












JOIN US FOR A NIGHT OF JOY!













JOIN US FOR A NIGHT OF JOY!
Event: MMFA Hosts Fall Festival & Market
Event: Montgomery Oyster Festival
Event: Memphis Meets Montgomery
Event: Riverbend Brewfest and Country Jamboree
Event: Zoobilation at Montgomery Zoo
Event: Shindig to Benefit Child Protect Caregiver of the Month Event: Masterworks Concert at Davis Theatre Event: Newcomers Club
Word Search Contest Moore Wealth Management
Founder Jim Watson (1950-2024)
Publisher Jason Watson 334.328.5189 cell/text jason@riverregionboom.com
Editor DeAnne Watson 334.462.0225 cell/text
Contributing Writers
Jeff Barganier
Greg Budell
Susan Moore
Nick Thomas
Melissa Watts
Cover Photography
Photography by DiAnna Paulk photographybydiannapaulk.com
Advertising
Jason Watson, 334.328.5189 jason@riverregionboom.com
If August felt like the warm-up act, September is the main event.
Down here in Alabama, we like to pretend fall is in the air—lighting cinnamon candles while the thermometer reads 92°, sipping pumpkin coffee in shorts, and convincing ourselves a crisp breeze is just around the corner.
But let’s be honest—fall isn't just a temperature shift. It’s a mindset shift.
We lean back into routines. We cheer on our teams. We check the calendar and start thinking, “If we’re gonna do it this year, we better get to it.” And that’s exactly the spirit that runs through this issue of Boom!
At the heart of it is our cover story on Tommy Dismukes, a man who defines what it means to age with grace, gratitude, and grit. After more than 30 years of walking alongside families at Huntingdon College, he’s stepping into a new season with humility, humor, and a deep trust in God’s plan—even when it’s hard. His life story is full of loss and love, service and second chances, and it reminds us that “aging well” isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, being kind, and staying curious.
That same spirit shows up in our Grumpy but Grateful column, where we poke fun at the heat, the high blood pressure of SEC football, and the sacredness of buffalo chicken dip—all while celebrating the joy of gathering with people we love. Because let’s face it: this time of year may test our thermostats, but it also strengthens our sense of connection.
If Tommy's story inspires you to reflect, then “From Bucket List to Booked” might just push you to act. September is the perfect time to stop saying “someday” and start putting actual dates on the calendar. That European river cruise you’ve been dreaming of? That art class you keep meaning to sign up for? That trip to see the leaves change in New England? Don’t wait. Make the plan. The joy begins the moment you commit.
And if you're looking for a little local adventure in the meantime, Nick Thomas brings us another gem with his hiking column—this time to Georgia’s stunning Providence Canyon. It's proof that sometimes, awe-inspiring experiences are just a short drive away.
So here’s to September—the season of subtle changes and bold decisions. A season for showing up. For booking the trip. For eating the deviled eggs and yelling at the TV. For remembering that our best days aren't behind us—they're still waiting to be lived.
And as always, Age Well—
With the recent completion of the stone columns for the new Pedestrian Entrance to Montgomery Botanical Gardens, the board of directors is excited that more good things are in store. The arched MBG sign will soon be installed over the columns that will designate the location of the gardens for visitors. Then the Pedestrian Gate will be installed between the columns.
Montgomery Botanical Gardens, River Region Trails and the city will be working together to complete the improvements in accessibility and safety for the new entrance. Plans are to improve the surfaces of the sidewalks and curbs at the intersection of Park Avenue and Forest Avenue and to adjust
the curbing to be ADA-compliant. The uneven area and sidewalk at the new entrance will be removed and replaced with a smooth surface to improve accessibility to the gardens. New grass sod will be installed in the rectangular area beside the street, and historical hexagonal stones will be installed in concrete, smoothly leading the way through the entrance. Both of these projects will enhance the accessibility, safety, and appearance of the entrance. The board of directors for MBG will be very pleased to have the new entrance and especially to have the sign in place so people will know the location of the gardens and have a convenient way to enter and enjoy them. An official ribboncutting will be announced when all the work is completed.
Some other near future plans for MBG include coordinating with the city to establish electric power in the gardens; raising funds to construct the gazebo designed for the Southern Garden; installing the second portion of the Japanese Maple Garden; planting of additional Memorial Trees; installing the historical JanneyCrane Fountain and new basin; holding an Art Contest that will enhance the appearance of the trash receptacles for the gardens; and participating in the national pollinator census count day. Another good thing is that the first of the 2025 Fall classes will be held on Saturday, September 13, at 10 am on “Passalongs and Propagation”. So, plan to join us and learn how to multiply your plants. Visit the MBG website at www. montgomerybotanicalgardens.com.
Ingredients:
1 cup basmati rice
½ cup chicken stock
1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
2 teaspoons yellow curry powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
½ sweet onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
½ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
1 ½ teaspoons brown sugar
Equipment: Slow Cooker
Instructions:
In a large saucepan of 2 cups water, cook rice according to package instructions.
In a small bowl, whisk together chicken stock, tomato paste, curry powder, garam masala, turmeric, salt and pepper.
Place chicken, onion, garlic and ginger into a 4-qt slow cooker. Stir in chicken stock mixture. Cover and cook on low heat for 4 hours.
Stir in heavy cream, lime juice and brown sugar; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Serve immediately with rice.
Photography provided by Jeff Barganier
Record high temperatures have blanketed the Carolinas. We find ourselves apologizing for bringing a sweltering inferno with us from Alabama. But we’ll cool down soon. Our railway car on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad is air-conditioned. And they serve cold beverages too.
We stop by Bryson City’s Dolce Vita coffee and pastries shop for a latte and cinnamon roll. (They make excellent decaf lattes.) I take a seat beside a lady and a little girl. I ask if they’re locals. “We are. I’ve lived here my whole life. I own the business next door—Rita’s Hallmark. Where are you folks from?” she asks me. I explain we’re from the Montgomery, Alabama area. “Did you bring the heat wave with you?” I admit we did. The thermometer in the River Region was pushing 107 degrees when we left—one of the reasons we were craving North Carolina’s mountains.
they serve hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. This can’t be easy, I think.
