Mature Times - May 2012

7/31/2019 Mature Times - May 2012

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Thursday, May 31, 2012

INSIDE

FINANCIAL

Financial Informationby Jay Brooks

Page 14

HEALTH

Diet and nutritionadvice by Cynthia Catts

Page 10

Ashley believes in a

positive attitudeBy Midge RothrockAttitude can make such a difference.

We all know this, and Jeanette Ashley

certainly has made this a centerpiece

in the learning she imparts to her

students. Jeanette has taught all

ages and stages of learners, with a

particular bias for fifth graders and for

adults in ESL or pursuing diplomas

and GEDs.

Right now, one can find this talented

teacher spending her time between

working with the English as a Second

Language adults at South Aiken

High School during the evening, or

midday with the women between ages21-24 who are pursuing their GEDs

and diplomas at the Byrd Learning

Center, while their children are at the

Freedman Parenting Center. Cherell

Butler is the Centers Coordinator,

where there is also a nurse and a

doctor on site. These young women

divide their day between academics,

learning job skills, and enhancing

their parenting skills. Clemson

Extension teaches topics such as

Nutrition and Communications. It can

be a remarkable solution to the needs

of these women at this challenging

juncture in their lives. This Center

surely seems to be a worthy recipient

of grant funds.

When Miss Ashley is not with

her students, she spends time with

Mrs. Louvenia Patterson, her beloved

mother, who is recovering from some

challenging health issues, as well as

being a widow.

Jeanettes ESL students are studying

English and Reading. Jeanette has

done this job she loves for three years

at SAHS. (In North Carolina, earlier

in her career, Jeanette developed her

skills with ESL students, although

these ESL students were Vietnamese

youngsters, for the most part).

This teacher requires those in her

classroom to converse in English,

even when she is not in the room,or they are on break. The students

in this evening class are from Peru,

El Salvador, Bangladesh, and Viet

Nam. Their admirable goals are

to earn citizenship while speaking

English. Jeanette has designed real

life situations, doing roleplay for

things like telephone conversations,

Jeanette Ashley has spent over 40

years as an educator and mentor.

See Jeanette page 4


2/16


Q. As a single mom in my40s Im embarrassed to sayIve done nothing about estateplanning. A recent medicalscare has caused me to pauseand now consider planning

a priority. Any words ofwisdom before I do a will?

A. About 73% percent ofparents have no will and somethat do are unaware that theirkids are not fully protected bytheir existing estate plan. So

here are some common issuesto address:

1. Name a Guardian.Only name a married coupleas guardian of your childrenif you intend for both peopleto serve alone as primarycaregiver for your children. If

not select the person, possiblya sibling or grandparent,you really have in mind andthen, if possible, also choosean alternate guardian. Beaware that in South Carolinathere is a presumption thatthe biological father is asuitable person to raise the

children. If drug or alcoholabuse, sexual or physicalabuse, serious mental illnessor other reasons contributedto a divorce that would putthe child(ren) at risk, then besure to mention the same inyour will so the probate courtis alerted to the problem(s)and the proposed guardianhas some evidence to fightcustody.

2. Financial Issues. Donot focus solely on someonesfinancial resources whendeciding who should raise

your children. It is your jobto provide for the child(ren)through life insurance andother assets. Before youdespair that you dont havenearly enough to providefor them, remember yourchild(ren) would likely

qualify for Social Securitybenefits on your earningrecord until they are 18 orleave high school. Youcan name a separate personin your will to serve asconservator for the child(ren)or set up an appropriate trustto protect a portion of assets

until the child(ren) are adults.Both of these options may

be needed. You probablyshould discuss long termcare planning options withyour attorney and possiblyadditional life insurance tofund goals for yourself andthe child(ren).

3. Legacy Planning. Inaddition to the usual terms ofa will be sure to do some reallegacy planning that passesthe intangible gifts of dreams,ideals, family heritage, andlove to your child(ren). Suchitems might include a journalor diary, scrapbook, family

photos, genealogy, familystories recorded in video,audio or writing, newspaperclippings, military records,family recipes, and otherfamily heirlooms that havelittle monetary value but a

lot of emotional connection.Use a personal propertymemorandum to decide whogets these things. Legacy

planning can also includebusiness succession planning,charitable objectives, a lastletter(s) possibly saying what

you want to be rememberedfor, what you are proudof or see as your biggestaccomplishments, lifelessons you want to pass onor discussing someone thathad a great influence in yourlife. My grandmother whoraised 10 children alone after

her husband died left meher sugar cookie recipe. Itis legendary. As her healthfailed, Mum, my husbandsmother, left me hours andhours of wisdom on how notto complain with pain andinsights on how to build asolid marriage. She framed a

poem she lived by with somesimple lace that I cherish.

