and look over the menu in advance. Most restaurants post their menus on the Internet and in the front of the restaurant. Deciding beforehand what you want to order and how much you want to eat can help eliminate poor choices. n If you are with a group, order first to avoid the temptation to change after hearing what others have selected.

As an alternative to ordering a main course, order small plates or appetizers. n Consider sharing an entrée with a dining companion or plan to eat half of what you are served and take the rest home for another meal. Ask to have the container brought with your meal so you can box it up before you start eating. n Choose menu items that are low in fat, sodium and sugar or ask if they can be prepared that way.

For more information about Living Well Alabama Healthier Choices, call Jane Mize at 251-706-4688 or Marie Cafferty at 251-706-4685. Living Well Alabama does not conflict with other programs. It is meant to be used with participants’ regular treatment plan.

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Boomers

15

THE COUNSELING CENTRE 1404-F W. 1st Street, Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Telephone 251-948-2999 willhodge@counselingcentregs.com The Counseling Centre is a new service for the citizens of south Baldwin County. Located at 1404-F West 1st Street in Gulf Shores, the Centre offers counseling services for individuals, couples, and families at a reasonable cost. The Centre also offers Financial Therapy, mediation, and professional coaching.

Will Hodge is the owner and principal counselor. He has an interdisciplinary PhD in counseling and human development, a master’s degree in Social Work, and a master of divinity in Pastoral Care and Counseling. Will served the University of Alabama as Associate Professor, Birmingham City Schools as a counselor for the employee assistance program, and chaplain for the University of Alabama Hospitals in Birmingham. He also has experience working with hospice and issues related to death, dying, and grief.

Will has a Private Independent Practice (PIP) license and is a Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP). He is a member of the Financial Therapy Association.

MONEY DISORDERS

Research indicates that money and financial priorities are a source of great tension for 84% of couples who responded to the questionnaire, and that they argue about money more than sex.

Tradition plays a big part in making financial decisions, with men often planning most of the big-picture, long-term items, and women managing the day-to-day finances.

Women tend to have a greater understanding about what is important to men, than men’s comprehension

that women really do care and understand financial issues. However, women may overestimate how much men care about living debt free and saving for the future.

To add fuel to the fire, many couples are reluctant to share information about their finances with each other.

Money remains the taboo subject for Americans.

MONEY SCRIPTS

So, how do men and women form their traditional ideas about money?

What is your money script? Don’t have a clue? Most people have no idea what motivates their attitudes and behaviors with money.

Ted and Brad Klontz developed the idea that money scripts are unconscious core beliefs about money that form from childhood relationships with parents and significant others. Money scripts are triggers for healthy and unhealthy practices. Unhealthy and dysfunctional money practices may interfere with or destroy important relationships.

Ted and Brad identified ten types of money scripts that powerfully influence how we think about and use money throughout life. They add that money scripts are often incomplete, partial, or conflicting truths.

The unconscious, immature mind of a child distorts direct and indirect messages about money. In adulthood, these truths and messages are powerful determinants of attitudes and behavior. Money scripts may trigger behaviors that disrupt personal and professional relationships and may lead to problematic and disastrous outcomes.

The following is a discussion of four money scripts.

Continued on next page

16

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Continued from previous page

MONEY SCRIPTS/MONEY DISORDERS

n Money Avoidance Money avoiders view money in a negative light, even to the point of thinking of money as evil. They may also think that people with money are greedy and undeserving of their financial gains.

Money avoidance may result from receiving a windfall due to a painful experience such as inheritance from a parent. Spending or giving away the money is a way to deal with the pain and grief. n Money Worship Money worshippers view money as the answer to their problems. For them, more money means more happiness and less emotional pain. Money worshipers think that more money solves problems, provides power, and creates happiness. This group can never have enough money. n Money Status The recent housing bubble is a perfect example of individuals caught in the vice of seeking status with objects. In this case, the object was a house. Dealers in luxury goods love these people. Examples are Rolex, BMW, Lexus, Cadillac, and Ralph Lauren to name a few. Would you rather say your child attends Harvard or Huntingdon? Buying into status may result in credit card debt, bankruptcy, and unfulfilled hopes, dreams, and promises. The name says everything about this script. Having the biggest, newest, shiniest, and most expensive is a path to elevated status with family, friends, and cohorts.

Individuals with low self-esteem may fit this category. n Money Vigilance Frugality, saving, and secrecy describe this trait.

These practices are laudable unless taken to extreme.

For example, Hetty Green was the richest woman in America in the 19th century. She had the title as the stingiest woman in America. She was so unwilling to part with any of her wealth that she refused to pay for treatment for a sore on her son’s leg that eventually resulted in amputation. Money vigilance taken to extreme is parsimony, or miserliness. Dickens’ Scrooge is another good example of valuing money more than relationships.

Money scripts are not inherently wrong, but extreme behaviors due to the money scripts may interfere with achieving financial goals. A balanced approach is usually more productive.

Ted and Brad indicate that individuals usually have one predominate trait, but that two scripts may have a correlation. Money avoiders may also score high as money worshippers, indicating an unconscious desire for what they seem to reject.

NEWS FOR BOOMERS

A three generational study by Ameriprise indicate that boomers have little awareness of how their assistance to their parents and children influences their re-

tirement plans.

Ninety percent of boomers are assisting their adult children in at least one area of finances. The following illustrates the degree to which boomers are assisting their children:

• • • • • • • • • •

70 percent - College expenses 50 percent - Buy a Car 50 percent - Free rent at home 40 percent - Car insurance 40 percent - Cosign car loan or lease 30 percent - Medical insurance 30 percent - Rent and/or utility payments 30 percent - Car payments 20 percent - Down payment on house 10 percent - Mortgage payment

Financial Therapy

So, what does all of this mean? Individuals and couples do not need to endure undue stress when dealing with money. Financial therapy is a nonjudgmental approach to assist individuals to recognize the emotional triggers and experiences that may lead to poor financial decisions. Financial therapists also understand that money is the last taboo in American culture, meaning that people struggle when communicating about finances. Recognizing that people may hedge the truth when discussing financial matters, therapists emphasize straightforward communication, especially with partners and family members. Secretly spending, hiding, investing or withholding information about money are practices that threaten the health of relationships. When clients discover their irrational, unconscious beliefs and myths about money, they find the freedom to discuss one of the most important aspects of life.