In the vast parking lot for our train excursion, we met the friendly Scroggins family from Arkansas. They have travelled eleven and a half hours to experience the Smokies and, especially, to ride the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad from Bryson City through the Nantahala Gorge. In fact, we keep meeting folks from literally all over the country, if not the world. As we all walk toward the train, I hear a number of foreign languages being spoken—Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine. But they all seem to comprehend Southern pretty well. All wonderful people. I think I even overhear one saying, “y’all.”
“Could you take it back? This is very unusual for us.” I told her about our fly-fishing adventure the day before, how we had gotten down in the cold mountain rapids under the shade of the tall trees, how great it felt. “Did you fish the Nantahala?”
“No, we crossed Lake Fontana in a speedboat with our hair on fire. Then hiked up a tributary called Forney Creek,” I explained. It was quite exhilarating. “Seth, our dauntless young guide from Fly Fishing the Smokies, took us.” Seth was the most patient and amazing guide. He went out of his way to show us old geezers a good time. We would probably have been seriously injured or killed attempting to fly-fish the Smokies on our own! It’s worth the effort, but if you’re over 65, you need
to read the Liability Waiver carefully and BELIEVE it. I’ll tell you more about our intrepid fishing “date” in a future issue. You don’t want to miss it.
Cindy told Rita that she had seen her Hallmark sign and speculated that Hallmark had probably filmed a million movies around here. “And they should,” Rita agreed. And we concur. Bryson City is not only picturesque; its people are special. The town’s folk make a significant contribution toward explaining why this Western North Carolina town is such a desirable vacation destination. The people here have servant hearts. And, with much grace,
We board and take our seats. Enter our coach-car attendant, Connie. She spent 30 years working for the airlines and is super proficient at dealing with the public amiably and professionally. She establishes an instant rapport with her sojourners. “I’ve done it all (with the airlines),” she says. “This is not like work to me. I love this job.”
Connie serves, and simultaneously entertains, us passengers with great aplomb as the train floats away from the station. Soon, we’re cruising along at fifteen
miles per hour, crossing a trestle over the Nantahala. This railroad bridge has been in service for over a hundred years. There’s just a little bit of kudzu along the route, but the scenery also includes stunning views of towering mountains and sparkling water. By-standers and river rafters’ wave to us from below. Connie warns us, “It’s strictly against the law not to wave back.” So, we do. Farther along, Connie points out the oldest house in North Carolina. (I think
I have that right.) It looks lonely, sitting down in a placid green valley all by itself. A young soldier who survived the Civil War
built it for his mother back in the 1860’s. Cindy wishes to renovate it. I wish to move into it. Neither of our wishes will come true. But this is what a scenic train ride precipitates in our minds and hearts—
dreaming—as we gaze from our large window, navigating time.
At breakfast on our last day we meet Mike Shaker, owner of Everett Street Diner. He goes out of his way to create a family atmosphere in his restaurant. For example, he believes in steering young minds away from the distraction of gazing into iPhone screens. (Doesn’t work with adult wives.) I’m enjoying the colored pictures taped all over the wall to my left when Mike steps over to speak with us. “These pictures on the wall, the only reason we do these is that they keep the cell phones out of kids’ hands. That’s just a terrible pet peeve of mine. So,
now, there are kids who come in and they make it a point to tell me that they left their electronics in the car.” We all laugh, and Mike steps away to lead the singing of Happy Birthday to a young lady who just turned twenty-one. I have to say: I love Bryson City. I love its beauty. I love its people. And their attitude. I kind of think it’s a city of heroes. It takes heroes to serve others so well. This they do. Go see for yourself. More on Western North Carolina later. Many blessings.
Barganier is a novelist, travel writer and speaker. He travels far and wide upon the slightest excuse for something interesting to write about. His novels include Lawson’s Bluff (2021); The Slash Brokers (1998). He also manages Cindy Barganier Interiors LLC (www.cindybarganier.com) at The Waters in Pike Road, Alabama. Contact Jeff at Jeffbarganier@knology.net. You may print out his features at www.jeffbarganier.com and take them with you when you travel!
“I’ll plan it after the holidays… after the grandkids are grown… after I’m in better shape.”
But here’s the truth: there will always be a reason to delay. The calendar will never magically clear. The best time will never arrive. And as the years roll by, “someday” can quietly turn into “never.”
The first step in moving from dream to done is to put it on the calendar. Not just “visit Italy” — but “May 12, 2025: Fly to Rome.”
A date changes everything. It forces decisions. It moves the trip from a fantasy to a real commitment. And once it’s there, other life events begin to arrange themselves around it.
Large goals can feel overwhelming, but breaking them down makes them manageable:
Choose your priority – Pick one bucket list item for the next year instead of trying to do it all.
Set a timeline – Block off time now, even if you don’t have all the details.
Budget – Decide how much you can realistically spend and start setting aside funds each month.
Research & plan – Look at weather, costs, and best travel times for your dream destination.
Book something –Even a small deposit locks you in and makes it real.
Money worries? Look for off-season deals, use travel points, or choose a shorter trip now with a bigger one later.
Health concerns? Talk with your doctor and plan activities that fit your needs — there’s almost always a way to adapt.
Fear of the unknown? Book a guided tour or travel with friends.
Autumn naturally brings a sense of transition. The busy summer has wound down, the holidays haven’t yet arrived,
and the slower evenings invite reflection. This is when you can grab a notebook, pour a cup of cider, and start plotting the experiences you’ve been dreaming about.
And here’s a secret: the joy starts the day you make the plan, not just when you arrive at your destination. Anticipation can lift your mood for months.
Your bucket list is more than a wish list — it’s a reminder of what makes life feel full and rich. The older we get, the more precious our time becomes. This season, choose one dream and take the first real step toward it. Book the ticket. Sign up for the class. Start the adventure.
