Prime Nov 2015 by Bob Corley

Prime FREE FOR YOU

Celebrating Midlife and Beyond

November 2015

Turkey, dressing & pie

(Oh my!) (see page 12)

CaraVita Village Professionally Managed by Grace Management, Inc.

THE RIGHT PACE FOR YOUR LIFESTYLE Affordable, independent living in a comfortable, friendly community! Free Seminar & Complimentary Lunch (first time attendees only)

“Planning for Life After” Dignity Memorial will answer your questions about funerals, cemeteries and cremation. Tuesday, November 10 • 11:30 am • RSVP to 334-284-0370

4000 Fieldcrest Drive • Montgomery, AL 36111 2

November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

www.caravitavillage.com

It’s not just your joints that are suffering.

It’s your life.

Introducing the Joint Center of Alabama at Baptist South. Is joint pain making you miss out on life? It’s time to stop hurting and start living. The new Joint Center of Alabama at Baptist South offers joint replacement surgery, recovery and rehab all in one convenient

Joint Center of Alabama

AT BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER SOUTH

location. And our specialized doctors and surgeons know how to get you back to living. So call us today to schedule a visit.

BringUsYourPain.com (334) 273.4444

Bring the pain. www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

Prime T

EDITOR’S NOTE

MONTGOMERY

November 2015 Vol. 6, Issue 8

PUBLISHER Bob Corley, primemontgomery@gmail.com EDITOR Sandra Polizos, primeeditor@gmail.com ART DIRECTOR Callie Corley, primemagdesign@gmail.com WRITERS Claire Yezbak Fadden, Andrea Gross, Lisa M. Petsche CONTRIBUTORS Niko Corley, Mark Glass, Kylle’ McKinney, Bob Moos, Arlene Morris, Mirenda Tatum, Nick Thomas, Alan Wallace PHOTOGRAPHERS Irv Green, Bob Corley SALES Bob Corley • 334-202-0114, primemontgomery@gmail.com Wendy McFarland, • 334-652-9080 mcfarlandadvantage@gmail.com Prime Montgomery 7956 Vaughn Road, #144 Montgomery, AL 36116 • 334-202-0114 www.primemontgomery.com ISSN 2152-9035

Prime Montgomery is a publication of The Polizos/Corley Group, LLC. Original content is copyright 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.

hanksgiving was my motherin-law’s self-declared favorite holiday. For years I never understood why. How could a holiday focused on a single meal and requiring so much pre-and-post event legwork be anyone’s #1 day of the year? It was a feast, to be sure. Every imaginable seasonal delicacy appeared on the Corley’s Thanksgiving table (more than 20 different dishes) and all were lovingly prepared by Mama’s own hands. She’d have it no other way. There was roast turkey, of course, but also smoked turkey breast, ham, cornbread dressing, oyster dressing, sweet potato casserole, Sandra Polizos, Editor apricot salad, field peas, butter beans, celery stuffed with homemade pimento cheese, squash casserole, broccoli casserole, rice, giblet as well as plain brown gravy, cranberry sauce (the homemade kind and the store-bought jelly), and yeast rolls. To say nothing of dessert: four different varieties of homemade pies -- mincemeat, pecan, pumpkin and chocolate. It was a meal fit for a king, and by the end of the afternoon, every single one of us was royally stuffed. The mealtime company was as varied as the items on the dinner table. Mama always said everyone needed a place to go for Thanksgiving, and if anyone she knew was alone, without dinner plans, she invited them to share our meal. One year I remember as many as 36 hungry souls sidling up to the dinner table, which started in the dinning room, circled outside to the deck, and eventually spiraled downstairs. Eating in your lap was unheard of, not on this day. As if the food prep and invitations weren’t enough, Mama pulled out all the family finery for Thanksgiving — her best silver, linens, china, and crystal. It was the only time of the year we dined in such high style. Though my mother-in-law is no longer a physical presence in our lives, anyone who ever participated in Corley Thanksgiving remembers the warmth of the wonderful event she created. We were lucky to be a part of it and the family fellowship, thankfulness, and love that were its ultimate result. Mama’s devotion to family, and her dedication to having everyone she loved together on this special day left its mark on us all. Only in recent years, with my own family now grown, living in different cities and headed in different directions, have I begun to fully understand the significance of making every effort to gather family together at any available opportunity. Whether it’s over a hot bowl of homemade soup, or a festive family feast, the satisfaction of having our children together again and with us seems more important now than ever before. The opportunity to share memories, renew the ties that bind us, and pass the essence of our history and heritage down to the next generation is what makes families endure. My mother-in-law is a tough act to follow and I may never be the consummate holiday hostess she became, but I realize now what she came to understand so many years ago. The deep-in-your-soul warmth and love in having your children and grandchildren assembled and happy in your home makes planning a meal for those you love, cooking all the dishes served, and washing a few more china plates on Thanksgiving Day tasks I’ll willingly — and thankfully — undertake.

If you’re 50+ and on Facebook, become a fan of PRIME Montgomery! 4

November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

November 2015 Table of Contents Editor’s Notes

Quick Reads

Yard ‘n Garden

A Gracious Plenty

Taming the Wild Scuppernong

Soups with Heart

Money Wi$e

Holiday Pounds

Retirement:Which Fund to Use? Thanksgiving’s Dark Side

History Mystery

Tinseltown Talks

Parenting your Parents Boomers: The “Sandwich Generation”

Urban Markets Flying Fish, Alligators & Clam Chowder

Social Security

In Every Life

Crossword & Sudoku

The Angry Pilgrim

Who ARE these people? A ‘High Chaparral’Thanksgiving

Start the Conversation

Dealing with Dementia

Managing Holiday Stress

Medicare

Prime Diversions

Calendar

Off the Beaten Path

Review Your Health & Drug Coverage

DVD Reviews: Overnight;Trainwreck

A Pleasant Surprise

www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

Q UICK R EADS N o v e m b er 20 1 5

Flu Shot May Reduce Stroke Risk The risk of suffering a stroke is significantly reduced for up to two months after receiving a flu vaccine, a major new study has shown. Research by the University of Lincoln, UK, showed the chances of having a first stroke fell by about a fifth in the first 59 days after receiving the flu shot. In the first week after the shot there were 36% fewer cases of stroke than would be otherwise expected among a ‘baseline’ population. The second week showed a 30% reduction with the third and fourth weeks showing 24% fewer stroke cases, dropping to 17% between 29 days and 59 days after the jab. It is thought that some cardiovascular diseases may be triggered by flu. Protection provided by the flu vaccine against the seasonal influenza virus could therefore also protect against these conditions, which include stroke.Vaccines administered earlier in the flu season offered greater protection. — University of Lincoln, UK. Published in the journal Vaccine Sit More, Weigh More Recent studies show sedentary jobs have risen 83% since 1960 and now account for 43% of all jobs in the U.S. Office workers now sit more than 80% of the workday, placing them at increased risk for many sedentary-related diseases. American workers today burn roughly 100 fewer calories a day at work compared to workers in 1960. This decline in energy expended at work is thought to play a substantial role in the rising obesity epidemic observed over the same time period. — University of Iowa. Published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.

Sleep Aids & Cognitive Function Sleeping pills can affect your memory and cognitive abilities. Medications such as Valium, Restoril, Ativan, Serax, Xanax and others, whether short-, intermediate- or long-acting, have been shown to increase the risk of cognitive impairment and delirium in older adults. Consequently, the American Geriatrics Society recommends drugs in this class not be used for the treatment of insomnia in seniors. Short-term memory loss has also been linked to the over-thecounter antihistamine Benadryl, also an ingredient in sleep aids such as Tylenol PM and Unisom. — Scientific American Consumer Health, Health After 50, www.healthafter50.com.

November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

Restless Legs Syndrome Linked to Health Issues Those with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) are at higher risk for stroke, heart and kidney disease, and earlier death, a database study of veterans found. RLS occurs when a person lies down to rest and has an uncontrollable urge to keep moving their legs. It’s considered a neurological, sleep, or movement disorder and affects up to 10% of people in the U.S. The study does not show that RLS directly brings on any of the other conditions, only that there’s an association. It could be that RLS may result, in part, from other underlying health conditions. The condition, which can occur at any age, often runs in families and specific gene variants have been linked to it. — Memphis VA Medical Center, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, University of California, Irvine. Published in the Journal of Sleep Research.

Measles Risk: 25% Gaps in measles vaccination rates place almost 25% of children three and younger at risk for becoming sick from the highly contagious illness, according to an analysis of American national vaccination coverage by researchers at Emory University in Atlanta. Measles can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis, hospitalization and occasionally, death, and is one of the most contagious of the vaccine-preventable diseases. Those who are not vaccinated or are undervaccinated are highly susceptible to becoming ill. Children are required to receive the measles vaccine before attending school, but some are exempt due to medical issues such as an immune disorder or cancer. The measles vaccine is a weakened live virus. It does not cause disease but is not recommended for those with compromised immune systems. Most states also offer exemptions for religious or personal reasons. Three states, most recently California, do not offer non-medical exemptions. — Infectious Diseases Society of America

Alzheimer’s Prevention Trial A pioneering medical trial is launching this year to determine whether two investigational drugs can prevent or delay the emergence of symptoms of Alzheimer’s in people at particularly high risk for developing the disease at older ages. The five-year trial, conducted by the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute in Phoenix, AZ, and Swiss drug company Novartis, will involve more than 1,300 cognitively healthy older adults, ages 60 to 75. Through genetic counseling participants will know they are at high risk of developing symptoms of Alzheimer’s, having inherited two copies of a gene strongly linked to late-onset Alzheimer’s. About 2% of the world’s population carries two copies of this gene, with 25% carrying one copy. Rather than trying to reverse the damage caused by Alzheimer’s, researchers hope to attack and prevent its cause years before symptoms can surface. For more information visit the trial’s website, www. endalznow.org.