The Counseling Centre offers financial therapy to individuals, couples, and families entangled in the web of dysfunctional money practices. Financial therapy is different from financial counseling or wealth management, which are specialties that provide advice and guidance regarding finances. Financial therapist often collaborate with financial counselors when clients are unable to agree about how to manage finances or are unable to change poor spending habits.

The Counseling Centre wishes you a happy, healthy, and debtfree holiday.

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Prudential

Boomers

Nichols Real Estate

6351 Monroe Street, Daphne, AL 36526 • 251-626-2030 • www.prudentialnichols.com An independently owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates LLC. Prudential, the Prudential logo and the Rock symbol are registered service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license with no affiliation of Prudential. Equal Housing Opportunity.

An Eastern Shore tradition for over 37 years, Prudential Nichols Real Estate has been successfully serving buyers and sellers. Rental properties also available.

TOP AGENTS FOR

October, 2013

Top Listing: Siemssen Team

Top Selling: Elizabeth Kaye

Top Closing: Lew Bryant

PRICE REDUCED

NEW LISTING

$309,000

- 1 Bens Bluff Street, Spanish Fort MLS#: 205243/259560 - Pristine Stately Brick, Move- In Ready!

No neighbors directly in rear or on the right side. Gourmet kitchen granite countertops, hardwood floors, large cover patio and deck overlooking a fenced back yard. Split bedroom. All the bells and whistles. Contact The Nichols Family Team @ 251-621-1000.

$194,500 - 314 Gayfer Court Unit #19, Fairhope

MLS#: 193563/247325 – Beautiful condo in Fairhope-renovated in 2009 w/hardwood, ceramic tile & carpet floor, new full bath added in 2010. Crown moldings, smooth ceilings, designer lavatory cabinets in 1/2 bath & up private bath, plantation shutters on down windows. Refrigerator, washer/dryer stays. Granite countertops throughout. Contact Elizabeth Kaye @ 251-626-2030 or 251-490-1111.

$159,000 - 4 Yacht Club Drive Unit #14

$429,000 - 67 General Canby Drive,

MLS#: 192657/246313 – Great view of Mobile Bay. Condo has many upgrades. Granite countertops, wet bar, stainless steel refrigerator and dishwasher, washer/dryer and unit has its own private elevator. Community has outdoor pool, gazebo/fishing pier, and is gated. Contact Elizabeth Kaye @ 251-626-2030 or 251-490-1111.

MLS#: 202936/256998 – Custom built 4 or 5 bedroom home with 11 ft. ceilings, plantation shutters, large kitchen with granite countertops, 5-burner gas stove, and double convection oven. Kitchen opens to family room with built-in bookcases and gas fireplace, parlor room for receiving guests, formal dining room, and huge great room. Walk-out basement is a must-see!

Screened back deck is overlooking salt water pool.

Contact Lew Bryant @ 251-626-2030 or 251-752-1798.

(Sunset Bay Villas), Daphne

$375,000

- 35701 County Road 39, Stapleton MLS#: 201902/255908 - Large brick home on 10 acres with (409 sq. ft.) detached double garage with apartment above and a full bathroom connected to home by a walkway. Nice grounds surrounded by woods in area. Beautiful wood floors, huge rooms, and 441.5 sq. ft. outdoor metal building with room plus carport area. Formal and informal area, some new light fixtures. Contact The Nichols Family Team @ 251-621-1000.

Spanish Fort

$139,900 - 103 Dejuzan Circle, Daphne MLS#: 204285/258490 – Golf course home nestled on wooded lot in front and back. Has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 2049 sq. ft. of living space. Contact The Nichols Family Team @ 251-621-1000.

THE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CENTER, LLC 6351 Monroe St., Daphne, AL • 251-626-2050

$775/month - 1104 N. White Avenue, Bay Minette

$1,750/month - 301 Lakeridge Drive, Fairhope

MLS#: 204220/258421 - Very nice home with 2700 sq. ft., 4 BR, 3 BA, attached double garage, and is located on golf course in Fairhope. Contact John Siemssen @ 251-626-2030 or 251-445-8727.

MLS#: 203804/257964 – Nice cozy house in the heart of Bay Minette with three bedrooms, one bath, large storage building in back with a fenced-in backyard. Contact Brennan Chamblee @ 251-626-2030 or 251-510-5730.

$1,200/month - 103 Bell Circle, Daphne

MLS#: 204465/258709 - Very nice home with room for everyone on cul-de-sac with double, enclosed garage.

Contact John Siemssen @ 251-626-2030 or 251-445-8727.

17

18

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Flashback 50: December uThis month in 1963 From various internet sources

3.

The Warren Commission begins its investigation into the assassination of United States President John F. Kennedy. n The Romanian legation in Belgium is upgraded to an embassy.

Christophe Soglo, the military officer who took control of Dahomey in a coup d’état two months earlier, forces the resignation of former President Hubert Maga from the provisional government, suspecting Maga of involvement in an assassination attempt. n The United Nations Security Council unanimously adopts Resolution 182 relating to the apartheid policy of the Government of the Republic of South Africa.

The Seliger Forschungs-und-Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH demonstrates rockets for military use to military representatives of non-NATO-countries near Cuxhaven.

The rockets land via parachute at the end of their flight and no allied laws are violated, but the Soviet Union protests. n The bodies of Patrick Bouvier Kennedy and his stillborn sister Arabella are re-interred at Arlington National Cemetery, next to that of their father, President John F. Kennedy.

Tony Verna, a CBS-TV director, invents “Instant Replay” and demonstrates it during his direction of a live, televised sporting event: the 1963 Army-Navy Game played in Philadelphia.

Frank Sinatra Jr. is kidnapped at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe. n A lightning strike causes the crashing of Pan Am Flight 214 near Elkton, Md., killing 81 people.

4.

5.

7.

8.

10.

In the United States, the X-20 DynaSoar spaceplane program is cancelled. n Chuck Yeager, while testing an NF-104A rocket-augmented aerospace trainer, narrowly escapes death when his aircraft goes out of control at 108,700 feet (nearly 21 miles up) and crashes. He parachutes to safety at 8,500 feet after vainly battling to gain control of the powerless, rapidly falling craft, becoming the first pilot to make an emergency ejection in the full pressure suit needed for high altitude flights.

At the Gaumont Cinema, Southampton, the Beatles make the 34th and last appearance of their autumn tour of the UK and Ireland.

Died: Dinah Washington, 39, AfricanAmerican blues, R&B and jazz singer, from an overdose of barbiturates; she is found dead by her eighth husband Dick “Night Train” Lane.

