boom! september 2012

3BOOM!September 2012The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine r iverregionboom.com

r iverregionboom.com4 BOOM! September 2012 The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine

r iverregionboom.com6 BOOM! September 2012 The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine6 BOOM! The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine

7BOOM!September 2012The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine r iverregionboom.com BOOM!The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine

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

Carl BardContents September 2012

BOOM! The River Regions 50+ Lifestage Magazine is published monthly by River Region Publications, 8637 Harvest Ridge Dr., Montgomery, AL 36116. The phone number for voice and fax is 334.523.9510. Copyright 2012 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.

Volume 3 Issue 2

Features

Departments

Humor AdviceHealth

Community

BOOM! COVER PROFILE

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“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” C.S. Lewis

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

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14 Golden Age FashionRockin’ it at 60 and beyond.

18 Taste Your Waythe Kentucky Bourbon Trail

27 Beauty Tips...For the Rest of Us.

10 This and That Have you heard...?

28 {12} Things Solutions for bored people.

30 Male CallGreg Budell, Genes of My Father.

ThoughtRelationships

TasteInspiration

Jackson Hospital’s Health News

Publisher’s Letter

Cover Profile

Corporate Day of Service

Don’t Gamble with Your Recovery

Need a New Job?

Healthy Hearing, When the Water’s Running!

Art & Soul: Sandi Aplin

BOOM! Advertising

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This is for all of the Boompreneurs out there in the River Region.

What do you read? Are you in business? Do you want to be a self-made millionaire? Well listen up. I was reviewing my emails the other day and one of the blogs I subscribe to opened up with the headline “The 3 Books Read Most by Self-Made Millionaires!” I thought that was an interesting headline because I too had considered becoming a self-made millionaire.

The first book was the number one book recommended and it is Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. It’s a great book for building your confidence and developing a burning desire to acquire riches through detailed and specific plans with a definiteness of purpose. This book will develop your ability to focus on the one thing you desire most. I’ve read it.

The next book on the list was Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell. In this book, Gladwell defines an Outlier as “a scientific term to describe things or phenomena that lie outside normal experience.” Then he goes into great detail about how outliers happen. Chapter 2, the most talked about chapter, discusses the 10,000 hour rule which is basically the idea that to become a true expert and extremely successful in your field you need to have at least 10,000 hours of practice. He even gives examples of amazing people like the Beatles and then adds up how many hours they practiced. Practice makes perfect and as one millionaire said, if you’re really good at what you do, better than anyone else, the money will come. I’ve read it.

The third book most self-made millionaire’s read was E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber. The tag line on this book is “Why Most Small Businesses Don’t Work and What to Do About It”. Gerber makes you realize that just because you know how to do one aspect of a business doesn’t mean you are equipped to do the others. After explaining all of the roles in being a successful entrepreneur, he shares the essence of the book’s premise which is building a system to operate it. Your Business System becomes the business. I’ve read it.

No, I haven’t achieved the status of those self-made folks just yet but according to C. S. Lewis “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” I’ve got the goals, now where is that iPad, maybe the digital versions will be more rewarding!

In this month’s issue of BOOM! you’ll find the longest serving Ronald McDonald in the history of McDonald’s. For forty years Jack Galassini, this month’s BOOM! Cover Profile, played the role of Ronald McDonald and was given an award (see cover) by Willard Scott of the Today Show because Willard also played Ronald McDonald for forty years. Jack is also very involved with our community and it was great spending some time discussing what keeps him busy nowadays. I think you’ll enjoy getting to know Jack.

We have some other features many of you will find interesting and helpful. We have a feature on traveling the Kentucky highways through bourbon country and why it may be on some of your bucket lists. Lots of history and a little taste of you know what. We also have some fashion and beauty ideas for women who have reached that special maturity. If you know of anyone who may be dealing with gambling addictions, there is a new statewide organization that is offering help so that people don’t gamble with their recovery. This article may be the most important for someone special in your lives.

Greg Budell shares a terrific memory of his father turning 60. Who knew he could be so sentimental? We have plenty of other good things to read and share. Thanks for reading BOOM! and sharing it with your friends. Please support our advertisers. They are a valuable part of the BOOM! Community.

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.

Please Recycle This Magazine, Share with a Friend!

Self Made Millionaire publisher’s letter

Jim Watson, Publisher

Publisher/EditorJim Watson, 334.523.9510

[email protected]

Associate EditorKelly Watson

[email protected]

Contributing WritersSandi Aplin

Dr. Bettie BortonGreg Budell

Wendy DonahueJack Galassini

Rev. Roger OlsenKathy Witt

Cover PhotographyLola Fine Art Photography

[email protected] www.lolafineartphotography.com

Advertising Jim Watson, 334.523.9510

[email protected] Mottenon,

[email protected]

Design & LayoutLake House Graphics

DistributionNetwork Delivery

PrintingPublications Press, Montgomery, AL

334.244.0436

Jim

[email protected] 334.324.3472 cell/text

334.523.9510 office


Ask audiologist Dr. Bettie Borton how many ears she’s treated and she’ll say “thousands.” It’s the voice of experience.

As a board-certified audiologist with more than 30 years of experience, Dr. Borton is recognized as an expert in hearing health care.

The only AudigyCertifiedTM provider in Alabama, Dr. Borton has been helping your friends and neighbors get the most out of life for years. Call for a complimentary hearing screening. Then put yourself in the hands of someone who has done it a thousand times before.

Meet the doctor who’s all ears.

View our virtual seminar at www.doctorshearingclinic.com

888.805.5295For your convenience, call us toll-free at

ClinicHearingDoctorsHelping People Hear!

MontgoMery 7025 Halcyon Park Dr, Ste A

oPeLIKA 2204-D Gateway Dr

Bettie B. Borton, Au.D., FAAABoard Certified Doctor of Audiology

Former National Chair of the American Board of Audiology

President-Elect of the American Academy of Audiology


This & tHAT iFaulkner Brings Former First Lady to Montgomery

Free Broadway Under The Stars Pops Concert

Norman Rockwell’s America

The Montgomery Symphony will perform a free evening of Broadway showtunes on Thursday, September 13th, when the Orchestra presents its 26th annual Broadway Under The Stars Pops Concert. The concert will feature music from such hit shows as Oklahoma, Annie, Fiddler on the Roof, A Little Night Music, Beauty and the Beast, and The Sound of Music. Picnic baskets, coolers, blankets, and lawn chairs are all welcome at this free, family-orient-ed event which is sponsored by Regions Bank. The concert will be held lakeside in the Blount Cultural Park in front of the Alabama Shakespeare Festival and will begin at 7:30 pm. Come early and pick a good spot to enjoy your family’s outing. The gates will open at 5:00 pm. For more information, or to order a Special VIP Dinner Package with reserved seating and parking, call 334-240-4004.

This fall, beginning September 16th, the Birmingham Museum of Art will host Norman Rockwell’s America, an in-depth look at the life and work of America’s favorite illustrator. Rockwell’s six-decade career coincided with one of the most eventful periods in American history, spanning four wars, the Great Depression, the space race, and the Civil Rights Movement, all vividly depicted in his work. The exhibition includes 52 original paintings and drawings, and all 323 Satur-day Evening Post covers Rockwell created between 1916 and 1963. More Info, 205.254.2565 or visit http://www.artsbma.org

Former First Lady Laura Bush continues to serve others, empower women and help better our country. Faulkner University is proud to host the former first lady in Montgomery for Turning Points, a dinner event to benefit Faulkner University, on October 4th. The dinner will take place at the Montgomery Renaissance Convention Center, and all the money raised will help fund scholarships. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.faulkner.edu/bush. As the featured speaker for Faulkner’s annual Benefit Dinner, Laura Bush will share her unique perspective as someone who played a part in history, revisiting the events that helped shape our nation. Last year, attendees enjoyed President George W. Bush’s unique perspective from the White House. This year, attendees can enjoy the first lady’s perspective. Laura Bush is one of the most admired American First Ladies and continues her work on global healthcare innovations, empowering women in emerging democracies, education reform and supporting the men and women who have served in America’s military.


