Mar2012PrimeMontgomery

Prime Celebrating Midlife and Beyond

March 2012

FREE

Secrets of

Montgomery

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I Married a Revolutionary INside Moussaka n Identity Theft n Things We Cherish n Medicare After 65 n Shrink Your Yard n

aFTER 15 YEARS, A Lost Guitar Comes Home

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March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

Table of Contents Features 11 Prodigal Guitar

Given up for dead after 15 years lost, a Montgomery man’s vintage guitar finds its way home, thanks to a national TV show.

By Willie Moseley

18 FIRST Lady of the revolution From a revolution in Latin America, to work at the UN, to a life in Paris, and eventually to Montgomery, nine decades have slowed her down a little, but have not dampened her sense of adventure.

By Jennifer Kornegay.

22 tax tips The Income Tax filing deadline has been moved, plus there’s free help out there to assist in chasing down those elusive tax savings.

27 secrets of san francisco Bypass the standard tours for a trio of novel, off-beat trips to experience a seldom-seen side of San Francisco.

By Andrea Gross

Columns/Other 7 A Gracious Plenty Ricotta-stuffed eggplant yields a

21 Money Wise What to do if you find yourself a victim of identity theft. Final of three parts. By Alan Wallace

8 Medicare Special How working past 65 affects your

24 Around Montgomery Here’s another bird to find.

Just don’t get wet in the process. By Jake Roberts

satisfying vegetarian moussaka. By Carron Morrow Medicare coverage. By Bob Moos

10 In Every Life What your kidneys do and why they’re vitally important to your overall health. By Arlene Morris 14 Social Security Answers to the most-asked questions that come in to the Montgomery SS office. By Kylle’ McKinney 15 Yard n’ Garden Moving to a smaller home doesn’t mean giving up your favorite plants. By Ethel Boykin 16 Moving Free Recent research into the value of exer-

cise for diabetics (and everyone else!). By Mirabai Holland

17 Off the Beaten Path The things we cherish have their own stories that carry special meaning. By Niko Corley

25 Military Financial Field Manual A special publication to assist military personnel and families.

26 Answers to Medicare Questions 29 Crossword & Sudoku 30 Prime Diversions This month’s DVD reviews include a J. Edgar Hoover bio-pic and a delightful animated sequel.

By Mark Glass 32 March Calendar of Activities

March 2012

www.primemontgomery.com | March 2012

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Editor’s Note

Prime

Celebrating Midlife and Beyond

I met Henrietta MacGuire in 1976, when I was 24 and she was in her mid-50s.

I liked her immediately, taken with her wit, knowledge, and easy sophistication.

As a Baby Boomer, I had many smart, determined girlfriends who, like me, were the lucky beneficiaries of the positive social changes for women that began in the ‘60s.

It seems silly now, but when I first started Huntingdon College, females were not allowed to wear pants in Flowers Hall.

By my sophomore year, that had changed.

Needless to say, we all loved the fact that our generation was on the cutting edge of change.

What struck me about Henrietta was that, despite coming-of-age in the 1930s, she shared my generation’s “sky’s-the-limit” enthusiasm. She seemed remarkably young -- in heart, mind, and spirit.

Conversations we’ve shared, over the years, range from politics (who’s the best candidate?), to families (how to raise bi-lingual children?), to new businesses we could devise (I won’t repeat some of those wacky schemes). The banter was fun and never boring, despite the difference in our years.

Today, some three-and-a-half decades later, Henrietta MacGuire’s kind heart, effortless charm, and mischievous sense of humor have only gotten better with age.

In this month’s Prime, writer Jennifer Kornegay gives readers a more proper introduction to Henrietta Longstreet MacGuire. From Costa Rica’s one-time First Lady, to living and working in Paris, to meeting the U.S. President, Henrietta’s life has been and continues to be storied. Jennifer’s First Lady of the Revolution (p. 18) is definitely a must-read.

Author and journalist Willie Moseley’s strange-but-true tale of a lost and found Montgomery guitar is a wonderful example of first, being in the wrong place at the wrong time, then – more than a decade later – being in the right place at the right time. If you’re familiar with American Pickers on The History Channel – or just like a well-told story with a happy ending – don’t miss Prodigal Guitar (p. 11).

For a fresh look at the City by the Bay, Andrea Gross’ Secrets of San Francisco highlights a trio of city tours designed to show a different side of this enchanting American city.

A Gracious Plenty columnist Carron Morrow cooks up a Mediterranean delight this month with Moussaka (p. 7). Carron’s recipe is a meatless version of the traditional favorite, but every bit as filling and tasty as it’s heavier counterpart. Eggplant never had it so good.

Writer Niko Corley shares stories of some favorite tools and outdoor equipment in this month’s Off the Beaten Path (p. 17). Not the shiniest new gadgets or even the most outstanding performers, Niko reminds us that some tried-and-true favorites are dear-to-heart because of the cherished memories they represent.

The March issue is chock-full of tips from local columnists with information you shouldn’t overlook, like Alan Wallace’s last-of-three columns on ID Theft/Cyber Security (p. 21); Arlene Morris valuable insights on kidney health (p. 10); Kylle’ McKinney’s answers to questions on Social Security (p. 14); and Ethel Boykin’s suggestions for downsizing your yard (p. 15).

I hope you enjoy your Prime!

Sandra

Email me at: primeeditor@gmail.com Sandra Polizos Editor 4 March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

If you’re 50+ and on Facebook, become a fan of PRIME Montgomery!

Montgomery

March 2012,Volume 2, Issue 11 PUBLISHER Bob Corley, primemontgomery@gmail.com EDITOR Sandra Polizos, primeeditor@gmail.com ART DIRECTOR Callie Corley, primemagdesign@gmail.com WRITERS Andrea Gross, Jennifer Kornegay, Bob Moos, Willie Moseley CONTRIBUTORS Ethel Boykin, Tina Calligas, Niko Corley, Mark Glass, Mirabai Holland, Kylle’ McKinney, Arlene Morris, Carron Morrow, Jake Roberts, Alan Wallace PHOTOGRAPHERS Bob Corley, Heath Stone INTERN Meagan Ashner SALES Bob Corley, 334-202-0114, primemontgomery@gmail.com Stephanie Crompton 334-462-1240 stephaniecrompton7@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 2012 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 Vitamins That May Strengthen Older Brains A new study has found that higher blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids and four different vitamins are linked to better mental function in older adults.

According to Neurology®, researchers at the Oregon Health and Science University performed brain scans and mental function tests and measured blood levels of certain nutrients on a group of men and women whose average age was 87.

Participants with high levels of vitamins B, C, D and E in their blood did better on cognitive tests and had larger brain volumes that those with lower levels. Omega-3 levels were linked to

better cognitive functioning and to healthier blood vessels in the brain.

Participants who had high levels of trans fats in their blood, on the other hand, were more likely to have delayed mental functioning and smaller brain volumes. It wasn’t conclusive whether taking supplements of these nutrients would decrease the risk for dementia and other degenerative mental diseases.

However, researchers noted, "What's the harm in eating healthier? Fish, fruits, vegetables all have these nutrients, and staying away from trans fats is one key thing you can do."

10 Cancer Symptoms Women Should Not Ignore Pelvic pain and abnormal bleeding aren’t the only signs of gynecologic cancer. Experts at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center share other symptoms that are often overlooked.

1. Swollen leg. Typically, though, a swollen leg isn’t a sign of cancer unless

there’s also pain, discharge or other cervical cancer symptoms.

2. Abnormal vaginal bleeding. More than 90% of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer experience irregular bleeding.

3. Unexplained weight loss. Women who suddenly lose more than 10 pounds without changing diet or exercise habits should see their doctor.

4.Vaginal discharge colored with blood usually signals infection. But sometimes, it’s a sign of cervical or endometrial cancer.

5. Constantly needing bathroom breaks.

6. Loss of appetite or constantly feeling full. Appetite changes may be symptoms of ovarian cancer.

7. On going pain in the pelvis or abdominal area — including gas, indigestion, pressure, bloating and cramps — can signal ovarian cancer. And, constant

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pelvic pain or pressure can be a sign of endometrial cancer.

8. Belly bloat. A woman may have ovarian cancer if she continues feeling bloated for more than two weeks or after her period ends.

9. Constant fatigue. A little rest should typically cure fatigue, but see a doctor if fatigue constantly interferes with work or leisure activities.

10. Persistent indigestion or nausea can signal gynecologic cancers.

Having one or more of these symptoms doesn’t mean you have cancer, but if they last two weeks or longer, see your doctor.

Foods for Heart-Health Forget the oysters and the champagne. Susan Ofria, clinical nutrition manager at Gottlieb Memorial Hospital, says the real food of love is dark chocolate and red wine. “You are not even choosing between the lesser of two evils. Red wine and dark chocolate have positive components that are actually good for your heart,” says Ofria.

Red wine and dark chocolate with a cocoa content of 70% or higher contain resveratrol, which has been found to lower blood sugar.

Red wine is also a source of catechins, which could help improve “good” HDL cholesterol. Cocoa phenols contain flavonoids as long as dark chocolate with a high content of cocoa is used.

Potassium and High Blood Pressure A diet that includes natural sources of potassium is important in controlling blood pressure because potassium blunts the effects of sodium. The recommended daily intake of potassium for an average adult is about 4,700 milligrams per day.

But potassium should be considered as only part of your total dietary pattern.

Factors such as salt intake, amount 6

March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

and type of dietary fat, cholesterol, protein and fiber, as well as minerals such as calcium and magnesium may affect blood pressure.

