Prime Magazine Oct 2015 by Bob Corley

Prime FREE FOR YOU

Celebrating Midlife and Beyond

Joyce Randolph

Last of “The Honeymooners”

7 Myths About Breast Cancer (page 18)

October 2015

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Prime I

EDITOR’S NOTE

MONTGOMERY

October 2015 Vol. 6, Issue 7

PUBLISHER Bob Corley, primemontgomery@gmail.com EDITOR Sandra Polizos, primeeditor@gmail.com ART DIRECTOR Callie Corley, primemagdesign@gmail.com WRITERS Andrea Atkins, Andrea Gross, Claire Yezbak Fadden, Judy Weaver CONTRIBUTORS Betsy Coley, Niko Corley, Mark Glass, Martha Johnson, Kylle’ McKinney, Bob Moos, Arlene Morris, Nick Thomas, Alan Wallace PHOTOGRAPHERS Irv Green, 123rf.com 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.

October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

’ve never met a cookbook I didn’t like. From the Times Picayune’s Cajun recipes, to Ina Garten’s homestyle and party volumes, to random works extolling glorious church picnics and delectable foreign cuisines, a good cookbook stirs my imagination. Not unlike an interesting story, it’s fun to see the various ingredients interact to create an exciting result. Among the dozens of beautifully photographed and artfully-written cookbooks I own, one stands out. Long past its prime, it’s an ugly book with no pictures and a broken plastic binding that now holds only half the book intact. The remaining loose pages —stained from repeated use —are perched alongside the book and carefully tied together by a single blue satin ribbon now frayed with age. A crippled relic, this cookbook is also my prize. It was my mother’s favorite, and contains the only set of recipes I ever saw her use. Printed in Charleston in the mid-1950s, Popular Greek Recipes is the first cookbook I remember. Its dog-eared pages contain recipes my young mother frequently prepared for our family: Avgolemono Soup, Stuffed Tomatoes, Lamb with Orzo, Constantinople-style Artichokes— dishes that were as central to my childhood as Chicken and Dumplings were to my husband’s young years. I thought everyone ate this high off the hog (or olive tree, in my case). The cookbook contains even greater treasures tucked between its printed pages — recipes Mom clipped over several decades, from the Atlanta Constitution, Birmingham Post Herald, and the Alabama Journal, as well as a slew of magazines she frequently read. I don’t remember that she cooked a one of these high-falutin’ concoctions, but imagine, instead, they were the dishes she fancied cooking someday for an elegant home dinner party. By far, the most precious (to me) aspect of the cookbook’s contents are my mother’s own handwritten messages and cooking details….when and where she’d eaten a dish she liked, and who made it. Her scrawled recipes run the gamut, from Lefty’s Chocolate Eclair Pie, to Vivian’s Jello Salad, to Tynes’ Clam Dip — and then the Greek ones (also written in Greek) — such as Kettie’s Pita, Nina’s Melomacarona, and Irene’s Paximadia. I’m happy browsing through these entries, as I remember not only the food, but also the people who caringly and lovingly shared their specialties with my mother — over afternoon coffee, during a late night phone conversation, at a church festival. The direct personal contact gave these aunts, cousins, and friends an opportunity to not only offer a recipe, but a life story as well. Several months ago I was asked by Troy Public Radio (TPR) to become a food contributor to their midday local program, providing special “old country” recipes handed down through generations of my family. I’m excited about the project, and look forward to each taping. Today’s technology makes it infinitely easier to share these special dishes with many people at the same time. That said, I’m hoping to share the source stories with TPR listeners as well: my memories of Mom, Dad and Yiayia not only cooking up their imaginative old world feasts, but also the funny, heartfelt stories that make the recipes come alive. Let me know how I do.

Sandra Polizos, Editor

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

October 2015

Table of Contents Editor’s Notes

Quick Reads

Yard ‘n Garden

A Gracious Plenty

Money Wi$e

Oh, My Aching Knees

History Mystery

Silly Bluejays

Social Security

Tinseltown Talks

7 Breast Cancer Myths Bras, deodorant, cell phones?

Journey to Grace A cancer survivor’s spiritual path

Macon, GA

In Every Life

Crossword & Sudoku

Marking Life’s Milestones Celebrating almost anything

Medicare

Prime Diversions

Calendar

Off the Beaten Path

Medicine n the garden

Hummus for us

Retirement: Now much to take Causes & remedies

Who ARE these people? A Prime reader’s bird encounter

Working with a disability

Last of the ‘Honeymooners’

Macon’s rich musical legacy Sleep: what we need, how to get it.

Selecting Home Healthcare

DVD Reviews: Spy; Overnight

The Fish Fry

www.primemontgomery.com | October 2015

Q UICK R EADS O ct o b er 20 1 5

Back to school, back to sleep Getting a good night’s sleep might buffer the impact of stress on kids’ cortisol level, a hormone produced in the adrenal gland to regulate the body’s cardiovascular, metabolic and immune systems. While shortterm exposure to cortisol prepares the body for the “fight

Glucosamine for Joint Pain? No. And yes. The best-designed studies on glucosamine as an effective pain reliever for knee pain caused by osteoarthritis found that, overall, glucosamine alone or in combination with chondroitin works no better than a placebo. It’s noteworthy that many studies showing a benefit from glucosamine were sponsored by companies that market the supplement. However, new evidence suggests glucosamine/chondroitin may offer an alternative treatment for some patients, in particular those who can’t take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), such as celecoxib (Celebrex®). In a large, government-sponsored trial of 1,600 people with knee osteoarthritis, 79% of a sub-group of subjects with moderate-to-severe pain reported significant pain reduction versus a smaller percentage of those who got a placebo. Take away: Glucosamine plus chondroitin may be an option for osteoarthritis patients with heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions that prevent them from taking NSAIDs. Research suggests further study to determine additional risks and benefits. — Scientific American Health After 50, HealthAfter50Alerts@sp.healthafter50.com

or flight” response, long-term exposure to cortisol can put people at risk for health problems like heart diseases, weight gain and depression. Better sleep, combined with other healthy lifestyle behaviors, can reduce the negative consequences of stress on kids’ cortisol levels.

October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

They should sleep 8 to 9 hours each night, have routine sleeping hours, avoid naps in the day, and avoid electronic devices before bedtime. Psychoneuroendocrinology — ScienceDaily, www.sciencedaily. com/releases/2015

Laughter and love Research has found when two strangers meet, the more times a man tries to be funny, and the more a woman laughs at those attempts, the more likely the woman is interested in the man. When both laugh together, it’s an even better indication of a romantic connection. The findings were among the discoveries made as part of a study looking for a connection between humor and intelligence. For the past decade, research has debated whether women appreciate men’s humor, which is often cited as one of the most valued traits in a partner, because it allows them to uncover the smarts of potential mates. Published on-line in the journal Evolutionary Psychology, the study found no link between humor and intelligence, but offered explanations regarding why humor is so important in finding partners: n humor points to having a sociable and agreeable personality; n men use humor to gauge if a woman is interested in them; n humor can be a pathway to a more long-lasting relationship. — ScienceDaily, www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015

Of mice and men (and asthma) Researchers have successfully established a causal relationship between exposure to so-called “farm dust” and protection against asthma and allergies. This breakthrough discovery, published in the journal Science, is a major step towards the development of an asthma vaccine. In addition to the causal relationship, the scientists discovered the mechanism behind this: farm dust makes the mucous membrane inside the respiratory tracts react less severely to allergens such as the house dust mite. The findings were the result of studies with mice. When tested in patients, it showed people suffering from allergies and asthma have a deficiency in a protective protein, a protein that helps reduce allergic and asthmatic reactions. The research was conducted at the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology Inflammation Research Center, and the University of Gent, in partnership with researchers from Munich, Rotterdam and Marseille. — ScienceDaily, www.sciencedaily.com/ releases/

