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Dr. Blake Raggio, Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon

The Anatomy of Facial Aging What’s Happening to My Face?

In November’s article, Cosmetic Surgery Amongst Baby Boomers, we discussed why more and more Baby Boomers are undergoing cosmetic procedures to reverse the signs of aging. This month, I would like to discuss the “Anatomy of Facial Aging” to better elucidate the causes of those bothersome changes we may experience as we get older.

The Certainties of Aging The aging process involves the complex interplay of several key elements including diet, exercise, sleep, genetics, environmental factors (sun exposure, wind damage), and tobacco use, to name a few. Despite our best attempts to alter these variables, the certainty remains— aging will inevitably occur. When it comes to facial aging, there exists several predictable transformations to the tissues of the face, which include the skin, muscle, fat, bone, and retaining ligaments.

Skin Aging skin loses key structural components which contribute to its strength (collagen), elasticity (elastin), and hydration (hyaluronic acid). Aged skin thus becomes dryer, thinner, less elastic, less voluminous, and more likely to wrinkle or sag, such as occurs with excess skin of the upper eyelids or the neck.

Muscle The muscles around the face and eyes may become more hyperactive and contribute to excess wrinkles or puffiness.

Alternatively, the muscles of the face may weaken and atrophy which contributes to a deflated look and decreases support for the rest of the facial soft tissues.

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Retaining Ligaments Facial ligaments provide structural support for the superficial soft tissues of the face. These ligaments, which originate from the bone and attach to the skin and overlying fat pads, weaken over time, and thus contribute (with the help of gravity) to the sagging skin and fat we see with aging.

tissues (skin, muscle, fat) also display noticeable changes such as hollowing of the eyes, temporal wasting, cheek deflation, and poor jawline definition.

Fat The most recent and relevant research regarding the anatomy of facial aging pertains to the understanding of the facial fat pads. In short, the facial fat pads are partitioned into separate compartments and exists in two distinct layers (superficial and deep), both of which contribute to the overall balance of the face. In short, some areas lose fat, such as the cheeks and the temples, which creates a hollowed and deflated look. On the other hand, some areas gain fat, such as around the mouth and the jaw, which contribute to the so-called “nasolabial folds” and “jowls”.

Lastly, some fat pads become more visible as they protrude from their intended position due to adjacent structural defects, such as occurs with herniated orbital fat creating lower eyelid bags.

Overall, this errant redistribution of the facial fat pads leads to the creation or worsening of folds, shadows, and other contour irregularities which embody the telltale signs of aging.

Bone We experience significant loss of facial bone with aging. Without the structural support of the bone, the overlying soft

As one can see, the progressive loss of fat and bone represents a key contributor to the facial aging process.

Therefore, I often recommend revolumizing the face with either dermal fillers or facial fat grafting to anybody contemplating a facelift or other facial rejuvenation procedure. I can’t say it enough, but volume replacement is key!

What can I do to combat the facial aging process?

First, relax. Aging is normal and beautiful, so embrace it for all that it means to you. Second, one must recognize that the changes in balance, proportion, and symmetry associated with the aging face are unique to each patient, and thus a customized treatment plan remains paramount to achieve optimal results.

Next, you should consult with a physician who has specialty training in the area you are looking to improve, who may recommend treatments ranging from non-invasive modalities (e.g., botulinum toxin, fillers, lasers, chemical peels) to more advanced surgical options (e.g., facelift, brow lift, fat grafting, eyelid surgery, lip lift, rhinoplasty). Lastly, choose a surgeon whom you trust. There is nothing more important than the relationship you have with your doctor.

Dr. Blake Raggio Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon Jackson Hospital and Clinics 334-270-2003 RiverRegionFacialPlastics.com drblakeraggio@gmail.com

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BOOM!, The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine

Contents

December 2020

Facebook.com/RiverRegionBoom

Volume 11 Issue 5

You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”

C.S. Lewis

Thought Relationships Taste Inspiration

Humor Advice Health Community

“Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.”

Carl Bard

4 Brighton Gift Guide @ Vivian O’Nay! 9 Anatomy of Facial Aging What’s Happening to My Face? Dr. Blake Raggio 12 Publisher's Column 14 From the Ponies to the Links, Hospice of Montgomery

page 35

Merry Christmas, The Savior is Born

18 How To Make Charitable Distributions, Susan Moore

Features 24 Gift Ideas for Seasoned Citizens

16 New Book, “The Power of Positive Aging”

32 “Spoil Her Rotten” Getaway: Jeff Barganier

46 Hidden Truth: 2.3 Million Black Men Are Family Caregivers

48 Grandpa Chan and Grandma Marina, Draw for Their Grandchildren

Departments 34 This and That A few ditties of info

52 Greg Budell THE CHRISTMAS SHOES

22 Exciting Online and Outdoor Opportunities for AUM OLLI 26 Momma’s Garden: Gardening the way Momma Intended, By Willie Copeland 28 Few reminders to finish year

By Leigh Anne Richards 30 “NOT WORTH FIGHTING" Ask an Elder Law Attorney

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34 New Exhibit: Photography in the Digital Age 35 Virtual Adaptation A CHRISTMAS CAROL page 40

page 36

page 16

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page 46

37 BLOW UP II: Inflatable Contemporary Art 38 Eastmont Baptist Church Welcomes Senior Pastor 40 BOOM! Cover Profile

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page 4 page 32

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page 48

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50 Frankincense & Myrrh with Tracy Bhalla 54 My Christmas Giant Bertha Lazenby Knox

BOOM! The River Regions 50+ Lifestage Magazine is published monthly by River Region Publications, P.O. Box 6203, Montgomery, AL 36106.

The phone number is 334.324.3472. Copyright 2020 by River Region Publications. No part of this publication can be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Opinions expressed in BOOM! The River Regions 50+ Lifestage Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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Publisher’s Letter

The Gift of Time

The mission of BOOM! is to serve the folks of the River Region age 50 plus with information and ideas to inspire new experiences, better quality of life and new beginnings.

Publisher/Editor Jim Watson, 334.324.3472

Jim Watson, Publisher jim@riverregionboom.com

jim@riverregionboom.com

Contributing Writers Jeff Barganier Tracy Bhalla Rodney Brooks Greg Budell

Willie Copeland Bertha Lazenby Knox Dot McDaniel Susan Moore Julie Pfitzinger Leigh Anne Richards Raley L. Wiggins

Cover Photography Total Image Portraits www.totalimage.com

Advertising

Jim Watson, 334.324.3472 jim@riverregionboom.com

Please Recycle This Magazine, Share with a Friend!

Did you ever receive a gift that was as good as it gets? I have. Recently, I shared a weekend camping trip with my 2 sons, James, and Jason and my three grandsons, Knox, Will and Aaron, all young men. We left early on a Friday morning to our destination of Murphy, NC and the Nantahala National Forest. We pitched our huge family sized tent along the Nantahala River, a perfect setting to begin the process of engaging with each other in ways we have done before, only this time we did it in the middle of a forest, along a mountain river, around a camp fire.

The gift is the moments we shared. The conversation, the debates, the laughter. Not rare in my family but for these 3 days it was unbridled engagement, listening to one another share their ideas, philosophy, and dreams. As the old man in the group, I probably experienced more joy than my sons and grandsons because I know moments like these are rare. And rarer as we age. I will savor the memories of this moment and hopefully many more. We plan to make this an annual pilgrimage. The gift of time with those you love is as good as it gets. Thanks for sharing a few days boys.

This month’s cover profile is a woman who has seen more collectibles and odds and ends than any woman would probably ever want to see. But it’s her business to know what people are trying to sell to the hundreds of people who walk into Eastbrook Antique Flea Market. Her name is Dot McDaniel and she’s the founder and owner of the River Region’s largest collection of antiques, collectibles and whatever you can imagine, under one roof. Dot started Eastbrook Flea Market back in 1994 and has nurtured the collection of vendors to create a unique shopping experience for both young and old. I hope you’ll enjoy getting to know Dot as much as I have.

We have more good reads to experience like our favorite travel writer, Jeff Barganier, embarking on a “spoil her rotten” getaway with his wife Cindy. Men pay close attention to Jeff this month, he may be on to something! We also have a feature about South Korean grandparents who draw for their grandchildren, and the world through Instagram. They are quite the sensation at 78 years old! For the gift giving needs we share some ideas for all those seasoned citizens in your life. They’re definitely a fun group to buy gifts for if you give it a little thought, hope you find some ideas.

Greg Budell shares another one of his great stories about Christmas and it’s one of his best, a special treat this month. Once again, we welcome Dr. Blake Raggio’s column this month from River Region Facial Plastics who helps us understand The Anatomy of Facial Aging. Many of us will appreciate Dr. Raggio’s expertise, especially my beautiful wife Sandy. There are plenty more reading experiences, I hope you’ll enjoy and share with others.

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I’m saddened by the news that Leigh Anne Richards has written her last Fitness over Fifty column for us this month. Of course, it’s full of good tips and ideas to apply for better health, as only Leigh Anne can share. Leigh Anne is a friend to me and has been a most valuable writer and most importantly, an excellent communicator of the need to Get up and MOVE! You have motivated us all over the past eight years, you will be missed. Thanks for sharing your enthusiasm for exercise!

Our advertisers are a valuable part of the 50+ community, they know your needs and want to help you with solutions to improve your quality of life. Please reach out to them and mention BOOM! Also, if you still haven’t signed up for our digital subscription please go to www.riverregionboom.com and check it out. It’s the new way to read and share BOOM! Enjoy this month's issue of BOOM!, we made it for you. Hope you get the gift of time this Holiday, have a Merry Christmas!

Jim 334.324.3472 cell/text jim@riverregionboom.com

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From the Ponies to the Links, Hospice of Montgomery Raises Funds to Care for Hurting Families Breaking from tradition for the first time in years, local non-profit agency, Hospice of Montgomery (HOM), considering the safety of its supporters and staff, chose to trade the ponies for the links for this year’s primary fundraiser. “Of course, we were disappointed that circumstances didn’t allow us to host our traditional Kentucky Derby this year—our supporters look forward to it every year. However, we were very excited to offer seasoned and amateur golfers the opportunity to play a round of golf on a challenging and picturesque course on a beautiful fall day for a great cause,” said HOM Executive Director Jenille Ball.

On October 16, 2020, golfers and fans gathered at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Capitol Hill, in Prattville, for lunch and a golf tournament. There was much chatter surrounding golfing prowess as teams gathered around 11:00 a.m. Juicy hamburgers with all the trimmings, chips, cookies, and drinks were the perfect fuel to start the golfers off with high energy. HOM board members and volunteers helped welcome and register guests. “We have wonderful volunteers who helped promote the event, gather door prizes and made themselves available to do whatever was needed,” said Volunteer Coordinator Jan Niel.