Because someday isn’t on the calendar. But you are. •
A breakthrough therapy for BPH now offered at Baptist Medical Center East.
Urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate (BPH) can be frustrating and hard to talk about. But there’s a new solution. Aquablation Therapy is a minimally invasive, robotic procedure that uses a heat-free, high-pressure waterjet to precisely remove excess prostate tissue—with no cutting and no impact on sexual function. This advanced, personalized treatment helps reduce symptoms, restore bladder function, and improve quality of life.
Aquablation is helping men feel like themselves again—with fewer bathroom trips, more control, and better sleep. Find out if it’s right for you at BaptistBladderControl.com or by calling 334-747-7070.
I don’t get it!
BOOMers, we are the first fully mass-media marketedto generation. TV didn’t join the party until we were the children of the 50s.
For most of us, Mr. Potato Head was the first toy sold on television. All hell broke loose from there, and we have been listening (mostly) to Madison Avenue ever since.
In our youth, we were told that “things go better with Coke”. Non-believers in Coca-Cola could choose to become part of the “Pepsi Generation”. Burger King said we “could have it our way”. When we got our DLs we were told by Esso to “put a tiger in our gas tank!”. Virginia Slims sold their cigarettes, targeting women with “we’ve come a long way, baby” (discontinued on 1/1/71 with all ads for smokes on TV).
The ignorance lies in the assumption that consumers are idiots who’ll clap like trained seals for any pandering gesture. Woke ads often feel like they were crafted in a boardroom echo chamber, where nobody dared ask, “Wait, does this actually make sense?”
Two recent examples define success and failure.
Sexy men and women were often used to sell products because, for most, we like looking at sexy men and women and want to be that way, to whatever extent our God-given gifts will allow us.
Today, BOOMers are targeted by mostly medical ads for diseases, conditions, and syndromes (many of which I didn’t know existed and feature side effects like death). The ad culture has, in its herd mentality, firmly believed people over the age of 55 are “locked in” and won’t consider different brands or products.
Such garbage!
Then came social media, which gave rise to a group that lives to social-engineer and began lecturing us on their illconceived realities.
Woke advertising: the corporate world’s attempt to surf the wave of social justice while wiping out spectacularly on the shore of common sense. It’s like watching a clown juggle flaming torches—entertaining, but you know it’s gonna end in a blaze of embarrassment. The ignorance fueling these campaigns is a masterclass in missing the mark, and the failures are so gloriously predictable you could set your watch to them.
Picture this: a mega-corporation, flush with cash but starved of self-awareness, decides it’s time to “connect” with the youths. They hire a team of marketers who’ve spent more time on X than in the real world, and the result is an ad that screams, “We’re here for equality!” while tripping over its own sanctimonious shoelaces. Take Bud Light’s 2023 Dylan Mulvaney fiasco. They thought slapping a trans influencer’s face on a beer can would scream “inclusivity.” Instead, it alienated their core audience—guys who just wanted a cold one, not a lecture on identity politics. Sales tanked, boycotts erupted, and the brand became a punchline faster than you can say “tonedeaf.”
EPIC FAIL- The CEO of Cracker Barrel got out of bed one day and decided that nostalgia, the old-fashioned country store, and products that made their 600+ national restaurants popular had to go. “Let’s take everything that defined our brand and made us successful and flush it!”.
It was a giant middle finger to their loyal customer base. If the Cracker Barrel CEO is still there at year’s end as anything but a server (I doubt she’d know a biscuit from a dumpling), it’ll be a miracle.
SUCCESS- American Eagle Jeans went the old route and hired the very attractive actress Sydney Sweeney to work her way into a pair of their pants in a commercial, while praising her “great jeans”.
I loved it.
The “woke”, however, heard “great jeans” as “great genes” and decided Ms. Sweeney was Adolph Hitler. A play on words triggered these nincompoops (a word deserving wider usage) into seeing a cute commercial as a hat tip to genocide. Last I checked, American Eagle was the best-selling jean in America. Nobody protested. No riots. People just said “enough insanity” and supported the company with their dollars.
Then, there’s the failure of execution. Woke ads love to virtue-signal, but they often come off as exploitative. Gillette’s 2019 “The Best Men Can Be” campaign scolded its own customers about toxic masculinity. Bold move, lecturing the guys buying your razors. The result? A PR disaster, with X posts calling it a betrayal of their loyal base. Sales dipped, and the brand learned the hard way that preaching doesn’t move product.
Last I checked, masculinity is still popular with most women. Let the ladies decide who’s a jerk and who isn’t.
Target’s CEO just resigned after years of losing customers by turning their restrooms into political props. Victoria’s Secret's recent brush with bankruptcy ended when they decided to once again put sexy women in their sexy clothes after some, uh, garish and misguided marketing.
These companies think they’re championing progress, but they’re often just commodifying causes. It’s performative, like a toddler in a superhero costume—adorable until they trip and cry. Consumers aren’t as gullible as brands hope. They can smell inauthenticity a mile away. When you lecture instead of listen, you get Bud Light’s quiet boycott (sales have never recovered) and Cracker Barrel’s emptier dining rooms.
The lesson? Stay in your lane, sell your product, and leave the moralizing to philosophers. Or at least hire marketers who’ve met a human before.
And don’t forget BOOMers in your messaging. We have open minds. We have money.
Most of us have great jeans, too!
Greg Budell has lived in Montgomery for 20 years. A 50+ year veteran of radio, TV and writing, Greg hosts the Newstalk 93.1FM Morning Show with Rich Thomas, Susan Woody, and Jay Scott, 6-9 AM Monday - Friday. He returns weekday afternoons from 3-6 PM for Happy Hour with Pamela Dubuque and a variety of sidekicks. His favorite topic is life! Greg can be reached at gregbudell@aol.com.
In the seaside town of Ikaria, Greece — a place where people routinely live into their 90s and 100s — it’s common to see neighbors chatting over fresh bread, beans simmering on the stove, and vegetables picked that morning from the garden. They aren’t following fad diets or counting every calorie. They’re simply eating in ways that nourish the body, protect the heart, and keep minds sharp well into old age.