Eating fish and cognitive decline Omega-3s are present in a variety of foods including flaxseed, canola oil, walnuts, and leafy green vegetables. The best dietary source of omega-3s is seafood, especially fatty fish. The benefits of seafood consumption on cognition have been reported in several large-scale dietary studies, including a 2004 study that found people who consumed fish once or more per week had a 60 percent lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s than those who didn’t eat as much. Moreover, protective benefits could be obtained from consuming fish in a variety of forms, including: tuna salad or tuna sandwiches, fish sticks, fish cakes or fish sandwiches, fresh fish, crab and lobster. A more recent study compared people who consumed one to two fish meals per week versus those with less than weekly fish consumption. The finding showed that, overall, fish eaters had less cognitive decline than non-fish eaters, equivalent to being three to four years younger in age. (NOTE: Nearly all fish and shellfish contain traces of mercury, exposure to which can cause serious neurological damage. However, the FDA and the EPA say the risk of mercury poisoning from eating fish and shellfish is negligible for most people, the exceptions being young children and women who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or are nursing. There are low-mercury seafood options, including cod, whitefish, mahi-mahi, ocean perch, flounder, salmon, clams, oysters, mussels, shrimp and lobster.) — Scientific American Health After 50, HealthAfter50Alerts@sp.healthafter50.com www.primemontgomery.com | October 2015

Living Apothecary

YARD ‘N GARDEN

By Betsy Coley

hat do dancing girls, caterpillars, beautiful flowers, delicious fruit, bees, and medicine all have in common? Answer: Passiflora, commonly known as Passionflower or Maypop. Native to the Southeastern U.S., this vine, with flowers resembling ballerina costumes, plays host to several native caterpillars, has delicious fruit, and attracts bees to its delightful blossoms. All that, and it is believed to have medicinal properties too. Visit the Auburn University Medicinal Plant Garden and within the 4,200 square foot planting area you’ll find Passiflora (Maypop) and nearly 100 additional species and varieties of plants with medicinal uses.There are fat purple beans, round red fuzzy ball blooms, and silky white flowers hidden at the base of a sheath of green leaves of the Turmeric plant, as well as the dancing-girl blooms of the Passiflora.The plantings also include Lemon Grass, Ginger, Lemon Balm, Purslane, Mountain Mint, and Blue Fortune.Through the ages, the leaves, buds, flowers, and rhizomes of these plants have been used to treat maladies ranging from upset stomachs and high blood pressure to migraines and skin cancer. Recent research indicates some of these plants may even have benefits related to cancer and Alzheimer’s Disease. The Auburn garden is a valuable outdoor classroom to teach interested individuals about the medicinal uses of plants. Guided public tours of the garden are offered April through October on the third Thursday of the month, while private tours are available by appointment. Entertaining and educational, the tours are led by garden curator Tia Gonzales and start with a plant sale followed by a walk through this botanical wonderland.The Medicinal Plant Garden is also open daily for self-guided tours. All plants are labeled with Latin and common names and on-site handouts list both names, family, and medicinal

uses of the plants in the garden. Weekend workshops focus on garden-related projects, such as making herb-infused vinegars.Workshop information is available on the Auburn University Medicinal Plant Garden’s Face Book page. Researchers at Auburn and other universities use the garden as a source of plant materials, as do growers and other individuals who can obtain seeds and plants from the facility. Originally created by Dr. Dennis Shannon as part of a research project, resources for the Medicinal Plant Garden have been extremely limited since the end of Shannon’s research. Support from the public is crucial to ensure the future of this valuable planting site for the people of Alabama. Gifts to the Medicinal Plant Garden, from in-kind donations to cash donations and corporate support, are welcome and are tax deductible as allowed by law.To support the Medicinal Plant Garden, contact Jordan Moseley at AU’s Development Office for the College of Agriculture. (334-8443472, jjmoo16@auburn.edu) Directions to the Medicinal Plant Garden: From the Auburn campus, drive south on South College Drive to traffic light at Woodfield Drive.Turn right and drive 0.2 mile.Turn right on gravel road.Turn right through first gate. Continue to grassy area to park. Garden is on right. Contact Information: Tia Gonzales, Garden Curator, Gonzats@auburn.edu, (334) 444-2857 www.FaceBook.com/AUMedicinalPlantGarden AUmedicinalplantgarden@gmail.com Betsy Coley, a Master Gardener in the Capital City Master Gardener Association since 2005, lives in Montgomery. For more information on becoming a master gardener, visit our website, www.capcitymga.org or email capcitymga@gmail.com.

Capital City Master Gardener Association FREE LUNCH & LEARN “Trees for Montgomery Soils and Climate” October 7, Noon – 1:00 p.m. Bring a Sack Lunch. Drinks Provided Armory Learning Arts Center 1018 Madison Avenue For more information contact the Montgomery County Extension Office (334) 270-4133. October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

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, a past two years. The area has village center, parks, green space, walking trails, fish- a wide variety of cafés, coffeehouses, sports bars, ing, 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, rehabilitathe world while you live tion 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 | October 2015

A GRACIOUS PLENTY

Add Variety to Game Day W

hile burgers and brats are the traditional tailgating fare and have their place on the menu, sometimes you need to mix things up when preparing that game day spread. For easy, delicious entertaining, add hummus to the tailgate menu. Available in more than a dozen flavors and made with fresh chickpeas and a touch of garlic and tahini, hummus is a great smooth and creamy accompaniment for chips, crackers, veggies and even tailgating favorites like chicken wings and burgers. Start your game day crowd off with a 7-layer hummus dip, the perfect blend of hummus, Greek yogurt, vegetables and cheese, and then serve up a hearty batch of Basil Pesto Hummus Pasta Salad, a main course sure to delight the home fans and bring them back week after week.

9 ounces Mediterranean Herb Greek Yogurt n 10 ounces Classic Hummus n pinch of salt n pinch of paprika n 1 tomato, diced n 2 roasted red peppers, halved then diced n Feta cheese, crumbled n 2 tablespoons minced flat leaf parsley n Kalamata olives, chopped for garnish (optional) n 1 bag pita chips n

BASIL PESTO HUMMUS PASTA SALAD Serves: 4-6 (as a main dish) n n n n n n n n n n n

In individual-serving cups, dollop Greek yogurt evenly over bottom of each cup. Top layer with portion of hummus, followed by another dollop of Greek yogurt. Sprinkle with salt and paprika. Top each cup with a handful of tomatoes, roasted red peppers and feta cheese. Garnish with parsley and olives. Serve with pita chips.

1 pound fusilli pasta 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, rough chopped 1 cup fennel (2 small bulbs), finely chopped 1/3 cup sundried tomatoes in olive oil, drained and chopped 3/4 cup roasted red pepper 1/2 cup chives, minced 1 container (10 ounces) of Basil Pesto Hummus 1 cup pasta cooking water, reserved black pepper, to taste 2 tablespoons olive oil fennel fronds for garnish

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1-cup pasta cooking water. Prepare all vegetables. In big bowl, toss vegetables with Basil Pesto Hummus. Add pasta and pasta water, stir to combine. Sprinkle with black pepper. Serve at room temperature, drizzle each portion with splash of olive oil and sprinkle fennel fronds overtop.

Prime Editor “Cooks” on Troy Public Radio Prime Editor Sandra Polizos recorded three recipes, based on her Greek ancestry, for Troy Public Radio’s In Focus program, hosted by Carolyn Hutcheson weekdays at noon. One has previously aired. The second recipe - dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves) - will air November 18. The third recipe - Greek-style green beans - will air December 9. (Recipes are at www.primemontgomery.com.) Troy Public Radio: WTSU 89.9 Montgomery/Troy; WRWA 88.7 Dothan; WTJB 91.7 Columbus, GA/Phenix City, AL 10

October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

Courtesy: Family Features. Source: sabra.com/recipes.