BOOMERS, share your stuff with BOOM! We Love to Bring BOOMERS Together, send info and pics to [email protected]

Top States Who Give The Montgomery Zoo Launches New Zoofari Skylift Ride

How would you like to put your toes in the treetops as you glide 30 feet in the air above the Montgomery Zoo? Get a bird’s eye view of the giraffes, the ani-mals from our Australian, Af-rican and Asian collections and so much more on the Montgomery Zoo’s all new ZOOFARI SKYLIFT RIDE. Visitors are invited to climb aboard a chairlift-style, open air ride that will provide a spectacular view of the Montgomery Zoo and its many residents.

1. Utah: Donated10.6 % of discretionary income. 2. Mississippi: Donated 7.2 % of discretionary income. 3. Alabama: Donated 7.1 % of discretionary income.4. Tennessee: Donated 6.6 % of discretionary income.5. South Carolina: Donated 6.4 % of discretionary income.6. Idaho: Donated 6.4 % of discretionary income.7. Arkansas: Donated 6.3 % of discretionary income.8. Georgia: Donated 6.2 % of discretionary income.9. North Carolina: Donated 5.9 % of discretionary income.10. Maryland: Donated 5.7 % of discretionary income.50. New Hampshire: Donated 2.5 % of discretionary income.

Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange wants your photographs! More specifically some of its most notable buildings. No matter what your level of photograhic experience, the city of Montgomery is looking for residents to immortalize Montgomery facades. “Your Best Shot,” the city-wide

contest wants to build a photo archive of the city’s unique architecture by encouraging residents to take a picture of their favorite building in Montgomery and submit it to a panel of judges. Winners are eligible for first, second and third place prizes of $500, $250 and $100. The contest requires that all submissions be a standard 8 x 12 size and be taken with a 300 dpi (dots per inch) camera, which amounts to about 8.6 megapixels. Entries will be accepted Oct. 1-15 and any building within the city limits is acceptable. While photo-editing software like Adobe PhotoShop or Google’s Picasa may be used to enhance the

picture, the rules states that the photo cannot have elements added or removed. Strange said that the contest wasn’t just about building a photographic inventory of city architecture, but about developing a community fondness for Montgomery. “I’ve talked a lot lately about lovable cities and what makes a lovable city,” Strange said. “This is a good way to love your city and show that by participating.” Photos may be submitted by email to [email protected] beginning in October.

Did Someone CallTech Support?

Montgomery Through A Camera Lens The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera. --Dorothea Lange


BOOM! COVER PROFILE

This month’s BOOM! Cover Profile is Jack Galassini, President and owner of Galas-sini & Associates, an advertising/market-ing company located in the River Region. Jack is a leader who speaks his mind and serves his community with compassion. Jack is also known as the only other person, besides Willard Scott of the Today Show, to perform the role of Ronald McDonald for 40 years! He finally hung up his Big Shoes in 2008, after match-ing Willard Scott’s record tenure. Jack is a true family man, as evidenced by the picture on the right and that big smile on his face! Jack is a member of St. Bede Catholic Church and when possible he shares his faith by explaining our purpose on earth is to know, love and serve God. He tells it like it is and explains that’s what happens as we age, we don’t hold back. We sat down recently with Jack and he shared his passions for his faith, his family, his community and his career. Hope you’ll enjoy spending a little time with Jack as much as we did.

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, mar-ried, family, etc?

Jack: I Was born and raised in Chicago and came to Montgomery in 1962 with the Air Force. Married wife, Pat, from Ft. Lauder-dale FL. in 1966. We have 3 children and 9 grandchildren. We raised our family in this area and I, my wife and all three children have our degrees from Auburn University, and our oldest grandson is in his second year at Auburn.

After four years in the Air Force, I worked in Advertising with Sears until 1968 when I started work at WKAB-TV the ABC affiliate which is now WNCF. In 1970 I moved to WSFA-TV where I was their National Sales Manager. In 1975 I left WSFA and opened my advertising agency.

BOOM!: You are the president and owner of Galassini & Associates, one of the most respected advertising/marketing compa-nies in the River Region. What is it about the advertising business that has been so rewarding to you? Do you understand why the AMC Madmen Series is so popular?

Jack: Probably the most rewarding part of the advertising business is to see an adver-tising campaign generate the traffic or busi-ness that it is designed to do. Our job in the advertising business is to effectively deliver messages about business to consumers to give them information about a product or service that will encourage them to try it. From the business perspective, they must deliver on the promise that we make in the

ad to be successful. For that reason we will only handle accounts that are will have products or services that are truly repre-sented in their ads.

BOOM!: You are nearing your 70th birth-day, still very active and energetic, what’s your secret?

Jack: As I near my 70th birthday I am still quite active in my business as well as the community. My secret is to try to stay physically healthy and to always keep my mind working. Sadly over the years I have seen many friends in business just stop working and in a short time they have be-come physically and mentally unhealthy.

BOOM!: Many people over 50 are experi-encing a renewed sense of purpose, new goals, new careers, especially if they’ve experienced the empty nest syndrome of their kids moving on. How would you describe this sense of renewal in your life? Any advice for the rest of us seeking renewal?

Jack Galassini, Trust in God


activities that grab your attention?Jack: I enjoy golf although I am not that good at it. I enjoy photography especially the ability to capture God’s gift in nature on film.

BOOM!: As an advertising/marketing professional and a producer of a TV show aimed at people over 50, what’s the future of marketing to us “older folks?”

Jack: The senior segment is continuing to grow and to live longer. Marketers need to be more involved with this group. They generally have two things that businesses need, Time and Money.

BOOM!: If you weren’t in the advertising business what would be your dream job?

Jack: I am doing my dream job right now with my television show, The Time of Your Life, on WSFA TV on Sunday mornings at 6:30.

BOOM!: Many of our readers will know you as Ronald McDonald. How did you get that job and what was it like to be so popular?

Jack: I got into the Ronald McDonald program in 1968 while working in television. Leon Had-ley who owned McDon-ald’s in the area needed some-one to play the character. I volun-teered to

do it one time to help him and wound up doing it for forty years. It was a pleasure to have been able to bring joy into so many lives during that span.

purpose on earth is to know, love and serve God. We serve God by serving our fellow man who is in need. Most of the organiza-tions that I have volunteered with over

the years do exactly that, serve those in need. I am currently involved with Medical Outreach Ministries, an organi-zation that provides medical help to the

underserved. I was also instrumental in helping to start a new non profit called The Alabama Council On Compulsive Gambling which addresses the needs of persons with addictive gambling problems. I am also still active in ministries in St. Bede Catholic Church. I am an active member of the Ki-wanis Club of Montgomery and work with the Alabama National Fair.

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

Jack: I am still ambitious but have learned to say No and take more time to smell the roses. In 2003 I had six bypass surgery and that was a wake up call to spend more time with family and friends. I still feel that we need to have goals to help give us purpose in our everyday lives.

BOOM!: Give us three words that describe you?

Jack: Trust in God

BOOM!: Do you have any hobbies or other

Jack: My focus in this stage is to try to pay more attention to other aspects of my busi-ness and personal life. I am still very much involved in my weekly Television program, “The Time Of Your Life” which has been on the air since 1995. The show was devel-oped to reach the 50+ audience with segments to help them at this time of their lives.

BOOM!: What are you most passion-ate about?

Jack: As a grand-father with nine grandchildren I am most passionate about the direction that our country is going in and what we will be leaving our children to fix. We as a nation have basically turned our backs on God. God is the center of my life in ALL that I do. Until we realize that and put God back into our lives and our country we will not be successful at anything.

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

Jack: I really enjoy a good laugh and will sometimes watch old series like “Everybody Loves Raymond” on television. Laughter is a great relaxer and especially right before going to sleep at night. They say don’t try to go to sleep after watching the news which can be quite depressing these days.

BOOM!: Favorite vacation spot? Any travel dreams planned for the future?

Jack: I enjoy both the beach and the moun-tains for their beauty and tranquility. We are embarking on a trip to Alaska which has been a destination that I have planned to visit but have not yet done so.