The good news? You don’t have to live on a Greek island to benefit from the same principles. Science shows that certain foods can help us live longer, age slower, and feel better — and fall is the perfect season to start.
Around the world, “Blue Zones” — places like Ikaria, Sardinia (Italy), Okinawa (Japan), Nicoya (Costa Rica), and Loma Linda (California) — share common dietary habits:
1. Mostly plant-based, with occasional fish or lean meat
2. Lots of beans, greens, and whole grains
3. Minimal processed foods and sugar
4. Healthy fats from nuts, seeds, and olive oil
5. Eating mindfully, often in community
These eating patterns are linked to lower rates of heart disease, cancer, dementia, and diabetes.
Here are some of the best longevity-boosting foods, backed by research — and easy to enjoy in everyday meals.
Leafy Greens – Spinach, kale, collards, and arugula provide vitamins, minerals, and brain-protecting antioxidants.
Berries – Blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries fight inflammation and may improve memory.
Beans – Lentils, chickpeas, and black beans are packed with fiber and plant protein.
Nuts – A small handful daily supports heart health.
Whole Grains – Oats, brown rice, and quinoa keep blood sugar steady.
Fish – Salmon, sardines, and trout supply omega-3s for brain and heart health.
Olive Oil – Rich in healthy fats and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Tomatoes – High in lycopene, which may protect against certain cancers.
Sweet Potatoes – A beta-carotene powerhouse that’s easy to roast in the fall.
Green Tea – Loaded with antioxidants and linked to longevity in Japanese studies.
The secret isn’t eating perfectly — it’s eating better most of the time. You don’t need to overhaul your diet overnight.
Instead, add a serving of greens to lunch or dinner, swap a sugary snack for a handful of nuts, try a meatless meal once or twice a week, and replace butter with olive oil when cooking.
Try these fall favorites with a longevity twist. The change of season makes it easy to work these foods in. Roast sweet potatoes with olive oil and rosemary. Make a hearty bean soup with kale and tomatoes. Bake oatmeal with blueberries for a cozy breakfast. Brew a pot of green tea on chilly mornings.
Many people fear healthy eating means giving up flavor. But in longevity cultures, food is joyful — full of herbs, spices, and seasonal ingredients. Experiment with garlic, cinnamon, turmeric, basil, and lemon to boost taste and health.
Eating for the Long Haul
A longevity-focused diet isn’t about restriction — it’s about abundance. More colors on the plate. More variety. More shared meals that feed both body and soul.
This fall, try adding just one or two of these foods into your weekly routine. Small steps can lead to big changes over time. Because the goal isn’t just to live longer — it’s to live well, with the energy and clarity to enjoy every moment.
September is here, and you know what that means: we pretend it’s fall, crank up the football, and pray we don’t pass out walking to the mailbox.
As a lifelong Alabamian, I’ve made peace with the fact that our version of autumn is basically summer with football. The thermometer still says 94°, but by golly, I’m drinking pumpkin coffee, lighting a cinnamon candle, and sweating through a long-sleeve shirt like it's mid-October in Vermont. It’s called commitment to the season— look it up.
Of course, nothing says September in Alabama quite like the return of SEC football. Suddenly, otherwise mild-mannered adults are yelling "Roll Tide!" or "War Eagle!" at complete strangers in the Piggly Wiggly parking lot like it’s a secret handshake for the emotionally unstable. You see a man pacing outside a Mexican restaurant on a Saturday night? He’s not on the phone with a surgeon—he’s yelling at a backup quarterback through his AirPods.
At our house, football season means three things: high hopes, high blood pressure, and high-calorie appetizers. My wife has wisely stopped asking me to do anything on Saturdays between noon and midnight. I call it sacred time. She calls it “twelve hours of grown men chasing a ball while you ignore the laundry.”
We host watch parties that start out wholesome enough—chips and dips, a friendly wager, maybe someone’s
deviled eggs if they’re feeling fancy. But by halftime, someone’s yelling at the TV, the deviled eggs are sweating like sinners in church, and I'm on my second helping of Rotel dip wondering how we got here.
And while I grumble about officiating, yell at instant replays, and swear I’m done watching forever (until next week), there’s this sweet undercurrent to it all: family.
There’s something sacred about the routine of gathering around the screen, groaning together when the refs blow the call, and high-fiving when our team scores. It’s not really about football—it’s about belonging. My kids might roll their eyes at my commentary (“Dad, they can’t hear you”), but they still show up. My grandkids sneak chips when they think no one’s looking. My wife hums in the kitchen while the game roars. These are the moments I’ll miss when the nest is truly empty and the house gets too quiet.
This time of year also stirs up a strange optimism. We tell ourselves it’s finally cooling off—when in fact it’s 89° instead of 99°. We pretend we’re going to cook more dinners at home and get back into routines. We
dream of walks in crisp air while still swatting mosquitoes. September is the month of make-believe for adults: football dreams, weather delusions, and the belief that this year, we’ll actually keep that mums plant alive on the porch.
But I’ll take it.
Because for all the heat, the heartbreak, and the hangry third quarters—September gives us a reason to gather. To care. To shout and cheer and gripe and laugh. To wrap ourselves in old traditions and new memories.
So yes, I’m grumpy. I’m hot, I’m full, I’m yelling at teenagers on TV who don’t know I exist. But I’m grateful. Grateful for my people, for the porch fan that almost cools me down, for buffalo chicken dip and grandkids in team onesies. Grateful for every messy, imperfect, beautiful game day we share. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got to change shirts. This one’s soaked through—and the game hasn’t even kicked off.
- Archie Grumbleton
Most children get lead poisoning from paint in homes built before 1978. Keep paint in good condition and use a certified lead contractor to safely perform home renovations if your home was built before 1978.
A blood lead test is the only way to know if your child has lead poisoning. Talk with your child’s doctor about testing, especially at the 1- and 2-year check-up, when children are at greatest risk.