4. Other parts of a solidplan. An estate plan may startwith a simple will, but shouldinclude a health care and afinancial power of attorney.Your children may not be oldenough now to serve as youragent, but you should discusswith your attorney how theseessential documents can later

be modified when they aremature enough to handle suchresponsibilities.

Boomer Briefings: Q & A

If you have a question for

Boomer Briefings:

Write to Attorney Knapp at

P.O. Box 714,

Barnwell, SC 29812 or fax

a question to

803-541-7677 or e-mailher at lfknapp@bellsouth.

net. Questions may be

rephrased and all answers

will be addressed only in

Boomer Briefings articles.

Attorney Linda Farron Knapp

is a member of the NationalAcademy of Elder Law Attorneys.


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3Thursday, May 31, 2012


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visits to stores, conversations with

their childrens teachers, and having

names for common items in their

kitchen and living room, to relate to

the real needs of these adults. Jeanetteknows her adult ESL students already

are accomplished in their lives, often

educated to professions in their own

country before coming to US. They

know ABCs, how to count money,

and are grateful for the realistic role

playing offered in Jeanettes classes,

feeling pride as they learn and grow,

and get better at communicating ineveryday situations encountered.

Jeanette is a local, born in Aiken

County, and raised by her parents with

brother Ernest Bernard Patterson.

This brother has a son and daughter.

In turn, they have made Jeanette a

great aunt to four nieces, whom she

declares adorable.

Johnson C. Smith University in

Charlotte, North Carolina is where

Jeanette received her Bachelors

in Psychology, with an area of

concentration in Special Ed. She

also gained additional education

credentials at Augusta College (now

ASU), which helped her transition

into teaching students in regular

classrooms. She further pursued

(by distance learning) her Mastersin Curriculum and Instruction from

Leslie University, Cambridge,

Massachusetts. Always a fan of the

arts, Jeanette focused on integrating

them into academics throughout her

life personally and in her career. A

highpoint in her own educational

pursuits included seeing Alvin Ailey

Dancers at her school, doing two

remarkable routines still stuck in her

memory (the Lords Prayer, and a

baseball game, all in beautiful slow

motion dance movement).With the background in SpecialEducation, this talented teacheroften requested to be assignedthose children in regular classeswho were considered slower, orhad challenges with reading, math,

emotional or social skills. Often,Miss Ashley could bring out thebest in them, letting small victoriesimprove their confidence and attitude,while improving their academicstanding. From 1974 to 1991, fifthgrade students at Richmond County

benefitted from these dedicated,focused teaching skills, a place whereshe returned to teach in 1995.

Sometimes the best lessons forteachers come through their ownlife experiences. After a difficultmarriage, this teacher sought waysto learn more about herself throughcounseling. By working on improvingher confidence, with the right attitude,

welcome healing took place. At thetime, Jeanette was in MecklenburgDistrict in Charlotte. Whilethere, she saw an ad for a summertraining job, whose requirementsincluded psychology and sociologybackground. With her uniqueeducation, this certainly appealed. So,from 1991 to 1995, Jeanette taughtESL in North Carolina, and knowing

that a change of scenery might aidin her rebounding from this unhappymarriage.

In 1995, she returned to RichmondCounty Schools, living in Augustaand teaching at Tobacco RoadElementary School until 2000. Thecommute from her Augusta homewas challenging to this daughter, sodevoted to both her parents and her

students, often the last teacher toleave her school, assisting studentswith after school sessions and makingcertain all was ready for the nextschool day. Her father was ill, andher mothers own health requiredJeanette to make the trek 2-3 timesa week to New Ellenton to assist.Finally, in 2000 until 2003, she tookadvantage of an opening and returnedto Redcliffe Elementary School whereshe had taught effectively many yearsprior. Then, in 2003, RichmondCounty school system became awelcome option closer to Jeanetteshome, so she could continue to assistwith the health of her ailing parents.She stayed at Redcliffe this time until2011.