Eat Late, Gain Weight Teenagers and adults who go to bed late on weeknights are more likely to gain weight than their peers who hit the hay earlier, according to a new study from the University of California, Berkeley. The study found a correlation between sleep and Body Mass Index (BMI). A healthy adult BMI range is estimated to be 18.5 to 24.9. A study of more than 3,300 youths and adults found that for every hour of sleep lost, 2.1 points were gained on the BMI. This gain occurred roughly over a five-year period. — University of California, Berkeley

www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

YARD ‘N GARDEN

Scuppernong Pruning I

By Mirenda Tatum

f you’ve read The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett you know what happens when a beautiful garden is left unattended for many years. Needless to say, things go awry and nothing flourishes as it should. Unfortunately this was the situation I found myself trying to rectify after years of neglecting the scuppernong vine my mother planted many years ago. What was once a good producer of tasty scuppernongs had become heavily invaded by privet and honeysuckle vines. It was difficult to tell which one was choking the other since the honeysuckle vines had woven themselves intricately through the scuppernong vines. Improper (or a total lack of) pruning resulted in poor production and the inability to reach the fruit that was there. The time had finally come to make things right. Like the book’s gardeners, Dickon Sowerby and Mary Lennox, my husband and I prepared to do battle with the overgrown mess. Armed with pruning shears, loppers, shovels, and a chainsaw, the rescue began. To create a safer environment in which to use the chainsaw, we first used hand shears and loppers to cut back the

vines wrapped around the privet trees. The process was slow; my husband and I cut, pulled, and carried debris for two days.It was difficult to see exactly what needed to be cut because so many of the vines had rooted where they came into contact with the soil.(It’s entirely possible something needing to stay was accidentally pruned!) At the end of the pruning process the vines looked rather pitiful. There will probably be no scuppernongs this year, but hopefully next year we will reap the benefits of our labor. In the end, our efforts yielded a severely pruned scuppernong vine, aching muscles and three beautiful, handcrafted scuppernong vine wreaths. I did learn my lesson though. Pruning and routine maintenance will now be done on a regular basis. Mirenda Tatum, a Master Gardener in the Capital City Master Gardener Association since 2014, lives in Montgomery, AL. For information on becoming a master gardener, visit the web-site, www.capcitymga.org or e-mail capcitymga@gmail.com.

Master Gardener Classes Apply now at the Montgomery Co. Extension Office in Eastmont Shopping Center — 5340 Atlanta Hwy. Classes: Each Thursday Dates: February 18th – May 5th Time: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Light lunch provided. Fee: $150.00, paid after acceptance. Hosted by Capital City Master Gardener Association For more information, call 334-270-4133, visit www.capcitymga.org or email capcitymga@gmail.com. 8

November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

Capital City Master Gardener Association FREE LUNCH & LEARN Noon – 1:00 P.M. November 4 — Bulbs for the Garden December 2 — Succulents are Addictive Bring sack lunch, drinks provided Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Ave. For more information, contact the Montgomery County Extension Office (334) 2704133.

Learn Bridge In A Day? (Yes! In one day!)

Learn CONTRACT BRIDGE in one day in a friendly, social atmosphere. tttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt

Certified instructors. Fri. Nov. 20, 1 p.m.-5 p.m.

All ages welcome. Sat. Nov. 21, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

tttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt

Pre-register: $25 • At the door: $30 Montgomery Bridge Club • 1103 S. Perry St. To register call Bob Lake • 334-279-8185 Visit us online at www.mbridge.club

American Contract Bridge League

Advertorial

Retiring in Style

or an active retirement, with recreational, Opelika has restored its downtown district with cultural and educational opportunities in restaurants and clothing, antique, art and gift abundance, National Village is your place. shops. Downtown Auburn offers its own unique Adjacent to the 54-hole Robert blend of college campus shops, Trent Jones Golf Trail’s Grand restaurants, bars, and nightlife National complex, National establishments. Southeast Village is a 700-acre recreAuburn has celebrated the ational and retirement resort. opening of nearly 20 new When completed, it will include shops and restaurants in the upscale homes and cottages, past two years. The area has a village center, parks, green space, walking trails, a wide variety of cafés, coffeehouses, sports bars, fishing, and a 4,200 square-foot pool complex. and fine dining restaurants with American classics, Just six miles from Auburn University, minutes BBQ, fresh seafood, and ethnic dishes representing from downtown Asia, Germany, Italy and Opelika and Auburn, a Mexico. 45-minute drive to the The East Alabama Medcapital city of Montical Center in Opelika gomery, and 90 minutes provides comprehensive from Atlanta’s Hartscancer services, cardiolfield-Jackson Internaogy and cardiovascular tional Airport, National surgery, neurosurgery, Village offers access to orthopaedics, rehabilithe world while you live tation services, pain and in country splendor. sleep disorder clinics The surrounding area and more, with 160 provides a comfortable lifestyle and complete physicians practicing 31 different specialties on the range of services, a balance of outdoor recreation active medical staff. and outstanding cultural attracAuburn University, with 25,000 tions, a sense of community, low students, offers 140 degree opGet the FREE traffic congestion, and uncrowded tions in 13 schools and colleges at “Guide to Retirement at National Village” conditions. Plus, there are numerthe undergraduate, graduate, and Call 334-749-8165 ous university activities in which professional levels. or download a copy at to participate. The Osher Lifelong Learning www.nationalvillage.com. At National Village you’re only Institute (OLLI) offers not-forminutes away from top notch credit courses in art, languages, medical facilities, world-class educational opportuliterature, history, theology, sciences, and an extennities, great shopping and restaurants, and cultural sive array of other subjects. activities ranging from championship sporting A moderate four-season climate allows an abunevents to museums, concerts and year-round prodance of outdoor recreational opportunities. Call fessional theatre. or go on-line for a free Retirement Guide.

www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

A GRACIOUS PLENTY ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP WITH CHARRED VEGETABLES

Prep time: 20 | Cook time: 45 | Serves: 6 1/2 cup chopped piloncillo (an unrefined Mexican sugar) 1 teaspoon ground cumin 3 cups large butternut squash, cubed and peeled 4 whole large carrots, unpeeled 3 tablespoons olive oil 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1 chipotle pepper, chopped 2 quarts low-sodium vegetable stock 1/2 cup white corn kernels, washed 1/4 cup small diced Mexican squash 1 large jalapeno, stemmed, thinly sliced 3 fresh coriander leaves 1 tablespoon kosher salt 1/4 cup toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) Heat oven to 350 F. In large mixing bowl combine piloncillo, cumin, butternut squash and whole carrots.Toss to evenly coat and place on large baking dish. Roast in oven for 30 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly, reserving about 1/4 of roasted vegetables. Cube carrots into bite-size pieces. Set aside. In an 8-quart stockpot, heat olive oil. Saute about half the garlic, chipotle pepper, remaining carrots and butternut squash, and vegetable stock. Simmer for 10 minutes. Working in batches, transfer cooked stock and vegetables to blender and puree.When complete, return to stockpot to keep warm for serving. Meanwhile, heat medium-sized skillet. Add corn, Mexican squash, jalapeno, coriander leaves, remaining garlic and reserved butternut squash and carrots. Quickly saute to lightly char (not burn) veggies. Keep watch and stir when needed for 3-5 minutes. Season to taste with salt. To serve, divide soup among six bowls.Top off soup with charred vegetables. Garnish with toasted pepitas and a drizzle of olive oil.

Holiday Soups with Heart T

he holidays are a great time to bring seasonal spirit into your home with delicious soup recipes.This year, why not let these chill-chasing soups also help you introduce a brand new family tradition? Consider hosting a Share the Warmth dinner party to share the joy of giving, with friends at home and with others as well. Follow these easy steps to create a seasonal tradition thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s festive and meaningful: n Contact a local organization that feeds the hungry and helps those in need and request a list of food items needed this holiday season.

n When inviting guests to your dinner party, also give them the list of food items and ask them to bring a donation. n Consider inviting a representative from the organization so they can share information about what they do and who they serve. n Take the donated food items to the local organization, or if a representative joins the party, give the donated food items to the representative that evening. n Repeat every year, and your dinner party will soon become a holiday tradition cherished by guests.

AUTUMN STEW

Prep time: 20 min. | Cook time: 45 min. | Serves: 10 1/2 cup olive oil In a 15-quart stockpot, heat oil over 2 small white onions, small diced medium-high heat. Add onion, pasilla and 2 chile negros (dried pasilla chile peppers), poblano peppers. Cook until onions just finely chopped become translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir 2 poblano peppers, small diced in garlic and cook until it becomes soft and 4 large garlic cloves, chopped fragrant, about 1 minute. 3 cups white beans, soaked overnight in Add beans and enough broth to cover cold water them. Cook until beans are soft, about 20 8 quarts low-sodium chicken or turkey minutes. Stir in remaining vegetables and broth season to taste with salt. Allow to simmer 1 large butternut squash, small diced until tender, about 15 minutes. 1 acorn squash, small diced With a handheld immersion blender, do 1 large sweet potato, medium diced four quick pulses, blending some of the 1 yam, medium diced soup and vegetables to make the mixture 1/8 cup sea salt or kosher salt a little creamy without additional fat or 3 cups leftover roasted turkey, dark and cream. white meat, cubed Add turkey; cook another 5 minutes. 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar Drizzle in vinegar to help balance sweet1 tablespoon fresh thyme ness; season to taste with sea salt. 3 leaves fresh sage Serve stew with plenty of fresh herbs 4 cups fresh mint, stemmed and chopped (thyme, sage and mint).

