PrimeFeb2013

Prime Celebrating Midlife and Beyond

February 2013 FREE

Montgomery

e h t of

t r A e Th h c i w d n a S

Coupons in the Digital Age • Botanical Garden Dreams • Wine Resolution Emergency Prep: Include $ • A Visit to North Georgia

Will O. (Trip) Walton, III

Walton Law Firm, PC

2011-2012 Alabama Super Lawyer

Ph: 334-321-3000 www.waltonlaw.net

The

Fighter “Walton Law Firm Top Five”

$17,500,000.00 Insurance Fraud Verdict $8,000,000.00 Brain Injury Settlement $7,500,000.00 Spine Injury Settlement $6,750,000.00 Brain Injury Settlement $4,000,000.00 Wrongful Death Settlement As an Alabama Golden Gloves Heavy Weight Boxing Champion, Trip’s motto has always been “We Don’t Start The Fight – We Finish It!”

Traumatic Brain Injury • Wrongful Death • Serious Personal Injury

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“The recoveries, verdicts, favorable outcomes, and testimonials described in this ad are not an indication of future results. Every case is different, and regardless of what friends, family, or other individuals may say about what a case is worth, each case must be evaluated on its own facts and circumstances as they apply to the law. The evaluation of a case depends on the facts, the injuries, the jurisdiction, the venue, the witnesses, the parties, and the testimony, among other factors. Furthermore, no representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

Monday-Thursday 4:30-9:30 pm Friday and Saturday 4:30-10:00 pm

10044 Chantilly Parkway • 334-281-3911 www.charlesanthonysatthepub.com www.primemontgomery.com | February 2013

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Sandwich Celebration page 8

FEATURES Extreme Couponing page 12

Expand your Wine Palette

Ramblin’ in N. Georgia

page 14

page 18

plus...

11 Botanical Garden Dreams 16 Heart Health Quiz 17 Dog & Duck Memories 21 Hand Scrub for Dirty Work 23 Is Your Disaster Kit Complete?

24 Prescription Coverage 28 Understanding Medicare Part B 29 Eat Berries & De-stress 30 Be a Wise Healthcare Consumer 34 Argo: Must-see DVD 4

February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

February 2013

Prime

Celebrating Midlife and Beyond

Montgomery

February 2013 Vol. 3, Issue 10 PUBLISHER Bob Corley, primemontgomery@gmail.com EDITOR Sandra Polizos, primeeditor@gmail.com ART DIRECTOR Callie Corley, primemagdesign@gmail.com WRITERS Claire Fadden, Andrea Gross, David White CONTRIBUTORS Ethel Boykin, Tina Calligas, Callie Corley, Niko Corley, Mark Glass, Kylle’ McKinney, Bob Moos, Arlene Morris, Carron Morrow, Alan Wallace PHOTOGRAPHERS Bob Corley, Irv Green SALES Bob Corley, 334-202-0114, primemontgomery@gmail.com Prime Montgomery 7956 Vaughn Road, #144 Montgomery, AL 36116 • 334-202-0114 www.primemontgomery.com ISSN 2152-9035

Prime Montgomery is a publication of The Polizos/Corley Group, LLC. Original content is copyright 2013 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.

Editor’s Note I love to watch cooking programs on television. Not the endless variety of Iron Chef shows because their frenzied, breathless, top-this-if-youcan style of competition annoys me. But let the Barefoot Contessa demonstrate how to make Lobster Pot Pie, or Italian chef Lydia Bastianich whip up a mouthwatering Shrimp Parmigiana, and I’m glued to the screen. The process, the presentation of the food, and the performance of these master chefs mesmerizes me, regardless of the recipe. In no time flat I find myself watching Ten Easy Steps to Making the Best Grilled Cheese Sandwich ever. And I’m not even a big grilled cheese fan.

Last week, Martha Stewart was my muse. (I admit she’s annoying, but she is so perfectly annoying I’m compelled to watch). In 30 short minutes she instructed me on precisely the best way to pan-grill scallops, salmon and steak. Never mind that I already knew how to cook each item and have been doing so for years. But from her initial admonition to pat the meat dry before searing, I was enchanted. What is it, from that first tablespoon of butter to the last squeeze of lemon juice, that so bewitches me?

This past weekend I watched French chef Jacques Pe’pin prepare omelets. (In truth, I not only watched the show, I recorded it. And then, I made my husband watch it with me again.) It was only after I went out and bought a new omelette pan (ok, this is getting embarrassing) that I recognized my fascination has little to do with the recipe, the chef, or even his culinary masterpiece. My attraction to these kitchen wizards is the potential of what I can personally create by learning from them, and it keeps me spellbound. With just a little determination, technique and experimentation I become my own kitchen DaVinci, using whatever ingredients I choose as my palette to create a masterpieces all my own.