The Saturday Evening Post issues its Kennedy memorial edition with cover

by Norman Rockwell. n Died: Nam Phuong, 49, former Empress of Vietnam (heart attack) Born: Brad Pitt, American actor, in Shawnee, Okla.

The New York Giants defeat Pittsburgh to win their third Eastern Division championship in a row. n Born: Donna Tartt, American novelist, in Greenwood, Miss.

Walt Disney releases his 18th feature-length animated motion picture “The Sword in the Stone,” about the boyhood of King Arthur. It is the penultimate animated film personally supervised by Disney.

A total lunar eclipse takes place. n The pilot edition of “I’m Sorry, I’ll Read That Again” is broadcast on the BBC Home Service under the title “Cambridge Circus.”

13.

14.

16.

18.

23.

25.

30.

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Boomers

Making the most of each day: Shots heard ‘round the world

By Deirdre Davison Columnist When you were a child, what did you think of during the month of November? I thought of my leftover Halloween candy, Thanksgiving, and of course Christmas; actually, mostly Christmas. After all, I’d been thinking about Christmas since June! By November, the pages of the sacred Sears Wish Book were well worn and many were dog eared so my mother would have no doubt of my heart’s desires.

When I was a child, I thought about playing, presents, Christmas, friends and candy.

My brother knew the make and model of every worthwhile sports car ever made and could speak a little bit of Russian. I could sing choruses from Carmina Burana and recite the names of our Presidents in order. We could both speak at length about the different branches of government, but had no real grasp of what they were. On Nov. 21, 1963, we were kids who lived a sheltered life and provided cheap entertainment at my folks’ cocktail parties by speaking Russian and singing in Latin. On Nov. 22, 1963, everything changed. We were kids who were hurled into fear and uncertainty along with the rest of America when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated with the shots heard around the world.

This day in history still resonates strongly with me. Someone can ask, “Where were you when JFK was shot?” and I can tell them frame-by-frame as the 8MM (My Memory) film starts playing in my head.

My mother met us at the school bus, but instead of her normal warm and loving smile, her face bore the weight of the world. Her eyes were puffy; her nose was red, and she clutched her handkerchief. She called us away from our friends and ushered us back to the house. It seemed odd that my father’s car was in the carport. He was never home from work that early.

The television was playing, but it wasn’t our beloved General Hospital; it was the news. My parents sat us down to share the historic news that President Kennedy was dead. While they spared us the gory details, they couldn’t hide their sorrow. Both wept.

Throughout the weekend, the television played and our young eyes were opened to the nation’s sorrow and the kind of soulful weeping that no child should ever feel. It was a sorrow that bore deep into my soul and has never been forgotten.

Granted, my sorrow wasn’t for the loss of the President. I was still too young to fully grasp its implications. My sorrow was for the loss that my parents experienced. With each tear they shed, I cried too. With each hug they shared, I squeezed into the middle of it. In actuality, my sorrow was insecurity

that grew from a lack of cognitive understanding. My sorrow was fear.

If this one distant event could throw my parents’ world into such a tailspin, how could I ever feel safe?

After all, we didn’t even know the president. He wasn’t part of our social circle. If someone could hurt him, they might hurt me, my brother or my mom or dad. I know the logic was terribly flawed. At the same time, it was the logic of a young and completely egocentric child.

That weekend was long. Almost as long as the time between saying “Good night” on Christmas Eve and finally being allowed to get out of bed on Christmas morning. Mom didn’t cook. We ate cold sandwiches and cereal. We went into mourning with the rest of the country.

I remember trying to escape the ever present news by turning on my transistor radio. Sometimes, on a clear night, I could pick up Canadian stations and stations with languages I didn’t understand. This weekend, even those stations were focused on the death of the American president. A pall had fallen over our house and the rest of the world.

Of course, Chaucer’s quote that time heals all wounds was true in our house. My dad went back to work and my mom started being Mom again. On Thanksgiving Day, my father toasted the Kennedys and the nation and had a momentary lapse into sorrow, but when my mother gently cleared her throat, he quickly snapped back to the joy that accompanies the feast of Thanksgiving.

We went back to being a family, and I started to feel safe again. My brother and I fought for custody of the Sears Wish Book. At night, I listened to the cool foreign music softly filtering up from the transistor radio under my pillow. My parents had their annual Christmas party, and my brother and I provided the entertainment. My brother quoted Anton Chekhov and I sang to the cheers and delight of our guests.

Life was good again, but would never be quite the same. There was now a new chink in the armor that surrounded our little kingdom. I wouldn’t think about it in this way until many years later, but each historical event that touched our family was a like a dent in my still forming armor and each event sent the armor back to the fire to be reworked. Over time, each knock would help shape and reshape the armor of my belief system — some giving and some taking. Each knock touched the soul underneath the armor and each knock prepared me for life. Each was worthy because each helped create the me that I am today. Different events throughout history have helped create my whole armor, the armor of truth and peace, the armor which I wear in the faith that our yesterdays will create a better tomorrow.

19

20

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

South Baldwin Regional Medical Center earns Top Performer on Key Quality Measures recognition from The Joint Commission

By Kim Neal South Baldwin Regional Medical Center was named as one of the nation’s Top Performers on Key Quality Measures by The Joint Commission, the leading accreditor of U.S. health care organizations. South Baldwin Regional Medical Center was recognized for exemplary performance in using evidence-based clinical processes that are shown to improve care for certain conditions. These conditions include heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, surgical care, children’s asthma, stroke and venous thrombo embolism, as well as inpatient psychiatric services.

South Baldwin Regional Medical Center is one of 1,099 hospitals earning the distinction of Top Performer on Key Quality Measures for attaining and sustaining excellence in the following measure set(s): Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Pneumonia and Surgical Care.

The ratings are based on an aggregation of accountability measure data reported to The Joint Commission during the 2012 calendar year.

This is the third year in a row that South Baldwin Regional Medical Center is being recognized as a Top Performer. South Baldwin Regional Medical Center was among a select group of 182 hospitals out of the 3,300 eligible hospitals in the nation to receive this distinction for three straight years. Previously, South Baldwin Regional Medical Center was recognized by The Joint Commission for its achievement on the following measure sets: Heart Attack, Heart

Failure, Pneumonia and Surgical Care.