Courtesy: Family Features. Find more recipes at princesshouse.com. 10 November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

MONEYWI $ E

Retirement Tax Tactics S

ince the tax impact of pulling money out of different account types is not the same, retirees can stretch their money by making well-informed choices about which account to tap for spendable dollars. Since the decision-making process can be complex, seeking the input of a qualified professional in choosing your strategy may help. Whether you do that or not, here are some things to keep in mind. Alan Wallace 1. Consider the income tax consequences of any withdrawal. Money taken from a traditional IRA is taxable unless it is deemed a withdrawal of cost basis related to a non-deductible contribution. Money taken from a Roth IRA is not taxed. Money taken from personal savings or investments is not taxed, but if you have to sell something and realize a gain to free up the cash you withdraw, the gain is taxable. 2. Federal and Alabama income tax rates are progressive.You will pay a higher tax rate on slices of taxable income that exceed certain threshold amounts. The lowest three tax rates and associated income caps amounts for 2015 are shown below for single people and married people filing jointly. For instance, a single person would owe 10% tax on her first $9,075 of income, 15% on the slice from $9,075 to $36,900, and 25% on the amount between $36,900 and $83,250. Single Married 10% 9,075 18,150 15% 36,900 73,800 25% 83,250 148,850 3. Starting at age 70½ the IRS mandates certain minimum withdrawals from traditional retirement accounts (IRAs, for example). For planning purposes you need to estimate what the required minimum distribution will be for you and, if married, your spouse. 4.You need to project the tax items over which you have limited control or are part of your probable lifestyle. These include Social Security benefits, traditional pension benefits, income from other sources, and itemized deductions, if applicable.

5. Estimate the total you will need, after-tax, from your various accounts each year for the next several years. Be sure to allow for vehicle replacements, home repairs, major travel, etc. 6.Your goal should be to normalize your tax bite over a period of several years. For instance, it is better to manage your withdrawals to stay in the 15% bracket than jumping into the 25% bracket every few years. Knowing how much room you have left in the 15% bracket in a particular year will let you take more out of your IRA that year while staying in a 15% bracket.You can set that extra withdrawal aside in savings for use in a later year. The alternative is that you wait until an emergency occurs and pull extra money out that year, wind up in a 25% bracket, and effectively pay 10% more than you had to on some of the money that you withdrew. 7. By having multiple accounts with different tax attributes, you give yourself more options and greater flexibility. Suppose that you manage your situation so that you are consistently at the top of the 15% bracket. Then an emergency arises and you need extra money. If you take it from your IRA, you will pay 25% of the withdrawal in federal tax (not to mention up to 5% in state income tax). If, however, you have a Roth IRA, you can take the extra money from there tax free. As with most financial decisions, there are two critical lessons here. First, get the facts. Don’t make an uninformed snap decision. Identify your options and understand the implications before you act. The second is to plan ahead. Don’t wait until you are in a situation before you start thinking about your options. Depending on your circumstances, the difference between using a refined retirement income strategy and winging it can be thousands of dollars over a period of years. Don’t pay the taxman more than necessary. Alan Wallace, CFA, ChFC, CLU is a Senior Financial Advisor for Ronald Blue & Co.’s Montgomery office, www.ronblue. com/location-al. He can be reached at 334-270-5960, or by e-mail at alan.wallace@ronblue.com.

“…the difference between using a refined retirement income strategy and winging it can be thousands of dollars over a period of years.” www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

FEATURE

Thanksgiving Dinner is Served! B

efore you pick up your fork, know this: The average American will consume more than 4,500 calories and 229 grams of fat on Thanksgiving Day alone, according to the Calorie Control Council. Add that to the fact that studies show the average person gains an average of 10 pounds during the holiday season, and well, you get the picture. So rather than be a statistic, know the facts and arm yourself with information about what you’re eating— and how much of your favorite food will set you over the edge when you hop on the scale. Read on for the calorie details! BISCUITS Serving Size: 2 store-bought refrigerated biscuits Calories = 340 | Fat = 12 grams About the same as drinking: 1 large Caramel Mocha Coffee with Cream from Dunkin Donuts Fun Fact: “Biscuit” is derived from the Latin word bis (twice) and the French coquere (to cook). Biscuits were originally cooked twice — first baked and then dried in a low-heat oven, according to the Oxford Dictionaries.

Serving Size: 1/4 cup Calories = 110 Fat = 0 grams

CRANBERRY SAUCE Fun Fact: Only 5 percent of cranberries are sold fresh. The remaining 95 percent are turned into cranberry juice, cranberry sauce, and other cranberry products.

About the same as eating: 5 1/2 Dum Dum lollipops

HOMEMADE PUMPKIN PIE Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of 9-inch pie) Calories = 320 | Fat = 14.5 grams About the same as eating: 22 Mini Oreos Fun Fact: According to the University of Illinois, 90 percent of the pumpkins grown in the United States are raised within a 90-mile radius of Peoria, Illinois. Most pumpkins are processed into canned pumpkin and canned pie mix. A Libby’s® processing plant in Morton, Illinois, (near Peoria) cans more than 85 percent of the world’s pumpkin each year. 12

November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

GRAVY Serving Size: 3 small ladles-ful (1/2 cup) Calories = 100 Fat = 8 grams About the same as eating: 4 heaping tablespoons of guacamole

MASHED POTATOES Serving Size: 2 large spoonfuls (about 1 cup) Calories = 237 | Fat = 9 grams About the same as eating: 1 regular-size bag M&Ms Fun Fact:The average American eats about 124 pounds of potatoes per year, according to the Idaho Potato Museum, while Germans eat about twice as much.

Fun Fact: Fear of lumpy gravy is common.The two main reasons gravy gets lumpy can both happen during the thickening process: 1) adding flour directly to gravy and 2) adding liquid to a roux too quickly without proper whisking.

ROAST TURKEY Serving Size: 4 slices (3/8 inch thick) Calories = 320 | Fat = 12 grams About the same as eating: 1 McDonaldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grilled Honey Mustard Snack Wrap and Side Salad Fun Fact: More than 45 million turkeys are cooked and eaten every year at Thanksgiving, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

SWEET POTATOES About the same as eating: 1 Chicken Alfredo meal from the Lean Cuisine Market Collection Serving Size: 2 large spoonfuls (about 1 cup) Calories = 285 | Fat = 7 grams Fun Fact: Sweet potatoes are the official vegetable of North Carolina.

GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE Serving Size: 2 large spoonfuls (about 1 cup) Calories = 350 | Fat = 17 grams

CREAMED SPINACH Serving Size: 1 spoonful (about 1/2 cup) Calories = 150 | Fat = 10 grams

About the same as eating: 1 Celeste Original Pizza for One

About the same as eating: 2 poached eggs

Fun Fact: Green Bean Casserole was created 50 years ago by Campbellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.The famous soup company came up with the idea when it was making new recipes for its annual cookbook.

Fun Fact: Popeye is known for his strength due to eating spinach. But this portrayal was based on incorrect iron calculations. German scientist Emil von Wolff misplaced a decimal point, making the iron content 10 times higher than it actually is.

BREAD STUFFING Serving Size: 2 large spoonfuls (about 1 cup) Calories = 350 | Fat = 17 grams About the same as eating: 1 chili cheese dog Fun Fact: About 60 million boxes of Stove Top Stuffing are sold on Thanksgiving, according to Kraft foods.

Courtesy: grandparents.com www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

Take your tastes to a different kinda place at Wind Creek Casino & Hotel Montgomery. Get in the winning groove on our gaming floor, grab a bite of somethin’ outta sight at one of our three dining venues, then spice up your evening with the soulful sounds of B.B. King’s Blues Club. And if all that action seems too good to leave behind, our stylish hotel will be open for you to start spending your winning nights on December 2015.

November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

elp the Alabama Department of Archives and History identify the people in these photographs. Since the partnership with Prime began in December, 2014, the ADAH has been able to identify many of the people in our monthly historical photos.Your assistance continues to be a critical element in determining who they are. If you know anyone in these or previous photos, contact Meredith McDonough at 334353-5442, or meredith. mcdonough@archives.alabama.gov, or e-mail Prime magazine at primemontgomery@gmail.com.

HISTORY MYSTERY: DO YOU KNOW THESE PEOPLE?

Top Right: 1958. Marching band color guard during halftime at the BlueGray game, Cramton Bowl. Montgomery, AL. (Horace Perry photo) Right: November 24, 1966. Muhammad Ali with a young girl during Alabama State U. homecoming activities, Thanksgiving Day, Montgomery, AL. (Jim Peppler photo) Below: December 10, 1969. Congressman Bill Dickinson with employees at Mr. Gâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant, 3080 McGehee Rd., Montgomery,AL. Dickinson was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1965 to 1992. (John E. Scott photo)

www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

TINSELTOWN TALKS

A ‘High Chaparral’ Thanksgiving By Nick Thomas

ome November, Henry Darrow’s thoughts typically turn to turkeys … and burros. Darrow, who turned 82 in September, played Manolito in the popular 60s western television series High Chaparral. He recalls the memorable Thanksgiving episode, “For What We Are About to Receive,” first broadcast on NBC on November 29, 1968. “We spent that episode looking for a lost turkey that I’d won in a shooting contest,” said Darrow, from his home in North Carolina. “The bird falls off my wagon and in one scene we’re all out in the desert making various turkey sounds trying to catch it. That was a fun episode.” Earlier in the plot, Manolito’s buckboard holding the turkey is stolen, forcing him to seek alternative transportation. “A burro!” recalled Darrow, laughing. “I can still picture myself riding that animal — it was very boney and uncomfortable!” Darrow appeared in all 98 High Chaparral episodes, as well as more than 130 film and television roles, many discussed in his 2012 autobiography Henry Darrow: Lightning in the Bottle co-written with Jan Pippins (see www.henrydarrowbook.com). High Chaparral was one of numerous TV westerns dominating network television in the 60s. “About 15 of the top 20 shows were westerns,” said Darrow. But the series stood out with its realistic treatment of life and conflict in the old West. “It was also the first show to feature a Hispanic family alongside an Anglo family in prime time.” The show was created by Bonanza producer David Dortort, who was looking for a Hispanic actor to play Manolito. “I got lucky when he saw me in a play,” said Darrow, whose parents were from Puerto Rico although he was actually born in Manhattan.