INDIVIDUAL 7-LAYER DIP Serves 8

MONEYWI $ E

A Sustainable Retirement Withdrawal Rate

ost retirees these days rely mainly on Social Security and a retirement account other than a traditional pension that pays a fixed monthly payment for life. The retirement account may have begun as an employersponsored profit sharing plan, 401(k), or similar plan before being rolled into an IRA. While the owner of an IRA may Alan Wallace withdraw as much as they wish each year after age 59½ without facing a tax penalty, withdrawals are generally taxable unless the source is a Roth IRA. Having the flexibility to withdraw more or less as circumstances dictate is good, but on the other hand, the more you withdraw today, the less you will have for tomorrow. So how do you estimate a sustainable monthly withdrawal from an IRA or Roth account? (Note that the IRS requires a certain minimum annual distribution from traditional IRAs starting at age 70½). Historically many advisors have felt that a withdrawal rate greater than 4% of the retirement account balance put the owner at risk of depleting principal too rapidly and running out of money. The question of a sustainable rate has been the focus of fresh examination in recent years because of the low interest rates resulting from Federal Reserve actions. The more conservative recent studies suggest that a withdrawal rate of 3.00-3.50% is a better rule of thumb than 4%. A fairly low withdrawal rate makes sense for those who need to stretch their retirement money over the rest of their lives for the following four reasons: 1) Investments in the IRA during retirement should be conservative or at least moderately so. Therefore, the rate of return will likely be lower than it was during the accumulation phase, perhaps an average of 3-5%/year. Taking withdrawals at a rate greater than the return on the account will consume principal and reduce the funds available to sustain future withdrawals. 2) Try as we might, investment managers cannot generate consistent results from year to year. Withdrawals in years when investment performance

suffers will typically absorb more principal. To compensate for annual return variability, prudence suggests taking a smaller stream of withdrawals from the account. 3) The uncertainty of how long you (and your spouse, if married) will live means that you need to reserve resources in case you live longer than expected. Life expectancy statistics are averages: Half the population doesn’t live that long and the other half lives longer. Since most folks prefer to run out of time before they run out of money, it makes sense to take out less today to conserve more for later. 4) Situations will probably arise that require an extra withdrawal in some years. Such occasions necessarily leave less to cover future needs. Going back to the original question, it can be phrased in two ways: What stream of payments can I reasonably expect from my retirement account balance? Or, how much do I need in a retirement account to provide a desired level of cash flow? To answer the first question, here are the monthly withdrawal rates per $100,000 in a retirement account at three different percentages: n 3.00% ........................ $250.00/month n 3.50% ........................ $291.67/month n 4.00% ........................ $333.33/month To answer the second, here are the balances necessary to produce monthly cash flow of $1,000 at three different withdrawal rates: n 3.00% ........................ $400,000 n 3.50% ........................ $342,857 n 4.00% ........................ $300,000 Whether you are looking ahead to retirement or have already left the workforce, these figures may help you with planning. However, they are not guarantees. No one can tell you for sure what distribution amount is sustainable, but it is certain that the less you take out today, the more you will have later on. (3694090-08-15) 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.

www.primemontgomery.com | October 2015

Alleviating Knee Pain FEATURE

By Bone, Muscle & Joint Team, Cleveland Clinic

“As cartilage thins, your bones begin to rub together, causing pain, swelling and stiffness.”

he most common cause of knee pain can hit you at any age — your 30s or 40s as easily as your 60s and 70s. Orthopaedic surgeon Robert Nickodem, Jr., MD, says osteoarthritis, or “wear-and-tear arthritis,” is the most common cause of knee pain. It includes more than 100 types of arthritis or joint inflammation. “Osteoarthritis is like a rusty hinge,” says Dr. Nickodem. “The knee still works, but it creaks.” To help alleviate the “creaking” and soothe the discomfort, Dr. Nickodem recommends: n Anti-inflammatory medications; aspirin or ibuprofen. Acetaminophen, a pain reliever, does not reduce inflammation. n RICE therapy. Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation can help reduce swelling and pain. n Physical therapy. Exercise that strengthens your quads and hamstrings may help relieve pressure on your knees. n Knee braces. They can take pressure off the arthritic area. n Cortisone injections. An occasional injection of this steroid may lessen the swelling and achy pain. n Lubricant injections. Viscosupplementation, or lubricant injections can help the knee move more smoothly. “It can help three out of four people if the arthritis isn’t too severe,” Dr. Nickodem says. ‘Wear and tear’ arthritis How can you tell if you have osteoarthritis? “If you have pain inside your knee, under your kneecap, especially when kneeling, squatting or going up and down steps, it’s usually wear-and-tear arthritis,” says Dr. Nickodem. Cartilage, the cushioning between bones, deteriorates throughout life. It can erode more quickly in some people due to injury or genetics. As cartilage thins, your bones begin to rub together, causing pain, swelling and stiffness. When to call your doctor If your pain and swelling are getting worse and you can no longer put weight on your knee, see your doctor. A simple X-ray can show if there is osteoarthritis and, if needed, an MRI scan can check for meniscal tears or loose chips of cartilage. Arthroscopic surgery can sometimes remove loose cartilage. Partial or total knee replacements are other surgical options, especially for those who can no longer stay as active as they’d like. “Surgery is a last resort, though,” says Dr. Nickodem. “It’s something to consider when nonoperative treatments aren’t helping.” Courtesy: Health Hub, Cleveland Clinic, http://health.clevelandclinic. org/2014/08/what-you-can-do-about-stiff-achy-knees/. 12

October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

MCA Fitn ess Cen ter 2119 East S. Blvd. 334-280-1409

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

Mon-Fri 6 am-7 pm • Sat 9 am-2 pm • Sun 1- 4 pm

Wilson Scott, Dir. MCA Fitness Center

Herman Bopp

MCA member Herman Bopp celebrated his 97th birthday recently with a surprise party held in his honor at MCA. A Montgomery Cardiovascular Associates Facility

HISTORY MYSTERY

Do you know these people?

elp the Alabama Department of Archives and History identify the people in these photographs. Primeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s partnership with ADAH has resulted in many of the people shown in previous photographs being identified, and

your assistance is critical. If you know anyone in these or previous photos, contact Meredith McDonough at 334-353-5442, or meredith.mcdonough@archives.alabama.gov, or e-mail Prime magazine at primemontgomery@gmail.com.

1951. Man in jeans and cowboy hat, probably a participant in the Alabama State Rodeo at Garrett Coliseum in Montgomery. Photo by Horace Perry.

September 25, 1972.Young woman in a costume for a Beef Month promotion sponsored by the Alabama Cattlemenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association,. Her dress is labeled to show different cuts of beef. Photo by John E. Scott

October 1966.Woman in a car during the homecoming parade for Booker T.Washington High School in Montgomery. Photo by Jim Peppler. www.primemontgomery.com | October 2015

FEATURE

Those Silly Blue Jays By Martha Johnson

lue jays are most definitely interesting birds. I laughed heartily at the “peanut article” in the July issue. It made me recall my blue jay experience several years ago. With a spacious back yard, I grew pine trees, fruit trees, veggies, and a muscadine vine. A clothesline was located at the rear of the yard (had to leave room for baseball games). On a bright and sunny Alabama day with laundry basket tucked under my arm, I headed to the clothesline and just as I came up to it, spied a tiny baby bird on the ground. Fearing the dog or cats would hurt this baby, I valiantly leaned down to pick it up and put it into a nearby tree. As I did, two jays, screaming the most raucous sounds, came out of nowhere and dived-bombed me. I ran back into the house with the jays in hot pursuit. Each time I stepped out, I was divebombed. Finally, I came out swinging — with a corn broom. That sent them into the trees where they remained vigilant, watching their baby. I had to make sure I had that broom in hand each time I went into the yard, because even if I covered my hair, somehow they knew me and came after me

October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

over and over. This scene went on all summer — even after the baby bird had grown and left. Finally the jays moved on, and I had my yard back — or so I thought. The next summer this scenario started all over and went on all summer again: blue jays dive bombing and me waving a corn broom. Moral: Don’t mess with blue jays —

especially when they are teaching their young ‘uns to fly! Prime reader Marsha Johnson, EdD, a retired educator, recently submitted this essay, which is printed with her permission. For approximately 40 years Dr. Johnson served as a public and private school teacher, college adjunct instructor and as an administrator with the State Department of Education.

