Prime Celebrating Midlife and Beyond
FREE FOR YOU
July 2015
The Royal Prime
Family Cruising (Take the grandkids!)
plus: Mosquito facts & fictions
Live the Good Life at CaraVita Village
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4000 Fieldcrest Drive • Montgomery, AL 36111 www.caravitavillage.com
July 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com
July 2015 Editor’s Note
4
Quick Reads
6
A Gracious Plenty
8
Chilly soup for a hot day
Yard ‘n Garden 10
Bluejays & peanuts
Our History 11
Do you know these people?
Social Security 12
Fraud prevention: you can help
MoneyWi$e 13
Don’t leave money on the table
On Their Own 14
When a life partner dies
Pesky Pests 16
Keeping mosquitoes at bay Do garlic, oil of cloves, cirtronella, vitamin B1or bananas help repel mosquitoes? Discover the facts and fictions about coping with these buzzing pests. (Page 16)
Cruising: Family Style 20
Special tips for cruising with kids
In Every Life 25
Freshen your diet with produce
Louisiana’s Cultural Crossroad 26 Shreveport-Bossier City
Plan a summer party 29 Tinseltown Talks 30
Prime Celebrating Midlife and Beyond
FREE FOR YOU
July 2015
The Royal Prime
Family Cruising (Take the grandkids!)
plus: Mosquito facts & fictions
Travel without driving? Dine without cooking or cleaning? Taking a cruise has become a common vacation option for many families. Learn how to make the best of your cruise, and please even the youngest family members. (Page 20)
Julie Newmar: Cat Woman
Puzzles 32 Medicare 33 Q&A
Calendar 36 July DVD Releases 37 Off the Beaten Path 38 Getting “skunked”
www.primemontgomery.com | July 2015
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Prime I
EDITOR’S NOTE
MONTGOMERY
July 2015 Vol. 6, Issue 4
PUBLISHER Bob Corley, primemontgomery@gmail.com EDITOR Sandra Polizos, primeeditor@gmail.com ART DIRECTOR Callie Corley, primemagdesign@gmail.com WRITERS Claire Yezbak Fadden, Chris Jay, Lisa M. Petsche, Sara Schwartz CONTRIBUTORS Niko Corley, Mark Glass, Janine Koslofsky, Kylle’ McKinney, Arlene Morris, Nick Thomas, Alan Wallace 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 2015 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.
had lunch last week with two sweet friends, both approaching retirement and an end to their formal careers. Employees of a K-12 school they love, one is a chief administrator, the other the liaison between graduates and their alma mater. It was a wonderful, upbeat conversation, as my friends anticipated their happy, albeit significant life change, and I related my experiences as the oh-so-“seasoned” veteran retiree — of exactly one year. Retirement is my happy place. After 30+ years of planning, scheduling, meeting, going, and doing, it is wonderful to wake up without an alarm, drink morning coffee on the patio, and engage in thoughtful discussions with my husband, ranging from the state of world affairs to the blooms on my hibiscus (though admittedly, the latter is pretty much a monologue.) The freedom of creating my own schedule provides the single greatest thrill in my post 9-to-5 world. Wanna paint? After lunch is perfect. Not up for battling a long grocery line? I’ll go in the morning. Need help with the grandkids? I’m there. That’s not to say it’s been smooth sailing all the way. Surprisingly, the unfettered schedule took a little getting used to. Retirement has its own rhythms, and like most everything in this modern worId, I had to sync-up to its peculiarities. Unplanned adventures are a sublime delight of retirement. The rigidity of the Monday through Friday work schedule conditions us to relegate recreation to weekend blocks, or maybe a once-a-year vacation. No more. These days it tickles me to take a midweek, overnight romp to Florida. (And the idea that we can extend a trip by a day or more — without consulting anyone— is sheer, unadulterated bliss.) I’m lucky because my work with Prime fulfills a need to stay significant, relevant, plugged-in. Smack dab in the middle of our target audience, I’m always on the lookout for valuable information, good stories (and writers) and things to share about this post-50 life. Rather than a chore, contributing to the magazine, instead, enriches my life in retirement (or rather, semi-retirement). The biggest surprise of not working a 9-5, Monday through Friday schedule? How wonderful Sunday afternoons and nights truly are. No more last minute grocery shopping to plan suppers and lunches for a week. No more rush to clean and iron my clothes. Prep needed for upcoming work challenges? I don’t think so. My challenges these days are the ones I choose. What flavor of ice cream shall my grandchildren and I make together? Do we swim before or after the nap? What book will spark squeals of delight as we climb on the sofa together for a much-needed story break? The years of hard work, the long hours, and the stressful times are a fleeting recollection these days. Life is too full of today. Who’s up for homemade ice cream?
Sandra Polizos Editor 4
July 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com
If you’re 50+ and on Facebook, become a fan of PRIME Montgomery!
you know it's time to quit. Here’s How we can Help.
call. online site. coaching. nicotine patches.* If medically eligible and enrolled in coaching
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Alabama Tobacco Quitline | Alabama Department of Publicwww.primemontgomery.com Health | July 2015
Quick Reads Low Back Pain Relief Strategy If you suffer from back pain, you’re not alone. A lifetime of walking, standing, lifting and twisting causes significant low back pain in 80 percent of all adults. The good news is acute low back pain usually goes away on its own, with little or no intervention. But if you’re looking for ways to ease your pain in the interim, try the following to aid in symptom relief and recovery: Rest up, but not too much! No longer than a day or two after your injury if pain is severe, as long periods of bed rest can weaken muscles and do more harm than good. n Get back on track, but start slowly, returning to regular activity as soon as you’re able in order to get your back conditioned and help prevent a relapse. n Take short walks throughout the day, and wear athletic shoes while walking. n Pull your stomach in slightly as you walk to support your back and limit the length of your steps to minimize tension on the back. n Try to walk on asphalt instead of cement, as cement is harder and can stress your back. n Use a heat wrap (safer than a heating pad; available in drugstores) or a heating blanket for temporary relief of muscle spasms and pain. n
Exercise & Diabetes Even without showing cardio benefits, diabetics who exercise can better control blood glucose levels, according to new research by U. of Texas Southwestern Medical Center cardiologists. Researchers found that waist circumference, percentage of body fat, and hemoglobin A1c levels − a test of long-term blood sugar − all improved in diabetic participants who exercised compared to those who did not. These benefits were seen whether the exercise was aerobic, resistance training, or a combination. “What we observed is that exercise improves diabetes control regardless of improvement in exercise capacity,” said study co-author Dr. Jarett Berry, UTSW Associate Professor of Internal Medicine and Clinical Sciences. The study proposes that exercisetraining programs for people with Type 2 diabetes should measure improvements in glycemic control, waist circumference, and percentage of body fat, rather than cardio-vascular improvements.
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– UT Southwestern Medical Center via Science Daily, www.sciencedaily.com July 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com
Pain relievers such as Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) and non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin® or naproxen Aleve®) can provide short-term relief when taken as directed by your doctor. Limit the use of these drugs to no longer than one or two weeks. Excessive/ long-term use can cause stomach ulcers and bleeding (NSAIDs) or liver damage (acetaminophen), especially in older adults. Don’t use them at all if you’re at risk for these adverse effects. – Scientific American, www.healthafter50.com
Dementia & Aluminum: No Connection
The discovery of larger-than-expected amounts of aluminum in the brains of some people who died of Alzheimer’s generated a great deal of publicity a number of years ago. Worried that aluminum might somehow promote the disease, many people threw away cans, cookware, cosmetics, antacids, antiperspirants and other items containing the metal. However, studies of people exposed to large quantities of aluminum did not reveal an increased risk of dementia. Most likely, aluminum deposits in brain tissue are a result — not a cause — of the underlying abnormalities associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Incidentally, more aluminum leaches into soft drinks from glass bottles — which contain approximately 1 percent aluminum —than from aluminum cans, which are coated with a thin layer of plastic. – Scientific American, www.healthafter50.com.
Alabama’s Top 13 Health Issues: Your Input Sought A draft of the 2015 Alabama Community Health Assessment (CHA) is available on-line for public review and comment. The final document will provide information that can be used for local community health improvement initiatives. The top 13 health issues were derived from a survey involving diverse agencies, organizations, community groups, health care providers and citizens across Alabama. The top 13 issues, in order of importance, were determined to be: n n n n n n n n n n n n n
Access to Care Mental Health and Substance Abuse Poor Pregnancy Outcomes Nutrition and Physical Activity Cardiovascular Diseases Sexually Transmitted Infections Cancer Child Abuse and Neglect Diabetes Geriatrics Injury and Violence Prevention Oral Health Cigarette Smoking
“We appreciate the assistance and support of our stakeholders in providing useful information,” State Health Officer Dr. Donald Williamson said. “We are hopeful that the information collected in this document will be a helpful resource that will be used in shaping healthier communities.” The public is invited to view the document on-line and submit comments before the CHA is finalized. The draft can be seen at www.adph. org/accreditation. E-mail comments to carrie.allison@adph.state.al.us.