Darrow was a teenager when his family returned to Puerto Rico, where he studied at the university before heading back to the U.S to take up acting. “As a kid in Puerto Rico, I’d get out of school and go down to a small, local theater and for a quarter could see all the great cowboy stars like Charlie Starrett (the Durango Kid), Buck Jones, Gene Autry, and Roy Rogers,” he recalled. “Then, as a young adult, I got to play one on TV!” Darrow says he wanted Manolito to have his own easy-going personality, but also drew on previous stage work. “I styled him after two Shakespearian characters I played: Mercutio from Romeo and Juliet, which added a comedic touch, and Iago from Othello, which mixed a little darkness to the character. He was a free spirit!” High Chaparral also starred Leif Erickson, as head of the Cannon family’s Arizona ranch, as well as Linda Cristal, Mark Slade, and Cameron Mitchell. “Cam (Mitchell) was quite a character,” said Darrow. “He introduced me to horse and dog racing, and poker, but I learned a lot from watching him and his inventiveness on the set.” During summer shooting on location, Darrow says ground temperatures could exceed 120 degrees. “If you got knocked down during a fight scene and brushed your skin against a rock out in the sun, it would burn you.” Despite the heat, Darrow remembers Mitchell usu-

Have a Mary Kay Christmas!

Personal Service • Great Gift Ideas • Quality, Tested Products

Book a FREE holiday pampering session today for you & your friends! Callie Corley, Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant 334-462-7286

November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

ally dressed in black. “Cam would jump into the horse troughs when it was hot and after dripping a bit when he got out, you couldn’t tell his black shirt and pants were wet.Very smart!” Planning for the final banquet scene of the Thanksgiving episode (after a turkey is finally caught and cooked), Darrow remembers Mitchell saying he would serve the peas, leaving the mashed potatoes for Darrow. “But Cam grabbed the potatoes,” laughed Darrow. “He was always doing something unexpected.” The meal was also interrupted by neighbors and local Indians, each claiming ownership of the turkey. “Instead of fighting, we ended up sharing the meal,” explained Darrow. “It was like the first Thanksgiving all over again — a wonderfully written episode for the season.” Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery, Ala., and has written features, columns, and interviews for more than 600 magazines and newspapers.

(Opposite) Henry Darrow in the film Soda Springs (courtesy 2C Entertainment). (Above) Cast members Leif Erickson (L), Mark Slader (C), Darrow and Linda Cristal (courtesy NBC). (Below) Slader, Darrow, Cam Mitchell. (Bottom) Darrow, on burro, and Erickson in the Thanksgiving episode.

Questions about your Medicare options?

Shane Woodard Agent/BSM Bankers Life 334-523-7100

Your Medicare choices can seem overwhelming. Let me help you find a Medicare Supplement insurance policy that helps fit your needs and offers you more complete benefits. Give me a call today!

This is a Medicare Supplement insurance solicitation. An insurance agent/producer may contact you. Medicare Supplement Insurance policies are underwritten by Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company. Colonial Penn, Bankers Life and their licensed agents are not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. Bankers Life is the marketing brand of Bankers Life and Casualty Company, Medicare Supplement Insurance policies sold by Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company and select policies sold in New York sold by Bankers Conseco Life Insurance Company (BCLIC). BCLIC is licensed to sell insurance in New York. Underwritten by Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company Administrative Office: Chicago, IL. BankersLife.com © 2015 Bankers Life (03/15) 161428 155854-CG

B A N K E R S LIFE

www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

Parenting

FEATURE

Our Parents A Look Inside the Sandwich Generation By Claire Yezbak Fadden

November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

he week I placed my 82-year-old mother in an assisted-living retirement home was the same week my five-year-old son started kindergarten. The decision to move Mom out of her home was made after months of agonizing discussions with my brothers and sister. We all spent hours and hours researching her options, being very reluctant to take any of Mom’s independence away from her. As time went on, it became increasingly apparent that she wasn’t able to properly and safely care for herself the way she had done for decades. We were all in agreement that Mom couldn’t live alone any more. But what was the best solution? There were many options to take into account. We

discussed everything from Mom moving in with one of us (a choice she would never go for) to having someone live with her to moving her to a residential care facility. Increasingly adult children are faced with this same situation. Sandwiched between generations, couples in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, still in the throes of raising their families, are having to make decisions for aging parents. In fact, nearly one in four households in the U.S. are caring for an older parent or relative. We are descriptively called “The Sandwich Generation” – feeling pushed from two sides – caring for our own children and finding ourselves a parent to Mom or Dad. After months of investigation, our family found the

www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

perfect assisted-care facility. Mom has her own room, all of her medications are administered, she has daily interaction with lots of people, her meals are provided for and there is someone available 24 hours a day (if she needs anything). The environment is stimulating and the residents are cared for lovingly. I wanted to provide all of these things for my mother. With the challenges of raising three children and caring for a husband, I wasn’t able to do all of them myself. For my situation, residential care was an answer to a prayer. Becoming your parent’s parent may seem like a tremendous mountain to climb. You may feel that you are all alone. However, there are millions of baby boomers providing both emotional and/ or financial support to their parents, while raising their own children. There are many local and national resources to make the quest for answers regarding your parent’s care easier. Take the time and do the research. You’ll then be able to make informed choices. After all, mom and dad made the best choices for us when we couldn’t do it for ourselves. Your thoughtful help now is a good way to return that favor. Where To Start Your choice of what type of elder care to use will depend on what your parent is capable of doing. The choices are widespread and varied. So your first step is to evaluate your parent’s abilities. For example, if your mom can do light housecleaning, but needs help with heavy tasks, all you may need to do is contact a local social service agency. They’ll give

November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

you some names of groups who provide this type of help. However, if your Dad can’t drive and you’re concerned about his ability to use public transportation, you may want to contact the Red Cross about what services they provide, and what additional services are available in your area. A great resource in learning to ask the right questions is the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons). Log on to their website, www.aarp.com, and click on Family, and then click on Caregiving for a menu of articles that will give you a good start. If your parents have come to a place in their lives where they are unable to remain in their current living situation without some changes, then it’s time to consider your options. The list of options is varied — everything from adult day care, residential and nursing home care, to home care, home-delivered meals or moving in with a relative are all possibilities. Caring for the Caregiver In her book, The Complete Eldercare Planner (Three Rivers Press, 2009) Joy Loverde devotes an entire chapter to caregivers, with a focus on taking care of the caregiver. Loverde notes: “According to Children of Aging Parents, Inc., family members provide 80 percent of the care of aging relatives. They do so without pay, often with little or no assistance, while coping with competing responsibilities of family, work and personal interest.” Adult children frequently feel guilty, frustrated,

powerless and torn between caring for their parents and their responsibilities to the family they are raising. There is nothing unusual, mean-spirited or bad about those feelings. “All caregivers feel frustrated, guilty, overworked and alone,” says Pam Erickson, R.N., founder of Professional Respite Care, Inc. Erickson says that it’s best to accept your feelings. She advises caregivers to look for early warning signs of trouble, such as persistent irritability, sleep problems, depression, anxiety and temper flare-ups. “Prioritize tasks. Don’t feel like everything must be done today. Take breaks. Give yourself a daily change of scene,” says Erickson. It’s not uncommon for a caregiver (usually a woman) to spend nearly 18 hours a week caring for an aging parent. Loverde says, “Scheduled family meetings and telephone conversations between every member of the family is a practical way to address eldercare issues and delegate responsibilities evenly.” She says that the amount of help we receive from other siblings is directly related to the help we ask for. “Be specific about the kind of help you expect from family members. Don’t beat around the bush. Say ‘I need your help and this is what I need . . .’” Ideas for Long-Distance Caregiving Even if your aging parent doesn’t live nearby, there are still many ways you can be involved in their care (and lift some of the burden off the care-taking sibling).