“South Baldwin Regional Medical Center’s first priority is providing patients with high quality, safe and effective care through proven practices that improve outcomes and the patient experience. We are proud to be named to The Joint Commission’s list of Top Performers. The credit goes to our medical staff, employees and volunteers whose hard work every day makes this possible,” Keith Newton, CEO, South Baldwin Regional Medical Center, said.

“The clinicians at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center are dedicated to treating patients with established protocols to give them the best possible outcomes,” said Dr. Janet Hoffman, chief of staff, South Baldwin Regional Medical Center, said. “It’s an honor to have the standard of care we provide here recognized on a national level.”

Each of the hospitals named Top Performers met three 95 percent performance thresholds. First, the hospital achieved cumulative performance of 95 percent or above across all reported accountability measures. Second, recognized hospitals reached performance of 95 percent or above on every reported accountability measure where there are at least 30 denominator cases. Third, hospitals must have at least one core measure set that has a composite rate of 95 percent or above, and within that measure set all applicable individual accountability measures have a performance rate of 95 or above.

A 95 percent score

From left: Sharon Dunkin, director of quality and risk management, Keith Newton, CEO and Margaret Roley, CNO.

means a hospital provided an evidence-based practice 95 times out of 100 opportunities to provide the practice. Each accountability measure represents an evidence-based practice – for example, giving aspirin at arrival for heart attack patients, giving antibiotics one hour before surgery, and providing a home management plan for children with asthma.

“South Baldwin Regional Medical Center and all the Top Performer hospitals have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to quality improvement and they should be proud of their achievement,” Mark R. Chassin, M.D., FACP, M.P.P., M.P.H., president and chief executive officer, The Joint Commission, said. “We have much to celebrate this year.

Nearly half of our accredited hospitals have attained or nearly attained the Top Performer distinction. This truly shows that we are approaching a tipping point in hospital quality performance that will directly contribute to better health

outcomes for patients.”

About South Baldwin Regional Medical Center

South Baldwin Regional Medical Center is a 112bed, acute care hospital with 725 employees and has a network of medical clinics serving Baldwin County. A dedicated and experienced medical staff offers more than 32 medical specialties and the hospital offers services ranging from Baldwin County’s only Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine Center, Women’s Imaging Center, comprehensive digital imaging, a 24-hour emergency department, and a 24-hour, 7 day a week certified Urgent Care & Imaging Center in Gulf Shores.

The hospital has received numerous awards and recognition, including the Press Ganey Summit Award, Modern Healthcare Top 100 Best Places to Work in Healthcare and an “A” Hospital Safety Score by the Leapfrog Group. For more information, call 251949-3479 or visit SouthBaldwinRMC.com.

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Boomers

21

A fall festival of fun characters n Children’s Dance Theatre presents ‘Alice in Wonderland’

By Gina Lanaux

T

here is a very unique dance company in Fairhope called Children’s Dance Theater. It is the only one of its kind in the area, as the only company whose motto is “by children, for children.” The repertoire of the company consists of classic children’s literature brought to life on stage using dance with elements of theater to create an entertaining yet educational experience for audiences.

Where classical ballet performances can be long and sometimes hard to understand, Children’s Dance Theater productions only last one hour and make for an introduction to the art of dance for novices both young and old. The com-

pany prides itself on using many styles of dance in the program. To create the magic that makes for a memorable experience, CDT employs ballet as well as contemporary styles of hip hop, jazz, modern dance, aerial arts and whimsical special effects.

The dancers are ages 1318 and are accomplished in their skills as dancers who take class as many as four times a week and rehearse for many hours to make sure their performance is professional and polished. For the past 30 years, the company has done original interpretations of many stories including: “Where The Wild Things Are,” “Jack and the Beanstalk,” “The Princess and the Pea,” “Babes In Toyland,” “Cinderella,” “Pinoc-

chio,” “Peter Pan,” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” and “Carnival of the Animals.”

This year on Sunday, Nov. 17, Children’s Dance Theater is set to perform “Alice in Wonderland” at the Fairhope Civic Center. The show begins at 4:30 p.m. and tickets can be purchased at the door. General seating is $8 for adults and $4 for students. Ticket prices are kept low, as the directors want this event to be affordable for all as it is their mission to educate the community about dance and theater and give them the opportunity to enjoy quality productions.

Pagan Mosher, director of the production, says, “We hope the audience becomes excited about the arts, dance, theatre and literature, so that even a local production by amateur dancers on a modest budget can make a whole world come alive.”

Another mission of CDT is to maximize arts in education, by doing shows for local school children Nov. 18 and 19. Teachers are given a study guide, with ideas and activities to enhance the children’s experience. The study guide includes history, literature, creative thinking, problem solving, nonverbal communication and even manners for attending the theater, which teachers say they have found to be very beneficial in an arts enrichment curriculum.

Gina Lanaux, board member, says “The performing arts can change children’s lives, both behind the curtain, onstage or in the audience. We feel passionately about providing an outlet for students and children who respond to creative arts, with hopes that they will find their own way, with the arts being a catalyst for greater things.”

22

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Two Americans in China Individualism vs. Community

By Amanda Roberts Columnist When talking with older students (usually collegeage) about the differences between American culture versus Chinese culture, they tend to usually fall back on “Americans are more focused on the individual, while Chinese culture is more focused on the community.”

This is something that immediately makes my feathers ruffle because it shows just how little they actually know about Americans. While I don’t deny that each American cherishes his or her individuality, the way the students say, this is as though by being individuals people cannot also be community-minded, which I find very offensive.

But I bite my tongue and have tried to figure out why they believe this. Ever since the birth of communism in China, people have been taught that someone can’t be both an individual and part of a community at the same time.

I don’t deny that Americans are individualistic.

Individual rights and preferences are very important to each American and, yes, it is a defining characteristic.

But that doesn’t mean we aren’t also members of a very large (nationwide) community that we love very much.

As I mentioned before, Americans are the largest charity donators in the world. We wouldn’t do that if we weren’t trying to help local and international communities. We have community picnics and garage sales; we join church communities and build large community centers; we keep our yards and neighborhoods clean since we all share those communities; I could go on and on about all the ways Americans are community minded, but you are probably also already thinking of a million other ways. So

The Chinese value family above everything else, but do not embrace any kind of individuality. Children do not get to make choices about their own lives and must always answer to the older generations.

why do the Chinese think the total opposite?

Mao’s communism completely destroyed both the concept of individual and community.

