June 2013 Prime

Prime Celebrating Midlife and Beyond

June 2013

FREE

Eating Lake Martin

Well-known & obscure places to dine.

• Grandpa’s Garden • Top 10 Alabama Destinations • Sr. Travel Tips • Pear Dogs • • Financial Decisions • Selecting a Nursing Home • European River Cruise •

Will O. (Trip) Walton, III

Walton Law Firm, PC

2011-2012 Alabama Super Lawyer

Ph: 334-321-3000 www.waltonlaw.net

The

Fighter “Walton Law Firm Top Five”

$17,500,000.00 Insurance Fraud Verdict $8,000,000.00 Brain Injury Settlement $7,500,000.00 Spine Injury Settlement $6,750,000.00 Brain Injury Settlement $4,000,000.00 Wrongful Death Settlement As an Alabama Golden Gloves Heavy Weight Boxing Champion, Trip’s motto has always been “We Don’t Start The Fight – We Finish It!”

Traumatic Brain Injury • Wrongful Death • Serious Personal Injury

“The recoveries, verdicts, favorable outcomes, and testimonials described in this ad are not an indication of future results. Every case is different, and regardless of what friends, family, or other individuals may say about what a case is worth, each case must be evaluated on its own facts and circumstances as they apply to the law. The evaluation of a case depends on the facts, the injuries, the jurisdiction, the venue, the witnesses, the parties, and the testimony, among other factors. Furthermore, no representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

Blue Jeans or

T Black

e i

Wine Tasting 1st Wednesday 5:30-7:00 pm

Great Food For Any Occasion Mon – Thurs 4:30-9:30 pm Fri & Sat 4:30-10:00 pm 10044 Chantilly Parkway 334-281-3911 www.charlesanthonysatthepub.com

www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

3

Prime/June 2013 contents Editor’s Notes

5

Short Takes

6

A Gracious Plenty

8

Yard ‘n Garden

9

FEATURE - Top 10

10

All About Wine

12

Along These Lines

13

Off The Beaten Path

15

Medicare Q&A

16

Medicare

17

FEATURE - Lake Martin Dining

18

In Every Life

22

Social Security

23

Financial Fraud

24

Crafty Corner

25

FEATURE - Smooth Sailing

26

Puzzles

28

Moving Free

29

Money Wi$e

31

Prime Diversions

32

Kitchen Basics

Teach Your Children Alabama attractions Sample the 7%

The Voice of “Mr. Ed”

Dogs in Pears

Prostate screenings From rockets to wave pools to botanical gardens, discover Alabama attractions this summer. (page 10)

Find a Nursing Home A buffet of options Healthy Traveling The credit you deserve Who to call for help

on the cover

Prime Celebrating Midlife and Beyond

June 2013

FREE

Eating Lake Martin

Well-known & obscure places to dine.

• Grandpa’s Garden • Top 10 Alabama Destinations • Sr. Travel Tips • Pear Dogs • • Financial Decisions • Selecting a Nursing Home • European River Cruise •

4

Ninety years ago this year construction began on Martin Dam. The resulting lake has become a recreational magnet for Central Alabama, particularly during the summer. Along its shores, at hidden crossroads, and in nearby small towns, there are dining options to satisfy every appetite. Take the Lake Martin Great Circle Dining Tour.(page 18)

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

The big Frame-up

European River Cruise

Exercise: Take it slow

Facts first

DVD reviews

Prime

Montgomery

June 2013 Vol. 4, Issue 3

PUBLISHER Bob Corley, primemontgomery@gmail.com EDITOR Sandra Polizos, primeeditor@gmail.com ART DIRECTOR Callie Corley, primemagdesign@gmail.com WRITERS Andrea Gross, Jake Roberts CONTRIBUTORS Jerry Belcher, Joe Borg, Tina Calligas, Callie Corley, Niko Corley, Mark Glass, Kylle’ McKinney, Bob Moos, Arlene Morris, Nick Thomas, Alan Wallace, David White PHOTOGRAPHER Bob Corley, Callie Corley SALES Bob Corley • 334-202-0114, primemontgomery@gmail.com Wendy McFarland, • 334-652-9080 mcfarlandadvantage@gmail.com Prime Montgomery 7956 Vaughn Road, #144 Montgomery, AL 36116 • 334-202-0114 www.primemontgomery.com ISSN 2152-9035

Prime Montgomery is a publication of The Polizos/Corley Group, LLC. Original content is copyright 2013 by The Polizos/Corley Group, LLC., all rights reserved, with replication of any portion prohibited without written permission. Opinions expressed are those of contributing writer(s) and not necessarily those of The Polizos/ Corley Group, LLC. Prime Montgomery is published monthly except for the combined issue of December/January. Information in articles, departments, columns, and other content areas, as well as advertisements, does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Prime Montgomery magazine. Items relating to health, finances, and legal issues are not offered as substitutes for the advice and consultation of health, financial, and legal professionals.

Consult properly degreed and licensed professionals when dealing with financial, medical, emotional, or legal matters. We accept no liability for errors or omissions, and are not responsible for advertiser claims.

Editor’s Note It’s hard to grow up in the South and not look forward to the rich bounty of summer produce so plentiful in this region. Forget the meat, it’s the vegetables we love. Whether they’re from a Farmers Market or a backyard garden or even a local “meat and three,” thinking of that first bite of a sun-ripened Alabama tomato, a sweet ear of Silver Queen corn, or a tender, freshly-cut serving of Yard Long green beans is, well, exciting.

Alabamians’ attachments to unprocessed produce goes way beyond the taste; we like to claim it as a birthright.

Rich or poor, raised in the country or in a city or town, lots of us grew up on a regular diet of fresh vegetables and hot buttered cornbread or yeast rolls, served around a dinner table full of nurturing, if not always appreciated, relatives. And, almost always, someone associated with the meal was a gardener.

In our family it was my Dad. As a little girl, I remember a small vegetable patch that was simple to tend. By my late teens the once easily-managed garden had grown to a six-foot wide area that outlined the entire perimeter of our back yard. From early spring to early fall, Dad tended it with backbreaking diligence.

I could never understand why, after spending 10-12 hours at work, he’d come home and spend more hours (in what certainly seemed like more work) in his garden.

Sometimes he solicited our not-so-happily offered assistance in watering and harvesting the yards of squash, eggplant, zucchini, cucumbers, tomatoes, corn, green beans, green peppers, green onions, and just plain “greens.” And though I complained about watering the endless rows of plants, I quietly enjoyed measuring their growth and loved Dad’s enthusiasm at the size, taste, and beauty of his vegetables. Once, the newspaper came to our house and took his picture for growing a cucumber the size of a baseball bat. Thrilled at the city-wide recognition, he saved the article for years.

This spring, I planted five Better Boy tomatoes and envisioned the fresh, delicious dishes I’d serve to family and friends around my dinner table. Stuffed tomatoes. Tomato and cucumber salad. Fried green tomatoes. Tomato pie.

Digging the holes as I planted, I thought of Dad, his love of fresh tomatoes, and his green thumb. I also remembered the hours he spent helping me, as an adult, plant flowers, herbs and vegetables in gardens of my own. I will never be the gardener he was, but his efforts are yielding a lifetime harvest of happy memories.

Happy Father’s Day to all area dads, and Happy June.

Sandra Polizos Editor

If you’re 50+ and on Facebook, become a fan of PRIME Montgomery! www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

5

shorttakes

“2 million...the number of brain cells lost for each minute delay in restoring blood flow after a stroke.”

After a Stroke, Every Minute Counts From the moment a person starts to experience stroke symptoms, the clock starts ticking. Every minute that passes can make a difference in how well their brain, arms, legs, speech or thinking ability recover.

Now, new national guidelines for stroke treatment make it clear just how much minutes count. The American Stroke Association guidelines are published in the American Heart Association journal Stroke.

Here are some key numbers: n 90% – the proportion of stroke victims whose symptoms are caused by clots blocking blood vessels in the brain, making them potential candidates for clot-busting therapy if they get to the hospital in time. n 9-1-1 – the number that people should call immediately after they or someone near them begins to experience symptoms of stroke. n 4.5 hours – the maximum number of hours that can pass between the start of stroke symptoms and the start of clot-dissolving treatment (called tPA). n 2 million – The approximate number of brain cells (neurons) lost for each minute delay in restoring blood flow after a stroke. Earlier treatment is better. n 60 – the number of minutes between the moment a typical stroke victim reaches a hospital, and the moment they get treatment to break up a blood clot in their brain. This “door to needle time” includes the time it takes to use brain scanners to tell whether a clot or bleeding is causing the stroke. n 4 – the number of letters in the word “FAST,” which is an easy way to remember the sudden signs of a stroke: m Face drooping: Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? m Arm weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? m Speech difficulty: Is speech slurred, are you unable to speak, or are you hard to understand?

Time to call 9-1-1: If you have any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get to the hospital immediately.

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

New Technique Shows Promise in Restoring Near Vision without Glasses By middle age, most people have age-related declines in near vision (presbyopia) requiring bifocals or reading glasses.

An emerging technique called hyperopic orthokeratology (OK) may provide a new alternative for restoring near vision without the need for glasses, according to a study performed at the University of New South Wales, Sydney and appearing in Optometry and Vision Science.

For middle-aged patients with presbyopia, researchers have shown the feasibility of correcting one eye for near vision through OK, in which overnight contact lens wear shapes the cornea of one eye to allow infocus near vision for reading. To preserve normal distance vision, the other eye is left untreated.

Presbyopia is caused by agerelated loss of flexibility in the cornea.

Orthokeratology is a clinical technique to correct vision using specially designed rigid contact lenses to manipulate the shape of the cornea. Researchers liken OK therapy to orthodontic treatment using braces to change the alignment of the teeth.