Tai Chi... your path to Health, Longevity & Relaxation Join us for our OPEN HOUSE Saturday, January 9 9 a.m. - Noon Taoist Tai Chi Society ® 3666-A Debby Drive 334-832-1907

Beginners Class starts in January. For a complete schedule visit www.taoist.org

Be the accountant. Most businesses, utilities and merchants will send the bill to your address. Set up a separate checking account, complete with an amount to cover the regular monthly bills. Offer to keep track of all-important papers that will be needed come tax time. Prepare or have the taxes prepared. n Be the secretary. Keep a mailing list and help send out holiday greetings from your mom or dad. You can also help with buying birthday cards (maybe a month’s worth at a time). n Be the information gatherer. Making phone calls to find the right information is time consuming, but a job that can be done from anywhere. Provide help and resources to get your parent’s legal affairs in order or updated. n When you’re in town, take some of the load off the main caregiver by offering to do routine jobs -- grocery shopping, yard work, car maintenance. n

No matter how much you love your parents and your children, being a full-time caretaker will take its toll. Take comfort in the fact that what you are doing is from a loving and giving place in your heart. You can’t do it all, but what you do accomplish is done with affection, devotion and caring. Accept yourself by giving yourself a break. It’s the best gift you can give to your spouse, your kids and your parents. www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

FEATURE

Market Mystique Story by Andrea Gross Photos by Irv Green

expect Seattle’s Pike Market to be colorful, crowded and caffeinated, as befits the city that birthed Starbucks, but I don’t expect flying salmon.Yet here are men in white aprons flipping giant fish with the ease that most folks flip pancakes. One of the fishmongers grins as a salmon slips onto the counter and somersaults into a bin. “Want one?” he asks. I decline and walk on to see the flowers, which smell infinitely better. Like other urban markets, Pike Market reflects its surroundings. Salmon in Seattle? Of course. (Taste them in a market restaurant or have them shipped to your home.) Gator-burgers in New Orleans? (Eat them on the spot.) Clam chowder in Boston? Most definitely.

November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

Although in some cities commercial establishments have moved in, the emphasis in urban markets is always on locally sourced food and regionally unique products. That’s what makes them so much fun for the traveler. Seattle’s Pike Market: the country’s oldest continuously operating market (www.pikeplacemarket.org) My husband and I weave past performers strumming guitars, dodge groups of tourists, and inhale the strong smells of curry, kimchee, coffee and chocolate.Vendors ply us with samples: a handful of dried fruit, a slice of apple, a chunk of cantaloupe and the best chocolate-covered cherry I’ve ever tasted. No wonder, since Washington is the top sweet cherry producing state in the nation. Washington also grows more onions than any other state, and Pike Market owes its existence to onion-hungry citizens, pricegouging middlemen, and a

sympathetic politician. In response to his constituents, who were furious that the price of onions had risen dramatically, Seattle Councilman Thomas Revelle suggested that farmers set up shop on an empty street corner and sell directly to their customers. In August 1907 eight farmers did just that. Their produce sold out within hours, and the business practices of Seattle were forever changed. Now, 108 years later, more than 100 farmers and 200 craftsmen and women rent space at the market, which has expanded to cover nine acres. New Orleans’ French Market: America’s oldest public market (www.frenchmarket.org) Seattle’s market may hold the title of the oldest continuously operating market, but New Orleans’ French Market predates it by more than 100 years. Above & Below: Pike Market, Seattle It began as a Native American trading post in 1791 but quickly grew into a multi-ethnic hub as new arrivals flooded the area. Now vendors sell everything from homegrown food to handmade crafts, many of which feature fleur-de-lis in one form or another — on mugs, door knockers, T-shirts and neckties. I’m not into fleur-de-lis décor, and I can easily pass on alligator models and Mardi Gras masks, but I succumb to temptation when I see a handmade voodoo doll. After all, you never know when a little magic might come in handy. The food presents a bigger problem. Do I want gator meat on a stick, in a burger or atop a salad? And then there’s the muffuletta, a deli sandwich favored by Sicilian farmers who were selling their goods at the market. We look at the sandwich, a layered powerhouse consisting of a marinated olive salad, three meats and two cheeses. It’s a tough call. We opt for both.

, Ristorante

Greek & Italian Cuisine

Top favorites of Mr. Gus’ customers: Eggplant Parmesan • Chicken Parmesan Come in and find out why.

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

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

6268 Atlanta Highway • Montgomery AL• 334-356-4662

*Where Montgomery meets for Saturday breakfast. www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

Faneuil Hall Marketplace: the nation’s first Festival Market (www.faneuilhallmarketplace.com) Some folks call it Faneuil Hall Marketplace; others call it Quincy Market. Either way, it’s a favorite meeting place for Bostonians and one of the city’s top visitor attractions. The area was first a public food market, then the site of an historic hall where a reception was held for George Washington. Later, in the nineteenth century, it was the home of one of the largest market complexes in the country. But despite its storied history, by the early 1970s it was simply a group of decaying buildings, and the city wanted to tear them down. Instead, some concerned citizens turned them into a “festival marketplace,” the first one in the United States. The old Faneuil

Hall and Quincy Market became a “festival” of stores, restaurants and pubs, thus revitalizing not only the old buildings but the surrounding area as well. We snack and wander — taste-testing clam chowder and baked beans, admiring pewter mugs and trying on T-shirts that celebrate Boston colleges and sports teams. Our last stop is at Make Way for Ducklings, a bookstore that honors Robert McCloskey’s classic tale of a group of Bostonian mallards. I resist buying my granddaughter a toy mallard imprinted with the word “Boston,” and instead get her a book of Mother Goose rhymes. She may as well learn now that the little pig who went to market had a lot more fun than the ones who stayed home.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace (a.k.a. Quincy Market), Boston

2014-15

Season Classical Season Concert I • Monday, October 12 • 7:30pm Concert II • Monday, November 23 • 7:30pm Concert III • Monday, December 14 • 7:30pm Concert IV • Monday, February 15 • 7:30pm Concert V • Monday, April 25 • 7:30pm

Kris Kendrick

Fellowship Series

Violin, October 29 • 7:30pm Cello, November 8 • 2:30pm Cello, December 3 • 7:30pm Cello, January 10 • 2:30pm Violin, February 7 • 2:30pm Violin, May 12 • 7:30pm montgomerysymphony.org / 240-4004 November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

SOCIAL SECURITY

“The conversation is growing every day. We’re doing our best to serve you, and a big part of that is listening to what you have to say.”

Social Security: talk about it N

Kylle’ McKinney

ovember is National Blog Posting Month, which means there’s never been a better time to join the conversation with Social Security. We recently launched our new blog, Social Security Matters. The blog is our interactive center for engaging with you by answering questions and concerns in a way that benefits all readers and con-

M CA Fi t n e ss Ce n t e r 2119 East S. Blvd. 334-280-1409

• Customized exercise programs for ALL fitness levels • Blood pressure checks before & after exercise • Indoor walking track • Convenient parking • Full line of cardiovascular & strength training equipment • Friendly atmosphere • Flexible hours

Monday-Friday 6 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. A Montgomery Cardiovascular Associates Facility

tributors. Social Security Matters also lets you provide meaningful feedback that can help us serve you more effectively. The blog’s comment section allows you to voice your thoughts and ask questions. The conversation is growing every day. We’re doing our best to serve you, and a big part of that is listening to what you have to say. Think of Social Security Matters as a dashboard for the latest news and updates that affect our beneficiaries. These beneficiaries include those of our retirement, survivors, and disability programs.Veterans, the chronically ill, and anyone entitled to our broad range of services can also benefit from the news and updates. Social Security Matters is easy-to-navigate and user-friendly — tags categorize the topics you care about into organized sections. Our blog joins our presence on Facebook and Twitter to ensure that you’ll always find the information and online resources you’re looking for. Blog posts aren’t a one-way conversation. We’d like you to share the items that interest you. Using your preferred social media, Social Security Matters lets you share our posts with a click of a button. In addition, you can subscribe to our blog and get Social Security news as it happens. Simply select the blue button titled “Get blog updates.” We’re updating our blog every week, and not just during National Blog Posting Month. Come see what we, and our satisfied customers, have to say.Visit Social Security Matters today at blog.socialsecurity.gov. Kylle’ McKinney, SSA Public Affairs Specialist, can be reached by e-mail at kylle.mckinney@ssa.gov. www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

IN EVERY LIFE

Dementia Awareness Month N

ovember is Dementia Awareness Month. Dementia can be loosely translated as de=without and mentia=mind processes. Dementia is a slow, progressive loss of abilities of the mind. Dementia can be confused with delirium (a more sudden change from usual thinking ability), or Arlene Morris with depression (a separate process affecting thinking ability). Individuals and/ or their families may initially notice slight difficulty remembering tasks, names, and/ or locations. These subtle signs should be discussed with a healthcare provider to allow individualized assessment for possible improvement of contributing factors. Noticing symptoms can help determine the cause and is therefore the most appropriate treatment for changes in thinking. Although Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is commonly associated with dementia, there are many other issues that can affect the processes of the mind: infections, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, effects of alcohol, medication, head injury, small or large blood clots to the brain (vascular dementia), disease processes such as Parkinson’s, Lewy Body, Pick’s Disease, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and others. Improvements in assessment of dementia include blood testing or computerized brain scans, but thorough documentation of behavior changes and the time of day they occur can provide vital information useful for identifying possible underlying issues. See the National Institutes of Aging website for more information (https://www.nia.nih.gov/ alzheimers/topics/other-dementias). Dementia’s progressive nature allows for anticipation of various behaviors over time. The Alzheimer’s Association provides a reference for possible behavior changes, and suggestions to address these concerns while the person has mental capacity to make decisions and plan for increasing care needs (http://www.alz.org/care/ alzheimers-dementia-stages-behaviors.asp). For example, a legal document to designate a durable power of attorney for health care (DPA-HC) can be completed to

November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

clarify one’s wishes as to who should provide information if/when the individual, himself, is no longer able to do so. The Alzheimer’s Association’s website also provides suggestions for family, friends, or paid caregivers who are supporting someone experiencing increased impairment in memory or thinking. Continuing to focus on overall health — through nutrition, hydration, exercise, and use of medications for other health concerns — is critical. Facial expressions, body stance, and tone of voice (non-verbal communication) are perceived to a greater extent than actual words (verbal communication), indicating the need for intentional use of reassuring non-verbal messages. Keeping a calm, familiar environment, using relaxing music, limiting sudden changes, using short simple requests, and trying to determine the possible basis for behaviors are all helpful approaches. One behavior, for example, may be agitation. A care provider needs to determine what is likely causing the behavior — possibly pain, hunger, restless energy, needing to go to the toilet, etc. Trying to meet the underlying need can help to decrease difficult behaviors, but it may take multiple attempts to determine and meet the need. Local area agencies on aging (AAA) provide additional resources and support groups. Caregivers are crucial, and care must be taken to avoid burnout/depletion of their reserves. Extended family and community resources can help with individual needs and caregiving. In this way, the health of the care recipient and caregiver can be prolonged, and, hopefully, institutionalization can be prevented. Additional information is available from the National Institute on Aging’s Alzheimer Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center (https://www.nia.nih. gov/alzheimers) and may be helpful. Arlene Morris, EdD, RN, CNE, is Professor of Nursing at Auburn Montgomery's School of Nursing and Immediate Past President of the Ala. State Nurses Association. Reach her at amorris@aum.edu.