Simple Strategy for Weight Loss For those wishing to lose weight and keep it off, here’s a simple strategy that works: step on a scale each day and track the results. A two-year Cornell U. study, recently published in the Journal of Obesity, found that frequent self-weighing and tracking results on a chart were effective for both losing weight and keeping it off, especially for men. Subjects who lost weight the first year in the program were able to maintain that lost weight throughout the second year. This is important because studies show that about 40 percent of weight lost with any dietary treatment is regained in one year, and almost 100 percent of weight loss is regained at the end of five years. “You just need a bathroom scale and an excel spreadsheet or even a piece of graph paper,” said David Levitsky, professor of nutrition and psychology at Cornell and the paper’s senior author. “It seems to work better for men than women, for reasons we cannot figure out yet.” Researchers believe stepping on a scale and tracking one’s weight acts as a reinforcement for behaviors such as eating less, and strengthens others such as going for a walk. The method “forces you to be aware of the connection between your eating and your weight,” said Levitsky. “It used to be taught that you shouldn’t weigh yourself daily, and this is just the reverse.”
Diagnosing Alzheimer’s Disease: First Step The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease involves a careful accumulation of information to confirm the presence of cognitive impairment and rule out other possible causes, such as depression, hypothyroidism, vitamin B12 deficiency or an undetected stroke. The process begins with a detailed medical history, a short test or interview to probe mental status and a physical and neurologic examination. Interviews with close friends or family members also can provide crucial information. Laboratory tests and, in certain cases, imaging scans of the brain may be performed. If you suspect you or a family member may have Alzheimer’s disease, the best first step is to consult a family doctor whom you know well. Many general practitioners are quite expert in evaluating patients for Alzheimer’s disease. Those who are not, or who feel that symptoms are atypical and should be evaluated by a specialist, can refer you to a neurologist, geriatrician or geriatric psychiatrist. If Alzheimer’s disease is in fact present, patients may benefit from a class of medications known as cholinesterase inhibitors. These drugs may result in slight improvements in memory and reasoning, slow cognitive decline and lessen psychological and behavioral problems. However, they don’t halt progression of the disease. – Scientific American, www.healthafter50.com.
– Information from Cornell U. via Science Daily, www.sciencedaily.com. www.primemontgomery.com | July 2015
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A GRACIOUS PLENTY
Summer Soup’s On M ove over gazpacho, there’s another refreshing cold summer soup made with zucchini and avocado. Just as gazpacho makes delightful use of summer’s bounty of tomatoes, this soup showcases zucchini and avocado, also abundant during the summer. Zucchini has soft skin and edible seeds. Usually dark or pale green, zucchini has a delicate, almost sweet earthy flavor, but overripe zucchini can have a more bitter taste. Newer varieties include golden – they have a slightly milder flavor than the green type. Look for fairly small zucchini that are firm and heavy for their size. Do not wash them until ready to use. Peeling is not necessary. Puréed avocado provides a silky texture and a refreshingly rich yet mild flavor in this summer soup. Botanically, avocados are a fruit that is high in heart healthy monounsaturated fat. The two main types of avocado are usually referred to as California and Florida avocados. The California avocados, such as the Hass variety called for
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July 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com
in this recipe, are the ones with the dark, pebbly skins; they have a more creamy consistency because of their higher fat content. The Florida avocados have smooth green rinds and are larger than the California variety. These avocados have more water and less fat, making them lower in calories per serving. Though either type may be used, the higher fat California Hass is perfect in this soup for its creamy quality. The secret to any soup is its base, which in this recipe comes from green onions, cilantro, lime juice and vegetable broth. Almond milk rounds out the soup’s silkiness and ties together the infusion of flavors. An easily and quickly made cucumber salsa topping adds the perfect contrasting crunch to this creamy soup. So when you desire a cold soup this summer, grab some zucchini and an avocado and whip them together. Avocado Zucchini Summer Soup will keep you energized and light on your feet on hot summer days.
Avocado Zucchini Summer Soup Makes 4 (1 cup) servings.
1 cup vegetable broth 3 cups chopped zucchini (about 2-3 medium zucchini) 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onion, divided 1 medium Hass avocado 1/8 tsp. ground cumin, optional 3/4 cup unsweetened plain almond milk
Cucumber Salsa 1 cup peeled, seeded, diced cucumber (about 1 medium cucumber) 1½ Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro 2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice, divided Salt to taste In a large saucepan over high heat, combine broth, zucchini and 1/4 cup onion. Cover and bring to a boil. Uncover, reduce heat and let simmer 6 minutes or until zucchini is tender. Remove from heat and set aside to cool for 20 minutes. In small bowl combine cucumber, remaining onion, cilantro and 1 tablespoon lime juice. Season with salt to taste. Toss well, cover and refrigerate. In blender, combine zucchini mix, avocado, cumin, if using, remaining 1 tablespoon lime juice and almond milk. Cover and purée until smooth. Leaving soup in blender container, refrigerate it for 2 hours. When ready to serve, re-blend soup. Add additional almond milk for thinner consistency, if desired. Pour into serving bowls. Top with salsa and serve. Courtesy: The American Institute for Cancer Research. AICR champions the latest and most authoritative international research on cancer prevention and survival through diet, weight and physical activity.
Prime Editor “Cooks” on Troy Public Radio Prime Editor Sandra Polizos recorded a trio of recipes for Troy Public Radio’s In Focus program, hosted by Carolyn Hutcheson weekdays at noon. Two have previously aired. The third recipe will be broadcast July 15. All three represent Polizos’ Greek heritage. July’s recipe is Peasant Moussaka, a recipe handed down from her grandmother, who was born on the Greek island of Chios.
A seaside village on the island of Chios, Greece. Troy Public Radio: WTSU 89.9 Montgomery/Troy; WRWA 88.7 Dothan; WTJB 91.7 Columbus, GA/Phenix City, AL www.primemontgomery.com | July 2015
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YARD ‘N GARDEN
Blue Jay Behavior By Janine Koslofsky
I
’m a ‘bird watcher.’ I discovered this accidentally about 20 years ago. I was on a trip and found myself spending most of my time looking at the unusual birds (at least to me) rather than the normal tourist sites. When I came home it occurred to me that I could spend more time watching birds if they would just be so kind as to come to my own backyard. Simple enough. I lived in Ft. Lauderdale at the time and blue jays were one of the most common birds around, so I started with them. I went to the grocery story and bought raw unsalted peanuts. I didn’t even buy a feeder, just threw a handful out onto the back patio. Blue jays don’t usually hang out in large flocks. You’ll normally see them one or two at a time and that is how they started arriving. It didn’t take long however for the word to get out and eventually I would have 12-20 blue jays fly in every morning and wait patiently along the top of my fence for the breakfast buffet. One jay in particular, who we’ll call Scout, seemed to be the ringleader. He was much braver than the others and seemed to be in charge. Some mornings I was clearly not moving fast enough for Scout. He’d flutter down from his usual lookout on the patio chair closest to the window and hop up onto the sliding glass door ledge. From there he could turn his little head one way and then the other so as to get a good look at me lazily sipping my coffee. If I was so rude as to continue to ignore him, he would start rapping on the window with his beak and then give me another beady-eyed stare. At that point I knew he was serious and I’d get up and head to the utility room to get the peanuts. Eventually he trusted me enough to do a ‘fly-by’ and steal a peanut right out of my hand. 10
July 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com
At first the jays would stop on the fence, hold the peanut between their feet and hammer the end of it with their beak until it broke open and they could enjoy the treat. Subsequent treasures were usually taken to a secret area to be hidden for future meals. I also noticed — and this is absolutely true — that the birds would walk or hop from nut to nut hefting them up as if to test their weight. They would inevitably fly off first with the largest triple nuts and then come back for the doubles and then the smaller single ones until all the nuts were gone. It turns out that bird behavior is fascinating. The more I watch them, the more amazed I am.Yes, they’re beautiful and it is fun to have the pretty and colorful ones flock to your yard, but watching what they do and how they do it is the true reward. Janine Koslofsky, a Master Gardener since 2011 in the Capital City Master Gardener Association, lives in Fitzpatrick, AL. For information on becoming a master gardener, visit the website, www.capcitymga.org or e-mail capcitymga@gmail.com. Capital City Master Gardener Association invites you to join them for a FREE LUNCH & LEARN “Camellias, Our State Flower” August 5, Noon – 1:00 P.M. Armory Learning Arts Center 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery Bring a Sack Lunch - Drinks Provided For more information contact the Montgomery County Extension Office (334) 270-4133
OUR HISTORY
H
ere are three additional photos in our partnership series with the Alabama Department of Archive and History. Can you help us identify the individuals in the photos? If so, please contact Meredith McDonough at 334-353-5442, or meredith.mcdonough@archives.alabama.gov, or e-mail Prime magazine at primemontgomery@gmail.com.
Top Left:Three members of the Dave Hamp family eating watermelon. Photo taken in 1949 by Horace Perry. Top Right: Children playing on the banks of a gravel quarry filled with water near Newtown, a neighborhood in Montgomery. Photo taken August, 1967, by Jim Peppler.