BOOM!: You have given back to the River Region Community in every way imagin-able. Please share with us the importance of serving others? What organizations are you currently involved with?

Jack: I believe that we must give back to the communities that we are a part of. Our

If you have questions for Jack you can reach him at 334.277.5000 or [email protected]. Thanks to Roger Olsen for helping us coordinate our cover profile with Jack. Of course, thanks to Jack for sharing his time as he was preparing for a cruise to Alaska with his wife Pat. If you have questions, comments or suggestions, please send them to [email protected]

Jack and his wife Pat

True blue and orange Auburn fans


Golden Age in Fashion: Rockin’ it at 60 and beyond Dressing one’s age, if that age was older than 60, once could be summed up by the word “slacks” and all its negative, outdated connotations.

“For women today in their 50s, 60s and 70s, it’s a whole different game. Our culture is so focused on health and it has changed the face of growing older.

“You would look at some of my clients in their 50s and you would think they’re 40, if that,” said Jesse Garza, fashion expert, author and partner in the multi-city wardrobe and styling service Visual Therapy (http://www.visual-therapy.com/). “What’s great about our older clients is they’re usually empty-nesters, so now they can spend more time traveling and having fun. There’s no ‘On Golden Pond’ happening. For us to line up these wardrobes and push them out the door is rewarding.”

Ari Seth Cohen started the blog “Advanced Style” to show that with age can come an even greater sense of fashion freedom, whatever one’s means. “The women I photograph fight invisibility through self-expression and self-confidence.” Cohen said.

Here, some tips: Go bold with accessories. “I probably wear a lot more jewelry than I used to wear. I accessorize a lot more _ scarves and capes and such,” said Jan Melk, a globe-trotting, business-owning, daily-exercising client of Garza’s. Show a little skin. “There are ways to keep it sexy in a tasteful way,” Garza said. Consider an open neckline with a great piece of jewelry, or a tank with something sheer on top of it. This summer, eyelet fabrics have been popular. Other open-weave fabrics show a hint of skin but can keep women in their comfort zone. With dresses and skirts, Garza says many of his clients who do not like completely bare legs swear by Donna Karan’s “The Nudes” pantyhose. Perk up basics with a nod to trends. Melk believes in high-quality core wardrobe pieces: a dress, a suit, a blouse and skirt. From there, she injects a trendy, inexpensive element such as a bright belt. Be open to something new and different. When Melk shops, she walks past the racks and goes to one of the sales associates at Saks Fifth Avenue or Neiman Marcus who have steered her in the right direction before. “They tell me what’s new, and I find these gals helpful, and they’re not pushy and they don’t get you into something you have no business wearing,” she said. “I’m not wearing skirts way above my knees. That’s my daughter, that’s not me. But when someone encourages me to try things on that I wouldn’t ordinarily try on, I do.”

Reference the masters. Some of Garza’s older clients who love fashion, invest in figure-flattering luxury brands such as Akris for suits, Gucci for separates and knits, and Roland Mouret and Victoria Beckham for dresses. For stylish shoes, there’s middle ground between 5-inch Christian Louboutin platforms and Ferragamo flats. For a sophisticated heel, many of his clients have become fans of the YSL Palais pump with a platform.

Even if designer price tags are beyond one’s budget, it can be illuminating and uplifting to try on high-quality pieces that are cut expertly. Then a woman can try to approximate the details that make a difference to her at affordable price points, or have her clothing altered to fit properly.

“Just because you’re of a certain age,” Garza said, “doesn’t mean you have to throw on a twin set and sit in a rocking chair.”

(c)2012 Chicago Tribune, Distributed by MCT Information Services

By Wendy Donahue


The journey to end breast cancer starts with a single step. Take that step

with the Montgomery Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk. Just a few hours of your time will help bring a lifetime of change for people facing breast cancer and their families. Plan your teams now and get ready to make a difference in the lives of friends and family. Passion drives us to walk in and raise money for Making Strides. Passion for those we wish we could have back in our life, for those battling the disease, and for a world without breast cancer. This year’s walk is Saturday, October 13, at Huntingdon College. 7:30 AM Registration, 8:30 AM Program and Walk. For more info contact Laura Walter at [email protected] or 334.288.3432

Doctors Hearing Clinic is proud to welcome Katie Slade, Au.D., as the newest addition to our audiology staff. Dr. Slade is a Board Certified Doctor of

Audiology, with certification issued by the American Board of Audiology® (ABA). She joins the Doctors Hearing Clinic team from Newnan, GA, where she served for several years as a clinical audiologist for a large ENT practice. Dr. Slade comes to Doctors Hearing Clinic with a Bach-elor’s degree in Communication that she received from Auburn University in 2004. She also received her Doctor of Audiol-ogy degree from Auburn in 2008. While completing her doctoral degree, she was recognized by the Speech and Hearing Association of Alabama (SHAA) as Stu-dent of the Year in 2006. She moved to Montgomery, AL in July of 2012 with her husband, Stefan, a State Farm Agent, and their daughter, Anna.

Churches, the Cancer Wellness Foundation gives critically needed

assistance to your family, friends and neighbors as they are in the battle for their lives …against cancer. The Foundation has begun “The Hope Challenge”. We are urging

or challenging the churches in the Montgomery area to contribute $400 to “sponsor” a patient. This donation will provide for one patient’s needs for a six month period. Your church can have a genuine impact on the outcome of someone struggling with cancer. We ask that your congregation, Sunday school class or a particular group within your church family accept this challenge and donate funds to help those with cancer. To donate call 334.273.2279. Please visit www.cancerwellnessfoundation.org

The Hope Challenge Doctor’s Hearing ClinicWelcomes Dr. Katie Lanier Slade

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer


September 11, 2012 marks the 11th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that shocked and changed our great nation forever. In the days and weeks that followed, the country came together in an unprecedented spirit of community and commitment.

To commemorate this historic time and pay tribute to those killed and those who rose to service on 9/11, HandsOn River Region, the volunteer management program of the Volunteer and Information Center, has organized numerous community service and remembrance projects.

The Volunteer & Information Center, in partnership with the River Region United Way and HandsOn Network, has planned a day of service to engage and inspire members of our business community to serve on this day and beyond in honor of 9/11. The 9/11 Tribute Movement underscores the power of people using their time, talent, voice and resources to create positive change in their communities.

On Tuesday, September 11, 2012, volunteer participants will gather for a kick off breakfast hosted by HandsOn River Region and River Region United Way. Following breakfast, individuals and groups

representing several local businesses will disperse to volunteer their time and provide 3-hours of service to work on various projects benefitting our community’s most vulnerable populations. Volunteer opportunities include gardening at MACOA’s Archibald Center, sorting and organizing donations made to the Montgomery Area Food Bank, assisting teachers in the classrooms at The Children’s Center and more.

More than 200 local volunteers are expected to serve throughout the week of 9/11 and join more than 1 million nationwide for this National Day of Service.

To volunteer and be a part of the 9/11 Corporate Day of Service, please call the Volunteer & Information Center, HandsOn River Region at 264-3335 or sign up on the agency’s website at www.handsonriverregion.org .

Corporate Day of Service Marks the 11th Anniversary of 9/11


Tradition, limestone and a little bit of magic. These are the key ingredients needed for good Kentucky bourbon and Kentucky, being the place where 97 percent of the world’s bourbon is made, has lots of good Kentucky bourbon.They’ve been at it a long time – more than 200 years – the Master Distiller and Mother Nature working together to produce this liquid gold.

And they give away all the secrets, mostly for free, on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, a bucket list adventure that wends its way through the rolling landscape of central Kentucky, rewarding those who tour with tutored tastings and more. Completing the Trail comes not only with bragging rights, but an official t-shirt.