Along the way, Jeanette had a

particularly wonderful Teaching

Assistant who learned to fit thisdemanding teachers needs well.The TA was a former missionaryfrom Texas who had never workedin a school; rather she had been asecretary. Jeanette, able to chooseher own TA, and was drawn to thisperson not only for her organizationalskills, but because of her spirit, toneand vibe. Together, they made a very

good team, with the TA realizingour gifted teacher was Picky but,in a good way! Picky? Even theclassroom needed to be inviting, withlighting and area rugs enhancing thelearning environment.

Issues of the Sandwich Generationare not new to readers. Fortunately,Jeanettes brother was able to carefor their mother during the day, while

this caring daughter tended to hermothers needs at night. In 2010, inaddition to her serious heart troubles,Mrs. Patterson was diagnosed withbreast cancer. Her treatment tookplace at MUSC, again challengingthe distance of Jeanettes commute.Fortunately, Louvinias own sisterlives in Charleston, and she wasable to stay there during her MUSC

treatments.

In 2011, the time came for Jeanetteto acknowledge she needed a breakfrom her daytime teaching dutieswith her younger students. They hadbegun to require more classroommanagement, with some examples ofserious behavioral problems. Beingso fastidious, the demands of youngstudents and aging family caused a

burnout of sorts. Yes, the co-workersat her school were so willing to agreeto help and cover for her absencesdemanded by her mothers healthcrises, but Jeanette realized she justtruly needed a break. Signs includedthat she was not as detailed in her

classroom preparation, and her owncreativity. Previously she had thrivedby even adding Saturday school, afterschool, and all kinds of programs toher busy teaching days.

This break has been a good one,allowing Jeanette to refresh andreplenish (except for the benefits ofa full time teaching salary!). Shewill hope to return to the classroom

again in August of 2012, and wouldespecially welcome an opportunityto continue working with individualspursuing GEDs.

How did her current positions withESL and young women pursuingdegrees come about? Dr. RosaIshmal, Aiken County AdultEducation Director, had been a friendand colleague of Jeanettes. Workingwith adults who are genuinelyinterested in learning was likeHeaven to Jeanette. These studentsare respectful, interested in thesubjects being taught, and really wantto learn. They also think Miss Ashleyis funny, which delights her!

Dr. Ishmal, overall Director of theCenter, successfully pursued a Family

Literacy Grant, in March of 2012.She knew her friend Jeanette hadskills and interests and now eventhe time to work with these youngwomen affiliated with the FreedmanParenting Center. Two days aweek, Jeanette helps them with jobinterests and career choices. They arediscussing keeping positive attitudes,work ethics, causes of absenteeism,and skills related to identifying,

securing and keeping jobs. Broughtinto the round table discussions byJeanette are folks who actually workin banking, cosmetology, nursing,communications and other careerfields matching their potential futurecareer interests. The young womenare attentive and eager to learn howbest to provide for their families.Several of them took their GED

Jeanette...from page 1

Jeanette Ashley


5/16


Correction

A correction to last months feature storyabout Al Bey is in order:

Phil VanLeeuwen is still involved in Menfor Him at St. Paul Lutheran Church, aswell as many other church activities. Hehas been a significant leader at St. Paulfor the past 12 years.

By: William WelshI would like to thank the children

of Hedy Lamarr, Anthony Loder and

Denise Loder-Deluca for their inputin this article. I got to know them boththrough our mutual appreciation ofentertainment art. I correspond withthem almost weekly and Anthony is in

progress of writing a definitive biographyof his Mother. He resides in Los Angelesand his sister Denise is an artist and livesin Seattle, Washington.

In the summer of 1968 I was fifteen

years old and my family and I were onvacation in New York City. During thesummer months we always alternated

between two spots: the beaches ofSouth Carolina and the lure andgrandeur of the Big Apple.

My father and I were down onBroadway hailing a cab to make ourway to the Guggenheim Museumwhen out of the corner of my eye I saw

her walking in front of the ImperialTheater. There was a flower vendoron the corner and I rushed over and

purchased one rose. I took it to thewoman I had spotted and handed itto her. Not a word was spoken and asthe cab stopped and I opened the door

I looked back and she was smiling atme. The woman I saw that day on thestreets of New York City was the greatscreen legend, Hedy Lamarr.

Hedy Lamarr was at one time knownas the most beautiful woman in theworld. She was a great star of the silverscreen and during the 30s, 40s andthe early part of the 50s she starred insome of the great films of the periodincluding Algiers, her introduction toAmerican audiences which co-starredCharles Boyer and made famous theline, Com wiz me to the Kasbah. The

Ziegfeld Girl, Boom Town, ComradeX and White Cargo soon followedand Hedy became a very bankable

commodity for the studios. In 1950,Cecil B. De Mille directed her in thetitle role in Samson and Delilah. Butduring the late fifties her career beganto wane with commercial flops suchas The Story of Mankind. Hedysdays in Hollywood were over with the1957 release of The Female Animalco-starring George Nader and JanePowell.