ACROSS 1 “Mad Men” productions 4 Bark elicitor 9 Lax 13 Force (open) 14 Close-fitting dress 15 Powerful dept.? 16 Striking painting of paddles, net and ball? 19 Uber 20 Facebook button 21 Truncation abbr. 22 Austin of “Knot’s Landing” 23 Extraordinary northern bird? 26 Statistician’s challenge 28 Plot component 29 “__ thoughts?” 30 Reasonable 32 Purim heroine 34 Mythological figure who touched 16-, 23-, 46- and 55-Across? 36 Available 39 Anthony Hopkins’ “Thor” role 40 Channel for old films 43 Noodle 44 “I’m not kidding!”

46 Alaskan insects? 51 Chief Justice Warren 52 Subjects of some conspiracy theories 53 Specks on cartes 54 Enthralled 55 Overdevelop a high plain? 60 It may be cautionary 61 “I shall be late!” speaker of fiction 62 Letter director 63 Narrow opening 64 Indo-__ languages 65 Nixon has two DOWN 1 Angry Birds, e.g. 2 “Happy Days” setting 3 Cooperative action 4 “Dexter” airer, for short 5 Write 6 Scout rank 7 Top story 8 Uniform material 9 Sprinkling on French fries? 10 Free sample limitation 11 Top story 12 Cab driver? 14 One of a pair of Mad

adversaries 17 Off the __ 18 Arthur of “The Golden Girls” 22 Sched. uncertainty 23 Witness __ 24 Sharp feeling 25 Rowing beneficiaries, for short

Answers on page 30.

27 Z-zebra link 31 Dashboard Confessional’s genre 32 Changes, in a way 33 Without 34 Rosebud’s owner 35 “Cool, man!” 36 Things 37 __ color 38 Fictional pilot with the iconic line, “Laugh it up, fuzzball” 40 Circus staple 41 Sun block 42 “The Producers” screenwriter Brooks 45 Milk dispenser 47 Help 48 Uber 49 “The View” alum Joy 50 Milk carton words 54 Snitch 56 18th Amendment opposer 57 Cops’ org. 58 Harvard grad Jeremy who’s now a Laker 59 Rises 2015 Tribune Content Agency, Inc. © www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

FEATURE

Limit Holiday Stress By Lisa M. Petsche

he holiday season is a hectic time for many people, due to the preparations and festivities that typically take place. Enjoying this time of the year is even more of a challenge for those who don’t get along well with their extended family. Every family has dysfunction, of course, because no member is perfect. But some families are prone to more interpersonal tension than others, due to diverse personalities, circumstances, values and lifestyles among members. Here are suggestions for coping with the almost inevitable stress inherent when relatives get together. Preparation Make it a point to practice self-care. Eat healthy foods, make time for exercise and get adequate sleep. Allow plenty of time to get ready for a family event, so you’re relaxed and feel your best. Set realistic expectations about family members’ behavior. The narcissist, nonstop talker or chronic complainer is not going to change. Plan to steer clear of them if possible, otherwise limit time spent with them. Give yourself a pep talk. Reassure yourself that you are up to the challenge of gracefully handling a

November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

few hours with anyone. If necessary, pretend you have a role in a play and of course must stay in character. If you are particularly anxious about a gathering, invite a friend along for support. As a last resort, aim to cut your visit short. Plan something to look forward to afterwards. During a gathering: dos and don’ts Avoid consuming alcohol; otherwise, limit yourself to one or two drinks. Disinhibition can cause you to say things you may regret. Be conscious of your non-verbal language: avoid frowning and crossing your arms, make eye contact and nod periodically when listening. This will help you to come across positively. Show courtesy towards everyone. When you can’t manage any more politeness towards a particular individual, find a reason to excuse yourself. Conjure up compassion for relatives who emanate negativity, bearing in mind that they’re unhappy individuals. Give people the benefit of the doubt when you wonder if they’re being sarcastic or condescending. Use humor to defuse tension. Count to ten and refuse to take the bait when someone tries to one-up you or goad you into an argument. Instead, adopt a “stupid and cheerful” demeanor — signature advice from syndicated radio host and licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Joy Browne. Stay away from contentious topics and change the subject if others raise them. Don’t participate in gossip or put-downs of others, or bring up unpleasant events. Engage relatives positively by reminiscing about pleasant times or inquiring about something meaningful to them, such as their children or grandchildren, work, a hobby or a recent vacation. Breathe deeply if you find yourself getting stressed. If that doesn’t help, head to the washroom or step outside to compose yourself. Parting thoughts If you keep in mind that you can’t change anyone’s behavior except your own, and that it’s always within your power to be civil and, yes, even kind to a certain degree, you’ll make it through family events, perhaps even better than you anticipated. If things don’t go well in spite of your best efforts to be congenial, plan a vacation over the holidays next year, so you can have a guilt-free break from family functions and other sources of seasonal stress.

National Awards for Prime Prime was honored with two First Place national awards for Best Coverage of Topical Issues (“Memories of the March”) and Best Single Ad (All Ears Hearing Centers) at the North American Mature Publishers Association (NAMPA) annual convention. Prime also received four Second Place Honors for Travel, How-To, Briefs and Shorts, and Website excellence. NAMPA represents 38 publications in the U.S. and Canada with a combined readership of five million.

FEATURE

Blood of Heroes

Your hearing and your heart are connected.

Story and photos by Callie Corley

“A growing body of research shows that a person’s hearing health and cardiovascular health frequently correspond.”

Better Hearing Institute

Above: Marchers walk past Saint Margaret’s Hospital. Right: Singer Joan Baez (L) and actress Susan Sarandon joined the march.

Memories

Listen to your HEAR T this Valentines,

...and have your

HEAR ING tested.

of the

Compiled by Sandra Polizos

March

For many area residents memories of the Selma-to-Montgomery March are personal. Living in and around the Capital City in March of 1965, they were in the midst of a momentous news story which led to groundbreaking changes in American society. Viewed from a variety of vantage points, current and former area residents recall their memories of both the period and the history-altering event.

Topical Issue Coverage

6912 Winton Blount Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36117 334-281-8400

all

EARS

Hearing Centers

300 Medical Ave., Suite 2 Andalusia, AL 36420 334-427-2476

The Atlantic Wall was Hitler’s 3,300 mile defense network.This section was on Utah Beach.The marks are from the thousands of American weapons fired on the German-held beach on D-Day.

www.allearscenters.com

alking up Andrew Higgins Drive to the corner of Magazine Street, the National World War II Museum rises against the New Orleans skyline like a giant stone vault, holding the history, and perhaps some secrets, of what’s been termed America’s “Greatest Generation.” It’s a history touching every facet of American life. Sixteen million men and women served in the armed forces during World War II. Inside the museum’s five (soon to be six) buildings are the stories of those lives. For many, those stories are also passed down on family trees from generation to generation. The Louisiana Memorial Pavilion is the place to start your journey through the Museum. There you can buy tickets and talk to Museum volunteers. With a little luck, you’ll hear a first-hand account from one of the approximately 20 WWII veterans who volunteer with the Museum.The Memorial Pavilion is also where you start your “Dog Tag Experience.” With a general admission ticket to the Museum, you receive a dog tag allowing you to follow the life of a WWII participant. The Train Car Experience is your first stop with your dog tag, recreating the first leg of a journey that carried millions of Americans away from their families and into service. Throughout the museum you check-in at different stations, collecting the stories for your dog tag and learning more about the person whose life you’re following. If your museum trip starts early, Jeri Nims Soda Shop is a great place to grab a snack or a quick breakfast, while The American Sector is a full-service restaurant serving lunch and dinner.You can add a little flair to your visit with a live show at Stage Door Canteen, where music of the war years comes to life. Find the show lineup and ticket information on-line before your visit at stagedoorcanteen.org. Once you leave the Memorial Pavilion, cross the street to the main portion of the WWII Museum. The newest addition, added in 2014, is Campaigns of Courage, considered the heart of the museum experience. The Road to Berlin exhibit showcases the grueling challenges servicemen faced in the European theater, from the deserts of North Africa to Germany’s doorstep. The