Lead poisoning can cause permanent learning and behavior problems. Follow these steps to stop lead poisoning:
• Practice and teach good handwashing, especially before preparing food and eating.
• Feed your family a low-fat diet high in calcium and iron.
• Damp dust and mop, especially around windows and play areas, to remove lead dust.
• Keep children away from areas with peeling or chipping paint.
On a recent Tuesday, Martha Reynolds sat staring at her calendar. It was barely the second week of September, and already every square was jammed — book club on Monday, a neighbor’s luncheon on Wednesday, babysitting the grandkids on Friday, volunteering at church Saturday morning. She sighed, knowing the same thing she’s known for years: she’d said “yes” to too much… again.
“I appreciate the invite, but I’m keeping my schedule light this week.”
“That sounds fun, but I’m taking some personal time right now.”
“I can’t commit this season, but please keep me in mind for the future.”
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. For many of us, years of habit have made it easier to say “yes” than risk disappointing someone. We’ve built a lifetime of being dependable — for our families, our jobs, our churches, and our communities. But here’s the truth: every “yes” is also a “no” to something else — often the rest, relationships, or personal passions we deeply need.
“Thank you — I’m focusing on a few priorities right now and can’t add more.”
“I wish I could, but I’ve promised my time elsewhere.”
Maybe it’s time to turn that around. Maybe the most freeing, life-giving word you can add to your vocabulary is a gentle, confident… “No.”
Many of us grew up believing “no” was selfish. We were taught to help when asked, to always be a team player, to never let anyone down. While kindness is a gift, saying “yes” out of guilt or habit drains us — and it shows. We become resentful, overextended, and exhausted.
Add to that a simple truth: we like being liked. Saying yes feels safer than risking someone’s disappointment or judgment. But over time, always putting others’ needs ahead of our own can chip away at our health and joy.
When you say “no” to something that doesn’t serve your season of life, you’re saying “yes” to something else — something that matters more.
No to another committee? Yes to quiet coffee on the porch.
No to hosting the big holiday meal this year? Yes to bringing a side dish and actually enjoying the gathering.
No to running errands for someone who’s perfectly capable? Yes to taking that longoverdue walk in the park.
The shift comes when you see “no” not as rejection, but as redirection — toward a life you love.
The way you decline matters. Here are a few gracious approaches:
Be warm but firm. “I’m so honored you thought of me, but I can’t take that on right now.”
Offer an alternative. “I can’t do Saturday, but I’d be happy to help you prep on Friday afternoon.”
When you start guarding your calendar, you notice something: you have more energy for the things you say yes to. You show up fully present. You enjoy yourself. Your relationships get the best of you, not the leftovers.
Fall is a perfect time to begin — routines are shifting, schedules are adjusting, and the year’s final months are just around the corner. Imagine entering the holiday season not already worn out, but refreshed and ready to savor it.
Saying no isn’t about shutting people out — it’s about showing up where you can truly make a difference, with a heart that’s full instead of running on empty.
Keep it short. Over-explaining invites debate. A kind but simple “I’m sorry, I can’t” is enough.
This season, take a look at your commitments. What can you gently let go of? What will you make room for in its place? Sometimes, the kindest thing you can do for others… is to first be kind to yourself. •
Hank Williams 102nd Birthday Celebration
Saturday, September 13 * 3:00 PM
Troy University’s Davis Theatre
$45 VIP | $35 GA
A Honky Tonkin’ good time on what would’ve been Hank’s 102nd birthday.
Music by Jimmy Fotrune, Wyatt Alfman, Arty Hill, The Dewey Bass Band, Brad & Tammy Sue, and more. Visit thehankwilliamsmuseum.net for information and tickets.
Friday and Saturday, September 12 and 13 * 10 AM to 5 PM
Friday, Chalk Walk: 8 AM to 2 PM - Teachers, students, and adults are invited to participate. Preview and Party, 5:30 PM to 8 PM - Get dibs on work from local artists and vendors at the Artist Market, enjoy tasty bites from Funky Forte, groove to live music, participate in artmaking activities, and sip on a cocktail!
Saturday, September 13, 10 AM to 5 PM - This free event features the artist market with more than 30 vendors, live music, featured artist demos, food trucks, and tastings with local brewers. Rain or shine; in the case of inclement weather, activities will be moved indoors. Visit mmfa.org.
Montgomery Oyster Festival
Saturday, September 20 * 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Old Alabama Town, Montgomery
Come hang with us and enjoy fresh Alabama oysters from top farmers, dishes from local and regional chefs, live music from Electric Blue Yonder and BB Palmer, and good vibes all day long. General Admission gets you 12 tickets for oysters or drinks. VIP gets you into a special lounge with an oyster roast by Chef Ban Stewart, a VIP bar, and unlimited refills on oyster and drink tickets. Proceeds support the Landmarks Foundation and historic preservation in Central Alabama. Visit experiencemontgomeryal.org for ticket info.
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September 19 * 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
We are excited to bring the City a full-on Music Experience for what would have been BB King’s 100th Birthday! Our Cruise Line Director: Carlos Strong - The powerhouse vocalist and entertainer!
Special Performance by Jon’te Mayon – Memphis’s soul queen. Crowd Control by Montgomery’s own DJ Hase of Spades– Spinning the hits and hyping the crowd all night long!
$10 Cover at the Door | Reserve Today at OpenTable.com.
September 12 * 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Union Station, 300 Water Street
$35 | Military Discount: $25 Line dancing, Axe throwing, Bull Riding, Barbeque Food Trucks, Bands, DJ and more! Visit experiencemontgomeryal.org.