One child carries a tray of individual Supreme Ice Cream cartons to her kindergarten classmates, who are listening to their teacher read a book. In the background, children stand in line while another child scoops ice cream. Photo take April 9, 1959, by John E. Scott.
www.primemontgomery.com | July 2015
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SOCIAL SECURITY
Preventing Fraud I
n July, with American flags flying, we celebrate our nation’s birthday and the freedoms and protections we hold dear. Love for your country can take many forms, and Social Security takes preventing and combatting fraud as seriously as we take our other vital missions. Social Security has a zero-tolerance policy for fraud. In tandem with local law enforcement, we pursue criminals who cheat the system by collecting benKylle’ McKinney efits that they’re not owed.This might be as subtle as someone intentionally failing to report income and resources, or that they live with their spouse which can result in incorrect payments. Fraud might take the form of someone claiming to be disabled when, in reality, they continue to work.These examples are why we also rely on you, the American public, to report fraud when you see it. While we can’t prevent every instance of fraud any more than the most effective law enforcement agency can prevent all crime, we aggressively investigate and pursue prosecution of those who try to cheat and steal from the system. Our message to those who would defraud Social Security is clear:We will find you; we will prosecute you; we will seek the maximum punishment allowable under the law; and we will fight to restore the money you’ve
stolen from the American people. We impose stiff penalties to discourage people from committing fraud.We monitor cases closely, and we have sophisticated tools to help us predict where and when fraud may occur so we can catch it early — often before it happens. Social Security employs innovative weapons in the fight against fraud. Our Office of Anti-Fraud Programs (OAFP) is the newest member of Social Security’s anti-fraud team. Established in November 2014, the mission of OAFP is to coordinate all the agency’s efforts to efficiently and effectively detect, deter, and mitigate fraud, waste, and abuse of our programs. OAFP works closely with our Office of the Inspector General to ensure that there are consequences for those who commit fraud — even if the act isn’t prosecuted. Social Security takes fraud seriously, and so should you. In the same way that you might keep a keen eye out for suspicious activity that might harm our nation, we encourage you to keep an eye out for potential Social Security fraud. Some of our most vulnerable citizens — the elderly, disabled children and war veterans, as well as the chronically ill — are counting on you. If you suspect someone is committing Social Security fraud, report it online at http://oig.ssa.gov/report or call the Social Security Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271. Kylle’ McKinney, SSA Public Affairs Specialist, can be reached by e-mail at kylle.mckinney@ssa.gov.
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July 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com
Don’t Miss the Match
MONEYWI$E
A
tribute 50% of the first 6% of pay that each plan participant contributes via pre-tax salary reduction. For an employee earning $50,000, 6% of pay amounts to $3,000. If the n Just over 40% of Ameriemployee puts that much into cans participate in a retirethe plan each year, the matchment plan. (That means 60% ing formula means that the do not!) employer will add $1,500 to n A quarter of retirement Alan Wallace the employees account (50% x plan participants miss $3,000). This means that the employee out on some or all of their available gets an immediate 50% return on their match. own contribution in the year that they n The aggregate value of the lost put the money into the plan. (Matching employer-matching contributions is formulas vary among employers. Some $24 billion/year. are more and others less generous than n The average cost per participant of the one described above.) the lost match is $1,336/year. When it comes to saving for retirement, maximizing the matching opporIf you are working and have access to tunity is the first step to take, prior to a 401(k) or similar retirement plan, you funding any other retirement savings need to find out how your employer option. If the employee above only concontributes to the plan on your behalf. tributed 3% of pay each year, they are Some plan sponsors (employers) simply leaving $750/year in employer-contributcontribute a set percentage of pay for ed money on the table. Over a period of the employees who choose to particijust 15 years earning 6%, this lost money pate. If so, you need to be a plan parwould have grown to a total of $17,457. ticipant to get a share of the employer That may not be enough to make you contribution. wealthy, but anyone who thinks it isn’t a Most employers, however, structure worthwhile sum is welcome to send me the majority or even all of their plan a check for that amount. contribution in the form of a matching It is a fact that relatively few American amount. For instance, they might con-
recent story by Reuters columnist Liz Weston cited some revealing statistics:
workers today are covered by an oldtime employer-funded pension providing enough income to live comfortably in retirement. For the past 20-30 years the trend in retirement funding has been toward ever greater individual responsibility. The unfortunate fact is that many people have failed to save aggressively using the best available tools, which means they may face a prolonged period with limited resources. The sooner one starts setting money aside for retirement, the longer taxdeferred compound interest can work in their favor. For those who failed to save much in their earlier years, loading the boat during their remaining working years still makes good sense. This may require cutting some expenses now, but the alternative is to cut much more later. In any event, be sure to take full advantage of whatever matching formula is available in your retirement plan. And if you are married and your spouse has access to a match, make sure that he/ she does the same. Alan Wallace, CFA, ChFC, CLU, is a Senior Private Wealth Advisor for Ronald Blue & Co.’s Montgomery office, www.ronblue.com/ location-al. He can be reached at 334-2705960, or by e-mail at alan.wallace@ronblue. com.
www.primemontgomery.com | July 2015
13
FEATURE
On Their Own By Lisa M. Petsche
W
hen the loved one they've been living with passes away, many older adults face the challenge of learning to live alone — often for the first time. If there was a division of labor with their partner, they must either learn new life skills — for example, managing the household finances, maintaining their home’s condition inside and out or performing domestic tasks such as cooking, cleaning and doing laundry — or obtain help if feasible. If their spouse was the more physically or mentally able of the pair, living independently may pose special challenges. If you have a parent or other close relative who is new to living alone, read on for some areas of potential concern and how to help. Helping tips Medication management – Request a medication review by your relative’s primary physician to determine if all medications being taken are still necessary. Ask their pharmacist about available aids for organizing and remembering to take medications. Ensure all prescriptions are filled at one pharmacy. Nutrition – Set up a schedule to take your relative grocery shopping, arrange for a grocery delivery service, stock their freezer with heat-andserve foods or arrange for a “meals on wheels” service. Signing them up for a “Cooking for One” class at an
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July 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com
adult education center or community center is another idea. If your relative finds it hard to eat alone, encourage them to tie in mealtimes to radio or television programs of interest, look into communal dining programs and regularly have them over for dinner. Household maintenance – Arrange for regular housecleaning service and, if applicable, yard maintenance service. If your relative has limited income, they may qualify for a subsidized community program. Consult the local office on aging, an excellent source of information on a wide variety of community services. Transportation – Provide your relative with a bus pass or taxi gift vouchers, or investigate volunteer driver programs for seniors. If necessary, find out about accessible transportation services in their community. Vision – Ask your relative’s doctor for a referral to an ophthalmologist. If nothing can be done to improve their vision, get them a magnifier for reading small print, and other adaptive items such as a large-keypad telephone and a clock with oversized numbers. List important phone numbers on a poster board (use black lettering on white), and place it on the wall by their phone. Falls – Perform a safety assessment of your relative’s home to identify potential hazards - for example, clutter, poor lighting and lack of proper stair railings - and do what you can to rectify them.Visit a medical supply
C o mpre h e nsive Medical & Surgical care for your eyes.
EYE
F A C T S
• Diabetic Eye Care • Cataract & Glaucoma surgery • Pediatric eye care (newborns to teens) • Ptosis surgery (drooping eyelids/brows) • Treatment of eyelid lesions/repair of eyelids • Blepharoplasty (removal of excess fat, skin, muscle) • Botox® treatment (improve creases, frown lines, crow’s feet) • Refractive surgery (reduce dependency on glasses/contacts) Roy T. Hager, M.D., F.A.C.S. | James D. Izer, M.D. Charles N. Robbins, M.D. | Richard M. Murphy, O.D. 4255 Carmichael Court N. Montgomery • 334-277-9111
8007 U. S. Highway 231 Wetumpka • 334-567-9111
For a free copy of ITEC’s Viewpoint newsletter call 334-277-9111. Visit ITEC’s website at www.eyes-itec.com
store and check out the many products that might make daily activities easier and safer. Sign up your relative with a personal emergency response service, whereby they wear a lightweight, waterproof pendant or bracelet that has a button to press if they run into a crisis and need help. Finances – If money management is an issue, arrange for direct deposit of pension checks and automatic bill payment from your relative’s bank account. Assist your relative with contacting a lawyer to assign power of attorney for property to one or more people they trust. If they are experiencing financial hardship without their spouse’s income, ensure they apply for all possible government and private benefits, such as survivor’s pensions and income supplements. If necessary, assist them with moving to a smaller house or apartment suite or applying for rentgeared-to-income housing. If your relative has cognitive impairment and their partner was compensating, deficits may now be more pronounced, or perhaps apparent to you for the first time. If this is the case, arrange through their primary physician for a geriatric assessment. Research home supports such as telephone reassurance services, therapeutic day care programs and home health services that offer personal care, homemaking, nursing, dietary consultation, physical and occupational therapy and social work. A live-in caregiver is another option if finances permit. If your relative needs more help than community programs can provide and the cost of privatepay services is prohibitive, options include moving them in with you or another family member and finding a residential care setting that meets their needs. If feelings of isolation and loneliness are the main concern, your relative may wish to consider taking in a boarder, sharing accommodations with a relative or friend, relocating to an active adult community or, if their health is frail, moving into a retirement home. They should not make such a major decision hastily, though – encourage them to carefully consider their options. Lisa M. Petsche, a social worker and a freelance writer specializing in boomer and senior concerns, has personal experience with elder care. www.primemontgomery.com | July 2015 15
FEATURE
Protect yourself from
Mosquitoes! By Sara Schwartz, grandparents.com
S
ome people are just plain unlucky in the mosquito bite department. While some species of mosquitoes, like Culex, are attracted to the carbon dioxide all humans exhale, other species have a special attraction for certain people’s sweat and body odor—and that’s determined by a roll of the genetic dice. “Body odors are emitted because of bacteria that are digesting the oils on your skin,” says Joe Conlon, Technical Advisor to the American Mosquito Control Association and former Navy entomologist for 20 years. “Some odors are particularly attractive to mosquitoes; it’s genetically based.”