Hollywood had used her up andthrew her to the wolves commentedher son, Anthony Loder. Hedy was nolonger the big star she had been andfrom then on her life would take onunfortunate turns and twists.

Her personal life was in shambleswith 6 failed marriages and threechildren to support. Hedy had had twochildren by her second husband, theEnglish actor, John Loder. Her first

child was adopted during her marriageto screenwriter Gene Markey. Herson told this writer that Hedy wasnot a good mother and only adoptedJimmy because she thought she wasinfertile. In the late fifties, Hedymarried millionaire Howard Lee butthat marriage only lasted until 1960.

Howard Lee later married actress GeneTierney.

In the early 60s, Hedy appeared onnumerous television shows includingWhats My Line and To Tell The Truth.She was also a guest on one of BobHopes television specials. She andHope had starred in a movie together in1951, My Favorite Spy. In 1965, Hedy

published her autobiography, Ecstasyand Me which caused quite a stir in theHollywood community. It told of her

upbringing in Austria and was titledafter a German production in whichshe hadstarred. The movie, Ecstasywas a trailblazer especially duringthe silent era because Hedy appearedtotally nude. Embarrassed by thetawdriness of the book, Hedy admittedshe had employed a ghostwriter andhe had taken inaccurate liberties withthe material. She later sued the authorand publisher and was awarded an

undisclosed settlement out of court. Inthe early 70s she also sued filmmakerMel Brooks for his unauthorized use ofher name in thefilm, Blazing Saddles. Again this wassettled for an undisclosed amount.

In 1965 something very disturbinghappened that confounded all whoknew Hedy Lamarr. She was arrestedand charged with shoplifting in NewYork. She had stolen inconsequentialitems such as a lipstick and compactfrom Walgreens Drug Store. When

I asked her son Anthony about thishe responded by saying that Hedythought she was owed because of all

the entertainment she had given theworld. The adverse publicity thaterupted caused the producers of a low

budget horror movie, Picture MommyDead to release Hedy from hercontract. This was to be her comebackof sorts.

Hedy Lamarr wentinto virtual seclusion and moved toa community outside of Orlando.

Not much was heard from her until

another shoplifting arrest in 1997.According to her son, Mother becamea prisoner of her own persona scarred

physically from too many botched

plastic surgeries and scarred mentallyby years of alcohol and drug abuse.The first half of her life was a glitteringfairytale, the second a tragic waste.

Hedy Lamarr died at the age of 86 in

2000.

Remembering Hedy Lamarrexams earlier this month, armed withwords of encouragement recentlygained.

Jeanette enjoys singing as an alto iner church choir. Throughout her

ife, she enjoys playing the piano.Spirituals and instrumental jazz aregood listening to her ears. Domestictravel is a favorite pastime; she hopesto do a lot more. She is active atZion Hill Missionary Baptist Churchn the Talatha community, now led by

Rev. Chauncey Scott.

A quote of Henry Fords has meansa lot to Jeanette. He said, Obstaclesare frightful things you see whenyou take your eyes off your goal. Afavorite author is Langston Hughes,with poems entitled Dreams andMother to Son ranking high on herist. Trust in the Lord with your

whole heart, from Proverbs, hasprovided guidance and a compass. Afavorite Biblical passage is found in2 Timothy: 1-7. A common theme

for all these favorites have to do withovercoming fear.

Throughout her career, JeanetteAshley has never labeled or put astudent into a category. She will

ever belittle them. Just as herown life has demonstrated, sheassures them that success is possible.Classroom boards contain thesewords: Doing what is right is not

always easy, but it is the right thing todo. For her younger students, sheeminds them of their work, by asking

this question, Did you know schoolwas your job? All are reminded theycome to learn, no one is expected toknow everything, and mistakes WILL

appen. With her adult learners, sheencourages them to realize they cansucceed, even if their priorities are is a

slightly mixed up order!

eanette...from page 4


6/16


Camellia DazeBy Rio Grande Dave

If Academy Awards were given

to Camellias, the hands down all-

time favorite would be the Camel-

lia Japonica Ville de Nantes. The

proper French pronunciation is veel

duh nahns. Saying it the proper way

makes you sound very sophisticated.