The improvement was apparent on the first day after overnight OK lens wear, and increased further during the initial treatment week. To retain the correction in near vision, patients had to continue wearing their OK lenses every night.

shorttakes

Green Tea Found to Reduce Some GI Cancers Women who drink green tea may lower their risk of developing some digestive system cancers, especially cancers of the stomach/ esophagus and colorectum, according to a study led by researchers from Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center and published online in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Researchers found that regular tea consumption, defined as tea consumption at least three times a week for more than six months, was associated with a 17% reduced risk of all digestive cancers combined.

Those who consumed about two to three cups per day had a 21% reduced risk of digestive system cancers. The risk was reduced by 27% among women who had been drinking tea regularly for at least 20 years. For colorectal cancer, risk was reduced by 29% among the long-term tea drinkers. Tea contains polyphenols or natural chemicals that include catechins. Catechins have antioxidant properties and may inhibit cancer by reducing DNA damage and blocking tumor cell growth and invasion.

“Researchers found that regular tea consumption... was associated with a 17% reduced risk of all digestive cancers combined.”

Sport Makes Middle-Aged People Smarter High-intensity interval training makes middle-aged people not only healthier but smarter, showed a Montreal Heart Institute (MHI) study, in collaboration with the Montreal Geriatric University Institute.

The participants were all overweight and had one or more other cardiovascular risk factors. They followed a four-month program of twice weekly interval training on stationary bicycles and twice weekly resistance training.

High-intensity interval training involves alternating between short periods of low and high intensity aerobic exercise – for example, a series of 30 seconds of sprinting followed by 30 seconds of walking or jogging.

After the program was finished, researchers discovered that waist circumference and trunk fat mass had decreased.

They also found that the participant’s VO2max and insulin sensitivity had increased significantly, in tandem with their score on cognitive tests.

Insulin sensitivity is the ability of sugar to enter body tissue.VO2max is the maximum capacity of an individual’s body to transport and use oxygen during exercise. www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

7

a gracious plenty

BACK to Basics D

id you know a ‘dash’ as called for in a recipe is considered less than 1/8 teaspoon?

Cooking Basics from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service is a great review for kitchen wizards and

Bake/Roast — Cook food uncovered in an oven or similar appliance.

Beat — Make mixture smooth with rapid, regular motion using a wire whisk, spoon, hand beater, or mixer.

When using a spoon, lift the mixture up and over with each stroke.

Blend — Mix two or more ingredients thoroughly.

Boil — Heat a liquid until bubbles break on the surface or cook in boiling water.

Braise — Slowly cook meat or poultry in a small amount of liquid in a covered pot.

Broil — Use direct heat to cook.

Brown — Cook quickly until surface of food is brown.

Chop — Cut food into small pieces.

Coat — Cover entire surface with a mixture such as flour or bread crumbs.

Core — Using a sharp knife, remove the core and seeds of fruit.

Cream ­— Stir one or more foods until they are soft.

Crisp-tender — The “doneness” of vegetables when they crisp in texture.

Crush — Use a garlic press or a blunt object to smash foods such as garlic until the fibers separate.

Cube ­— Cut food into small, 1/2-inch cubes.

Dash ­— Less than 1/8 teaspoon.

Dice ­­— Cut into small, square-shaped pieces.

Drain — Put food and liquid into a strainer or colander, or pour liquid out of a pot by keeping the lid slightly away from the edge of the pan and pouring away from you.

Flute — Pinch the edges of dough such as on pie crust.

Fold — Mix by turning over and over.

Fork-tender — The “doneness” of a food when a fork can easily penetrate the food.

Fry — Pan fry: Cook in frying pan over medium heat with small amount of oil.

Deep fry: Cook in hot oil deep enough for food to float.

Grate — Rub food on a grater or chop in blender or 8

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

a wonderful learning tool for new cooks.

We thank ACES for their generosity in letting Prime offer it to our readers.You can find more information on their website, www.aces.edu/.

food processor to produce fine, medium, or coarse particles.

Grease — Cover or lubricate with oil to keep food from sticking.

Knead — Work dough by folding and stretching with heel of hand.

Marinate — Allow food to soak in liquid to increase flavor and tenderness.

Mince — Cut or chop food into small pieces.

Mix — Combine ingredients using a fork or spoon.

Oil — Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil on a dish or pan. Can substitute vegetable oil spray.

Peel — Remove outer covering of foods by trimming away with a knife or vegetable peeler.

Preheat — Heat oven to desired temperature before putting food in to bake.

Poach — Cook food over low heat in a small amount of hot, simmering liquid.

Saute — Cook in a small amount of oil or water.

Scald — Heat milk until bubbles appear. Bubbles should not be “breaking” on the surface.

Shred — Rub foods against a grater to divide into small pieces.

Sift — Remove lumps or lighten the dry ingredients by putting them through a strainer or a sifter.

Simmer — Cook at a temperature just below the boiling point. Bubbles form slowly but do not reach the surface.

Slice — Cut food into thin pieces.

Steam — Cook over boiling water.

Stew — Cook food over low heat in a large amount of simmering liquid.

Stir-fry — Quickly frying vegetables to a crisp-tender state while constantly stirring.

Stock — Water in which vegetables or meat has been cooked; should be stored in the refrigerator.

Thaw — Slowly change from a frozen state to a liquid state.

Toss — Mix foods lightly with a lifting motion, using forks or spoons.

Yard ‘n garden

My Grandfather’s Garden M

y grandfather passed away 47 years ago, but my loving memories of him are something I will take to my grave. Recently I was in my garden, my mind wandering as it’s prone to do there. I thought about my Grandfather, and a memory, long dormant in my subconscious, rose like a fog lifting from the surface of a pond on a cool, autumn morning. I remembered I used to help him tend his garden.

As a five-year-old in Ohio, I helped him plant seeds that would grow into beautiful pansies, violets and morning glories behind his home on Walnut Street. I would get down on my knees beside him as he tended his irises, and watched in astonishment as he cut down three rose bushes –­­ only to watch them bloom, in all their glory, later that Spring and Summer.

He also had a number of peony and lilac bushes that bloomed into magnificent colored flowers. I watched ants crawl up the peonies and asked why they were always on the bulbs.

Grandpa said they liked the ‘juice’ the flowers gave, and that was a good enough explanation for me. As far as I was concerned, my Grandpa knew everything there was to know about gardening.

Grandpa had not always been the gardener in the family. That job had been my grandmother’s and those were really her flowers. He took over the gardening when she died. By keeping her flowers growing, it was his way to keep some part of her still living and with him. He nurtured that garden for many years without me, his onetime assistant. I was preoccupied with teenage adventures, too busy to help.

When age finally caught up with my Grandfather, he reluctantly accepted the fact that the flowers would henceforth only grow in his memories, and somehow, I think he was content with that. His flowers, my grandmother, and soon he, himself, were all soon together again.

Maybe that was how it was meant to be all along.

In my opinion, there is no better or loving gift we can give to our children or grandchildren than to introduce them to gardening. Some day, long after we are just a loving memory in their hearts, they will be thankful you included them in your gardening.

By Jerry Belcher

Jerry Belcher is a member of the Capital City Master Gardener Association. For more information about the association, visit their website, www.capcitymga. org/, or e-mail capcitymga@gmail.com. www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

9

feature

Top 10(paid)

labama

A S

ttractions

ummer is upon us, and to accompany the Top Ten list of free Alabama attractions published in our April issue (online at www.primemontgomery.com), here’s another Top 10 list of Alabama attractions. These are the most-visited sites with an admission fee, and together with the April list offer an incredible variety of entertaining places to visit this summer.

The list is courtesy of the Alabama Tourism Bureau, based on overall attendance figures, www.alabama.travel/.

McWane Science Center – Birmingham An exciting science center, McWane offers hands-on exhibits and an IMAX theater.

205-714-8300, www.mcwane.org/ Birmingham Zoo The zoos’ Predator Zone features two African Lions, and visitors can watch zookeepers conduct daily training sessions.

205-879-0409, www.birminghamzoo.com/

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail A collection of 468 holes and 11 sites, the RTJ stretches from Muscle Shoals to Mobile and into every corner of the state.

205-942-0444, www.rtjgolf.com/trail/ 10

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

Huntsville Botanical Garden The 112-acre garden offers walking paths, a Seasonal Butterfly House, Festival of Flowers and much more.

256-830-4447, www.hsvbg.org/ Point Mallard Park – Decatur A 750-acre park with hiking and biking trails, camping, golf course and Aquatic Center with wave pool, water slides and kiddie pool, plus a year-round ice skating complex.

256-350-2028, www.pointmallardpark.com/

Montgomery Zoo The zoo’s 40 acres of habitat representing five continents has naturalistic, barrier-free exhibits and more than 600 animals, plus dining at the Overlook Cafe, a gift shop, and a train ride around the park.

334-240-4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com/ Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum – Leeds The museum is home to one of the largest collections of vintage motorcycles and vehicles in the world.

205-699-7275, http://barbermuseum.org/

U.S. Space & Rocket Center – Huntsville The Saturn V rocket, built in Alabama and on display at the Center, helped send man to the moon. It was named one of the “Seven Wonders of America.”

256-837-3400, www.spacecamp.com/museumHome EarlyWorks Museum Complex –Huntsville Enjoy interactive history exhibits, including a talking tree, 46-foot keel boat, talking clock and preschool learning center.

205-324-1911

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park – Mobile In addition to the battleship, see a Blackbird spy plane, B-52 Stratofortress, WWII submarine, plus a wide assortment of other aircraft and weaponry from all military branches.

251-433-2703, www.ussalabama.com/

www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

11

feature

Embrace the Obscure R

By David White

ecently, 17 vintners gathered in Sonoma County, California for a wine tasting dubbed “The 7 Percent Solution.”

Organizers explained that roughly 93 percent of Northern California vineyard acreage is planted to eight major grape varietals. The remaining seven percent is composed of numerous lesser-known varietals. These “7 Percent Solutions” are finding favor with a small but growing number of winemakers.

The event enabled consumers to explore wines produced by California’s revolutionary vintners -- those willing to embrace the state’s vast and varied climate by avoiding popular grapes and bottling the obscure. Whether they’re producing unusual varietals or exploring unheralded regions, these winemakers are worth celebrating.

That certain regions of California might be better suited to, say, Albarino than Chardonnay makes sense. Across the globe, commercial wine is produced from a whopping 1,368 different grape varieties. It defies logic to assume that grapes native to central France will thrive in all the world’s new vineyards. This topic was explored at this year’s Drink Local Wine conference by Joseph Fiola, Ph.D., a University of Maryland professor who has spent more than 25 years researching and teaching about experimental viticulture.

During his lecture, Fiola spent a great deal of time praising the Old World for its commitment to growing varieties that are adapted to local growing conditions.

“Local varieties have been growing in those areas for hundreds, maybe thousands of years,” Fiola explained. “Year in year out, they get ripe.Year in year out, winemakers can control production. Those areas know how to grow the grapes; they know how to make good wine. And it’s the local grapes that are the best.

[Winemakers] aren’t going to grow Cabernet Sauvignon all over Italy because people know the name!”

Fiola went on to compare southern Italy’s climate to southern Maryland’s, and acknowledged the temptation to focus on well-known varieties.

“Trying to convince a Maryland winery that has to worry about marketing to people who can barely pronounce Chardonnay to sell Nero

12

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

d’Avola, Negroamaro, Sagrantino?” he asked, naming three esoteric varieties from Italy. “That presents a challenge,” he conceded.

Europe has an advantage, of course. The continent has been producing wine for thousands of years, so vintners there understand which grapes do best. In France, for example, winemakers in Burgundy know to focus on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Just as German vintners recognize that Riesling thrives in the country’s Mosel region, Spanish vintners recognize that Albarino thrives in Galicia.

Wine production in the United States is still in its infancy, but winemakers know American consumers enjoy Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc, so that’s what most produce. Only the most courageous vintners would eschew these varieties.

One of these courageous vintners is Matthew Rorick of Forlorn Hope, who poured at the “7 Percent Solution” tasting in Sonoma.

Since 2005, he has been producing “rare creatures from appellations unknown and varieties uncommon.”

His “rare creatures” are truly unusual. He produces delightful reds from Sangiovese and Barbera, two Italian grapes that few California winemakers take seriously. He produces a delicious Verdelho, a white wine that’s typically associated with Portugal. He produces the nation’s only 100-percent St. Laurent, a thoughtprovoking, highly aromatic red that’s almost impossible to find outside Austria and the Czech Republic. Each year, he crafts more than a dozen different wines -- and virtually all are produced in lots of fewer than 2,500 bottles.

The fact that 17 vintners like Rorick were able to fill a room at a wine tasting is testament to the fact that an increasing number of winemakers are willing to take risks. And, perhaps more importantly, American consumers are growing more comfortable exploring the unknown.

David White is a member of the Society of Wine Educators and founder and editor of Terroirist.com.

His columns are housed at Palate Press: The Online Wine Magazine. ‘Terroir’ is the influence a particular region has on the flavor of products such as wine, coffee and chocolate.

along these lines hat do David Filby, Wilbur Post, and Scrooge McDuck have in common? They were all characters (“The Time Machine,” “Mister Ed,” and “DuckTales,” respectively) played by actor Alan Young.

A resident of Studio City, California for more than 50 years, Angus, as he was once known, was born in Northern England. His Scottish father soon moved the family to Edinburgh, then later to Canada when Angus was six.Young suffered from prolonged bouts of asthma as a child and was bedridden for months at a time. During those depressing weeks his spirits would be lifted by listening to Canada Radio, and he soon began writing comedy routines.

As a young man his writing and performing talents were recognized, and “The Angus Young Show” hit the Canadian radio waves. After changing his name to Alan he headed to Los Angeles, eventually appearing in some twenty films and dozens of TV shows. Though little remembered today, “The Alan Young Show” was a half-hour variety series on CBS in 1950-53, and his first major success in the U.S. “It won several Emmys including Best Variety Show in 1951,” Young said during an interview, “and I won for Best Actor.”

Without a doubt, however, fans of 1960s TV will remember Alan in “Mister Ed” – named after his talking horse co-star. One of the most popular series of the time, it ran from 1958-1966.

“I still get phone calls from all over the world to talk about the show,” says Young.

Despite it’s popularity and winning a Golden Globe award, “Mr. Ed” never received an Emmy.

“I’m not sure why it never won, but it was certainly an unusual plot! Ed did win the Patsy Award that was given for the best animal actor,” Young said. “In fact, Ed won it so many times that the American Humane Association, who gave out the award, asked me if I would mind if he didn’t win one year. They were concerned people might think the award was ‘fixed’!

So the next year, Lassie won and Ed was second.”

Even though “Mister Ed” is more than 50 years old, Young is still asked how the horse’s lips were made to move. Initially a mystery at the producers’ insistence, Young started the rumor that peanut butter was

placed under the horse’s lip, which he would try to lick off.

“Al Simon and Arthur Lubin, the producers, suggested we keep the method a secret because they thought kids would be disappointed if they found out the technical details of how it was done,” said Young.

“So I made up the peanut butter story, and everyone bought it. It was initially done by putting a piece of nylon thread in his mouth.

But Ed actually learned to move his lips on cue when the trainer touched his hoof. In fact, he soon learned to do it when I stopped talking during a scene! Ed was very smart.”

Despite its popularity, the show was cancelled half-way through the sixth season.

“It was a shock to all of us,” Young recalled.

“The show had good ratings, but CBS got a new program director who wanted to get rid of shows like “Petticoat Junction,” “The Beverly Hillbillies,” and “Mister Ed.” I guess he thought we were becoming the hillbilly network!

Al Simon walked on to the set while we were reading scripts for the next day and said we were dropped then and there. It was awful, people were crying, but that was it. We never shot another episode.”

Since “Mister Ed,” Young has been in demand as a voice actor, working on “The Smurfs,” “Ren and Stimpy,” “The Chipmunks,” and “Scooby-Doo.” He’s probably best known in the cartoon universe for his role as Disney’s Scrooge McDuck.

Young retired from film work and now focuses on writing. His two books, “There’s No Business Like Show Business ....Was,” and “Mister Ed and Me... and More!” recount stories from his long career (visit http://mister-ed.tv. for more details).

“I love to write. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and working with so many lovely people here in Hollywood. I’ve heard so many of them tell fascinating stories, so I wanted to put it all together so fans could read about working in Hollywood in the ‘old days.’”

Nick Thomas teaches at AUM and writes for magazines and newspapers across the country, including the Washington Post, LA Times and Chicago Tribune. He can be reached at his blog: http://getnickt.blogspot.com.

Remembering “Mister Ed”

W

By Nick Thomas

www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

13

MONTGOMERY

The River Region’s Professional Ballet Company Darren McIntyre,Artistic Director

Summer Camp Fairytale Ballet Camp June 10-28

Summer Camp

Ages 7 and Older M-F, 9:30-4:00 Pointe, Pre-Pointe, Men’s Class, Variations, Repertory, Modern, Jazz.

No audition. Limited space.

Single or multiple weeks available.

Fairytale Camp Ages 3 to 8 M-F, 9:00-Noon Daily snack.

For information/registration • 334-409-0522 • www.montgomeryballet.org

Single or multiple weeks available.

Mr. Gus’ Ristorante M o n t g o m e r y ’s F i n e s t Italian & Greek Cuisine

Tuesday-Friday 11 am - 2:30 pm 4:30 - 9 pm

Saturday * 6 am - 2 pm 4:30 - 9 pm

6268 Atlanta Highway Montgomery AL 334-356-4662 *Where Montgomery meets for Saturday breakfast.

14

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

Off the Beaten path

Quite the Pear

I

first noticed it last summer while mowing the lawn. The pear tree in our backyard seemed to be dropping leaves – which happens every year – except it was unseasonably early. Was it the heat, or maybe a gust of wind, since several branches lay scattered around the base of the tree as well? I daydreamed briefly of pear cobbler and strengthened my Niko Corley resolve to ensure the delicious green fruit on the tree survived to maturity. I ran the hosepipe out to the tree, let it run for 10 minutes, stepped back to quench my own thirst and pondered the mystery. Bella and Coco panted patiently at my side.

Every day before work the next week I watered the tree for a few minutes to see if the growing clutter of leaves and branches piling up around its base would diminish. To my disappointment, they didn’t.

I was stumped, because the tree otherwise looked healthy. One morning not too long thereafter, I was staring out the kitchen window into the backyard at the pear tree, scratching my head about this strange problem when I saw Coco, sitting beneath the tree, seemingly pondering the same issue with equal intensity. Bella lay a few feet away, sunning.

I started to turn away but movement caught my eye. To my great surprise, Coco leaped straight up into the branches of the tree, snag a pear, a foot of branch and a cluster of leaves in her teeth.

Her back feet must have cleared the ground by three feet. She snuck away, pear in mouth, trying to evade the suddenly interested Bella.

I chuckled as I watched her chomp down on that hard green pear and then turn back to the tree, get a running start and rocket up into its branches after another. Seeing her daughter’s achievement, Bella attempted

the same, but without the same success. She tried once more, then sulked away to sun herself. When Coco went to snag another, two pears fell and Bella pounced on one, happily carrying it back to her sunny patch to enjoy.

Sally and I laughed about our pair of pear eaters, though it wasn’t much of a shock given their usual antics. Besides being fine hunting dogs in their own right, they have also rid our section of the neighborhood of possums and are adept at wrangling up shad on fishing trips.

For the rest of the summer Coco worked every side of that tree pulling down pears, with Bella waiting in anticipation for the telltale thud in the grass of green fruit hitting the ground.

When the pears finally ripened, nearly every fruit within seven feet of the ground had already been harvested by Coco.

There weren’t more than a few I could reach without the aid of a step ladder. But despite Coco’s best efforts we still managed a few pear pies from her leftovers.

After the leaves fell last fall, Coco still eyed the tree every time she walked by. More than once I caught her sitting beneath its bare branches gazing longingly upward. When the leaves reappeared this spring there was an extra spring in her step. The pears are now golf-ball sized, and at the tree’s base, fallen leaves and branches have ‘mysteriously’ begun reappearing.

Niko Corley spends his free time hunting, fishing, boating, enjoying the outdoors and rescuing pears from the jaws of his canines. He can be contacted at cootfootoutfitters@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter @cootfootoutfitters.

www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

15

health

Marci’s Medicare Answers June 2013 Dear Marci, Does Medicare cover prostate cancer screenings?

— Raoul Dear Raoul, Yes. Medicare covers a yearly prostate cancer screening for all male Medicare patients age 50 and older. This screening includes a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test and a digital rectal exam (DRE).

Original Medicare, the traditional Medicare program offered directly through the federal government, covers 100 percent of its approved amount for the PSA test, even before you meet the Part B deductible. A deductible is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance begins to cover your health care services.You will not have to pay anything for the PSA test if you see doctors or other health care providers who accept Medicare and take assignment. Doctors who accept Medicare and take assignment cannot charge you more than the Medicare approved amount.

Original Medicare also covers 80 percent of the cost of the DRE after you meet your annual Part B deductible. Generally, you are responsible for paying a 20 percent coinsurance for the DRE. Call 800-MEDICARE or visit www.medicare.gov to locate doctors who accept Medicare and take assignment.

Medicare private health plans, also known as Medicare Advantage plans, must cover the same preventive services that Original Medicare covers. However, they can do so with different costs and rules. Contact your plan to see what costs and rules apply.

Dear Marci, I recently received services at a nearby hospital and was told that my stay was considered to be an observation stay. What is an observation stay?

— Adina Dear Adina, An observation stay is an outpatient hospital stay in which you receive outpatient medical services to help the hospital doctor decide whether you need to be admitted as a hospital inpatient or whether you can be discharged. Observation stays may occur when patients go to the emergency room and have symptoms that require hospital physicians to monitor them.

These stays typically last no more than 24 to 48 hours, but could last longer.

Services you receive during an observation stay are considered to be outpatient services and are, therefore, covered under Medicare Part B (medical insurance). On the other hand, if you are a hospital inpatient, Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) covers most of your care.

In order to be considered a hospital inpatient, you must have been formally admitted into the hospital by an attending physician. If you have not been formally admitted as a hospital 16

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

inpatient, you are considered an outpatient, and the services you receive will generally be covered under Medicare Part B. It is oftentimes difficult to know whether the hospital considers you to be an inpatient or outpatient. However, this distinction is important to know, since it determines the way Medicare covers your care. If you stay overnight in the hospital, it may be helpful for you to ask hospital staff whether you are considered an inpatient or outpatient. This will help you understand the costs for your hospital stay and any skilled nursing care you may need.

Dear Marci, Can I have both Medicare and VA coverage?

— Richard Dear Richard, Yes, you can have both Medicare and VA (Veterans Affairs) coverage. If you have been honorably discharged or released from the military, naval or air service, you may be able to get health coverage through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).You can also have Medicare, if you are eligible for Medicare due to age, disability, End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Lou-Gehrig’s disease (ALS).

Keep in mind that Medicare and VA benefits do not work together. Medicare does not pay for care that you receive at a VA facility. In order for Medicare to cover your care, you must receive care at a Medicare-certified facility that works with your Medicare coverage. Additionally, in order for your VA coverage to cover your care, you must usually receive health care services at a VA facility.

You may consider enrolling in Medicare Part B (Medicare medical insurance), even if you have VA coverage. Having Medicare Part B may guarantee you medical coverage outside the VA health system. Additionally, if you delay enrolling into Medicare Part B when you are first eligible to do so, you may incur a premium penalty and experience gaps in coverage.

Some veterans use their VA drug coverage to get their medications, since VA drug coverage may offer more generous prescription drug coverage than Medicare Part D, the Medicare prescription drug benefit. Since VA drug coverage is also considered creditable (as good or better than the Medicare prescription drug benefit), those who use VA drug coverage can get their medications from a VA facility and delay enrolling into Medicare Part D without penalty.

If you have questions about VA benefits and coverage, contact the VA Health Administration Center at 1-800-733-8387 or 1-877-222-VETS (877-222-8387).

Marci's Medicare Answers is a service of the Medicare Rights Center, the nation’s largest independent source of information and assistance for Medicare recipients. Visit www.medicarerights.org to subscribe to “Dear Marci’s” free educational newsletter.

medicare

Find a Nursing Home: Step-by-Step

M

By Bob Moos, Southwest Regional Public Affairs Officer Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

ost people think they’ll never need nursing home care. But some of us will, either because we’re recovering from an injury or illness or can’t fend for ourselves at home anymore. Families often must find a nursing home for a loved one at a moment’s notice, after a crisis or emergency. If you acknowledge this possibility before it happens, and get started sooner, you’ll spare yourself a lot of stress and have more time to consider all the options.

Medicare covers some skilled nursing and rehabilitative care if a physician orders it after a hospital stay. But Medicare, like most health insurance, generally doesn’t pay for long-term custodial care. Most people depend on 1) private long-term care insurance, 2) their own resources, or 3) Medicaid.

Even under the best circumstances, choosing a nursing home can be trying.

There are always many emotions at work.

But if you do your research and take it one step at a time, you’ll be able to make an informed decision. #1 Find nursing homes in your area Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare website – www.medicare.gov/nhcompare -- can search for homes by city, county, state or ZIP code. Also ask for recommendations from friends, family or neighbors who may have had a loved one in a nursing home. If you’re in the hospital, the discharge planner or social worker can help. #2 Compare the nursing homes you’re considering The Nursing Home Compare web-

site provides detailed information on recent health and safety inspections, nursing homes’ staffing and such quality measures as whether residents are in pain or losing weight. The site uses a five-star rating system to help families understand the differences in the quality of care between nursing homes.

However, the website and rating system aren’t meant to be the final word on the subject.

Talk to friends or, better yet, your physician.You may also want to call your state’s long-term care ombudsman to find out 1) how many complaints have been lodged against particular nursing homes, 2) what kinds of complaints they were, and 3) whether they’ve been resolved. Alabama’s long-term care ombudsman’s number is 334-242-5770 #3 Visit the nursing homes that seem promising Visit the nursing homes that interest you, or if you can’t, ask a friend or family member to visit for you. Make an appointment and think of the questions important to you. Can you have visitors at any time?

Can you choose what time to get up, go to sleep or bathe? Can you bring your pet? What if you don’t like what’s on the day’s menu?

Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare website contains a helpful checklist of

questions that cover everything from care and safety to activities and food. Print it from your computer and take it with you on your visit.

Don’t be afraid to talk money. Get a copy of the nursing home’s schedule of charges to find out which services are included in the basic fee and which cost extra.

Talk to residents and their family members about whether they’re satisfied with the care. Then, make a second visit, at a different hour of the day from your first call. #4 Choose the nursing home that best fits your individual needs Trust your senses. If a nursing home doesn’t look clean or smell right, you may want to scratch it off your list. Once you make a choice, run it by people who understand your personal and health care needs, such as your family and doctor.

If you’re looking for a nursing home for someone else, include that person in the decision-making as much as possible.

For more tips on selecting a nursing home, visit Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare website at www.medicare.gov/nhcompare or call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227. A free Medicare publication, a “Guide to Choosing a Nursing Home,” can be downloaded from the website or requested by phone.

Social Security Disability Law

Brenda L. Vann Attorney at Law, P. C.

“Practicing Social Security Disability Law for seventeen years.”

Call toto schedule schedule Call FREE aa FREE Consultation.

Consultation.

The Strickland Building • 4252 Carmichael Rd. Suite 113 • Montgomery, AL 36106 334-272-6425 • 888-272-6465 (Toll Free) • E-mail brenda@brendavann.com No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers. www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

17

Lake Martin Eating

feature

Story by Jake Roberts. Photos by Bob Corley ne of the largest hydroelecThis list is by no means compretric projects of its time is hensive, and their inclusion is not a short drive from Montan endorsement of the food served gomery - the Thomas Wesley Martin by these establishments (I can only Dam. Begun in 1923, the structure dream of having time to sample them created a 40,000-acre lake that has all). It is, however, representative of done more than produce electricity the variety of dining options in the from water. In the minds of many, that area, from gourmet fare where preoriginal purpose is overshadowed by sentation and atmosphere are integral the recreation and lake-area living parts of the experience, to meat-andopportunities that floated in on the threes, burger joints and pizzerias. rising water. Along with the people I am indebted to Bobbie Limbers that made the area home, and the and Margie Miller, two long-time lake thousands of annual visitors, came the residents. Without their knowledge of need for services; marinas, lawn care both the well-known and the obbusinesses, auto repair shops, health scure, it would have been impossible professionals and, of course, places to track down these places in the to eat. allotted time.

O

Take 231 north out of Montgomery, 170 N. out of Wetumpka, a right on 63 into Eclectic.

There, dare I say it, you’ll find an eclectic mix of cuisine.

Miss Willie’s Corner Café 35 Kowaliga Rd. Eclectic, AL 36024 Tue-Thu 11a-8p Fri 11a-11p Sat 11a-10p Sun 11a-4p

[

18

Kas’s Corner 12 Kowaliga Road Eclectic, AL 36024 334-639-4701 Mon-Thu 11a-8p Fri, Sat 11a-10p

Cozumel Mexican Grill 62 Claud Rd. Eclectic, AL 36024 334-541-2231 Mon-Thu 11a-9p Fri 11a-10:30p Sat 11a-10p June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

Alexander City 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20

1 Miss Willie’s Corner Cafe’ 2 Kas’s Corner 3 Cozumel Mexican Grill 4 Cotton’s Bar-B-Cue 5 Wahoo Grill 6 Harbor Restaurant /Bar Anchor Bay 7 Red Hill Cottage & Cafe’ 8 Chuck’s Pizza & Subs 9 Niffer’s 10 Uncle Nick’s Smokehouse 11 Oskars Cafe’ 12 Poplar Dawgs 13 Homeplate Cafe’ 14 Cross Road Cafe’ 15 Sho’Nuff BBQ 16 Carlisle’s Drug Co. 17 Cafe’ 128 18 Jake’s on Broad 19 JR’s Sports Bar & Grille 20 Russell Medical Center Cafeteria 21 Catherine’s Cafe’ 22 SpringHouse Restaurant 23 Kowaliga Restaurant

Hwy 2

Hw

y6

3

80

y Hw 0

28

Dadeville 13

Hw

y

49

14

Lake Martin 21, 22

Hwy 34

12 11 10

23 8

7

9

d.

29 /R

0

17

Hw y

63

H

Eclectic 1, 2, 3

Hw y2

wy

0

y5

Hw

ed Hil lR

y

Hw

29

63

Walnut Hill

y4

4

y2

5

Hw

Hw

Ca

sta

d.

wa

aR

yR

rin

d.

Ma

6

9

Cartographic Note

Locations are approximate. © 2013 Polizos/Corley Group, LLC

www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

19

Take 63 north to Cotton’s BBQ.

[

Cotton’s Bar-B-Cue 4485 Kowaliga Road (Hwy 63) 334-541-2217 Eclectic, AL 36024-4861 Wed-Sat 10:30a-8p Sun 10:30a-3p

Continue north on 63, take a right on Highway 229, and a mile or so down the road you’ll find Wahoo’s on the left.

Wahoo Grill 2514 Red Hill Rd. Eclectic, AL 36024 334-857-3474 Thu-Sat 4-10p

Proceed along 229 with a left on Castaway Island Road, at the end of which you’ll find The Harbor Restaurant & Bar at Anchor Bay. The Harbor Restaurant & Bar at Anchor Bay 2001 Castaway Island Rd. Eclectic, AL 36024 334-857-3635 www.Harbordocksrestaurant.com Thu 5-10p Fri 5-midnight Sat 11a-midnight

Retrace your route back to 229, take a left then an immediate right.While it’s still 229, it also goes by the name Red Hill Road, which explains why a couple of miles along its length you’ll find none other than Red Hill Cottage & Cafe’.

Red Hill Cottage & Café 4068 Red Hill Rd. Tallassee, AL 36078 334-857-2233 www.lakemartin.com/pages/Red-Hill-Cottage-and-Cafe Thur, Fri 11a-8p Sat 7a-8p

[

Retrace your route down 229/Red Hill Road and take a right onto Highway 50. Several miles up Highway 50 take a left on Marina Road. Chuck’s awaits you at the end of the road.

Chuck’s Pizza & Subs 237 Marina Road Dadeville, AL 36853 256-825-6871 Chucksmarina.com Mon-Thu 11a-3p Fri-Sat 11a-9p Sun 11a-6p 20

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

Retrace your route up Marina Road to Highway 50, take a left to Walnut Hill, and a left on Highway 49. A few miles up 49 is Niffer’s (left), Uncle Nick’s Smokehouse (right) and Oskar’s (left), in that order.

Niffer’s 7500 Hwy 49 S. Dadeville, AL 36853 256-825-5950 www.Niffersplace.com Mon-Wed 5-9p Thur 11a-9:30p Fri- Sat 11a-10p Sun 11a-8:30p

Uncle Nick’s Smokehouse 6993 Highway 49 South Dadeville, AL 256-307-1405 www.Nicksmokehouse.com Mon-Thu 5-9p Fri-Sat 11a-10p Sun 11a-3p Oskars Café 6684 Highway 49 South Dadeville, AL 36853 256-825-4827 www.oskarscafe.com/

Retrace your route to Dadeville and get on Highway 280 to Alexander City. Exit at the Historic District sign which will lead you into town. I won’t attempt turn-by-turn directions, but find Alex City Shopping Center Drive and you’ll find Sho’Nuff BBQ. Sho’Nuff BBQ 651 Dadeville Rd. Alexander City, AL 256-234-7675 www.shonuffbbq.com/

Carlisle Drug store, Cafe’ 128 and Jake’s Continue along Highway 49 and take a are in downtown Alex City proper, within left on Highway 34. Drive a few miles sight of each other separated by the railroad tracks. JR’s Sports and there’s Poplar Dawgs.

Bar & Grill is few blocks away.

Poplar Dawgs 10277 County Road 34 Dadeville, Al 36853 256-825-9288 Carlisle’s Drug Co. Mon-Tue 11a-2p 12 Main St. Wed-Thu 11a-2p; 5-8p Alexander City, AL Fri-Sat 11a-2p; 5-9p 256-234-4211 Mon-Fri 8a-6p Retrace your route to Highway 49 and Sat 8a-4p take a left to Dadeville. Homeplate Cafe’ is downtown and relatively easy Café 128 to locate.

128 Calhoun St. Homeplate Café Alexander City, AL 191 E. South St. 35010-1932 Dadeville, AL 36853 256-212-9463 256-825-0583 Tue-Thu 10a-6p Lakemartindining.com Fri 10a-8p Sun-Fri 7a-2p Sat 10a-2p

[

When driving into Dadewill from the south (on 49) take a left on W. Lafayette (Public Health Dept. is on the left).

About two miles down this road take a left on Gibson Rd. Cross Road Cafe’ is about a mile on the left.

[

Cross Road Café 868 Gibson Rd. Dadeville, AL 36 256-307-1400 Tue-Thu 11a-8p Fri, Sat 11a-9p

Jake’s on Broad 16 Broad St. Alexander City, AL 256-234-4300 Tue-Fri 11a-1:30p; 5-9p Sat 5-9p Sun 11a-1:30p http://jakesonbroad.com/ JR’s Sports Bar & Grille 145 Alabama St. Alexander City, AL 256-329-2328 www.jrssportsbarandgrill.com/ Mon-Thur 10a-9p Fri, Sat 10a-10p

Near where Highway 280 and Highway 63 cross is Russell Medical Center.Yes. Medical Center. As in hospital.The cafeteria

is said to be a nice place to eat.They have a ‘menu line’ to call and find out what’s for lunch.

Russell Medical Center Cafeteria 3316 Highway 280 Alexander City, AL 35010 Mon-Fri 6:30-9:30a; 11a-1:30p Sat,Sun 6:30-9a; 11a-1p Menu Line 256-329-7625

Take Highway 63 south from Alex City (it crosses 280 near the medical center).

Several miles down 63 is Catherine’s Cafe’ on the right, visible from the highway, with Spring House a stone’s throw away.

Catherine’s Café at Russell Crossroads 17 Russell Farms Rd. Alexander City, AL 35010 256-215-7070 (877615-4074) www.Catherinesatcrossroads.com Mon-Sat 8a-6p Sun. 8a-3p SpringHouse Restaurant at Russell Crossroads 12 Benson Mill Road Alexander City, AL 35010

256 215-7080 http://springhouseatcrossroads.com/ Fri-Sat 11a-2p Wed-Sat 5:30-9p Sun 10a-2p

Head back south down 63, cross the Kowaliga Bridge and take a right to Kowaliga Restaurant.

Kowaliga Restaurant 295 Kowaliga Marina Rd. Eclectic, AL 36024 256-215-7035 http://kowaligarestaurant.com/ Wed, Thur, Sun 11a-10p Fri, Sat 11a-11p Congratulation! You’ve just completed a Great Circle Tour of decidedly different dining options around Lake Martin. Let us know if your favorite spot isn’t on the list so we can include it in a future article. www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

21

in every life

T

Tips for Healthy Traveling

ravel increases during the summer, whether it’s to distant destinations or off to visit family and friends. The joy of travel can rapidly deteriorate if health problems occur. Careful pre-trip planning can help to prevent problems or facilitate speedy resolution if problems occur. The following questions may Arlene Morris be helpful as you make plans for your travel: 1. Are specific immunizations recommended for your destination? If so, what timing is required prior to departure? Travelers recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control are at http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/ 2. If you will be visiting small children, do you need to consider a TDap or Shingles vaccination?

3. What supplies or medications do you use to support your health? Make a list of the quantity of various supplies you will need and how you will obtain these at your destination. n If a prescription is required, your healthcare provider’s prescription may not be honored across state or country borders. How much will you need to take with you? Can you obtain this amount pre-departure or will you need to consider shipping refills? n Check regulations of airline, train and other transportation venues about healthcare supplies or medications. Original containers may be required, or there may be a limit on quantity. Do your supplies or medications require temperature control and if so, how can you arrange for this?

4. What is the climate of the travel destination at the time of year you will be visiting? n What will you need to be most comfortable at your destination? Decrease in temperature control from aging or health issues can increase sensitivity to heat or cold. Do you need to check ahead about heating 22

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

or cooling where you will be staying? Can you plan for rest breaks with tourist guides? n Are you especially sensitive to sun or temperature due to your medications? Will a hat, personal fan or heater, layering clothing be helpful?

5. Do you have special dietary needs or preferences you can take with you or obtain at your destination? n Are there cautions about food borne illnesses at your destination? Consider the risks for hepatitis, salmonella, etc. n What foods at your destination are consistent with the diet best for your health and that do not interfere with your medications? How is food prepared?

For example, a problem could occur if you need foods low in sodium (salt) and none are available.

Can you take foods/snacks consistent with your diet? n Will you be able to plan times for eating at the intervals best suited to your needs?

6. Do you wish to take over-the-counter medications for pain, potential allergies, intestinal upset, insect repellant, sunscreen, etc? Ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider if there are potential interactions, undesired side effects, or a recommended interval for taking these around other medications or meals.

7. If traveling across time zones, how can you plan your itinerary to minimize jet lag, fatigue, insomnia, blood sugar fluctuations?

Be sure to carry a small personal health record that includes recent surgeries, health conditions, a list of medications with dose and time of day, and emergency contacts. Inform your travel companions of any potential needs or warning signals.

Anticipate and plan for the unexpected, and you’ll enjoy your travels even more!

Arlene H. Morris, EdD, RN, CNE is Professor of Nursing, Auburn Montgomery School of Nursing. Reach her at amorris@ aum.edu.

Give Yourself Some Credit

S

ometimes people don’t give themselves enough credit. But if you work and pay Social Security taxes, you’re earning credit for yourself every payday -credit that will pay off later in life when it comes time for retirement, or in the event that you become disabled and are unable to work. This credit can also help your family if you die early and need to provide for those who depend on you.

You qualify for Social Security benefits by earning Social Security credits when you work in a job or are selfKylle’ McKinney employed and pay Social Security payroll taxes. In 2013, you receive one credit for each $1,160 of earnings, up to the maximum of four credits per year. Most people need 10 years of work (40 credits) to be eligible for retirement benefits.

The number of credits needed for disability benefits depends on how old you are when you become disabled. For example, if you become disabled before age 24, you generally need 1 1/2 years of work (six credits) in the three years before you became disabled. At age 31 or older, you generally need at least 20 credits in the 10 years immediately before you became disabled.

In most cases, about 10 years of work is needed for a worker’s family to qualify for survivors benefits. Survivors of very young workers may be eligible if the deceased worker was employed for 1 1/2 years during the three years before his or her death.

You can find a detailed chart that shows exactly how many credits you would need in the online publication, “How You Earn Credits”, available at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10072.html. You also may want to read “Understanding the Benefits” for more information about Social Security and how it works.

You can find it online at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10024.html.

Next time you feel like someone else is taking credit for your hard work, just remember that YOUR hard work is earning YOU credit in ways you probably don’t even think about — Social Security credit.

Kylle’ McKinney, SSA Public Affairs Specialist, can be reached in Montgomery at 866593-0914, ext. 26265, or by e-mail at kylle.mckinney@ssa.gov

protect your eyes from summer sun!

EYE

F A C T S

‘ n C l i p

4255 Carmichael Court N. Montgomery • 334-277-9111

8007 U. S. Highway 231 Wetumpka • 334-567-9111

S a v e

Roy T. Hager, M.D., F.A.C.S. | Jeffrey M. Healey, M.D. James D. Izer, M.D. | Richard M. Murphy, O.D.

‘ n

• check for minimum 99% UV-A & UV-B protection • wrap around sunglasses also protect eyes from the side • some contact lenses have UV protection (ITEC has them!) but it’s still a good idea to wear sunglasses

C l i p

S a v e

Sun exposure can increase the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. The right sunglasses can reduce this risk.

New Mobile Site for Smartphone Users

The Social Security Administration has a new mobile optimized website, specifically aimed at smartphone users across the country. People visiting the agency’s website, www.socialsecurity. gov, via smartphone (Android, Blackberry, iPhone, and Windows devices) will be redirected to the agency’s new mobile-friendly site. Once there, visitors can access a mobile version of Social Security’s Frequently Asked Questions, an interactive Social Security number (SSN) decision tree to help people identify documents needed for a new/ replacement SSN card, and mobile publications which they can listen to in both English and Spanish right on their phone.

“We are committed to meeting the changing needs of the American people and the launch of our new mobile site helps reinforce our online presence and adaptability to advances in technology,” said Carolyn Colvin, Acting Social Security Commissioner. “I encourage all smartphone users looking for Social Security information to take advantage of our new mobile site.”

In addition, visitors to the new mobile site can learn how to create a personal My Social Security account to get an online Social Security Statement, learn more about Social Security’s awardwinning online services, and connect with Social Security on Facebook, Twitter,YouTube, and Pinterest. For people unable to complete their Social Security business online or over the telephone, the agency also unveiled a new mobile field office locator. The new mobile office locator has the capability to provide turn-by-turn directions to the nearest Social Security office based on information entered by the person.

“With significant budget cuts of nearly a billion dollars each year over the last few years, we must continue to leverage technology and find more innovative ways to meet the evolving needs of the American public without compromising service,” said Colvin.

Each year, more than 35 million Social Security web page views come via smartphones.

For more information, go to www. socialsecurity.gov.

*For a free copy of ITEC’s Viewpoint newsletter call 334-277-9111. www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

23

financial

Fraud Busters T

he Alabama Securities Commission (ASC) is a state government agency with a mission to protect Alabama investors from securities fraud and preserve legitimate capital markets in Alabama. The ASC is an unwavering advocate for Alabama’s “main street” investors.

The ASC doesn’t operate from tax payer funds. Instead, in Fiscal Year 2012 Joseph Borg, Exec. it delivered $12,689,077 to the state Dir, ASC. General Fund from revenues generated by the collection of licensing fees, settlements, and administrative, civil and criminal actions.

ASC has a staff of about 50 employees, including six attorneys, 12 special agents and 13 securities analysts. It’s able to act quickly and decisively to protect citizens from securities fraud and deceptive marketing practices.

Registration Division: Ensures proper licensing and registration of companies and individuals who offer securities and the products offered; financial planners or investment advisors providing fee-based financial planning from any location to Alabamians; and money transmitters conducting business in Alabama. In FY12 this division processed 143,493 registrations and exemptions.

Auditing and Examination Division: Responsible for conducting on-site routine and for-cause examinations. Every three years, auditors examine all stateregulated investment advisers domiciled in Alabama, and audit broker-dealers, their branch offices, and sale of checks agents on a for-cause basis. In FY12, this division conducted 51 audits, 13 being for-cause examinations driven by investigations, customer complaints or licensing issues.

Enforcement Division: Special agents/investigators have over 300 years of combined law enforcement experience to investigate suspicious, deceptive, unsuitable and/or illegal investment practices. During FY12, the division’s efforts resulted in $3,131,715 in victim restitution; 19 arrests;

24

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

24 convictions; and secured 125 years of prison time for con artists. Additionally, a large financial company settlement was completed last November returning over $14 million to 5,837 Alabama investors.

The ASC has been recognized by national media as having one of the highest enforcement success rates in the nation.

Education and Public Affairs Division: Promotes safe and wise investor education programs as the first line of defense for Alabamians to protect themselves from financial exploitation. During FY12, the division provided 71 financial education, investor education, and fraud prevention outreach programs to 5,512 citizens in Alabama, including junior high school through college students, public and private school teachers, working adults and retired seniors. The division helped acquire over $30,000 in grant funds from the Investor Protection Trust in Washington, D.C. to support education events, provide teachers free “Basics of Saving and Investing” curriculum, produce brochures for adults from Kiplinger’s Personal Finance and more.

For more information about ASC statistics, program descriptions, enforcement actions, education programs, special area for military and more, visit www.asc. alabama.gov. Call the ASC at 1-800-2221253 with inquiries concerning securities broker-dealers, agents, investment advisers, investment adviser representatives, financial planners, registration status of securities or debt management programs, to report suspected fraud or to obtain consumer information. The ASC provides free investor education and fraud prevention materials in print, on our website and through educational presentations upon request. Always check with the ASC BEFORE investing your hard earned money!

(This article was funded by a generous grant from the Investor Protection Trust (www.investorprotection.org)

crafter’s corner

Y

Picture Perfect

ou’ve heard the saying “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Well, I believe a well displayed picture is worth a thousand more.

As an amateur photographer, I’m always looking for ways to showcase my artwork.

But if you’re anything like me, a blank wall is one of two things: invigorating or

terrifying. It’s either a blank canvas waiting for my inspiration, or a roadblock to my creativity.

Hanging pictures can be difficult – picking the sizes, the spacing, the order, the placement.

Here are a few diagrams I found online to help you get started. The best way to approach it is to play around

Staircase 1 – 16x20 2 – 11x14s 2 – 8x10s

with the pictures to determine what best fits the space you need to fill.

Callie Corley began crafting when she was old enough to hold a pencil, squeeze a glue bottle, and use a pair of scissors. Send pictures and a description of this project, or any of your craft projects, to primemagdesign@gmail.com.

1 – 20x20

4 – 8x10s

Staircase 1 – 16x20 2 – 8x8s 6 – 11x14s 1 – 16x20

2 – 12x12s

4 – 8x10s

1 – 8x10

1 – 16x20

2 – 5x7s

4 – 8x10s

www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

25

feature

Cruising through Five Countries & Ten Centuries Story by Andrea Gross Photos by Irv Green

T

he scenes drift by — castles perched on hills, towns Feudal reality again melds with fairytale fantasy as we enter with multi-colored buildings, fields with checkerboard Germany. patterns. Then, as if a shade has been drawn, all I see Because rivers were once the main means of transportais dark, gray stone. The Viking Njord, a new vessel larger and tion, towns and cities were built on their shores, and we’re more environmentally friendly than most riverboats, has never very far from land. I step out on the veranda of my entered a lock. A few minutes later, it exits, having been gently stateroom, and as we sail eastward along the Rhine, I see raised more than 20 feet. Thus we cruise from Amsterdam to one castle after another. Each is special in its own way — a Budapest, stair-stepping up and tower here, a drawbridge there, down along three rivers (the ivy-covered walls everywhere Rhine, Main and Danube), two — but they are all also starcanals (the Amsterdam and the tlingly similar. They were homes Main-Danube Canal) and 69 for feudal lords as well as locks. It takes 13 leisurely days fortresses that defended their to traverse 1,200 miles, visit fiefdoms which, I figure, makes five countries and time-travel them a medieval version of a through ten centuries of Eurogovernor’s mansion surrounded pean history. by armed guards.

Our first stop is Kinderdijk, Many days we wander where we’re greeted by 19 through small villages filled with windmills, all starkly outlined cobblestoned streets, halfagainst a somber sky. The scene timbered houses and narrow is so perfect in its simplicity, so buildings in rainbow colors. stereotypically Dutch, that it Other times we explore big could be the cover of a tourist cities where the buildings are brochure for the Netherlands. more stately and the ambience The mills, built in the mid-1700s more harried. But wherShipboard entertainment features Austrian food and music. and still in working condition, ever we are, we overdose on are reminiscent of ones used in chocolate, pretzels and beer the Middle Ages, when the Dutch realized in addition to grind- before returning to the ship for a white-tablecloth dinner. The ing corn, wind-powered mills also could help drain wetlands days, as well as our stomachs, are full. and reclaim land from the sea.

It’s in Nuremberg that we bridge the centuries, moving 26

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

The Danube, above, divides Budapest into two distinctive neighborhoods: the old town of Buda and the more modern area of Pest.The Cologne Cathedral, below, dates back to the 1200s and is a masterful example of Gothic architecture.

from the Middle Ages, when the city was the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire, to the 1930s and ‘40s, when it was the unofficial capital of the Nazis’ Third Reich.

“Hitler dreamed of an empire that would be as large as the ancient Roman one,” says our guide, as we pass the parade grounds where Hitler staged party rallies.

I notice that the nearby building, the massive Kongresshalle, bears a startling resemblance to the Roman Colisseum.

We’re still munching on Lebkuchen, the traditional gingerbread cookies that we bought in Nuremberg, when the ship enters the lock that takes us to a watershed 1,332 feet above sea level, the highest point on any European waterway. From here our trip is literally downhill, but each stop gives us another high.

We sail through Austria’s wine country before spending a day in Vienna, where we attend a classical concert featuring the music of Mozart and Strauss. Aboard the ship, we learn how to make strudel and listen to rollicking music as we’re served a buffet of Austrian specialties.

After a brief stop in Slovakia, we find it altogether fitting that our river cruise ends in Budapest, a city divided physically as well as metaphorically by the Danube.

“Buda,” on the west side of the Danube, is the old part of the city, replete with a castle, fortress and several museums.

Eight bridges join it to “Pest,” the more modern area that, although it is still home to sites of historic and cultural significance, is characterized by expansive boulevards, fine restaurants and good shopping.

That night during our last dinner aboard the ship we sit with friends and reflect on our trip. In less than two weeks we’ve traveled from the

hip atmosphere of Amsterdam to the more restrained elegance of Budapest, walked through the winding alleys of ancient towns as well as the wide aisles of upscale department stores and learned about events both tragic and heroic.

“It’s been a crash course in European culture and history as well as a relaxing vacation,” says one fellow.

Just then the pianist begins playing the familiar Gershwin tune, “Who could ask for anything more?” and we all start laughing. It’s as if the pianist has read our thoughts. www.vikingrivercruises. com

www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

65 "__ Three Lives":TV oldie 66 Michelangelo figure 67 Pear variety 68 Charity 69 Suisse peaks 70 Like an animated Pea? 71 Cold-cock Down 1 The home team gets the last ones 2 Hersey's "A Bell For __" 3 "Nearer, __, to Thee" 4 Messed up 5 Former Asian state known for goat wool 6 Wheel holder 7 Golda of Israel 8 Supplement 9 Poison in some whodunits 10 Kids' book connectables 11 GP's gp.

12 Gently stroke 13 Place for a ring 21 Racetrack surface 22 Door sign 25 Go through energetically, as drawers 26 1966 Michael Caine title role 27 Pasta topper 29 "Little Women" woman 30 Pioneering computer 32 Letters before nus 33 Tea leaves holder 34 Wood shaver 35 Fake name 37 Slinky's shape 39 Fashion monogram 43 Steinway alternatives

44 Trucker with a handle 45 Never 46 "Elephant Boy" actor 50 Alaskan brown bear 53 Iraqis, usually 55 Nabisco brand named for its flavor 56 The Penguin, to Batman 57 Playground retort MCA_Ad_01.13_Prime_Layout 1 58 Can't stand

59 "Ouch!"

60 Fire truck item 61 Mineral spring 62 Feel sick 63 Workout unit © 2013 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC. 1/2/13 2:00 PM Page 1

We Specialize in Adult and Senior Fitness!

• Customized exercise programs for ALL levels of fitness • Full line of cardiovascular and strength training equipment • Indoor walking track • Blood pressure checks before and after exercise • Friendly atmosphere • Convenient parking Just wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes Flexible Hours: Mon thru Friday – 6 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Saturday – 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Sunday – 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

MCA Fitness Center 2119 East South Boulevard

We’re located right next to Baptist South Hospital on the ground floor of the Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute

l Offer Specia IRT

-SH hip FREhEmT embers ery

om wit e Montg s! r for Prim e d a e R

Call 280-1409 for more information A Montgomery Cardiovascular Associates Facility

28

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

Answers on page 30.

Crossword Clues Across 1 Its "fleece was white as snow" 5 __ Sutra 9 Go with the flow 14 Pastoral verse 15 Pink-slipped 16 Ladies' man 17 Nicolas of "Adaptation" 18 Got one's uniform dirty, maybe 19 Mississippi, e.g.

20 Understand how things are done 23 Many frozen dinners are high in it 24 Taker of vows 25 Def Jam genre 28 Native American group 31 As plain as day, e.g.

33 Tax pro 36 Places to see links 38 Friend 40 Cancún uncle 41 36-Across opening 42 Simple floral garlands 47 Fair-hiring initials 48 Forensic facility 49 Spy wear 51 S' or oui 52 Do-favor link 54 Broadsided 58 Stage name of Ehrich Weiss, for whom the ends of 20-, 36- and 42-Across were props 61 Wife of Abraham 64 Long, long time

moving free ® with Mirabai

Ease Into Exercise July 11– August 4

by richard maltby, Jr.

The Music of Johnny Cash, Country Music Superstar From the songbook of Johnny Cash comes this unique musical about love, faith, struggle, success, rowdiness, redemption and home. More than two dozen classic hits—including I Walk the Line, A Boy Named Sue, Folsom Prison Blues, and, of course, Ring of Fire—paint a portrait of The Man in Black that is a foot-stompin’, crowd-pleasin’ salute to a uniquely American legend!

@ AlAbAmA ShAkeSpeAre FeStivAl 1-800-841-4273

www.ASF.net

/alabamashakes

/alabamashakes

I

t’s getting to be summer again and I’ve been getting e-mails for a month asking for advice on how to get on, and stay on, an exercise program.There are questions about commitment, pushing one’s limits, pain, and quick results. I go a little crazy this time of year because I’m at odds with a very vocal segment of my industry about how to get started with an exercise program.

They’re sincere, well-educated trainers but I don’t think they remember what it felt like to be de-conditioned.They expect beginners to do too much too soon. I’m beginning to think years of over-vigorous exercise dulls one’s sense of empathy.

I’ve seen it time and time again: determined beginners pushing so hard and either getting hurt and quitting, or just quitting because they couldn’t take it any more. If this sounds like you, don’t feel bad. It’s not your fault.We’ve heard “no pain, no gain” all our lives.We’ve watched contestants push themselves to the brink of disaster on TV, and we’re inundated with infomercial promises of big results in no time. It’s enough to make anyone think “I’ve got to beat myself senseless immediately so I can hurry up, get fit, have the body of my dreams and live happily ever-after.”

By the way, I’m not against vigorous exercise. On the contrary, I love vigorous exercise. But I wouldn’t have loved it nor would I have been safe doing it as a beginner. In my experience, that approach only works for a few stoic types and sets the rest of us up to fail. So how DO you get started?

I suggest starting by standing up and doing about five minutes of gentle limbering movements. Do this a few days in a row.You may be surprised at how good this feels and what a wonderful state of mind these simple natural movements put you in.You may find yourself exercising longer than five minutes after a few days because you LIKE it.

You may want to go for a little walk, then a brisk walk, then a half hour brisk walk. Don’t rush it. It doesn’t matter if it takes a couple of weeks, a couple of months, or a year.

Once you’re enjoying a half-hour brisk walk most days of the week, add some light weight training for your major muscle groups a couple of times a week. Increase the weight, number of reps and number of exercise days only when it feels too easy.

Build up slowly to weight training three days a week, with a day off in between sessions. Remember to keep it pleasant. If it’s too intense, it ceases to be fun and there’s a good chance you’ll quit.

This approach takes longer, but it works. It’s much more sustainable than those quick-fix pump-you-up methods.

Those intense immersion exercise programs remind me of the guy who beats his head against a brick wall.When asked why on earth he does that, he says: “because it feels so good when I stop” Ease in and invest in your body. It will pay you back in quality of life.

Mirabai Holland M.F.A., a leading authority in the Health & Fitness industry and a public health activist, specializes in preventive and rehabilitative exercise. Her Moving Free® approach to exercise is designed to provide a movement experience so pleasant it doesn’t feel like work (www.mirabaiholland.com). www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

29

Hearing History Pocket Ear Trumpets

Circa Late 19th/Early 20th Centuries 4” high, 2 3/4” diameter (small device is 3” x 2”) Useful for slight/moderate hearing loss.

These devices are made of celluloid to resemble tortoise shell. Celluloid, the first artificial plastic, was invented by John Wesley Hyatt by combining nitrocellulose, camphor and alcohol under heat and pressure. One of the first uses for celluloid was denture plates.

The Pocket Ear Trumpet has a telescoping brass ear piece to make it easier to slip in and out of a pocket or purse. Elaborate decorative brass grill work covers the receiving end of the trumpet.

(Vintage hearing instrument courtesy of Rick Love, M.D., All Ears Hearing Centers.)

30

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

moneywise

Financial Decision Making

Alan Wallace

“Dum-de-dum-dum. Dum-de-dum-dum-dum.”

If that series of syllables rings a bell, you likely grew up watching Sgt. Joe Friday and his partners on “Dragnet” solve crimes for the LAPD. And if you recall the series, you will surely remember Friday’s most common request when soliciting information from victims and witnesses: “Give us the facts, ma’am. Just the facts.”

Sound financial decision-making begins with “getting the facts.” A failure to base major financial decisions on reasonably complete and accurate information pretty much guarantees you will experience loss and suffer regret.Yet thousands of people do just that every day. So what facts should you get before making a major financial decision? #1 Relationship facts Who needs to be involved in the decision? If you are married, to what extent does your spouse need to be consulted? If other people will be affected, how should they be involved in the process? If you make the decision alone, what will the impact be on your relationships? #2 Needs, wants and benefits How is the product or service going to help you?

Does it meet a need, or merely satisfy a want or preference? Generally speaking, it is prudent to address needs before spending on less necessary desires. If the item meets a need, is it the best way of doing so, or is there a more effective solution?

Once you make the decision that a purchase makes sense, it is time to move to the following considerations. #3 Total cost Evaluate the total cost of the item, not just the initial price. If you are looking at a vehicle, for example, along with the purchase price, you might take the following into account since they could impact total cost: n Financial stability of the manufacturer n Reputation of the vendor n Product reliability n Warrantees n Cost of service, including ease of service access n Fuel type & fuel economy n Cost of insurance n Value of used models at trade-in or resale n Cost and difficulty of alterations (trailer hitch, bed-liner, other options) n Will you have to pay extra for shipping, delivery, document fees, etc.? n If you will borrow for the purchase, what additional costs are involved?

The same considerations apply to other decisions. For instance, if you are buying a printer for

your home computer, what will toner cost? How long will the printer work before an expensive part must be replaced? Are parts and service available?

Like me, you may have noticed that manufacturers price home printers low and then make it up on ink and toner later.

Can you negotiate a better price or the inclusion of added services or other benefits? If there is an added benefit offered, or a rebate, will it really help you, will you actually take advantage of it? How difficult (expensive) will it be to take advantage of a warranty if something goes wrong?

The point is to think broadly and long-term. #4 Alternatives, substitutes and data validation Comparison shopping is a form of “getting the facts.” What is the best product model or service option for you? What trade-offs are involved if you take a less ideal version? What vendors offer the item and what pricing choices are available? Have you verified your data from objective sources such as Consumer Reports or other independent raters of products and services? If not, how should you verify the accuracy of your information? Can you save long-term by purchasing a pre-owned item?

Are you better off spending more for a high-quality item that will last a long time or is a low-quality item a better value because you will not need longterm service?

Learning to get the facts before you part with your money is a fundamental step in making good financial choices. While this statement may seem self-evident, it is remarkable how often people do not apply the principle in daily life. Chances are that you can remember an occasion or two where you fell victim to not getting an important fact before making a purchase.

Alan Wallace, CFA, ChFC, CLU is a Senior Financial Advisor for Ronald Blue & Co.’s Montgomery office, www. ronblue.com/location-al. He can be reached at 334270-5960, or by e-mail at alan.wallace@ronblue.com. www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

31

prime diversions

Recent dvd releases Stand Up Guys, Safe Haven & Identity Theft

Stand Up Guys (R) It’s almost always a treat to watch old pros play to their strength in familiar waters. This crime drama with generous doses of humor and sentimentality serves up Christopher Walken, Al Pacino and Alan Arkin in one last walk on the wild side. Pacino is fresh out of jail after 28 years for a robbery that went bad; partner Walken kept in touch, and greets him at the gates.

Arkin was their wheel man, now in a nursing home from endstage emphysema, making one of the geezers a wheezer, too.

These guys were small timers, with little to show for their careers. Even worse, the Big Boss expects Walken to whack Pacino, because one of Al’s bullets killed the guy’s son in the battle that sent Al up the river. No credit for his long silence that kept the rest of them out of prison. The film covers a long day and night that may, or may not, be Al’s last. That’s time enough for some hookers, boozing, burglary and bloodshed, along with covering a subplot, or two. Walken and Pacino are the tough guys, with Arkin adding a different skill set to their criminal capabilities. They could have called the film Two and a Half Thugs. Whatever the premise, the trio sells the product nicely, and should please their legions of fans, as the actors and their characters live up to the title.

Safe Haven (R) It was a dark and stormy night. An attractive, disheveled young brunette (Julianne Hough) is fleeing from a scene of violence. She runs into the home of an elderly woman, emerging later with short blond hair, boarding a bus seconds ahead of the pursuing cops. She debarks (debuses?) in a small North Carolina coastal village, gets a job as a waitress, rents an isolated cabin, and reluctantly starts falling for the handsome widower (Josh Duhamel) who runs the general store with his two kids and uncle. We learn before the rest that she’s a “person of interest” in a Boston homicide, and probably not using her real name in her new home.

The quiet drama, based on a novel by Nicholas Sparks, plods along as its inevitable romance blossoms, with some helpful advice from her other new friend - an attractive neighbor (Cobie Smulders), who seems nearly as secretive about her own backstory as our leading lady on the lam. We like 32

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

Hough’s character, and hope she’s not really the perp of the pursuit, but don’t discover the truth of why she landed there for longer than the plot requires. Expect Mark Glass more focus on finding love than solving crimes as the tale unfolds. The action eventually picks up for a rather farfetched climax, with a welcome little perk at the end. If you find the actors engaging and have the patience for director Lasse Hallstrom’s idea of pace, the rewards are there.

Identify Thief (R) This lame-brained comedy might actually be funnier than this rating indicates, though wasting gifted actors like Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy calls for consequences. Identity theft is a serious problem. That doesn’t preclude milking laughs from a hyperbolized example, but the script has to serve the cast and concept far better than this one does.

Bateman plays a corporate financial drone with a lovely family and nice little life in Denver. McCarthy not only runs up huge bills and a DUI under his name in Florida, but does so just when he’s starting a great new job that will vanish within a week if he can’t clear the record first. She can borrow his name because it’s Sandy, which is beaten to death as a recurring joke about his manliness.Yeah. Really. That’s how low the comic branches hang. Jason heads to the Sunshine State, desperately hoping she’ll ‘fess up’ to his boss and save his career. He discovers he’s been victimized by a woman who is part criminal and part kook. Her house is bulging at the seams with stuff she’s bought under a slew of false IDs. She’s also in hot water with a local crime boss who has two sets of thugs chasing her. That sets Melissa and Jason on a seemingly interminable road trip in the tradition of farces like Planes, Trains & Automobiles, in which unlikely, if not antagonistic, characters find themselves stuck with each other for a journey.

Despite his record of helming episodes of many worthy sitcoms, director Seth Gordon appears overmatched by the scale of a film production with multiple locations. The movie is too long and too silly to work. McCarthy’s character is so ill-defined that when the action shifts to the script’s inevitable warm fuzzy bits, nothing resonates. Big disappointment.

Mark Glass is an officer and director of the St. Louis Film Critics Association.

Parting shots

Looking Out For Seniors The Alabama Silver-Haired Legislature, in partnership with Eastdale Estates, hosts a series of seminars aimed at keeping seniors safe and healthy. All programs are held at 10 a.m. at Eastdale Estates’ Activity Room, 5801 Eastdale Dr., Montgomery. For more information call Dr. John Bitter, 334-612-7624.

June 3 -- Montgomery County Sheriff’s Dept “Are You OK?” A program conducted by the department that telephones seniors who live alone to determine if they are alright, and to alert the appropriate person if they do not respond.

June 10 -- Central Alabama Aging Consortium An introduction to activities planned for World Elder Abuse Day to be held June 15, and how Montgomerians can get involved.

June 17 -- Adult Protective Services An explanation of services offered by the agency to insure the wellbeing of seniors.

June 24 -- Attorney General’s Office Assistant AG Monica Sheeley discusses financial scams that have robbed seniors of their money, and how you can protect yourself from scam artists.

(Above) Wilson Scott, Director of Montgomery Cardiac Associates (MCA) Fitness Center, and his wife Noel, host an Open House for members and friends of MCA. An awardwinning barbecue master, Wilson cooked food for the event.

(Right) Members of the Montgomery Ballet perform at the Montgomery Street Fair.

(Bottom) Johnson International Wine representative provides samples for the 1st Wednesday Wine Tasting at Charles Anthony’s at the Pub.

www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

33

Baby Boomers & Seniors

• control 70% of the disposable income

• will be 45% of the population by 2015 • read Prime Montgomery Your business can benefit from advertising to Prime’s readership, because Prime readers —

Pr i m e Celebrating Midlife and

Beyond

May 2013

FREE

• • • • • • • •

spend more per capita on groceries/over-the-counter products commissioned 27% of the past year’s landscaping account for 64% of the retail gardening market account for 89% of all dollars spent on travel account for 60% of all health care spending purchase 74% of all prescription drugs eat in restaurants an average of 3X/week purchase 52% of all new cars

To advertise contact: Bob Corley (334-202-0114) or Wendy McFarland (334-652-9080) primemontgomery@gmail.com 34

June 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

preserving Hometowna legend

Pr i m e

The Hank Williams Museum

e and Celebrating Midlif

June 2013

FREE

Beyond

• Adult Immu • Great Tomatoesnizations • Protecting Senior s • Fired? Don’t • How Loud is It? • Grilling Time Panic • • Puppies & childre n

Ea tin g Ma rti nure La ke -known & obsc Well

places to dine

.

• Tips • Pear Dogs Cruise • Destinations • Sr. Travel • Top 10 AlabamaaNursing Home • European River • Grandpa’s Garden ns • Selecting • Financial Decisio

www.primemontgomery.com | June 2013

35