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Tip #1: Stay inside at dawn and dusk After the ambient outdoor temperature reaches 55 degrees, mosquitoes are generally out. While some species (like the Asian Tiger mosquito, which is typically found in Texas, Florida, and bordering states) are outside biting day and night most other species feed around sun-up and sundown. “The preponderance tend to be more active an hour after dusk and an hour before dawn,” says Conlon. “But if you’re out in the woods, you’ll get chewed up even at midnight. The worst types breed in salt marshes—they will feed on you at any time.”
above the ingredients on the bottle. “Being EPA registered says two things: 1) that the repellent is not harmful if used properly and 2) it guarantees at least two hours of protection,” says Conlon. EPA.gov lists the active ingredients found in their registered, skin-applied repellents, which includes DEET, but also natural options, like concentrated catnip oil, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and naturallyderived synthetics, like picaridin, which resembles a compound in black pepper. “DEET products are still the gold standard,” says Conlon. “The new formulations don’t smell anymore or have a yucky feel. Make sure to get 25-30% concentration — anything over that is wasted — and you’ll have a solid 4 to 8 hours of protection.”
Tip #2: Use an EPA-registered repellent If you’re going to spend time outside during mosquito season, it’s best to arm-up properly with a product that’s labeled as an “EPA-registered repellent.” Registration seals are typically placed just
Tip #3: Drain all the water on your property Mosquitoes need just five days to breed a new generation in standing water. So one of the best defenses you have is to eliminate all standing water from around your home. “I’ve seen mosquitos
Another factor that affects your bite risk: skin color. “It tends to be worse for people with pale skin,” Conlon says.You also may have heard that people with O-positive blood are more susceptible to mosquito bites. Untrue, he says. “Once they land and start probing your skin, they won’t give a darn about your blood type.” If you’re prone to mosquito bites, Conlon offers seven proven strategies for reducing your chances of being some mosquito’s next meal:
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EPA.gov lists the active ingredients found in their registered, skin-applied repellents, which includes DEET, but also natural options, like concentrated catnip oil, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and naturally-derived synthetics, like picaridin, which resembles a compound in black pepper.
breeding in discarded soda bottle caps,” says Conlon. “Cups left out and tarpaulins thrown over pools are also enough for them to breed and multiply.” You may even want to talk to your neighbors about draining water from their property, since the air we breathe out can draw mosquitoes from up to 35 meters away, according to the AMCA. Tip #4: Loose clothing helps Wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers your limbs is key. “Mosquitoes can and will bite through tight-fitting clothing,” says Conlon. “If you do wear tight clothing, make sure it has a tight weave.” He also advises wearing light colors, because certain types of mosquitoes can see dark colors more easily. Tip #5: Move less Keep calm, and you’ll carry on with fewer bites. “People who are fidgety are more attractive to mosquitoes,” says Conlon. “Also, larger people are more attractive, which may be because they produce more carbon dioxide and more odors than smaller people.”
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Myth #1: Growing certain plants can repel mosquitoes You may have heard that plants including Lemon balm, Catnip, Marigolds, Basil, Lavender, and Geranium are Nature’s answer to mosquito control, but Conlon says no garden plant will keep mosquitoes away. “There are plants that contain oils that will repel for 10 minutes if you crush them, but the actual plants are not effective—there are too many environmental factors that affect repellency,” he says. Myth #2: Candles can protect you Citronella candles are a summer staple, found on back patios, front porches, and every outdoor living space in between. But beware: Citronella candles lose their repelling power if it’s windy out—ditto for clip-on diffuser repellents. “If you use them outside, make sure there’s no breeze—it will blow the concentration right off you,” says Conlon. “Clip-ons work in a closed space, but when you get out into the environment, wind and humidity lower their effectiveness.”
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Myth #3: Natural repellents work just as well Be wary of repellents featuring the following natural ingredients—Conlon had this to say about them: n Garlic: Useless. Crushed garlic oils are only effective for about 20 minutes, and you’ll repel more humans than insects. n Essential oil of cloves: Some repellant properties, but it only works at 15% concentration, which would burn a hole in your clothes. It’s extremely acidic. n B1 supplements: Don’t work. They’ve been tested with dogs and humans to no success. n Bananas: Some people say eating them repels mosquitoes, but the USDA says that’s nonsense. Courtesy: grandparents.com
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FEATURE
Cruising, Family Style By Claire Yezbak Fadden
I
wanted this family vacation to be perfect. It was the summer before my oldest son would leave home for college. Chances are this might be the last "regular" family vacation we would have. It had to be just right. That's where the problem came in: Combine two parents, and three brothers, (ages 11 to 19) all with different ideas of what makes a great vacation. What would a college junior, a high school sophomore and a sixth grader want to do? How could my husband and I find a bit of alone time during this quality family time? It didn't take a miracle (but pretty close). Solution: a family cruise. It offered all the ingredients: excitement, exotic destinations, a variety of activities, fabulous food and a chance for this married couple to get reacquainted. Our one-week excursion aboard Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas took us to Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas and Mazatlan. The boys, Shawn, Jake and Seth, shared a cabin. Husband/dad Nick and I had a separate room — romantic accommodations with a fabulous ocean view.
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Cruising with Kids Taking a cruise with your family can be a challenge. It can also be the best vacation ever, with just a bit of planning. Here are a few tips to help make your next family cruise a wonderful, unforgettable experience.
On Board Fun Royal Caribbean offers a program for every age group ages 3 through 17. Seth was part of the Voyagers (9-11). He and his friends would take off on scavenger hunts, find time for a science adventure, take in a movie or participate in GaGa Ball! Ice cream parties, trivia challenges and endless pizza was Seth's newfound, temporary lifestyle. He was enjoying himself so much that we had to make a reservation just to see him at dinner. Jake, who turned 15 during the cruise, enjoyed the teen scene activities.You'd find the 15-17 crowd dancing at the Fantaseas Night Club, trying their hand at a round of wacky golf or competing in a Ping-Pong tournament. As an athlete interested in keeping up with his soccer-training program, Shawn found the ShipShape(r) Fitness Center the place to be. After running laps around the ship's jogging track, he would spend time on the stair stepper or treadmill and then lift weights. The center, with its floor to ceiling windows, boasts massage rooms and a sauna.
1) Consider a short cruise for the first time out. 2) Sail in the summer or during school holidays when most families cruise. There generally will be more kids for your child to make friends with. 3) Choose a cruise line that offers established kid programs. A ship that has a program already in place is more than likely to have something your child will enjoy. They have experience with kids and offer programs that divide them up according to age. 4) If you're traveling with a teen, check out the teen club on board. At this age, teens have their own ideas of fun. They don't want to be lumped in with the little kids. Often ships will offer activities like watching movies on the club's big screen television, playing trivia games and dancing in the disco. 5) Discuss and prepare for seasickness. Although it is rare on today's well-stabilized vessels, your kids may be prone to motion sickness. If she has a history of getting sick in cars, trains or planes, you may want to consult your pediatrician for a remedy. The ship's doctor and nurse are available in case of health problems - a comforting thought for families traveling with children of any age. 6) Check what documentation for children is required (ID, etc.). Be especially careful if your child is crossing borders, and only one birthparent is on the trip. 7) You never know when a sick child will change your cruise plans. Make sure you understand the cancellation fees, and fees for changing dates. Look into the cost of trip cancellation insurance. It might be worth the price.
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Food, Food, Food! Elegant sit-down meals, casual dining, pizza parlors, ice cream/ dessert bars and midnight snacks kept tummies happy. Even room service was available 24 hours a day. Most evenings, everyone in our gang made it to the formal dining room for an exquisite meal. (Occasionally Seth would opt for the company of his Voyagers friends over our company.) Each evening the chef would prepare a sumptuous four-course delight - seafood, steak, pasta and vegetarian choices abounded. They offer a kids’ menu too. The food equaled the top-notch service displayed each night. Our headwaiter, Ahmed and his assistant, Ronald had their own unique ways to make each of us feel special.
Shore Excursions The great part of a cruise vacation is visiting exciting ports of call. Our cruise took us to the Mexican Riviera cities of Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta. In Cabo San Lucas, the majority voted for the snorkeling and sail adventure. Lunch was at Cabo Wabo Sammy Hagar’s popular restaurant. While in Mazatlan we opted for the city tour. We enjoyed watching the Papantla Flyers perform high above our heads, the beauty of Mazatlan’s folk dancing and a walk through local shopping areas. In Puerto Vallarta, basking at the beach was the order of the day. Take advantage of pre-booking your shore excursions. The best ones fill up fast. Take a few minutes ahead of time to familiarize yourself with your options. Many cruise lines will allow you to reserve your shore excursions ahead of time.
Nightlife Looking for grown-up fun? Shipboard nights are full of possibilities. Sing karaoke to your favorite tune, laugh at edgy comedy during a show, try your hand at blackjack or enjoy a live musical stage production - every night offers a different, exciting event. There was a wonderful variety of entertainment as well as chances to dance under the stars, participate in games or just have some quite time together. Junior cruisers, under the age of 13, had to be accompanied by a parent. 22
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Puerto Vallarta (below) is a popular west coast cruise destination, as is Cabo San Lucas (opposite top) and Mazatlan (opposite bottom).