People were expected to sacAmanda Roberts rifice everything for the party, even their own families. Parents had to hand over their children to relatives or even the state to raise while they devoted all their time and energy to the party. Family members were expected to turn on each other and expose them if they had any capitalist, imperialist, or anti-communist thoughts. Children and spouses were expected to hurl insults and worse in public at their family members for days on end if they were suspected “enemies of the state.” Anyone who had even an inkling of a thought that didn’t originate with Mao could be arrested for sedition. The women all cut their hair the same and everyone (men and women) wore the same ill-fitting blue Mao coat. There was no individual. To be an individual was to undermine and weaken the party and China. The Chinese sacrificed their individualism for a strong nation. Their only “community” was the communist state built by Mao. They continue to believe today that individuality is not compatible with community.

Today, the Chinese value family above everything else, even the state. This is quite admirable and very on par with how Americans view their own families. But they still don’t embrace any kind of individuality. Children are not given any voice or choices within their own lives.

When kids go to college, they often are not even allowed to choose their own major. Their choice of spouse (while not technically arranged) is highly influenced by their family. The children are not individuals, but only part of a familial whole, which is a very limited community.

Children are not given a voice until they are adults (which is defined by being married, owning a home, and having a child of their own), but they still must always answer to the older generations.

I have been going through a bit of mid-life crisis myself lately and realized just how much of my life was wasted doing what other people expected of me. I look at my students and am often saddened by the fact that they too will not realize just who they are as individuals until it is too late. It’s a vicious cycle that I’m completely powerless to stop.

About the Author:

Amanda Roberts has been living and writing in China for nearly three years. You can learn more about her and living abroad at her website TwoAmericansinChina.com.

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Boomers

23

Food for Thought: November Blessings

By Dr. Linda Mitchell Columnist I’m taking the month of November to do as the old song says, “count your blessings … name them one by one…” so I’m planning to name one each day via Facebook. When I started counting them I realized that 30 days won’t even break the ice, I have so many. My hope, my strong tower, my God, my Savior, I give Him praise. My best friend, the guy who always has my back, the smartest, funniest man I’ve known since kindergarten — my husband. Thirteen years ago I got a new name and I adore it…Nana. I have three — Lane, Jackson and Marin — and they are glowing lights in my life, a better stress reliever than the most powerful drug, and a blessing so over the top I can’t began to say “Thank you” enough. There’s a lady who shaped the person I am today, (it was a hard and challenging job, I’m sure, but she never gave up on me) my amazing mother. I better stop here or I won’t have room for recipes. I’m teaching a candy making class at ICC and talk about a diet buster…wow! I’ll share a few of our favorite recipes.

Tuxedo Strawberries

Dip whole strawberries in melted white chocolate. Allow chocolate to set. Then dip first one side, then the other with melted dark chocolate, leaving a triangle of white showing at the top. Using a toothpick dipped in dark chocolate, make two dots on the white section for buttons, and draw a bowtie above them. This is super easy, adds the wow factor to a dish and tastes delicious.

Grandma’s Handed Down Fudge Recipe 2 and 3/4 cups sugar 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate 3 tablespoons butter, plus more for greasing pan

1 cup half-and-half 1 tablespoon corn syrup 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1 cup chopped, roasted nuts, optional Grease an 8-by-8 pan. In a heavybottomed saucepan, combine sugar, Dr. Linda Mitchell chocolate, 1 and 1/2 tablespoons of butter, half-and-half and corn syrup.

Over medium heat, stir until sugar is dissolved and chocolate melted. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and boil for 3 minutes. Remove the cover and attach a candy thermometer to the pot. Cook until the thermometer reads 234 degrees. Remove from the heat and add the remaining butter. Do not stir. Let the mixture cool for 10 minutes or until it drops to 130 degrees. Add vanilla and nuts and mix until well-blended. Pour into prepared pan. The temptation will be great, but don’t cut until it has cooled and firmed up, about 30 minutes.

Apple Cider Caramels

(Soft caramels with all the goodness of apple pie rolled into one delicious bite) 4 cups apple cider 2 teaspoons sea salt 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes 1 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark depending on your taste preference) 1/3 cup heavy cream Boil the apple cider in a large saucepan, stirring often, until reduced to a thick syrup, between 1/3 cup and 1/2 cup in volume, (takes about 30-40 minutes). Line the bottom and sides of an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving excess hanging over the sides. Mix together the salt and ground cinnamon.

Once the apple cider has finished reducing, remove it from the heat and stir in the butter, sugars and heavy cream.

Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, return to medium high heat and let boil until it reaches 252 degrees, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat, add the cinnamon-salt mixture, and stir until smooth. Pour into the prepared pan.

Let sit until cool and firm, about 2 hours. Use the parchment overhangs to lift it out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Using a very sharp knife (a pizza cutter is my weapon of choice) coated with non-stick cooking spray, cut the caramel into squares. (re-spray your cutter as needed). If the caramels don’t disappear immediately, wrap them individually in waxed paper and enjoy for up to two weeks.

Candy Making Tip: Have all of the ingredients out, measured, and ready to go because things can move quickly when making candy. Stopping to measure could mean the difference between perfectly chewy caramels or a rock hard disaster.

24

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

‘Tis the season for giving: Christmas gifts book reviews

By Mahala Church Barefoot Writing Academy

Christmas brings great joy for many and a sense of melancholy for others. Disappearing inside a good book can be just the cup of cheer or soothing balm needed.

Curl up with a cup of rich hot cocoa, a cuppa your favorite tea, or a glass of good wine and gift yourself with one or more of these books: “This Year It Will Be Different” (Delacorte Press) by Maeve Binchy flows with the warm and enchanting magic that only a Binchy tale could weave. Her ability to hit the taproot of humanity and imbue each of her stories with realism will be sorely missed. From stepchildren, divorced spouses, angry inlaws, and aging, these stories aren’t dripping with sugarplums, but they will tug at your heart.

“Letters From Father Christmas” (Houghton Mifflin Company) by J. R. R. Tolkien shares the heart of a loving and creative father. Every December, Tolkien’s children got a letter stamped from the North Pole and written in a spidery hand. Colored pictures that only Tolkien could create accompanied each letter. A heartwarming col-

lection (pictures of original letters) that draws you into the lives of Tolkien’s children as they grow up and a father as he ages with snippets of the wars and changes in their lives aside from Father Christmas and the North Pole Bear. Share this book with your family for an intimate look at a simpler time, a time when we all believed.