Potassium-rich foods include: n sweet potatoes n potatoes n greens n spinach n mushrooms n lima beans n peas n bananas n tomatoes, tomato juice and tomato sauce (look for low-sodium versions) n oranges and orange juice n cantaloupe and honeydew melon n grapefruit and grapefruit juice (talk to your healthcare provider if you're taking a cholesterol-lowering drug) n prunes and prune juice n apricots and apricot juice n raisins and dates n fat-free or low-fat (1 percent) milk n fat-free yogurt n halibut n tuna n molasses

Too much potassium can be harmful in many older persons and those with kidney disorders. As we get older, our kidneys become less able to remove potassium from our blood.

Therefore, consult your healthcare professional before taking any over-thecounter potassium supplement.

You should also ask your doctor before trying salt substitutes, because these contain potassium chloride and may be harmful for people with certain medical conditions.

American Heart Association Texting Hampers Language Research designed to understand the effect of text messaging on language found that texting has a negative impact on people’s linguistic ability to interpret and accept words.

The study was conducted by a linguistics master’s student as part of her thesis at the University of Calgary.

The study revealed that those who texted more were less accepting of new words, but those who read more books, magazines, and newspapers were more accepting of the same words.

Joan Lee, the study’s author, suggests that reading traditional print media exposes people to variety and creativity in language not found in the colloquial peer-to-peer text messaging used among youth or ‘generation text’.

University of Calgary

A family approach to Hospice Care.

Our Interdisciplinary Hospice Team unites physicians, nurses, CNAs, social workers and the clergy to provide the highest quality care for our patients, and their families.

Linda Goodwin, RN, Clinical Director 4150 Carmichael Court • Montgomery, AL 36106 334-270-2274

a gracious plenty

M-m-m...

Moussaka!

T

hough a traditional Greek dish, this month’s recipe was inspired by our Jewish friends who trusted us in the kosher kitchen of Agudath Synagogue.

We have prepared food for Bar and Bat Mitzvah’s, weddings and religious celebrations, leading us to develop dishes that fit within the tenants of the Jewish faith while celebrating a great food in a Carron Morrow generous way at a special event.

This is a vegetarian casserole, but the eggplant makes it taste as if it is full of meat.

Mother tried many recipes from cookbooks over the years,

Recipe: 2 cups buttermilk 3 medium eggplants 2 1/2 cups of self-rising flour Vegetable oil for frying (we use Crisco©) 2 lbs. of ricotta cheese Salt and pepper to taste Tomato Sauce (can make a day ahead): 1 medium onion 1 T. of minced garlic 1 T. olive oil 1 t. sweet basil 1 t. oregano 1 t. parsley flakes 2, 15 oz. cans crushed tomatoes 1 can tomato paste Sauté onion, garlic, and oil in a medium/heavy stockpot until onion is tender. Add other ingredients except tomato paste. Heat just to boiling, add

but after cooking in the synagogue, she, and our clients, liked her recipe the best.

Carron Morrow owns Personal Touch Events, a 35-year-old Montgomery-based company specializing in corporate and personal catering and event planning. Contact Carron at 334-279-6279 or by e-mail at carronmorrow@bellsouth.net, or visit www.onlineper-

the paste and simmer until thickened.

If too thick, add three or four tablespoons of water. (For a quicker solution buy two large jars of commercially available sauce, such as Paul Newman’s Primavera.)

Peel and slice the eggplant lengthwise into ¼” slices and place on several thicknesses of paper towel. Salt and pepper the slices and allow to set about 30 minutes.

Heat oil in a heavy skillet, enough to fry the slices. I use a medium heat.

Batter eggplant in buttermilk then dredge in flour on both sides. Fry until brown. Lay eggplant slices on layers of paper towel or a wire rack until slices are drip free.

Lay individual slices on a clean surface, spread about three tablespoons of ricotta cheese on each slice, and roll the slices.

Cover the bottom of a Pyrex dish

with your tomato sauce and lay the eggplant rolls close together until the dish is filled. Spread tomato sauce on top; just enough to cover.

Bake in the oven at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes.

Remove and sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top.

I use a brown sauce to top it off.

Brown Sauce: 1/2 stick butter 2 T. flour 2 C chicken broth Whisk ingredients until well-blended and thick. Ladle enough sauce on top of the casserole to cover it. Place in the oven for an additional 12-15 minutes.

A Caesar salad or steamed lemon butter broccoli florets compliment this delicious meatless meal. Enjoy! www.primemontgomery.com | March 2012

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feature

Working past 65? e r a ic d e M t u o b a w o n k to t Wha

By Bob Moos

I

t used to be that people usually retired when they turned 65. But that’s not as true anymore. Many baby boomers are working past what once was the traditional retirement age.

One reason is that Social Security now requires you to be at least 66 to collect your full retirement benefits. Retiring sooner means receiving a reduced Social Security payment.

A number of boomers are also postponing their retirement because the recession shrunk their nest eggs or because they simply prefer to spend their golden years on the job. Whatever the reason for continuing to work, you still need to consider Medicare as you approach your 65th birthday and qualify for the health care coverage. Those who plan to work past 65 should find out how that decision will affect their Medicare coverage.

First, you should contact your company’s human resources department to determine how your employer-provided insurance will fit with Medicare’s coverage.

Most people will want to sign up for Medicare’s Part A – the hospital insurance – when they turn 65, even if they have insurance through their job. That’s because there’s generally no premium.

Of course, as with any rule of thumb, there’s always an exception.

If you have a high-deductible plan with a health savings account, you should defer enrolling in Part A, since tax rules forbid you to add to your savings account if you’re in Medicare. When you should sign up for Medicare’s Part B – which covers doctor appointments and other outpatient services -- mostly depends on how large your employer is.

If your company has fewer than 20 em8

March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

ployees, Medicare will be your primary insurer when you turn doesn’t. If you opt for Medigap, you’ll have six months from 65, and your employer’s health plan will become your second- when you enroll in Part B to purchase a policy regardless of any health problem you may have and without paying a higher ary insurer. Medicare will pay first for your health care bills, and your employer’s group health plan will pay second. Which premium for it.

Don’t drop your retiree plan, however, without first finding means you’ll need to enroll in Part B to make sure your bills out from your company are covered. “...your company isn’t required to offer you how your decision would If your company any dependents on has 20 or more emthe same coverage you had as an employee.” affect your plan. ployees, your emOnce you cancel your coverage, you may not get it back. ployer will pay first and Medicare will pay second. So you can Also, if your job-related or retiree health plan includes predelay enrolling in Part B until you stop working. scription drug coverage, ask your human resources departOnce you do finally retire, you’ll have eight months to sign ment if it’s “creditable coverage.” That means it’s at least as up for Part B without a late enrollment penalty.

As you prepare to retire, check with your company’s human good as Medicare’s Part D drug coverage. If your employer or retiree drug insurance is considered creditable, you won’t resources department to find out whether you’ll have retiree have to pay a late enrollment penalty if you later join a Medihealth care coverage (some businesses still offer it) and excare Part D plan. actly how your plan will work. Medicare will always pay first, To learn more about how your employer or retiree health but your retiree plan may pay for some of your out-of-pocket plans work with Medicare, visit www.medicare.gov/publicacosts and for services Medicare doesn’t cover, like vision or tions and view the booklet “Medicare and Other Health Bendental care. efits:Your Guide to Who Pays First.” You can also call 1-800Whether you keep your retiree plan is up to you. Remem633-4227 to find out if a copy can be mailed to you. ber that your company isn’t required to offer you the same Understanding how your insurance choices fit together will coverage you had as an employee, so your benefits and premihelp you get the best care for your dollars. ums may change.

After comparing premiums and other out-of-pocket costs, Bob Moos is the Southwest Public Affairs Officer for the Centers for you may prefer to buy supplemental health insurance, often known as “Medigap” insurance, to help pay for what Medicare Medicare & Medicaid Services.

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in every life

The Kidney Connection

T

he Some meds are primarily kidneys filtered through the kidney, mainwhile others pass through tain a balance after being filtered by other between what methods. Problems can arise is taken into when some of the medicathe body, tion is not filtered, leaving what is allowed to remain in the body, more in the body than is necessary. The risk with aging and what is eliminated. They have the vital is that what was initially a normal dose of a medication purpose of keeping the amount of total then becomes an overdose over time as more of prior Arlene Morris body water, along with electrolytes and dose(s) are retained. This risk is compounded by the waste products, within normal ranges. number of medications.

They do this by a delicate and complicated balancing As we age we must be aware of the need to drink act of adjusting the plenty of fluids, to output of water, be aware of our “Aging greatly reduces our ability electrolytes and kidney function, waste products, to to tolerate dehydration or fluid overload.” and to discuss all changes in our daily medications with intake. If kidney funcour health care tion is impaired, the proper balance is disrupted, leading provider, not just prescription medications, but overto excess body water, electrolytes, and waste products the-counter and supplements as well. The filtration rate that can interfere with normal organ function or even of your kidneys can be determined by a component of lead to death. routine laboratory tests.

Aging greatly reduces our ability to tolerate dehydra- Arlene H. Morris, RN, Ed.D. is a Distinguished Teaching Associate Professor in the Auburn Montgomery School of Nursing, tion or fluid overload. Kidney size and function may where she enjoys teaching content regarding gerontology and begin to decrease when we reach our 40s, and can be professional nursing issues. Email her at amorris@aum.edu.

30% smaller by the time we reach our eighth decade.

The filtration rate of kidneys in an older person can be half that of a young adult. However, a greater threat occurs if the filtering function of the kidneys is abruptly reduced by renal disease or a sudden salt or water overload or deficit.