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Celebrations at Sea As luck would have it, both Jake and Seth celebrated a birthday aboard ship - Jake on Tuesday and Seth on Friday. For an additional charge, we had the boys’ cabin decorated with streamers and balloons. In addition to the celebration at dinner, a party cake was delivered to the cabin on both special days. At the Purser’s Desk, it’s easy to request decorations and special touches added to your cabin to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, wedding or any special occasion. Singer-songwriter Smokey Robinson says it all when he croons: “I love it when we’re cruising together.” Our family cruise was a big hit with all five of us although we each have different reasons why. There is one thing that we all agree on, though — we had a great time just being together. And isn’t that what family vacations are all about?
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Intergenerational Cruising N
ot every grandmother and grandfather lives in the same zip code as their grandchildren, making it difficult to create memories and spend quality time together. Intergenerational vacations offer a terrific way for families separated by states, even countries, to spend quality time together. Cruises are an affordable vacation option and they offer a safe and secure environment with lots of age-appropriate activities and food choices to please even the pickiest of eaters. Here are a few ideas to help in the planning of this magical, memory-making event.
letter permitting any medical treatment for emergencies that might arise. Have a record of each child’s allergies and immunization history. Also, you will need a written and notarized Permission to Travel Letter signed by both of the child’s birth parents or legal guardians authorizing you to travel with the children. Cruise ships, border crossings and even shore excursions require this formal authorization. According to the U.S. Passports and International Travel website, “children under age 16 arriving by sea from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean may present an original or certified copy of his or her birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or Certificate of Citizenship.” For more information about the appropriate documents, ask your travel agent or visit http:// travel.state.gov.
Pick the Place To avoid planning a trip that is too child focused or overwhelming with adult activities, involve your children and grandchildren in selecting the destination. Allow time to familiarize everyone with the layout of the ship. Enjoy poring over details of the ports-of- call and sift through the variety of shore excursions before coming to a consensus. This way, you can discuss vacation details ahead of time and avoid any unwanted surprises.
Bring Along If the grandkids are young, toting along something familiar is a good idea. Pack their favorite stuffed animal, action figure, dolly or blanket. If the child is used to sleeping with a nightlight, tuck one of those in your bag as well. For older children, encourage them to bring a camera and write in a journal to keep a daily record of the trip.
Ask about Deals Work with your travel agent or a cruise representative to uncover money-saving deals before booking your cruise. Often there are rebates for early bookings, a reduced children’s rate or a discount for the third and fourth passengers in a stateroom. The agent will be able to advise you about booking adjoining rooms, if that’s an option you’re seeking. Prepare the Paperwork Make sure to have your grandchild’s health insurance information, recent photos, and a 24
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Ground Rules Understanding expectations will make the vacation go smoother for everyone. If you’re bringing teenage grandchildren, set up a curfew and require that they don’t roam the ship alone, but rather travel in pairs. Determine a guideline for souvenir buying and set your monetary limit, perhaps one item in each port. Taking your grandchildren on a cruise is a seamless way to way to reconnect with your family’s youngest generation -- and spoil them to your heart’s content. Claire Yezbak Fadden, a San Diego-based freelance writer and mother, is eager to plan another cruise vacation. Follow her on Twitter@claireflaire.
IN EVERY LIFE
Enjoy Summer’s Bounty S
ummer is a wonderful time of year in many ways. One reason is increased access to fresh fruits and vegetables. I recall visiting my grandparents as a child and helping them bring in fresh tomatoes, corn, cucumbers, okra, figs and grapes from their backyard garden. There may have been more, but these are the ones I recall helping to pick, wash, cook, and then enjoy at dinner later the same day. In my memory nothing was ever more delicious! Special diets are often part of chronic disease management, but nutritious diets are critical lifestyle choices for basic health promotion, providing the necessary building blocks of carbohydrates, protein, fats, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and fluid.Vitamins prevent deficiency symptoms and disease (scurvy, for example). Research continues to reveal vitamins as antioxidants and hormone-like substances required for cellular metabolism.Vitamins have specific functions within our bodies and, except for Vitamin D, must be obtained from dietary intake. Some Vitamin D can be produced by our bodies in the presence of sunlight. The U. S. Department of Agriculture initiative MyPlate (http://www.choosemyplate. gov/about.html) recommends half of our plates be comprised of fruit and vegetables to maintain health. Popular diets such as the Mediterranean or DASH diets include a foundation of fruits and vegetables. The National Research Council presents guidelines for
RESOURCES
Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) values. DRI is an umbrella term that includes Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), Adequate Intake (AI), and Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UP). This helpful resource can guide portion intake and prevent consuming toxic levels from supplements (access at http://fnic.nal.usda.gov/dietaryguidance/dietary-reference-intakes). Although absorption may be reduced Arlene Morris with aging or some disease processes, dietary intake is the preferred source for vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Here are a few tips: n Fresh, intensely colored produce provides higher concentrations of nutrients n Avoid purchasing wilted or damaged fruit or vegetables n If you buy fresh at chain markets, look for the country of origin. Countries outside the U.S. may allow chemicals that are banned for U. S. agricultural use due to potential toxicities. n If you buy fresh at a farmers’ market, you can ask the producer what chemicals are used. n Carefully wash and rinse all fresh products to avoid bacterial contamination, and bag separately from meat. n Vitamins that dissolve in water may be lost through steam if fruit or vegetables are not covered during cooking. Brief grilling, broiling, or covered steaming retains the most nutrients. If you grow your own, delight in the process and the results. See the Resources box for further suggestions for handling fresh produce. Enjoy! Arlene H. Morris, EdD, RN, CNE, is Professor of Nursing, Auburn Montgomery School of Nursing, and Immediate Past President of the AL State Nurses Association. Reach her at amorris@aum.edu.
Foods — Fresh vs. Frozen or Canned http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002095.htm Raw Produce, Selecting and Handling It Safely http://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/ Consumers/ucm114299.htm Food Safety at the Farmers’ Market http://www.foodsafety.gov/blog/farmers_market.html Farmers’ Markets — Fresh, Nutritious, Local http://www.nutrition.gov/farmers-markets
Making Meals that Heal Guide http://www.med.navy.mil/sites/nmcphc/Documents/health-promotion-wellness/wounded-illand-injured/WII-Toolbox/Nutrition/WII_Nutrition_Guide.pdf National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute — Healthy Eating Recipes http://healthyeating.nhlbi.nih.gov/default.aspx U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Recipe Finder http://recipefinder.nal.usda.gov www.primemontgomery.com | July 2015
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FEATURE
Cultural Crossroad: Shreveport-Bossier By Chris Jay (photo courtesy Shreveport-Bossier CVT)
S
hreveport-Bossier, in the northwestern corner of Louisiana, is the third-largest community in Louisiana, home to a thriving nightlife and entertainment scene with a year-round calendar of festivals and cultural events. It also has a burgeoning culinary scene and opportunities to explore the great outdoors. The city serves as a crossroads where Cajun and Creole traditions of Louisiana blend with the wideopen spirit of Texas. This combination can be tasted in the food, where Texas-style barbecue often shares a plate with traditional Louisiana favorites — gumbo, poboys and crawfish étouffée. This cultural combo is also heard in the music, where jazz and soul share the stage with blues, country, rock and zydeco. Local festivals, celebrating everything from crawfish to black history, provide year-round opportunities to immerse yourself in a fascinating blend of cultures. Music history enthusiasts will find much to explore in Shreveport-Bossier, including the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium, a National Historic Landmark and home to the legendary Louisiana Hayride radio broadcast from 1948 to 1960. Elvis Presley made his performance debut at there on Oct. 16, 1954. A statue 26
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of The King welcomes visitor to the auditorium on Elvis Presley Boulevard. Blues legend Huddie “Lead Belly” Ledbetter was born and raised in Mooringsport near Shreveport. His gravesite at Shiloh Baptist Church Cemetery in Mooringsport is a frequent destination for blues aficionados. Other well-known local musicians include country singer Claude King, guitar legend James Burton, blues guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd, country superstar Kix Brooks and jazz drummer Brian Blade. If you’re feeling lucky, visit one of the six riverboat casinos or enjoy the excitement of live horse racing. Many casinos are located along the Red River downtown near one of the areas hottest music venues, Horseshoe Riverdome, drawing legendary performers including Willie Nelson, Smokey Robinson and The Beach Boys. The Horseshoe Casino and Hotel includes poolside party cabanas, multiple bars and an outdoor stage hosting touring bands and DJs. Enjoying the great outdoors takes many forms, from a trip down the Red River aboard the Spirit of the Red River Cruise, to zip-lining through a swamp filled with live alligators at Gators and Friends Alligator Park
and Exotic Zoo. The Red River National Wildlife Refuge is one of Louisiana’s top bird-watching destinations with 6.5 miles of hiking trails, a lake for fishing, and an interpretive center offering interactive educational programs for all ages. Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park in Shreveport also offers an outstanding network of trails, many wheelchairaccessible.You can also hike and bike along the scenic riverfront. Several Shreveport-Bossier eateries are among the best-known in Louisiana: mom and pop diner Strawn’s Eat Shop was featured in Southern Living magazine; local seafood restaurant Herby-K’s was included in Garden & Gun magazine’s “100 Southern Foods You Absolutely, Positively Must Try Before You Die;” and Bossier City’s Silver Star Smokehouse was listed among the best BBQ restaurants in the U.S. by the Wall Street Journal. Mardi Gras is most often associated with New Orleans. However, Carnival season – with its parades, parties, and costumed balls – is huge in Shreveport-Bossier. In 2014 an estimated 283,120 people attended Shreveport-Bossier’s two largest Mardi Gras parades, the Krewe of Centaur and Krewe of Gemini parades. After Carnival season several major festivals commence in early Spring, including Holiday in Dixie, one of the oldest annual festivals in the U.S., celebrating the arrival of Spring with a carnival, live music and more. It concludes with the Ark-La-Tex Ambassadors BBQ Top: Horseshoe Casino’s “Million Dollar Wall” sports ten thousand 100 dollar bills. (Photo by Bob Corley)
Cook-Off, a competition BBQ event attracting top teams in the South. Barksdale, the country’s oldest Air Force base, is in Shreveport-Bossier. The Barksdale Air Force Base Airshow features the world’s top aerobatic teams including the Navy’s Blue Angels and the Air Force Thunderbirds. The history of the base is showcased at the recently renovated Barksdale Global Power Museum. Each Memorial Day Weekend, the sounds of zydeco music and the scent of boiling crawfish drift through the air during the Mudbug Madness Festival. Named one of the “Top 100 Events in North America” by the American Bus Association, the festival includes outstanding Louisiana cuisine, three stages of live music and kids’ activities, and more than 80,000 pounds of boiled crawfish! One of most anticipated events each June is the Let the Good Times Roll Festival, a celebration of black history and culture featuring old-school, gospel, R&B and funk music and an array of food vendors and art booths. The event was named a “Top 20 Event” by the Southeast Tourism Society. Other events include the Cross Lake Flotilla, a gathering of hundreds of boaters, and the Sunflower Trail and Festival in nearby Gilliam, featuring arts and crafts, live entertainment, food, and the chance to explore the giant fields of sunflowers that bloom along Highway 3049. In summer, local farmers’ markets open Above: The Mudbug Madness Festival features plenty of crawfish. (Photo courtesy Shreveport-Bossier CVT) www.primemontgomery.com | July 2015
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A group gathers at the spot where Elvis Presley played at the Municipal Auditorium. Photo by Bob Corley.