Ninety-six golfers registered to hit the links at 1:00 p.m. The foursomes played the 18-hole Senator Course, named among the Top 10 New Courses in the nation by Golf Magazine. The game, referred to as

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best ball, made it even more exciting as team members competed against one another. “We all had a great time. It was so much fun,” said HOM Board President Jason Bryant. Of course, competition was keen among all players as a hole-in-one on Hole Number 2 promised a dividend of $10,000, and on Hole Number 16, $500. “Unfortunately, no one was able to cash in on these rewards,” said Bryant.

“We could not have the success we have without our sponsors and golfers,” said Tournament Director Julia Wilson. “We are so appreciative of each one of them.”

Hospice of Montgomery has offered services in the River Region for 40 years.

It is the only nonprofit Hospice in Montgomery, the first to be established in the state, and one of the first in the country. It exists to offer loving, caring medical care for the seriously ill, bereavement and grief counseling, as well as caregiver relief for families regardless of their ability to pay.

In addition, there were team and individual prizes. Gathering for the awards ceremony after a lovely day of golf, golfers and guests enjoyed the amazing view of a course dotted with green hills Susan Kim teeing off and beautiful white sand traps. Bryant, emcee for I am a board member the awards ceremony, began calling names because of the excellent care Hospice of of the winners as guests enjoyed drinks Montgomery provided for my husband as and snacks on the expansive veranda. The our family navigated the heart-breaking winning team, featuring golfers Michael and scary issues related to Alzheimer’s McNair, Thomas Glover, Adam Rogers, Disease,” said Jeanie Holloway. “We and Major Lee, was sponsored by Brandt couldn’t have asked for anyone more McDonald and Mike Barranco. Second professional, more caring, or more place team included Jeff Dunn, Gene Cody, accessible. Our family will be forever Chet Marshall, and Britt Barley, who were grateful to this staff and this excellent sponsored by Synovus Bank. Sponsored agency.”

by Jackson Hospital, the team of Edward Crowell, Billy Saliski, Dave Ralston, and If you or someone you know has questions Peter Hill came in third. Coming closest about hospice care, please call HOM at 334 to the pin were Don Cluck and Kim Davis.

279-6677 or visit The longest drive prizes went to Rob www.hospiceofmontgomery.org Thomas and Susan Kim.

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The perfect gift for anyone 50 or over, “The Power of Positive Aging” The perfect gift for the person over 50 (or even over 35) on your holiday list, “The Power of Positive Aging: Successfully Coping with the Inconveniences of Aging” (Quill Driver Books, publication date June 2, 2020) shows readers how to live fully and joyfully, even in the face of uncertainty, illness and death. Inspired by his successful battle against Stage 3 cancer, author David Alan Lereah, PhD, offers a wise, practical and fearless guide to dealing honestly and confidently with the inevitability of old age and illness. Americans live longer than ever — a full 30 years longer than they did a century ago — but our forever-young culture associates these extra years with chronic illness and dementia.

“The Power of Positive Aging” teaches that old age is an extraordinary adventure, not a burden.

“The Power of Positive Aging” offers a practical training guide to successfully cope with illness, aging and physical and mental decline. An easy-to-follow program of mental and spiritual exercises instructs readers in how to develop mindfulness and acceptance, along with strategies for pursuing a balanced life and seeking and accepting social support.

“The Power of Positive Aging” gives readers tools for both postponing physical and mental decline and accepting them with good grace when they come. Lereah urges readers to develop a positive attitude toward aging that will help us all treat ourselves compassionately, and he strongly advocates that older people unite with each other to transform an ageist society.

Available from bookstores, online booksellers.

WIN THIS BOOK

Text "I need the power of positive aging" to 334.324.3472 then you'll be entered to win a copy of “The Power of Positive Aging” 16 BOOM!

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How To Make Charitable Distributions from Your IRA

Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are a tax-favored way to make charitable gifts from your IRA while gaining tax benefits that might not otherwise be available. If you are making charitable gifts without using your IRA, your gift will probably receive no tax benefit. This is because most people no longer itemize their deductions, so any tax deduction is lost. Instead they take the larger standard deduction (plus the extra standard deduction for those age 65 or over or blind). Even if you do itemize deductions, the QCD still provides a better tax benefit.

IRA owners and IRA beneficiaries who are 70 ½ or older may transfer money directly from their IRA to a qualified charity and avoid any taxation on the distribution from their IRA. By doing this they avoid taxation on the distribution but do not receive a deduction for the gift. The CARES Act eliminated the requirement to take Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) in 2020, but you can still make a QCD from your IRA to a qualified charity like a church or university.

The SECURE Act raised the age to take RMDs to 72 years, but the QCD eligible age stayed at 70 ½.

The maximum gift that can be made is $100,000 per person per year. In years in which RMDs are mandatory, many individuals find it attractive to gift part or all the RMD requirement to their favorite charity, thereby avoiding tax on the RMD. QCDs have the effect of lowering your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), so they have the added benefit of perhaps lowering additional taxes on Social Security, Medicare surcharges and increased tax deductions, credits or other benefits that can result from a lower AGI.

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Financial Thoughts with Susan Moore

By Susan Clayton Moore, J.D.

Principal of Moore Wealth Management, Inc.

There are some detailed specific rules for a gift to qualify as a QCD, so make sure that you consult your financial or tax advisor prior to making the gift to make sure that it qualifies.

There is also another little-known provision in the CARES Act that affects charitable giving. The CARES Act allows a special charitable deduction for cash gifts of up to $300 for 2020. This is available even for non-itemizers. With the Pandemic, charities are hurting in 2020. As we approach the holiday season, please be as generous as you can.

Susan Clayton Moore, J.D., is a financial advisor and wealth manager with Moore Wealth Management, Inc., which has offices in Montgomery, Alexander City and Auburn. Susan serves over $170 million (as of 7.31.2020) in brokerage and advisory assets through Kestra Financial and has been a financial advisor and wealth manager for over 37 years. She is an Ed Slott Elite IRA advisor.¹ Contact Susan at 334.270.1672. Email contact is susan@ moorewealthmanagement.com.

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The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Kestra Investment Services, LLC or Kestra Advisory Services, LLC. This is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney or tax advisor regarding your individual situation.

Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/ SIPC. Investment Advisory Services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS) an affiliate of Kestra IS. Kestra IS or Kestra AS are not affiliated with Moore Wealth Management. https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures ¹Ed Slott and Company is the nation’s leading source of accurate, timely IRA expertise and analysis to financial advisors, institutions, consumers and media across the country. Ed Slott and Company neither sells nor endorses any financial product. Members of Ed Slott’s Elite IRA Advisor GroupSM train with Ed Slott and his team of IRA Experts on a continual basis. These advisors passed a background check, complete requisite training, attend semi-annual workshops, webinars, and complete mandatory exams. They are immediately notified of changes to the tax codes and updates on retirement planning, so they can help you be sure your retirement dollars are safe from unnecessary taxes and fees. Additionally, members have access to Ed Slott and Company, America’s IRA Experts, to answer any tough questions or planning needs.

For more information about Susan's daily/ weekly/monthly webinars and to register, call our Montgomery office at

334.270.1672

sarah@moorewealthmanagement.com

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,

Email contact is susan@moorewealthmanagement.com.

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Exciting Online and Outdoor Opportunities for AUM OLLI Winter 2021

For the 2020 fall term, members of AUM OLLI learned to ZOOM and registered for classes, lunch presentations, and bonus opportunities. All events offered during the term were successful. Although we prefer to meet in-person, we all have learned that we can continue to meet and learn. Because of current circumstances, the on-line format will continue for the 2021 winter term.

There is an exciting schedule for the coming term. Some of the classes and bonus opportunities will continue: the course with the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, gardening, the pain management exercise class, Brain Bowl, cooking with spices, and both book groups (one that meets once a month and one that meets twice a month). The book groups are bonus opportunities, and the others in the list are classes.

We will announce a schedule of lunch presentations later.

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We have some intriguing new courses.

Ann Linder will lead a course on the Poetry of the First World War, and Jim Barber and Herb Shivers will be discussing the Second World War. Nancy Anderson and several guest speakers from the theatre world will study the process of writing a new play and moving it from the page to the stage. We will also offer two outdoor courses: a weekly hiking course and a one-day outdoor course that will tour and study the land that comprises the AUM campus.

Because OLLI groups everywhere have had to convert to online classes, there has been an important new benefit: OLLI Shares. OLLI groups at the University of Alabama, the University of Alabama – Huntsville, Auburn University, and Auburn University at Montgomery post some of their classes to a list of courses available to all members at these universities. People who participated in these shared courses in the fall raved

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about the courses and the opportunities for meeting new people around the state.

The list of courses offered through OLLI Shares is continuing to grow. So far, we have courses from OLLI at Auburn on the AUM OLLI list for winter term: Rivers of Alabama, Europe in the Middle Ages, Whatever Happened to Folk Music II, New Books on Alabama History and Culture, and The Great Convergence: Connecting World Cultures and Heritages.

Become a member of AUM OLLI and take advantage of all of these learning opportunities.

JOIN TODAY! Tell your friends!

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Gift Ideas for Seasoned Citizens Digitize home movies and photos.

Feeling nostalgic? Scoop up those old home movies or old photo albums and have them digitized. This helps not only create an archive of the family, but it may also help rekindle some wonderful memories.

Ancestry tests. Want to discover your family tree? To go a little deeper into family history, you may want to give your loved one a DNA ancestry test.

Using a service such as 23 and Me, you can provide a kit and possibly discover more about the family. These are gifts that will endure and also inform future generations.

Wildlife and environmental organizations. Does your family member have a love of all things wild? Support wildlife organizations like the World Wildlife Fund. It has a program where you can virtually adopt a wild friend like an elephant, tiger, gorilla, or the option to give support to whatever endangered animal your senior has a soft spot for.

You can also make a donation to Heifer International. Your donation on your loved one’s behalf gives people in various communities around the world access to chickens, goats, and bees that empower families and communities.

Star registry. Stargazers in your life? For the astronomers or romantics, you can have a star named for them. There is an official star name registry that will log a specific star and give it the name of your choosing. Please note that this is purely

a gesture and your gift does not grant ownership to a corner of the cosmos.

Flowers subscriptions. Who doesn’t like to get flowers? For many, a fresh bouquet every month might be just the ticket. Subscribing to a service that delivers something fresh and a little different each month is one way to delight your loved one and put a smile on their face. If flowers aren’t the right choice, there are many options including foods, wines, beers, or a pampering service of some sort like a monthly spa facial.

Grocery delivery services. Who doesn’t need groceries? Offer to gift grocery delivery. Let your loved one skip having to go to the grocery store and sign them up with their local market for weekly or biweekly delivery of the essentials.

There are several different services, ranging from organic to budget to large corporate services.

Solar charger. Solar chargers are not too expensive but can be just what is needed should there be an emergency. For well under $100 you can give the gift of peace of mind should the power go out.