Our focus this month is on the sandwich – an all-American favorite. Savory or just a tad sweet, toasted or grilled, with vegetables, condiments or simply with butter -- it’s the quality of the bread and what goes in between that counts. Do you fancy yourself a ‘wich wizard and have a sandwich masterpiece of your own? Drop me a line at primeeditor@primemontgomery.com. We’d love to showcase your creation.

Meanwhile, pardon me while I practice omelet-making in my brand new pan.

If you’re 50+ and on Facebook, become a fan of PRIME Montgomery! www.primemontgomery.com | February 2013

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new you can use Exercise May Protect Against Brain Shrinkage Exercising regularly in old age may better protect against brain shrinkage than engaging in mental or social activities, according to a new study published in Neurology®.

People in their seventies who participated in more physical exercise, including walking several times a week, had less brain shrinkage and other signs of aging in the brain than those who were less physically active. According to researchers brain shrinkage may lead to problems with memory and thinking.

Weekly Soft Drink Consumption Bubbles Up Knee Osteoarthritis Sugary soft drink consumption contributes not only to weight gain, but also may play a role in the progression of knee osteoarthritis, especially in men, according to new research findings presented at the American College of Rheumatology Annual Meeting.

Factors that increase the risk of knee osteoarthritis include obesity, age, prior injury to the knee, extreme stress to the joints, and family history.

After controlling for BMI and other factors that may contribute to knee OA, men who consumed more soft drinks per week had worse knee OA progression. Interestingly, men with lower BMI, less than 27.5 kg/m2, showed more knee OA progression with increased soft-drink consumption than men who had higher BMI scores. By contrast, only women in the lowest BMI segment of the study, less than 27.3kg/m2, showed an association between more soft-drink consumption and knee OA progression.

The researchers concluded that men who drink progressively more soft drinks each week may see their knee OA worsen progressively as well. It is unclear whether this problem is due to high-calorie soft drinks leading to excess weight burdening knees, or if there are other ingredients in soft drinks that contribute to OA progression.

Maintain Muscle Mass as you Age The International Osteoporosis Foundation (www.osteofound.org/) Nutrition Working Group published a new review identifying nutritional factors contributing to both loss and maintenance of muscle mass (sarcopenia) in seniors. It also confirmed the benefits of exercise in preventing muscle mass loss, in particular resistance training. Important nutritional factors shown to be beneficial in preventing sarcopenia include adequate protein and Vitamin D intake, and avoiding dietary acid loads (meat and cereal grains) that, when combined with low intake of fruits and vegetables, may have a negative effect on musculoskeletal health. Dr. Ambrish Mithal, co-author of the study, said “...available evidence suggests that combining resistance training with optimal nutritional status has a synergistic affect in preventing and treating sarcopenia.”

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February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

new you can use

Pocket Test Measures 50 Things in a Single Drop of Blood A new device about the size of a business card could allow health care providers to test for insulin and other blood proteins, cholesterol, and even signs of viral or bacterial infection all at the same time – with one drop of blood.

Preliminary tests of the V-chip, created by scientists at The Methodist Hospital Research Institute and MD Anderson Cancer Center, were published

by Nature Communications.

New Research Shows Music Improves Health and Disease support the experiences of complemenMusic has been incorporated into medical practice since before the ancient tary practitioners, who have long used music to help heal. For example, music Greeks. However, though practitioners reduces levels of serum cortisol in the have been convinced of music’s health blood. Cortisol increases metabolic activbenefits for thousands of years, there ity, suppresses the immune system and had been little peer-reviewed research to back them up. A 2012 scientific review, has been associated with both anxiety and depression. A number of studies have published in the journal Nutrition, shown that exposing post-operative collects information from a number of patients to music dramaticalstudies to support music’s ly lowers their cortisol influence on levels, enhancing health and their ability

to heal. Other studies in the review measured music’s impact on congestive heart failure, premature infants, immunity, digestive function and pain perception. In particular, music reduced the incidence of heart failure and showed that surgical patients required less sedation and postoperative pain medication.

www.primemontgomery.com | February 2013

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Celebrate the Sandwich S

andwiches are a delicious, easy and affordable way to enjoy a healthy meal any time of day. From meatand-cheese combos, to sandwiches piled high with savory vegetables, to the many "PB and..." combos, possibilities for outstanding sandwiches are limitless. But all the deliciousness starts with one key, wholesome ingredient - bread.

Bread’s complex carbohydrates provide lasting energy busy adults and youngsters need on a daily basis. A big key to maximizing your energy and health is taking a look at how you fill your plate in a

balanced way.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the USDA MyPlate program recommend eating six, one-ounce servings of grain foods each day, half of which should come from whole grain sources.

To get your "daily fix of six," the Grain Foods Foundation has partnered with celebrity chef and sandwich aficionado Bryan Voltaggio to create these sensational sandwiches. To find more great sandwich recipes, visit www.gowiththegrain.org or GoWithTheGrain on Facebook and Twitter.