Thursday, September 18 * Montgomery Zoo * 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Zoobilation is a major, annual fundraising event for the Montgomery Zoo. This year is the night to reserve for this grand event which supports one of the River Region’s cultural and educational icons. In the past, this event, in combination with other efforts, have helped grow and expand the Zoo by add ing the African elephant habitat, American Alligator exhibit and boardwalk, North American River Otter exhibit, Waters of the World Aquatic Center, along with many others. This year’s fundraising efforts will be focused on raising funds for our new Reptile Facility. The current exhibit has served us well over the years; however, it is time to expand and upgrade. The new Reptile Facility will house anchor animals; like Indian Gharial, King Cobra, Komodo Dragon, and Galapagos Tortoise. Inside the exhibit, displays will be divided into biomes; featuring reptiles native to rainforests, woodlands, deserts, and montane. The night will feature samplings from many of the region’s finest eateries and beverage vendors; soulful, toe-tapping, live entertainment; a digital auction, and a few surprises to make the evening grand and festive. Gates open at 6pm. Tickets may be purchased advanced online or in-person, the night of the event. Awesome date night, and fun for a group of friends, group discounts available.
-- Individual tickets: $65 per ticket* -- Group tickets (10-29 tickets): $60 per ticket*
-- Group tickets (30+ tickets): $55 per ticket*
*All Zoobilation guests and participants must be at least 21 years old to attend. Visit www.montgomeryzoo.com for tickets.
September 14 * 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
The Child Protect Junior Executive Board is excited to announce their annual Shindig event! They’re at a new location with new food and drink options, new entertainment, and the same great family-friendly vibes! *Free and open to the public. A $10 donation to Child Protect Children’s Advocacy Center is highly encouraged and appreciated.
Me’kailah Brooks truly shines in everything she does. She embodies adaptability, reliability, and compassion — stepping in with ease for last-minute changes, going above and beyond to keep her clients comfortable, and advocating fiercely for those in her care. Clients trust her, her team counts on her, and her heart for caregiving inspires us all.
Thank you, for your dedication and for making a difference every single day!
September 29, 2025 * 7:00 PM * Davis Theatre
Experience a powerful evening of music as the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra performs Voices Shouting Out by Nkeiru Okoye, a vibrant tribute to resilience and hope. Acclaimed pianist Evren Ozel joins the MSO for Mozart’s lyrical Piano Concerto No. 23 in A Major, followed by the sweeping drama of Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 in D Major—a program rich with contrast, expression, and energy. Visit www.montgomerysymphony.org for tickets information.
The Newcomers Club of Montgomery welcomes women who are new to the area or simply looking to stay active, connect, and have fun. With monthly luncheons at Arrowhead Country Club, 10 activity groups, and local outings, joining the Newcomers Club is great way to make friends and get involved in the community. Learn more on how to become a part of our vibrant, supportive group of ladies at NewcomersOfMontgomery.com or newcomersmontgomery@gmail.com.
It seems almost every state lays claim to possession of a mini version of the Grand Canyon, and Georgia is no exception. Just a 2-hour drive from Montgomery, Providence Canyon State Park near Lumpkin is a jewel amongst Georgia’s 47 state parks.
Just past the entrance on Canyon Road, restrooms and picnic tables on the left are available for visitors. After utilizing both facilities on a recent visit and parking ($5 fee), we walked past them to the observation platform and gazed down some 100 feet over the protective wooden railing for a bird’s-eye view of the canyon. Deep gullies and dramatic cliffs layered with striking colors of red, pink, orange, and purple painted a surreal image.
your water shoes in a backpack. However, it could rise after heavy rain. Check with the park staff if water levels might be an issue for you.
Visitors can walk the rim trail and admire this oddity of nature from above or, as we did, hike down into the canyons, which unfold into nine numbered sections that are grouped fairly closely together and connected by short paths. An additional colorful treat can be seen in July and August when rare plumleaf azaleas burst into brilliant red blooms with their latesummer display.
The canyon floor can be reached by driving a short distance to the trailhead just behind the visitor center. But before setting out, consider your footwear: there’s likely water ahead! Although it may appear like a shallow stream, water leaches up from the water table onto the canyon floor, according to the park’s website, but it’s usually only a few inches deep – so take
And if you're hiking during the summer months, be prepared for Georgia’s intense heat and humidity. We’re all familiar with the Southeast’s brutal summer weather, so bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. While areas along the trails are fairly shaded, there are some sunny spots.
The trail to the canyon floor is not long, but it is a little steep descending down a dirt path so a hiking pole might be useful (and as always, remember you have to walk back up again). This is where you may first encounter water at a sort of crossroads. To the left are canyons 1-5, and you may have to walk through a little water to the drier parts of the trail. Canyons 6-9 can be reached up a very steep hill at the same intersection. Let’s examine canyons 1-5 first.
a welcome bench awaited for a few minutes' rest. Then it was downhill, more water to navigate, and fairly easy paths to the remaining canyons – all excellent.
Unlike Arizona’s Grand Canyon, which is composed of rock eroded away by the Colorado River and tectonic uplift over millions of years, Providence Canyon didn’t exist 250 years ago. From above, it may appear like a rocky canyon, but it’s composed of soft iron and manganese-rich clay and sand (hence the bright colors) deposited millions of years ago. When protective foliage was stripped away in the 1800s due to poor farming practices, erosion accelerated to reveal the colorful sediments beneath.
The path to these is fairly level, maybe a bit damp, and signs direct you to each of the canyons. The first two are the least impressive, so skip them if you want to save time. Canyons 3-5 are amazing and well worth investing some time to explore. As you walk the canyon floor, look up and you may see other park visitors peering down at you from the park’s rim trail above.
We backtracked to the crossroad and climbed the steep path to canyons 6-9, where
President Theodore Roosevelt once called the Grand Canyon “one great sight which every American should see.” While that recommendation might not quite apply to Providence Canyon, the natural forces and human impact that shaped this unique Southern landscape make it a site every visitor will also appreciate.
Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery in Alabama and has written features, columns, and interviews for many newspapers and magazines. His hiking column describes short trails, hikes, and walks from around the country that seniors might enjoy while traveling. See www. ItsAWonderfulHike.com.