“The Christmas Box” (Simon and Schuster) by Richard Paul Evans, a book as classic as Dickens continues to enthrall readers with its simple and tender story of a young couple who befriend an elderly lady, bringing Christmas into her home once again. While they help this special woman who reads her Bible faithfully every day, they young couple find a few surprises in their own lives.

For mystery fans:

“The Christmas Mystery” (Moyer Bell) by Jostein Gaarder brings the Advent Story to families in a unique series of snippets for each day from Dec. 1-24. Finding a mysterious Advent calendar left by a mysterious man in a tiny bookshop, Joachim convinces his father he must have it. Once Joachim gets home, the “Magic Advent Calendar” intrigues him with

its magic power. A delightful and new way to gather the family and enjoy the season.

“A Christmas Homecoming” (Ballantine Books) by Anne Perry. This book is only a Christmas book through the time of year for the story, but it has all the detail and enigmatic theme of Perry’s work. Familiar faces from Perry’s famous Charlotte and Thomas Pitt mysteries find themselves snowed in with murder spoiling the excitement of the season and family secrets abounding. A quick read for Victorian period readers.

“Hercule Poirot's Christmas” (Harper) by Agatha Christie is filled with the timeless Christie mystique we expect.

In this locked-room conundrum, the brash characters chafe under accusations of murder. Is it the newly discovered heiress, the valet, or perhaps one of the many who despised the vile man?

“Christmas at the Mysterious Bookshop” (Vanguard Press) edited by Otto Penzler is his 17th annual Christmas book, a collection of stories from famous American mystery writers.

Each story must be an original set during the Christmas season. Each story must in-

clude Penzler’s, New York Mysterious Bookshop. A true writer’s book that offers the opportunity to see pure creativity at work as each author approaches the task differently. Authors include Lisa Michelle Atkinson, Mary Higgins Clark, Charles Ardai, Donald E. Westlake, and so much more.

For romance fans:

“Lakeshore Christmas” (Mira) by Susan Wiggs brings a prim librarian and a recovering child star together to annoy each other as they co-direct the town’s holiday pageant. It takes an angel to get them on the right path in this delightful tale. New York Times honored this book with a No. 1 spot.

“Blue Christmas” (Harper) by Mary Kay Andrews was brought back by popular demand. Andrews’s familiar character, Weezie Foley, goes nuts trying to win Savannah’s historic district decorating contest, but when a bag lady starts stalking her, things change in a hurry.

“Comfort & Joy” (Penguin Books) by India Knight is a riotous romp with relatives rebounding off the walls. A fun read where you will no doubt find at least one crazy relative you know.

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Boomers

- $ - ! ,' &,*- $", *-

Dr’s. Cobb, McDonald, & Terrezza, O.D.

' (+'!,- ($ &),( - $(-#%# *-#%# -#" ,- ) +' + ,*- *- % * +'+*- +'+- $")*- '& ,)- ,+" -%+(,*- %- ,)&!+(,-%$ ", ,* ,)&!+(,*- ,)&!+&)

Crizal Live life in the clear

Progressive Lenses

Glare Free Lenses

™

25

26

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

An epic journey to recovery makes for enticing tales By theresa corbin Contributing Writer Local author Snæbjörn would not be where he is today without the therapy of writing.

“I suffered a severe stroke in 2005,” Snæbjörn says, “I couldn’t read, write, or speak for Snæbjörn almost five years.

I always loved to read when I was a kid, and I figured there was no reason why I can’t reteach myself … That’s how I started writing.”

Eight years after a severe stroke, Snæbjörn now has more to show for his therapy than the ability to read and write. Since 2005, he has published six books, “three of which were reviewed by critics, and two of them got good marks.”

In his most recent novel, “Forgemasters of the Realm: Elven Tomes,” Snæbjörn has created a captivating world of fantasy filled with dwarves, gnomes and elves. The novel follows these diverse characters as they navigate the world of man in search of a book that con-

“I took a lot of inspiration from history. My family moved to Libya when I was 3 ... so I would go and play in the amphitheaters and places like that.” tains all too powerful knowledge.

Born in Colorado, as a child Snæbjörn was fascinated by ancient writings and historical events.

Snæbjörn’s passion for all that is ancient began when he lived in North Africa.

“I took a lot of inspiration from history. My family moved to Libya when I was 3, and Libya is renowned for its Roman ruins. And back at that time, no one took care of them, so I would go and play in the

amphitheaters and places like that,” Snæbjörn said in an interview.

After Muammar Gaddafi came into power in Libya, Snæbjörn’s family was forced to leave. And his adventures changed at the age of 15 when he was transplanted to Iceland. From here, the Icelandic and Viking sagas and the rich folklore and mythology inspired Snæbjörn.

“The sagas from Iceland use a lot of dwarves and elves and gnomes … and so my books have a lot of influence from the names and heroes from the Icelandic fjords,” he says.

Influenced from his globe-trotting, Snæbjörn pulls from his passion for literature and adventure to write his books and to put himself on the path to recovery.

The world of literary fiction Snæbjörn talks about is a world that not everyone is familiar with.

According to the Literacy Project Foundation, 45 million Americans are functionally illiterate and 44 percent of literate Americans do not read one full book per year. Snæbjörn is passionate about revitalizing literacy rates.

“The world needs a boost in literacy rates,” Snæbjörn told prweb. com, “and fantasy fiction will not only stimulate reading, but also inspire a child’s imagination leading to a lifetime of creativity.”

By delving into Snæbjörn’s most

recent adventure, “Forgemasters of the Realm: The Elven Tomes,” you will get to narrowly escape a death and the destruction of the world as we knew it, travel through a portal, and meet wizards, mages and monsters. You will get to follow an archeologist as he travels in time, saves a damsel in distress, fights as a rebel in the civil war, and tries to save the book of knowledge from evil forces.

“Forgemasters of the Realm: The Elven Tomes” is a book that will leave you spellbound and will keep you guessing.

But as unpredictable as all that may seem, there is another unexpected twist: the hero discovers something about his own lineage that ties him to his adventure.

Like his characters who seek a book that will change the world, Snæbjörn, himself, has been on an epic adventure. His collections of books, his “tomes,” have had the power to change his world. Writing has allowed him to come back from a severe stroke. Now he hopes that his writing will change others and lead them down a path to literacy and to a life-long love of literature.

Snæbjörn is truly inspired and inspiring. You can get a copy of the spellbinding book on the official site, sforgemaster.com/buy, or at amazon.com.