Photo Credit: Bryan Voltaggio, chef; Photo courtesy of Under A Bushel; Photography #11368_UF; Source: Grain Foods Foundation 8

February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

The Pastrami Reuben (Makes 6 sandwiches) n 12 slices rye bread n 24 ounces sliced beef pastrami n 12 slices Muenster cheese, thin n 1 1/2 cups sauerkraut, prepared and drained n 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing n 2 ounces butter, at room temperature Place two slices of rye bread on a cutting board. Top first piece of bread with one slice of Muenster cheese, then about 2 ounces of sauerkraut, 4 ounces of pastrami (roughly three to four thin slices), and a second slice of Muenster cheese. Set aside.

Spread second piece of bread with Thousand Island dressing, place on top of the other half of the sandwich, and brush top and bottom of sandwich with butter.

If you own an electric sandwich maker or Panini press, place sandwich inside for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 minutes. If you don’t have a sandwich press, simply place sandwich in a saute’ pan on top of your stove, set at medium heat.

Cook for 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 minutes on

each side.

Remove sandwich, cut in half and serve.

The Banana, PB & Honey (Makes 6 sandwiches) n 12 slices enriched white bread n 6 bananas, sliced n 1 cup spiced peanut butter (see recipe) n 2 tablespoons honey n 1 teaspoon sugar n 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon n 2 ounces butter, at room temperature Place two slices of enriched white bread on a cutting board. Spread both slices of bread with peanut butter. Set one aside.

Take one slice, top with sliced bananas, then drizzle with honey. Place the reserved slice of bread on top.

Brush top and bottom of sandwich with room temperature butter and follow the same cooking directions as outlined above.

While cooking, combine cinnamon and the sugar in small bowl. Remove sandwich and, while still hot, season

liberally with cinnamon and sugar and cut and serve.

Spiced Peanut Butter (Yields 1 cup) n 1 cup peanut butter n 1 teaspoon salt n 1 3/4 teaspoons honey n 1/8 teaspoon ginger powder n 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until well blended. Place the peanut butter in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for 6 to 8 weeks.

The Pilgrim (PIctured on next page) (Makes 6 sandwiches) n 12 slices seven-grain bread n 24 ounces turkey, sliced n Orange Cranberry Compote, as needed (see recipe) n Sage Cream Cheese, as needed (see recipe) n 4 tablespoons butter, at room temperature n Seasoning salt, to taste (see recipe) Place two slices of seven grain bread

www.primemontgomery.com | February 2013

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on a cutting board. Spread Orange Cranberry Compote evenly across one slice of bread. Set aside.

Spread Sage Cream Cheese evenly across second slice of bread, then top with about four ounces of turkey. Place slice of bread with the Orange Cranberry Compote on top of turkey, brush top and bottom of sandwich with room temperature butter, and follow the same cooking directions as outlined above. Remove sandwich and, while still hot, season liberally with seasoning salt and cut and serve.

Orange Cranberry Compote (Yields 1 cup) n 1/2 pound cranberries n 1 orange, quartered n 1/4 cup sugar n 1/2 teaspoon salt n Pepper, to taste In medium sauce pot, cook cranberries, orange and sugar for approximately 20 minutes at a low simmer, then stir in a pinch of salt. Remove pieces of orange and pour into blender or food processor,. Puree until smooth then lightly season with pepper.

Sage Cream Cheese (Yields 2 cups) n 2 cups cream cheese, at room temperature n 15 sage leaves, finely chopped n 1 garlic clove n 1/2 teaspoon salt

In bowl, combine cream cheese and sage using a rubber spatula, mixing well. Grate (or very finely chop) garlic, adding to bowl. Season to taste with salt.

Seasoning Salt (Yields 1 cup) n 1/4 cup sea salt n 3 juniper berries, toasted and ground n 1 orange, zested Lightly toast juniper berries in a pan, then place in a spice grinder and blend. Put juniper, salt and orange zest in a mortar and pestle and combine all evenly.

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February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

“America Counts on CPAs™”

yard ‘n garden

A Horticultural Dream I

n the last few months my thoughts have gone back to childhood joys, and forward to adult joys. A joy I had as a child was going to Oak Park. It was closed then, yet the deer were still there. When my first son was born I took him there to feed the deer. I moved away from Montgomery, and upon returning, often drove past Oak Park and thought that such a wonderful place in the heart of the city should be turned into Montgomery’s Botanical Gardens.

Ethyl Dozier Boykin Mobile, Birmingham, Huntsville and Dothan all have Botanical Gardens, yet the capital city does not. It’s a dream I’m working to turn into a reality.

The Planetarium is there, and the Botanical Gardens would be an excellent compliment. The basic structure already exists -- fenced property, road running throughout, picnic areas.

Alabama State University just put in a new stadium across the street, and Jackson hospital sits across from the entrance. It’s also on an Interstate exit, another plus for the location.