“So many bourbons, so little time,” the t-shirt proclaims. And bourbon aficionados, both those familiar with the country’s only Native spirit and those new to its delights, wholeheartedly agree.Welcome to Kentucky Bourbon Country

At any given time, Kentucky has more barrels of bourbon aging than people – some 5 million to its 4.2 million population. It’s not called Kentucky Bourbon Country for nothing. And the distilleries’ towering rickhouses announce their whereabouts on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail even before the aroma wafts into the olfactory cells. Trailblazers learn how limestone acts as a natural filtration system for the water that goes into making bourbon and the ratio of corn to rye to barley. They see the enormous mash tubs at work as the yeast converts the sugar to alcohol and the new distillate, called white dog, that goes into the signature charred barrels. And inhale the mellow caramel and oaky aromas in the rickhouses as countless barrels age to liquid perfection.

“It takes three days to make and then you sit back three to 10 years to wait until it’s ready,” said Alan “Big Al” Tenniswood, a tour guide with Wild Turkey.“There’s a part of the process that will

always be magic,” noted Bill Gaunce, who leads tours at Woodford Reserve.With three of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail distilleries located in the Bardstown area, it makes sense to begin the journey here, the “Bourbon Capital of the World.” You’ll need to pick up a passport at the first distillery you tour and have it stamped at each stop.

Jim Beam: A new visitors center opens in September. The walking tour and the general American Stillhouse experience will still be free with guests exploring how Jim Beam is made and experiencing the portfolio at the new tasting bars. Available for purchase will be commemorative bottles and limited expressions – only on the distillery grounds – and on rare occasions bottles may be signed by the master distiller himself.

Heaven Hill: The Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center presents the history of Kentucky bourbon in a detailed exhibit just steps from the barrel-shaped tasting room. Smell bourbon at different cycles in the aging process and shop at one of the finest bourbon-centric gift shops on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Board the Heaven Hill Trolley, which departs Bardstown’s historic Courthouse Square for a narrated tour en route to the distillery.

Maker’s Mark: Yes, it’s where you can hand-dip your own souvenir bottle to create the iconic red wax seal. Step into one of three glass-enclosed tasting rooms and sample a bourbon flight: Maker’s White – the white dog, although, according to tour guide Jacklyn Evans, it is still sweet and can be purchased in the gift shop; the fully mature Maker’s – what you find in the stores; the over-mature Maker’s, available only on tour and tasted for educational purposes; and Maker’s 46, beautifully finished with French oak staves.

The other three distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail are clustered together in the Frankfort/Lexington area.

Four Roses: Distinctive because of its Spanish Mission-style architecture, this distillery earned the number three spot on Paul

Pacult’s list of the 140 Top Five-Star Spirits in the World for 2012 for its 2012 Limited Edition Single Barrel Bourbon.

Wild Turkey: Bourbon maestro Jimmy Russell has been at the distillery since 1954, as master distiller since 1966. Son Eddie joined over 30 years ago as associate distiller. Their slogan, “Give ‘em the bird,” is a not-too-subtle hint of the fun within. The general store-type visitors center leads to a small tasting room where you can try American Honey in addition to Wild Turkey’s straight bourbon whiskeys and ryes.

Woodford Reserve: Located in the heart of horse country, at the end of a lazy country road meandering along horse farms, Woodford Reserve is known for its copper pot still and triple distillation process. Kentucky’s oldest and smallest distillery has stone rickhouses and

taste your way along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

By Kathy Witt


call 334.386.7257 or visit Faulkner.edu for event information or to purchase tickets

montgomery renaissance convention center montgomery, alabama

sponsorship and photo opportunities available

dinner: 7:00 p.m.reception: 5:30 p.m. (special ticket admission)

f e a t u r i n g

traces its origins to 1797 when Elijah Pepper began distilling in Woodford County. (You may encounter the reigning Elijah Pepper, the resident “chief feline officer.”)

Bourbon, Bourbon EverywhereOne you’re in Kentucky Bourbon Country, you’ll notice it’s more than a bit obsessed with all things bourbon. In Lebanon, check out the oak barrel charring process on a Kentucky Cooperage tour with the Independent Stave Company. You’ll learn why bourbon loves it and see how staves are shaped and hoops put in place.Lebanon’s new Limestone Distillery makes a traditional bourbon made with rye; the recipe belonged to Minor Case Beam, the great-grandfather of owners Steve and Paul Beam. “We expect to have a young bourbon from five-gallon barrels out in just over a year,” said Steve Beam, adding that there will be more mature bourbons from different sized barrels from then on.

In Bardstown, follow bourbon’s timeline at the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History, where you’ll learn that Abraham Lincoln himself once owned a tavern; his 1833 liquor license and a replica tavern are in the museum. Order from more than 100 bourbons at the new Rickhouse Restaurant. The can’t-miss go-with? The meatloaf open-face served with mashed potatoes, fried onion topping and Henry Baines sauce – a steak sauce with a bite beloved by Kentuckians.

Kreso’s Restaurant throws down a challenge with 140 bourbons at its Bourbon Bar, including Pappy Van Winkle 23-year bourbon and Heaven Hill’s Elijah Craig 18-year bourbon. Barton 1792 – named for the year Kentucky achieved statehood – offers free tours followed by a tasting in its new Tasting Room. And Willett’s Distillery, one of Kentucky’s smallest family-owned and independently operated distilleries, was recently restored and reopened for touring.

Of course, the coup de grace of all things bourbon is the Annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival, a six-day event celebrating America’s Native Spirit with events, including the Kentucky Bourbon All-Star Sampler™ with an opportunity to meet the master distillers of the bourbon industry and the World Championship Bourbon Barrel Relay™. This year, the festival takes place September 11-16. But you’ll still have to taste your way along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail to earn the t-shirt. Pick up your official Kentucky Bourbon Trail passport at any of the six distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail: Four Roses, Heaven Hill, Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, Wild Turkey, Woodford Reserve. Once you have visited all six distilleries and have had your passport stamped, mail the completed passport in and – viola! – four to six weeks later you’ll have the t-shirt, available only to those who complete the journey, to commemorate your trip.

INFORMATIONYou can get more info from the website: www.KyBourbonTrail.com. At the epicenter of all things bourbon is Bardstown, recently voted the “Most Beautiful Small Town in America,” in the Rand McNally/USA Today “Best of the Road” contest. It makes a perfect home-base for exploring Kentucky Bourbon Country and enjoying one of the 18 or so bed and breakfast inns in the area. Visit www.SampleOurSpirit.com for lodging and restaurant suggestions. Kathy Witt is a freelance writer and the author of “Atlanta, Georgia: A Photographic Portrait” and “The Secret of the Belles.” Visit Kathy’s blog at www.TravelinTales.com or email at [email protected]. (c) 2012, McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.


For the Baby BOOM generation, Recreational gambling can be a fun activity. A night on the town, a day at the races, a place at the poker table, betting on sports, or a few hours at the casino. However, for a select group, gambling can become a problem. A Baby Boomer has spent years saving for retirement, a child or grandchild’s college fund, buying a house, and raising a family. Problem gambling can turn a life full of dreams into a life full of heartaches. When one wakes up one morning and says, “I NEVER, EVER, MEANT FOR THIS TO HAPPEN!” and the final outcome for many is prison, insanity, or death. Problem gambling is one of the most misunderstood addictions of our generation, and the addiction is one of the most insidious and destructive addictions because it robs you blind while making you believe that your losses are going to get better. For a Problem Gambler, IT NEVER GETS BETTER, IT ONLY GETS WORSE! One keeps chasing money that one cannot get back. For a Baby boomer, this should be the “Time Of Your Life”. If left unchecked,

this addiction will destroy one’s life and one’s family.