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SOCIAL SECURITY

Working With A Disability

eople with disabilities are challenged with both overcoming barriers and with convincing others that those barriers do not define them. That’s why we wanted to mark this October’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month by reminding you that Social Security is an earned benefit for millions of disabled individuKylle’ McKinney als, and we can assist them in going back to work. The Social Security disability insurance program, or SSDI, is perhaps the most misunderstood program of Social Security. Some people may think that SSDI recipients have never worked and are taking advantage of the system by receiving money for minor impairments. Nothing could be further from the truth. First, anyone who qualifies for SSDI must have worked enough to pay into the system and be “insured.” Second, Social Security has some of the strictest requirements in the world for disability benefits. To qualify, a person must not only have an impairment that will last one year or more, or result in death, but they must be unable to perform any substantial work. Consequently, Social Security disability beneficiaries are some of the most severely impaired people in the country, and they greatly depend on their benefits.You can learn more by visiting the Faces and Facts website at www.socialsecurity.gov/disabilityfacts. At the website, you will find personal stories of those who have benefitted from Social Security when they needed it most. We also have incentives that give beneficiaries with

Prime Celebrating Midlife and Beyond

FREE FOR YOU

August 2015

Oh, my aching feet! (and what to do about them)

plus: Shopping the Outlet Malls

disabilities — who are able — the opportunity to return to work. These work incentives include: 1) continued cash benefits for a period of time while you work; 2) continued Medicare or Medicaid coverage; 3) help with education, training, and rehabilitation to start a new line of work. In some cases, we may even be able to deduct certain impairment-related work expenses from your countable income, making it possible to earn more and also remain eligible to receive benefits. Examples of these expenses are wheelchairs, transportation costs, and specialized equipment needed for work. Social Security also offers the Ticket to Work program, which gives participants a “ticket” to go back to work while keeping their disability benefits. This program is free and voluntary. Ticket to Work gives access to an employment network, which offers assistance with job searches and placement, and vocational rehabilitation and training. Those who enroll find the Ticket to Work program makes it easier to explore whether going back to work is right for them. Some even find that they are able to eventually get back to work and earn far more than the disability payments they once received. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/work for more information on the Ticket to Work program and work incentives.You may also call 1-866-968-7842 (TDD 866-833-2967). Kylle’ McKinney, SSA Public Affairs Specialist, can be reached by e-mail at kylle.mckinney@ssa.gov.

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www.primemontgomery.com | October 2015

TINSELTOWN TALKS

Last of ‘The Honeymooners’

By Nick Thomas

rom “I Love Lucy” and “All in the Family” to “Married with Children” and “Seinfeld,” structuring a sitcom around four lead characters has often proved a successful formula. “It was the perfect format for ‘The

Honeymooners,’” said Joyce Randolph, who starred as Trixie in the popular 1950s series based on two tenementdwelling couples — the Kramdens and the Nortons. As the sole surviving member of the

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original series cast — which filmed with a live audience at included Jackie Gleason, the Adelphi Theater in ManArt Carney and Audrey hattan, and generally without Meadows — Randolph, who full rehearsals. turned 90 last year, contin“Jackie hated to rehearse ues to be identified with the and wanted shows to be show. spontaneous, so Art, Audrey “I worked mostly in theand me would go over the ater and early TV, but people script together on Saturday still recognize me as Trixie,” mornings,” said Randolph. said Randolph. “I’m amazed “Jackie ran everything and by the show’s longevity.” nobody told him what “The Honeymooners” to do. He was extremely was originally a series of talented, and for a big guy short sketches on the Duwas incredibly light on his Mont Network’s “Cavalcade feet doing physical comedy. of Stars,” and later featured For one roller-skating skit, regularly on “The Jackie I went with Art and Audrey Gleason Show” at CBS. to practice at a roller-skating Gleason, Carney, Meadows, Randolph on ‘Honeymooners’ set. (Courtesy “I had done a breath mint palace here in New York. But CBS) Opposite: Randolph today (Courtesy Randy Charles, Randolph’s son). commercial and got a call that we never saw Jackie practice. Jackie wanted ‘that serious He just came out on the actor’ to audition for a skit called ‘The Honeymooners’ and skates and amazed us.” to play the sewer worker’s wife,” recalled Randolph. “It didn’t Gleason, however, was not the most convivial of coworkpay much and my character was less developed than the ers. other three, but I was happy to have a job.” “Jackie was a very strange man, not overly friendly and Gleason soon recognized that the chemistry between himvery moody,” said Randolph. “He just never sat around and self, Carney, Meadows and Randolph had sitcom potential, and talked. Andrey was very professional and would have the expanded “The Honeymooners” into a half-hour series that whole script memorized. If Jackie forgot a line, she got him ran initially for 39 episodes during 1955-1956. The show was back on track. Art was quiet and it was well-known he had a long history of problems with alcohol, but was a wonderful and talented guy.” Does your Long-Term Care And while fans like to imagine their sitcom stars from a Insurance pay for favorite show paling around after hours, that wasn’t the case Nursing Home Care OR Home Health Care? with “The Honeymooners” foursome. Why not have BOTH? “We just didn’t hang out,” said Randolph. “At 9 o’clock, when we finished filming, we all went our own way.” Our policy (GR-N550) covers both nursing home and home health care from the Randolph continued in the role when it once again became same sizeable “dollar account” – a set sum of money you can use. part of a new Jackie Gleason show. But when Gleason moved How does this policy better benefit YOU? to Florida and revived “The Honeymooners” in several TV 1) It’s more flexible than policies with separate fixed benefits. movies and in another show from 1966-1970, Randolph 2) No “benefit periods”. If it is determined you need either nursing home or wasn’t invited. home health care, you’ll have money for covered expenses, it’s that “Years later I saw Audrey and she said Jackie had looked for simple! me, but couldn’t find me,” Randolph recalled. “Well, that was Find out about our Long Term Care policy today. a lot of nonsense. Jackie wanted to use his long-time friend Jane Kean to play Trixie, and that’s what he did. But that was For more information call me for the details or fill out and mail the coupon below. fine with me because I wasn’t going to move from New York Shane Woodard, Agent where my husband had his job and I was happily raising my 334-244-4601 son.” 04-B027 Today, when she ventures from her New York apartment of -----------------------------------------------------------For information, fill out and mail the coupon today. 55 years, Randolph happily greets devoted Honeymooners’ To: Bankers Life and Casualty Company fans. Shane Woodard “Strangers still come up and want to hug and kiss me and 4137 Carmichael Rd. Suite 330 tell me how much they love the show,” she said. “You learn to Montgomery, Ala 36106 accept it, but it’s fun and people are nice. The show continues Please contact me to provide information without obligation about your Long Term Care policy. to influence my life.” Name _____________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip _______________________________________________________ Phone (optional) _____________________________________________________ 04-B027A

Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery, Ala., and has written features, columns, and interviews for over 600 magazines and newspapers. Follow on Twitter @TinseltownTalks. www.primemontgomery.com | October 2015

FEATURE

7 Breast Cancer Myths By Andrea Atkins, grandparents.com

generation ago, we barely whispered the news when a woman we knew had breast cancer. Now, thanks to awareness campaigns and pink ribbons, news reports and candid conversations, breast cancer is as talked about as the common cold. That’s both good news and bad news. “Women are very active around this issue,” says Debbie Saslow, Ph.D., director of breast and gynecologic cancer for the American Cancer Society. “There is a lot of information out there. Unfortunately, some of the data can be misleading and inconclusive and it just gets out there in the form of myths.” Myth: Wearing a bra causes breast cancer This belief gained steam after a book published about 12 years ago suggested that bra straps impede drainage and cir-