A botanical gardens is a collection of plants and trees arranged to be both pleasing to view as well as educational. Such gardens provide examples of what grows well in the area, as well as how they’re grown. The Japanese Maple collection at the Birmingham Botanical Garden alone is a sight to behold, yet it’s just a small part of the whole garden. If you were thinking about planting a Japanese Maple, visit the garden in different seasons to see what they look like. This can help you make a better choice in plant selection for your home.

Alabama has a wealth of horticulture-related opportunities.

Auburn University has a first class horticulture program from which many local professionals have graduated. The nursery industry in our state is a major agricultural producer and a leader in plant production. Within easy driving distance of Montgomery are nurseries, greenhouses, sod and tree farms. Just off the Wire Road exit on I-85 is a large Japanese Maple farm, and further down, a huge greenhouse company that ships all over the Southeast.

Our local nursery owners are great folks. I’ve spoken to more than a dozen, and all would be willing to donate plants for a botanical gardens. Our area Master Gardeners are not merely people interested in horticulture. To secure that title they must undertake extensive coursework to learn all aspects of gardening. Following the coursework and qualification as a Master Gardener, they owe 40 hours of local volunteer work in horticulture.You can see where all this is going.

With the right partners -local nurseries, Master Gardeners, etc. -- we can make a botanical gardens not a horticultural dream, but a reality, and likely without a large investment of money.

What joy that would bring to residents and visitors alike.

Editor’s Note: Since November, 2010, Ethyl Dozier Boykin has penned our Yard ‘n Garden column, bringing readers insightful, informative pieces aimed at improving our homes’ exteriors with the beauty and style only growing things can bring. Sadly, this is Ethyl’s last Yard ‘n Garden column. We thank her for her valuable contribution to Prime, and wish her the very best in all future endeavors.

Social Security Disability Law

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“Practicing Social Security Disability Law for seventeen years.”

Call toto schedule schedule Call FREE aa FREE Consultation.

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The Strickland Building • 4252 Carmichael Rd. Suite 113 • Montgomery, AL 36106 334-272-6425 • 888-272-6465 (Toll Free) • E-mail brenda@brendavann.com No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers. www.primemontgomery.com | February 2013

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feature

Reel in the Deals in 2013

By Claire Yezbak Fadden

T

he saying goes: It’s OK to be thrifty, but not cool to be cheap. It’s a delicate distinction to draw for this daughter of a single mother who didn’t buy anything unless it was on sale or she had a coupon for it. Glorious was my mom’s smile on those rare occasions when she managed to get both ends of the deal working—on sale and with a coupon. The ride home from the store was happy for a then second-grade girl who may have scored new Barbie clothes, Scooter Pies for her lunch pail or a shiny pair of black patent leather shoes.

Unlike their mother, my sons never spent an afternoon at our kitchen table, painstakingly gluing green S&H trading stamps into pages of books, only to learn that you’re a few pages short of redeeming them for a toaster or a Teflon frying pan. Shawn, Jake and Seth haven’t witnessed gas wars where station attendants pump your gas, clean your windshield and give you a juice glass with every fill up.

None of my trio ever fished out a free dishtowel from inside a box of laundry detergent.

My guys have seen other thrift-minded routines, though. They’ve watched their mom covet a dollaroff coupon, look for the bonus box of 10 granola bars for the price of eight and scour the shelves searching for the shampoo bottle that promises 20 percent more. They understand the economic wisdom of a buy-one, get-one free. There may be no such thing as a free lunch, but they’ve dined using a $5.99 meal deal coupon.

In between watching Sunday football games, my sons have observed me peel off savings promotions attached to the newspaper’s front page and clip coupons from the inserts. The slips of paper, representing potential money-in-my-pocket, are filed by date and category in my teal-colored coupon caddy.

Along with my store loyalty card, offers on deodorant, tortilla chips and dish soap are ready to be cashed in on the next shopping trip.

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February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

My kids know to rummage through the coupon drawer located in the entryway table first, before spending their money on a game or two of bowling, a pizza or a car wash. My husband Nick combs through odd-sized bits of paper I’ve stored helter-skelter, in search of golf, fishing or dry cleaning discounts.

There’s disappointment if the prized coupon has expired.

Happily, saving money never goes out of style even if the methods for reeling in the deals have changed. I proudly carry on the frugal heritage instilled in my youth, incorporating technology that has enhanced my efforts to save a few bucks. Some supermarkets download discounts right on to your membership card, eliminating the need to clip coupons. I take advantage of deep discounts offered by groupon.com or other daily deal sites, and before I place an online order, I check first to see if there’s a percent off promo code or free shipping. Sites like retailmenot.com, dealio. com and couponmom.com have taken the scissors out of my hands, but still put the savings in my purse.

Being thrifty means more than gathering dollars and cents in a check register. It’s a challenge that, when conquered, frees me to be generous and--once-in-a-while--even extrava-

gant. When I’m not paying full price for a tube of mascara, a pot roast or a tune-up, I divert those funds into more meaningful uses. Instead of purchasing products, I have the freedom to spend my time and treasure on memories-a movie date with my husband, a girls’ night out (probably a wind-down Wednesday with half-off beverages and appetizers) or a much needed family getaway weekend.