There also exists a problem with those who can exploit Baby Boomers. Money to a Problem Gambler is like alcohol to an alcoholic. Just recently, there have been stories in Montgomery of Elderly People who were taken advantage of by others with a gambling addiction. That being said, even if the Baby Boomer does not gamble another family member (with access to bank accounts and credit cards) might. As long as someone else pays, the problem gambler can play. If one suspects another family member might have a gambling problem, one may want to monitor carefully the financial records of loved ones. Make sure money is not disappearing or being withdrawn. The fact that sometimes one cannot even trust one’s own family members is disheartening. Problem gamblers feel like they are just “borrowing” the funds until one hits the “Big Win” and puts everything

back. Sadly, they don’t hit that big win. People addicted to gambling are not bad people; they are sick people and need help. The addiction can be devastating because there are no outward signs as with other addictions. Gambling addiction can happen anywhere, anytime, and to anyone. No one, (regardless of income, race, age, gender, culture, or social status), is immune to this disease. However, there is good news! Help

is now available here in the State of Alabama. Thanks to Baby Boomers (and co-founders) Jack Galassini and Maryanne Martin, we now have “The Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling”, a 501 (3) (c) nonprofit organization. Founded in 2010, the council is an advocacy and dedicated to providing help to Problem Gamblers and their families. The Council oversees the upkeep of the confidential hotline number (1-800-522-4700) and the training of helping professionals to become National Certified Gambling Counselors. In December of 2011, the council became the Official State Affiliate of the “National Council on Problem Gambling” which is located in Washington D.C. The National Council just celebrated their 40th anniversary. The council is also involved in fund raising to make sure that no problem gambler EVER goes without counseling regardless of one’s ability to pay. This is a challenge as the council receives no State of Federal funding. They rely on the generosity of others in order to provide these services. They are also involved in Public Awareness and Prevention programs. The council is gambling neutral and takes no stand on the issue of gambling. According to Rev. Roger Olsen, Resource Development Coordinator for the council, “Our goal is to provide treatment and help those addicted to gambling. Many don’t know how to find treatment, and many clinicians don’t know the dynamics of the addiction.” For those who would like to help the Council, donations can be sent to: The Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling, 4210 Lomac Street, Montgomery, AL, 36106. Our website is www.alccg.org. The website for the National Council on Problem Gambling is http://www.ncpgambling.org. For those living in the River Region and feel they may have a gambling problem, please contact us locally at 334-277-5100. Remember, help is now available. DON’T GAMBLE WITH YOUR RECOVERY!

DON’T GAMBLE WITH YOUR RECOVERY!


Open HouseFriday September 7th

1:30 - 3:30Free Beauty

ConsultationsSpecial OffersBring a friend

and join us 147 Scouting LnTroy, Alabama334.655.5885

As the demand for skilled health care workers continues to grow, Auburn University at Montgomery’s Division of Continuing Education has partnered with

Boston Reed College to offer certificate programs for those wishing to start a

new career in the health care industry. Designed to meet the needs of the local community, short-term programs are offered in the following fields: Clinical Medical AssistingCertified Phlebotomy TechnicianPharmacy Technician Certification “We take great pride in offering access to affordable training that can lead to sustainable job opportunities in the health care industry,” said Kathy Gunter, senior director of AUM Continuing Education. “It is estimated that 20 percent of new jobs through 2014 will be located in the medical industry, and the majority of these positions will be filled by individuals with four years or less of training.” Boston Reed College, which specializes in health care education, will provide all instruction and materials. Courses will be held at AUM’s Center for Lifelong Learning, located at 75 TechnaCenter Drive. Program fees are as follows: Clinical Medical Assistant, $2,695; Pharmacy Technician Certification, $1,299; and Phlebotomy Technician, $2,825. This includes registration, textbooks, classroom materials, and externships fees. Financing and scholarships are available.

Students may enroll now for the fall term. Classes for the Clinical Medical Assisting program begin Sept. 10, the Pharmacy Technician Certification on Sept. 18, and Certified Phlebotomy Technician on Oct. 2. Register at www.bostonreed.com.

Need a New Job? Does Your Kid Need a Job?


Have you ever tried talking to your spouse while they were wash-ing the dishes at the same time? This is a common patient complaint at Doctors Hear-ing Clinic. Many spouses accuse their significant others of having

“selective hearing” or not listening to them in certain situations, but the fact of the matter is it can be very difficult for a person to hear with other noises present. This is understandably a very frustrating situation for both parties involved and can certainly lead to ten-sion in a relationship. Unfortunately, those with hearing impairment may be blissfully unaware they are have hearing difficulty. But - Did you know that research indicates the divorce rate is significantly higher for those couples where one person has unaddressed hearing loss? Maybe that’s not too surprising in light of the importance of communication in any relationship.

The following are the “Top Ten Rules to Live By”(adapted from Audiology As-sociates of Georgia,http://www.hearga.com/help_others/ten_commandments_for_living_with_person_hard_of_hear-ing.html) when communicating with a loved one with hearing loss or hearing devices:

1. Be patient. Remember that a person who is beginning to use hearing devices is like a child beginning to talk, listen, and understand. They are starting to hear sounds in a new way. It is im-portant to be patient with them and ask them to be patient with you while you both adjust to this new, but good, change.

Healthy Hearing

Dr. Bettie Borton Au. D.

2. Accept reality. This new paradigm not only affects the person with hearing impairment, but everyone they encoun-ter in their life.

3. Speak slowly. Take your time when communicating with your loved one. Try not to rush through what you are saying and be sure to enunciate. Talking louder isn’t always the solution; try slowing your rate of speech.

4. Don’t shout. When people yell, the person they are talking to may think the speaker is angry with them. It is important to just speak more distinctly and slowly.

5. Appreciate difficult listening situa-tions. Listening when the water is run-ning is a very difficult task. Try thinking of the television, the washing machine, and even someone else in the room car-rying on a conversation on the phone as difficult listening situations. Those with hearing impairment may find it really hard to block out sounds while they are trying to focus on what you are saying.

6. Don’t talk with your back to the person with a hearing loss. The best way for someone to get the full advan-tage of communication is if you are fac-ing them when you are talking to them. We use gestures, facial cues, and lip reading to aid us in communication.

7. Don’t walk away while you are still talking. If you are mid-sentence, try to stay focused on and close to the person with whom you are talking. You want them to be able to hear all of the conversation and not just part of it.

8. Agree on a signal when he or she is talking too loud. People with hearing loss may not be able to monitor their own voice as well. It’s important to let them know when they are talking too

Honey, I Can’t Hear You When the Water’s Running…

loudly. Clarity of speech isn’t just in loudness, but being more distinct in your speaking.

9. Have a heart. Hearing loss is very frustrating and adjusting to new hear-ing devices can be challenging for all concerned. You, as the spouse, can be a vital part of the process. Just try to remember to be patient, encouraging and kind through this process.

10. Don’t show annoyance. Some-times even in the most appropriate environment you may have to repeat. Just try to remain calm and repeat what you are trying to say in a different way.

Always remember that communica-tion is a two-way street, and essential in all successful relationships. When your spouse or a loved one is diagnosed with hearing impairment, this begins a longer journey to retrain the brain with regard to effective listening with hearing devices, and developing good communication tips and techniques for all concerned. This is a process and takes time. The person with the hearing impairment needs support and under-standing, and we hope these tips will help improve communication with your loved ones.

To learn more, visit doctorshearingclinic.com or call Doctors Hearing Clinic at (334) 396-1635.

Dr. Bettie B. Borton is a licensed audiologist in Alabama, was the first board certified audiologist in Montgomery, served as National Chair of the American Board of Audiology, and was recently elected as President Elect of the American Academy of Audiology.

Co-authored by: Brittany Spahr,B.G.S. Doctoral Student in Audiology, LSU Medical Center

By Dr. Bettie Borton Au.D.


“Living near Lake Jordan in Elmore County, driving down the country roads, I am re-minded daily of how fortunate I am to live in the South. You see, I was born at Fitts Hill Hospital on the corner of Church and Catoma. Those of us from and living in the South all our lives always give the details, we love to tell stories,” says Shirley Esco.

When Shirley was a little girl, she never had very much time to play with dolls, she and her family lived in the country. Shirley said,”I had cowgirl boots as far back as I can remember and those boots were usually one step behind my daddy. I can remem-

ber while I was waiting for him to finish talking to someone about cows, horses or bailing hay, I was drawing pictures in the sand with a stick. I also remember my mother inviting our neighbors over to see my drawing,

she was so proud.” Esco lived in Elmore County all of her life, she graduated from Holtville High School, married and had a son and a daughter.