• Physical Therapy • The amount of circulating blood volume is critical to • Wellness/Personal Training • maintaining good kidney health. Think of blood volume as water in a garden hose. If the volume is greater than what the blood vessels and cells can manage, blood pressure (pressure in the garden hose) increases, causing hypertension.Vital organs can be damaged. But if the volume of blood is too low, as in hypotension, there may be insufficient flow to transport oxygen to the tissues of the body (a trickle of water in our conceptual garden hose).

If the kidneys do not receive enough blood volume to bring sufficient oxygen to the cells, the filtering process decreases because the cells cannot work without oxygen. Additionally, if the kidneys do not receive enough blood volume to create sufficient pressure in the renal capillaries, electrolytes and waste products may not be filtered through and out of the body. The result is that too much of one or more of the components may be 3442 Eastdale Circle • Montgomery, AL 36117 excreted.

(334) 279-5757 Kidney function can also be affected by medications.

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March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

feature

Lost, and Found:

The Prodigal Guitar

By Willie Moseley Photos by Heath Stone, Stone Images Photography

A

the Capri Theatre in Montgomery. His backup instrument decade-and-a-half is a long time for a stolen collectwas the green Gretsch, which he had acquired several years ible to be re-united with its owner, but such is the earlier. case for a “The theme vintage Gretsch that year was guitar and retired ‘Elvis Presley’,” money manager Young recalled, Richard Lee Young “so many people of Montgomery. came dressed as Young is a longElvis, and a lot time player and of them brought collector who has guitars as props. used many vintage We were playing guitars at his gigs. the last song of He has also been the night, and I involved with broke a string, and the Montgomery reached back for Jubilee Weekend my Gretsch …and for many years, my hand grabbed and has organized empty air. The numerous jam sesband looked at sions during that me, and the song annual event. died, like someAlthough his prione had shut off mary instrument a turntable. They is a “parts guitar” knew immediately that he assembled what had hapto his own specifipened.” cations, his backup The Elvis theme utility instrument meant that most has usually been attendees probone of his vintage ably thought instruments, one whoever stole the of which is a 1964 Gretsch was carGretsch model rying a prop guitar.

6118 “Double AnYoung filed the niversary” guitar in appropriate police a unique two-tone report, noting the green color. The guitar’s two-tone brand is often ascolor and its sociated with the cigarette burn, but late Chet Atkins, Montgomery musician and retired businessman Richard Young, cradling his long-lost Double nothing transpired. although Gretsch Anniversary Gretsch, also hosts a program on a local public radio station.

“No leads, no made many other suspects, nothing,” Young said. He placed a notice in an intermodels besides Atkins signature series guitars. Young’s national guitar magazine about the instrument being stolen, Double Anniversary was used when he bought it, and had to no avail. At one point, he figured that the statute of limitaa “distinguishing mark”, a noticeable cigarette burn, on the tions had expired on any criminal charges, and he disposed front of its body. of a photograph and other documentation regarding the In October of ‘96, Young’s band was playing a benefit for www.primemontgomery.com | March 2012

11

stolen Gretsch.

But in early 2011, Young was watching a show on the History Channel called American Pickers, which chronicles the adventures of two memorabilia hunters who seek out nostalgic items in out-of-the-way locations.

“These guys had an item they wanted appraised,” Young said of the episode, “and they took it to a small museum/ collection in upstate New York. When they asked the owner what the coolest thing was that he had, he said ‘I have a 1964 Gretsch Double Anniversary that I bought for $50 at a yard sale.’”

The owner pulled out the instrument, and the television camera zeroed in for a close-up of the guitar…which was a two-tone green color, with a cigarette burn on its top.

“I screamed at the top of my lungs,” Young recalled with a laugh, “and my wife and my daughter came running into the den, thinking the ceiling had caved in! It was unquestionably mine. I was originally elated, then concerned, but I did not have the documentation anymore.”

Then he remembered having listed the instrument in the guitar magazine. An inquiry to the magazine’s home office (in North Dakota) resulted in a quick response with the serial number, which had been published in the notice when the guitar had been stolen.

“Without the serial number, it would have been difficult for me to convince anyone that I could recognize it just because of the cigarette burn,” Young said of the magazine’s assistance.

He set about contacting the sheriff’s department in the county in New York where the museum/collection was located.

“They were very professional, but you could tell at the outset they didn’t believe a word I was saying,” Young

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March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

A bit worse for wear, the guitar eventually found its way back home. One unmistakable features of identification is the distinctive cigarette burn.

chuckled. “But then they went through the motions, connected the serial number, and took the guitar into possession.”

Young sent the law enforcement authorities a case, and they shipped the guitar back to its owner some fourteen and a half years after he had last played it.

When Young received the guitar, he noted that it had been strung left-handed, and it had more wear and tear than it had in the mid-‘90s. Accordingly, he has some restoration to do, but the effort will be worth it.

The Montgomery guitarist also tried to sympathize with the owner of the museum/collection, opining that the New York player had indeed acquired the guitar under normal/non-suspicious circumstances.

“I understand (the Gretsch) had been his primary instrument for seven or eight years,” Young said, “and it hurts my soul that I had to take it back from him, but it’s one of those situations where I can say I know exactly how he feels.”

“And if there’s a moral to this story,” Young said with a smile, “it’s to keep excellent documentation, take pictures, and never, ever throw them away.”

Willie G. Moseley writes for Vintage Guitar Magazine and is News Editor/columnist/photographer for The Tallassee Tribune. His most recent book is Smoke Jumper, Moon Pilot: The Remarkable Life of Apollo 14 Astronaut Stuart Roosa (Acclaim Press). www.primemontgomery.com | March 2012

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social security

Answers to YOUR Social Security Questions

T

his month I’m using questions submitted to me by the general public, along with my answers.

Question: I worked for the last 10 years and I now have my 40 credits. Does this mean that I can stop working and get the maximum Social Security retirement benefit when it’s time to retire?

Answer: The 40 credits are the Kylle’ McKinney minimum number you need to qualify for retirement benefits. However, we do not base the amount of the benefit on those credits; we base it on your earnings over your working lifetime. To learn more about Social Security retirement benefits and how your benefit amount is figured, read our online publication, Retirement Benefits, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10035.html.

Q: I want to estimate my retirement benefit at several different ages. Is there a way to do that?

A: Use our Retirement Estimator at www.socialsecurity. gov/estimator to get an instant, personalized retirement benefit estimate based on current law and your earnings record.

The Retirement Estimator, which also is available in Spanish, lets you create additional "what if" retirement scenarios based on different income levels and “stop work” ages.

Q: If both my spouse and I are entitled to Social Security benefits, is there any reduction in our payments because we are married?

A: No. We calculate lifetime earnings independently to determine each spouse’s Social Security benefit amount, and couples are not penalized simply because they are married.

When each member of a married couple meets all other eligibility requirements to receive Social Security retirement benefits, each spouse receives a monthly benefit amount based on his or her own earnings. If one member of the couple earned low wages or failed to earn enough Social Security credits to be insured for retirement benefits, he or she may be eligible to receive benefits as a spouse. Learn more about earning Social Security credits by reading our publication on the subject at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10072.html.

Q: I am receiving Social Security disability benefits. Is there a way for me to try working and not lose my benefits?

A: We have special rules called "work incentives" that help you keep your benefits and Medicare while you test your ability to work. For example, there is a “trial work period” during which you can receive full benefits regardless of how much you earn, as long as you report your work activity and continue to have a disabling impairment. For more information about work incentives if you collect disability benefits and want to return to work, we recommend that you read the leaflet, Working While Disabled-How We Can Help at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10095.html.

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March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

Q: I currently receive Social Security disability benefits. Is there a time limit on how long you can collect disability benefits?

A: Your disability benefits will continue as long as your medical condition has not improved and you cannot work. We will review your case at regular intervals to make sure you are still disabled. Learn more by reading our publication, Disability Benefits, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10029.html.

Q: I want to apply for Medicare Part B medical insurance this year.When is the deadline to apply?

A: If you didn’t sign up for Medicare Part B medical insurance when you first became eligible for Medicare, you now have an opportunity to apply — but time is running out. The deadline for applying during the general enrollment period is March 31. If you miss the deadline, you may have to wait until 2013 to apply. Medicare Part B covers some medical expenses not covered by Medicare Part A (hospital insurance), such as doctors’ fees, outpatient hospital visits, and other medical supplies. Lmore about Medicare by reading our electronic booklet, Medicare at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10043.html.

Kylle’ McKinney, SSA Public Affairs Specialist, can be reached in Montgomery at 866-593-0914, ext. 26265, or by e-mail at kylle.mckinney@ssa.gov.

Yard n’ garden

Retired? Retire that lawn mower!

M

time demands and costs involved in vorite plants they love and want to any of us in maintaining bigger property. Even if keep around where ever they live, our "Prime" you’re not selling your larger home but the huge garden that feeds the are realizing neighborhood is a thing of the past. and moving to a smaller place, but bigger is not always just want to have less upkeep, a Planting a tomato and a few pepbetter. So we’re selling pers can similar approaches can be taken. the larger Areas that once had grass can be give the home and converted to natural areas. Along farmer property with dense tree planting, a lawn can in you and movbecome half its current size. iming to Ethel Dozier Boykin Looking at a new way to scale mense smaller satisfac- down where you live may change yards. Not having to your eagerness to move. But if you tion. In mow grass, prune do plan on selling, consider improvfact, a shrubbery, fertilize and ing what you already have. Anytime small irrigate large grounds you work on the landscape of your garden looks good when we’re home you improve the curb appeal allows downsizing. But just beand increase the selling price.When for cause your next lawn potential buyers drive by and see water may be small does not features how nice the lawn looks, they asmean you have to give sociate that with the inside of the to be up on some of your home. favorites. Thankfully there are dwarf close to the seating area, and fish can be enjoyed from your chair. varieties of most plants.You can Ethel Dozier Boykin, a MontgomOnce I did an entire courtyard stop having grass, though, and that ery native, owns Art in the Garden, with a water garden and patio. The alone should be cause for celebraa landscape design and consulting owner loved the design, and would tion. company in the Capital City. Contact tell her friends she never had to In areas where grass once grew her at 334-395-5949, or by email at water her garden! you could have a patio for enteretheldozierboykin@yahoo.com.