More Wa y s t o S AV E ! !

Don’t miss percent-off promo codes or free shipping offers. Before heading out on your next shopping trip or clicking the order button, in addition to the sites mentioned in the article, visit these as well:

There’s evidence that my bargainminded values may have taken root in the next generation. Seth, my awayat-college son, called recently to brag about saving $50 on Internet installation.

In the next breath, he told me about last night’s dinner--two-for-the-price-ofone frozen pizzas. Now that deal would make any mom proud.

The author can be contacted at woman. at.heart@sbcglobal.net or follow her on Twitter @claireflaire.

Daily Deals: livingsocial.com tippr.com woot.com yipit.com zulily.com Coupons and Promo Codes: coupons.com couponcabin.com couponmountain.com dealnews.com flamingoworld.com freeshipping.org mycoupons.com redplum.com savingsmania.com smartsource.com shopathome.com thecouponclippers.com www.primemontgomery.com | February 2013

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feature

A Wine Re solution for 2013

By David White

A

sk a wine enthusiast to name his favorite value wines, and he’ll likely to steer you towards bottles costing $15 to $25 each. This makes sense — many oenophiles think nothing of dropping $25 or more on each bottle of wine. But this ignores market realities.

The average bottle of wine in the United States sells for $6.22, according to Nielsen.

Plus, 90 percent of all wines sold cost less than $12 per bottle.

Americans like to drink cheap, so a wine enthusiast’s “value” is a regular wine consumer’s “splurge”. In 2013, resolve to splurge more often. Even if this means drinking less wine to keep your budget balanced, your palate will thank you.

This isn’t to say wines costing less than, say, $10 per bottle are inevitably bad. There are plenty of satisfactory options at that price, and shelves at large store and big box retailers are full of such wines. But spending so little generally relegates you to mass-market brands benefiting

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February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

from economies of scale.

Spending $15-25 per bottle dramatically increases the possibility of finding an exciting wine — a wine both delicious and intellectually captivating.You can compare it to the difference between dining at one of the nationally franchised Italian restaurants, or eating at the local Italian joint. The former are predictably adequate, with heaping piles of salad, breadsticks, and focus-group-tested entrees. The latter is hitor-miss, but investigating such restaurants is always exciting. And exploration — with food, wine, and so much else — is the only way to discover underappreciated gems.

A few years ago, I interviewed David Denton, well-known wine educator and sommelier in Washington, DC. In explaining how he developed his passion for wine, he eloquently summarized the cerebral appeal of wine.

“Wine is like travel in a bottle,” said Denton. “For the cost of a bottle of wine, you can escape to somewhere

exotic.You can get lost in the label, thinking about where the wine came from and who made it.”

That sense of place — where a wine came from and who made it — is the primary reason wine is so engaging. It’s possible to find wines that inspire and pique curiosity for $10, but it’s much easier if you’re willing to spend a bit more.

At the $15 to $25 price point the options are virtually endless. Sure, even at $25, it’s nearly impossible to find Champagne, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, or high-quality Pinot Noir. But if you’re willing to drink bravely — to explore the unfamiliar by trying unusual grapes from unusual regions — you can sample some of the greatest wines in the world.

Last weekend I enjoyed a remarkable Blaufrankisch — the signature red wine of Austria – from Anton Iby, one of the nation’s best producers. It was fruity, spicy, distinctive, and absolutely delicious. And it cost just $16. Some of the best reds from Spain, Portugal, Italy, and even France can be found at similar

winery founded a distant 850 years ago by the Augustinian order of monks. Talk about history in a bottle!

So long as you’re willing to spend $15-25, you can easily explore some of the most renowned whites from South Africa, France, Italy, Austria, and Germany.

Early in the year is the perfect time to reflect on last year and make resolutions for the new one. For those of us who take wine seriously — or at least want to — it’s smart to include wine in our New Year’s resolutions. With the world of wine offering endless possibilities, make 2013 the year you explore those possibilities — and drink better!

prices.

On New Year’s Eve, I enjoyed two sparkling wines from France that wowed my friends — a Cremant d’Alsace from Joseph Pfister and a Cremant du Jura from Hubert Clavelin. The bottles were just $15 each. Sparkling wines from Alsace and the Jura have long offered exceptional value.

With whites, the options are similarly expansive.

In recent months, I’ve become obsessed with a Kerner, an extremely aromatic variety bred in 1929 by crossing Trollinger and Riesling. One of my favorites, retailing for $17, comes from Abazzia di Novacella, an Italian

David White is founder and editor of Terroirist.com, an online wine blog. His columns can be found at http://palatepress.com/ (Palate Press:The Online Wine Magazine).

Editor’s Note: ‘Terroir’ is the specific flavor imparted to wine by the soil in which the grapes are grown.