As an adult she took three years of Com-mercial Art at Auburn Montgomery while working for Regions Bank and decided that wasn’t for her. Shirley shared, “ I have always loved the Lord and my church, Cain’s Chapel in Slapout, Alabama. I liked to paint everything, including walls, so I painted murals throughout the children’s wing of the church. There is a long hallway and four rooms with scenes from the Bible, Adam and Eve to the Resurrection.” Retiring from Regions Bank was the begin-ning of the second half of her life. Dan, her

husband, was so support-ive of her and her painting. Shortly after she retired, Dan was diag-nosed with esopha-geal cancer. He fought a heroic battle, but the cancer won. “ My faith in God, my family, many friends and my painting were my salvation” said Shir-ley. Her son lives in Florida, her daughter lives nearby and she has two grandsons, Hunter and Drew. Last year she put in a swimming pool. She says “ When the days are hot and long, I seem to have a lot of company, and I like that.”

Esco’s work is considered representa-tional and she paints with oil, acrylic and watercolor. “ There is a certain feeling of freedom when using different mediums. If asked about my favorite subject, this is an easy question to answer, it is landscape” she said. Joining the Montgomery Art Guild in 1995 and the Elmore County Art Guild in 2001 have been wonderful experi-ences in her art journey as well as joining with Gallery One Fine Art in 2007. Her website is www.galleryonefineart.com/shir-leyesco with bio information.

Her strong southern roots run very deep. “Clouds capture my imagination whether it is a reflection in the water or a brewing storm. I can sit for hours, soaking up the beauty of a peaceful lake scene or the rural view of miles of cotton fields on both sides of a dirt road” she says.

She is traveling more these days and I can see in her recent paintings, it is so reward-ing for her to see someone look at one of

her paintings and recognize a place they have visited. Like the paintings from her trip to Sea Island, Georgia. They begin to tell her their story, why they were there and what they enjoyed the most. Esco said “ Last Spring I received some infor-mation on a 21 day tour of the Pacific Rim and just men-tioned I would love

to go, but not by myself. My fifteen year old grandson, Hunter Fulmer, said he would like to go, we did and made memories we will both cherish for a long, long time.”

Her next adven-ture is coming up in October. She is traveling to the Amalfi Coast, Italy and staying at LaBussola Hotel studing with Dee Beard Dean from Charleston, S.C.

So, from finance to fine art, from rural Elmore County to the Amalfi Coast in Italy, her mother would be so pleased to see she continues her love of creating art.

Featured Art ist This Month, Shir ley Esco

“Sunlit Fields” 36x48 acrylic on canvas

Shirley, a member of the tour and Hunter Fulmer, grandson

Visit Gallery One Fine Art423 Cloverdale Road, Montgomery, AL Gallery Director Sandi [email protected]


Art & Soul By Sandi Aplin

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

Montgomery Art Guild (MAG), Montgomery Gallery Association and Regions Bank have a lovely afternoon planned for the River Region. MAG President, Thornton Clark shared, “We are delighted Regions Bank is hosting their annual show for the 46th year. We are excited with the upcoming opening reception, awards presentations and ARTrek to the participating galleries.” The Opening Reception is from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. with the awards presentation at 1:30 p.m. This show of celebrated regional artist’s works are located on the 2nd Floor of the Regions Bank, 201 Monroe Street, downtown Montgomery. The exhibition will be on display from September 16th through September 28th.

The following members of The Montgomery Gallery Association participating in ARTrek will be open from noon to 5pm and are listed in Alphabetical order as follows:Alabama Artist Gallery201 Monroe Street Suite 110 (1st Floor)“From Heart and Home” – works from the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. From its inception, the museum’s collection of Ameri-can Art has been rich in material related to the art of Alabamians—those that were tra-ditionally schooled in art academies from New York to Paris—as well as the products of everyday artists with diverse skills and backgrounds. The paintings, sculpture and mixed-media works that are included in this exhibi-tion reflect the quality of works on view at the museum’s facility in the Blount Cultural Park.

Anita P. Folmer Art GalleryArmory Learning Arts Center1018 Madison AvenueFeaturing a variety of styles and me-dia by local award-winning artists.

Gallery EastPeppertree Shopping Center8103 Vaughn RoadServing the River Region since 1989, Gallery East is Montgomery’s premier

art gallery and frame shop. Gallery East offers an eclectic mix of original fine art, photogra-phy, classic and contemporary prints and gift items.

Gallery One Fine Art423 Cloverdale Road“Jim Sabel, Retrospect” Works by Jim Sabel in acrylic, water color and mono-prints. Jim was one of the founding members of Gallery One Fine Art. His memory is cherished by all of our members. Gallery One is honored to share his life’s work, his love of painting and his support of the arts. This show will hang from September 16th through the 30th.

Marcia Weber Art Objects1050 Woodley Road“Between the Fine Lines of Folk and Outsider Art” This exhibition features important self-taught Alabama artists Woodie Long, Mose Tolliver, Michael Banks, Annie Tolliver, Bernice Sims, Annie Lucas, Ruth Robinson and Mary Whitfield continuing through October 30th.

Sac’s GalleryWaterfront Show and Competition Union Station Downtown This reception to meet the artists, will be at the Montgomery Visitor Center, 300 Water Street, September 16th 1 to 5pm. The exhibit will be on display through the 28th

Stonehenge Gallery1041 East Fairview AvenueTimothy Vaught and Barbara Davis will be featured in an exhibit featuring works of oil paintings on canvas.

The Dauber Gallery, in “The Alley” 130 Commerce Street, DowntownAn exhibition of watercolor paintings by Margaret Dauber and photographs by Mark Dauber.

The Gallery at Prattville Creative Arts Center 342 Chestnut Street, Prattville“Kellie Newsome: Colorful Expressions” A new resident to Prattville and professional

artist, Kellie will be filling the walls with her vibrant and expressive portraits, contempo-rary prints and gift items.

It’s worth the drive just to experience the work of local and regional artists as well as talented painters from around the world.

Sandi Aplin, Director of Gallery One Fine ArtA free lance writer living in Montgomery, Alabamawww.galleryonefineart.com


As a woman’s 40th birthday recedes in the rear-view mirror, she sees a Facebook photo of herself and faces reality: Her makeup routine isn’t working for her anymore. She turns to Jodi Risley, an artist and educator for Make Up For Ever, where women know how to look good at every age.“On a daily basis, women come in and say, ‘My makeup doesn’t look as good as it used to,’ and they’re almost freaking out,” Risley said.

Risley’s intervention might consist f the following tips and tricks.Reconsider your foundation. “A lot of women choose foundation that is too light for their skin.” Choose a shade that’s slightly deeper, one that matches your decollete, and you’ll need less blush, which can look artificial. “Women are afraid they’re going to have that dark foundation line around their neck,” Risley acknowledges. But modern formulations reduce that risk. “Particularly with our HD Foundation, the technology is a perfectly round amino acid so it moves with the skin and you won’t have that line.” You might need to switch to a hydrating formula if your skin has become dry. Because of that tendency, Risley recommends colorless fine powder to finish the look, and only if necessary on oily zones, rather than heavier pigmented powder.

Add pinks and peaches. “Think about youth, and mimic those colors,” Risley said, citing Diane Sawyer as an example of how flattering pinks and peaches can be. “A lot of older women wear more browns because they think it’s neutral, but brown brings you down.” Apply pink/peach blushes to the plumpest part of the cheeks when you smile. Using pinks on lips, with lip liner applied strategically, can also compensate for volume loss. Technique is key. “A common mistake women make when applying lip liner is drawing a continuous line starting and ending at the same corner of the mouth. The result is uneven lips.” Instead, apply lip liner starting at outer corner and stopping at the middle of the Cupid’s bow. Repeat on the opposite corner and on each half of the lower lips.

Tend to the brows. “It’s the one feature that can give women a 5- to 10-year face-lift,” Risley said. “It’s that significant.” She prefers warm tones. “A lot of women tend toward ashy colors on brows. If you put a caramel color on, instead of taupe, that will warm up your complexion.” Well-groomed eyebrows also counteract heavy eyelids, and, like a deeper foundation shade, reduce the need for color elsewhere on the face.