including the enormous Shreveport Farmers’ Market with hundreds of vendors selling farm-fresh produce, locally made arts and crafts, ready-to-eat artisan foods, live music and cooking demonstrations. The recently-opened Benton Farmers’ Market takes place each Sunday afternoon in June and July in downtown Benton. September provides a range of events, from the Pioneer Heritage Festival in Greenwood to the Highland Jazz and Blues Festival in Columbia Park. The Red River Revel Arts Festival is the most-anticipated event in the fall, an enormous, eight-day outdoor event with hundreds of visual artists and three stages of non-stop live music.
Craft beer fans will like to sample the brews created by Great Raft Brewing, Shreveport’s first craft brewery and tasting room, named “One of 10 U.S. Breweries to Watch in 2015” by Gourmet magazine. October brings Shreveport-Bossier’s largest craft beer event, BREW: A Premier Beer Tasting, featuring more than 150 beers, live music and food from some of the area’s top restaurants. Also in October is the Louisiana Film Prize, a weekend-long film festival with audiences voting to determine the winner of a $50,000 grand prize. The State Fair of Louisiana, held in October and November, has received national acclaim for its unusual variety of food vendors and free entertainment, along with all of the delights of a State Fair midway. The 2015 State Fair of Louisiana will be held Oct. 22-Nov. 8. As the year winds down there’s the Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights, Christmas in Roseland (a lights extravaganza at the Gardens of the American Rose Center), and the Christmas on Caddo Fireworks Festival. “Louisiana’s Other Side” is an oft-used term describing Shreveport-Bossier’s location in the state, and its unique combination of Cajun and Creole culture and Texas cowboy heritage. From the glittering excitement of the casinos to the wonderful array of festivals, the mouth-watering local cuisine, fantastic shopping and numerous outdoor activities and attractions, Shreveport-Bossier has all the necessary ingredients for a memorable getaway. Chris Jay is PR Manager of Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau. For more information visit www.shreveport-bossier.org.
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July 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com
FEATURE
Effortless Summer Soiree’
W
ith warm weather there is much to celebrate as summer parties move into full swing. As you plan to entertain this season, Stephen Cardino,VP and Fashion Director for Home at Macy’s, has some helpful tips to host an unforgettable bash that is both stress-free and fun for everyone. Set the scene Here are some ideas for setting the scene, by infusing the season’s trends and the best that summer has to offer.
Blue is a hot hue this year and there are many ways to apply the color of the sea to your summer table scape. For a subtle look, try soft blue dinnerware layered with neutral table linens and flatware. To achieve a bolder statement, choose plates and serve ware in indigo or with patterns of dots and stripes. Glassware in a variety of blues and greens can also enhance your table. n
n Surface texture is just as important as pattern. Choose a table runner and napkins made of linen, a popular material right now, to serve as the foundation of your space. Add charm and interest with textured glassware, such as ones with etching, facets or bubbling. n Whether dining al fresco or indoors to beat the heat, fresh flowers are a must for the summer season. For a colorful option, set single flowers in a suite of glass bottles - a little goes a long way. Full flowers, like peonies and dahlias, are great for this, or try a variety of white flowers placed in low,
white ceramic urns for a monochromatic pairing.
n For easy refreshments, use glass beverage servers, since they allow guests to help themselves. Fill one with water and citrus slices, another with lemonade or iced tea, and the last with sangria or punch. Be sure to set out a large bucket of ice and glasses with your beverage servers.
Serve sensational sips If you’re looking for cocktail ideas to kick off summer celebrations, here are some tips for easy refreshments that are perfect for summer and sure to satisfy. n To enhance your cocktails, use fresh summer produce - really ripe fruits and vegetables. Buy peaches, strawberries, rhubarb and other fruits to make an amazing punch, which is always a crowd pleaser.
The night before your party, use the largest container you have and fill it with water to make a giant ice cube. On the day of, make a concoction of herbs, fruits and vegetables with gin, or something light and botanical. Place the ice cube in a bowl and pour the punch mixture around it. The large ice cube will not melt down and dilute the punch, but will keep it cold and refreshing. It also serves as an eye-catching centerpiece that everyone at the party will talk about. n
n Throw leftover fruit, such as peaches or pineapple, on the grill for a light summer dessert - the perfect finale after a heavy meal.
Courtesy: Family Features. For more summer recipe ideas, videos and tips, visit macys.com/culinarycouncil. www.primemontgomery.com | July 2015
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TINSELTOWN TALKS
Julie
Newmar The Cat’s Meow By Nick Thomas
T
his summer Julie Newmar turns 82, but it seems like just yesterday she was prowling across our TV screens as the original Catwoman supervillainess in the ‘60s TV series “Batman.” In addition to her acting career, Newmar has long taken an interest in gardening, beauty, and health. “If something bothers me, I try to live on top of it,” the Hollywood beauty icon said from her home in Los Angeles. “Just let the joy in you come out and stay in love with life. That’s the secret to aging well.” Newmar also gives inspirational talks to women on how to enhance one’s overall image including tips on make-up, hair, dress and voice. “Beauty has a lot of connotations to it and loving yourself is a very good place to start,” said Newmar. “We can all be more marvelous.” Aside from Catwoman and numerous other TV roles throughout her career, Newmar appeared in more than 30 films, working with such greats as Kirk Douglas, Gregory Peck and James Mason.