The concept of thinking small taining. Along fences or walls fruit is taking hold, as people realize the trees can be grown and kept small for easy picking, or Camellias and other evergreens espaliered along Subscribe today to have their length. Many Encore Azalea's M M Secrets of co Prime Montgomery delivered San Francis come in small sizes and bloom off 40 40 Yea Years rs Mar Married ried to your home or office. and on during the year. Even the & & Still Valentin es butterfly bush, which is always Prime Montgomery is the I Ma rrie d ary overtaking the yard, comes in a Rev olut iona River Region’s premiere YEARS, aFTER four-foot size. r monthly magazine A Lost Guita Comes Home If you want to minimize bending celebrating the lives & times over as much as possible, containof those of us 50+. ers will keep plants at knee height.

Name______________________________________ Herb gardens also do extremely well in pots. Pot not only let you control the soil type (a real plus in Address ____________________________________ many areas of our city), but have City______________________ St. __ Zip _________ excellent drainage.Vegetables can Send $20 (check/MO) and this form to: be grown in almost limitless quanPrime Montgomery tities in raised wooden boxes, built 7956 Vaughn Road #144 to fit virtually any tight spaces.

Montgomery, AL 36116 Many people have a handful of fa-

Pr i m e Beyond Celebrating Midlife and

March 2012

ontgoMery

FREE

Pr i m e Celebrating Midlife and Beyond

February 2012 FREE

ontgoMery

INSIDE

n Moussaka Identity Theft Things We Cherish Medicare After 65 Shrink Your Yard

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4Tuskegee’s Aviat ion History 4 Seein g Stars (at Sea!) Sea!) 4Six Centuries of News

INSIDE

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n Bare Plants n Identity Theft German Chocolate (Dog) Stuffed Chicken Breast n A Healthy Heart n Know Your SSI

www.primemontgomery.com | March 2012

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moving free with mirabai

Exercise for Diabetes

A

recent discovery in the field of diabetes is poised to be a real game changer. We all know inactivity and excess body fat are risk factors for diabetes.

But did you know you have two kinds of fat, bad and good, white and brown?

White fat just sits there and is, well, just fat. It’s the bad fat. It puts you at higher risk for diseases like diabetes. Brown fat, on Mirabai Holland the other hand, doesn’t just sit there. It’s metabolically active. It burns calories, lots of calories. It’s the good fat. (Yes, there is such a thing as good fat.) And exercise can turn white fat brown!

A recent study* by the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School shows that exercise produces a hormone called Irisin that turns white fat brown. This may be a reason people who exercise regularly burn more calories, even hours after exercising, than sedentary people. Doesn’t that make you want to get up, make some Irisin, turn that white fat brown and burn a bunch of calories? If that’s not enough, here’s something else.

Exercise helps regulate blood glucose levels. It helps get excess glucose out of the blood and into the muscle tissue where it’s burned as fuel. It really works. In fact, many diabetics who exercise regularly find they need to take much less insulin. Some have even been able to eliminate their need for insulin with daily exercise.

So between the calorie-burning brown fat, and the sugarsucking effect on muscle tissue, I’d say exercise is a no-brainer for those of us at risk for diabetes. *www.nature.com/nature/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nature10777.html Mirabai Holland M.F.A. is a leading authority in the Health & Fitness industry and public health activist specializing in preventive and rehabilitative exercise. Her Moving Free® approach can be seen at www.easyexercisevideos.com

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March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

Exercise can help manage or prevent a wide range of health problems, including type 2 diabetes.

off the beaten path

The Stories in our Stuff T hose who know me best his eye. Its six-inch steel blade, hand-forged from a leaf spring by some desert blacksmith, sported plain would say I'm somewooden handles. The pommel - a small metal knob what sentimental, even - had been salvaged from the lever of some piece a bit old-fashioned, especially of machinery. Papa surely admired the craftsmanwhen it comes to my hunting ship as well as the edge on the slightly upturned and fishing gear. Maybe it's the blade. By the time it came into my possession, the writer in me, but I think the knife had seen decades of use. Judging from the things we own should tell a rust and accumulated dried fish scales, the knife story. had resided in Granny's tackle box for some time.

I celebrate the nicks and Niko Corley A little steel wool, honing oil and a couple of hours scars on a wooden stock and and the knife looked pretty good for 50 some odd the dull luster of a well-worn double gun's thumb years old. It holds an edge latch, badly in need of rewell and I keep it both bluing. I like the current hue sharp and well-oiled. Papa of my once bright orange “The rifle has claimed would be pleased. cap, sun-faded from years My father's first firearm afield chasing birds behind many squirrels, birds, was also my first gun. Dadgood dogs. I see no need turtles, a couple of dy has a tendency to hang to replace it. And, there's a beavers, a few possums, on to things, perhaps my feeling of satisfaction from several snakes and own sentimentality has its fooling a fish with a self-tied countless tin cans.” roots there, but the Remfly that cannot be dupliington .22 bolt-action he cated with a plastic worm. bought at 15 is one item My boat is another good I am quite glad he kept. example.

The rifle has claimed many squirrels, birds, turtles, Purchased by my maternal grandfather, Papou, a couple of beavers, a few possums, several snakes a quarter-century ago, the vessel is still in good and countless tin cans. Most would overlook it on shape. I've fished her from Destin to Lake Martin, and 25 years after she came into the family her ex- the gun rack for something flashier, probably with a cellent fit and finish are still evident. Papou admired synthetic stock. Its only remarkable attributes are its hair-splitting accuracy and its story. At 15, Daddy quality and only bought things that would last. He could not have known the many hunts on which he was hard on his equipment but took good care of all he owned. As a boy, I couldn't understand having would take that .22, much less his son's adventures to wash, with water, a vessel that was made for the decades later with the same rifle.

I wonder if he ever realized you could disassemwater. Now that she's mine, I'm glad Papou took ble it, stuff it into a backpack, and sneak it out of such care with her. I think of him each time I take the boat out; how he liked to cruise at half-throttle the house to go hunting when you were supposed and soak in the scenery, how he loved to be out on to be studying?

Regardless, it makes for a good story. the water together with his family. New boats don't come with such memories.

Driving cross-country from California to Troy on Niko Corley spends his free time hunting, fishing his way home from Korea in 1953, my other grand- and enjoying other outdoor activities. Contact him at father, Papa, stopped at a service station outside cootfootoutfitters@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter Las Vegas to refuel. A sheath knife on display caught @cootfootoutfitters.

www.primemontgomery.com | March 2012

17

feature

Henrietta MacGuire with a photo of herself and the future President of Costa Rica in exile in Mexico, late 1940s.

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March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

First Lady

of the

Revolution

“Y

By Jennifer Kornegay, Photos by Bob Corley

to a neighbor’s coffee-processing ou understand, of course, that I will not be limplant, MacGuire met Jose Figueres Ferrer. The meeting ited by the truth,” said Henrietta MacGuire.

So began my coffee date/interview with a dear evolved into a date, then a relationship, and finally marfriend and arguably our city’s most interest- riage in 1941. But their wedded bliss was interrupted.

After a radio speech in which he condemning coring citizen. The statement is ruption and communist a classic example of Macinfluences in the sitting Guire’s wit and the playful Costa Rican governbanter that encroaches on ment, Ferrer was arrested almost every conversaand imprisoned, and the tion with her. Despite the couple forced into exile in above assertion, the events Mexico. relayed here are accurate.

They returned to Costa Perfectly coiffed hair, Rica two years later, in timeless fashion sense and 1948, with plans for a a youthful sparkle that revolt, and the weapons lights her eyes make it to make it happen in-hand. difficult to discern her Led by Ferrer, the revoluage. In terms of relating tion was successful.

When to her, age becomes an it ended, he became Costa irrelevant number.

With husband “Don Rica’s president, and today Pepe” Figueres Ferre Yet her 93 years comr, Costa Rica, 1940s. is hailed as the Father of bined with an explorer’s Democracy in Latin America. soul have bequeathed upon her a vast array of remarkIt was not, however, a bloodless revolution, and Macable experiences and made her a walking treasure trove Guire is understandably reluctant to discuss it.

Its concluof knowledge, wisdom and amazingly good stories, all of sion was a seminal moment in her life. which she openly shares.

“The loss of life in such a small country was so painful,” Even her accessories open the door to some exotic she said. “The day the revolution ended and the killing tale; a lovely bangle bracelet on her wrist jingles and stopped so we could begin to rebuild and reconstruct jangles with coins from more than 20 countries she’s was a miraculous moment and almost magical. It restored visited. Point to one, and you’re off on an adventure. us to hope and to look to the future.”

So what’s this former First Lady of Costa Rica doing in When she speaks of the revolution, the toll it took on the Capital City? A better question may be, “What ISN’T her is obvious. Thoughts back to that grave time chase the she doing?” smile from her face almost instantly.Yet, she is proud of Born in Spartanburg, S.C., in 1918, MacGuire studied at what was accomplished.

Birmingham Southern College in the late ‘30s. After gradu“During this period, most of Latin America was ruled by ating she journeyed to Costa Rica to visit an aunt and dictators,” she said. “One of Ferrer’s beautiful dreams was uncle. World travel has always been a vital part of her life. to unite all of Latin America and South America into one “When I was younger, my older brothers were off in democratic country. He was a true visionary.” the Holy Land and in parts of South America,” she said.