These devices work with iPhone, iPad, Android, and Samsung devices. These high capacity batteries can be charged by sunlight, USB cable from a computer, any indoor bright lamp, or through a wall adapter. Many of these solar battery packs are a little larger than an iPhone, and store enough energy to charge a smartphone or a tablet several times before needing to recharge.

Teas from around the world. A simple and sophisticated gift of a variety of teas from around the world is a thoughtful and lovely way to not only introduce someone to the world of tea but could also be a great way to make an excuse for a tea party with your tea-loving friend.

Be sure to bring the scones as well!

Personalized picnic table. A hand-crafted and personalized picnic table for those who love picnics is a great gift option that contains both a bit of flair and comfort. This gift offers a great way to take the gathering with friends outside for some quality time together as well as for some fine snacks.

Fitness mirror. A customizable video/ mirror that shows workout instructions from a wide variety of trainers and workout studios. Since exercise for seniors should be prioritized, this gift allows your loved one to focus on maintaining their physical health in a fun way! It allows one to see and learn an exercise program from the comfort of their own home. The benefit is that while watching the workout video, your loved one can see themself doing the workout at the same time. It is a great gift for the exercise maven in your life.

Give time and help out. Give the gift of yourself! If there is something that you know your loved one needs done or would really enjoy, do it yourself.

If a special occasion is around the corner, plan on cooking or baking them something special. Offer to come by and

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do a household project that they have not gotten around to doing.

Mastermind an adventure. Share time and experience. Get tickets for a special show at the museum that you know they like. Plan a picnic or a visit to your local observatory when meteor showers are expected. What is your loved one interested in? Take a hint from that and use your imagination to create a wonderful memory.

Gift basket. Make your own gift basket or order one to have delivered to your loved one on a specific day. These do not need to be expensive items. For under $50 you can send a delightful surprise anywhere.

Up board games a try. Brain games for seniors are a great way for your loved one to stay mentally sharp and entertained!

Personalized puzzle. Upload a family photo to Active-minds and they will create a puzzle with 13, 24, or 35 pieces.

The larger pieces are more manageable for individuals with cognitive decline.

Lacing cards. These are a great activity for those with advanced dementia who enjoy keeping their hands busy.

Music. Try a compilation CD from the decade when they were in their late teens through early 20’s. You may be surprised at the power of music in dementia care. A smart speaker like Amazon Echo or Google Home can be linked to a playlist of favorites, but consider what will be most easily accessible for your loved one or their daily care partners. Sometimes a very basic CD player actually gets the most use.

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Unique neck wrap. It is still possible to send some comfort during a time when hugging is not an option for so many.

A neck wrap filled with flax is a great option; it can be heated or cooled, or scented with aromatherapy scents that calm or invigorate. This is a thoughtful gift that will also soothe an achy neck.

A cozy robe or slippers. Given so many are spending most of their time at home a pair of cushy slippers or a snuggly robe might be the perfect gift for your loved one. They range in price but are an affordable and useful gift.

Loved Ones with Dementia Joy for all companion pet. These are life-like pets that move and make sounds like a real cat or dog. They are great for individuals with more advanced dementia who are no longer able to have a pet but enjoy the company of an animal pal.

Reminiscing books. Try 1950’s Fashion or The Splendor of Babies as another topic of interest. These are books with large, engaging pictures and limited to no text.

Washable paintbrush pens. These pens are low-mess and easy to manipulate.

The paint is contained in the pen and they have a large grip base. This is a perfect gift for creative individuals.

Games for the whole family. Give Connect 4, UNO, Scrabble, or PopThe River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine

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Master Gardener's Perspective

By Willie Copeland

Momma’s Garden:

Gardening the way Momma Intended OK, it’s the year 1972, in the small town of Brundidge, Alabama, Galloway Road to be exact, is where you can find Momma’s house.

Positioned on a corner lot, and boasting more land than our previous residence, Momma’s house is where I got my first introduction to gardening.

After moving from a house with a small yard in a residential neighborhood, Momma started a garden. YES, a garden! Now LISTEN, Momma’s garden was no ordinary garden. SEE, Momma’s garden was a garden filled with collards, ice potatoes, peas, tomatoes, peppers, and a whole lot of love!

To say that Momma had a green thumb is an understatement. If Momma planted it, it grew! Momma had a way with soil, and due to limited financial resources, a deep heritage and generational connection to nature, and a need for a single mother to feed seven children; gardening was a way of life at Momma’s house.

I became an Intern and Master Gardener in the Master Gardener Program in Montgomery County Extension Service. What started as a pastime to keep a retiree busy, has now become a reminder of all the wisdom gained at Momma’s house. The Master Gardener program has definitely awakened a part of my history that was on “SNOOZE”. Gardening for me

is no longer work; but instead, LOTS of fun! Nowadays, I find enjoyment in “cruising” to Troy, Alabama EVERY Tuesday to experiment with double digging. I use a spade to remove topsoil, a spade fork to aerate the subsoil, planting seeds, plants, and buds. I have also created three 12 X 12 garden beds that are FILLED with ice potatoes, tomatoes, okra, and corn. Despite all this excitement, I can still hear Momma’s voice yelling out daily instructions of, “Get those weeds out of that garden, BOY…I’m not ‘gonna’ TELL you NO more!” Wise beyond her years, Momma set the stage, and left until inspection time.

It’s inspection time, and Momma is expecting to reap a harvest that will not only be plentiful, but COMPLETELY edible. In other words, according to Momma, “We don’t have food to waste!”

Having “apprenticed” under Momma most evenings after school, as well as weekends, I quickly learned Momma’s “secrets” to reaping a bountiful harvest.

Momma knew the secret to gardening was in the soil. Though Momma did not know the scientific name for what she was doing to cultivate the soil,

Momma was INDEED using the double digging method to yield harvest and to “merely” feed her children.

Double digging is a gardening method that is used to increase soil drainage and aeration. It involves the loosening of two layers of soil, and the addition of organic matter. Double digging is typically done when cultivating soil in a new garden, or when deep topsoil is required. On poor or heavy soils, or for vegetable gardens, double digging might be required every 3-5 years.

In other cases, double digging is only really needed on starting a new garden, or on total replanting.

Though gardening can be labor intensive, the reward is far greater. The major goal of all successful gardeners is to improve the physical and chemical properties of their soil, making it more suitable for growing plants. So, understanding the soil environment is necessary to encourage healthy plant growth and become a better gardener.

In essence, there is nothing more fulfilling than planting in season, and reaping a harvest in due season.

Willie Copeland, an intern in the 2019 Master Garden Class, lives in Montgomery. For more information on becoming a master gardener, visit www.capcitymga.org or email capcitymga@gmail.com.

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A few reminders to finish the year I am sitting at my desk contemplating all the columns I have written over the years. I think I started writing for BOOM! magazine in 2012 or 2013. I know Jim asked me to be on the cover in January of 2012 and it was not long after that I started writing the fitness column. Wow- 8 years.

Those are a lot of columns.

This will be my last column as the fitness writer for BOOM!. I have enjoyed writing over the past few years to share my general knowledge about fitness over 50.

I hope I have imparted some information that you have found helpful and useful in your life.

I have picked some of my favorite topics I wrote about and want to reiterate the importance of them The following tidbits are some of the key points I would like to leave you with as I close out my time of writing for BOOM! Sedentary behavior is the number one risk factor in developing cardiovascular disease, many kinds of cancers, as well as developing diabetes and premature death. It has become “the new smoking.”

Sitting or lying down are what we call

sedentary behaviors. Sedentary behavior requires little energy expenditure. If you

As you think about your workouts and your exercise routines, take the time to critique them and see if they are considering what you need at your age. Most of us think about cardio (walking) and that

by Leigh Anne Richards is primarily the focus. Cardio is important for improving cardiovascular health and regulating blood sugar. However, sit for 7-10 hours a day you are at risk for strength training is equally important if chronic disease. Sitting more than 11 not more for people over 50. We lose hours a day, puts you at extremely high 3-5% of our muscle mass per decade risk for developing chronic disease. How after age 35. By the time you reach 85, do I reduce the amount of time spent you will have lost 40 percent of your being sedentary? muscle mass if you do not strength train. Loss of muscle leads to a less • Stand rather than sit- your burn 30% independent lifestyle. more calories standing than sitting • Take walks during work breaks or lunch Even less thought about with our fitness breaks regiment is mobility, flexibility and • Set reminders to get up every 30 balance training. minutes when working at a desk • Invest in a standing desk Mobility is defined as the ability to • If taking on the phone, stand move physically or to be moved freely or easily. Mobility is often considered to be a general indicator of healthy aging Remember, even if you do some form of in older adults. New research is proving exercise for an hour a day, the remainder this even more. The Journal of the of the rest of your day cannot be spent American Medical Association published sitting. We must stay active during our a clinical review that points to mobility waking time.

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limitations as the litmus test for healthy aging. The review was conducted by geriatricians at the University of Alabama at Birmingham with analyses of studies published between 1985 and 2012 pertaining to mobility issues of aging adults.

Mobility limitations leads to a loss of function. A decline in mobility seems to quickly lead to an across – the- board decline, including the routine activities of daily living. Mobility is sort of a barometer for how well an older person ages. Mobility is the key to maintaining independence. Loss of mobility has profound effects on the social, psychological, and physical aspects of a person’s life.

• Lowers blood pressure • Lowers cholesterol • Lowers blood glucose • Lowers body fat • Increases immune system • Increases metabolism • Relieves stress • Boost mental clarity • Strengthens bones • Improves sex life

• And on and on.

As I say my farewell as a writer for this great magazine focused on the boomers, I leave you with these wordsGet up and MOVE! Leigh Anne Richards, MEd, Certified Personal Trainer, Group Exercise Instructor, General ManagerMetroFitness. For any questions or comments, contact Leigh Anne at LAMetrofit@aol.com

Neuromuscular training is so important as we age. This type of training focuses on performing exercises that that train the nerves to react and communicate.

A big part of this kind of training is to increase the individual’s awareness of proper balance and technique.

Unlike conventional strength training, neuromuscular strength training is aimed at improving sensorimotor control and attaining functional joint stabilization by addressing quality of movement while you are moving in all different planes of motion. Improving our balance is the key to prevent falling. Falling is one of the leading causes of death in the older population. Exercises that promote balance training is a preventive measure to keep us from falling.

Let us not forget the mental (psychological) aspect of what exercise (physical activity) does for us. During these difficult times we are going through, we need exercise more than ever to release those “feel good” hormones, clear our mind, relieve stress, boost our immune system and just make us feel better. Use exercise and physical activity as your “drug of choice” I always say if you could take a drug that did the following would you take it:

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Ask an Elder Law Attorney

By: Raley L. Wiggins | Attorney at Law | Red Oak Legal, PC

“NOTHING WORTH FIGHTING OVER” Who is going to get what after you’re gone? I often hear clients tell me they’re not worried about who will get what after they’re dead and gone because, after all, “they haven’t got enough to be worth fighting over.”