“With the right attitude, you can be a great beauty at any age.” 30
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tribute.“That’s so endearing.” In “Mackenna's Gold” (1969), she was cast as a young NaNewmar is now endearing herself to another generation tive American girl. of fans since the “Batman” TV series was released on DVD “I’m of Swedish descent, so having a Swedish girl play an last November – Indian could only after being held up have been done in for years by legal Hollywood 40 years wrangling. She also ago,” she said, recallrecorded commening an unexpected tary for the DVD’s visitor to the set. Special Features. “We spent two “Doing the intermonths on location view caused me to in Arizona and Utah. focus on what the At the time, Robert Catwoman characKennedy was runter meant for my ning for president life,” she said. “It’s and he and his entire really a joy to have entourage dropped created something in one night and had that people still dinner in a tent with remember me for. I us. I sat next to him never got any royaland remember his ties from the series, wife trying unsucbut the popularity cessfully to convince of the show over Gregory Peck to several generations read some poetry.” Eight years earlier, Julie Newmar on her 80th birthday at the Goo Salon with salon owner Molly Scargall. (Photo has more than paid me back.” in “The Marriagecourtesy Molly Scargall) As for her memoGo-Round,” Julie rable body-gripping Catwoman costume, Newmar said she was cast closer to her ancestry – as a teenage Swedish acquired the original “after a lot of hoopla,” and donated it to blonde bombshell attempting to seduce James Mason. “He was a glorious actor,” Newmar remembers, “extremely the Smithsonian Institution. “It was like a long-sleeved, long-legged leotard made from generous and helpful. He looked out for me in my close-ups, black Lurex,” she recalled. “It clung to the body, but was very making sure the light was on my face and shadows didn’t fall easy to get in and out of. It really looked smashing!” on me.” As she continues to share personal and general lessons But it was her role as the exotic feminine feline nemesis to of life and beauty tips on her web site, julienewmar.com, the ‘dynamic duo’ in some dozen “Batman” episodes where Newmar hopes her advice will help others to look and feel Newmar’s sex appeal sizzled on ‘60s TV screens. Her image “smashing,” too. still haunts many today. “The importance of looking and feeling well is clearly “I still get a lot of fan mail from men!” she said, quoting an important to an actor,” she says. “With the right attitude, you excerpt from an online post: can be a great beauty at any age.” “Julie Newmar is the fruit of one of those moments when God must have thought ‘I’ll give them a girl who will define Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery, Ala., and female perfection so well, that they will always know what has written features, columns, and interviews for more than 600 beauty is all about.’” magazines and newspapers. “Oh, my,” she added, sounding quite touched by the
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GAMES ACROSS 1 Keyless 7 Top 13 Crude dudes 15 Some woodwind players 16 How to start working on a 35-Across 18 Missile spot 19 Socially awkward type 20 Fish-eating eagle 21 Talking Trans Am of classic TV 22 Speak incessantly about 24 Spenser's "The __ Queene" 28 Some elimination rounds 30 Quite a lot 31 Kirsten of "Melancholia" 32 Otologist's concern 35 Pastime that will celebrate its 100th anniversary on 12/21/2013 38 Saturn model until 2007 39 Pet sounds 40 Nostrils 41 Name of eight English kings 42 Lunch, say 43 It may be used after a break
46 Requisite 48 Quite a while 49 Not even semi-pro? 50 Vocalist James 54 How to finish working on a 35-Across 58 Corrida figures 59 Gets in order 60 Tense 61 Satisfies the munchies DOWN 1 Nails, as a test 2 Doorman's cry 3 Roundish 4 Literary sea captain 5 Porthos, to Aramis 6 Gentle giant in "Of Mice and Men" 7 Crude meas. 8 __ cit. 9 Crude fleet 10 Seize 11 Pool worker 12 Chief Ruhr River valley city 14 Discontinued depilatory 15 Long-established 17 Inventor of the 35-Across 21 Branches on some trees
22 Metal fastener 23 Adjusted (to) 24 Central points 25 High style 26 Avenger John Steed's alma mater 27 Thing in court? 29 Limits 31 __ prize 32 Biblical reformer 33 Brown or golden drinks 34 Take ten 36 Made an exit 37 Microwave 41 Was indirect 42 Keep from getting out of control 43 Took care of 44 Former Argentine ruler 45 Longest river in France 47 Catchall abbr. 49 Sounds of contentment 50 Woolly females 51 Composer who was a CBS reporter 52 Veracious 53 Threatening slitherers 55 Centimeter-gram-second unit 56 Shoe part 57 __ Balls: Hostess snack food
(c) 2015 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.
Answers on page 35. 32
July 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com
MEDICARE
Marci’s Medicare Answers Dear Marci, I was in the hospital recently, but my hospital visit was covered under Part B instead of Part A. Someone told me that I was probably under observation during my hospital stay. What is an observation stay? — Robin Dear Robin, During an observation stay, your doctor decides to keep you in the hospital to monitor your conditions and determine whether you need to be admitted as an inpatient. Observation stays are considered outpatient hospital stays, and most of the services you receive are covered under Part B; inpatient hospital stays are covered under Part A. The costs associated with an outpatient observation stay are different than those associated with an inpatient stay, and you may have higher out-of-pocket costs for services received during an observation stay. Observation stays can last just a few hours or longer. If your doctor expects you to need care for an amount of time that crosses two or more midnights in the hospital, the doctor should formally admit you as an inpatient. If you are under observation as an outpatient, you will have two types of costs after you meet the Part B deductible.You will typically pay a copay for each medical service you receive in the hospital, which will vary in cost depending on the service.You must also pay a 20 percent coinsurance for physician services you receive as an outpatient. Observation stays can look and feel just like inpatient stays. Know that staying overnight in the hospital does not make you a hospital inpatient.You only become an inpatient after a doctor signs an order to formally admit you to the hospital.You can ask your doctor at the hospital whether your status is inpatient or whether you are receiving observation care.Your status may change during your stay, so it is important to ask regularly. Dear Marci, I have a Medicare Advantage HMO plan that includes prescription drug coverage. Do I also have to have a Part D plan? — Rebecca Dear Rebecca, No, if you have a Medicare Advantage HMO plan
that includes prescription drug coverage, you do not have to sign up for a separate, stand-alone Part D plan. There are two ways to get Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage.You can enroll in a standalone Part D plan that works with your Original Medicare coverage to pay for your prescription drugs, OR you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage in the plan. Consider your health care and drug needs when choosing how to get your prescription drug coverage.You can contact 1-800-Medicare to discuss your prescription drug coverage and what plans are available in your area. Dear Marci, I receive $1,300 each month from my Social Security retirement benefits. This is my only source of income, and I have about $10,000 in assets. Do I qualify for Extra Help? — John Dear John, Yes, based on your income and assets, you will likely qualify for Extra Help. Extra Help is a federal assistance program that helps to pay Medicare prescription drug costs for people with limited incomes. In 2015, individuals who receive less than $1,471 in income each month and have up to $13,640 in assets should qualify for Extra Help. Married couples who receive less than $1,991 in income each month and up to $27,250 in assets should qualify for Extra Help. Know that if you have Medicaid, a Medicare Savings Program, or receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you should automatically receive Extra Help. You can apply for Extra Help online by visiting www.ssa.gov. You can also apply by calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or by visiting your local Social Security office. 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 subscribe to “Dear Marci,” MRC’s free educational e-newsletter, visit http://action. medicarerights.org/resources. Click on Newsletters. www.primemontgomery.com | July 2015
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16th Annual “Maine Event”
Montgomery Area Council On Aging (MACOA) Lobster-inspired fundraiser!
LIVE or steamed lobsters $30! Prepaid only. Order by August 14th. Pick-up date Friday, August 21 Pick-up locations 1) Main office, 115 E. Jefferson St. 2) E. Montgomery, Atlanta Highway near Y’s Up & Somerset (look for the tent) Order by phone, (334) 263-0532 or on-line at www.macoa.org For more information visit MACOA Facebook page,.
• An Evening of Acoustic Music • Country, Folk, Blues, Americana
Joe Thomas, Jr. Guitar Pull Tuesday, July 21, 7-9 p.m. Cloverdale Playhouse
featured artists
• Davis Raines (Nashville) • Pamela Jackson (Nashville) • Bob Corley (Montgomery)
$10 at the door (includes complimentary beverage) 960 Cloverdale Rd. • 334-262-1530 • www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org 34
July 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com
Send an e-mail to primemontgomery@ gmail.com with this page number to enter the drawing for a $25 Gift Certificate from Mr. Gus’ Ristorante.
www.primemontgomery.com | July 2015
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July in the River Region Volunteers Needed The Montgomery Area Council on Aging (MACOA) coordinates volunteer needs for various organizations and agencies. Current needs include: — Respite Care: a few hours of companionship for hospice patients — Medical Outreach Ministries (M.O.M.): office help Mon, Wed, Friday — Habitat for Humanity: office help Mon-Thurs, 9 am-4 pm — Old Alabama Town: guides and reception workers — Baptist East & Baptist South: help at the reception desks — John Knox Manor: conduct activities with residents (quilting, entertaining, setting up a game of Bingo, etc.) In Montgomery County contact Allison Shehane, 334-7827254 or e-mail ashehane@macoa.org. In Autauga and Elmore Counties contact Shirley Stewart, 334-595-0841 or e-mail sastewart@macoa.org. Children’s Matinees Thurs, Fri. Capri Theatre, Old Cloverdale. July 9 - 10: The Lego Movie (PG) July 16 - 17: Despicable Me 2 (PG) July 23 - 24: Ernest & Celestine (PG) July 30 - 31: Box Trolls (PG) For more information, call 334-262-4858 or visit www.capritheatre.org. For information call 334-262-4858 or visit www. capritheatre.org.
Retirement Lifestyle Showcase July 16. CaraVita Village, 4000 Fieldcrest Dr., Montgomery. Tours, live music, refreshments. For info call 334-284-0370 or e-mail Liz Haupt-Johnson, elizabeth@caravitavillage.com.
Jasmine Hill Gardens/Museum Fri, Sat, Sunday. Wetumpka. 20+ acres of year-round floral beauty and classical sculpture. Tours available for groups of 20 or more. For information call 334-2635713 or visit www.jasminehill.org/.
Jam Session July 11, 9 am-noon. Old Alabama Town. For information call 334-240-4500 or visit www.oldalabamatown.com/calendar-ofevents. 2nd Saturday July 11. Riverfront Park. Noon-9 pm. Live entertainment, games, food vendors. For information call 334625-2100 or visit www.funinmontgomery.com.
Singer/Songwriters In-the-Round July 21. Joe Thomas, Jr. Guitar Pull 7-9 pm, Cloverdale Playhouse, Old Cloverdale. Nashville’s Davis Raines & Pamela Jackson and Prime publisher Bob Corley perform their music, discuss their songs. $10 (includes complimentary beverages). For information call 334-262-1530 or visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org.
“Dinner with Friends” Theatre Through July 28. Winner of the 2000 Pulitzer Prize in Drama. Cloverdale Playhouse. Thur-Sat 7:30 p.m. Sun 2 p.m. For information call 334-262-1530 or visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org/dinner-with-friends.