She stressed another, equally important and joyful mo“When they wrote home, I was always fascinated by the ment in her life – becoming a mother. strange stamps on the envelopes. The idea that if you “To create another human and bring forth a child is so were able, you should travel, was very natural to me, so I profound,” she said.

“It’s something she’s done twice. Her just assumed that as soon as I finished school, I would go son is a successful businessman in Costa Rica, and her off somewhere.” daughter is Costa Rica’s Ambassador to the U.S. While in Costa Rica, on a visit with her aunt and uncle www.primemontgomery.com | March 2012

19

MacGuire makes it a point to meet and talk with young When her marriage to Ferrer ended in 1955, she moved to people regularly.

New York City and worked for the United Nations. She then “They are so full of life and offer different perspectives on left New York and moved to Paris. While there, she received so many things,” she said. a letter from a childhood “It’s rejuvenating to be friend. around them.”

“He was in Montgomery, While she appreciates and he said that the next the glories of youth, she’s time I was in America, I never been one to comshould look him up,” And plain about her age. Her she did. attitude, in fact, is quite the In 1965 she moved to opposite.

Montgomery and mar“If you are physically ried Dr. Hugh MacGuire. healthy, old age is a liberatEver since, she has been ing time,” she said. “Your leading little revolutions of kids are grown; your career her own in Montgomery, is done; you have the encouraging and supportluxury of pursuing interests ing positive changes by that don’t pay and don’t tirelessly volunteering for An expanding memento of world travels, her charm bracelet includes coins relate to anything in your non-profit organizations. from France, Germany, Israel, Poland, Greece, Great Britain and the U.S. life thus far.”

She lends her time and But how can one maintalents to the Montgomtain the physical health that ery Museum of Fine Arts, is an integral factor of the Booker T. Washington freedom she touts? magnet school and the “There are three secrets Council on Substance to good health. One, inherit Abuse to name a few. In good genes.You should be true MacGuire fashion, she very careful when choosrefers to her good work ing your parents,” she said. as “rescuing humanity.”

“Two, listen to the old adWhen she’s not saving the ages: eat right, don’t smoke world, she can be found at and exercise, exercise, the office of River Region exercise. Three, keep your Living magazine, formerly mind sharp by keeping it Montgomery Living, a pubstimulated. This will keep lication she helped found your mood up, and that in 1996.

With her daughter, the Costa Rican Ambassador to the U.S., and son-in-law, certainly affects your physiA keen observer of her presenting Diplomatic Credentials to President Obama. cal wellbeing.” surroundings, MacGuire She suggests plunghas seen great changes in ing into some interest or Montgomery since she hobby to keep discovering first came here, changes and reaching out. that make her proud to “That keeps you young,” call it home. she said. Following her own “When I first came here, advice, MacGuire is learning Montgomery was mired to speak Italian. in the past,” she said. “But Through everything she’s now the city is on the encountered and all she has verge of exploding into an seen, one important lesson entirely different approach stands out in her mind, a and the acceptance that lesson that leads to harwe are living in a global mony and one she hopes society. Young people I others will also take to heart. meet are intent on travel“I am continually struck by ing and learning about other how similar we all are fundamentally,” she said. “At our most cultures. I love seeing this beyond Montgomery, too, people basic level, we are all the same. I realize that this is truer and excited about learning other languages and doing business truer every day I live.” with other countries.”

20 March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

moneywise

Recovering From ID Theft

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hat should you do if you discover someone has stolen your identity? First, you should understand that it could take weeks or even months to deal with the crime and its complications. Therefore, you need to set your mind on working diligently through a long and involved process.

First - Verify that someone has Alan Wallace stolen your identity and assess the magnitude of the problem. n Contact the three credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian & TransUnion) to request a free copy of your credit report from each one. Let them know that you suspect ID theft and place a fraud alert with them. n Contact any creditor listed on the reports with whom you did not set up an account or from whom you have received a bill or statement with questionable transactions. Get copies of any records they have, such as account applications submitted by the thief. n Document everything that went on, as well as your

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conversations with all companies related to the ID theft. Keep copies of everything.

Second - Close the door on further damage. n Change your password or PIN on all accounts, whether you think they were breached or not. n Opt out of any programs with your creditors, financial institutions and the credit reporting agencies. Consider freezing your credit with the credit bureaus so that no one can open a new account in your name. n Close all bogus or breached accounts. n Secure your personal information. n Contest incorrect bills. n Stop the credit bureaus from posting and businesses from reporting fraudulent activity on your credit report.

Third - Notify the appropriate people. n File a police report. n File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. n Alert the U.S. Postal Service, the Social Security Administration and the Internal Revenue Service. If your passport is stolen, also alert the U.S. State Dept. n Talk to check verification companies. n Report stolen cards, checks, etc. n Alert all of your creditors.

Fourth - Seek legal advice.

If you have not been a victim of ID theft, and you want to protect yourself against the possibility, what should you do?

While there are businesses offering protection, sometimes with guarantees, you can probably defend yourself without having to pay anyone a fee. Here’s how.

First, follow the advice offered in my columns that appeared in the two prior issues.

Second, contact each of the credit reporting agencies once a year to get a free credit report. Just go to www.annualcreditreport.com (NOT www.freecreditreport.com). If you get a report from each agency annually, one every four months, you can self-monitor the activity taking place under your name.

Third, unless you expect to apply for a new credit account somewhere, freeze your credit with the three agencies. This should prevent anyone from establishing a new account in your name. If you need to open a new account, lift the freeze temporarily until your application is approved.

While this article provides counsel for dealing with ID theft after you have been victimized, it is clearly better to prevent such fraud from happening in the first place.

For further information on identity theft, please see: http:// ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/ Alan Wallace, CFA, ChFC, CLU is a Senior Financial Advisor for Ronald Blue & Co.’s Montgomery office, 334-270-5960, alan.wallace@ronblue.com www.primemontgomery.com | March 2012

21

feature

Money-$aving Tax Tip$

W

ho isn’t looking to save a little money these days? Here are some easy ways you can save money on preparing your taxes, as well as ways you might be able to pay out a little less.

IRS Free File: More Savings, Less Taxing Looking for a fast, easy and free option to do your taxes?

IRS Free File allows everyone to prepare and e-file their federal tax returns for free.

And, the step-by-step, brand-name software offered by IRS’ commercial partners helps you find the tax breaks you are due.

Each of the approximately 20 private-sector partners tailor their offerings based on criteria such as income, age or state residency.

If you need help finding a Free File match, just select the “get help finding a Free File company” as your option. Simply enter a little information about yourself and the matches will appear. Some also offer state returns for free or for a fee. n While all the companies have different criteria, if you made $57,000 or less in 2011 and that’s 70 percent of us - you will be eligible for at least one free tax software program. n If your income was higher than $57,000, you can still prepare and e-file your return for free by using Free File Fillable Forms. This is the electronic version of IRS paper forms. It’s more basic and is probably best for people comfortable preparing their own paper tax returns. It does not support state tax returns.

Just go to www.irs.gov/freefile to get started.

Organize Records The IRS recommends keeping all tax-related documents for three years, in case of an audit.

Keeping track of income-related documents can help you take full advantage of deductions available to you. If you don’t have the information, you

22

March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

might be losing out on money.

What should you have handy when it’s time to fill out this year’s returns? Records such as: n A copy of last year’s tax return n Valid Social Security numbers for yourself, spouse and children n All income statements, i.e.

W-2 forms, from all employers n Interest/dividend statements, i.e. 1099 forms n Form 1099-G showing any state refunds n Unemployment compensation amount n Social Security benefits n Expense receipts for deductions n Day care provider’s identifying number Find Out if You are Eligible for the EITC No tax benefit offers a greater lifeline to working families than EITC.Yet, one out of every five eligible taxpayers fails to claim it, according to the IRS. Because of the economy, even more people may be eligible if they have had changes in their earned income.

Here are a few things to keep in mind: n The amount of qualifying income depends on your situation. For example, married workers, who earned $49,078 or less from wages, selfemployment or farm income last year, are filing jointly, and have two qualifying children, could be eligible. The maximum credit for 2011 tax returns is $5,751 for workers with three or more qualifying children. n Eligibility for the EITC is determined based on a number of factors including earnings, filing status and eligible children. Workers without qualifying children may be eligible for a smaller credit amount. n You must file a tax return, even if you do not have a filing requirement, and specifically claim

EITC Rules: Are You Eligible? n Your adjusted gross income cannot be more than the limit. n You must have a valid Social Security number. n Your filing status cannot be “Married filing separately.”

the credit. Those who typically fail to claim the EITC include rural workers and their families; non-traditional families, such as grandparents or foster parents raising children; taxpayers without qualifying children; individuals with limited English proficiency; and taxpayers with disabilities. n If you claim EITC, it can be complex so try to avoid the common errors such as mistakes on income amounts, filing head of household when you should file as married, or claiming children who have not lived with you for more than half the year. n If you use a paid tax return preparer, make sure to seek out a reputable one. Tax professionals must sign returns they prepare and use their Preparer Tax Identification Numbers.

To learn more about EITC, go to www.irs.gov/eitc and use Did You Know? n Because of a holiday, the 2012 tax deadline is April 17. n Everyone can do their taxes for free with IRS Free File. n Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is for working families, yet 20 percent overlook it. n Eighty percent of taxpayers get a refund. n IRS2GO is a new smartphone app that lets you track your refund. n No phone? Visit “Where’s My Refund?” at www.irs.gov. n The official website, www.irs. gov, has a new look, and the latest info.

n n n n

You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien all year.

You cannot file Form 2555 or Form 2555-EZ. Your investment income must be $3,150 or less.