Usually you will hear-veel deenants which is OK, too. This bloom

has been around since 1897, coming

to the US around 1910. The Guichard

Soeurs Nursery in Nantes , France,

which has been in existence since

1864 and at one time had 200,000

camellia plants, propagated Ville de

Nantes. The rest is history. Ville de

Nantes is a sport of another old vari-

ety called Donckelarii. A sport is

a variation of the original plant that

just happens spontaneously. So what

qualities have endeared this camellia

to growers and judges over the years

who believe this is the ultimate ca-

mellia?

Ville de Nantes has several spec-

tacular qualities, number one is the

color. It is a bright current or turkey-

red color with boldly streaked and

blotched white patches. The petals

have varying degrees of fimbria-

tion (saw-tooth edged) which looks

like you took pinking shears and cut

around each petal. Although Ville de

Nantes is classified as a loose semi-

double bloom, some of the petals

twist and turn and stand upright form-ing rabbit ears around a big yellow

ring of stamens. The leaves are a

glossy leathery green. It blooms mid

to late in the season and is very frost

tolerant. Everything comes together to

make a beautiful bloom. It consistent-

ly wins top awards in Camellia Shows

around out the country. It received

the National Camellia Hall of Fame

award in 1978 from the American

Camellia Society which puts it in a

league with very few all time winners.

So now that I have you saying I

want it! Where can I get one? Sorry,

the big box stores dont carry it. You

have to try your kind neighbor or one

of the nurseries on the internet. Good

hunting. Heres hoping to see you

along the Camellia Trail.


7/16


AARP Meeting NotesConstable Robert Johnson was the guest

speaker for the April local Aiken AARPChapter. Constable Johnson related tothe attendees the different responsibilitiesand duties that he performs for the com-munity each day. Constable Johnson wasasked the question Who Pays the Con-

stables Salary? The answer was giventhat this is a volunteer job. Constablesare used across the state working withmany quality of life situations. ConstableJohnson is a member of the national con-stables association.

PrimeTimers welcome at Sunny MondaySeniors over the age of 55 are always welcome at Sunny Monday at St. Johns UMC, downtown.Call 648-6891 for more information. Be sure to make a reservation for a delicious lunch, at $4.All events begin at 10:30 am, at the corners of Richland and Newberry. Mark your calendars andget in on the fun.

Monday, June 18AMANDA STEFANAKOS, From the GEORIA HEALTH SCIENCES MEDICAL CENTER,will be reporting to us about what is happening to GHSMC and AUGUSTA STATE UNIVER-SITY. Amanda will also be giving tips on senior living (safety) and reporting on new medical

information regarding Parkinsons disease.

NO SUNNY MONDAY EVENTS IN JULY AND AUGUST

Monday, Sepember 17STATE REPRESENTATIVE TOM YOUNG, soon to be SENATOR TOM YOUNG, who is

running unopposed, will be telling us about our state government and what we can expect in thenext session. Tom is a member of the St. Johns church family and we look foward to his enlight-ening us on state issues.

Monday, October 15Today we will have the honor of hearing, our CHIEF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER OFAIKEN COUNTY, SHERIFF MICHAEL HUNT. We thank Sheriff Hunt for taking time out ofhis busy schedule to speak to us about what is being done to keep our county safe.

Monday, November 19Today MAYOR CAVANAUGH will be our honored guest speaker. Mayor Cavanaugh will be

telling us about this great and wonderful city of Aiken.


8/16


Boomers and Business Start-UpsAn ever growing number of baby

boomers are starting their ownbusinesses. Some are motivated

by the dream of being their own

boss, while others want to take

an idea about a product or service

and make it a reality. For many

boomers, becoming an entrepre-

neur is a key element of their re-

tirement -- either out of financial

necessity or the desire to remain

active in the business world.

Regardless of the reason, starting

a successful enterprise requires

careful planning.

Choosing a business

Starting a business that you know

and love is always going to have

a better chance of success. The

years of experience youve ac-cumulated in a field are an in-

valuable asset and if you believe

in your product, those skills and

energy can be focused on market-

ing.

Consulting a tax lawyer will help

you determine which legal entity

best fits your business and the tax

advantages and disadvantages

of operating as a sole proprietor,

partnership, LLC, or Subchapter

S-Corporation.

Having what it takes

Since any start-up is going to

consume financial resources, its

important to be aware of actual

costs and the time it will take to

see a return. Savings accounts,the equity in a home and invest-

ment portfolios can be sources

of revenue, but determine how

much you can afford to tie up or

possibly lose if the business fails.