Well I’m here to tell you that there’s no such thing.

they see only what they want to see.

Even if a dispute doesn’t wind up in an expensive and public court battle doesn’t mean that your family relationships haven’t been damaged. So, what can be done to prevent it? Here’s my simple two-step recommendation for avoiding these kinds of disputes. First: have a plan. Second: communicate that plan to your loved ones.

planning document. Don’t count on other family members to “take care of it” based upon your conversations with them. Over time, memories fade, and people die—you must formalize your wishes in your estate plan to ensure that they are carried out. Not to mention the fact that these kind of oral instructions or agreements are not enforceable after your death.

Certainly, the value of your earthly possessions can have some After you have a formal, impact upon whether a written plan in place, lawsuit is filed regarding your now is a good time to Estate Planning and Asset Protection Workshop communicate with your estate. But forget about lawsuits for a moment. Let’s loved ones about why For more information and to register please contact our office just talk about good ol’ family you made the choices you by calling (334) 239-3625 or email Dana@redoaklegalpc.com. feuds. made. Start with your This educational workshop presented by local attorney Raley executor/agent, and then L. Wiggins covers wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance The root of these disputes talk with your children or directives, living wills, probate administration, protecting assets may not be about the other closest relatives. money or the property, If there is any property from creditors, bankruptcy, divorce and remarriage, nursing per se. Instead, it may be that is divided in a way homes, long-term care and Medicaid qualification. Registration is a feeling that one sibling that might be perceived required. For more info visit www.redoaklegalpc.com. took advantage of an ailing as less than equitable, parent’s generosity (or explain your choices to absent-mindedness) and your loved ones and give wound up with a vehicle, a them the opportunity to piece of furniture, or other heirloom that The first part is easy. Decide who you ask questions. When the time comes, was “supposed” to go to them. On the would want to manage your financial they will be less likely to read into each other hand, perhaps it is because the affairs if you are no longer able to do so. and every decision you made, because loved one’s last will and testament didn’t This person should be your agent under they will have had the chance to discuss treat everyone exactly the same, giving your Durable Power of Attorney. This it with you face-to-face. further credence to one child’s suspicion person is probably also a good choice to that their parent always loved their serve as your Executor to manage your There is no way to guarantee that brother or sister just a little bit more. assets after your death, although your your loved ones won’t fight over your executor and your agent do not need to worldly possessions once you’ve passed It doesn’t matter what the source of be the same person. Then, determine on. However, communication goes a the perceived slight may be. Once the how that person will manage your assets long way in avoiding hurt feelings and damage has been done in the mind of during your life (if the need arises) and misunderstandings. Now that we’re in the aggrieved family member, there may how they will divide your assets at death. the holiday season, take a moment to be no going back. The point is that after discuss your plans with your family while we are dead and gone, we can’t explain Next, decide how your assets should you’re all together and in good spirits. the choices we made during the estate be divided upon your death. Do you Raley L. Wiggins planning process. This often results in want any specific pieces of property to Attorney at Law, Red Oak Legal, PC loved ones “reading the tea leaves” to go to specific people? If yes, then the 334-239-3625 | info@redoaklegalpc.com 322 Catoma Street, Montgomery, AL 36104, draw their own conclusions about the only way to ensure that they get it is to www.redoaklegalpc.com meaning of every estate planning choice make a gift of those specific items of their loved one made while alive. Often, property via your will or other estate

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Travel Experiences with Jeff Barganier

“Spoil Her Rotten” Getaway: Auburn-Opelika

I want to get a jump on Santa and treat Cindy to a pre-Christmas, shoppinggetaway extravaganza.

But I don’t want to drive more than forty-five minutes. My solution? The friendly skies and faces of AuburnOpelika…where we courted at Auburn University and Jeff and Cindy at Zazu's, Opelika became engaged forty-five years ago. Get it? Forty-five years/forty-five eatery minutes. Anyway, here’s how I pull this that off: Mid-day, we drive to Auburn—fortyfive minutes. We cruise the campus/ downtown, noting all the great little shops and restaurants. Auburn is awash with students and a fair number of parents. We make the block once or twice before securing a parking place.

Much has changed over the years.

There are no longer individual parking meters but high-tech machines that even take credit cards! Construction is omnipresent. But underlying all the new is plenty of the old Auburn we knew back when. We walk straight to Toomers Drugs, steps away from where I purchased Cindy’s engagement ring so many years ago. At Toomer’s, I buy myself a butter pecan ice cream cone and ease across the street to the wonderful garden bench at St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church. I relax with my ice cream—that’s dripping on my pants—and watch people watching me.

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Meanwhile, Cindy skips in and out of shops: The Auburn Popcorn Company, Local Market at J&M’s, Wrapsody, Charming Oaks, Behind the Glass and Therapy.

Across the street, gregarious students form a long line at Irritable Bao, an

trusses that span the width of a gracious reception hall, wrought-iron chandeliers with amber-colored globes drop from the apex, and a stone fireplace creates a warm welcome. We check in, find our room and take a quick nap.

My lobbyist-brother knows all the best restaurants. He recommended Waverly Local in Waverly, Alabama, a short drive from Auburn and/or Opelika.

This quaint establishment occupies a building erected between 1890-1910 that once housed Alabama’s first Ford dealership. Model T’s used to enter and exit its green accordion doors where an original heart-pine ceiling and concrete floor remain. Its kitchen sits on the corner of three counties: Lee, Chambers and Tallapoosa. Food, drinks, and service

Marriott Grand National Resort and Spa, Auburn-Opelika

specializes in Chinese dumpling rolls stuffed with bang-bang shrimp or pizzalike yummies. Because the weather’s perfect, Hamilton’s is slammed with folks dining at outside tables. We’re snacking as we have early dinner reservations at Waverly’s Local. At Vignettes on Magnolia, Cindy concludes her shopping. I set course for the Marriott Grand National Resort and Spa! So far, so good.

are excellent here. We enjoy a leisurely meal of straightout-of-localgardens mixed-greens salad, steak, and crab cakes, and love it! Should make for sweet dreams.

The oak-lined drive to the resort’s entrance features attractive roundabouts with neighborhoods branching off here and there—a nice area for a morning bike ride. The Marriott lobby is beautiful: a vaulted timber-framed ceiling, massive wooden

Early morning, while Cindy’s still dreaming, I sneak out, grab my sonin-law’s very fast road bicycle and go exploring. I’m wearing shorts, a white V-neck T-shirt, and, most importantly, my exclusive, bright-red Father’s Day

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socks adorned with the faces of all my grandchildren. I swap my lizard-green helmet for a blue ballcap and traverse several miles before spotting another human. A nice lady out for a walk waves and greets me from fifty yards away. Must be a case of mistaken identity. Or perhaps red socks have that effect on people. Or maybe it’s simply the friendly nature of AuburnOpelika folks.

fire pit, gingerbread house competition, and brunch with Santa where every child is given craft supplies.”

We return to the room and watch Auburn football until Cindy’s spa appointment. Following her spa treatment, she’s glowing. And can’t stop talking about it.

chaise lounges, where you can recline and stay an hour or more, just relaxing.

It was beautifully done. It’s a beautiful spa and the best massage I’ve ever had.”

I’m racking up points but the night’s still young. We drive to Zazu’s in Historic Opelika and enjoy another delicious meal, encountering Pike Road friends celebrating an anniversary. Zazu’s delicious food is complemented by excellent atmosphere and conscientious service. Art, antique and gift shops are close by.

“They do a lot of different things,” she It’s our last day. We say farewell to the says. “The table they use Jeff with Emmalyne Phillips (L) and Marriott and drive back to Auburn for is the most comfortable Britt Ware lunch. Auburn cheerleaders happen I’ve ever been on, soft and heated. They to be on the lawn in front of Samford can raise the foot or the head to get you I shower and wake up Cindy for a late Hall for photographs. in the right position. breakfast at the Marriott’s Southern Cindy loves Auburn The face-cradle is Oak restaurant—great coffee, like cheerleaders—and thinks super big, making from Mama Mocha’s in Opelika! Cindy I planned this. She’s it easy to breathe. looks at me thoughtfully and says, “you now thoroughly spoiled You’re completely know, there aren’t that many places but not rotten. Okay relaxed. The where you can take the whole family, guys. Your turn. Let the therapist, Shahla, consisting of several generations, and master know if you have started out with a have something for everyone to enjoy. questions. Good luck and weighted, heated But you can here! They have different Merry Christmas! blanket. During the pools: a big one with a slide that comes massage she had For More Info: down through rock; the grotto; the me deep-breathe https://toomers.com sundeck with loungers in the water; different essential www.auburnpopcorn.com a splash pad; an adult pool with bar oils and placed www.shoptherapyauburn.com tables; an inside heated pool and hot heated towels on www.localmarketauburn.com tub, with the pool extending outside. different parts of https://mamamocha.com They have horseshoes, bikes, pickle ball, my body to relax https://zazuoplika.com tennis, kick ball, all kind of lawn games, muscles. She did a Waverly Local www.marriott.com/hotels/ a three-hole ‘frisbee-golf’ course. And scalp massage like hotel-information they have special kid’s events for all none I’ve ever had. Fabulous, so, so https://thewaverlylocal.com the holidays. At Christmas, they have good. Then, afterward, I loved that they www.magnolia.hamiltonsgroup.com story time with Mrs. Claus around the have two relaxation rooms with, like, Jeff S. Barganier is a freelance writer and manages Cindy Barganier Interiors LLC in Pike Road, Alabama. (www.cindybarganier.com) He travels far and wide upon the slightest excuse for something interesting to write about. Contact him at Jeffbarganier@knology.net. Follow him on Instagram #jeffbarganier.

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New Exhibit Advances Photography in the Digital Age

“Beyond the Photograph” artist Bob Corley showcases in Troy through-December 17

Morning Rush, a 12”x12"

Tying the Shoe

Monday 7 a.m., a 30”x30”

Local photographer and longtime Montgomery resident Bob Corley brings to life a new facet of photography with the exhibit, “Beyond the Photograph.” Fifteen pieces of Corley’s work will be on display through December 17 at the Johnson Center for the Arts in Troy, offering a captivating look at photography as Corley sees it in the digital age. “Photography has been recognized as a fine art for more than a century,” said Corley. “The introduction of digital cameras and editing software had an impact similar to the introduction of color film and smaller cameras, opening up a new world for photographers limited only by their imagination.”