You must have earned income.

the EITC Assistant, or ask your tax professional.

All EITC claimants are eligible for free tax help from the 12,000 volunteer sites nationwide or to use Free File at www.irs.gov/ freefile.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance If you need personal assistance to prepare your tax return, there are 12,000 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites nationwide.

These sites offer free help to those earning around $50,000 or less. To locate the nearest VITA site, search for “VITA” on IRS.gov. Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE), which is supported by AARP, offers free tax help to people who are age 60 and older. To locate the nearest AARP Tax-Aide site, call 1-888-227-7669 or visit AARP.org.

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334-272-8180 • vaughnroadgardencenter.com • vrngardencenter@bellsouth.net www.primemontgomery.com | March 2012

23

around montgomery

March Mystery

W

hat? More birds? Sure! After all, it’s spring! These long-necked fellows are decidedly lower to the ground than our February Mystery (see below), and have little chance of being dehydrated. Snap your photo and send it by March 15 to be entered in a drawing for a gift certificate to Mr. Gus’ Ristorante. The winner will have their photo printed in a future issue of Prime Montgomery. E-mail photo and contact information to jakebroberts1@gmail.com.

Keep Calm e

and

e

Eagl

plaY On The British Invasion Package Starts at $170* *Includes one ticket to each play and the $30 membership fee.

Add a ticket for your best mate for only $140.

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Jim Hoffman

Jim Hoffman, visiting from Fredrick, Maryland, went looking for February’s Mystery location while visiting Julius Fargis, himself a previous Mystery location winner.

“We were gazing upward and around,” said Joyce Hoffman, “and found the eagle at 60 Dexter Avenue in downtown Montgomery!”

Hats off to the Hoffman’s and their Montgomery hosts. They win a Gift Certificate to Mr. Gus’ Ristorante 24

March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

The 39 Steps Travels with My Aunt The Merry Wives of Windsor Henry VIII

AlAbAmA ShAkeSpeAre FeStivAl

montgomery, Alabama 1.800.841.4273 www.ASF.net

financial

Financial Field Manual

A

Guide for Military Families

20-page booklet featuring financial success stories from service members and their families is available in the River Region from the Alabama Securities Commission (ASC). Recently distributed on military bases, the manual is also available online from the ASC at www.asc.alabama.gov.

“We are aware of the fact that military families in Alabama face a lot of financial pressures during these difficult economic times,” said Joe Borg, ASC Director. “That’s why we are eager to help get out the word to active and retired military personnel and family members about what they can do to strengthen their finances and also to avoid the unscrupulous con artists and quick-buck schemers who prey on those who serve our nation.”

The goal of the publication is to help military families make informed investing decisions, protect their money and their families, and take charge of their financial lives. It offers comprehensive guidance on a wide range of timely personal finance topics, including: 1) Investing for the Future. Members of the military have access to special investing plans that can help them save for the future, but they’re also frequent targets of scam artists and identity thieves.

The guide shows them how to make the most of their special savings plans, make smart investing decisions, and avoid the new generation of scams.

2) Protecting Investments and Family. Military families have some unique risks—especially when they’re deployed—but they also have access to special programs to help them protect their savings and their families. The booklet guides them on how to make the most of these resources in areas such as insurance, estate planning, and new tax rules.

3) Special Home-Buying Resources. Military families, who tend to move frequently and sometimes with little notice, have been hit particularly hard by the housing downturn. But they also have access to special mortgage programs and tax breaks.

The guide addresses these valuable resources and some key investing decisions to protect them from

housing troubles that can jeopardize their financial situation.

4) Protecting Investments When Leaving the Military. Service men and women need to make some key investing decisions after leaving the military. The booklet provides guidance to help ensure that the savings they have built throughout their service lasts through retirement – which is particularly timely as they enter a challenging civilian job market.

5) Special Benefits for Military Families. Members of the military have special legal rights and access to other valuable benefits, such as a GI bill that can help service members, their spouses and their children pay for college. The guide shows them how to make the most of those benefits to help protect their savings.

The publication, made possible by a partnership between the ASC, Investor Protection Trust (IPT), Investor Protection Institute (IPI), the Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB) and Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Magazine, is designed to help military families find the resources needed to make smart investing decisions.

“For military families at home,” said Don Blandin, IPT President and CEO, “readiness in terms of their personal finances can be nearly as important as the readiness of their loved ones who are in harm’s way serving our nation.”

Resources: n Alabama Securities Commission,

www.asc.alabama.gov n Better Business Bureau Military Line,

www.bbb.org/military n Investor Protection Trust/Investor Protection

Institute, www.protectinvestors.org For more information contact: Dan Lord, ASC Education and Public Affairs Manager, 334-353-4858, dan.lord@asc.alabama.gov Patrick Mitchell (IPT), 703-276-3266, pmitchell@ hastingsgroup.com.

www.primemontgomery.com | March 2012

25

medical

Marci’s Medicare Answer

March 2012 Dear Marci, I have cataracts, and I would like to set up an appointment with an eye doctor. When does Medicare cover eye care?

— Lily Dear Lily, While Medicare will not generally pay for routine eye care, it will pay for some eye care services if you have a chronic eye condition, such as cataracts or glaucoma. In that case, Medicare will cover: n Surgical procedures to help repair the function of the eye due to these conditions. For example, Medicare will cover surgery to remove the cataract and replace your eye’s lens with a synthetic intraocular lens. n Eyeglasses or contacts only if you have had cataract surgery during which an intraocular lens was placed into your eye. Medicare will cover a standard pair of untinted prescription eyeglasses or contacts if you need them after surgery. If it is medically necessary, Medicare may pay for customized eyeglasses or contact lenses. n An eye exam to diagnose potential eye disease. If you are having vision problems that indicate a serious eye condition, Medicare will pay for an exam to see what is wrong, even if it turns out that you don’t have an eye disease.

Medicare will cover yearly preventive eye exams at 80 percent (after the Part B deductible) only if you have diabetes or are at high risk for glaucoma.

Dear Marci, My doctor told me I am eligible to get colon cancer screenings for free. Is this true?

— Liam Dear Liam, Yes, your doctor is correct.

Medicare covers most colon cancer screenings at 100 percent (except barium enemas, which are covered at 80 percent) for people with Medicare aged 50 and older if your provider takes assignment.

The Part B deductible does not apply to any of the colon cancer screenings. Medicare will cover these tests: n Fecal occult blood test - once a year (every 12 months) for people aged 50 and older. n Flexible sigmoidoscopy - once every four years (48 months) for people at high risk, and less frequently for other people. n Colonoscopy - once every two years (24 months) if you are at high risk for colorectal cancer (e.g. you have 26

March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

a family history of the disease or have had colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer, or have had inflammatory bowel disease). If you are not considered high-risk, Medicare covers colonoscopies every 10 years (but not within 48 months of a flexible sigmoidoscopy screening). n Barium enema - once every two years for people at high risk and once every four years for others (but not within 48 months of a flexible sigmoidoscopy screening).

Dear Marci, I missed my initial enrollment period, and I need to sign up for Medicare Part B right away. Is there a time of the year when anyone can enroll in Medicare Part B, even if they missed their initial enrollment period?

— Lavender Dear Lavender, Yes, there is. If you do not enroll in Medicare or if you refused Medicare when you originally became eligible for it, you can sign up during the General Enrollment Period, or the GEP. The GEP takes place from January 1 to March 31 of every year.

Your coverage will begin July 1 of the year you sign up.

You will have to pay a Part B premium penalty for every year you delayed enrolling in Medicare Part B. Under certain circumstances, you may also be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to sign up for Medicare Part B outside of the usual enrollment periods.

If you have coverage from your or your spouse’s current employer, you can sign up for Part B while you still have current employer coverage and up to eight months after you lose your health coverage, or you or your spouse stops working, whichever comes first.You must enroll in Part B during your SEP, or you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty.

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) 3334114. 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.

feature

The best way to understand San Francisco is to visit its neighborhoods. (Photo by Irv Green)

Secrets of San Francisco

By Andrea Gross

I

lived in California for many years, but it wasn’t until last year that I began to learn the secrets of one of its greatest cities — San Francisco. Oh, I’d walked the Golden Gate, noodled around Chinatown and shopped in Union Square, but I’d never heard the gossip.

Then I took three neighborhood tours, each led by residents who showed me the hidden places and told me the scandalous stories. Finally, I feel like a native.

North Beach The American Planning Association calls North Beach one of ten "great neighborhoods in America,” and it's easy to see why. It's a community in every sense of the word — a place where people walk, talk and eat.

That's exactly what my husband and I do during our award-winning Local Tastes of the City Tour. Tom Medin, owner and guide, begins by giving us the history of the area. It was, he says, settled by Italians, then became a

hangout for members of the Beat Generation and a risqué nightclub district. But now it's relaxed into an area of small shops, eateries, bakeries and delicatessens.

He leads us from one to another, feeding us fascinating facts to digest along with the food. By the end of the tour, when we go into Café Trieste, a coffee house frequented by the likes of Steve Allen, Woody Allen, Pavarotti and Bill Cosby, I'm feeling like I am an in-the-loop San Franciscan.

That night, to solidify our city-wise credentials, we go to Beach Blanket Babylon, a San Francisco staple since 1974. We sip wine and watch performers, who wear outrageous hats that are four or five feet tall as they spoof all things political and most things sacred. The man next to me laughs so hard that he spills his wine into my lap. I barely notice because I'm laughing equally hard. www.primemontgomery.com | March 2012

27

The cable car always has been – and still is – the best way to get to Nob Hill. (Photo courtesy of Hobknob tours.)