Drop black mascara. Risley recently trained an ABC makeup artist and suggested moving some female anchors away from

black mascara and liner, which can look harsh, to brown-black. “A brown-black mascara still gives you definition, but it’s not as dramatic.”

Try “tight-lining” eyes. Instead of lining outside the lash line, line inside the lash line. “As we mature, we lose lashes. This creates the illusion of thick lashes, and it makes the whites of the

eyes look brighter. You don’t have to worry about a straight line, which can be hard to achieve if the lids are becoming crepe-y.” She recommends using a smudgeproof or waterproof eye pencil. “You just lift the lid slightly and put it right inside the lashes.” She also likes putting creamy eye shadows on a smudge brush (one that comes to a point) and softly spreading that beneath the lower lash line. “You still get the definition, but it’s softer. When you do a straight, solid line, it actually closes the eyes.”

WHAT ABOUT YOUR EYES?Your eyes are the windows to, well, your age! In fact, studies have shown that when strangers are asked to judge how old a person is, the eye area is one of the biggest influences. For the best beauty products and ideas for eyes that look brighter and more youthful (and like you’ve actually gotten some sleep!), follow these makeup tips, eye cream suggestions, and at-home beauty remedies. Caffeinate Your Eyes, Naturally: Tea bags are a great at-home natural beauty trick to perk up tired-looking, puffy eyes. “The caffeine helps shrink the underlying dark blood vessels and forces out some of the liquid that creates puffiness,” explains Ava Shamban, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at UCLA. Soak tea bags in hot water for a minute before plunging them into ice water for a few seconds. Lie down and apply them directly to your eyes for 15 minutes. Camouflage Crow’s-Feet: Nix heavy cover-up, which makes lines more obvious, says Matin Maulawizada of Laura Mercier Cosmetics. Instead, brighten the area with concealer under the outer third of your lower lashes and a creamy highlighter just below any lines. Get “Wow” Lashes: Before applying mascara, when eyelashes are clean and dry (wet ones post-shower won’t hold a curl), position the curler at the root of the lashes and give three firm, gentle pumps. Release and repeat _ holding it steady doesn’t create a natural-looking, fluid curl. For even better curl, heat your curler with your blow-dryer for 15 seconds first. “The warmth holds the bend better,” says makeup artist Mally Roncal. Distributed by MCT Information Services

Beauty Tips for the Rest of Us


chase.com), and don’t miss the 5th Annual Open Car & Truck Show, 9am- 3pm, at East-Chase near Dillards (www.capitolcitycorvettes.com).

MONTGOMERY DOWNTOWNRobert Earl Keen ConcertMPAC Downtown MontgomeryFriday, September 14 at 7:30 pmAs a singer and songwriter, Robert Earl Keen built a reputation as one of the nation’s finest

musical storytellers. He paints vivid musical portraits with songs that are infused with such deep insight and humor that a new meaning and perspective is revealed with each song. His music grows even more profound with time.

Artists including George Strait, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Lyle Lovett and the Dixie Chicks continue to record Keen’s songs year after year. For more info and tickets http://www.mpaconline.org

LEEDSLeeds Downtown Folk Festival and John Henry CelebrationDowntown Leeds, AlabamaSaturday/Sunday, September 15-16Come to historic downtown Leeds and celebrate the roots, richness and variety of Alabama culture Sept. 15-16. You can bring the whole family to the fifth annual Leeds

Downtown Folk Festival and John Henry Celebration, featuring a juried art

show and sale, live music, lots of activities for kids, antique cars, ethnic and regional food, and more. A special event at this year’s fes-

{12 Things} for active boomers and beyond

September 2012

PIKE ROADJazz on the GrassRolling Hills ParkMonday, September 3, 11-7 pmThe seventh annual Jazz on the Grass festival will be held Monday, September 3rd at Rolling

Hills Park in the Town of Pike Road. WVAS 90.7 FM and the Alabama Jazz and Blues Fed-eration produce the annual festival. This

year’s concert will feature saxophonist, flau-tist and vocalist Marcus Anderson, the Capital Jazz Fest Challenge Winner. Other featured artists include saxophonist Vincent Ingala; vocalist Jilla Webb and her ensemble; drum-mer James “PJ” Spraggins; and, the area’s most famous jazz big band, The Montgomery Recreators. Special guests will include vocalist Brandon Cox, a Deatsville native and contes-tant on this season’s “American Idol.” The festival will also include a variety of vendors offering everything from food to arts and crafts. Advance tickets are $15 for adults and children older than 12. They can be purchased as several River Region locations, including Pike Road Town Hall and Pike Road Grocery-The Butcher Shop. Tickets at the gate will be $20. For more information, contact Candy Capel at WVAS FM at 229-4708 or Mayor Gordon Stone at 272-9883.

MONTGOMERYBallet and the BeastsMontgomery ZooFriday, September 7, 6-10 pmMark your calendar today to make plans to visit the Montgomery Zoo for this FREE performance put on by the Montgomery Ballet Company. Enjoy classics as well as original choreography. Admission is FREE. Feel free to bring lawn chairs, blankets, picnics and enjoy this performance under the stars. Gates open

at 6 pm, performance will begin at dusk (ap-proximately 7 pm). More info 334. 240.4900. www.montgomeryzoo.com. The Montgomery Zoo is friends on facebook, twitter, myspace, youtube and flickr.

BILOXIBiloxi Seafood FestivalBiloxi Town GreenSeptember 8 & 9For over 31 years the Biloxi Seafood Festival has been held as a celebration of Biloxi’s

rich culture, heritage, and connection to the seafood industry. The two-day festival features continuous live entertainment, an array of seafood, Sunday’s Gumbo Contest, arts & craft booths,

and children’s activities. www.biloxi.org/events

MONTGOMERYBig Brothers Big Sisters Family FitnessWalk/Run 12The Shoppes at EastchaseSaturday, September 8, 8 am 5K and 10K Walk/Run, Electronic TimingNo-Cost Child Care, “Boot Camp” Warm-upPost-Run Street Party, Discount Shopping

Passes. Big Brothers Big Sisters Program, “Our work is as elemen-tary as putting a friend in a child’s life, and as essential as putting hope into a child’s future.” for more info visit www.fami-

lyguidancecenter.org. After the Walk/Run, join us for the Street Party. Lunch will be provided to all 5K, 10K, and Virtual registrants. Guests are invited to purchase an additional Meal Tickets for $5.00 each. Also, be sure to enjoy your Discount Shopping Pass to The Shoppes at EastChase after the race (theshoppesateast-


I t ’s a Great T ime to Be Booming! Please submit any events/pictures to

j [email protected]

tival is a symposium about John Henry, steel driven’ man and local legend. The festival will be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 15, and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 16. Festival admission and parking are free. For more information, call 699-1892 or go to www.leedsfolkfestival.org.

HARPERSVILLEGrape StompSaturday, September 15, 10 - 4 pmTake off your shoes, jump in barefoot to one of the winery’s many barrels and crush grapes in the style of winemakers of old. Every Grape

Stomp par-ticipant leaves with their very own personal (and purple) souvenir of the day’s events. There’s even

a Lucy-look-alike contest with cash prizes for those willing to dress up as the ultimate grape-stomper. Music by Bonus Round Admission is $10/person. Parking, winery tours and wine tasting are also included in the admission price. Bring your own food or pick up something from Full Moon BBQ. Approximately 90 miles from Montgomery. 181 Morgan Creek Lane, Harpersville, AL, 205.672.2073, www.morgancreekwinery.com

MONTGOMERYZoobilationMontgomery Zoo Thursday, Septeber 20, 6 pmCelebrating its 40th Anniversary at its current location, the night will include a shmor-gishborg of great-tasting food; cocktails and specialty drinks; energized live entertainment, action-packed live and silent auctions and many more surprises. Mingle with corporate executives, local dignitaries and area business people while making new friends and con-tacts in a truly relaxing and distinctive venue. From its humble beginning in the 1920s in Oak Park, the Montgomery Zoo has blos-somed into a major zoological facility. Tickets are $50 per person. All guests must be 21 years or older to attend. For more informa-tion please call 334.240.4900. Tickets can be purchased online at www.montgomeryzoo.com