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Boomers

27

Award-winning cookbook gives inspiration for holiday recipes

By Mary Johnson It’s time for southern cooks to start filling homes with delectable smells and tastes of turkey, ham, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, cookies and candies as they prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts. Just in time for the holiday season, favorite recipes of Alabama country cooks are available in the award-winning “Farming Feeds Alabama” cookbook.

“Farming Feeds Alabama” is perfect for cooks of any skill level. Cooking novices and experts alike will cozy up to “Farming Feeds Alabama” with more than 200 recipes, exquisite food photography and profiles of Alabama farm families.

“Alabama is blessed with dedicated farmers, diverse agricultural crops and talented southern cooks,” Jeff Helms, communications director at the Alabama Farmers Federation, said. “The ‘Farming Feeds Alabama’ cookbook brings these elements together in an attractive package that tempts taste buds and inspires learning. After taking one look at the cookbook, shoppers will want to add it to their own cookbook collections, and they’re sure to find recipes that will become family holiday traditions.”

“Farming Feeds Alabama” includes classic holiday recipes like Pumpkin Chiffon Pie from Delle Bean of Calhoun County and Cornbread Dressing from Gloria Jeffcoat of Houston County. It also shows the versatility of Alabama’s

best cooks with recipes like Sweet Potato Cookies from Terri Gilley of Cullman County and Squash Croquettes from Jeannie Hollinger of Wilcox County.

Cookbooks are $25, plus sales tax and shipping, and are available at FarmingFeedsAlabama.com.

Federation members receive a $3 discount with membership number.

Farming Feeds Alabama is published by the Alabama Farmers Federation, an affiliate of the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) and the state’s largest farm organization with more than 365,000 members. The cookbook was named “Best Communications Tool” in the nation by AFBF. Find select pictures and recipes on the Alabama Farmers Federation Pinterest page at pinterest.com/AlfaFarmers/farming-feeds-alabama.

Sample recipe:

Sweet Potato Cake with Cream Cheese Icing from the kitchen of Tammy Doughty, Pickens County Ingredients Cake • 2 cups sugar • 4 eggs • 1 1/2 cups oil • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 2 tablespoons cinnamon • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 2 cups sweet potatoes, grated Icing

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter • 1 cup (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened • 2 cups powdered sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla • 1 cup pecans, chopped Instructions Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, mix together sugar, eggs and oil. Add remaining ingredients one at a time, adding potatoes last. Coat 3 round 9-inch baking pans or 1 sheet cake pan with a nonstick spray. Spread batter into pans. Bake in round pans for 25 minutes or in a sheet cake pan for 35 minutes.

Insert a toothpick in the center to determine doneness. Cool in pans before turning out for frosting. To make icing, cream together butter and cream cheese.

Add remaining ingredients, and mix well. Spread on cooled cake, spreading between layers and on sides and top for round layers or over the top and sides of a sheet cake. Makes 12-16 servings.

Fun Facts

• Alabama is tied with Arkansas for fifth place in national sweet potato production.

• Alabama farmers produce an average of 48 million pounds of sweet potatoes annually.

• Baldwin and Cullman counties lead the state in sweet potato production • Sweet potatoes contain virtually no fat, are low in sodium and are a good source of Vitamin E.

28

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Spotlight — Veteran’s Day was Nov. 11 Holocaust survivor shares insights for living a life that matters

By Karen Hurt Holocaust survivor Ben Lesser doesn’t want you to feel sorry for him.

He wants you to be inspired by his experiences to live your best life. He shares his story in the book, “Living a Life that Matters: From Nazi Nightmare to American Dream.”

“As a Holocaust survivor who went on to live a happy, loving and productive life, I wanted to honor those who did not survive by creating an engaging, educational and inspiring book that shows history from a personal perspective,” Lesser says.

After he was liberated from Dachau, a concentration camp in Germany, Lesser came to the United States, where he eventually learned English, gained his real estate broker’s license and became a successful businessman.

He wants others to know that he found success because he chose to not dwell on the obstacles and chose to focus on attaining his dreams instead.

“We can choose to confront obstacles instead of letting them stop us from attaining our dreams. We can choose to live a life that matters,” he says.

Lesser also did not let age stop him from achieving. Today, he is retired and spends his time sharing his personal story and educating students and adults about the events of the Holocaust.

“With 17 years of speaking experience, I know the questions that students and adults have, so I included the answers in my book,” he adds.

Lesser also started Papa Ben’s Kitchen, a business that makes and sells traditional Eastern European cookies known as Mandelbroyt. Lesser learned to bake from his father, who sold baked goods to support the family during a portion of World War II. Because of his Holocaust experiences, Lesser has also created the Zachor Holocaust Remembrance Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports Holocaust education, remembrance and tolerance of all people.

“We must take action to assure that the lessons of the Holocaust are not forgotten — and that people are inspired to work against oppression.” Lesser says. “Whether a bully is in a family, a schoolyard or the head of government, it must be stopped — the earlier the

better — bystanders must not remain silent.”

“Living a Life that Matters: From Nazi Nightmare to American Dream” is an extension of Lesser’s life and an inspiration that anything is possible when someone chooses to focus on the positive.

Lesser’s book is available in: softcover, $22.99; hardcover, $39.95; and e-book, $3.99. It is approximately 370 pages and is available at amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com.

About the author

Ben Lesser is a Holocaust survivor who was liberated from a concentration camp at age 16. He later came to America, where he became a successful realtor. Following his retirement, he has devoted his life to providing Holocaust Education to schools as well as religious and community groups. A devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Ben Lesser is also a successful entrepreneur.

He is the Ben of Papa Ben’s Kitchen, a Mandelbroyt cookie company, and the founder of the Zachor Holocaust Remembrance Foundation.

USA Baldwin County offers Civil Rights and Justice course this spring By cathi jones The University of South Alabama Baldwin County is offering a special topic course, Civil Rights and Justice, in the spring 2014 semester. The course will provide students with a history of the Civil Rights Movement in the South from 1954-1965, as well as explore the judicial process and the role of the courts in the Civil Rights Movement.

This course will be taught by Dr. Ed Lamonte, adjunct professor of political science at USA. Students will examine contemporary issues, related to employment, political representation and especially education, which reflect our country’s continuing struggle with the issues of human rights, civil rights and justice.

Throughout the entire term, the ongoing theme will be the topic of leadership, as specific leaders are identified and various types of leadership are considered.

Finally, students will explore ways in

which individual citizens today can become engaged in addressing concerns related to civil rights and justice.