Chinatown We're walking through San Francisco's Chinatown, but the bustling crowds of Grant Avenue seem far away. On the back streets men are playing mahjong, women are folding disks of dough into fortune-cookie packets, and a man is weighing medicinal herbs for a customer who has a hacking cough.

"Nee haw, hello," I say, trying out my one phrase of Chinese. Our leader — she doesn't like to be called a "guide" — laughs.

"No, no, no," she says. "That's Mandarin Chinese. Here in San Francisco, most of the Chinese speak Cantonese. It's A visitor who wanders the back streets of Chinatown gets a much nay ho."

That's only the first of many things we learn as we follow different perspective than one who stays on Grant Avenue. (Photo by Irv Green) Shirley Fong-Torres, aka the Wok-Wiz, through the part of Chinatown where, as she says, "real people live, work and by the post-quake fires. Today the area is again filled with play." homes of the affluent.

She points to a mural on an alley wall and explains the Valerie laughs as she dispenses gossipy tidbits. I learn, for custom it depicts.. example, that two feuding barons each hired bodyguards to “That’s not just a pretty painting,” she says. “It’s a picture protect one from the other, and that a rich widow disinheritof one of our Chinese New Year activities.” ed her son when he opposed her marriage to a younger man.

Next we go into a store filled with imitation cell phones, By the time the tour ends, I know why Nob Hill is sometelevision sets, food and clothing, all made out of paper. The times called "snob hill," and I'm reveling in my insider status.

Chinese, we learn, want to make sure their relatives have all We've only begun to explore the neighborhoods in depth, the comforts of this world when they journey to the next but for now my mind is full and my feet are sore! one. Again, without Shirley, we'd have missed the real meaning of what we were seeing. We’d have thought the items were simply cute children's toys.

Nob Hill We take a cable car to the Fairmont, the grand dame of hotels atop San Francisco's Nob Hill. It seems apropos dancewear & a whole lot more! since the cable car is what allowed the 19th century’s most privileged folks to live in rarefied hilltop air, far above the ,Hours. "low-life" who frequented the docks. The street was simply Mon-Fri 10-6 too steep for horse-drawn carriages.

In The Courtyard Saturday 9-4 Valerie Huff, owner of Hobnob Tours, meets us and leads 2101 Eastern Blvd.

Jewelry us first through the public rooms of the grand hotel, then (behind Starbucks) Accessories on a two-hour, flat-ground tour of the neighborhood. Before Gifts the earthquake of 1906, the area was filled with grand man(334) 239-0655 Invitations sions and luxury hotels, all but two of which were destroyed Monogramming www.boucou.net

Bou Cou

28

March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

GAMES & PUZZLES Across 1 Gold medalist's place 6 Buddies 11 Use a stun gun on 14 Boise's state 15 Saigon's Vietnam War counterpart 16 "__ had it!"

17 Penning ads and such 19 Wee one 20 PC key next to the space bar 21 Buttery and creamy, as pastry 22 Browsing the Web, say 24 When doubled, make light of 25 Church alcove 26 Mall habituĂŠ's motto 32 Ending for micro- or oscillo33 Puppy's protest 34 Big Band __ 35 Tackle box item 36 Equine, to a 19-Across 38 Odds partner 39 Like most codgers 40 Long-haul rig

41 Postal postings 42 Instrument Bob Dylan was once booed for playing 46 Gold medalist, vis-Ă -vis competitors 47 Egyptian snakes 48 "Comin' right up" 51 Part of a blind 52 "Unbelievable!"

55 Whopper junior?

56 Race decided by a camera, or what the start of 17-, 26or 42-Across literally is 59 Seasonal malady 60 Crowbar, essentially 61 How objects are seen through a mist 62 "Is it soup __?"

63 Skip the announcement, invitations, etc.

64 Old Montreal team Down 1 Payroll tax acronym 2 Teen favorite 3 Totally absorbed 4 Hardly outgoing 5 Line on a tugboat

6 Showy to a fault 7 "What __ God wrought?"

8 Prefix with verse 9 Game with tiny hotels 10 Volunteers (for)

11 Penne relative 12 Skin So Soft maker 13 Townshend of The Who 18 Mob disorder 23 Was in front 24 Benedict I, e.g.

25 Affirmative votes 26 Oar 27 Large crowd 28 Emotionally expressive, as poetry 29 Avis __ Car 30 Tell the waiter what you want 31 Avoid flunking 32 Gin fizz flavoring 36 __ Bernardi, who played Tevye on Broadway 37 Fail to mention 38 Diner sign 40 Church topper 41 Scary beach current 43 TV network with an eye logo 44 In great numbers 45 "Wild Blue Yonder" mil. group 48 Far from certain 49 River through Egypt 50 Be contiguous with 51 Aerobics accessory 52 Spineless one 53 Norway's capital 54 __ and wherefores 57 Lacto-__ vegetarian 58 Put the kibosh on (c) 2012 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

www.primemontgomery.com | March 2012

29

prime diversions

Recent dvd releases J. Edgar, Drive, and Puss in Boots

J. Edgar (R) Anyone who remembers J. Edgar Hoover’s reign as America’s “top cop” for about half of the past century is unlikely to associate him with Leo DiCaprio. So the idea of the romantic hero from Titanic portraying this human bulldog (looks and demeanor no offense intended to our canine compadres) seems pretty outlandish.Yet director Clint Eastwood seems to have nailed the casting with his selection.

The film is long and melodramatic, covering Hoover’s and the FBIs origins in 1919, through his death during the Nixon years. Some of the historical context is interesting. The depiction of the man and his times sparks plenty of controversy across the political spectrum.

Hoover’s fans will be upset about the presentation of his dark side (raging paranoia, gaining and keeping power by coercion and intimidation of presidents and congressmen, mother issues, closeted homosexual tendencies).

His detractors will claim that the screenplay glosses over many believed abuses and excesses, while underplaying those psychological determinants of who he was, and all that drove him. Everyone curious enough to watch will find something to gripe about, reaching the hallmark of success for biopics. As in most dispute settlements, if everyone winds up somewhat dissatisfied, the deal was probably fair.

Answering the most likely questions —yes, the crossdressing and presumably intimate relationship with Clyde Tolson are addressed, though minimally; his dogged pursuit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and clashes with the Kennedys are also covered. DiCaprio’s performance is remarkable, regardless of how one feels about the man he’s representing, or the perspective on him and his legacy offered in the script.

Drive (R) This crime drama opens as if it will be a homegrown, blue-collar version of Jason Statham’s high-octane Transporter flicks, with Ryan Gosling calmly managing all sorts of evasive actions behind 30

March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

the wheel for some robbers during their getaway through the streets of Los AnMark Glass geles. We next learn that he moonlights such gigs between chances to do stunt driving for movies and working as a mechanic for a minor criminal (Bryan Cranston) with ties to the Big Boys.

But the story slows down into more of a noirish tease between romance and more crimes when Gosling starts spending time with his lovely neighbor (Carey Mulligan) and her kid.

Her ex returns from jail, hoping to go straight, but unable to sever the old ties. Gosling tries to help, running afoul of those Big Boys - notably Ron Pearlman and, in a surprisingly effective stretch from his norm, Albert Brooks. No kidding. That Albert Brooks. The funny, brainy one.

Once you adjust your adrenaline levels for the somber tone shift with long pensive stretches for its principals, you can savor a moody, compelling suspense yarn that defies more conventions than casting Brooks so far against type. The number of plot twists requires more concentration than usual, but most should feel rewarded for the effort.

Puss in Boots (PG) Sequels are often disappointing. Spinoffs are relatively rare in movies, compared to TV series, and also hard to predict.

Here’s one of the good ones.

The swashbuckling cat from the animated Shrek franchise, voiced by Antonio Banderas, gets his own vehicle, and thrives in the process. This adventure bonds him with childhood pal Humpty Dumpty, giving both a fanciful backstory that sets up a superbly drawn escapade, with plenty of punch lines to keep adult viewers as entertained as the kids in the house.

Salma Hayek, Zach Galifianakis and several other stars add their vocal skills to this quest for redemption by climbing Jack’s beanstalk to repay an old debt with the goose and/or its golden eggs. Jack and Jill are portrayed quite differently than what you’d expect from their nursery rhyme.

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

35th

Anniversary Season

Montgomery Symphony Orchestra

Concert IV • Monday, February 13 • 7:30pm Concert V • Monday, April 30 • 7:30pm Davis Theatre 240-4004 • montgomery symphony.org www.primemontgomery.com | March 2012

31

MARCH CALENDAR RECURRING EVENTS Exercise Class, Bible Study, Bingo.Various days, times, locations.

Mtgy. Area Council on Aging, www.macoa.org, 334-263- 0532.

Visually impaired -- 2nd Tues., 1-2:30 pm, Aldersgate United Methodist Church. For info 334-272-6152.

Zumba. Tues. 5-6 pm, Jackson Hospital, www.jackson.org, 334293-8978.

Fibromyalgia -- 3rd Tues., 6-8 pm, Frazer Church. For info, 334272-8622.

2012 Primary Election Deadlines Mar. 2, Last day to register.

Mar. 8, Last day to apply for Absentee Ballot.

Mar. 12, Absentee hand delivery deadline.

Mar. 13, Absentee Ballot postmark deadline.

Mar. 13, 7 am-7 pm. Election Day. Obtain an Absentee Ballot by calling 832-1281, download at www.montgomeryelectioncenter.org, or visit The Montgomery Election Center, 125 Washington Ave.

Bluegrass Jam. 1st. Sat. 9 am-Noon. AL River Region Arts Center, Wetumpka. All levels welcome. For info. 334-578-8594.

Free.

