I ❤️ February
Hey BOOMers! I love February and thought I’d use Myspace in this magazine to share a few no-fib Feb thoughts on our shortest month. My affection for February (pronounced Feb-you-ary until age 10) is largely due to the harsh winters of Chicago where I lived...
10 Galentine’s Day Party’s Your Gals Will Love
Are you thinking about a night in for your girlfriends this month?Hosting an at home Galentine’s Day Party is a fun way to catch up with your friends while staying in on colder nights. Valentine’s Day may be for lovers, but Galentine’s Day is for...
Managing Medications for Aging Adults
It is not uncommon for aging adults to accumulate too many prescription medications that are to be taken daily for various medical conditions. When all the prescribed medications are not needed, it is termed “ Polypharmacy.” Polypharmacy is a growing concern in older adults. This...
Elvis, Beatles, Motown; Who Really Ruled the Airwaves?
Let’s take a trip back to the golden age of music. The big question on everyone’s mind back then wasn’t what was for dinner or who was going to win the next game—it was this: Are you an Elvis person or a Beatles person? This...
It’s Been a Good Ride
Boom! Magazine Founder Jim Watson was one of the nicest men I’ve had the privilege of calling a friend. He was also, at times, a mentor. In his honor and memory, hereinbelow is the first feature that I submitted (and he graciously accepted) back in...
Steps to Writing Your Memoir
Everyone who has ever lived has a story to tell. As you approach mid to later life, you may find yourself reflecting on your past. Perhaps you realize you’ve lived through significant or relatable events, experiences, choices, and changes that would be fascinating or helpful...
“Remote Control Roulette
Ah, the remote control—a device meant to make life easier but somehow capable of unraveling even the most patient among us. Let me set the scene: You’re ready to relax. The snacks are prepared, your drink is at the perfect level of condensation, and you’ve...
Maximizing Your Social Security Benefits
There are big changes to Social Security in 2025. Congress passed a law called the Social Security Fairness Act which could increase Social Security benefits for many Americans, which President Biden signed into law. If some of your career was spent working in non-Social Security...
Cover Profile: Ben Bradshaw
In this engaging and heartfelt interview, Ben Bradshaw, a tennis coach, community leader, and devoted father, shares his journey from growing up in a tennis-centered household to coaching in the River Region. Bradshaw reflects on his earliest memories of playing with his father, the valuable...
This & That: Jan-Feb Events
Enjoy these upcoming events. Sir Elton John (Tom’s Elton Tribute)January 19 at Troy University’s Davis Theatre The world’s number one Elton John tribute band are coming to play All The Hits by Elton John. The spectacular show includes Bennie and the Jets, Tiny Dancer, Rocket...
Grumpy But Grateful: “The Great Packaging Battle”
“The art of complaining —gratefully.” You know what’s tougher than opening a plastic clamshell package? Negotiating peace treaties. Performing brain surgery. Figuring out why your kid’s Wi-Fi works and yours doesn’t. These packages weren’t designed to protect the product—they were designed to test your will...
Real Hope, Real Change!
Celebrate like it’s 2025! Because it is. Just as the scars (or should that be “scares”?) of Y2K are fading, the new century is at the quarter-pole. Hard to believe. I’m excited about the new year. For 12 of the last 16 years, my country...
Up Your Dinner Game: Host A Tasting Party
Coming up with an idea for dinner every night can be frustrating. We try to find a meal that everyone enjoys, that can be put together quickly and that reheats well. The key to adding a new recipe to your rotation is to sample it....
Magnolia Springs Getaway
I’m often asked, “How do you come up with travel ideas?” There’s no formula. But sometimes, the best adventure is the brainchild of impulse. For example, I turn to Cindy—who’s ogling her iPhone. “Hey, let’s drive to the gulf for some fresh oysters. What say...
If Something Happens to You, Are Your Records Organized?
Are your records organized? If something were to happen to you, would it be easy for loved ones to take over your affairs or settle your estate? Would they know where to find all your necessary healthcare information, legal documents, passwords, and PINs? Would they...