Summer Dance Seminar July 20-August 3. Alabama Dance Theatre. Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery. Intermediate and advanced dancers, July 20-August 3. For information call 334-241-2590 or visit www. alabamadancetheatre.com.
EastChase Farmer’s Market Saturday through Oct. 10. Locally grown produce, gift items, entertainment, fitness classes, cooking demonstrations. For information call 334-279-6046.
Grief/Brievement Support Group Wednesdays. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Hosted by Hospice of Montgomery, 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. Services include iindividual/family counseling, grief/bereavement literature. For information call 334-279-6677 or visit. www.hospiceofmontgomery.org.
Docent-lead History Tours (FREE) Saturdays. AL Dept of Archive & History. Saturdays, 1-2 p.m. No pre-registration required. Travel through Alabama’s past. For information call 334-242-4364 or visit www.museum. alabama.gov/.
Camelias: Our State Flower - “Lunch & Learn” Aug. 5, Noon-1 pm. Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Ave., Montgomery. Bring a sack lunch. Drinks provided. Capital City Master Gardeners Association. For information contact Montgomery Co. Extension Office, 334-270-4133.
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July 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com
PRIME DIVERSIONS
Recent dvd releases
The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel,The DUFF & Ex Machina The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (PG) In 2011, the first film arrived as a lovely dramedy about a handful of elderly Brits finding a surprising second go-round in the dilapidated remnants of a once-elegant Indian hotel, run by a charmingly earnest young fellow (Dev Patel). Judi Dench, Bill Nighy, Maggie Smith and Celia Imrie headed the stellar cast of seniors whose final fling wound up opening new doors.This one continues their journeys with Patel about to marry, and hoping to expand to a second property with outside financing, and Smith’s guidance.That adds David Strathairn as the potential backer and Richard Gere, who may or may not be visiting the property as his covert agent. As sequels go, this one carries the banner fairly well, with less drop-off than most. Director John Madden and writer Ol Parker return for these further adventures of their original cast. Smith’s tart one-liners are among the highlights. She certainly delivers most of the film’s biggest laughs. Other subplots swirl among the residents, along with Patel’s personal and career crises. Again, India provides a wonderful backdrop of sights and sounds for this deep and gifted cast. Older viewers will be particularly delighted by the chance to see these veterans thrive in roles that defy their ages, without tilting too far into fantasy. No over-the-hill action heroes making one too many trips to the well; just relatable people trying to make the best of whatever time they have left. And that’s a good idea at any age.
The DUFF (PG-13) The series of caps is not a typo.The title is an acronym for Designated Ugly Fat Friend —supposedly the member of a group that is less attractive, and therefore more approachable, than his/ her higher-on-the-social-pecking-order friends.The term has supposedly been around for a while.This teen comedy is adapted from a novel about a girl who discovered she’s been one. Bianca always knew her two lifelong friends Jess and Casey (Mae Whitman, Skyler Samuels, Bianca A. Santos, respectively) were much hotter, but the shock of learning that their troika exemplified a cultural cliche was unbearable. Many changes ensue...as they must before the essential round of VALUABLE LESSONS and assorted healings can relieve the cast and audience from their assorted plights. Such films can provide useful tools in developing a viable sense of self for adulthood. Each generation probably learns best from seeing its angst handled by its own peers via the likes of The Breakfast Club,Clueless, Heathers, Mean Girls, Juno, etc. Screenwriters — many of whom probably weren’t very popular in high school — purge their demons by penning comedies about how false and ephemeral that oppressive caste system really was, thereby
empowering, or at least comforting, those who feel anywhere from invisible to underappreciated to bullied. The genre thrives on the idea of “it gets better,” which ideally will deliver a reality check for the cool kids, and a Mark Glass lifeline for the rest. In that regard, the emotional benefits from such films can exceed their entertainment value. This one’s less funny than most of its ancestors. But if it helps a bunch of our current tweens and teens cope with their brand of growing pains, it will have done its job. If you’re older, you’ve probably seen better.The deservedly ubiquitous Allison Janney delivers the film’s funniest moment in the early going.The rest of the laughs are on the sparse and mild side. Ex Machina (R) OK, computer and conspiracy folk, here’s another glimpse into a potential scary future once our machines become upgraded to self-awareness.We see none of the Terminator-style mayhem here; just a quiet little peek at whether our species will create its own extinction from unintended consequences of inherent inventiveness and curiosity. Domnall Gleeson is a mid-level programmer for a super-genius Oscar Isaac’s cutting-edge tech empire. Winning an in-house lottery gets him an unprecedented invitation to his boss’ isolated, impregnable home. Once there, he learns he’s there to field-test whether the wizard’s new and gorgeous robot “Ava” (Alicia Vikander) is truly sentient, or just masterfully programmed to mimic human thought and behavior more thoroughly than all earlier attempts at Artificial Intelligence. The tone is one of creepy suspense, as no one can be sure about what’s actually going on. Is Isaac a visionary hero or a psycho? Which character is, or should be, a threat to whom? Compared to Her, in which lonely nerd Joaquin Phoenix found cyberpal Scarlett Johansson’s disembodied persona vastly preferable to the company of flesh-and-blood alternatives, this one’s quite Hitchcockian.The honcho’s home is an ultramodern cross between fortress and laboratory in a sylvan setting.Time and space seem to flirt with reality, rather than follow it, dangling far more possibilities between lines of dialog than revealed within them, making the experience as disorienting for the viewers as for the guest of honor. The plot choices vary from predictable to baffling, adding to the intended sense of Gleeson’s visiting a futuristic version of Lewis Carroll’s rabbit hole. The film shows how fuel for fears about our looming, self-inflicted obsolescence can come in all shapes, sizes and tones. Remember, just because you’re paranoid doesn’t mean the geeks and their machines aren’t really out to get you.
Mark Glass is an officer and director of the St. Louis Film Critics Association. www.primemontgomery.com | July 2015
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OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Skunked
“Whoop!,” he said, jerking his arm up swiftly, driving the crankbait’s pair of treble hooks home. “There he is!” Even on ultralight tackle the fish was boat side in moments. They rarely fished the pond anymore, and the growing pile of small bass flopping in the bottom of the cooler proved it. “I wish we got down here more,” he said, dropping another 10-incher into the Igloo. “It’s the only way we’ll ever get any size on these bass.” His father grunted an “uh-huh” in agreement, felt a light tap on his rod, but was unsure of its origin. When the line began moving slowly away he set the hook in one smooth motion. In short order he silently added another bass to the cooler. “You okay, Pop?” his son asked, casting to the edge of the lily pads. “You been pretty quiet.” Fishing had always been “their thing” and it all started in that very pond. From the boy’s first bream on a Snoopy pole, through those tough teenage years when they fished every weekend, they always came back to fishing, together, even when things were difficult, like the first time he went out for high school baseball but didn’t make the cut. His mother had asked about tryouts when she picked him up from school, but he didn’t answer, didn’t want to talk about it. He stood waiting in the kitchen for his father when he arrived home from work. “Dad, we’re going fishing,” he said directly. His father started to object but noted the serious look on his son’s face. He glanced at his wife, who silently nodded to her husband in support. Pride – even a young man’s – is interwoven with his identity. He put down his briefcase and loosened his tie. “I’ll get my rods ready,” he said. Neither said a word during the hour’s ride to the pond. The boy was holding back, but perhaps the fish could coax it out of him, his father thought. A couple of bass into the evening it finally came out. “I didn’t make the team,” he said, aimlessly dipping his rod tip in the water. His father looked down at the ripples on the surface, then back at his son, considering the best response. What followed was a lesson neither would forget over the intervening years, about what happens after you don’t catch any fish – after you get “skunked” – and the 38
July 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com
importance of not giving up. “Hey, Pop. Are you okay?” He was still reminiscing on that decades-old conversation, how he’d bass fished in a suit that day, when the sound of his son’s voice brought him back to the present. “We need to fill this cooler before dark,” his son said, casting to a fallen tree. Before he could answer his son, he heard the doctor’s words, the ones he had yet to share with anyone. The three feet separating him from his favorite fishing partner might as well have been a thousand miles. His mouth was chalky and the words stalled. “I um, they um,” he stammered, the lump in his throat growing. “I’m done for today,” he said abruptly, laying down his rod. After a few moments, he mustered his strength. His son had always appreciated straight talk. “The tests showed the road’s gonna be a little longer than I thought,” he said. Everything stopped — the chorus of cicadas, the frogs, the light breeze stirring the trees. Even the cows drinking at pond’s edge stopped and looked up. Had a bare hook been dropped, the echo would’ve been heard for miles. His son swallowed hard. While his father detailed the options and favorable prognosis, the boy’s thoughts drifted. Over the years, time spent fishing with his father had provided countless opportunities for life’s lessons. He looked at his dad and narrowed his eyes. “You once told me that what mattered was what I did after I got skunked,” he said. “Dad, you just got skunked.” Remembering the conversation from years ago, but still struggling for direction, his father responded. “I just don’t know what comes next,” he said. A bass broke the surface near the boat, chasing a school of bait, the ripples expanding out over the surface of the waters. “You can start,” his son said flatly, “by picking up that rod.” Niko Corley spends his free time on the water or in the woods, and earned his charter boat license in 2012. He can be contacted at cootfootoutfitters@gmail.com.
Niko Corley
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