In 2017, Corley shifted his focus from traditional photographic images to what he describes as “digital painting,” combining photographic skills with digital editing techniques. “Capturing an image is merely a starting point on a journey of exploration to look beyond the photograph. A digital camera is my sketch book, a computer and editing software my canvas and paints.” Corley’s work has been shown in juried shows and galleries in Montgomery, Auburn, Clanton, and Atlanta. Most recently, several of his digital painting were exhibited at the Photographic Days of Selma, an international celebration of photography. The pieces on display in the Kirk Gallery at the Johnson Center range from “Morning Rush,” a 12”x12” still life of coffee cups, to “Monday 7 a.m.,” a 30”x30” canvas of two men at breakfast in a Fairhope, AL café. Each image is printed using archival pigment inks on archival paper or canvas, and all pieces are for sale. The Johnson Center for the Arts is located at 300 E. Walnut St., Try, AL and is open Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. For more information or additional images, contact Sandra Polizos, 334-462-7285, or at spolizos2@gmail.com.

Wonderland Under Warrior, Holiday in the Cave

Join us at Rickwood Caverns State Park for a truly magical experience when we transform the cave into an underground winter wonderland. The cave is around 62 degrees all year long making it the perfect temperature to enjoy even on cold days. The gift shop will be decorated for the occasion and offer unique gifts, ornaments, snacks, and hot cocoa to purchase. Make your plans to travel to Rickwood Caverns State Park in Warrior, AL to see one of the most unique holiday traditions in the state. Each year, the cave is decorated with holiday lights and decorations so that guests can get into the Holiday spirit.

Wonderland Under Warrior runs through Dec. 30, running from 2 to 8 p.m., on the days it's open. The cost is $10 per person, and a complete schedule can be found on the park s website www.alapark.com/parks/rickwoodcaverns-state-park/wonderland-under-warrior or call 205-647-9692. Space will be LIMITED to allow for social distancing. Reservations are highly recommended! MASKS ARE REQUIRED!

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ASF presents unique, virtual adaptation of Dickens’ A CHRISTMAS CAROL Stream the classic — a one-woman tour de force starring ASF favorite, Greta Lambert Alabama Shakespeare Festival presents Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, adapted and performed by Greta Lambert, streaming digitally through December 27, 2020. Audiences will be mesmerized as one actor takes on many roles in this heartwarming production. ASF’s A Christmas Carol is the perfect way for families and friends to make the holidays unforgettable. Directed by ASF Artistic Director Rick Dildine, this holiday offering is a unique event during an unparalleled time for the theater. Although the pandemic forced the closure of ASF’s physical spaces, it has inspired the development of creative programs and events that continue to deliver the arts to audiences in this age of social distancing. Dickens was known for performing dramatic readings of his popular novella for audiences all over the world. Drawing inspiration from that tradition, longtime company member Greta Lambert stars in ASF’s one-person production of A Christmas Carol. “It’s both challenging and fun to play all the characters and narrate the story,” said Lambert. “I have borrowed from the many wonderful actors I’ve seen play all these roles. Hopefully, this version will make audiences feel like their favorite aunt is reading the cherished holiday tale to them.” This streaming production will transport audiences back to a magical evening in Victorian England to enjoy the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his encounters with Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. “As we approach the end of 2020, we wanted to share a story that has become a tradition for many, and there is no better artist to trust with this task than Greta Lambert, who has entertained audiences here since 1985,” said Dildine. “Over the past year, many of us have turned to beloved works and favorite tales for comfort.

A Christmas Carol is a source of comfort and a reminder that transformation is possible when one’s heart is open.” While enjoyed by audiences of all ages, A Christmas Carol is recommended for ages 7 and up. Tickets are $15 per household and go on sale November 26 at ASF.net/christmas. Tickets for A Christmas Carol are only available for purchase online; however, beginning December 3, the ASF Box Office will provide support via email and phone on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 12:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. CT.

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Local Financial Advisor Completes Advanced Virtual Training from America’s IRA Experts at Ed Slott and Company, SUSAN CLAYTON MOORE, J.D., FINANCIAL ADVISOR WITH MOORE WEALTH MANAGEMENT, INC. completed her semiannual training with America’s IRA Experts at Ed Slott and Company, LLC by participating in a virtual workshop November 5–6, 2020. The workshop, which was attended by members of Ed Slott’s Elite IRA Advisor GroupSM, provided in-depth technical training on advanced retirement account planning strategies, estate planning techniques as well as an in-depth look at how sweeping retirement and tax law changes under both the SECURE and CARES Acts have impacted financial planning in 2020 and beyond. “2020 has been an unprecedented year and with the significant policy changes we have seen under the SECURE and CARES Acts, these laws have had both a temporary and long-lasting impact on the way Americans plan for their retirement. With so many families facing early retirement or lay-offs surrounding the pandemic, carefully navigating Susan Clayton Moore, J.D. critical rollover decisions with a trained, skilled professional is more important than ever,” said Ed Slott, CPA, founder of Ed Slott and Company, AARP columnist and a nationally recognized IRA expert who was named “The Best Source for IRA Advice” by The Wall Street Journal. “I commend Moore for continuously prioritizing her education throughout this ever-changing retirement planning landscape. She is going above and beyond to deliver informed and accurate financial guidance to her clients in a time when it’s needed most. With this ongoing training, Moore can offer the latest insight on any necessary updates one may need now and into the future.” Moore can be contacted for more information on IRA and retirement-related questions.

Please call 334.270.1672 or email her at susan@moorewealthmanagement.com.

Christmas Clearinghouse, A Project of HandsOn River Region Have you ever wondered what children in need think when Santa leaves nothing for them under the Christmas tree? Since 1980, the Christmas Clearinghouse has brought HOPE to children and families in our community by coordinating and matching generous individuals with children who are in need of toys and clothes for the holidays. You can answer the WISHES of a child in your community when you partner with HandsOn River Region's Christmas Clearinghouse program. You can be a part of the magic that touches 10,000-plus lives and brings over $300,000 in impact to the community annually. Visit www.handsonriverregion.org/cch to support Christmas Clearinghouse and bring JOY to a family in need this holiday season!

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Mistletoe at Home-Alabama Dance Theatre’s gift to the community The Alabama Dance Theatre will open its 34th season, A Season of Radiance , with a virtual production of Mistletoe at Home on Sunday, December 6th. Viewers anywhere may join the celebration by streaming from home at no cost, as ADT’s gift to the community. In November, the ADT Company performed Miss Kitty’s Favorite Dances of Christmas, a collage of dances set to beautiful carols and songs, including classics like “I Saw Three Ships” , “We Three Kings” , “Wexford Carol” , and “Silent Night” and will be filmed and featured in Mistletoe at Home. More information about streaming Mistletoe at Home is available at www.alabamadancetheatre.com and on Alabama Dance Theatre’s social media accounts.

Free Subscriptions @ w w w.rive r re gio n b o o m.co m BLOW UP II: Inflatable Contemporary Art BLOW UP II: Inflatable Contemporary Art explores the medium of inflatable art with imagery that is figurative, conceptual, and abstract. The 15 large-scale inflatable sculptures, conceived by nine artists and art collectives from around the world, connote fun and whimsy, are familiar yet strange, and challenge the definition of art.

Here, in an unusual feat, artists use air as an active tool in their work to subvert our perspective and surprise us. Engaging humor, scale, and surprise, the artworks in BLOW UP II take us on extraordinary journeys by exploring subjects as varied as anime, superheroes, history, politics, and even our mortality. Holding our attention with wonder and delight, this unique exhibition—at once humorous and whimsical—creates a spectacular, immersive environment that allows for deeper contemplation. By harnessing the power of air, the ideas and possibilities in art making seem endless, and creativity is left to take flight. MMFA hours are Monday closed, Tuesday-Saturday, 10-5 pm and Sunday Noon to 5 pm. Explore more at www.mmfa.org

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Eastmont Baptist Church of Montgomery Welcomes New Senior Pastor Rev. Frank M. Bowling has been selected as Senior Pastor of Eastmont Baptist Church in Montgomery. He will begin his ministry at Eastmont on December 1, 2020. Frank comes to Eastmont with more than twenty years of ministerial experience. For the past fourteen years, Frank has served as Senior Pastor of Medina First Baptist Church in Medina, TN. “We are thankful for Pastor Frank’s passion for teaching God’s word, as well as his heart for missions and the local church body,” said Brian Key, chairman, Eastmont Pastor Search Committee. “The Eastmont family is looking forward to Frank building on the strong foundation built by other ministers at Eastmont.” Frank received his undergraduate degree from Middle Tennessee State University and has completed his Master of Divinity with Biblical Languages from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is currently pursuing his Doctorate of Ministry with a concentration in Evangelism and Missions from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. “I am excited about the opportunity to serve Eastmont and the River Region area,” said Frank Bowling. “Gina and I are convinced the church of the 21st century must seek to make disciples whose lives are being transformed by the power of the Gospel rather than the therapeutic influences of our day.” Frank and his wife, Gina, have been married for 23 years and have three children, Emma (16), Eliza (13), and Joseph (6).

Fourteenth Colony: The Forgotten Story of the Gulf South During America's Revolutionary Era British West Florida—which once stretched from the mighty Mississippi to the shallow bends of the Apalachicola and portions of what are now the states of Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana—is the forgotten fourteenth colony of America's Revolutionary era. The area's eventful years as part of the British Empire form an overlooked but important interlude in our American history which is corrected with the publication of Fourteenth Colony by Mike Bunn. For a host of reasons, including that West Florida did not rebel against the British government, the colony has long been dismissed as a loyal but inconsequential fringe outpost, if it was considered at all. But the colony's history showcases tumultuous politics featuring a halting attempt at instituting representative government; a host of bold and colorful characters; a compelling saga of struggle; perseverance in the pursuit of financial stability; and a dramatic series of land and sea battles that ended its days under the Union Jack. In Fourteenth Colony: The Forgotten Story of the Gulf South During America's Revolutionary Era, historian Mike Bunn offers the first comprehensive examination of the colony, introduces readers to the Gulf Coast's remarkable British period, and restores West Florida to its rightful place in the lore of Colonial America.Order directly from New South at www.newsouthbooks.com, 334.834.3556, also available at www.amazon.com

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BOOM! COVER PROFILE

Dot McDaniel, Eastbrook Antique Flea Market This month’s cover profile is a woman who has seen more collectibles and odds and ends than any woman would probably ever want to see. But it’s her business to know what people are trying to sell to the hundreds of people who walk into Eastbrook Antique Flea Market. Her name is Dot McDaniel and she’s the founder and owner of the River Region’s largest collection of antiques, collectibles and whatever you can imagine, under one roof. Dot started Eastbrook Flea Market back in 1994 and has nurtured the collection of vendors to create a unique shopping experience for both young and old. For many folks it’s the first stop when looking for vintage clothes or vinyl albums…and about million other things no other store offers. What makes Eastbrook Antique Flea Market so special is how Dot has made shopping with her vendors feel like a family experience, a sense of community. She sets high standards for the vendors who want to sell in her store and that leads to a quality shopping adventure for the many loyal customers she has created over the last 26 years. Dot has a created a special place in the Dalraida area of Montgomery, a place to celebrate community and pick up a few bargains or hard to find collectibles. Dot, thanks for making us feel right at home.