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15

feature

Heart Health Quiz A

recent report by the American Heart Association says the death rate from cardiovascular disease has fallen 30% in the last decade due to better treatment for heart attack, congestive heart failure and other heart disease. But this comes at a cost: expenditures for the care for heart disease rose $11 billion during the decade, and heart disease is still the No. 1 killer in the U.S. Education is the first step to lowering the risk of heart disease.

Take this short quiz to test your knowledge of heart care.

True or False?

1. The heart is a muscle.

2. Many diseases and conditions can contribute to the risk of heart disease.

3. A heart attack always begins with sharp chest pain.

4. The best thing to do if you experience heart attack symptoms is to call 911 right away.

5. Women need to worry more about breast cancer than heart disease.

6. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your heart.

7. If you have a family history of heart disease, you have exactly the same risk yourself.

8. High blood cholesterol is one of the top risk factors for heart attack.

9. As we grow older, it’s best to rest as much as possible.

10. Even a person who has suffered a heart attack should exercise.

11. It’s possible to eat a “heart smart” diet even if you dine out often.

12. Emotional stress and anxiety can worsen a heart condition.

Answers 1. The heart is a muscle. TRUE—The heart is the hardest working muscle in the body, pumping enough blood in your lifetime to fill a supertanker!

2. Many diseases and conditions can contribute to the risk of heart disease. TRUE—A number of conditions, including hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol and diabetes, increase the risk of heart disease.

3. A heart attack always begins with sharp chest pain. FALSE—A heart attack can begin slowly, with subtle signals.

Symptoms can include: a) feeling of pressure or discomfort in the chest, b) discomfort in the arms, neck, back, jaw or stomach, c) shortness of breath, d) nausea, dizziness, sweating for no reason, e) fatigue and lack of energy.

4. The best thing to do if you experience heart attack symptoms is to call 911 right away. TRUE— ”Better safe than sorry” is very true when it comes to heart attack. Excellent treatments are now available, and the sooner treatment begins, the better the chance of saving the patient’s life and preventing disability. If you experience chest pain, especially if associated with any other of the signs listed above, call 911 right away. Acting quickly can save your life.

5. Women need to worry more about breast cancer than heart disease. FALSE—Women are far more likely to die of cardiovascular disease than from breast cancer. It is a myth that heart disease is primarily a men’s health problem.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women—and more women than men die within one year of a heart attack.

6. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your heart. TRUE—Smoking is one of the top risk factors for heart disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cigarette smokers are up to four times more likely to develop heart disease. And even if you don’t smoke, exposure to secondhand smoke may raise your risk by up to 30%.

7. If you have a family history of heart disease, you have exactly the same risk yourself. FALSE—Although your risk increases if a family member was diagnosed with heart disease, it’s not all in the genes! A healthy lifestyle can cut your risk. Obesity and inactivity are greater risk factors than genetic inheritance for most people. Here are the steps to take to lower the risk. a) If you smoke, quit; b) take steps to lower blood pressure and cholesterol level; c) increase physical activity; d) maintain a healthy weight; e) if you are diabetic, follow your care plan.

8. High blood cholesterol is one of the top risk factors for heart attack. TRUE—Lowering your cholesterol level through diet and lifestyle changes (and in some cases, medication) can cut your risk.

9. As we grow older, it’s best to rest as much as possible. FALSE—The older you are, the more important regular physical exercise is to your well-being. Inactivity can lead to a downward spiral of decline. Ask your healthcare provider about an exercise program that’s right for you.

10. Even a person who has suffered a heart attack should exercise. TRUE—For most patients, preventing another heart attack will include a cardiac rehabilitation program. Be sure you discuss your workout regimen with your healthcare provider and follow his or her instructions.

11. It’s possible to eat a “heart smart” diet even if you dine out often. TRUE—Most menus feature at least a few low-fat, low-cholesterol, low-sodium items. Avoid fried foods, instead selecting baked or broiled. (If you aren’t sure how a dish is prepared, ask your server.) Skip dessert, and order your salad with low-fat dressing served on the side.

12. Emotional stress and anxiety can worsen a heart condition. TRUE—Stressful emotions can raise your blood pressure, causing your heart to work harder. Lifestyle changes and relaxation techniques help lessen the effects of stress.

(This article is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Speak to your healthcare provider if you have questions about heart health or heart disease.)

16 February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

off the beaten path

The Band Plays On...

It was cold, tucked against a cypress stump in waist-deep water, Bella whining softly at my side. She whimpered not from pain or discomfort, but anticipation, hearing ducks whizz by in the dark, catching their silhouettes against the sky as they dropped down Niko Corley over the moonlit treetops into the pond, touching down with a barely audible splash.

Bella wanted to break from her perch above the water and chase down the birds she could smell swimming around somewhere in the dark, but it was not yet legal shooting light. I glanced at my watch, counting down the minutes. Hunkered against a tree in a swamp, fueled by caffeine and boy/puppyhood excitement, these minutes are an eternity.