A partnership or outside investors

are also possible sources of rev-

enue, as are small business loans.

Whatever the means of financing,

create a solid plan so youll know

what to expect until you start

generating an income.

Defining and setting benchmarks

Its important to plan and track

the progress of your business by

setting benchmarks. This allows

you to focus on any necessary ad-

justments to keep your enterprisemoving forward at a measured

pace. Even the best business plan

cant take into account all the

possible snags or delays, so have

contingencies in place to help you

deal with them.

Find the support you need

You may know your product, but

not necessarily the ins-and-outs

of operating a successful busi-

ness. Getting help with what you

dont know, such as setting up

an efficient office or getting your

Web site up and running, allows

you to focus on the things you

know and do best.

9


9/16


Doing What Comes NaturallyBy Chrissa Matthews

You have your coffee, your glassesand the paper. Youve just begun

reading this article when in bursts

a relative who announces It is

time for you to move. Move? Yes.

Relocate. Sell your house. Move

to a home where there are lots of

people your age.

What on Earth? Well we are

afraid you will fall, break a hip or

something.

Know what day this is? This is the

day a relative decided you are old.

It is this simple: Senior living is

outine, outpatient living. Each of us

would do well to learn this because

knowing this makes the rest easy.

Old and new are relative terms.

When does a new car stop being

new? Hard to answer. So when

does a person become old? The

older I become, the younger

everyone else seems to be. What is

the new old?

Psychologists have found that, for

adults, old tends to be thirteen to

eighteen years more than the age of

the person defining it. The closer

one gets to an age, the less that age

seems to be old.

For most people, it isnt about

ageit is about ability. And no one

is pretending abilities dont decline

over time. But who moves when

they dont have to?

Less than one in five seniors will

ever live in any sort of facility.

According to AARP, less than one

in five ever wants to live anywhere

besides home.

Living at home is normal, nearly

as normal for an eighty year old as

it is a forty year old. In home care

allows for the opportunity to stayhome longer or to never leave at all.

Certainly there are challenges that

come with age. And just as certainly

we know how to meet them.

Completely customizable, uniquely

flexible, in-home caregiving from

DayBreak fits the solution to the

need.

Home is the state-of-the-art senior

living option and probably the best

one for you. Youve been doing it all

your lifenaturally.

Chrissa Matthews, MA, CCC/SLP, is

a native CSRA resident and the owner

of DayBreak Adult Care Services, Inc,

Aiken, SC.

Chrissa Matthews, MA, CCC/SLP, a long-time

Aiken resdent and the owner of DayBreak

Adult Care Services, Inc., Aiken, SC

10


10/16


By Cynthia F. Catts

Artificial sweeteners

Although the FDA has approved themfor use in food products, I recommendthat we avoid artificial sweeteners,especially aspartame. There is simplynot enough research regarding their longterm safety. Furthermore, aspartate,(think aspartame) just like glutamate

(think MSG) cross the blood barrierinto the brain and may possibly besubtle stimulants of emotional andbehavioral abnormalities. Ever wonderwhy your headaches come on after theconsumption of diet soda?

In my experience the heaviest users ofdiet sodas are my heaviest clients andthose who have a hard time resistingsweets. Research has indicated that

there is a link between the use ofdiet sodas and obesity and metabolicsyndrome.

Is Splenda really no different fromsugar? Check out the making ofSplenda and you be the judge (sugartreated with trityl chloride, aceticanhydride, hydrogen chloride,thionyl chloride and methanol in thepresence of dimethyl formamide,

4-methyl morpholine, toluene,methyl isobutyl ketone, acetic acid,benzyltriethyammonium chloride andsodium methoxide). Yum Yum.

High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)

This sweetener is used a lot in our foodsupply because it is cheap. HFCS hasbeen linked to inflammation, elevatedtriglycerides, insulin resistance and

metabolic syndrome, all major riskfactors for heart attack, stroke anddiabetes.

Sodium Benzoate

This is a preservative commonly usedin sodas to prevent mold from forming.Ok so we dont want mold in our sodabut some researches say it damagesDNA and may lead to cirrhosis of the

liver and degenerative diseases such asParkinsons. Additionally, accordingto the National Cancer Institute, whensodium benzoate is combined withascorbic acid (vitamin C), it can form

benzene, a well-known carcinogen thatis also found in gasoline.