Jam Sessions. 2nd & 4th Sat., 9 am-noon, Old Alabama Town, www.oldalabamatown.com. 334-240-4500 Bluegrass Jam. 3rd Sat. (Mar.-Sept.), 9 am-noon. Perry Hill UMC. For info. 334-272-3174.

Art Class. Tues., Wed. 10 am, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, www.perryhillumc.org, 334-272- 3174 Montgomery Bridge Club. Lessons, games, tournaments. Mulberry St. www.montgomerybridgeclub.org, 334-265-2143.

Docent lead tours. Sun., 1-2 pm. Mtgy Museum of Fine Arts.

Free Tax Assistance, each Sat. in Mar., 9 am-10 pm, for those earning less than $50,000/year. Alabama State U. College of Business Admin. No appointment needed. For info. 334-2294134.

SUPPORT GROUPS Hearing Loss -- 2nd Thurs., 4 pm, First United Methodist Church, 334-262-3650.

Gluten Intolerance -- 4th Thurs., 6-7 pm, Taylor Rd. Baptist Church. Speaker, research, symptoms, etc. Sample gluten-free food. For info 334-328-5942, http://gfmontgomery.blogspot. com.

Cancer -- Tues., 10-11 am, Mtgy Cancer Center. For info 334279-6677.

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March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

Parkinson -- 4th Sun., 2 pm, Cloverdale School, Fairview Ave. For info 334-328-8702 or 334-322-6301.

Alzheimer’s/Dementia -- 1st Thurs., 11 am, Frazer Church. For info 334-272-8622.

THEATRE/MUSIC/DANCE Mar. 2-4. Spring Concert performances, Alabama Dance Theatre, Mtgy. Performing Arts Centre. Classical and contemporary works celebrating ADT’s 25th Anniversary Season. For info., Kitty Seale, adtdance1@aol.com, or 334-241-2590, www. alabamadancetheatre.com. $ Mar. 4, 2:30 pm. Mendelssohn’s Oratorio Elijah. The Montgomery Chorale, orchestra, and East Alabama Chorale. 1st Baptist Church, Perry St. For info. www.montgomerychorale.org. $

Dancing with Celebrities Capital City Club Benefits American Cancer Society Relay for Life.

Wine tasting, dinner, dance competition.

Reservations needed. For info. 334-834-8920.

March 3, 5:30-10 pm.

Mar. 4, 3 pm. The New Orleans Suspects band. Capri Theatre.

For info. 334-262-4858, or online at capritheatre.org.

Mar. 8, 7:30 pm. We Still Live Here. Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers. Capri Threatre. For info. 334-2624858, or online at capritheatre.org.

Mar. 17, 7:30 pm. Irish Voices, Cloverdale Playhouse, Old Cloverdale. $ Mar. 22-24 & 29-31, 7:30 pm. 25, 2 pm. Father Knows Best, Millbrook Community Players. For info. 334-782-7317, www.millbrooktheatre. com.

Mar. 25, 3 pm, blues/jazz, Davina and The Vagabonds. Capri Theatre. For info. 334-262-4858, or online at capritheatre.org.

FLEA MARKETS/FESTIVALS/FUNDRAISERS/ CELEBRATIONS Mar. 1-5, Bridge Crossing Jubilee. National Voting Rights Museum & Institute, Selma. Commemoration of the anniversary of “Bloody Sunday” and the Selma to Montgomery march.

MARCH CALENDAR Pageant, dance, conferences, parade. For info, Sam Walker, 334418-0800, or www.selmajubilee.com. $ Mar. 3, 4:30 am-2 pm. Santuck Flea Market, Santuck, AL. Arts, crafts, antiques, collectibles, toys, food. For info. 334-567-7400.

Mar. 3, 5:30-10 pm. Dancing with Celebrities, Capital City Club.

Wine tasting, dinner, dance competition. Local celebrities compete to raise money for American Cancer Society Relay for Life. For info. 334-834-8920. Reservations needed. $

Battle of Horseshoe Bend Reenactment Horseshoe Bend Nat’l Military Park Daviston, AL. Frontier life in 1814. Encampment, hide tanning, flint knapping, basket weaving, authentic dance, cannon and musket fire. For info. call 256-234-7111, e-mail ove_jensen@nps.gov, or visit www.nps.gov/hobe.

March 24 - FREE Mar. 3, 7-11 pm. F. Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum Gala, 919 Felder Ave. For info. 334-264-4222. $ Mar. 3, 7:30-10 am. Pancake Breakfast.Vietnam Veterans of America. Appleby’s on Taylor Rd. Funds go toward memorials/ monuments to veterans. For info, 334-221-9511, or cmanikas43@gmail.com. $ Mar. 6, 6-9 pm. 9th Annual Bunco event, American Business Women’s Association, River Region Chap. Arrowhead CC. Limited tickets. Cash prizes, door prizes, raffle, finger foods, cash bar. For info. Sue Raybon, 334-294-2751. $ Mar. 10, Firemen’s Bash, downtown Eclectic. Arts, crafts, fire truck rides, food, concert. For info. 334-850-4772.

18th Annual Culinary Caper Montgomery Area Council on Aging Benefits Meals on Wheels Reception, silent auction, drawing, food.

Alabama Activity Center, Dexter Ave. Reservations needed. Call , 334-263-0532.

March 4, Noon.

Mar. 24, 25, 38th Annual Piney Woods Arts Festival, Enterprise St. Jr. College, Enterprise, AL. Juried arts/crafts show, food, entertainment, Civil War Living Display, Car & Truck Show (Saturday only). Free. For info, 334-406-2787, CoffeeCAA@ aol.com, or www.CoffeeCountyArtsAlliance.com.

Mar. 30-Apr. 1. 9 am Until... 47th Annual Eufaula Pilgrimage, Eufaula, AL. Alabama’s Oldest Tour of Homes with Southern mansions, churches, day tours, candlelight tours, art show. and

more. For info, Pam Snead, 334-687-3793, psnead@eufaulapilgrimage.com, www.eufaulapilgrimage.com. Fee for attractions only.

Mar. 31, 1 pm-4 pm. Festival of Alabama Fiber Arts. Old Alabama Town. Exhibits, workshops, demonstrations, fiber market.

OTHER Mar. 1, 1-3:30 pm. Living Well Alabama: Better Choices, Better Health Program. Mtgy. Area Council on Aging. Helps those with chronic conditions take a more active part in their health care.

For info, Jane Mitchel, Myrtle Scott, 334-240-4666.

Mar. 1, 7:30 pm. The Idea of a Southern Nation: 150 Years Later.

Huntingdon College. Dr. John M. McCardell Jr. , historian,Vice Chancellor and Pres., U. of the South. For info, www.huntingdon.edu Mar. 28, 11 am. - 1 pm. Retired Officers Wives Club Luncheon, Maxwell AFB Officers’ Club. Open to wives and widows of retired officers and to active duty career officers. New attendees call Janet Lewis, 334-567-9872 or Linda Davis, 334-224-9929 by Mar. 23.

Mar. 31, 8am - 5pm. AARP Driver Safety Program, Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Refresher class for older drivers. Completion may qualify you for a multi-year insurance discount. For info, 334-293-8977, www.jackson.org/. $

Can I Do Tai Chi If I Have: •Parkinson’s or MS? •Arthritis/Fibromyalgia?

•Knee, hip, or back problems?

•Diabetes/neuropathy?

•Cardiovascular problems?

•Poor balance, weak muscles?

YES! YO U C A N !

832-1907

www.taoist.org Taoist Tai Chi Society of the USA, Alabama Branch www.primemontgomery.com | March 2012

33

Support the Businesses that Support Prime Montgomery When you visit these businesses, let the owner or manager know you’re a Prime Montgomery reader, and that you appreciate their support of the River Region’s premiere monthly magazine focusing on those of us 50+. (Ad page numbers are listed after each advertiser’s name.)

Active Health and Rehab - 10 Alabama Artificial Limb & Orthopedic Service - 14 Alabama Shakespeare Festival - 24 All Ears Hearing Centers - 36 Bou Cou Boutique - 28 Corner on Dentistry - 5 Elmcroft of Halcyon - 16 Hospice Care of Montgomery - 6 ITEC - 21

MCA Fitness Center - 16 Montgomery Symphony Orchestra - 31 Mr. Gus’ Ristorante - 9 Omaha Steaks - 35 Stone Images Photography - 12 Taoist Tai Chi Society - 33 Vaughn Rd. Garden Center - 23 Walton Law Firm (Auburn) - 2

Reach the large and active 50+ market by advertising in Prime Montgomery, the River Region’s premiere monthly magazine aimed at this influential Prime group.

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March 2012 | www.primemontgomery.com

4Tuskegee’s Aviation History 4 Seeing Stars (at Sea!) Sea!) Centuries of News 4Six

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35

Smoke gets in your -

? . . .

S EAR Exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke

increases the risk of hearing loss

A 2011 study supported by the Better Hearing Institute revealed 1

in teenagers.

measurable hearing loss

among teenagers exposed to secondhand tobacco smoke compared to those with little or no exposure. Eighty percent of those with hearing loss were

unaware of the problem.

Hearing loss can affect a child’s academic performance and even masquerade as ADHD or other behavioral issues.

Have your loved ones tested.

Schedule a hearing exam today.

6912 Winton Blount Blvd. • Montgomery, AL 36117 334-281-8400 • www.allearscenters.com

“The doctor to see is an ENT.” Study conducted by the New York University School of Medicine, testing 1,500 young people ages 12 to 19.

The Better Hearing Institute, founded in 1973, conducts research and engages in hearing health education to help those with hearing loss benefit from proper treatment.

Dr. Rick Love of All Ears Hearing Centers was named National Practitioner of Excellence in 2005 by the Board of Governor’s of the American Academy of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery.

1