MONTGOMERYBallet Magnificat PresentsThe Arrival and Deliver UsFrazer Sunday, September 23, 6 pm Ballet Magnificat!, America’s premierechristian ballet company, presentsThe Arrival and Deliver Us. Ballet Magnificat!

was founded in 1986. Magnificat is Latin for “to magnify Him”. It is derived from “Mary’s Song” of praise in the 1st

Chapter of the the Gospel of Luke when she first learned she was to be the mother of the Messiah. Ballet Magnificat! is an arts orga-nization dedicated to presenting the good news of Jesus Christ to the whole world. For more info call 334.272.8622, for tickets www.itickets.com or the Frazer Bookstore. www.balletmagnificat.com

TITUSTitus Bluegrass FestivalTitus Community CenterSeptember 24Four guys walk on stage with a banjo, a fiddle, an acoustic guitar, a mandolin, and an upright bass. Soon, the sounds of good ol’ bluegrass

float across the field. September 29th will be a day where a normally quiet, out-of-the-way area in rural Elmore County is

magically transformed into a community of great performers, enthusiastic fans, devoted volunteers, nonstop jamming, scrumptious barbeque, and booths filled with crafts, cook-books, and peanuts. The 12th annual Titus Bluegrass Festival, scheduled to begin at 10 am and continue until 6 pm, allows attendees to relax and enjoy the picking and grinning of live bluegrass music. The Titus Community Center is a shady grove that is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed day. Admission is $5.00 for adults and children under 12 get in free. The Titus Community Center is located approximately 10 miles north of Wetumpka on U.S. Highway 231, then north on County Road 29. More information is available on the web at http://www.titusbluegrassfestival.com or by contacting Hinton at 334.567.9059. Bring your favorite lawn chair and your

friends. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the best of today’s bluegrass music. This is a won-derful festival; a place where you can bring the entire family and have a great time.

HAMPSTEADFarm to Fork Annual Food InvasionHampstead Farms, MontgomeryThursday, September 27, 6:30 pm The culinary invasion strikes Alabama again with the 3rd annual Farm-to-Fork Food Inva-sion at Hampstead Farms in Montgomery. Join us for a family-style outdoor farm dinner and exclusive experience with this year’s celebrated “invading” guest chefs Alon Shaya, 2012 James Beard Award nominee, and celebrated pastry chef, Lisa White, of John Besh’s popular Domenica Restaurant in New Orleans. The Big Easy-based culinary team will use local ingredients for the three-course dinner, sourced within inches of a guest’s seat at the table or from local Alabama suppliers and purveyors. Tickets must be purchased in at https://www.xorbia.com/event/?id=7503

PINTLALA2012 Glassner Autumn ChallengeBike RidePintlala Baptist ChurchSaturday, September 29, 8 am Choose your challenge and join the fun! How challenging do you want your ride? Pick from the Smell the Roses 30, the Fabulous Fives 55, the Mad Metric Century 62, or the Coura-geous Century 100. No matter what distance you choose, you will be biking the beautiful, tree-lined, rural roads of central Alabama, with mechanical support, sag wagons, and rest stops supplied with plenty of fruit, light

snacks, water, and sports drinks. The short routes offer gen-tly rolling hills, while the longer

routes offer moderately rolling hills. The ride will begin and end at Pintlala Baptist Church where a delicious all-you-can-eat pancake (and much more!) breakfast will be served by the Pintlala Baptist Church in the fellowship hall from 6:30 to 8:00 a.m. For more info and registration www.mgmbikeclub.org


It was 1982. Hard to believe that’s 3 decades ago!

My Dad, and fellow Libran, was getting ready to turn the Big 6-OH.

The significance of Pops’ benchmark birthday was not lost on me- but what to do that would make it special?

In 1982, cable TV was just coming into promi-nence. ESPN was still a baby on the block and was filling time with Australian Rules Football. There was just one HBO.

There was also the brand new Cinemax, and about a month before Dad’s Big Birthday, I noticed they were showing a movie called “The Spirit of St. Louis”.

The light bulb popped on over my head!“Perfect”, I thought.

Pops and I shared a mutual love of aviation. During brutal Chicago winters, we’d spend Sat-urday afternoon in the family igloo assembling model airplanes. His always looked showroom quality. Mine, not so much. It was fun.

Any time there was a good “airplane” movie on TV, we’d watch it together.

One night he announced that “Spirit” was go-ing to be on and I could stay up late to watch it with him. “What’s it about?”, I asked. “Two hours long”, he joked. “It’s about the plane Charles Lindbergh flew across the Atlantic in 1927.”

Noticing I was unimpressed - I mean we had just recently seen John Glenn orbit the earth - he went on to explain “I was 5 years old when Lindbergh made this flight. It was big news. Everyone was amazed, because nobody thought a plane would be able to fly that far non-stop.”

The movie was coming on at 10:30 on a Saturday night. Mom made real popcorn on the stove in cooking oil. I was grateful for the privilege of a late night movie!

The film, starring Jimmy Stewart, is a clas-sic. Until I saw it on the Cinemax schedule 20 years later, I didn’t know it was made in color because we hadn’t purchased our first color TV in 1963.

This became a tradition. Every time “Spirit” was on, Dad would let me know and we’d watch it together.

My idea was to send Dad the movie with a note telling him how much I treasured those movie nights. The challenge in 1982 was getting someone to record it- because I had neither Cinemax or a VHS recorder - and it was sched-uled to be broadcast the next day.

I did have a radio job. I announced the plot on my morning show and offered $50 bucks to anyone who had Cinemax and could record the movie for me. One guy called, and said he could do it.

Then there was the matter of an appropriate card. Reverting (again) to childhood, I opted for something home made. I grabbed one of my publicity pictures and cut it to size, and placed a hand-lettered cartoon balloon with the words “Happy 60th Mine Poppa.”

The morning after “Spirit” aired on Cinemax, my helpful listener called to claim success and said he’d drop the tape off at the station. He wouldn’t take my money because he thought the whole idea was cool - and said “tell your old man I wished him a happy birthday.”

I have been blessed with a career full of great and generous listeners. In 1982, a blank VHS tape sold for about $15!

With the tape in hand, and the card complete, I set about expressing my gratitude to Dad in short, sweet terms I knew he’d appreciate. I bought special packaging to protect the tape and sent it off Special Delivery so it would arrive in time for the dreaded #60 (Mom tipped me off that he was not embracing the landmark birthday with good cheer).

When the big day arrived, Dad called and told me “what a great idea” it was, and thanked me.

In 1994 when my sister and I were going through Dad’s stuff following his sudden death from a heart attack, I found the movie, card and note tucked in a dresser drawer. That was a discovery that produced many tears, most of them in gratitude for the warm memories of a late night movie, real popcorn and my first post-midnight bed time.

I tucked it into my suitcase and brought it home with me after the funeral.

Recently, I was going through stuffed packed away in boxes to make room for more stuff packed away in boxes when I came across one that contained the few VHS tapes that survived the technological revolutions of the last 30 years. There was “Spirit”, plus the card and letter in remarkably good condition.

A few more tears, please. All good.

Now it’s my turn. On the 27th of this month, I hit the Big 6-OY! I am reluctant to announce my age to you, dear readers because I feel as if I am hanging an “I’M OLD NOW SO EVERY-THING YOU READ HERE IS IRRELEVANT” sign around my neck.

60 is different today than it was for Pops, and no doubt one day when my daughter reaches that age, 60 will bear little resemblance to how it looks today. If predictions are accurate, 60 may simply be the halfway mark in life.

My celebration will be simple. I will reconnect the VCR and play “Spirit”- and pop some corn in oil. If my daughter does what I asked, she’ll send me a home made card, and that will be it.

Seriously though, how could it be any better?

“Genes of My Father” (turning the big 6-OY!)

Greg Budell lives in Montgomery with his dog Hershey. He’s a 25 year veteran of radio who hosts the Greg & Susan morning show 6-9 am and Happy Hour 3-6 pm on Newstalk 107.9, Greg can be reached at [email protected]

By Greg BudellMALE CALL

boom! september 2012

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