Phosphoric acid

Part of the reason we like soda isbecause of the tanginess from theaddition of this additive. My dentisttells me that phosphoric acid is alsoused in industry and dentistry toremove rust and roughen tooth enamel.I remember in one of my food sciencelabs at FSU over the course of a fewweeks we watched a tooth dissolve in acontainer of cola.

It is well known that phosphoric acidalters pH levels, making the bloodmore acidic and, consequently leachingcalcium and other minerals fromthe bones. Overtime of course thisleads to bone loss and osteoporosis.Additionally, phosphoric acid has beenlinked with chronic kidney disease andkidney stones. Caffeine, a significantcomponent of colas, may also play arole in the connection between soda andlow bone density.

Bottom line-we should drink morewater and less of the sweet stuff. There

are now some cleaner solutions such asZevia (soda sweetened with stevia) andHansens powder or Crystal Light Pure

powder both of which contain stevia.There is always a sparkling water withthe essence of fruit of berries in it withno sweetening at all. I still maintainhowever, that our main beverage should

be water. That , after all is what we aremade out of.For more information about makinghealthy food choices, or to set up an

appointment for a private consult, Cyndi

may be reached at 803-642-9360 or

[email protected].

Four reasons (besides EMPTY CALORIES!) that I

recommend avoiding the consumption of all soda

Cynthia F. Catts, RD, LD -

Medical Nutrition Therapist in

Private Practice

11Thursday May 31 2012


11/16


Mature timesis online at

aikenstandard.com

Thursday May 31 201212


12/16


CDs and Fixed Deferred Annuities. Which is Right for You?You cant turn on the news todaywithout hearing fresh remindersof the turmoil in the markets andthe broader economy. In this un-

certain climate, many people areanxious to try to find a safe placefor their savings.

Two popular options are certifi-cates of deposit (CDs) and fixeddeferred annuities. Both areconsidered low-risk vehicles forbuilding wealth; yet they differin important ways. Which choiceis better? The answer dependson your goals and priorities. Thefollowing information will helpyou determine which of these two

roducts is best suited for yourneeds at this time.

Safety of Principal: Both CDs

and fixed deferred annuitiesare considered low-risk invest-ments. CDs are generally issuedby banks, and, in most cases, are

insured by the Federal DepositInsurance Corporation (FDIC)for up to $250,000* per deposi-tor. Should the bank fail, theFDIC guarantees CDs up to thisamount.

Fixed deferred annuities areissued by insurance companiesand are not insured by the U.S.government. They are backed bythe financial strength of the issu-ing insurance company, regard-less of the amount. Therefore,before purchasing an annuity,you should make sure the issuinginsurance company is financiallysound. You can determine finan-

cial strength by requesting thefindings of independent ratingcompanies such a Moodys A.M.Best, Standard & Poors and

Fitch. These companies evaluatethe financial strength of insur-ance companies and publish rat-ings that give their assessments ofeach company.

Short Term vs. Long: If youresaving toward a specific near-termobjective - say, a down paymenton a car or home - a CD may bethe way to go. CDs offer a guaran-teed** interest rate over a matu-rity period that could range froma month to a few years.

Fixed deferred annuities, by con-trast, are generally designed foraccumulating or protecting retire-

ment savings. They can even beused to provide a legacy for yourheirs.

Distribution Options at Ma-

turity: When a CD reaches itsmaturity, you can take the CDslump sum value in cash, renewthe CD for the same or differentmaturity period or examine otherinvestment alternatives (such as adeferred fixed annuity).

In a fixed deferred annuity, youmay elect to withdraw your mon-ey in a lump sum*** or you maywant to select a lifetime incomeoption, which provides you witha flow of income that you cannotoutlive**. You could also elect tolet your funds continue to accu-mulate until a need arises.



13/16


Potlucks Back --

Lets Eat!By: Carla JordanCall it a sign of the times or justplain good luck for those of us

yearning to swap fast food fare for

some tasty home cooking. Potluck

gatherings are back and one of this

years hottest trends in entertaining.

Although these communal luck

of the pot meals (where everyonebrings their favorite dish) hearken

back to the late 19th century, they

found their footing in the mid-

1950s when it seemed like every

mom in the neighborhood was

filling casserole dishes for church

socials and family get-togethers.

There are three primary reasons

driving the return of potluck -- ourschedules, the economy and child-

hood memories, says Chef Jeff

Gillis, www.CelebratingHome.com.