When you meet Tommy Dismukes, you quickly understand why he has been such a steady presence at Huntingdon College and in the Montgomery community for more than three decades. A Lexington, Kentucky native who came south in 1979 with dreams of basketball and the blessing of a grandmother nearby, Tommy found his true calling in higher education—guiding generations of families through the financial aid process with kindness, integrity, and an unmistakable servant’s heart. Along the way, he’s weathered personal loss, celebrated milestones, embraced new adventures, and built a reputation as someone who lifts others up while living life fully. As he transitions into semiretirement, Tommy reflects on faith, family, resilience, and what it really means to “age well.”
BOOM: You grew up in Lexington, Kentucky, and came to Montgomery in 1979 to play basketball at Huntingdon. What do you remember most about those early days and the decision to make Montgomery home?
Tommy: First of all, I am a very big Kentucky Wildcat fan. I attended a huge high school (Tates Creek) in Lexington. I applied to lots of big colleges, but my parents convinced me to look at Huntingdon College as a smaller school option. I loved the campus and people when I visited. Plus, I had the opportunity to play basketball, which never materialized as they canceled the program the same year I was set to enroll. I tell people jokingly that I took
the Huntingdon College basketball program to another level. The other great bonus of moving to Montgomery was that my grandmother (Honey) lived in Montgomery, as this is where my dad grew up.
BOOM: After eight years in banking, you found your true calling in higher education, directing financial aid at Huntingdon. What drew you to that role, and what’s made it so rewarding over the past three decades?
Tommy: I had a fraternity brother named Paul Mittelhammer who served as the Director of Admission and Enrollment at Huntingdon. He knew that I had a strong background in Finance after graduating with a degree in Accounting. He asked me to become the Director of Financial Aid in 1991. The job suited my professional abilities and allowed me to assist hundreds and hundreds of families in helping them attend Huntingdon. In my 29+ years, I
have always been involved in assisting families with financial aid matters, but have also had the opportunity to serve as the Director of Admission, the Director of the Evening Program, and the Athletic Compliance Officer. It has been very rewarding, as I do think I have made a difference in some lives.
BOOM: You’ve built a reputation for kindness, integrity, and customer service. What’s your secret to
approaching people in a way that makes them feel truly supported?
Tommy: I have always liked being around other people. You learn quickly as an adult that if you treat other people with kindness and respect, then you will most often get that in return. I have always wanted people to trust me. The best way to do that is to have integrity and strive to always do the right thing and to do what you say you are going to do. In those situations where that doesn’t happen, I also think it is very important to resolve your differences as quickly as possible. The other thing that is really important is to be "on time". Former Pastor Jay Wolf at First Baptist Church used to say that 80% of success is showing up. I think this is only true if you add ON TIME to that statement. My kids will roll their eyes on this one.
BOOM: You’ve been part of the largest incoming class at Huntingdon in 60 years — how does it feel to know you’ve played a role in that milestone?
Tommy: It is certainly a good way to end my full-time professional career. There are some talented, hardworking people in the Admission Office. But we also have excellent athletic coaches, staff, and faculty who deserve lots of credit as well. I took pride in my work and always wanted to be the best version of myself
at Huntingdon. Hopefully, my colleagues felt I did my job that way, too.
BOOM: As you transition into semi-retirement with a part-time, remote role, how do you envision this next chapter of life?
Tommy: I am very excited about it. I will still try and help Huntingdon continue with their recent enrollment success. However, I want to exercise more and spend more time with my kids and their spouses. I certainly want to travel more as well. I have a very special friend who loves to travel and go see concerts. I have been able to experience a lot of new things and places these past 2+ years and certainly hope that trend continues.
BOOM: You’ve faced some deep personal losses — the passing of your father on your 18th birthday, your mother in 2014, and your wife in 2022. How have those experiences shaped your perspective on life and relationships?
Tommy: I grew up going to church, but never knew what it meant to have a relationship with Jesus. I knew faith was important, but did not understand what that truly meant until I married Kathy and started attending First Baptist Church in Montgomery in the early 1990s. I gave my life to Christ and have been a work in progress ever since. A lot of people think that once you know Jesus, everything is going to be easy. My life has not been easy, but it has certainly been better these past 30+ years. We are not promised tomorrow. God has a plan for us, even if we cannot fully understand
it. Each tragic event in my life has not pushed me away from God but has helped build my faith and challenged me to live my life in a better way.
BOOM: You mentioned creating a life acronym from your mother, Polly’s name. Can you share what that stands for and how it guides you today?
Tommy: I spoke at my mom’s (Polly) funeral in 2014. She and I were very close. I used this acronym and believe it even more today.
P- Put Jesus first (and he will help set everything into motion)
O- Get your life in Order (be organized in the way you handle things)
L- Don’t be afraid to Live life (take chances and try new things)
L- Learn to Laugh (it will make life much more enjoyable)
Y- Life is not about You (it is about serving others)
BOOM: Losing your wife at just 60 brought new questions about the future. How have you found ways to keep living with purpose and positivity?
Tommy: I never thought about what it would be like to live on my own until Kathy went into hospice care in the fall of 2022. I found out quickly that I have some people who really care about
me. I have two great kids, Kassie and Thomas, who are married to wonderful people, Martin and Georgia. They are all a great blessing to me. I have a little brother, Dan, and his wife, Susan, who have always loved and encouraged me. I have a great church family, and a friend named Andy Birchfield who walked each step of Kathy’s brain cancer with me. He is my Superman. These people gave and still give me purpose. What I wasn’t expecting was to reconnect with a special friend that I met in college. She has become very important to me and helps make me content. Also, many of her friends have now become good friends of mine. I am thankful every day and feel blessed to be where I am at this stage of my life despite all that has happened.
with my kids' lives and have always tried to assist them with whatever was needed. It makes me very proud to see the young adults they have become. They both know I will always be there for them if they have questions or needs. I have also learned a lot from them, too. They have helped make me a better, more caring person.
BOOM: Staying socially connected seems important to you, from your work to your involvement in the Kiwanis Club. How have those connections enriched your life?
BOOM: Your kids are grown and married now. How has your role as a father evolved in this new season?