BOOM!: Please give us a brief biography, i.e. where you’re from, education, what brought you to the Montgomery area, did you raise your family here, schools, married, family, etc?

River Region’s oldest indoor flea market, Eastbrook Antique Flea Market at 425 Coliseum Blvd, Montgomery, AL. Please share how you started your business?

Could you describe Dot: I am from what Montgomery, makes graduated from Lee High School your business in 1964. Married so another Lee High Dot with one of four Great Grandchildren, Palmer unique?

School graduate, Gary McDaniel. We raised two What have been the biggest challenges in operating a children here, Karen - now married successful antique flea market? to Ragan Ingram and Cary --now married to Jennifer. We have 5 terrific grandchildren, Bo, Katie, Dot: We try to keep a family Ali, Holly and Emily --all married atmosphere here. You will not hear ugly jokes or talk here. but one. We have four super great We want to be totally honest grandchildren --Milo, Palmer, Elisa, with our customers. Vendors and Bonnie. are not allowed to put stickers BOOM!: You are the owner of the or price tags over a flaw, they should tell you it has one and

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put as is. We are a family here at Eastbrook. I have many vendors that have been with me since we started in 1994. We have watched their children grow and attend college. My biggest challenge has been keeping up with trends and prices. What was unique and saleable 10 years ago, is not now.

China used to be a big seller, but now is not. The young girls now are working and using paper plates or pottery dishes. It is a heart breaker for us "oldies" to see a beautiful piece of mahogany furniture, painted white!

Dot with husband Gary

BOOM!: You have been operating your business since 1994

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and your family has been very involved with the day to day operation.

Please describe the “Family” part of your family operated business?

Dot's son Cary, wife, Jennifer and their grandson, Milo How a collector important is your family to the of all things success of Eastbrook Antique Flea Joel Chandler Market? Do you and your husband Harris. I ever think about retirement? shop here every day. I Dot: My family is the base of Can't walk operations for this business. My the aisles daughter-in-law, Jennifer, has been without working here since 1994. My husband, Gary, works half days, my daughter, Karen, is totally in charge of Facebook Operations. All of my grandchildren have known since they were small that they had to work here. They all have until they moved away for college. My husband would love it if I left him alone to completely retire Dot's Great Grands, Elisa, Milo, baby Bonnie and I have no Antique Flea retirement plans at all.

Market?

BOOM!: Do you have a booth in Dot: 5. We your store? Are you a collector? are dealing How do you resist shopping in your with Covid own store?

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Dot: I have a booth here at Eastbrook and love to collect and sell merchandise.

It wouldn't be any fun to just do paperwork and run the front counter.

No excitement there. I am

okay. We sanitize everything from the counters, to buggy handles to the telephones and of course must wear the mask. We have put away the water fountain, my beloved rocking chairs in the seating area and the cookies.

BOOM!: What are you most passionate about?

Dot: Our Heavenly Father followed by my family.

BOOM!: How do you like to relax and wind down from a full day’s activities?

Dot: We have two English Shepherds that make Dot and Granddaughter Holly. us laugh.

(Dot loves her back porch and swing) We sit in picking up our swing on the back porch and something! watch them play with each other while we have our coffee or iced BOOM!: How tea. Then my red leather recliner have you been calls my name. dealing with the COVID 19 BOOM!: What are some of your challenges favorite travel experiences? Favorite personally? vacation spot? Any travel dreams With Eastbrook planned?

Dot: I am one of the weird ones that does not like to travel. But I guess my favorite trip was to Denver and the Royal Gorge. Loved that trip. And then, of course, Orange Beach!

Dot with photo of the Eastbrook Antiques & Flea Market

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Left Photo: Dot's daughter Karen in between her son Bo and his wife Emily. Right Photo: Dot enjoying a family get together, last Christmas.

BOOM!: As you’ve aged, how have your priorities changed?

is a big part of our lives, what’s your relationship with technology?

What role if any, does technology play in your business?

Dot: At the front counter we do everything by hand. I do this as a safety precaution. I know everyone's handwriting and can immediately go to that person if a mistake is made. Here in the office we transfer over to the computer and do everything else from there. And of course, we do rely on Facebook.

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

Dot: I like the people that I come in contact with.

I think we need more wonderful police officers to patrol.

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Dot's Great Granddaughter, Palmer

Dot: As I have aged, I am more of a homebody.

Things that I just had to have are no longer important. I am satisfied to be around my friends, my customers who are my friends, and my family and my church family.

BOOM!: Give us three words that describe you?

Dot's Great Granddaughter, Bonnie

Dot's lovable furballs, Gracie and Cassie RiverRegionBoom.com

way. That's about my only hobby. I do like to read.

BOOM!: Do you have time to be involved in community, civic or church activities?

Dot: I don't have time for community activities. I wish I did. If I have time for anything, it would be church activities and activities with my family.

BOOM!: How do you and your husband like to spend time with family? Describe your experience as a grandmother, what do the grandkids call you and your husband?

Dot: The greatest joy is when we can all be together. We are scattered from San Francisco, Dot: Loud, loving, Seattle, and Texas. So, when we and fluffy. can all spend time together, it's BOOM!: Do you wonderful. I was able to keep two have any hobbies or of my grandchildren when they other activities that were small. It was the greatest grab your attention? of all gifts. It just went too too fast! When they were all smaller Dot: I like to can and lived close by, we would shop, and provide that spend a week at the beach and just

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play. We are Nana and Papa.

BOOM!: What are some of the future challenges you’re contemplating for Eastbrook Antique Flea Market? For yourself?

Dot: I would like to keep on as we are but maintain our integrity and our honest way of doing business.

But in this world that we live in today and the future, it's getting harder and harder. But we are thankful for each day that comes!

We want to thank Dot for sharing some of her story with us in this month's cover profile. If you want to connect with Dot, go

by Eastbrook Antiques & Flea Market or call 334-277-4027. When you go by say hello to Gary too, he's usually at the front counter. A special thanks to James Watson for providing this month's cover photography. If you have questions, comments or suggestions about our cover profiles, including nominating someone, please send them to Jim Watson at jim@riverregionboom.com.

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Hidden Truth: 2.3 Million Black Men Are Family Caregivers

By Rodney Brooks

Former telecom executive Howard Woolley, who now heads a Washington, D.C.-based consulting firm, was the primary caretaker for his late wife, Gail, who suffered from sickle cell anemia. Jackie Greene, a Washington, D.C. consultant and former media executive, spent 18 months as the sole caregiver for his wife Marcia, who eventually succumbed to cancer.

bleeding on the brain, the result of stress, he said.

It wasn't until she died that "things crashed," and he sought help from support groups.

Yet, one of the biggest problems faced by Black men is that they are reluctant to ask for help.

"Not only Black men, but Black people in general don't ask for help," said Williams, who is African American.

Woolley and Greene are among a somewhat silent group of Gail and Howard Woolley at a Syracuse University reunion in 2014, a year before Gail died. | Credit: Howard Woolley 2.3 million Black men who are He was an only child and sole the primary caretakers for a caregiver for his mother, who family member — whether it's a spouse, suffered from Alzheimer's. "I was in my law and a quarter are caring for spouses parent, other relative or even a friend. fifties, so quitting my job was not an or partners. option," Williams said. "But I was scolded Although the average U.S. caregiver is a by friends and relatives for putting my "But they are also caring for friends, 49-year-old woman, 40% — or 16 million mother in a facility. They said I should neighbors and grandparents," said — are male. More than 15% of African have quit my job and stayed home."

Choula.

American caregivers are men, according Fredericka Waugh, a Black former to an AARP report on caregiving to be executive at the Delaware Valley Michael Williams, a retired Philadelphia released in November.

Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association EMT and caregiver support group in Philadelphia and a support group facilitator, believes many Black men are Perception vs. Reality facilitator, agreed with Williams' uncomfortable being caregivers because You rarely see a report talking about assessment. of people's perceptions that men in African American male caregivers," said general, and Black men in particular, Rita Choula, director of caregiving at the "My experience has been that Black don't serve as caregivers.

AARP Public Policy Institute. "There is males don't reach out soon enough," this perception of males in general that she said. "African Americans (in general) "Since people don't think of them as they are not family caregivers. Or our don't reach out soon enough, especially caregivers, they know that and don't expectation of the male caregiver is that for a diagnosis. Sometimes they are not feel comfortable stepping out there and there is a brother that slides in and pays aware of the resources. Sometimes they being a caregiver, Williams said. "They the bills and slides back out." don't want anyone to know that their know people find it unusual." loved one has some form of dementia."

But AARP's research suggests otherwise.

Doing It Alone Williams, a support group facilitator The stress of caregiving can be "They are bathing mothers, making since 2012, said and maybe 1% of the enormous. meals and conducting complicated participants are Black men. "Over the wound care or medication regimens," past eight years, I've talked to two [Black] Williams cited a Stanford University study Choula said. men in support groups. One came in which found the stress and depression so twice. The other only came in once," he great that 40% of Alzheimer's caregivers According to the report, the average said. die before the people they are caring African American male caregiver is 48. A for. A woman in one of Williams' support third are caring for a parent or parent-inGeorge Wheeler, a Washington, D.C. groups had to be hospitalized with

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clinical psychiatrist and a caregiver for his mother, said many Black men feel too vulnerable to open up and talk about how they feel. "They are guarded," he noted.

"They don't go into therapy because they don't feel like it will work for them."

Tell Your

adrenalin," Greene said.

It wasn't until she died that "things crashed," and he sought help from support groups.

Friends

Woolley found support talking to family and friends. He said his wife, Gail, It can be especially warned him Jackie and Marcia Greene on their wedding day difficult for men in when they met Credit: Jackie Greene general, but Black at Syracuse men in particular, to take care of their University that he should be prepared for mothers, especially when they have to periodic trips to the hospital because of help with some of the more personal her disease. tasks, like bathing or helping them go to the bathroom.

They lived mostly uneventful lives for years, but an ankle operation "went bad" "It's hard for them," Waugh said. "It's an and resulted in an amputation and left emotional thing. They find it much easier Gail in a wheelchair. She later required to take care of their wives." an oxygen tank full time as the sickle cell affected her respiratory functions. As she According to the AARP report, 69% Black lost her independence, he became more male caregivers are employed, and at of a caregiver and eventually retired. least half say that caring for their loved When Gail died, they had been married ones has had an impact on their jobs for 34 years.

— whether that meant having to leave early, take time off from work or being Most of his friends were aware of forced to give up their jobs to care for the situation. "I found other people their loved ones full time. that had spouses dealing with other things," Woolley said. "A colleague Keeping Caregiving Stress Private had a husband who was dealing with a Greene spent months driving his wife, debilitating disease. Gail had a number Marcia, from their home to Johns of friends who understood her situation.

Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, back I would talk to them. I had the support of home to drop her off, and then to his job friends." in northern Virginia.

Williams said Black men need to stop trying to do it all by themselves.

"I had been driving for three hours before I got to work," he said. At one "Don't feel like you've got to handle it point, he had to literally live at the by yourself," he said. "A lot of men, their hospital after her surgery so he could pride won't let them ask for help. There meet with doctors when they made their are a lot of people who offer help, and rounds at 6 a.m. His boss told him later they turn it down. If someone offers that he had no idea how sick Greene's help, accept it." wife was because he was at work every Rodney Brooks is a personal finance and retirement day as usual.

He told a few close friends but did not talk much about what he was going through. "The whole time I was on The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine

BOOM! Available Here and 200 other locations!

Adams Drugs Sommer's Place Fresh Market Whole Foods Tomatino's MCA Fitness Vintage Cafe Derk's UPS Stores Steak Out Steaks & Wine Capital City-Ace Hardware Orange Therapy Down the Street Chappy's Deli Health Wise Foods Eastbrook Flea Market John Lee Paints Home Care Assistance Doug's 2 Baumhower’s Restaurant Jan's Beach House

writer whose work has appeared in USA Today, The Washington Post and elsewhere.

Source: This story first appeared on Next Avenue, www.nextavenue.org

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Grandpa Chan and Grandma Marina

By Julie Pfitzinger

Draw for Their Grandchildren and the World

Taylor Swift. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Beyoncé. What do these celebrities have in common? Besides being significantly under age 50 ("The Rock" is closest at 48), they all have hundreds of thousands of Instagram followers.

Add to that list Grandpa Chan and Grandma Marina, a pair of 78-year old grandparents who live in Seoul, Korea and whose Instagram page, Drawings for My Grandchildren, currently has close to 400,000 followers.

Decidedly not celebrity types, in the traditional sense, the couple launched the site in 2016 to simply share drawings with their grandchildren, two who live in the United States and two in Seoul.

Grandpa Chan (Chan Jae Lee) does the drawing, with Grandma Marina (Kyong Ja Ahn) creating the stories – images may focus on something remembered from their own childhoods, a simple sketch of the natural world, a significant moment (such as a recent drawing of the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg) or a sweet scene of family life.

Both have backgrounds in teaching, and at one time, owned a small clothing store together. Grandpa Chan's drawings have been exhibited in several galleries and collected works from their Instagram site are featured in the book, "Looking Back, Life was Beautiful," now available in the United States.

To take their cool factor up a notch, Grandpa Chan and Grandma Marina are also on TikTok, where they regularly post videos of themselves dancing, sometimes with their two teenage grandsons. For the uninitiated, TikToks are very short dance or music videos, fewer than 15 seconds in length. To date, the couple has more than 860,000 followers and 8 million views on the social media platform. Take that, Taylor Swift.

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In this edited interview with Next Avenue, conducted via email and translated from Korean into English, the first couple ever selected as Next Avenue Influencers in Aging, talk about their special form of storytelling (and their particular creative process), becoming adept at technology, and finding a sense of purpose as you age.

Next Avenue: Grandpa Chan, have you drawn from the time you were a young boy? Grandma Marina, have you always enjoyed telling stories?

Chan: I never drew when I was young.

Rather, as I sang and danced very well when I was four or five, I got gifts from adults and was invited to sing for feasts. When I drew in an art class when I entered my elementary school, my teacher praised me very highly and that was when I realized I was good at drawing.

Marina: I really loved reading books when I was young. My mom scolded me as I was reading novels while I was having my meals.

How much time do you spend drawing and creating stories each day? Where do you find your ideas and inspiration?

Marina: The two of us talk about what to draw. We decide what the theme will be: a photo or video of children, TV news, an animal story, the weather of the four

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seasons, reflections of the past, etc.

The moment the decision is made, the storytelling is already set up in my brain.

[A post] usually takes two to three hours.

"Two years ago, I gave a talk about my Instagram activities at my [older] grandchildren's school and they told me they were very proud of me."

If I do not like the color choices or if part of the drawing is not what I thought, I point it out right away. We tend to have arguments often due to drawings. If the drawing is done in the way I wanted, I write a story.

However, if the drawing does not match the story in my memory, or if my husband himself does not like it, he draws it again. There are many cases of re-drawing. Often, the drawing is completed the next day.

Even if it does not match my story, if I like the drawing a lot, I change part of my story or writing.

The drawings you have done are creating such a wonderful legacy for your family. But they are also inspiring your thousands of Instagram followers. How do you feel about that?

Chan: This was started with the thought that we would love to [show them to] our grandchildren and I guess that inspired many people. Whenever we have a media interview, when people say

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[our site] is influential or inspirational to them, it is a bit embarrassing and we are thankful about it, too.

special effects. In some cases, I have to get some help from my son and daughter.

it is natural that the body and mind change, too. We worked hard, and we enjoyed our lives.

Marina: I got to know how wide the neighborhood boundary is. Empathy is not different between the East and West.

Through the responses on our posts, I got to learn that the thoughts on loneliness, yearning, fear of war, starving, pain, importance of nature and animals are the same regardless of the age or region. Their minds do touch our hearts.

We always try to not lose our initial intention -- we started this for our grandchildren! Just the thought of them makes me smile.

"Take interest in things around you.

Interest breeds curiosity."

Right now, I am thinking about what to draw, which was what I did yesterday. I am wondering what Astro and Lua are doing now. I tell my kids to send over their pictures again. At night (as it is morning there), the phone is ringing. It is a joyful moment that I can see them!

Two of your grandchildren, Astro and Lua, are quite young, but what do your older grandsons, Arthur and Allan, think about how cool their grandparents are?

Do you see your grandchildren in person very often?

Chan: Actually, I do not talk much about my drawings with my grandchildren.

I do not even ask them if they saw them. Two years ago, I gave a talk about my Instagram activities at my [older] grandchildren's school and they told me they were very proud of me.

Marina: As they live five minutes away, they come over very often. To take TikToks, or, during the exam period, they ask me, 'Grandma, can I come over?'

They come over to learn about literature, history, society, etc., from me. We study two or three hours together.

I know that learning the technology of Instagram took some time. Do you feel that you've mastered that now?

Chan: At the beginning, I tried to learn very hard and mastered it. As it is more like a repetitive function, it is not that difficult once you get used to it. However, as Instagram itself is evolving all the time, I cannot say I am a master of it these days.

It is hard to learn all the varying functions, i.e., posting multiple pictures vertically or horizontally, uploading movie clips, inserting music or adding The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine

Marina: I suggest background music or special effects are needed. When the theme is decided and when the storytelling is made up, I think something like, 'Ah, I need music, or it will be great if it snows…'

It seems that Drawings for My Grandchildren has brought special purpose into your lives. Many older adults struggle to find their own kind of special purpose. What advice would you give to them?

We do not think anything like, "Ah, I am getting old, look at these wrinkles!"

"How old am I?" "Do I need more nutritional supplements?"

How has the COVID-19 pandemic changed your perspective on aging?

Marina: We are learning some things we were not interested before. We are learning non-contact [habits], for example, ordering foods, internet shopping and remote learning.

Chan and Marina: 1. You have to move around. Do not just stay at home. Take interest in things around you. Interest breeds curiosity.

Curiosity is even better.

Also, we exercise at home at scheduled times, walk fast at the park, prepare three meals a day and watch cooking programs, too.

2. Get closer to the young people. The sense of authority as an adult should be abandoned.

3. Learn the functions on your smartphone. It is in the center of our daily lives. It is hard to learn the various functions which are getting updated all the time by yourself. You must get some help or advice from someone else. It is better to learn from young people.

Sometimes, a young guy next door or a young grandchild is better than your own son or daughter.

4. Take a lot of pictures. Your cooking scenes, flowers, trees, puppies or cats…

As you take more pictures, you get to take better ones, too. Show your pictures to others. The habit of taking pictures can generate something unexpected, too.

And, more than anything else, I am pleasantly surprised by my husband's changed habits. In the morning, he makes an ABC (Apple, Beet and Carrot) juice for me, cleans the house and makes a honey-dipped milk for my insomnia right before I go to bed at night.

As this life pattern becomes repetitive, my indifferent husband has changed.

Now he is good at selecting the fruits and vegetables and knows the prices very well, too. This really makes me happy.

Julie Pfitzinger is the editor for Next Avenue’s lifestyle coverage across the Living and Technology channels.

Source: This story first appeared on Next Avenue, www.nextavenue.org

Two Questions for Our Influencers If you could change one thing about aging in the world, what would it be?

Chan: As both of us have not really thought about aging, this question is not easy to answer for us. As you grow older,

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Smart Health - Nature's Way - Tracy Bhalla

Frankincense & Myrrh We have already covered the fact that the bible has over 500 direct references to essential oils, but even those of you not so familiar with the good book will have heard of the three wise men carrying gifts to baby Jesus in the manger – gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh!

This is also probably why so many of us associate these particular oils with the Christmas season.

So what is it about Frankincense and Myrrh that made them as equally valuable a gift as gold? In fact, in those days, maybe even more valuable. Well, both are resins for a start – now you can buy the essential oil derived from the resin, but back then it would have been the raw resin that was given as a gift. Trees that produce resin use it to heal the wounds of the tree, but oils produced from these resins have proven equally effective at healing both physical and emotional wounds of the human kind. Historically, resins have been used for meditation, incense, rituals, protection, and honor.

The aroma of frankincense—fresh, balsamic, warm, and woodsy, with a hint of lemony citrus—has helped create sacred spaces throughout history where peace and connection to self is possible.

The burning of frankincense resin is common in religious and spiritual rituals for purification, meditation, spiritual protection, and enhancement of spiritual development. The sweet aroma is immediately calming and brings about a sense of peace and connection. In fact, the aroma will instantly remind many people of their church or sacred space,

as the neurological connection between your sense of smell and place is very powerful. You can almost “be there”, especially if you close your eyes and just inhale.

Frankincense essential oil (Boswellia carterii) has many positive health benefits as well. It can help support clear, deep breathing—whether it’s used in meditation, during cold season, or to strengthen the breath and chest on an ongoing basis. It has been shown to be helpful for asthma sufferers if used regularly.

Frankincense also has good antiinflammatory and analgesic properties and due to this is great for tension

immune system and helps maintain good health.

Its anti-inflammatory properties also assist in protecting the skin and reducing inflammation thereof. It is considered by many to be a good skin regenerative agent (and is found in many expensive anti-aging products.)

Myrrh essential oil (Commiphora myrrha) has a resinous, balsamic aroma with soft, warm, spicy notes, but with a sharp medicinal edge to it. Throughout history, myrrh has been used to quiet the mind.