October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

culation and make it difficult for the body to push toxins out of the breasts. The authors suggested that this can lead to cell changes that lead to cancer. FACT: The bra/cancer connection was snapped once and for all in September 2014 when a study by Lu Chen, a researcher at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle concluded that bras do not cause cancer. “Biologically, it’s not possible,” says Saslow, adding that most breast cancer is discovered in the armpit area, not the underwire area. Myth: Wearing antiperspirant causes breast cancer This myth has been rolling on for too many years. It suggests that parabens in the antiperspirant are absorbed through the

underarm area and interfere with lymph circulation, causing toxins to build up in the breast. Some researchers blame the aluminum in antiperspirants and deodorants, saying it ups estrogen levels. Excess estrogen can be a factor in developing breast cancer. FACT: “There is no scientific evidence for the antiperspirant/breast cancer connection,” says Saslow. So if you’d rather your armpits smell pretty, you can apply deodorant without fear of it harming your health. Myth: The radiation from a mammogram can cause breast cancer Some people avoid this important screening test, reasoning that the radiation it emits on breasts could be inviting cancer. FACT: “The radiation in a mammogram is miniscule,” says Saslow. “Mammograms are very safe.” There is some concern for women who have the BRACA gene (considered a breast cancer susceptibility gene) and who start getting screened when they are much younger. “If you start mammograms at a very young age, radiation risks build up over time,” Saslow says. “But these women are at higher risk for breast cancer, so the potential harm is far outweighed by the possibility of finding breast cancer. “If you are at average risk, there’s really very little risk involved, because you’ll find way more cancers than you would

ever cause because of radiation,” she adds. Myth: Weight doesn’t affect your risk for breast cancer FACT: Gaining weight in adulthood raises your risk for postmenopausal breast cancer, the most common type of breast cancer, according to Saslow. If you were heavy as a child and remain so as an adult, your risk is actually a little lower. But if you were thin as a youngster and gain weight as an adult, you are putting yourself at greater risk for breast cancer—and for other diseases. Postmenopausal women who are overweight or obese have a 30 to 60 percent higher breast cancer risk than those who are lean, according to the Susan G. Komen organization. Myth: Carrying your cell phone in your bra can cause breast cancer Many women who don’t want to carry a purse slip cash, a lipstick, and a cell phone into their bras on the way out. Saslow suggests that this myth grew out of the one that says that people who hold cell phones close to their heads are more likely to develop brain cancer—a rumor that has little scientific evidence behind it. FACT: “There is no scientific evidence for this,” Saslow says. Cell phones don’t cause cancer. “But if you’re worried about it,” she adds, “don’t keep your phone there.”

www.primemontgomery.com | October 2015

Myth: My mom had breast cancer, so I’m going to get it (or vice versa) FACT: When you have a strong family history of breast cancer—with multiple close relatives on one side having gone through it—your risk is higher. But 80 percent of breast cancers are found in women who have no family history, Saslow says, making this myth a particularly dangerous one. In 5 to 10 percent of cases, there is a family history. But even if your mother had it, it doesn’t mean that you are a ticking time bomb. Genes combine differently and interact differently with the environment. “Genetics play a role, but there must be something in the environment that triggers it,” Saslow says, adding that the biggest risk factor is “having estrogen in your breasts,” meaning: being female. So, of course, all women should be vigilant about screening to protect themselves. Myth: A lump in your breast means breast cancer If you find a lump in your breast, you must have it checked out, but you must not leap to conclusions about what it is. FACT: “Most lumps are not breast cancer,” says Saslow. “There’s a chance it could be. You should absolutely follow up with your doctor. But if you are getting regular screening, most of the time cancer is detected before there are signs you would feel or see. If you suddenly notice a lump, see your doctor.You may have a cyst, a benign lump or some

October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

other minor condition. If it’s been a while since your last mammogram, alert your doctor immediately to have the lump examined. Saslow says women should know other signs to look for: change in your nipples, a scaly, thickening of the skin on a particular area of your breast, and spontaneous nipple discharge could all be signs of cancer. Consult your doctor if you notice any of these changes in your breasts. Grandparents.com is a lifestyle site that celebrates the grandparent community by providing trusted information about family & relationships, health & well-being, travel & retirement, and more. Follow the site on Twitter (@grandparentscom) and on Facebook (facebook.com/grandparentscom).

FEATURE

Journey to Grace T

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By Judy Weaver

he pronouncement of cancer is dreaded by all, and yet when it came, grace was its companion. It was a matter-of-fact progression from diagnosis to treatment — like stepping stones across an unknown stream of water. The doctors provided the roadmap to advance from one stone to the next, finally reaching the other side. And it was the journey that was full of grace. The journey began in fear and through grace, it ended in love. Fear of dying, fear of the unknown….were soon eclipsed by the kindnesses and open hearts of old friends, new friends, and family. Allison left a special card in my mailbox the night of “the dreaded news”….a card I looked at many times over the next year. Susan talked a doctor “taking no new patients” into treating me. Jean’s husband Perry called the night before my chemo began to give me a pep talk and tell me how well his own had gone. Emily called to say that her cancer journey had been one of the best experiences in her life. Dumbfounded at first…I soon began to see what Emily meant. Mark spent the 20th year of our marriage going to every doctor’s appointment and every chemo session with me…. across the Walt Whitman Bridge and into Philadelphia. Beating cancer is a bond of love between us that will last a lifetime. We visited every Methodist Church in South Jersey trying to find one with a real pipe organ, for it is hymns played on a pipe organ that soothes my soul. And when we moved at the end of my treatment, step-daughter Chemaine told me she had called all the Methodist churches in Baton Rouge and had found the one for me. And she was right. It had a beautiful pipe organ and a good friend was singing in the choir. I was home. The grace of God was everywhere—in my family, my friends, my medical team and especially my husband. Through grace, the journey deeply touched my heart and humbled me. Through grace, I became a more grateful and prayerful person. Through grace (when I get it right), I am more mindful of the needs of others, and am still a work in progress, through the grace of God. Judy Weaver, a breast cancer survivor, is semi-retired. She is a consultant with the National Educational Telecommunications Association and lives in Mobile. She enjoys gardening, traveling with her husband Mark, writing, and staying in touch with old friends. www.primemontgomery.com | October 2015

FEATURE

Makin’ Music in Macon Story by Andrea Gross; Photos by Irv Green

“Music is in more than the air; it’s in the town’s DNA,” says my friend when I tell her I’m headed for Macon, Georgia. I soon find that she’s right. This small town, 85 miles southeast of Atlanta, is a place where music spans decades and genres, where folks like Little Richard, James Brown, Otis Redding and the Allman brothers made music history and where musicians like Mike Mills and Robert McDuffie are ensuring that Macon’s music creds remain strong in the future.

But Macon is more than just a breeding ground of music masters. In Macon, music history blends with personal history. As my husband and I visit places connected to the above-mentioned artists, we meet their relatives, school chums, managers and supporters, and these folks tell us stories—not well-rehearsed tales like those we hear on most trips, but informal ones like those that ricochet between friends. We feel as if we’re guests at a big family party.