We live such fast-paced lives that

divvying up the cooking makes

home entertaining more realis-

tic than putting all of the burden

on the hostess. Making one dish

instead of several also helps stretch

the budget -- something were alllooking to do these days. And,

lets face it -- after years of dashing

through the drive-thru, wouldnt

you like to sit down to some home-

cooked food, even if its only once a

week?

Got potluck fever but not a clue

what to do? Here are four tips thatll

make your next gathering both

tasty and stylish, plus, a family-fave

recipe thatll put your home on the

map as potluck heaven.

Organize Participants

Divide the meal by categories so

guests will have a balance of ap-

petizers, entrees, sides and desserts

from which to choose.

Agree on Advance Prep

All dishes should be cooked prior to

arrival so only a quick re-heating is

required.

Choose Easy-Fix, Crowd-Pleasing

Recipes

To appeal to guests varying tastes,

save the exotic for later and dust off

moms (or grandmas) cookbook.

Dress Up the Table

Remember the special tablecloth

mom used for Sunday dinner? Cre-

ate some memories for your own

family with a pretty fabric table-

cloth, cloth napkins (pretty and

eco-friendly!) and some candles.

Bean Pot Beef StewThis twist on an American favorite

yields a hearty, flavorful entree that

takes less prep time because it slow

cooks in the oven in a bean pot.

Ingredients:

1 pound round steak, cut into

bite-sized pieces

1 large yellow onion, roughlychopped

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, chopped fine

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced

tomatoes

6 cups beef broth (or stock)

11/2 teaspoons dried thyme

3 bay leaves

2 cups potatoes, cubed1 cup celery, diced

1 cup carrots, diced

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Rub steak with olive oil and coat

with salt and pepper.

Let steak sit at room temperature in

bean pot while preparing all other

vegetables. Chop and dice every-

thing, then add to bean pot. Add

beef broth (or stock), thyme, bay

leaves, diced tomatoes and salt andpepper. Cover and bake in 375 F

oven for 3 to 4 hours until meat is

tender.

*Recipe courtesy of www.Celebrat-

ingHome.com

A slow cooker (l ike Celebrating Homes Venetian Home Spice Bean Pot shown here) is

potluck perfect. Its sized to feed a crowd and to go from kitchen to table without miss-

ing a stylish beat.


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15/16

Dating After the Death or Divorce of a SpouseThe loss of a spouse through an un-

expected death or a planned divorce

is seldom easy. It can be difficult to

cope with the new life the loss of a

spouse brings, including living life

without a partner -- especially if a

person has had a long marriage and

grown accustomed to being part of a

team. Many people dont know the

proper etiquette of dating after a di-

vorce or when a spouse is deceased.

Once the pain of loss subsides and

a person is left alone, he may once

again look for the companionship ofanother person. At the same time,

he may wonder what others may say

about getting back into the dating

pool. Is it too soon? Will it be good

for the kids? Do you really want to

try that again? Have you forgotten

about (name spouse)already?

The rules have changed over the

years. Did you know that it was

expected for a widow to marry

her deceased husbands brother at

one time in history? Many people

entered a pre-determined period of

mourning after a loss. Even after a

divorce, individuals often thought

that it was alright to date again only

after a set amount of time after the

marriage was dissolved. On average

in the United States, people wait

three years after a divorce before

remarrying. The time varies after

the death of a spouse.

Whats more, people who have

been married before often come

with emotional feelings, children

and relationships with the family

members of the previous spouse.

Since these familial ties arent easily

severed, newly single people often

take their feelings into consider-

ation before dating as well.

While there are no hard-set rules

regarding returning to the world

of dating, individuals should takea hard look at their situation. They

must be sure that theyre emotion-

ally ready for a new relationship and

not simply looking to fill the void

left by the previous spouse.

Its also important to note that love

this time around may not feel the

same as it did with the lost spouse.

As an older and more experienced

person, love may not be the thun-

derbolt, exciting, heart-racing

experience that it was the first time

around. Now it may be a slow sim-

mer that takes time to develop.

For those who have decided to start

dating, here are a few tips.

* Talk about a former spouse when

appropriate. Dont spend every wak-

ing minute talking about what she

did, or how she was better/worse at

this. A new partner should know

about the former, but not constantly

be compared to her.

* Mention sad times. If a certaindate triggers sad memories, such as

an anniversary or a birthday, be sure

to mention why you could be feeling

blue.

* Be open with feelings. The death

of a spouse or a divorce is a big part

of you. Share your feelings whenev-

er possible so that your new love has

insight into what youre thinking.



16/16

Documents

Mature Times - May 2012