It supports the external expression of inner peace. It can also be burned as a resin, just like frankincense, and the two are often used together. They complement each other well, both in therapeutic properties and in aroma.

Myrrh can also help create and sustain a peaceful, radiant complexion.

Considerably more expensive than Frankincense, Myrrh oil can be used in facial care for skin that seems to glow from within. It can assist in calming redness and reducing germs that might cause blemishes. It has good skin protection and healing properties and is also analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antioxidant. An allround fantastic oil!

So, I think we can see why the wise men thought they were A gift for yourself or someone you care about, www.LogHouseAromatics.com appropriate gifts and I hope you can see why headaches and muscular aches and I chose them to be the main act in my pains, especially when blended with Facial Oil duo and body butters for the other supportive oils. coming season. Give your skin a treat!

It is considered to have good antiviral potential and thereby helps support the

Tracy Bhalla, independent consultant with NYR Organics and founder of LogHouseAromatics.com; after 25 years of using homeopathic remedies, it was time to take charge and complete my Aromatherapy Certification, which I achieved April 2020 and since founded LogHouseAromatics.com as a source for useful essential oil and RiverRegionBoom.com December 2020 and BOOM! general natural health information a place to purchase certain products. email: nyrbhalla@gmail.com I am here to answer anyRegion’s questions you may have.

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Christmas Gift! Best Ever!

The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine

R ive r Re gio n Bo o m . co m

December 2020

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51

By Greg Budell

The Mayor of BOOMTOWN

THE CHRISTMAS SHOES "A true story from the Greg files"

2020 isn’t my first rodeo with a weird and challenging year.

I’m refusing to let the insanities ruin Christmas. My real tree was up, lit and decorated on November 21, a record early start. However, I work in the news business and it’s been extremely hard to not bring my work home. At press time, I watched the mayor of Denver, Colorado tell his constituents to avoid family gatherings, discourage Thanksgiving travel and DO WHAT I SAY. The putz then boarded an airplane to join his large family out of state. #nuts

He's not the only “do as I say and not as I do” politician. Our alleged leaders have done a magnificent job of casting a Covid pall over every waking moment of our lives. The good news is that apparently the Colds & Flu season has been canceled this year. Nobody is coming down with those.

As I went through the motions stringing lights, and dangling ornaments on my full, symmetrical Frasier fur I had one thought. This will not be the “worst” Christmas. Different, yes. Just not a Griswoldian disaster.

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made Christmas festive every way possible.

This year I’m making a nice living. My health is decent. Lots to be grateful for.

That was not the case at Christmastime 1997.

My house was in foreclosure. Half of my furnishings had gone down the driveway at 10 cents on the dollar in a desperate sequence of yard sales. My living room was down to a sleeper sofa and an older, big screen TV complete with VCR. My bankruptcy lawyer did a nice job of keeping me in that house an extra few months while I hope for a miracle that would never come.

At Christmastime 1997, I was surviving by voicing on-hold messaging and other projects that kept the lights on and my car in the driveway, but things were quite lean. For 7 years in that house, I put a beautiful outdoor display up and

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state.

In 1997, I just didn’t feel festive, and didn’t want to make my electric bill any higher than necessary. A living room that one year featured a 15-foot tree, was barren of decorations. There was no money for a tree. At least I was navigating the situation in a sober

I had my daughter, Janelle’s, wish list with no clue how I’d pay for anything on it. The big item was a pair of ice skates (yes, big in Florida, really) and a few less expensive items.

Credit cards were in collection and cash “flow” was a slow drip.

Then, on the evening of the 21st (yes, I remember the date) things took a hard turn for the better when my doorbell rang.

There, with a big smile, was Barbara. A successful (and stunning) pharmacist, she and I had known each other for several years. I met her when I needed medication for a Stye (take that, Match. com!).

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We clicked immediately but between her unhappy marriage and my unhappy poverty it wasn’t meant to work out long term. If I’d had a catalogue of people I’d like to see that 12/21 evening, she’d have been one of two or three in it. I welcomed her in.

She’d been to my house previously, so she was taken aback by my sparse surroundings. I explained how things were. I further said I’d been out of touch because a man doesn’t feel like much of a catch when he’s broke. She rolled her sizable brown eyes on that one.

“I can’t stay long”, she explained, but I brought you a Christmas present. “I have nothing for you!”, I protested, but she insisted I open the box. Inside was a pair of shoes- great shoes, a pair of Oxford Timberlands. A fantastic gift, but odd in the sense that it made me self-conscious about the shoes I was wearing. They were beaten up but were they so obviously hideous she felt pity? I hadn’t seen her for months! Why shoes? A grateful recipient never asks those questions and accepts the gift as intended. I did.

She gave me one heckuva parting kiss and drove off into the night.

Barbara told me if they didn’t fit, I could exchange them at Macy’s. The next day, I took them back to Macy’s and got “my” money back. I had no idea they were so expensive ($125)! I orbited the mall and

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picked up everything on my Janelle’s list with enough for a few extra surprises.

I planned to replace the shoes when things got better because I’d be too ashamed to tell Barbara what I did with them.

January. I stayed in touch with Barbara as time passed and was glad she got to see my South Florida radio career rise like a Phoenix.

In 2003, I’d scored World Series tickets.

Barbara liked baseball! I tracked her down and she agreed to go. As we watched the Yankees and Florida Marlins play, she said “I never got to see you in those shoes I got you a few years back!

Did you like them?”.

On Christmas Eve, my little girl came over to spend the day. We made cookies, and I was about to fix lunch when I realized I needed a couple things. We drove to a nearby vegetable stand operated by a well-weathered farmer named Nancy. I bought from her whenever possible. Nancy had also been selling trees that year and had one, enormous balsam. “Need a tree?” she asked.

I slipped my hand under her chin and pulled her face toward mine.

“No thanks Nancy. No tree this year. Can’t afford it”.

“You’ve been a good customer, Greg. Take the tree. You can have it”.

She trucked this monster back to my house and helped set it up in the stand. It filled an entire side of my living room!

Janelle was thrilled. I grabbed the light and ornament boxes, and we spent 2 hours making the tree look Rockefeller Center worthy. In the span of hours, my house went from forlorn to festive.

Our Christmas celebration was terrific, thanks to those shoes and Providence.

On the 26th, it was back to reality, but the tree remained standing deep into

I looked deep into her bottomless brown eyes and said in all sincerity- “those shoes were one of the greatest Christmas gifts anyone ever gave me”.

Maybe the best, ever. I never did see if they fit my feet, but they fit my situation to perfection.

Merry Christmas, BOOMers!

(If you have a comment on this column, email me at gregbudell@aol.com. It's still fun to hear from new people!)

Greg Budell lives in Montgomery with his wife, Roz, and dogs Hershey and Briscoe. He’s been in radio since 1970, and has marked 15 years in the River Region. He hosts the Newstalk 93.1FM Morning Show with Rich Thomas & Jay Scott, 6-9 AM Monday-Friday. He returns weekday afternoons from 3-6 PM for Happy Hour with sidekick Rosie Brock. Greg can be reached at gregbudell@aol.com

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By Bertha Lazenby Knox

My Christmas Giant

I was born in the early 1930's, when our country was struggling to overcome the great depression. I was the youngest of a large farm family. To have enough food and necessary clothing was a blessing in itself. Often as papa thanked God for our meal, tears ran down his face. Having a family of my own, I realize papa was wishing he had more material things for his family. No matter how meager our table was, it was always shared with someone less fortunate.

Late one afternoon a few weeks before Christmas, there was a knock at the door. I ran and opened the door, there stood the largest man I had ever seen.

During these years of hard times, a number of people walked from place to place looking for work. They were called tramps, but they were honest men and women looking for work.

A few nights before, mama read us a story about the big giant that lived in the hills and came down into the valley at night to capture people to be his slaves.

When I looked at the man, I thought the giant had come for us and I was afraid.

Papa came to the door, talked briefly with the giant. Mama was in the kitchen cooking supper. Papa asked me to go to the kitchen and tell mama to fix the man a plate of food. The giant was invited to sit by the fire for it was bitter cold.

When mama brought the plate of food in, I expected the giant to grab the plate and hurriedly eat it, like the giant in the story. Instead, he gently took the plate, sat down by the fire, ate slowly enjoying every bite.

When the giant finished his supper, papa lit the lantern, picked up a quilt and lead the stranger to the barn to sleep. I didn't sleep too well that night thinking the giant would break down the door and capture us.

Plans had been made to kill hogs the next day. Everyone was up at dawn, even the giant from the barn. Hog killing

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was a busy time and the giant stayed to help. I was too young to go to school and usually when anything out of the ordinary was being done, I was always in the way. That day I stayed in the house away from the giant.

cardboard and colored yellow for the treetop.

Sunday afternoon a week before Christmas the family went to the woods to look for a tree.

Papa asked the giant to go with us. After the tree was selected, the giant cut it down and carried it home. He watched while we decorated the tree.

The giant slept in our barn and worked for the nearby farms. I think he knew I was afraid of him, because he kept offering to help me with my The next chores. It was Saturday when my job to carry Mr. Weldon's in the wood for Rolling store the cook stove. came, the doll One evening as was gone. I asked I was gathering Mr. Leonard up the wood, about the doll, Bertha Lazenby Knox with her "most beautiful doll" the giant he remarked offered to a man bought carry it for me. I threw down the wood, it. With the doll gone it wasn't any fun ran into the house and closed the door. looking in the store. The next day was He never offered to help me again.

Christmas. That night we wrote our names on a box, put it under the tree There were no supermarkets in those for Santa to put our gifts in. We knew it days, but Mr. Vic Weldon's Rolling store wouldn't be much, but we would enjoy came every Saturday. Mr. Leonard would whatever it was. Usually it was one gift let me get in the store and look while along with apples, oranges, and candy. mama traded eggs for needed items. In Papa was up early to start the fire so a box was the most beautiful doll I had the room would be warm when we got ever seen. The doll's face was painted to up. I rushed to the tree, in my box was perfection and the dress was green satin. something wrapped in brown paper, I held the doll gently, closed my eyes and I couldn't believe my eyes, it was the wished Santa would bring me one like it. beautiful doll.

Later I asked mama if Santa Claus would bring me a doll like the one in the store.

She said, “I don't think so, it looks too expensive”. That night as we sat around the fire, mama popped popcorn for us to make popcorn rope for our Christmas tree. We cut out paper lanterns, colored them different colors with crayons to hang on the tree. A star was cut from

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The giant was gone that morning and we never heard from him again. It wasn't until many years later, mama told me the giant bought the doll for me. I don't know his name or where he came from. But Mr. Giant I want to say thank you for my doll and for one of the best Christmas’s I ever had. Thank you for being my Christmas Giant.

The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine

The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine

R ive r Re gio n Bo o m . co m

December 2020

BOOM!

55

56 BOOM!

December 2020

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The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine