October 2010

Prime Celebrating Midlife and Beyond

October 2010

FREE

Montgomery

Don’t say

Cheese!

Hair-Raising History

Branson, MO

The Vegas of the Midwest

Inside Tips on Aging Well n The Gentleman’s Bird n Route to Your Roots n Caramel Heaven! n Puzzles n

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Prime

Celebrating Midlife and Beyond

Montgomery

Features 10 what happens in branson...

Vegas may be the country’s premiere adult playground, but this Missouri city is pushing hard to proclaim itself tops for family entertainment.

By Tina Calligas

18 hair-raising history Montgomery has its fair share of dark and eerie tales, torn from pages of the city’s past.

By Jennifer Kornegay

23 tips for aging well Whether you’re just 50 or well beyond, it’s never too late to heed these valuable suggestions.

26 don’t say cheese!

The former office of noted Montgomery physician Luther Leonidas Hill is said to be stalked by the spirit of a young boy. (Hair-Raising History pg. 18)

From unexpected humor to rearranging the den furniture, local experts offer tried and true tips for making your holiday, travel and family photos the best ones yet.

By Lenore Vickrey

Entertainment 08 Around montgomery If you listen hard, you might hear Ole’ Hank belting out those lovesick blues.

25 Off the beaten path Bird hunting, southern-style.

By Niko Corley 31 prime diversions Newly-released DVDs reviewed, for your entertainment pleasure.

By Mark Glass

25

Financial 21 Moneywise Special circumstances may make this a good year to convert from a traditional to a Roth IRA.

By Alan Wallace

31

Health/Nutrition 09 Moving free with Mirabai To weigh, or not to weigh...

By Mirabai Holland

14

Lifestyles On the Cover

Prime October 2010

FREE

MontgoMery

Don’t

Cheese

14 a gracious plenty A slice of caramel heaven, from Mr. Pete and Miss Dot’s kitchen to yours.

By Patsy Smith 16 elder justice

Inside

Hair-Raising History

n n

Branson, MO

The Vegas of the Midwest

n Tips on Aging Well The Gentleman’s Bird Route to Your Roots n DVDs, Puzzles and More!

David Robertson, Sr. and other local photographers share picture-taking tips.

(Don’t Say Cheese! pg. 26)

A top expert warns scam artists are as prevalent today as ever.

By Joseph P. Borg 22 Discovering your past Good research and a county highway map can be your route to discovering your roots.

By Nancy Dupree

10

Medical 13 in every life Valuable tips to help you assess the credibility of your web research.

By Arlene Morris 17 marci’s medicare answers Can you keep your employer’s drug plan and enroll in Medicare’s too?

editor’s note In 1976 my best friend Kiki Mitchell and I set out on the adventure of a lifetime. Leaving Dannelly Field one early morning in late March, we headed off on a European backpacking tour that took us through 11 countries in just four short months.

In addition to the two pair of jeans, five T-shirts, diary, and dog-earred copy of Let’s Go: Europe I carried around from city to city, I also packed a 35mm SLR camera, two lenses, 35 rolls of film, prepaid mailers (to send the film back home and have it processed and waiting for me on my return) and a super 8mm sound movie camera with another 35 rolls of movie film. The camera equipment alone weighed 15 pounds. On more than one occasion I wondered if the spirit of George Eastman had possessed my body in the days before we left. What had I been thinking? Photo memories were one thing, but the developing one inch groove in my shoulder from the extra camera weight would never make for a picture-perfect moment.

The groove in my shoulder has disappeared in the 34 years since we took that trip, but the snapshots and movies remain to add long-forgotten visual detail to my recollections. More than any souvenir, the photos are memories of not only my trip, but also of the girl who took those pictures. Frozen moments in time, they remind me of how, at 23, I saw the world.

My 35mm and 8mm cameras, lenses, film, and mailers have now all been replaced by a single digital marvel that takes still and moving pictures and slips into a purse or coat pocket. Despite these modern improvements a great picture still rests less with equipment and more with the creative eye of the photographer.

In Don’t Say Cheese! (page 26), this month’s Prime offers advice from local pros to help you take the best snapshots possible during upcoming holiday trips and family get-togethers. Writer Lenore Vickrey asked the David Robertsons (Jr. and Sr.), Josh Moates, Jackie and Luke Lucas, and Heath Stone to offer their suggestions for making better pictures, whether they’re focused on your adorable grandchild in a Halloween costume, candid shots of family friends around the Thanksgiving table, or your loved ones opening Christmas presents.

This issue also reveals some of Montgomery’s eerie history, just in time for Halloween (page18). Writer Jennifer Kornegay spoke with local historian Mary Ann Neeley, storyteller Kathryn Tucker Windham, and entrepreneur Shannon Fontaine about both well-known and obscure pieces of Montgomery’s intriguing past. The stories are all the more compelling because they took place in the Capital City, occurring in locations many of us drive by during any given week.

October’s Prime is chock full of news, tips, and entertainment for 50+’ers throughout the River Region. Enjoy!

Sandra Polizos Editor

Prime

Celebrating Midlife and Beyond

www.facebook.com/primemontgomery

Montgomery

October 2010 Volume I, Issue 7 PUBLISHER Bob Corley, primemontgomery@gmail.com EDITOR Sandra Polizos, primeeditor@gmail.com ART DIRECTOR Callie Corley, primemagdesign@gmail.com WRITERS Tina Calligas, Jennifer Kornegay, Lenore Vickrey CONTRIBUTORS Nancy Dupree, Niko Corley, Mark Glass, Arlene Morris, Joseph P. Borg, Jake Roberts, Patsy Smith, Alan Wallace PHOTOGRAPHERS Heath Stone, Bob Corley SALES Erin Capilouto Sommer 334-233-2621, esommer8849@gmail.com Bob Corley, 334-202-0114, primemontgomery@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 2010

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.

new you can use Packing on the Pounds New data in a recent CDC report indicates Alabama had an overall self-reported adult obesity level of 31 percent in 2009.

In all, nine states had an obesity rate of 30 percent or higher, marking an increase from 2000, when no state ranked at or above the 30 percent level.

The CDC report also stated that people who are obese incur $1,429 more per person in medical costs compared to people of normal weight, and that the nation’s total medical costs from obesity are $147 billion.

“People in all communities should be able to make healthy choices,” Alabama State Health Officer Dr. Donald Williamson said.

“To reverse this epidemic, we need to change our communities into places that strongly support healthy eating and

active living.” (Ala. Dept. of Public Health)

Common Osteoporosis Drugs Associated with a Decreased Breast Cancer Women who take some types of bone-building drugs used to prevent and treat osteoporosis may be at lower risk of breast cancer, according to a study by U.S. researchers published in the British Journal of Cancer.

The study found that women who used bisphosphonate drugs, such as Fosamax, Boniva and Zomita, for more than two years had a nearly 40% reduction in risk as compared to those who did not. The protective effect was observed only among women who were not obese.

Prevalence of Retinopathy High Among Older U.S. Adults with Diabetes Nearly 30 percent of U.S. adults with diabetes over the age of 40 are estimated to have diabetic retinopathy, with about 4 percent of this population having vision-threatening retinopathy, Your Brain on Fruit according to a study in JAMA. Reaching for the fruit Diabetic retinopathy (damage to the bowl might keep your retina caused by complications of diabebrain sharp as a tack tes mellitus) is the leading cause of new when you get older. cases of legal blindness among adults 20 Blueberries, to 74 years of age in the United States. strawberries, acai berries and (Cont’ next MCA_Ad_7.10_Prime_Layout 1 7/23/10 12:52 PMd on Page 1 page)

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The scientists say they've discovered the first solid evidence that these foods essentially cleanse the brain, activating what's known as its "housekeeper" function and ridding it of toxic proteins which cause age-related memory loss and other mental deterioration.

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Low Vitamin D Linked to Metabolic Syndrome in the Elderly A new study conducted at the VU University Medical Center in Amsterdam adds to the mounting evidence that older adults commonly have low vitamin D levels and that vitamin D inadequacy may be a risk factor for the metabolic syndrome, a condition that affects one in four adults.

Because the metabolic syndrome increases the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, an adequate vitamin D level in the body might be important in the prevention of these diseases.

The researchers found a 48% prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the elderly and that nearly 37% of the total sample had the metabolic syndrome, a clustering of high blood pressure, abdominal obesity, abnormal cholesterol profile and high blood sugar.

High Rate of At-Risk Drinking Among Older Adults A new study by researchers at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA has found that more than a third of drinkers 60 years old and older consume amounts of alcohol that are excessive or that are potentially harmful in combination with certain diseases they may have or medications they may be taking. (Journal of General Internal Medicine) Exercise May Affect Depression in Breast Cancer Patients Breast cancer patients who exercise on a regular basis may be less likely to suffer from depression than other patients, according to a new study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. Researchers found that all types of exercise decreased the risk for clinical depression. Those who exercised for two or more hours per week, and those who expended more energy during exercise were 42 percent less likely to report overall depression than women

who did not exercise.

Migraine May Be Linked to Heart Disease People with migraine may be at an increased risk of heart attack and other risk factors for heart disease, according to a study published in Neurology®.

While the overall risk of heart problems in people with migraine is small, these findings are consistent with other studies showing people with migraine are more likely to suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which are risk factors for heart disease.

The study found that people who had migraines were about twice as likely to have a heart attack compared to people without migraines, or 4.1 percent of people with migraine compared to 1.9 percent of those without migraine. The risk was nearly three times greater for people who experienced migraine with aura, or sensations such as seeing flashing lights that come before the migraine headache, compared to people without migraines.

Montgomery Ballet presents

“Carmina burana” october 16th with the Montgomery chorale “sleeping beauty” october 17th for the whole family At the Historic davis theatre...Call 334.409.0522 for tickets

Montgomery Ballet in Gloria, photo by Chris Helton

around montgomery

Gryphons, Hank Williams, and Martin Luther King, Jr.

G

By Jake Roberts

ryphons populate the exterior of this building, and history walks the halls.

The gryphon (or griffin), a legendary creature of exceptional power, was part lion, part eagle.

They were known in mythology for guarding treasure and valued objects. This building’s inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places certainly puts it that category.

The writer has some reservations about identifying the images gracing the exterior as gryphons, since they’re most often described with an eagle head and talons, and a lion body.

This one seems a bit misaligned, appearing to possess lion claws, an eagle head and body, and wings like Pegasus. A dragon perhaps? You call it.

The National Register of Historic Places added this building to its list in 1979, a mere 52 years after if was built.

Beyond its decorative elements, monumental historic events have swirled around this building, and figures of international importance passed through its doors.

Within this structure was Montgomery’s first commercial radio station, WSFA. In its studios were heard early performances by Hank Williams, a man who changed the face of country music and still influences songwriters and singers more than 50 years after his death.

A Sunday morning sermon by Martin Luther King, Jr., and Ralph David Abernathy was broadcast from the radio station in this building.

Find these creatures, and the building they adorn, and send us your photograph. With you in it, of course.

We’ll print it in a future issue of Prime Montgomery.

Anyone up for a gryphon hunt?

september 25 – OctOber 16, 2010 www.asf.net | 800.841.4273

twitter.com/alabamashakes

facebook.com/alabamashakes

moving free with mirabai

To Weigh Or Not To Weigh

T

o weigh or not to weigh, that is the question. Whether ‘tis nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of knowing one’s outrageous weight, or to take arms against the bulge by simply ignoring the scale and trying to eat less and exercise more... For some of us, the scale is a tool. For others it’s the enemy.

Some health and fitness professionals Mirabai Holland have made a compelling case for ignoring the scale, saying that measuring one’s percentage of body fat is the most accurate way to track one’s fitness level, because it indicates a healthy body composition regardless of height and weight. Whether you decide to use the scale or not it’s important to keep track of your percentage of body fat.

Here are some general guidelines according to the American Council of Exercise: Body Fat % Women: Fit 21-24% Average: 25-31% Obese Over 32% Body Fat % Men: Fit 14-17% Average: 18-24% Obese Over 25% So why bother weighing yourself at all?

My personal preference is to weigh yourself at least once or twice a week. I do, and I find that facing my weight on a regular basis helps me stay on track. Believe me, there have been times when I’ve dreaded getting on the scale. But I do it anyway because no matter what it says, I feel relief. I find it liberating.

Why? Because now I know where I am and what I need to

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do next. It helps me maintain a healthy weight. Also the scale I have measures my body fat, too, so I am able to keep track of that at the same time.

In my practice I have helped hundreds of people lose weight. And most of them initially fight me about getting on the scale.

I understand this because I know that terror. Part of the process of losing weight is to prepare one’s self to do it.

If you are not psychologically ready to lose, stepping on the scale can be a real turn off and actually deter you from losing weight. But once you’re ready, facing that number can jumpstart your weight loss program and keep you motivated.

I give my clients a baseline of their body fat percentage and get them to use the scale. Then we set up a diet and exercise plan.You can lose weight by diet alone but a larger percent of your weight loss will be taken more from lean muscle mass than from body fat.

The winning combination is to reduce calorie intake, do cardio every other day and strength training at least a couple of days a week. Cardio burns calories and strength training raises your metabolism and builds lean muscle mass while you are losing. Losing about 1% body fat a month and one to twoand-a-half pounds a week is considered safe and realistic.

So I’ve made my case for using the scale as a tool, and I hope you’ll try it when you are ready.

Regardless, “to be, or not to be” at a healthy weight should not be in question.

Mirabai Holland M.F.A. is one of the leading authorities in the Health & Fitness industry, and a public health activist specializing in preventive and rehabilitative exercise for women. Her Moving Free™ approach to exercise is designed to provide a movement experience so pleasant it doesn't feel like work. Visit her website at www.movingfree.com (c)2010 www.primemontgomery.com | April 2010 9

Feature

The three-deck sternwheeler Branson Belle cruises the waters of Table Rock Lake.

T What Happens in Branson, STAYS in Branson Story and photos by Tina Calligas

ravel is cited as one of the top retirement goals by those middle aged and beyond. They typically look for places with diverse attractions in scenic, easy-to-get-to locations. The most popular areas provide outdoor activities, shopping, great restaurants, spas, and a wide variety of entertainment opportunities. Many cities claim to offer something for everyone, but few can back that claim like Branson, Missouri.

At first glance, Branson looks like any other small town in the scenic Ozark Mountains.

The downtown area features a main street lined with quaint shops like Dick’s Oldtime 5 & 10 and the House of 1000 Clocks. But take a closer look and you will find one of the hottest family vacation destinations in the country. Billed as “The Live Music Capital of The World” with its 100+ shows in 50 theaters, the city also boasts museums, an amusement park, eight championship golf courses, three pristine lakes, shopping, and nature trails.

In The Beginning...

Although many believe Branson’s popularity began with country music, it actually started with a cave. In 1894 Marvel Cavern, just outside of the city, was purchased by William Henry Lynch.

This geographic wonder became such a popular destination that in 1960, Silver Dollar City became a reality. This pioneer village theme park, which sits over and around the cave, is a delightful step back into another era. The park includes 60 shops which showcase the talents of master glassblowers, basket weavers, potters, blacksmiths, and many other craftsmen. For the young at heart there are over 30 thrill rides, live musical performances, and production shows.

Variety Well known for its musical performances that range from

Chun Yi links acrobatics and martial arts in a breath-taking display of physicality.

Branson has small-town charm and big-city shopping opportunities.

In Branson, you’re never far from music, comedy, magic, and just plain fun.

pop to rock-and-roll, Broadway to country, and gospel to bluegrass, Branson has also become home to world-class comedy, theatre, magic, acrobatics, and religious-themed entertainment.

Many of the theaters offer several shows a day, so in one day you can be thoroughly entertained by the seemingly ageless Paul Revere and the Raiders, the glamour of the musically talented Shoji Tabuchi, and the side-splitting humor of Yakov Smirnoff.

For old-fashioned fun take a dinner cruise on the Showboat Branson Belle on beautiful Table Rock Lake. Following a three-course dinner, cruisers are treated to fast-paced entertainment featuring singing, dancing, and the comedy of Todd Oliver and His Talking Pets. Or visit the Sight and Sound Theatre for Noah, The Musical. This spectacular production retells the Old Testament story and includes a 300-foot wrap around stage, elaborate costumes, and live and animatronic animals.

Branson’s newest production has an international flair. Chun Yi: The Legend of Kung Fu combines the ancient martial arts with the agility of Cirquestyle acrobatics to produce a dazzling spectacle that has previously wowed audiences around the world, as well as entertaining spectators at the Beijing Olympics.

Shop ‘til You Drop Throughout the Branson area, visitors can find outlet malls, unique galleries focused on arts and crafts, boutique and specialty stores, flea markets and antique shops. Anchored by Bass Pro Shop, the Lake Taneycomo waterfront in the historic downtown area features Branson’s Landing, which offers a shopper’s paradise, restaurants to suit every palate, and a spectacular $7.5 million water fountain extravaganza that synchronizes light, sound, music and fire.

And There’s More The average visitor to Branson may overlook the area’s unique museums. Within a few mile radius, visitors can wonder at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, honor those who served at the Veteran’s Memorial Museum, greet life-like celebrity figures at the Hollywood Wax Museum, and recall childhood memories at the World’s Largest Antique Toy Museum. Perhaps the most interesting and entertaining is the Titanic Museum. This interactive experience, housed in a replica of the front of the ill-fated ship, allows visitors to become passengers on that tragic voyage. Be sure to greet King Charles Spaniels, Molly and Carter, that have been added to the museum as mascots to represent the dogs that were onboard the ship when it sank.

The area is also an outdoorsman’s paradise. Just outside the city you can hike, rock climb, kayak, canoe, fish, bike, horseback ride, waterski, play golf

A Titanic Museum, housed in a replica of the bow of the tragic ship, is one of several museums in Branson.

or tennis, or go parasailing.

Let’s Eat Branson dining options include a wide range of American, Italian, Mexican, Thai, Japanese, Chinese, and Mediterranean cuisine. For a truly memorable casual fine dining experience, Bleu Olive Mediterranean Grille & Bar is a jewel. This spacious contemporary restaurant features a deliciously diverse menu that includes such delights as Baby Octopus Tempura, Chicken “Cordon Bleu Olive”, Prince Edward Island Mussels, slow braised Australian Lamb Shank, and Spanish Paella. For those craving a bit of American fare, you can’t beat Famous Dave’s BBQ Restaurant in Branson’s Landing. Be sure to ask for a table on the patio with views of Lake Taneycomo.

Where to Stay There’s no shortage of area accommodations that will appeal to all tastes and pocketbooks.

Chief among these is the Branson Hilton Convention Hotel, conveniently located downtown and across from Branson’s Landing. The hotel offers a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and a 24-hour business center. Their Level 2 Steakhouse offers 28-day aged beef brought in from Kansas

12

October 2010 | www.primemontgomery.com

City. For those looking for a more natural setting, the award-winning Chateau on the Lake is a popular resorts among tourists. Located on Table Rock Lake, it has its own marina, spa, an award-winning restaurant, tennis courts, nature trails, pool, movie theater, and child daycare.

How to Get There Because it’s conveniently located within 750 miles of nearly 50% of the population of the lower 48 states, Branson is ranked as one of the top auto destinations in the country. But beginning in 2009, the area opened its doors to travelers from around the globe with the opening of the nation’s first privately built commercial airport. The Branson Regional Airport brings budget fares and nonstop service from many major cities.

Without a doubt Branson has something for everyone. The difficulty is deciding what to do first.

For more information about Branson, visit www.explorebranson.com.

Tina Calligas is the editor of The Best of Times, a Shreveport, LA. magazine aimed at helping 50+ readers live healthy, happy, and productive lives.

in every life

R

Be www.Web Wise

eading The Age of Connectivity in last month’s Prime made me think about the volume of information available on the Internet. The following considerations and questions may help you determine the value and credibility of the materials you find while surfing the “world wide web:” 1) What information are you seeking? If you are seeking inforArlene Morris mation regarding health promotion, disease prevention or treatment, look for information provided by reliable agencies or credentialed providers. Health care provider agency websites provide lists of services, maps, directions, credentials of healthcare providers, and possibly some articles related to information commonly requested by their clients.

2) Who would be best qualified to provide information you desire? Anyone can purchase a website to display information that may or may not be credible.

Be very cautious if the site links to items or services that would lead to monetary gain of the author – the information may be biased/ slanted to promote sales of the product! Can you identify both the author of the information and any sponsor? Is the sponsor a credible agency?

Is the information similar to information you can retrieve from other qualified sources? Agencies sponsored by the government will end in .gov. Examples include information from the National Institutes of Health (www.nih.gov), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc. gov), or the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (http://www.ahrq.gov/ ). Agencies sponsored by a university will end in .edu. Organizations, such as the American Diabetic Association (www.diabetes.org), usually end in

.org.Various other sites will end in .com. Additionally, research-based articles may be available through search engines such as google or google scholar.

3) Is support provided for the information presented? What type of research or other sources support the information? The usefulness of a single case or one person’s expert opinion may be more limited than results of studies with a large number of participants.

However, the type of study and methods used must be carefully considered, and if the characteristics of participants in the study are similar to the characteristics in which you are interested. Findings from studies involving only middle aged men as participants may or may not apply to women, teens, or older adults.

4) What is your opinion of the webpage and the links to which you can connect? Appearance and straightforwardness of the information and links may be your first indication of the quality of the content.

5) How long ago was this information posted? Healthcare information changes rapidly due to study results being continuously published.

Dates may be at the beginning or end of a website, or may be integrated within.

Be cautious with information older than about three years, and always discuss information you find with your healthcare provider, rather than relying on it as a basis for any healthcare decisions.

As more information is available to the public, and as you become more informed regarding your own health care, you can become more involved in decisions regarding your health and what would be most beneficial for you.

“Appearance and straightforwardness of the information and links may be your first indication of the quality of the content.”

monogramming gifts accessories jewelry invitations monogramming gifts accessories jewelry invitations

Arlene H. Morris, RN, Ed.D. is a Distinguished Teaching Associate Professor in the Auburn Montgomery School of Nursing, where she enjoys teaching content regarding gerontology and professional nursing issues.

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A GRACIOUS PLENTY

A Slice of Heaven Photos by Margaret Ann McGregor

O

ctober makes me think of caramel, and this month I’m sharing one of the best caramel cakes I have ever eaten! I received the recipe from one of my heroes, Mr. Pete Edwards of Selma. His wife Dot made these by the dozens at Christmas, and Mr. Pete says people used to drive in from miles around to pick them up for their families.

When Miss Dot was no longer able to Patsy Smith bake, Mr. Pete continued to make this cake for his own family. The father of one of my best friends, he is 90 years old.

One day, some time ago, Mr. Pete and I had a good, long visit. His wife’s failing health was taking a toll on him, but he didn’t complain. Instead he just told me of meeting the love of his life and marrying her. Though I didn’t know Miss Dot until she was already infirmed, I watched this gentle giant care for her in the most loving way possible.

Mr. Pete was part of the Greatest Generation. A World War II veteran who fought in five major battles – including the Battle of the Bulge – he served in the infantry under Patton.

As a civilian Mr. Pete has owned his own business, served on the Selma City Council, and raised two sons and two daughters together with Dot. His son Jim Edwards and daughter Iris

Brown live in Montgomery, as do several of his grandchildren.

Thank you, Mr. Pete, for continuing to serve as an example of a life well-lived, and thank you for sharing this marvelous confection for my cookbook.

Patsy Smith, a Montgomery native, is the author of two cookbooks: A Cookbook for My Southern Daughter and A Southern Daughter Entertains. These books may be purchased at Capitol Book and News, Rosemont Gardens, Southern Homes and Gardens, Jo’s Hallmark, Richardson’s Pharmacy, and other fine book and gift stores, or through her website at southerndaughtercookbooks.com

Dorothy Edwards’ Caramel C ake

1 Duncan Hine s Yellow Cake Mix 4 oz. Jell-0 Vanill a Instant Puddin g 1 pkg. Dream W hip

Heat oven to 3 50º.

Mix cake accord ing to direction s on the box. Stir in the pudding m ix and Dream Whip.

Grease and flo ur two 8-or-9” cake pans. Pour bat ter into pans.

B ake as directed on bo x. Cool pans o n wire racks. Frost w ith Caramel Icin g.

14

October 2010 | www.primemontgomery.com

’

Dorothy Edwards ng Caramel Ici

ning in skillet 1/4 c. sugar for brow n milk 1 large can Carnatio 4 c. more sugar argarine 1 stick butter or m 1 t. vanilla

own the 1/4 c.

In an iron skillet , br rk (Mr. Pete says sugar until very da “almost black”). together milk, the In a saucepan, mix er. Bring to a boil.

4 c. sugar, and butt r and continue to Add browned suga ntly, until drops boil, stirring consta hen dropped in form a soft ball w cold water. , add vanilla, and Remove from heat beat until cool.

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Be Wary of Financial ScamS

By Joseph P. Borg, Director, Alabama Securities Commission

T

o Alabamians, aged 50 and older, the impact of the continuing economic crisis can be measured in how drastically their retirement assets—their “nest eggs”—have been diminished. Many have discovered that their life savings have lost so much value that they can no longer assume a comfortable, well-funded retirement and question exactly how much money will be enough to

“Financial crimes often involve seniors who drop their guard and become too trusting, don’t have someone to counsel them, and who fail to ask tough probing questions before turning over their hard-earned money.”

fund their retirement needs without outliving their assets.These concerns can make our state’s retirees prime targets for financial fraud and investment scams.The Alabama Securities Commission (ASC) regulates the securities industry in Alabama for main street investors, and one of its top priorities is providing free financial and fraud prevention education to Alabama seniors to help them make informed investment decisions and protect themselves from financial fraud.

The financial crisis has caused many seniors to dip into their retirement savings just to make ends meet.They may feel compelled to explore speculative investment ‘opportunities’ to make up for the shortfalls in their retirement plans.

Doing so without the benefit of the right knowledge about these so-called can’t-miss opportunities, and who promotes them, could compromise retirees’ long-term financial stability.

The admonition, ‘if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,’ is truer today than ever before.There’s danger any time investments are offered based on promises or guarantees of unrealistically large returns over a short time with little or no effort on the investor’s part.

Financial crimes often involve seniors who drop their guard and become too trusting, don’t have someone to counsel them, and who fail to ask the tough, probing questions before turning over their hard-earned money. Perhaps the most important question our seniors should ask is how suitable a potential opportunity will be in helping to meet their long-term financial needs. Suitable investments address specific circumstances based on a person’s accumulated assets, income stream, investment goals, financial liabilities and tolerance for risk. If a senior investor can’t clearly determine how a particular investment can strengthen their retirement plan, they shouldn’t buy it!

ASC recommends caution when dealing with people using “senior specialist” designations which may be a misleading label that does not correctly represent the qualifications of a salesperson or financial professional. Citizens should check with ASC to inquire about a financial professional’s background and to determine whether they are registered with the ASC to conduct securities business within, into or from Alabama and to check if the financial product being offered is licensed, as required by law.The best time to call ASC is before you invest your money!

If you have questions, concerns or complaints about financial products, contact the Alabama Securities Commission at www.asc.alabama.gov, or call toll-free 1-800-222-1253.

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Marci’s Medicare Answers October 2010 Dear Marci, I am going to turn 65 in a month, and have drug coverage through my employer’s plan. Should I enroll in Part D?

— Kurt Dear Kurt, It depends. If you have drug coverage from a current or former employer or union, you should consider the quality of your employer coverage and whether or not it will work with the Medicare drug benefit (it often will not).

If you have coverage that is as good as or better than Medicare’s drug benefit (“creditable”) and you like it, you can keep it.You will not pay a penalty to join a Medicare private drug plan later as long as you have not been without your creditable coverage for more than 63 days.

Find out from your employer whether your coverage is as good as Medicare’s drug benefit.You should get a notice from your employer every year letting you know how your employer benefits are changing, whether or not your drug

coverage is creditable, and if enrolling in a Part D plan would affect your current coverage (for both you and your family members who receive that coverage). If you want to keep your employer benefits, and are considering joining a Medicare drug plan, make sure you ask your employer if you can have both types of coverage.

Many employer plans do not work with the drug benefit.

You could lose all your employer benefits (both health and drug) if you join a Medicare private drug plan.

Marci’s Medicare Answers is a service of the Medicare Rights Center (www.medicarerights.org), the nation’s largest independent source of information and assistance for people with Medicare. To speak with a counselor, call (800) 333-4114. To subscribe to “Dear Marci,” the Medicare Rights Center’s free educational e-newsletter, simply e-mail dearmarci@medicarerights.org.

To learn more about the services that Medicare will cover and how to change plans, log on to Medicare Interactive Counselor at the Medicare Rights Center’s website at www.medicareinteractive.org.

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Montgomery'sHair FEATURE

By Jennifer Kornegay

M

ontgomery is home to many stories — tales of vision and accomplishment and chronicles of courage. But the Capital City also has its fair share of ghost stories; our rich heritage is a productive breeding ground for yarns spun of supernatural substance.

According to beloved Alabama storyteller Kathryn Tucker Windham, even the staunchest cynic can enjoy getting caught up in a spooky saga. “You don’t have to believe in ghosts to love a good ghost story,” she said. She should know.Windham collected some of our state’s most famous ghost stories in her book, “13 Alabama Ghosts and Jeffrey,” which includes the Capital City’s celebrity haunt, Huntingdon College’s Red Lady.

Late in the evening, if you’re lucky (or unlucky, depending on how you feel about ghosts), you might catch a glimpse of a young woman, dressed head to toe in deep scarlet, roaming the halls and even peering out a window on the fourth floor of Pratt Hall at Huntingdon College. The arresting apparition is said to be the spirit of a former student, a girl name Martha, who met her tragic end in Pratt Hall.

Martha came to Huntingdon from New York at her father’s insistence, and she never really fit in.

She was shy, which was mistaken for snobbery, and she had an odd obsession with the color red that she refused to explain to her curious classmates. (Her entire dorm room was outfitted in the hue.)

After months of deteriorating into a depression, Martha was discovered in her red dress, in her red room, lying in a pool of her own red blood after slashing her wrists.To this day, students and visitors say they see flashes of red light flooding out of the transom in Martha’s old room, and there have also been sightings of the Martha’s ghost, dressed in red, aimlessly wandering the halls each year on the night of her death.

Windham has visited every site she wrote about in her book, including Pratt Hall, but she’s still never seen a specter herself. “I have given them every opportunity to make themselves known to me, and I think I deserve to see a ghost after all I’ve done to promote them!” she said. “I have felt a presence though.”

She first got interested in otherworldly things when a seemingly benign presence, whom she named Jeffrey, took up residence in her house in Selma. A friend captured Jeffrey in a photo by chance, and Windham decided she wanted to learn more about other Alabama ghosts.

“When whatever Jeffrey is came to our house, I realized it was a pity that no one had collected all the Alabama ghost stories – and we have many – into a book,” she said. “I decided to remedy that.”

In working on the book, Windham became aware of how rapidly our stories, ghostly and otherwise, are disappearing.

“We don’t tell stories anymore,” she said. “We watch TV and let strangers tell us stories. Hundreds of great ghost stories have been lost. It’s become a mission for me to seek out these stories and save them.”

Mary Ann Neeley is a protector of stories in peril too.The Montgomery historian has unearthed and preserved enough events and elements of the city’s past to fill volumes. And she knows more than probably any living person about old Oakwood Cemetery and the many Capital City citizens interred there. She routinely gives cemetery tours and retold a story she often shares with her tour participants.

“There is a large mausoleum in the cemetery where two brothers are buried together,” she said.

“They were successful merchants and both bachelors. One died in 1889 and one in 1890. For some time, there has been a spider that likes to weave his web around the locks at the mausoleum’s entrance. I like to think that if the spider is there, watching the entrance, the brothers are resting peacefully. But if he’s not, maybe they’re out on the town.”

Despite a large cemetery filled with centuries of history, this is the only mention of anything

18

October 2010 | www.primemontgomery.com

-

-Raising History

Shannon Fontaine, Haunted Hearse Tours.

www.primemontgomery.com | October 2010

19

Pratt Hall, Huntingdon College, is reportedly occupied by not just the living.

ghostly you’ll get on Neeley’s tour. She’s not aware of any scary stories associated with the area. Still… “I’ve never seen anything during the day,” she said. “But I’ve never been there at night, so who knows?”

Shannon Fontaine believes there are some untold ghost stories in Montgomery. He’s started Haunted Hearse Tours in the city, Mary Ann Neeley’s tours of Oakwood Cemetery include a story of this which in October began taking folks around in an actual hearse in mausoleum and its resident spider. search of a good scare. The retired police detective spent hours time, he died. The story says the ghost of Henry, in the form of at the Alabama Department of Archives and History researching the child that Dr. Hill saved, came back to Montgomery looking for his tour and uncovered some darker parts of Montgomery’s for help again.The building is still standing downtown, and current employees there report hearing things being moved, and all have past. One of his favorites happened in the capitol building.

“On Halloween night, in 1912, there was a murder in the state an uneasy feeling any time they venture upstairs, where the doccapitol building,” he said. “Today, some people say that the faucets tor’s offices were located. Fontaine believes the stories but thinks in the bathroom across the hall from the governor’s office some- it’s all in good fun too.

“I love old scary stories and movies,” he said. “I like to give times turn off and on by themselves as if the murderer is still trying to wash the blood off his hands.” Some who work in the capi- myself goose bumps.”

Most of us do. But why? Windham offered her opinion. tol claim the widow of a Confederate soldier haunts the building, “We are fascinated by things we cannot explain, “ she said. too. These two tidbits earned the capitol building a spot on the “There are so few things Haunted Hearse tour. left in this world that don’t Hank Williams’ grave, Wanna Go? have a scientific explanawhich is in Oakwood Cemn If you want to explore Oakwood Cemetery with Mary Ann tion. Haunts stretch our etery Annex, is also on the Neeley, she’ll be leading a tour on October 31. Call Old Alabama imagination and make us tour. Country music star Town at 240-4500 for more information and times. wonder, and we need to Alan Jackson sang about n Haunted Hearse Tours: To take a ride in a hearse you’ll actually have things making us wonold Hank’s ghost showing remember, let Shannon Fontaine and his Haunted Hearse Tour give der.” himself to devoted fans you a few thrills and chills this month. The appropriately creepy big, If you are one of the in the song “Midnight in black car takes up to six people at a time on an hour-long tour of many who find fun in the Montgomery.” sites that are said to be haunted and/or are attached to a murderfrightening, you should be “Is that story real?” Fonous mystery. It’s $10 per person, cash, and tours leave on the hour thankful you live in the taine said.“I’m not sure, but from the entrance to the Alley Way downtown starting around 7 South. Even with some bewe’ll be checking it out.” p.m. and running through midnight. Those who put real stock in ing lost to time, our region Strange sounds and an the existence of ghosts believe many come to be as the result of has a multitude of riveting eerie presence at the old a violent death. If that’s the case, then Fontaine has found a spot ghost stories. Neeley thinks office of a Montgomery that’s almost sure to be haunted. It’s the site of the “feather duster she knows the reason. doctor are credited to one murder,” a brutal attack that occurred in Montgomery in 1943.

“The idea of haunted of his unfortunate patients.

For more information, visit www.hauntedhearsemgm.com. places adds to the mysIn the early 20th century, tique that we in the South Dr. Leonidas Hill treated a already love about our hisyoung man named Henry who had been stabbed in the heart. With a surgery that was toric sites,” she said. “It’s the old houses, the old buildings that nothing short of miraculous, he saved Henry’s life. Henry grew celebrate our history and at the same time, our Southern-ness. up, moved to Detroit, got into a fight, and was stabbed again.This Have you ever heard of a ghost in a strip mall?”

MONEYWISE

Is It Time to Convert a Traditional IRA to a Roth?

T

o maximize your available retirement resources, you need to minimize your tax bite. Converting all or part of a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA before the end of the year may help you do that.

A conversion is like taking money from your IRA, paying tax on it, and then putting it into a Roth IRA. Even if the owner is under age 59½, no Alan Wallace early withdrawal penalty applies on a conversion. Earnings inside a Roth IRA are tax-free and later withdrawals will not be taxable in most cases. While advisors generally recommend postponing taxes instead of paying them sooner, this is a case where paying now may be better than paying later.

Whether a conversion is in your best interest depends mainly on income tax considerations. As a starting point, there are three particular reasons to consider converting this year: 1. For the first time since Roth IRAs were introduced, anyone can convert an IRA, regardless of their personal income.

2. Taxpayers converting in 2010 can choose to recognize the income from the conversion in 2010 or to report half in 2010 and half in 2011. This is a one-time opportunity.

3. Unless Congress extends the “Bush tax cuts,” income tax rates will rise next year. There is also a widely-held expectation that Congress will hike tax rates further to help pay for federal spending. This may be the last year to convert before tax rates go up.

Unfortunately, the benefits of converting depend on additional considerations. Here are some of the more important ones: How soon might you need to take money out of the Roth? If you take money out before the end of 2014, some of the withdrawal might be taxable because money is

supposed to stay in a Roth at least five years before you take it out. However, if you (or your spouse) already have a Roth IRA, the clock started running when that account was opened, so the five years would end sooner.

Will your tax bracket be lower once you retire?

If so, you may be better off sticking with the regular IRA instead of paying tax at a higher rate now on a conversion.

How would you pay the tax on a conversion? If you have savings that you can use to pay the tax, a conversion makes better sense than it would if you had to use money from the IRA to pay the tax. This is especially true if you are younger than 59½ since money taken from the IRA and not converted to the Roth will be subject to a 10% penalty tax for early withdrawal.

How much will you rely on withdrawals from the IRA when you retire? At age 70½ you have to take annual distributions of a certain amount from a regular IRA, but not from a Roth.

If you would not need the money to live on, having the money in a Roth means that you would not be forced to pay tax every year on a withdrawal that you do not need.

If you think that a conversion makes sense but are not absolutely sure, you could convert part of your IRA instead of all of it. Sometimes the best course of action when you cannot decide between two options is to pick some of each.

On a final note, if you did a Roth conversion earlier in the year and the value of your account has declined sharply as a result of the market, you might want to do a re-characterization.

This is basically like hitting the “undo” button on the computer. It takes the current Roth assets and puts them back into a traditional IRA so that you have no taxable income to report on a conversion this year.You can then convert at a later date and possibly pay less tax on the conversion since the value of the account has declined.

As with all complex financial decisions, you should consult with a qualified advisor or make sure that you understand all the relevant factors about Roth conversions or re-characterizations before taking action.

Alan Wallace,CFA, ChFC, CLU is a Senior Financial Advisor for Ronald Blue & Co.’s Montgomery, Alabama office, 334-270-5960, alan. wallace@ronblue.com.

discovering your past

This Land is Your Land “The idea of having a piece of land to call their own led many to take that incredible leap of faith. Would we be so brave?”

C

an you imagine loading all your worldly possessions onto a wagon and leaving family and friends to travel to some distant location, all for the promise of fertile and inexpensive land? Many of our ancestors did just that.

The idea of having a piece of land to call their own led many to take that incredible leap of faith. Would we be so Nancy Dupree brave? Land, an important commodity and the means to support one’s family with food and shelter, also provided a sense of security for the family’s future. Many thought it worth the risks.

In Alabama, even prior to statehood in 1819, all available land was sold by the federal government at land offices in the form of land patents. Some land patents were granted as a reward for military service as Military Bounty Warrants. Land sales not only provided revenue for the federal government but also encouraged settlement of the territory, and, later, the new state.

These records, which describe the location of the land purchased, are available from the National Archives – www. archives.gov – or at the Bureau of Land Management – www. glorecords.blm.gov – which has a searchable database of most

of the original patents. The transactions were also recorded in county tract books, which are available on the Alabama Secretary of State’s web site – www.sos.alabama.gov. After the initial purchase from the government, subsequent land transactions were conducted at the county courthouse.

When searching for land transactions at the local level, researchers need to look at several possible sources. Land transfers may be recorded in deed records, estate records, wills, or other probate records. The Alabama Department of Archives and History has deed records for most counties and probate records for all counties. A list of those records is found in the Local Government/County Records on Microfilm database – www.archives.alabama.gov. The county probate office is another source for the records, the addresses for which are found on the ADAH website.

Land patents, deeds, and other instruments of transfer provide the legal description of the land – township, range, and section. With that information, and using a county highway map, the location can be plotted. What a thrill to discover the exact spot on which your ancestors may have put plow to earth, raised a roof over the family’s head, and birthed another generation of family members to research!

Nancy Dupree is Senior Archivist at the Alabama Department of Archives and History.

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feature

s p i T Top r Aging Well fo

S

imply living longer isn’t enough. What we really want is to live longer well, staying healthy enough to continue doing the things we love.

While having good genes certainly helps, a growing body of research suggests that how well you age depends largely on you and what you do. Fortunately, research also finds that it’s never too late to make changes that can help you live a longer and healthier life.

Here, from the American Geriatrics Society’s

Foundation for Health in Aging, are some top tips for living longer and better: Eat a rainbow You need fewer calories when you get older, so choose nutrient-rich foods like brightly colored fruits and vegetables. Eat a range of colors — the more varied, the wider the range of nutrients you’re likely to get. Shoot for two servings a week of salmon, sardines, brook trout or other fish rich in heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Limit red meat and wholefat dairy products, and choose whole grains over the refined stuff.

Toast with a smaller glass Drinking a moderate amount of alcohol may lower your risks of heart disease and some other illnesses. But what’s “moderate” changes with age. It means just one drink per day for older men and 1⁄2 a drink daily for older women. (A “drink” is 1 oz of hard liquor, 6 oz of wine, or 12 oz of beer.) Since alcohol can interact with certain drugs, ask your healthcare professional whether any alcohol is safe for you.

Know the low-down on sleep in later life Contrary to popular belief, older people don’t need less sleep than younger adults.

Most need at least 7 or 8 hours of shut-eye a night. If you’re getting that much and are still sleepy during the day, see your healthcare professional.You may have a sleep disorder called sleep apnea. People with sleep apnea stop

www.primemontgomery.com | October 2010

23

breathing briefly, but repeatedly, while sleeping. Among other things, untreated sleep apnea can increase your risk of developing heart disease.

Sidestep falls Walking as little as 30 minutes, three times a week can help you stay physically fit and mentally sharp, strengthen your bones, lift your spirits — and lower your risk of falls.

That’s important because falls are a leading cause of fractures, other serious injuries, and death among older adults.

Bicycling, dancing, and jogging are also good weight-bearing exercises that can help strengthen your bones.

In addition to exercising, get plenty of bone-healthy calcium and vitamin D daily.

Flatten your (virtual) opponent, sharpen your mind Conquering your adversary in a complex computer game, joining a discussion club, learning a new language, and engaging in social give-and-take with other people can all help keep your brain sharp, studies suggest.

Get a medications check When you visit your healthcare professional, bring either all of the prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, herbs and supplements you take, or a complete list that notes the names of each, the doses you take, and how often you take them.

Ask your healthcare provider to review everything you brought or put on your list. He or she should make sure they’re safe for you to take, and that they don’t interact in harmful ways.

The older you are, and the more medicines you take, the more likely you are to experience medication side effects, even from drugs bought over-the-counter.

Speak up when you feel down or anxious Roughly one in five older adults suffers from depression or anxiety.

Lingering sadness, tiredness, loss of appetite or pleasure 24

October 2010 | www.primemontgomery.com

from things you once enjoyed, difficultly sleeping, worry, irritability, and wanting to be alone much of the time can all be signs that you need help. Tell your healthcare professional right away. There are many good treatments for these problems.

Get your shots They’re not just for kids!

Must-have vaccines for seniors include those that protect against pneumonia, tetanus/diphtheria, shingles, and the flu, which kills thousands of older adults in the U.S. every year.

Find the right healthcare professional and make the most of your visits See your healthcare professional regularly, answer his or her questions frankly, ask any questions you have, and follow his or her advice.

If you have multiple, chronic health problems, your best bet may be to see a geriatrician – a physician with advanced training that prepares them to care for the most complex patients.

The AGS’ Foundation for Health in Aging can help you find one; visit www.healthinaging.org.

Reprinted with permission from the American Geriatrics Society Foundation for Health in Aging (http://www.healthinaging.org/). For more information visit the AGS online at www.americangeriatrics. org.

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The Gentleman’s Bird Returns

off the beaten path

I

t wasn’t all that long ago that many homes had a kennel or the opportunity to hunt quail in good dog run out back for the family bird dog, in those days, usual- numbers. Being that many of the birds on ly a breed of pointer or spaniel. Back then, birds, or “buhds,” these plantations and lodges are penwere quail, the gentleman’s bird, and “goin’ buhd huntin’” meant raised and then released into the wild, the Niko Corley chasing coveys of Bobwhites through fields, pine stands and hunting seasons for them are more liberal along fencerows waiting for one of the dogs to go on point. than for wild birds, stretching from October 1 through March Times have changed, and people too. Wild quail numbers have 31. declined due largely to deterioration of suitable habitat, changes More and more landowners have begun managing their land in farming practices and an increase in predator numbers that to better sustain quail populations and release pen-raised quail coincide with a onto their decrease in predaproperty to tor management. provide friends The appearance and family a of fire ants too, unique hunting some experts say, opportuplayed a part in the nity outside of overall decline of more popular these wild grounddeer and turnesting birds. As key seasons. quail numbers Many of these declined so too landowners did the need for don’t want bird dogs. Family to invest in a quail hunts slipped pack of pointinto memory like ers for hunting a busted covey they will take slips over a distant part in only hilltop, out of occasionally. range and into the Good news sunset. here as well, Wild quail still because the exist in Alabama popular LabraWind in her face, Bella cautiously leads a hunter toward a suspected quail holding area. today but not in near dor Retriever can the numbers they did 40 or 50 years be trained to be an excellent quailFor information on the ago. Despite a decline in the wild flushing dog (Bella is!).

Alabama Quail Trail, visit population, an Alabama “buhd hunt” of Years ago when wild quail existed www.alabamaquailtrail.com/index.html. old is not as out of reach as you might and were hunted in greater numbers think; no time machine or Southern in Alabama, the hunt was a social For information on Alabama drawl required. event for all. Given our state’s rich hunting licenses and game regulations, visit Within a short drive of Montgomquail hunting history, whether it’s at www.outdooralabama.com. ery, numerous established sportsman’s one of the numerous quail lodges or lodges and plantations specializing plantations in the area or even on priin quail hunting exist where the gentleman’s bird can still be vate land, the wily gentleman’s bird is worth chasing and cooks hunted. To meet an increasing demand for places to hunt birds up deliciously. After the first covey flushes, the smoke clears and work bird dogs, more and more of these lodges have and the feathers settle, you’ll be wondering why you hadn’t opened, offering hunters a step back in history to a time when done this sooner. a covey or two of quail on the farm wasn’t so unusual.

Many of these lodges are part of the Alabama Quail Trail, Niko Corley is an avid sportsman, spending his free time hunting, similar to the state’s much better-known golf trail but tailorfishing and enjoying other outdoor activities. In this column, he will made for bird hunters. Able to accommodate large parties or a cover a range of outdoor recreation activities in central Alabama and single hunter with his own dogs, these lodges offer sportsmen beyond.

feature

Local photographers share shooting tips and tibbits. (L-R) Luke Lucas, Jackie Lucas, David Robertson, Sr., Heath Stone, David Robertson, Jr. Not pictured, Josh Moates. (Studio set-up courtesy Photography by the Robertsons.)

Don’t Say Cheese !

B

By Lenore Vickrey

etween Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, all within the next three months, the opportunities for taking some memorable family photographs – or some pretty mediocre ones -- abound. What’s the difference between a good photo and a great one? Prime Montgomery talked to a few of the talented photographers in our area to get tips on how to make the most of your photographs, especially at holiday times and while on vacation.

Halloween For Halloween pictures, Josh Moates of Kim Box Photography suggests taking the obligatory photo of children in their costumes (head to toe), but then try a few different angles. “Follow them up to the house and snap some candid shots, from down low and maybe off to the side,” he said. “Snap some of them walking away when they don’t know you’re watching them.

“Snap some when you get home and they have the candy scattered all over the floor. Snap the costumes before they put them on and when they’re getting dressed. It’s always funny to see kids fumbling with their new mask!”

The secret to taking the best photos of children, not just at Halloween, is to “get down on their level,” says David Robertson, Jr., of Photography by the Robertson’s. Don’t be afraid of kneeling down, or just getting on the floor to get at a child’s eye level.

“When you’re with your family, you know what your family’s been talking about.

Talk about something that happened earlier that was funny. Try to mess with them.”

— Jackie Lucas, Little Acorn Photography

What’s even better is while you’re taking the photo, mouth into a fake grin. A better approach: “Inject a little ask an “assistant” (maybe an older child) to get younger humor so their defenses drop,” says Luke. “When you’re children to laugh, says Robertson. “I get my secretary with your family, you know what your family’s been talkto blow bubbles,” adds David Robertson, Sr. Generally, ing about. Talk about something that happened earlier children are good for only about three shots in three that was funny. Try to mess with them.” seconds.

For children, it’s easy to get little boys to laugh if you Thanksgiving, Christmas and other times use “gross-out” humor. “Daddy has stinky feet,” is usufor family gatherings ally a winner, according to Jackie. And most folks will “A combination of posed and candid shots is the way laugh if you say something about the person next to to go,” says Jackie Lucas of Little Acorn Photography. them.

You’ll want to take the posed family group photo, but Josh Moates tries to get his subjects to relax through you’ll also laughter as want to well. “I see capture my aunt folks just and uncle being standing themselves. there and That could I walk up be cousins and say, playing in “Hey, you the yard, guys. Get grandma close, real cooking, or close, act your uncle like you dozing in love each the recliner other just after a big for this picdinner. ture.” They If you’re get kind usually of close, the family then I say Capture folks being themselves. (Photo courtesy Jackie and Luke Lucas, Little Acorn Photography) member with something like, the camera, be prepared for any shot, any time.

“Honeymoon close!” They perk up, and then I say, “Aunt “Just say, ‘Ignore me. I’m not here. Then it’s a matter of Diane, grab George’s butt!” They start to laugh and this coming back and getting your shots,” says Jackie. “With whole time, I’m snapping away, so I get the big laughs children, you can let them do whatever they want.You and the real smiles!” can talk to them about school, things they like to do.”

How best to get the whole family together Then you can frame up the shot while you pull away for a shot? from the camera and keep talking to your subject.

Get off the couch, says Jackie. “It’s not a flattering Her husband Luke, who also shoots for the family position because the hips go down and the knees go up. business, agrees the key to taking great candids is to do It looks completely ridiculous.” A better way: move the it when people don’t realize you’re there. “Otherwise, dining room chairs out and seat people in them. Use they stiffen up,” he says. “The minute you tell a child to stools if available. Try to create an oval shape, which is smile, they usually don’t.” pleasing to the eye. Tall people don’t have to necessarFor group shots, don’t ask everyone to look at the ily be in the back, but put people in a variety of poses, camera and say “cheese!” Saying the word forces the including sitting, kneeling and standing.

“Use flattering angles,” she suggests, such as having people turn at a 45-degree angle rather than facing directly at the camera. “It’s the difference between a portrait and a mug shot.”

If you’re shooting outside, try to get that family shot at the “golden hour of the day,” suggests David Robertson, Jr. That’s 30 minutes before the sun sets, when the fading sunlight bathes everything in a warm glow.

Heath Stone of Stone Images Photography in Montgomery says holidays are a great time to get your family to dress up in matching shirts or outfits that “can take an image from drab to nice.” He also warns to “watch your backgrounds” because “you don’t want to have trees or poles coming out of someone’s head.” Choose shaded areas as Sharing the same level as your subject matter, whether child or pet, gives you a different perspective opposed to sunlight, which can cause and more interesting angle. (Photo courtesy Josh Moates, Kim Box Photography) subjects to squint or your photo to have harsh shadows.

So now what do I do? photos, either softcover or hardback.

If you are around your grandchilNow that you’ve taken some memoBooks and calendars make great andren on Christmas morning, David rable photos with your digital camera, niversary, wedding or birthday gifts. A Robertson, Jr. suggests putting your what should you do with them? Gone calendar documenting the first year of a video camera on a tripod and letting it are the days of just getting 4 by 6 prints child’s life, month by month, would be a record the activities. That way you can made at the local drugstore (although gift appreciated by any family member, as get involved and not have to worry that’s still an option). The possibilities for are photo greeting cards and Christmas with the camera. preserving your photographic memories cards.

Rather than posing a child, or are only limited by your imagination.

Mugs, mouse pads, jigsaw anyone, merely holding up a present, Prints: Don’t use insta-print machines puzzles: These can be ordered through get them actually playing with the toy, at retail stores, Luke Lucas advises. They retailers locally or online at shutterfly. or wearing the new sweater. While a usually have a shelf life of only five years com, snapfish.com. Check out the child is excitedly opening a gift, Luke before they start losing quality. Same for puzzle-creating software at http://www.

Lucas suggests using the high-speed photos printed on home printers. Get tibosoftware.com/jppcreator.htm or button (if your camera allows it) to photographic prints, which will last 80 to http://www.kraisoft.com/puzzle-games/ capture the action in short bursts.

100 years. jigsaw.

Vacations and pets Better option: Take your photos Digital photo frames: Unlike static When people go on vacations, they off the memory card of your camera photo frames, digital versions cycle sometimes get carried away shootand using your computer, store them through your photos every few seconds. ing scenes, famous landmarks and with an online service, such as Google’s Prices range from $60 up to $1,000, buildings, but are never in their own Picasa software, which is free, fast and depending on size and capacity. photos. Their photos could be found easy.You just need a Google account, Refrigerator magnets: Keep prints in anyone’s album. Be sure to include easily obtainable at google.com. Photos protected and ready to display on the yourself or family members in your uploaded to Picasa can then be shared frig with adhesive kits, available at busiphotos, say the Robertsons. with friends, family, and even the public, ness supply stores.

Moates advises getting an entire if you desire. Other online options are DVD slide shows: Free software, landmark or building in the photo. “If www.shutterfly.com, http://photobucket. such as Microsoft Photo Story 3 for I want to take a picture of a famous com, www.snapfish.com or flickr.com.

Windows or iDVD for Macs, allows you fountain, I would make sure I get the Photo books, calendars, and to set your photos to music, and then entire fountain in the shot. Back up, cards: Most of the online services offer share your moving picture stories with zoom out and that will help.” He also the option to create books from your others online. suggests using a wide-angle lens for

travel photos, to give you a sense of the size of the landscape or monument.

While shooting the larger photos, don’t forget the details: an inscription on a statue, the spiral shape of a stairwell, a pile of shells you collect on the beach. “Keep your camera with you all the time, so if something catches your eye, you’re ready,” says Jackie.

Heath Stone advises always having plenty of batteries and extra memory cards when you go on vacation, so you won’t miss any priceless memories. “It bugs me to have to go through my images and delete pictures because I ran out of room on my card, and it always happens when my daughter is doing something precious that I would love to capture.”

With pets, the same rule of getting on ground level with children applies. “The best shots of my animals are always when I’m on the floor,” says Moates. “Focus on their eyes and make a crazy noise. For a cat, I do the whistle. For a dog, I just bark at them, and they look at me like I’m crazy, and I snap it and it’s always great. Getting on their level is the key.”

For cats, using a ribbon to make them jump is another trick, says David Robertson, Sr. And if you can adjust shutter speeds (in manual mode), use a fast one to avoid blurs, and try to have a plain background so your pet will show up better.

While these tips are meant to be helpful, don’t let them stifle your imagination. “Don’t get caught up in the rules,” says Luke Lucas.

“The more you try to focus on the rules, the less room you have for creativity.” Jackie agrees. “I had a professor once who said, ‘If it looks good, it is good.” And that’s true. If you like it, you’ve done a good job.”

The “golden hour.”Taken on the front porch, late afternoon.

(Photo courtesy Heath Stone, Stone Images Photography)

Buying a Digital Camera If you’ve not made the leap from film camera to digital, there’s no better time to do so.

Prices range from around $100 for a basic point-andshoot, to more than $500 for an SLR, a single-lens reflex with interchangeable lenses, which functions much like a traditional 35mm film camera.

For basic family and vacation photos, Trey Ward, retail sales manager at Capitol Filmworks in Montgomery, recommends a “medium-range” point and shoot such as the new Nikon Coolpix S8100, which retails for about $300. At 12.1 megapixels, it will shoot five frames per second, making it perfect to capture children running or any sports photos.

It has a big 10x optical zoom, vibration reduction (no shaky images), can shoot HD video, and has red eye correction.

Like most new digital cameras, it also features automatic scene recognition. The camera automatically recognizes what type of scene you are shooting, whether it be a landscape, portrait or closeup, and sets the correct mode for you.

A less expensive model, for about $100, is the Fuji AX200 with a 5X zoom, 12 megapixels, and HD video. “It’s the most camera you can get for your money,” Ward says. For $150, the Canon Powershot A3100IS is another good buy, Ward says. It has a 4X Zoom and the “smart auto” feature which automatically selects the settings you need.

Digital SLR cameras range from $500 to $899. SLR’s

shoot a higher quality file (known as “raw” files), Ward says, and are a good choice for the serious amateur photographer. He recommends the Canon Digital Rebel Series, which feature HD video, different lenses, and offer more megapixels. “SLRs can be as fully automatic as you want,” he says. Lenses can run from $200 up to several $1,000’s.

At 14.2 megapixels, the Nikon D3100 runs about $700, and offers HD video, low-light capabilities, and is lightweight. Ward calls it “an excellent bargain.”

All digital cameras come with a built-in flash, but if you need light for a subject more than 15 feet away, you’ll need an additional flash, which can range from $200 to $500 or more. “But one of the nice things about these cameras is you can shoot in program mode at ISO 3200 and you don’t need a flash,” Ward says.

Luke and Jackie Lucas recommend using a wrist strap for your camera, storing it in a canvas pouch, and buying from a camera retailer rather than an electronics store.

Every photographer has his or her own favorite brand of camera, but as Josh Moates says, “It’s more important to know how to use the camera than what camera to use.”

Capitol Filmworks offers classes in basic camera usage, digital photography and advanced photography every month.Visit http://gocfw.com and click on the classes tab for more information. Tutorials in photography are also available on Youtube.com.

October Community Calendar Sundays — 1 - 2 p.m. Free docent-led tours of temporary exhibitions at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts.

Oct — Wednesdays and Thursdays. MMFA. After School Art. 334-240-4333.

Oct 6 — 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Senior Health Expo Eastdale Mall.

Healthcare and other providers of services to the mature market will be on-hand.

Oct 7 — Fundraising dinner. March of Dimes Citizen of the Year. Renaissance. 334-277-6910.

Oct 7 — 7:30 p.m. Juilliard String Quartet, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. 50th season of the Montgomery Chamber Music Organization. 334-277-3505 Oct 9 — 8 a.m. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk.

Huntingdon College. 334-288-8543.

Oct 9 — 10th Annual Walk ‘n Wag Dog Walk. Fundraiser for Montgomery Humane Society. 334-409-0622

or PopsOct Concert 9 — 12- 4 p.m. 1st Annual Riverwalk Wine Festival. Rivay Undererwalk the Stars Amphitheater. er 16 • 7:30pm/ Blount Cultural Park

Oct 9 — 3 p.m. Friends of the Alabama Governor’s Mansion Garden Party at the Rees Home, Old Cloverdale. 334-8344848.

Oct 10 — Clefworks House Concert. Classical and contemporary chamber music, cocktails, light hors’ d oeuvres. Jim Scott home, Lake Martin.Visit www.clefworks.org.

Oct 14 — 4 p.m. Monthly meeting, Montgomery Hearing Loss Support Group. First United Methodist Church Chapel.

Speaker, refreshments, discussion of hearing loss issues. 334262-3650 Oct 20 — Montgomery Area Council on Aging Seniors of Achievement Luncheon. 334-263-0532 Oct 21-23 — Jr. League Holiday Market. Renaissance. 334288-8816.

Oct 22 -- 7-10 p.m. 10th Annual Tavern Fest, Old Alabama Town. 334-240-4500.

Oct 28 -- 11:45 a.m. 10th Business Committee for the Arts Awards Luncheon. Renaissance. 334-263-2224.

Oct 30 — ASF Silver Anniversary Gala fundraiser.Visit www. asf.net.

Season of Discovery MSO MONTGOMERY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Classical Series

October 11, 2010 November 22, 2010 December 14, 2010 February 14, 2011 May 2, 2011

November 2010 to May 2011

www.montgomerysymphony.org

•

334/240-4004

David Campbell/ASU

Fellowship Series

Prime diversions

Recent DVD Releases

Prince of Persia and Get Him to the Greek

Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time (PG-13) This live-action sword-and-sorcerer adventure from Disney plays like a patchwork of elements from other fantasy fare, but still works surprisingly well. The hero (Jake Gyllenhaal) is an orphan Horatio Alger would have loved. The king is so impressed with his character and skills (including an ancient Persian form of parkour) that he adopts him as a third son, though out of the line of succession. Fifteen years later, the three lads and their uncle (Ben Kingsley) decide to attack a holy city their father had stated was off limits. But someone convinces the eldest son that the target had been supplying the ancient equivalent of WMDs to their enemies.

Everyone eventually learns there’s a secret of immense magical power hidden beneath the place, guarded by a beautiful (Duh. Aren’t they always?) princess (Gemma Arterton).

The band of brothers conquer the city easily. Jake’s a hero, but the plot quickly thickens with threads from The Lion King, Robin Hood, Aladdin and many other familiar tales of yore.

This production works because the creative team nailed the right balance between adventure and amusement - exactly what the inappropriately somber Clash of the Titans, which coincidentally also featured Ms. Arterton, failed to do. Much of the comedy, including some surprisingly hip political satire, comes from Alfred Molina, who runs a thieves’ paradise in the desert. While not as clever or as whimsical as The Princess Bride, it’s still a solid option for most ages and tastes.

(9/14/10)

Get Him to the Greek (R) Judd Apatow’s comedy mill has cranked out a slew of fine products, ranging from Mark Glass the romantic to lowbrow grossout segments of the genre.

This is not one of them.

A minor character in Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Russell Brand’s Aldous Snow, returns to co-star as an over-the-hill British rocker, convinced to try a comeback performance.

Jonah Hill gets the thankless job of keeping Snow sane, sober and focused on a trek from London to New York and Los Angeles for a TV promo spot and the big event.

The result is a road-trip, drug and sex enhanced variation on the far superior pairing of Peter O’Toole and Mark Linn-Baker in My Favorite Year.

This one opens with some promise, especially when Sean Combs (currently a/k/a P.Diddy) shows some comedic chops in an early scene.

But the nerd riding herd on the party animal shtick wears thin, and the attempt to flesh them out as protagonists we’d take seriously is far short of engaging. The result is a whiff on both fronts, despite a scattering of belly laughs and chuckles along the way. (9/28/10)

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

Contact Bob Hansen 334-657-4104 www.bhansen.tsfl.com

out & about

1

1. Volunteers with the 5th Annual Friends of the Community Health Fair held in Wetumpka (L-R): 1st row - Billie Rawls, Betsy Sheldon, Barbara Sims, DeLane Poague.

2nd row - Gayle Sandlin, Emily Law, Sue Barnet, Pamela Pinkard, Jeanette Chalker.

3rd row - Steve Garst, Ben Alford, Mary Turner, Jonathan Yarboro, Craig Sheldon.

2. Members of the Alabama Retired State Employees Association in Montgomery for their 2010 convention.

2

Family History research workshop Alabama Department of Archives and History October 13, 9 a.m. - Noon Farley Auditorium $20 ($15 for Friends of the Archives)

Are you 62 or older?

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________________________ 6845 Halcyon Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Allison Bonds•334-270-9100•allisonb@resmortgage.com 32

October 2010 | www.primemontgomery.com

Learn how to research your family history with a hands-on workshop at the Alabama Dept. of Archives & History.

Senior Archivist Nancy Dupree, author of Prime Montgomery’s Discovering Your Past, introduces you to ADAH records and resources, and offers tips on using these resources to learn more about your family.

• call 334-242-4435 • • register on-line • • www.archives.alabama.gov •

By Roger Jurgovan | Rotomac, MD

TMSPuzzles@aol.com

Crossword Clues ACROSS 1 Squabble 5 Waned 10 Close to closed 14 Tramp 15 Nurse Barton 16 Story 17 Grad 18 Best Actor, "On Golden Pond" 20 Styles 22 Ryan or Tatum 23 Gave medical aid to 24 Concise 26 Actor Beatty 27 Howard of "Annie Get Your Gun" 28 Scrap of food 31 Shies 34 Jokers 35 Classic beginning?

36 Forestry tools 37 See 27D 38 Yemen capital 39 Fabrication 40 View

41 Quench 42 Doctrine 43 Quarry 44 Vim 45 Mimicry 47 Mrs. FDR 51 Item with strings attached?

53 Surmounted 54 Best Actor, "Separate Tables" 57 Terrible czar?

58 Ireland 59 Looks __ everything 60 Hawaiian goose 61 Dispatched 62 Celebration 63 Medical suffix DOWN 1 Stream of light 2 __ bear 3 Invective 4 Best Actor, "Philadelphia" 5 Repeated 6 Mix together 7 Prohibits

8 Make a blunder 9 Actress Doris 10 Do penance 11 Best Actress, "Coming Home"

12 "Paper Lion" star Alan 13 Tangible 19 Thwarts 21 Residents of: suff.

24 Tours topper 25 Cincinnati nine 27 With 37A, Best Actress, "Misery" 29 Stink 30 Inflection 31 Island east of Java 32 WWII alliance 33 Best Actor, "Cat Ballou" 34 Guarded 37 Whirring sound 38 Best Actor, "Scent of a Woman" 40 While away 41 Clairvoyant 44 More than sufficient 46 Promontory 47 Occurrence 48 Church areas 49 Man from Muscat 50 Coty and Descartes 51 Summer coolers 52 Peel 53 Ended 55 Snooze 56 One of the Gershwins (c)2010 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC. For Crossword answers, see page 31. For Sudoku answers, see page 22.

Support the Businesses that Support Prime Montgomery When you visit one of these businesses, speak to the owner or manager on our behalf. Tell them you’re a Prime Montgomery reader, and let them know you appreciate their support for the River Region’s premiere monthly magazine focusing on those of us 50+. — Thank you.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival All Ears Hearing Center Auburn Montgomery Continuing Ed. Bou Cou Capitol Grill DeRamus Hearing Centers

Eastdale Estates ITEC Kynard Korner’s Boutique Montgomery Ballet Mr. G’s Ristorante MCA Fitness Center

- MCA Fitness -

Montgomery Symphony Pepper Tree Steaks ‘N Wines Residential Mortgage Corp.

Steak-Out Stone Images Photography Take Shape For Life

DON’T BE FOOLED by Fitness Myths ____________________ • No Pain, No Gain • Your body responds positively to the right demands placed on it. Pushing it too far can be counter-productive.

• Sweating Means Fat Loss • Weight loss from sweating is water, not fat. After re-hydration the weight returns.

• Stop Lifting Weights and Muscle Turns to Fat • Muscles may decrease in size when you stop weight training, but they are not converted to fat.

MCA Fitness - 2119 E. South Blvd. Montgomery 334-280-1409

Surgeon Brings Implantable Hearing System to the River Region __________________________________________________

All Ears Hearing Center, comprehensive hearing services provided

by Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose and Throat surgeon) Dr. Rick Love*, will begin offering a new type of hearing assistance system, an implant requiring surgical and audiologic services. The surgery/audiology requirements of the new system make All Ears Hearing Center the natural choice for implementation.

Patients meeting selection criteria may be eligible for coverage for this FDA approved device under many Medicare & BCBS AL plans.

(Not all patients with hearing impairment are eligible.)

Visit the All Ears Hearing Center Booth Senior Health Expo • Eastdale Mall Wednesday October 6th • 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. ___________________________________

All Ears Hearing Center • 6912 Winton Blount Blvd.

Montgomery • 334-281-8400 • www.allearscenters.com

*2005 National Practitioner of Excellence, AAOHNS Board of Governors

Residential Mortgage Corp. _________________ With 16 years experience in the Montgomery housing market, Residential Mortgage has helped clients lower their monthly payments with traditional FHA, VA or conventional refinancing.

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Photography

Stone Images

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Photography is our passion, not just our business.

• Portraiture • (Formal and Casual)

• Weddings • (Including Destination)

Stone Images Photography Montgomery, AL 334-467-1900 • heath@heathstone.us www.heathstone.us References Available

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Some hearing my require stronger receivers not covered by insurance. This offer valid through 12/31/10 and cannot be used with any other discount.

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