Travel Feature

Color Ad

Trip-of-A-Lifetime Planning Your By Judy Stone Weaver

trip around the world may sound a bit over the top, but if you take time to plan it, based on your available funding and time, it could be a cherished trip-of-a-lifetime. Our experience (and mistakes) from the year 2000, when my husband and I traveled to 10 countries in 103 days, is shared here to assist with the fun creation of your own trip. Planning your Air Ticket Designing an around-the-world itinerary begins with your bucket-list — the places you want to visit as well as the time and budget you can devote to your travels. Typically, purchasing an around-the-world ticket is cheaper than booking individual flights.You must travel in one direction, east or west. There are other rules, as well, such as a minimum and maximum number of stopovers and the duration of the trip. The price point is based on the number of miles and stopovers you plan. Today, there are several on-line planners that help you experiment with your itinerary, the dates of travel, and the cost. For example, using Delta’s www.skyteam.biz planning template, I just created a three-month, 31,646-mile itinerary that costs $5,610 plus tax and fees, for one economy class ticket. (The business class version costs $12,210.) Originating in Atlanta, the itinerary has stops in Dublin, Athens, Rome, Paris, Oslo, Singapore, Perth, Sydney, and back to Atlanta. Using www.Staralliance.com, another possibility for around-the-world tickets, the same economy itinerary priced out at an estimated $4,815 plus tax and fees. The business class version costs an estimated $9,986. (The taxes can add as much as $2,000, depending on which airports you’re flying into.) But don’t book your tickets just yet…

How-To Feature

Bou Cou & costumes (sizes toddler to adult) Booties • Leg Warmers Leotards • Tights Shoes • Dance Bags Praisewear • Stage Make-up

• LARGEST inventory in the River Region • FREE alterations on purchased items • COMPETITIVE prices • CUSTOM fitting

“Bloch Warm-up Booties... light, soft and very warm.” Ballet News

The Courtyard • 2101 Eastern Blvd. • 334-239-0655 • www.boucou.net www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

Visit Prime’s Facebook Page for a chance to win two tickets to the Montgomery Area Council on Aging’s 11th Annual “International Tasting.” (www.facebook.com/primemontgomery)

November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

MEDICARE

Health/Drug Plans: 5 Things to Know By Bob Moos

ow’s the time for Alabamians with Medicare to look over their health and drug coverage for 2016. Medicare’s annual open enrollment period runs through Dec. 7. Even if you’ve been satisfied with your health and drug plans, you may benefit from reviewing all your options. Some plans have adjusted their out-of-pocket costs and benefit packages for next year. Shopping around may save you money or improve your coverage. Here are five things to know as you sort through the many Medicare health and drug plans available for 2016. Generally, health and drug plan premiums will be stable next year. Alabamians in Medicare’s original fee-for-service program can choose from 24 drug plans with monthly premiums ranging from $18.40 to $117.20 — about the same premium range as last year. The average premiums for basic drug plans will inch up 91 cents to $32.50 per month. Alabamians who prefer an alternative to the traditional Medicare program may join a Medicare Advantage health plan sold by a private insurer.You can select from among three to 16 health plans, depending on where you live in the state. Most plans include drug coverage. The average premiums for Medicare Advantage plans will drop 31 cents to $32.60 per month. Look beyond premiums, though. The only way to determine the true cost of your coverage is to consider other factors like deductibles, co-payments and coinsurance. Medicare’s website — www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan — has the best tool for helping you narrow your search for a new health or drug plan. Check the quality of a health or drug plan’s service, too. To help you identify the best and worst Medicare plans in your area, www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan has provided star ratings for each. A gold star shows those plans with the highest, five-star rating. A warning icon alerts you to plans that have performed poorly for the past three years. Higher-rated plans deliver a higher level of care, such as managing chronic conditions efficiently, screening for and preventing illnesses, and making sure people get muchneeded prescriptions. Higher-rated plans also provide better customer service, with fewer complaints or long waits for care. The well-publicized star ratings have spurred many health and drug plans to improve their performance

“Shopping around may save you money or improve your coverage.”

over the last several years. About 65 percent of Medicare Advantage enrollees are now in health plans with four or more stars, a significant increase from 17 percent in 2009. If you need help comparing health or drug plans, it’s readily available. There are four places to turn for assistance: n Visit www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan to compare your current coverage with new health or drug plans. If you want to make a change, the website will guide you to where to enroll in a new plan. n Call Medicare’s help line at 1-800-633-4227 at any hour and talk with a customer service representative. n Consult your “Medicare & You 2016” handbook, which you should have received in the mail in the last few weeks. The book may also be viewed at www.medicare.gov. n Get one-on-one benefits counseling through your State Health Insurance Assistance Program. In Alabama, you may call 1-800-243-5463 for the counselors nearest you. If you’re on a tight budget, see whether you can get help paying for your prescriptions. If you’re having difficulty affording medications, you may qualify for the government’s “extra help” program. The amount of help depends on your income and resources. Generally, you’ll pay no more than $2.95 for each generic drug and $7.40 for each brand-name drug in 2016. To qualify, your annual income can’t be more than $17,655 if you’re single or $23,895 if you’re married. Also, your resources can’t exceed $13,640 if you’re single or $27,250 if you’re married. Savings and investments count as resources, but homes, cars and personal belongings do not. Thirty-seven percent of Alabamians with a Medicare drug plan get extra help. To apply, visit the Social Security website, at www.socialsecurity.gov/i1020, or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. If you think you’ve been the victim of a plan’s deceptive marketing, report it. Medicare closely monitors plans’ marketing activities to make sure they comply with the law. No one should have to put up with high-pressure sales tactics. If you believe you’ve been given incorrect or misleading information or enrolled in a drug or health plan without your consent, and you haven’t been able to resolve the issue with the plan, call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227 or send an email to surveillance@cms.hhs.gov. There’s no better time to check your Medicare coverage. Any changes you make will take effect on Jan. 1. Bob Moos is the Southwest public affairs officer for the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

PRIME DIVERSIONS

Recent dvd releases The Overnight and Trainwreck

The Overnight (R) An attractive, loving couple (Adam Scott, Taylor Schilling) has just moved to Los Angeles with their young son. They've not had time to start building a social life. A chance meeting at a nearby park with another father (Jason Schwartzman) and his boy leads to a dinner invitation for what could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship for the families. Schwartzman's wife (Judith Godreche) is equally warm and friendly. Their home is spectacular; their combined interests, accomplishments and charisma are the stuff dreams are made of. After the boys are tucked away in their beds, the evening progresses for the adults. Everything about the hosts seems too wonderful to be true. They must have some dark secrets or hidden agendas. No one could be that perfect, or so unreservedly welcoming to newcomers, even in Hollywood comedies. Without giving away too much of the plot, suffice it to say that the long evening of getting acquainted dangles aspects of Lewis Carroll's Through the Looking Glass and a signature dramedy from the late 1960s, Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice. The R rating is for sexual elements, visually and otherwise. The hosts seem to be pushing the intimacy envelope, but their game plan remains elusive. Most of the film has viewers wondering how far will, or should, their sharing go, and what will that mean for any of them beyond the moment? Much is bared - physically and psychologically - throughout the night. The script's humor is tempered with curiosity about what we don't know about the hosts' characters and motivations, which could lie anywhere from ultra-hip to adventurous to Satanic. The performances are very good all around, teasing the audience as much as each other with vague disconnects between facades and inner truths. It's like stud poker - the cards everyone sees aren't the ones that determine who wins. Overall, the film is intriguing, if not compelling, and should prove to be positive career moves for all four principals - especially Scott and Schilling, who are much better known for their TV roles than from feature films. Bigger just might be better.

Trainwreck (R) Amy Schumer is a terrific stand-up comic. Her cherubic looks provide counterpoint for the hip, sexual parts of her act. She's crafted a likable image of an insecure single gal, assuming the path to happiness must be fueled by libido.That has further blossomed in her sketch series on Comedy Central, which also allows stretching of her acting chops while remaining reliably funny, often hilarious, and surprisingly insightful. Her success convinced Judd Apatow to direct this romantic comedy, with Schumer 32 November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

starring in her own screenplay opposite Bill Hader, and backed by a slew of familiar faces.The film contains plenty of laughs and surprises, but falls short of adding up to a Mark Glass cohesive and satisfying package. Schumer plays a smart writer for a lurid magazine. The film deals with how she grew up â&#x20AC;&#x201D; convinced that true love was a myth â&#x20AC;&#x201D; leading to her adult life of boozy boinks, mostly with a parade of anonymous one-and-done dudes. Mr. Right seemed as likely to exist as Sasquatch, making Mr. Right Now the only attainable goal. But when she's assigned to do a feature on a hugely successful, but socially inept, sports doctor (Hader), she's surprised by his interest and her unprecedented receptivity. That immediately scares the hell out of her, leading to self-protective distancing. The role epitomizes her career persona to date. So what went wrong? Schumer is one of her series' writers, and likely the most influential, if not prolific. Her roots in skits and monologs show here, as many lines and scenes are worthy of her highlight reel, without adding up to the character development or plot cohesion a feature film requires. The whole turns out less than the sum of its parts, because too many laughs come without contributing to the big picture. Hader's practice opens the door for a bunch of pro athletes (and one announcer) to appear. At first, LeBron James playing a dopey version of himself is delightful. But that caricature wears thin, and eventually seems embarrassing; same for a few of the other jocks and that announcer. Amar'e Stoudemire might be the comedy winner among the sports set. Schumer and Apatow generously provide spots for a herd of fellow comics, from veterans like Colin Quinn and Dave Attell, to relative newcomers like Nikki Glaser and Bridget Everett, and a few of Hader's former SNL cohorts. They add to the fun, as do Daniel Radcliffe and Marisa Tomei in a weirdly appealing sidebar. Tilda Swinton and John Cena, neither of whom is known for comedy, chip in surprising variations from their norms, as well. The other problem may be Apatow. A lifelong comedy junkie who started in stand-up before emerging as a rom-com king should have retained a better sense of timing. His recent movies have been running longer than the material warrants, sapping the energy and undermining the punch of their high points. The man who created hits like The 40-Year-Old Virgin and Pineapple Express seemed sharper than the one at the helm of This is Forty and Trainwreck. Apatow is returning to his standup roots for a while. Maybe live audiences will remind him why brevity was so famously called the soul of wit.