(Top) Macon considers itself the “Song & Soul of the South.” (Botom left) Visitors to the Otis Redding Foundation often hear family stories from his daughter, Karla Redding-Andrews. (Bottom right) Allman Brothers Band mural created by former Macon resident Steve Penley. 22 October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

The feeling of intimacy begins when we take a Rock Candy Tour led by Jessica Walden, who regales us with stories about her uncle, Phil Walden, who was largely responsible for turning Macon from a sleepy southern town into a major hub of R&B and Southern Rock. Over the years, his companies recorded the Allman Brothers Band and James Brown at the start of their careers and managed the careers of stars such as Otis Redding, Etta James, Percy Sledge and Ike and Tina Turner. Jessica has personally met, or her father and uncle have told her stories about, not only Macon’s musical artists but also about virtually every celebrity who has lived in or passed through the town in the last fifty years. She tells us how Judy Garland taught a local chef to make egg salad, how Andy Warhol came to town as a reporter before he became a visual artist, and why Jimmy Carter credited Phil and the Allmans with helping him become President. Rock Candy Tours has several guides, including JesShe pauses outside the Downtown Grill, one of Macon’s classiest restausica Walden (above) and Otis Redding’s grandson. rants. “Here’s where Gregg Allman proposed to Cher,” she says. She gives us the inside scoop on the couple’s stormy four-year marriage. “I guess you could say they ‘drug it out,’” she says with a grin. We hear more Allman stories at The Allman Brothers Band Museum at the Big House, the home and hangout of the original members of the band between 1970 and 1973. Rob Schneck, a former road manager for Gov’t Mule, (an offshoot of the Allman Brothers Band) as well as a friend of Gregg and Cher’s son, shows us around, interspersing facts with anecdotes drawn from his personal association with band members. Of all the folks who knew the Allmans when they lived in Macon, it’s Louise Hudson, the one they called “Mama Louise,” who knew them best. Today Louise is officially retired from her down-home eatery, H&H Restaurant, but she still comes in almost every day to check on the chicken and chat with the customers. She likes to tell them about the day when “two skinny boys came Louise Hudson enjoys telling visitors how she fed begging for food. They said they had no money but were fixin’ to go on tour members of the Allman Brothers Band.

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Gregg Allman proposed to Cher in the Downtown Grill.

2014-15

and would pay me when they got back.” Louise gave them heaping dishes of soul food; the boys started one of the hottest bands in the country, and Louise became their life-long friend. The next day we stop by the Otis Redding Foundation, which showcases memorabilia from the family’s personal collection. Otis’s daughter, Karla Redding-Andrews, greets us. A visitor asks which of her father’s songs is her personal favorite. She stops to think. “Probably ‘I’ve Got Dreams to Remember,’” she says after a minute, “but I also like ‘Love Man’ because it describes my dad so well. Mom was the strict one. Dad would let us kids eat ice cream for dinner.” During the rest of our visit we’re privy to stories about sex, scandal, segregation, and tales about revitalizing neighborhoods and repurposing historic buildings in the city’s College Hill Corridor, a two square-mile area between Mercer University and Macon’s downtown business district. Before we leave we pause outside an 1855 antebellum mansion, replete with marble steps and Corinthian pillars. It’s the backdrop for the Allman Brothers’ first album. Today, violin virtuoso Robert McDuffie — “Bobby” to his hometown friends — has turned the building into the Robert McDuffie Center for the Strings, a conservatory hailed as the Juilliard of the South. “First came soul; then came Southern rock, and now it’s only fitting that Macon is a home for classical music,” says Jessica Walden. With this it seems certain that there will be more legendary artists — and more stories — as folks in Macon continue makin’ music. For more information visit www.maconga.org and www.collegehillmacon.com.

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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 October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

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• Vaccine can be given from September - March each year

• Risk groups and all adults 65 years should receive both vaccines

For more information, contact your healthcare provider, county health department, or community vaccinators.

www.primemontgomery.com | October 2015

IN EVERY LIFE

Problems Sleeping? E

and even changes in the ach October we immune system. change our clocks One factor that can alas Daylight Savings ter sleep patterns is sleep Time ends. This can affect apnea, or short periods sleep patterns until an adwhen breathing stops. justment to the day/night Periodic gasping, snorting (circadian rhythm) cycle or snoring may be signs is made. Although people of sleep apnea, and may have individual biorhythms or may not awaken the (early birds or night owls Arlene Morris person. Awakening with a for example), changes in sleep patterns can occur throughout headache or daytime sleepiness are additional symptoms. Risk factors life. The National Sleep Foundation include family history, upper airway reports that most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night to feel fully obstruction or abnormalities, cardiac disorders, hypertension, obesity, rested and identifies poor sleep as large neck circumference, use of an indicator of health, and one that alcohol or medications, as well as requires investigation. The Centers other factors. The underlying cause for Disease Control and Prevention must be identified because treatdetect that between 13 to 19% of ment depends on the cause(s). A adults in Alabama say they are not Continuous Positive Airway Pressure getting enough sleep or rest. (See (C-PAP) device may be helpful. http://www.cdc.gov/sleep/data_statisGastroesophageal reflux disease tics.html.) (GERD) may interfere with sleep, as Insomnia is defined as difficulty gastric acid secretions flow up into either going to sleep or staying asleep. Transient insomnia can occur the esophagus and are perceived from stress--people may experience as a burning sensation. The lining of the esophagus becomes scarred, situational difficulty sleeping when causing secretions in the back of a disturbing event has occurred, but the throat which result in frequent resume regular sleep patterns after coughing during sleep. Eating several resolution of the stress. Short-term hours before going to bed, elevating insomnia may occur with prolonged the head of the bed, and avoiding stress, changes in lifestyle, medicacoffee and alcohol may be helpful, or tion, or health conditions. Chronic medication to reduce acid may be insomnia lasts longer than three required. weeks, and can result in a cyclical Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) fear of being unable to sleep, that is another possible cause of sleep then prevents sleep. Insomnia can lead to mood changes; memory, con- disturbances. The prevalence centration, and judgement problems; increases with age, and although

the cause may be unknown, there may be a family history or it may be a side effect of caffeine or some medications. Other contributing factors may be anemia, iron or folate deficiency, nerve lesions, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, arthritis, or other diseases. Avoiding caffeine, nicotine and alcohol may improve RLS, as may stretches or walking, or medication may be needed. Changes in the kidney or circulatory system can lead to accumulation of body fluids through the day, which are then processed when lying down, causing a need for more frequent nighttime urination. Changes in schedule for drinking fluids, reduction of salt, and medications for the underlying cause can help. Pain is another cause of sleep disturbance, for which again the underlying cause must be identified for effective reduction. A consistent habit before going to bed can be helpful. Changes in sleep need to be discussed with your healthcare provider. Recording when you sleep, and what you have been doing can help healthcare providers identify patterns in order to provide appropriate help. One example of a sleep diary is available at http://yoursleep.aasmnet.org/pdf/sleepdiary.pdf Arlene H. Morris, EdD, RN, CNE is Professor of Nursing, Auburn Montgomery School of Nursing. Reach her at amorris@aum.edu.

“Chronic insomnia lasts longer than three weeks, and can result in a cyclical fear of being unable to sleep, that then prevents sleep.” 26

October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

GAMES Across 1 Sardine cousin 5 "My take is ..." 10 Princess from Amphipolis 14 Iota 15 One-up 16 "Head With Pipe" artist Nolde 17 Watchable, in a way 18 Jar for leafy vegetable storage? 20 2000s World #1 female golfer 22 Nurture 23 Word with cake or break 24 Actor Jackie's pet fish? 27 "__ Love" (Maroon 5 hit) 29 Smoking, perhaps 30 Half a score 31 1959 novel in whose film version Mary Crane became Marion Crane 33 Giant 36 Rabbit's friend 37 Opine ... or create four long answers in this puzzle? 41 Literary __ 42 More than hammer home 43 Video game segments 45 Jr.'s jr. 46 Spot for a soak

49 With 60-Down, only South Korean World Golf Hall of Fame inductee 50 Emulate an inveterate swindler? 53 Small songbird 54 Work on a canvas? 56 Unfortunate 57 Vessel with limited space? 61 Bard's verb 62 "See Dad Run" star 63 Steer snagger 64 Mishmash 65 TripAdvisor alternative 66 "No worries" 67 White side, maybe Down 1 More than peck 2 Head __ 3 Besides 4 Plymouth's county 5 Org. with a multi-ring logo 6 "No __!" 7 Whitewater figure 8 Pitcher? 9 Green sage 10 Survey taker, at times 11 Text clarifier 12 Compliment on a course 13 Antacid brand word