“This course has special meaning for me because it allows me to combine my life experience with academic material to explore the Civil Rights Movement and topics related to civil and human rights questions of our day,” Lamonte said.

Lamonte was in Birmingham during the summer of 1964 and then from June 1965-August 1966 working at Miles College. Miles College is a historically black college that played a major role in Birmingham’s civil rights activities — especially during the time when Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was leading demonstrations in the city and trying to resolve long standing problems related to segregation and blatant racial discrimination.

“I bring to the classroom a commitment to have this course equip students with resources with which to face the

complexities of today’s multi-racial and multi-ethnic society,” Lamonte said.

About the professor

Lamonte attended graduate school at the University of Chicago and returned to Birmingham and the University of Alabama in Birmingham in fall, l969. He served as the chief of staff for Birmingham’s first African-American mayor, Richard Arrington, Jr. During his eight years serving for Mayor Arrington, Lamonte worked on the development of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, and later served as president of its board of directors.

About USA Baldwin County

University of South Alabama Baldwin County continues to serve the growing demands of students in the southern part of the state since 1986.

For more information or to register for this program, visit myusabc.com or call 251-928-8133.

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Boomers

29

Navy Week sets sail toward the port of Mobile in 2014 America’s Navy is coming home to Mobile in 2014, as one of six cities selected to host a Navy Week, one of the Navy’s signature outreach programs.

Mobile Navy Week is scheduled for Aug. 4-10, 2014, coincident with the city’s 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Mobile Bay, and is designed to give area residents an opportunity to learn about the Navy, its people and its importance to national security and prosperity. The Navy plans to include the following elements in the week-long celebration: n “Leap Frogs,” The Navy Parachute Team n Visiting U.S. Navy Ship(s) n Navy Divers and/or Navy Explosive Ordinance Disposal teams n Sailors from USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world n Navy Band musical performances n Admirals and other senior Navy leaders, who will engage with local corporate, civic, government and education leaders n Navy simulator(s) and other interactive displays n Visits to area schools n Community service projects and events with local sports franchises n Visits with local veterans Since 2005, the Navy Week program has served as the Navy’s signature outreach effort into areas of the country which do not have a significant Navy presence, with 148 Navy Weeks being held in 62 different U.S. cities.

“Navy Weeks are designed to help Americans understand that their Navy protects and defends America on the world’s oceans, that their Navy is deployed around the world around the clock, and is ready to defend America at all times,” Cmdr. Kim Marks, director of the

Navy Office of Community Outreach, which plans and executes the Navy Week program, said. “Because the Navy is concentrated primarily on both coasts, we’re challenged to communicate our mission away from fleet concentration areas. That’s where the Navy Week program comes in.”

Navy Weeks focus a variety of outreach assets, equipment and personnel on a single city for a week-long series of engagements with key influencers and organizations representing all sectors of the market. During a Navy Week, 75-100 outreach events are coordinated with corporate, civic, government, education, media, veterans, community service and diversity organizations in the city.

The Navy Week program returns following a year in which sequestration and its impact on outreach spending forced the program to be suspended. Pentagon officials announced a plan Oct. 18 that enables the military services to resume conducting community and public outreach activities in 2014, albeit at a significantly reduced capacity.

“Community and public outreach is a crucial Departmental activity that reinforces trust and confidence in the United States Military and in its most important asset — people,” Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said in an internal memorandum to service chiefs and other military leaders. “These proactive engagements showcase our superior combat power, demonstrate readiness to defend the nation, and help to preserve the all-volunteer force.”

Other cities selected to host a 2014 Navy Week include: Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas; St. Louis, Mo.; Pittsburgh, Penn.; Omaha, Neb.; and Baltimore, Md..

For more information about 2014 Mobile Navy Week, contact Mr. Gary Ross, 901-874-7069, gary.j.ross@navy. mil.

30

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Precision Imaging in Gulf Shores welcomes

Lance Knecht, MD to its staff

by JANE TYLER If you see a new face among the staff at Precision Imaging, it’s that of Lance Knecht, MD. Dr. Knecht is a board certified radiologist who comes to our coastal area via Clearview Regional Medical Center in Monroe, Ga. and Del Sol Hospital in El Paso, Texas.

He is an experienced diagnostic radiologist who will work closely with referring physicians and interventional radiologists. His most recent tenure involved practicing in a high volume hospital setting with their trauma center.

Dr. Jason Williams, founder and owner of Precision Imaging, said “We are really pleased to add Dr. Knecht to our staff. With another board certified radiologist on hand, diagnostic readings can be performed in a more timely manner allowing us additional opportunities for interventional procedures. Dr. Knecht and I have a prior association having studied and practiced together in the Radiology Department at the University of South Alabama in Mobile. Having already established a compatible relationship has allowed us to immediately introduce Dr. Knecht to the daily operation of our facility.”

Dr. Knecht joined the staff at one of the busiest times of year for Precision Imaging, October…Breast Cancer Awareness Month. To encourage women to have their annual mammogram, Precision Imaging again this year offered Mammo Parties on Tuesday afternoons in October. Women who attended received their mammograms, a massage, a manicure, refreshments and a rose.

As the only facility in South Alabama offering 3D mammography, Precision patients get a 2D mammogram, which is covered by insurance, and a 3D mammogram at no extra charge, compliments of Precision Imaging. Precision has been offering this service to the community since October of 2012.

Precision Imaging is a full-service diagnostic and interventional radiology practice located in the heart of downtown Gulf Shores. In addition to 2D and 3D mammography, Precision offers a 3T open MRI, 64 slice Siemens CT Scanner, Ultra-Sound and Bone Density testing, X-Rays and interventional procedures.

For further information, contact Precision Imaging at 1680 W. 2nd St., Gulf Shores, AL 36542, 251948-3420, PrecisionImag.com.

Dr. Lance Knecht, MD is the latest addition to the Precision Imaging team.

Mid November - Mid December 2013

Boomers

31

32

Boomers

Mid November - Mid December 2013

&

WANT TO LOOK AND FEEL YOUR BEST? GET YOUR VITAMINS FROM THE BEST! mediStat Pharmacy—your everyday health and wellness resource—provides nutritional and mineral base supplements, vitamins, body care, sports nutrition and much more. Not sure where to start? Take advantage of our private consulting and educational programs.

Visit us today and learn about our “Custom Made For You” approach to your nutritional wellness.

Like us on Facebook!

Or visit us on the web at mediStat.com

110 E. Azalea Ave • Foley, AL 36535 (855) 737.2550