November Calendar Gardening Lunch & Learn: FREE “Bulbs for the Garden” (Nov. 4); “Succulents are Addictive” (Dec.2). Free. Noon-1 pm. Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Ave, Montgomery. Bring sack lunch. Drinks provided. Capital City Master Gardener Assn. For info contact Mtgy. Co. Extension Office (334) 270-4133. Brewery Collectibles Buy, Sell, Swap: FREE Brewery Collectibles Club of America. Nov. 7, 8 am-2 pm, American Legion Post 44, 6781 State Highway 59, Gulf Shores, AL. Free admission. For information contact Ray Kynard, 334272-1823, jrkynard@yahoo.com. Alzheimer’s Care Workshop Nov. 7, 9 am-noon. Free. RSVP by Fri., Oct. 30. HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital. For those taking care of someone with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. For more information contact Michelle Morgan 334-215-9577, or michelle.morgan@homeinstead.com. Course approved by HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital for 3 CEUs. “Planning for Life After” Seminar Free seminar and complimentary lunch ((first time attendees only). Nov. 10, 11:30 am. Dignity Memorial will answer your questions about funerals, cemeteries and cremation. CaraVita Village, 4000 Fieldcrest Dr, Montgomery. RSVP to 334-2840370 or visit www.caravitavillage.com. Ballet Dress Rehearsal: FREE for Military Nov. 12, 7 pm. Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. Alabama Dance Theatre opens its Dress Rehearsal to military families in the River Region free of charge (active duty, retirees, reserve, National Guard personnel and families with a valid military ID card). Tickets at the door and at Maxwell/Gunter ITT. Ballet Performance Mistletoe. Alabama Dance Theatre, Nov.13 (7:30 pm), 14 & 15 (2:30 pm), Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. Tickets $15-$30. Reserved and general admission available.Visit www. alabamadancetheatre.com. For more information call 334241-2800. 11th Annual International “Tasting” Montgomery Area Council on Aging. Nov. 15, 2:30-4:30 pm. Southern Homes & Gardens, 8820 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery. International cuisine, entertainment, cultural surprises. “Invitation Only” charity benefit for MACOA. To learn how to be added to the guest list contact Chacolby BurnsJohnson, Dev. Coordinator, 334-2630532, or cjohnson@macoa.org. (See page 30 for how to win tickets.)

Singer/Songwriters Joe Thomas, Jr. Guitar Pull, Nov. 17, 7-9 pm. Cloverdale Playhouse, Old Cloverdale. Songwriters perform/discuss their music. $10 (includes beverages). For info call 334-2621530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Newcomers Club of Montgomery Newcomers Club of Montgomery monthly luncheon. Nov. 19, 11:30 am-1:30 pm. Arrowhead CC. Guest speaker. $18. Reserve space by noon Nov. 16. Endocrinologist Dr. Mary Casals is guest speaker. Call Jan Burdette 334-593-9266, or email jan8419@bellsouth.net. For more information visit www. newcomersmontgomery.com. Personal Document Shredding: FREE Nov. 20, 7 am-1 pm. south parking lot, Garrett Coliseum, 1555 Federal Dr., Montgomery. Montgomery Clean City Commission. Up to five bags/boxes of personal information can be shredded. Private residential shredding only. No sorting. Equipment can destroy paper clips, staples, rubber bands. Shredded paper will be recycled. Consider bringing non-perishable food item(s) to benefit Montgomery Area Food Bank. For information call 334-625-2175. Interfaith Nativity Exhibit: FREE Dec. 2-6, 1-8 pm daily. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3460 Carter Hill Rd., Montgomery. More than four hundred nativities/crèches. Musical performances every half hour. Public encouraged to loan their nativities for the exhibit. For information call 334-224-6455. Volunteer: AL Dept of Archives & History All ages, with hours to match your schedule. Lead tours, greet visitors, work in the Museum Stores, work with staff in archive collections. Contact Kathy Logan, 334-353-4745, kathy. logan@archives.alabama.gov.Visit www.museum.alabama.gov/ getinvolved. Volunteer: Mtgy Area Council on Aging — Respite Care: companionship for hospice patients — Medical Outreach Ministries (M.O.M.): office help — Habitat for Humanity: office help — Old Alabama Town: guides, reception desk — Baptist Hospital East & South: reception desks — John Knox Manor: activities with residents Contact Allison Shehane (Mtgy. Co.) 334-782-7254, ashehane@macoa.org; Shirley Stewart (Autauga, Elmore Co.s), 334-595-0841, sastewart@macoa.org. Grief, Divorce, Adoption Support Groups Millbrook First United Methodist Church. Grief: Sundays, 5–7 p.m. Divorce: Sundays, 5-7 p.m. Adoption: 4th Tuesday 6-7:30 p.m. For information call the church office, 334- 285-4114 or email churchoffice@mfumc.org.

www.primemontgomery.com | November 2015

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

A Pleasant Surprise “Roostertails,” he mumbled, dejected, peering into the tackle box. “Of all the lures. Roostertails.” He’d set the tackle box with the spoons, buck-tail jigs and other assorted saltwater lures by the back door so he’d be sure not to leave it behind. Considering all his tackle boxes looked alike, had the culprit been anyone other than himself, it would have been an easy enough mistake to forgive. Except it wasn’t. The similarity of his tackle boxes was little consolation as he sat on the beach, arms resting on the tops of his bare knees, sun rising over his left shoulder, surveying the wide open Gulf. Two hundred miles away a small plastic box whose contents were worth a mere twenty dollars held, at this moment, a much greater value. Had he been fishing even once this year, sticking the wrong tackle box amid the mountain of luggage, diaper bags and baby toys would not have been as significant. There was a time when not a week went by he didn’t wet a line — fly rod, spinning rod, bait caster, trolling. It didn’t matter the fishing style or type of equipment, so long as the fish were biting. But then life took over. Work demands grew as did familial responsibilities, and suddenly there was no time for fishing. He looked forward to any reason to be away from the office, but this beach trip especially because his oldest child had begun to show an interest in the pursuit he so enjoyed. He’d catch himself daydreaming of pulling bull redfish up on the sand, waves rolling over their glimmering copper bodies, as his daughter stood alongside beaming with pride and giddy with excitement. “Daddy,” she’d say, “you got a big one!” and they’d both smile for the picture he’d later frame and place prominently on his desk, the way it certainly would have gone except for his tackle box error. His wife’s voice brought him back to reality. “I thought you were going fishing?” she asked perplexed, their infant son bouncing on her hip and strangely mirroring the same expression. He explained his plight, how he’d grabbed the wrong lures, and that it would be a wasted effort. He even showed her the box of Roostertails as proof. Undeterred, she pointed to a silver one with a red skirt. “Ooh,” she said encouragingly. “Why don’t you try that one?” She clearly didn’t understand the gravity of the situation, he realized, and further explanation would prove futile. It was simple: fish were smart, fishermen, not so much. It would be pointless, and anyone walking by would go home and talk 34

November 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

about that crazy tourist casting bass lures from the beach. He sighed, stood up and began breaking down his rod and reel. “You know, there’s someone who really wants to fish with her daddy,” his wife said, a bit of force now gracefully present in her tone. He looked at his daughter playing in the sand and half-smiled. “Hey, baby,” you want to go fishing?” he asked. They waded to the second sandbar, his daughter on his shoulders holding the rod, bass lures tucked under his arm. “Catch me a fish Daddy! Catch me a fish!” she said as he cast the red-skirted Roostertail into the trough of dark water straight ahead. He was reeling steadily and holding his breath, hoping that failing the first time wouldn’t diminish her enthusiasm, when his line stopped like it hit a wall. “Seaweed,” he muttered, preparing to jerk the rod and clear the lure of the debris, when the sound of line peeling from his reel stopped him. He pumped and reeled, gaining on the fish, and in a few moments had a small but heavily-muscled Jack Crevalle in his hand. He held the fish up to pry the Roostertail from its mouth, both of them equally surprised to see the other. He looked at his wide-eyed daughter, a smile extending across her face. “Can I touch it?” she asked. She marveled at the fish’s smooth skin and coloring. He told her the fish’s name, tossed the Jack back into the surf, and cast into the trough again. Two turns of the reel’s handle yielded another strike. He drove the hook home and the drag proceeded to sing its beautiful song, one he hadn’t heard in some time. His daughter wanted to touch every fish they caught, eventually working her way up to holding the rod and doing some of the reeling. When the skin between his middle and ring finger began to ache from fighting the little Jacks, they turned back toward shore. “Well, how did you do?” his wife asked as they stepped out of the water. “We lost count,” he said, with a smile as wide as his daughter’s. “She’s hooked. And me, well, I may have a new favorite lure. And a new fishing partner.” Niko Corley is a USCG-licensed charter boat captain and spends his free time on the water or in the woods. To contact him e-mail niko.corley@gmail.com.

Niko Corley

“Surprisingly affordable!” TM

Wesley Gardens Retirement Community 1555 Taylor Road

“...where life is celebrated... and the touch of God’s love is ever-present and ageless.”

• Montgomery, AL

334-272-7917 www.methodisthomes.org

AFFORDABLE ASSISTED LIVING & DEMENTIA CARE

We have one goal. To bring sound back to life. Your life.

all

EARS

Hearing Centers

6912 Winton Blount Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36117 334-281-8400 6912 Winton Blount Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36117 334-281-8400

all

EARS

Hearing Centers www.allearscenters.com

300 Medical Ave., Suite 2 Andalusia, AL 36420 300 Medical Ave., Suite 2 334-427-2476 Andalusia, AL 36420 www.allearscenters.com 334-427-2476