19 Old PC monitors 21 Martin's start? 25 Hollywood glitterati 26 Sambuca flavoring 28 On a sugar high, say 31 Psychologist's concern 32 Quaker Honey Graham __ 33 Toast, with "a" 34 U.S.-U.K. separator 35 "Truth is more of a stranger than fiction" writer 37 The works 38 Second section of Verdi's "Requiem" 39 Fit nicely 40 Quarters, e.g. 44 Daffy Duck has one 46 Move on a screen 47 Shakespearean heiress 48 "But I digress ..." 50 Trainee 51 Marine predators 52 Bygone birds 53 Mango tango smoothie server 55 Prefix with cardial 58 Post-spill need 59 __-Aztecan languages 60 See 49-Across 2015 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, INC.ÂŠ

Crossword and sudoku answers on page 30.

www.primemontgomery.com | October 2015

FEATURE

Marking Life’s Milestones By Claire Yezbak Fadden

ach birthday and anniversary is a special event, but let’s face it, some are a bit more noteworthy than others, particularly those that are decades in the making, like a 50th wedding anniversary, or a 90th birthday. These occasions call for extra attention beyond the traditional cake with candles or dance to the anniversary waltz. These are events that require special handling –not any gift will do. If someone you love is celebrating a milestone this year, here are some easy, inexpensive and loving ways to make the day even more spectacular. A Shower of Well Wishes It’s not always possible or practical for everyone to attend a birthday celebration, no matter how momentous. That’s the case with my mother’s 90th birthday, an event that truly deserves feting. With her family and friends spread along the coast of California and all the way to Pennsylvania, a card shower seemed to be the way to go. I sent a simple greeting to everyone on Mom’s Christmas card list, encouraging them to Shower Her With Cards. No matter how far away they are geographically, they can be at the big event and be part of this special celebration. Greetings From the White House Couples getting married, parents enjoying the birth of a child, couples celebrating 50 years of wedded bliss and even Eagle Scouts can receive a congratulatory greeting from the President and Mrs. Barrack Obama. The occasions are limited for this special tribute (see sidebar for details). A Numbers Game Twenty-one chocolate bars, 35 silver dollars, 40 fine cigars, 60 red roses. My mom’s a longtime fan of butterflies. She collects pins, stickers and pillows, anything she can find with a butterfly on it. Whatever your celebrant favors, multiply it by their age and surprise him/her with it. Sixty 2-1/2-foot-tall pink flamingos perched in the front yard definitely send a happy birthday wish. That’s what one birthday girl found out when she arrived home to see these graceful bird cutouts displayed on her lawn. Her friends, anxious to welcome in her 60th year, had been busy preparing this standout salute.

October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

It Was a Great Year Life was different 40, 50 or 60 years ago. The price of a stamp was three cents. Eisenhower was president. A three-bedroom house was closer in price to what we now pay for a car. Do a little research to find out what happened the day the birthday person was born. Find out how much a gallon of milk cost and who won the World Series the year your folks got married. For starters, visit www.infoplease.com or http://dmarie. com/timecap. These sites allow you to search by day, month and year. Collecting Memories Encourage friends and family to write a letter to the guest of honor, recalling a favorite memory, anecdote or reflection. Dig through old photo albums for those forgotten treasures. Prepare a scrapbook for your honoree. It’s the perfect way to collect all these heartfelt memories and keep them handy for generations to come. Claire Yezbak Fadden, is an award-winning free-lance writer and mother. Follow her on Twitter @ClaireFlaire.

Greetings from the President The White House will send greetings to U.S. citizens only, for special occasions as outlined below. 1.Your request must be received six weeks in advance of the event date. Greetings are generally not sent after the event date, except for wedding congratulations and newborn acknowledgments. 2. Anniversary greetings are extended only to those couples celebrating their 50th (and subsequent) wedding anniversary. 3. Birthday greetings will be sent only to individuals 80 years of age and above. 4. A limited number of special occasions other than birthdays and anniversaries exist for which the Greetings Office will send appropriate recognition. These occasions include: wedding (send your request after the event); baby’s birth (must be born during the Barack Obama administration — send request only after baby’s birth); Eagle Scout Award; Girl Scout Gold Award; bar/bat mitzvah or equivalent occasion. To make a request, include: n name and home address of honoree(s); n form of address (Mr., Ms., Mrs., Dr., Miss, etc.); n exact date of occasion (month, day, year); age (birthdays) or number of years of marriage; n your (the requestor’s) name and daytime phone number; n for wedding, include couple’s married names and current or new address; n for baby’s birth, include baby’s date of birth and full names and address of baby and parents. In most cases, greetings will be mailed from the White House approximately 10 days prior to the event. Submit your request by mail to: The White House, Attn: Greetings Office, Washington, DC 20502-0039.

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We apologize for leaving out the crossword puzzle and duplicating the Sudoku number game in the September issue. As you can see, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve managed to avoid that error in this issue. We thank all those who brought this to our attention. 30

October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

MEDICARE

Searching for Home Healthcare By Bob Moos

edicare has just begun publishing star ratings for home health care agencies to help consumers tell the good providers from the bad. Medicare pays for health care you receive in the comfort and privacy of your home if you meet certain requirements.You must be homebound, under a physician’s care and in need of part-time skilled nursing care or rehabilitative services. One in 10 people with traditional Medicare relies on home health services in a given year. A third of all home visits are for patients released from the hospital but still requiring attention. The other two-thirds are for people trying to stay out of the hospital. Medicare’s website – www.medicare.gov – is a convenient place to begin your search for a home health agency. With a few clicks, you can compare the providers in your area, check on the types of services they offer and the quality of their care. To help you understand the differences in quality between agencies, Medicare has added star ratings to its website. One star means “poor,” two stars are “below average,” three stars mean “average,” four stars are “above average,” and five stars mean “excellent.” Medicare has posted star ratings for more than 9,000 home health agencies nationwide, based on such quality measures as how quickly home visits begin after a doctor authorizes them and how often a patient improves under the home-based care. The vast majority of Alabama’s 147 rated home health agencies are performing at or above average levels. Statewide, 34 percent received four or five stars, while 52 percent rated three or 3.5 stars. The remaining 14 percent scored 2.5 stars or lower. The current ratings are based on the providers’ work from last year and will be updated regularly. Medicare didn’t rate some agencies because they didn’t have enough patients to evaluate or because they had only recently started their businesses. As helpful as they are, the star ratings aren’t meant to be the final word on a provider’s quality of care. They’re simply a screening tool that helps you focus on a few facilities.Visit with your doctor and talk to family members and friends who have had home health care. Understanding home-based care is essential to finding the agency that best fits your needs. Your home care starts with your doctor’s decision that your illness or injury demands it.You may need a skilled nurse to give you IV drugs, shots or tube feedings, or to change dressings, or to teach you and your caregivers about newly prescribed drugs. You also may require rehabilitative services, like occupational, physical or speech therapy, to become as self-sufficient as possible and regain your independence. The home health agency you select will work with you and

your doctor to develop a plan of care. That plan will detail the services you need, how often you should have them, who will provide them, and what results your doctor expects from your treatment. To qualify for home health benefits, your nursing care must be part-time. Home health aides who help with bathing and dressing, as well as homemaker aides who clean or do laundry, may be covered, but only if they’re part of your overall plan of care. Medicare pays 100 percent for your care as long as you’re eligible. It also pays for 80 percent of any medical equipment you need, such as a special bed or oxygen. If you’re in Medicare’s traditional fee-for-service program and have questions about your home health care coverage, you can call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227. If you’re in a private Medicare Advantage health plan, you should consult your plan. Home health care can be a blessing by speeding your recovery after a hospital stay or, even better, by allowing you to avoid the hospital altogether. Bob Moos is the Southwest regional public affairs officer for the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

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PRIME DIVERSIONS

Recent dvd releases The Overnight and Spy

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 work out better for their careers.