Tommy: When my kids were younger, Kathy and I pretty much directed their lives. However, we never wanted to control them as we knew it was important that they have some life experiences. I had a good dad, but he was not very involved in my life up until the time he died. I wanted something different, so I chose to be very involved
Tommy: I need to be around people, but it is not something that consumes me. I have learned to enjoy my own time in this new season of life. I like to be around people who want to have fun, who want to laugh, who want to love, and who want to enjoy life. Life is too precious, too short, and too fragile not to embrace it. I have learned that I am best when I don’t live in the past or fixate on the future, but rather focus on the day. That is where you see the greatest blessings of life.
BOOM: You’re committed to staying active — hiking, playing pickleball, even tackling part of the Appalachian Trail. What does movement and fitness mean to you now?
Tommy: I am 63 years old now. I can look in the mirror and see it, but I don’t feel like an almost senior citizen who will draw social security in the reasonably near future. I need to be moving about
as much as possible. Walking, hiking, and pickleball make me feel better and help with weight control. Plus, I love to eat good food, but must balance that with exercise each day if I want to feel good.
BOOM: Travel and adventure are clearly passions — from Crater Lake to France, and now Italy. What draws you to explore new places, and do you have a “bucket list” destination still ahead?
Tommy: I enjoy exploring new places and seeing things I have never seen before. I went to France and Switzerland this past year and loved it. We traced my family roots to Meaux, France (just outside of Paris), and it was a very special experience. We are going to Italy in September. I love to see the way other people live. Going out of the country is great, but I am also looking forward to visiting lots of other places in the United States and Canada. The Canadian Rockies and Alaska are certainly on my bucket list.
BOOM: What advice would you give someone in their 50s or 60s facing loss or a major life transition?
Tommy: I mentioned it before, but learn from and remember the past, but don’t dwell on the difficult things you have faced. Plan for the future, but don’t rush your time away. Most importantly, be kind and in the moment each day. You never know how or what you say
will impact others. I want to encourage others to have a positive outlook on life.
BOOM: How do you personally define “aging well,” and what daily choices help you live that out?
Tommy: By not looking at the mirror each day....LOL. Strive to be the best version of yourself. God created us all equally but gave each of us different gifts. It is important to try and be healthy, to let your friends and family know that you care and love them, and attempt to serve others in a meaningful way.
BOOM: Looking ahead, what’s one thing you still want to learn, try, or experience that excites you about the future?
Tommy: To not be fearful as I grow older. I also want to live my life fully. I want to embrace it and take advantage of all life has to offer. I want to try and help others, specifically those people who are food insecure. There is too much abundance in our country to let that happen. My prayer for others...Numbers 6:24-26.
1. Go-to breakfast order? Oatmeal with nuts and fruit.
2. Favorite book you’ve read in the last year? A Gentleman in Moscow.
3. Most-used pickleball shot — forehand or backhand? A hard forehand slice.
4. One song that always lifts your mood? I Can Only Imagine by Mercyme.
5. Best local spot for a quiet coffee or lunch? On a porch somewhere.
6. First place you’d go if you could hop on a plane tomorrow? Canadian Rockies.
7. One thing you always keep in your hiking pack? Water.
8. Favorite way to spend a Saturday morning? An early morning walk to see a sunrise.
9. Most adventurous thing you’ve ever done? As a new hiker in 2023, I hiked many miles in North Cascades National Park in the state of Washington.
10. Three words friends would use to describe you? Hopefully, kind, faithful, and competitive.
We want to thank Tommy for sharing his story with us this month. If you have comments or suggestions about our cover profiles, including nominating someone, please text Jason Watson at 334.328.5189 or email jason@ riverregionboom.com.
As a retiree, are you at risk for outliving your income? A serious question for serious times. Recently, several key assumptions traditionally used in retirement income planning are being challenged by leading financial industry experts. Are retirees who made those traditional assumptions still okay?
For example, lately several famous market observers, including John Bogle, the founder of the Vanguard Group, have warned that investors should reduce their expectations for their stock market investment returns to 4% a year. Ray Dalio, founder of one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world, also recently warned that “investment returns will be very low going forward.”
In addition, several leading studies have challenged the validity of the traditional “4% rule.” Developed back in the 1990’s when interest rates were higher for CDs and bonds, the rule stated that if a retiree kept their withdrawals limited to 4% of their initial retirement portfolio balance, that it should provide a sustained income for thirty years of retirement. However, Wade Pfau, a professor of retirement income at the American College of Financial Services and Michael Finke of Texas Tech University, found that given the sustained current level of low interest
rates that the level of acceptable initial withdrawals needed to be limited to 2.85% to provide an income for thirty years of retirement.
The Stanford Center on Longevity recently published a study that recommended that retirees should focus on sources that were not exposed to stock market risk to cover essential expenses, i.e., Social Security or an annuity of one type or another. It found that if income to cover essential expenses was exposed to stock market risk that the emotional cost of worrying about meeting expenses during a stock market downturn would prompt many investors to make illadvised investment decisions.
On Wednesday, September 24th, Susan Moore of Moore Wealth Management, Inc. will be conducting a complimentary webinar on methods of how to not outlive your retirement income. The workshop covers a number of issues including factoring in the abovementioned changes to traditional assumptions, key risks (i.e., sequence rate of return and inflation), and various approaches to mitigating the risks of outliving your income.
Susan Clayton Moore, J.D., is a financial advisor and wealth manager of Moore Wealth Management, Inc., with offices Montgomery and Alexander City, AL. Susan has under advisement over $150 million (as of 9.1.24) in brokerage and advisory assets through Kestra Financial and has been a financial planner for over 40 years. Contact Susan at 334.270.1672. Email contact is susan@ moorewealthmanagement.com.
The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Kestra Investment Services, LLC or Kestra Advisory Services, LLC. This is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney or tax advisor regarding your individual situation. Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS. Kestra IS or Kestra AS are not affiliated with Moore Wealth Management, Inc. https://www. kestrafinancial.com/disclosures