Spy (R) Since Sean Connery wowed the world as Agent 007 in 1962’s Dr. No, there have been over 20 more James Bond films, ex- Mark Glass ceeding the number of Ian Fleming’s source novels about England’s suave superspy. Broadening the tribute, there have probably been even more Bond spoofs, dating back to Woody Allen’s 1967 Casino Royale, followed shortly by James Coburn’s two campy outings as studly agent Derek Flint. But no one could have predicted the passing of that comedic torch to apple-cheeked Melissa McCarthy, backed by Jude Law and Jason Statham. Or that Paul Feig could make it all work so well. He’d struck gold with her as a supporting player in Bridesmaids, but fizzled pairing her with Sandra Bullock for The Heat. The film opens like an actual Bond flick, with Law crashing an elegant party at a Bulgarian mansion to wrest a stolen nuke from a wealthy megavillain, preceding a Bond-style song behind the Bond-style titles. McCarthy plays his skilled supporting techie of 10 years, monitoring his moves from the bowels of her dreary CIA offices. She also has a Moneypenny-sized crush on her field agent. When he gets killed by the bad guy’s successor, his rich-bitch daughter (Rose Byrne), the trained, but untested, McCarthy is sent to Europe to follow the players and the bomb they’re hawking to the highest bidder. Surveillance leads to contact, which leads to a manic chase around the continent, complete with feints and double-crosses aplenty. The main surprise is that McCarthy fares better as a lead than she has since moving up from her TV sitcom. She handles both slapstick and dialog deftly, fleshing out a likeable, hilarious protagonist in a cascade of over-the-top situations. Next would be Statham’s willingness to play the fool — a hyperactive agent who’s either gone nuts, or may have always been somewhat short on sanity, after kicking so many butts so deftly as the star of the Transporter trio and other lighthearted-to-serious action fare. If you’re in the mood for zany antics, free from any burdens of mental stimulation, this one’s a safe bet. And lots of laughs.

Mark Glass is an officer and director of the St. Louis Film Critics Association. 32

October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

October in the River Region Arts, Crafts, Food, Yard Sale, More House of Holidays. Oct. 3, 8 am–1 pm. First United Methodist Church, Wetumpka, 306 W Tuskeena St. Lunch $5. For information call 334-567-9688 or e-mail ejohnson3@elmore.rr.com. Tai Chi Society Open House Oct. 3, 9 am-Noon, 3666A, Debby Dr., Montgomery. For information call 334-832-1907, or visit www.taoist.org for a complete list of classes. Capitol Sounds Concert Band “Sounds of Autumn.” Sun. Oct. 4, 3 pm, City Hall Auditorium, Montgomery, AL. Free. Donations accepted at door. For info contact Director John Jackson, 334-324-8661, musicjsj@gmail. com. For info on the band visit www.capitolsounds.org. Gardening Lunch & Learn “Cool Weather Veggies.” Noon-1 pm, Oct. 7. Free. 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) 2704133. Singer/Songwriters Joe Thomas, Jr. Guitar Pull, Oct. 20, 7-9 pm. Cloverdale Playhouse, Old Cloverdale. Songwriters perform/discuss their music. $10 (includes complimentary beverages). For info call 334-262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Library Speaker Series Author Nancy Bone Goff (Murder at Mountain Creek, Life After Murder), Oct. 15, 10 am, Pike Road Branch Library, 9585 Vaughn Rd., Pike Road. For information call 334-2448679 or visit www.facebook.com/pikeroadbranchlibrary. Wetumpka Depot Players “Tuesdays With Morrie” Heart-warming play combining comedy, drama, poignancy. Oct. 15-18. Wetumpka Depot Players, 300 Main St. For tickets call 334-868-1440, or visit www. wetumpkadepot.com.

Volunteer: Mtgy Area Council on Aging MACOA fills volunteer needs for several area agencies. — 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, e-mail ashehane@macoa.org, or Shirley Stewart (Autauga, Elmore Co.s), 334-595-0841, e-mail sastewart@macoa.org. EastChase Farmer’s Market Saturday through Oct. 10. Locally grown produce, gift items, entertainment, fitness classes, cooking demonstrations. For information call 334-279-6046. Jasmine Hill Gardens/Museum Fri, Sat, Sunday. Wetumpka. 20+ acres of year-round floral beauty and classical sculpture. Tours available for groups of 20 or more. For information call 334-263-5713 or visit www. jasminehill.org/. 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. Grief, Divorce, Adoption Support Groups Millbrook First United Methodist Church. Grief: meets Sundays, 5–7 p.m. Divorce: meets Sundays, 5-7 p.m. Adoption: meets 4th Tuesday 6-7:30 p.m. For information call the church office, 334- 285-4114 or email churchoffice@mfumc.org.

Newcomers Club of Montgomery Newcomers Club of Montgomery monthly luncheon, Oct. 22, 11:30 am-1:30 pm. Arrowhead CC. Guest speaker. $18. Reserve space by noon Oct. 19. Call Jan Burdette 334-593-9266, or e-mail jan8419@bellsouth.net. For more information visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com.

State Retirees Health Screenings, Flu Shots State Retirees and dependents under 65 with SEIB coverage. • Wed. Oct. 7, 8:30-11 am • Thurs. Oct. 8, 8:30-11 am AL Public Library Service, Monticello Dr., Mtgy. • Oct. 28, 11 am-1 pm St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Highway 31, Prattville. For information call 334-834-9116, contact Sara Phillips, sphillips@arsea.org.

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.

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. www.primemontgomery.com | October 2015

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

The Fish Fry “Mama! Get the grease ready!” my grandfather said to my grandmother, whose answer I could barely hear over the static-filled cell phone connection. The purpose of the call was two-fold: one, we had caught enough fish for supper and two; we were safely off the water. Both of them have been gone for many years, but the words still echo in my mind. On our way home from fishing he always stopped to call at the same spot. Cell phones were a novelty in those days, with service as spotty as the lateral line on a largemouth. This was long before the first “Shut up and drive” sticker appeared on a bumper, and before text messaging was available. The fact that we could make a phone call from a vehicle was amazing to me. But there was another reason my grandfather pulled over before dialing home with the mobile phone he carried on our fishing trips. When plugged into the cigarette lighter, that heavy, black-bagged rascal would power down all the electronics in his Jeep. The first time he had me place a call while he drove, the power steering, headlights and dash display all died. “Shut it off!” he hollered. As soon as I did, the brownout ended. We fished ponds, the river, the lake, the ocean. Anywhere there was water, the old man could catch fish. As a child I wondered if he were part-fish, since he always knew where they were, and what they wanted to eat. Most often, it was an injured minnow plug. “Hey, boy,” he’d say to get my attention, “gimme the Rapala.” I complied with orders easily, never a difficult child, and was told I made an excellent first mate. When we first started fishing he’d run the monofilament through the rod guides and select and tie on lures for me. As his eyes grew older, these tasks became mine – for both of us – though lure selection remained an individual choice. Some days it was the white one, others the

golden-colored one, but he always wanted the Rapala. We fished together most Sundays, lazily casting away the afternoon. We didn’t talk much, for no other reason than we were there to fish. We practiced some catch-and-release, but mostly catch-and-keep, since the former was a strange notion to a child of the Depression who emigrated from a distant island in Greece. At day’s end we’d haul in the boat, load up rods and tackle boxes and those delicious fish last of all, wanting to keep them as fresh as possible for the drive home. The moment he placed the call to my grandmother, like clockwork, my stomach would start rumbling. I daydreamed of crispy flakes of white flesh, hot and drenched in lemon juice, alongside a heap of vinegar coleslaw hand-shredded from cabbage from his garden. Some folks think that in life, anticipation is half the enjoyment. Clearly, these folks never dined with us after a good day on the water. My grandfather no longer has a physical presence in my boat, which was his boat, but each time I land a fish I turn to show him regardless. Every time I head home with a cooler full of fish I think of those foretelling words, “Mama! Get the grease ready!” It was always spoken excitedly, in the same pitch and cadence. Though he only accompanies me now in memory, I smile when I ponder how, in this era of texting, he’d communicate that age-old message to my grandmother. “Mama – gt grs rdy.” You’ll have to excuse me. My stomach just rumbled.

Niko Corley spends his free time in the woods or in the water, earning his charter boat license in 2012. Email: cootfootoutfitters@gmail.com..

Niko Corley 34

October 2015 | www.primemontgomery.com

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