The first shot came from our host at the other end of the tree line, then the splash. I couldn’t mark the fall, but Bella had heard it, too, and wanted to go.

“Siiiiiit,” I whispered, as a pair of black shapes whistled toward us in the bare visibility of dawn’s light. I tightened my grip on stock and forearm and clicked off the safety. The sound brought Bella to attention.

I fired at the rear bird, missing it, then swung through and dropped it before downing the lead bird. Bella had clearly marked both, and on command, leapt from her dry perch into the frigid pond, swimming determinedly toward the pair of still forms on the water.

She retrieved the first, dropped it, then turned without instruction toward the second bird. I helped her onto the platform, patting her on the head with a “gooood dog.” You spend time with a dog, raising it, training it, correcting it, and with each step build toward the next, and toward the ultimate goal

of a morning’s hunt where so many things can go wrong, but nothing does. Along the way, you learn as much about yourself as you do the dog, and the good ones, the really good ones, turn out to be those with whom you’ve spent the most time.

After this first pair of woodies the skies opened up.

Ducks appear from all directions, pouring in from the sides, riding the wind down onto the pond. Our party fired shell after shell at the speeding swamp specters. This hole had clearly not been hunted for some time, as the birds had no fear of any entrance or escape route in or out of the pond.

From a distance, neighboring landowners must have thought we were recreating the shootout at the OK Corral.

I was selective about Bella’s retrieves to be sure she was not at risk of catching a stray bit of steel. Even so, as the only dog in our party, dead ducks piled up on her stand, leaving her little room to maneuver. More than once she fell in while turning to watch and mark birds through the trees.

Our party had no trouble reaching its limits. After the hunt – which lasted no more than 15 minutes – Bella “cleaned up the field,” retrieving the remaining ducks. On a hunt like this, even though you keep track of your limit, you lose track of who shot which birds. On the last retrieve, as Bella swam toward me duck-in-mouth, a glint of silver caught my eye. She mounted the stand and at a word dropped a drake wood duck into my hand, revealing a well-worn metal band on its yellow leg. I smiled and patted Bella on the head, adding an extra-long “goooood dog” into that moment that yielded the buried treasure of waterfowl hunting.

I’m not certain where or when the bird was banded. After calling the number on the band I was assured the certificate would arrive soon and answer those questions. Neither am I sure whose bird it really was. I do know, however, that drake wood duck make a fine dinner, and years from how, long after Bella and I retire from duck hunting, this hunt, and the treasure it yielded, will play on in my mind.

Niko Corley spends his free time hunting, fishing, boating, and generally enjoying outdoor activities. He can be contacted at cootfootoutfitters@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter@cootfootoutfitters. www.primemontgomery.com | February 2013

17

Rambling Art,Near Atlanta Archaeology, Native Culture, Natural Beauty

feature

Story by Andrea Gross Photos by Irv Green

Horton’s bookstore (above) founded in 1892, is one of the oldest bookstores in the U.S. Carrollton’s Quilt and Textile Museum (below) showcases fine works of art by regional quilters.The 4 Way Lunch (opposite), often called the “heart” of Cartersville, is housed in a 1912 building that was once a Coca Cola drink stand.

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February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

I

love old-style books — you know, the kind printed on paper and stored on shelves rather than in clouds.

Here, in Horton’s, the oldest bookstore in Georgia and the tenth oldest in the nation, books from bestsellers to travel guides are lined on antique shelving dating back to the store’s founding in 1892.

The one-story brick building in Carrollton’s town square was built in the 1880s and has a warm, comfortable atmosphere. I select a book, and the cashier rings it up on a stately brass cash register that has been there since the store’s first owner, N.A. Horton, abandoned paper-and-pencil transactions in 1914.

Then I walk through a connecting door to the newsstand, order an icy mocha drink and sit down to plot my route through northwest Georgia, where I’ll find remnants of a thriving Native culture, good art, and enough outdoor activities keep me happily healthy. Here are overviews of three small towns, each within 65 miles of Atlanta: Rome So named because, like the Italian capital, it is built on seven hills, Rome is the big city of northwest Georgia. As such, it’s a perfect hub for exploring nearby towns and attractions. [www.romegeorgia.org] What you’ll love:

n Time traveling back to the early 1800s, when the Cherokee were flourishing in north Georgia. First, visit the Chieftain’s Museum in Rome, a must for those wanting insight into the events leading up to the Cherokees forced removal from the eastern United States. Then drive a half hour north to Calhoun to see the Chief Vann House, one that is as elegant as any owned by European settlers. Finally, visit New Echota State Historic Site near Calhoun, the place where the Trail of Tears officially began. n Meandering through the magnificent gardens and art-filled home of nineteenth-century Southern dynamo, Martha Berry. Berry began by teaching impoverished youngsters how to read and went on to establish Berry College, one of the Southeast’s most respected small liberal arts institutions. n Climbing the terraced hills of Myrtle Hill Cemetery to see the Tomb of the Known Soldier. Charles W. Graves, an infantryman randomly selected to represent the “Known Dead” of WW I, was slated to be buried in Arlington alongside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, but at his mother’s request, he instead was interred in his hometown.

Carrollton This small town of 24,000 people offers down-home life at its best. The pace is slow, the people friendly and the

www.primemontgomery.com | February 2013

19

festivals frequent. [www.visitcarrollton.com] What you’ll love: n Whiling away the hours at Horton’s Bookstore, followed by a leisurely stroll through the historic district. A pamphlet, available at the Visitors Center, details eighteen homes from the nineteenth century and explains the difference between a balustrade and a bargeboard, a gable and a portico. n Admiring the handiwork of Southern quilters at the new Quilt and Textile Museum. The museum is fittingly located in an old cotton warehouse. n Driving the West Georgia Textile Heritage Trail. This rapidly expanding trail weaves past mills and manufacturing plants that date back to the days when cotton was king. n Testing your athletic prowess at Banning Mills, organized as a 501c3 Conservancy. Here you can hike trails, ride horses, kayak rivers, climb the Guinness-certified world’s tallest climbing wall (140-feet high) and zip along the world’s longest continuous zip line (seven miles long).

Cartersville Population 20,000, Cartersville is a small town filled with big-city attractions, from top rated museums to a vibrant downtown. [www.visitcartersvillega.org] What you’ll love: n Ogling first-class art at the Booth Western Art Museum, a Smithsonian partner. In addition to contemporary Western art, the museum houses more than 200 Native American artifacts and original letters from every president of the United States. n Staring at stars as well as fossils at another Smithsonian affiliate, the Tellus Science Museum. A 120-seat digital planetarium and a full-size replica of a 40-foot Tyrannosaurus Rex make this museum a regional favorite. n Visiting cleverly named and stocked stores such as Write Downtown, King’s Knit-wit and Swheat Market. Be prepared to spend more time — and money — than you intended at Spring Place Pottery, where owner Gail Freeman showcases her work alongside that of equally talented regional artisans. n Gobbling classic food at two Cartersville institutions, Ross’s Diner and 4 Way Lunch. Both dish up burgers and hotdogs with all the trimmings; both are packed with locals, especially during lunch. n Climbing atop the 63-foot hill at the Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Park, inhabited by Native Americans from 1000 A.D. to 1550 A.D. A small museum shows artifacts that help visitors imagine daily life atop and around the mounds.

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February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

Cherokee Chief James Vann’s home (above) features beautiful hand carvings, a charming “floating” staircase and a 12-foot mantle.To raise money for education, Martha Berry entertained the country’s elite at her home and gardens (center).

Booth Western Art Museum (bottom) prides itself on art of the American West but has a fine collection of American Southeast art.

Crafter’s COrner

Sugar Scrub

A

for All Seasons

A

s we think (and eagerly await) the return of Spring and Summer, it’s important to think of things we can do now to get ready for those warm-weather activities. This month’s Sugar Hand Scrub serves two purposes.

One, its rough texture will help get rid of dry, dead winter skin. Two, as we get back in the garden, it’s a soap to clean up with after playing in the dirt. It’s simple and Callie Corley smells oh, so good.

Ingredients: Sugar, Dawn Oil of Olay® Hand Soap and containers. (The Oil of Olay® soap helps to keep your hands from drying out.)

The most important and difficult part of this craft is getting your proportions right, which all depends on the size of your container.

After washing your containers, pour in the sugar.

You want the mixture to be 3 parts sugar, 1 part soap.

If you’re unsure about how much to add, start off slowly.

The consistency of the mixture should be pasty; thick, but not difficult to stir

and definitely not runny.

I recommend pouring in enough sugar to fill 3/4 of the container then slowly adding the soap. Having two containers to work with helped me get the mixture proportions right.

And remember, it’s easier to add more soap or sugar,, but nigh impossible to remove either once they’re mixed.

Keep adding slowly and stirring until the mixture is just right. It should “plop” off your spoon back into the jar. If you want a scented scrub, add a drop or two of vanilla extract or an essential oil like lavender.

One jar of the Sugar Scrub will last a long time, because you only need about a finger tip’s worth to get a good scrub on your hands.You can (as I did) make them and give them away as hostess gifts.

Callie Corley began crafting when she was old enough to hold a pencil, squeeze a glue bottle, and use a pair of scissors. If you have craft ideas to share, send instructions and photos to primemagdesign@gmail.com.

CLOVERDALE

PLAYHOUSE

— THE ELIZABETH CRUMP THEATRE —

Cabaret

February 14-24 Tickets $20 For information/tickets: 334-262-1530 boxoffice@cloverdaleplayhouse.org 960 Cloverdale Road

I nominate

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There are businesses who carry the torch for good. We ask you to bring them to light.

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Nominations Open from December 01, 2012 through February 10, 2013 The annual River Region Ethics in Business Awards recognize finalists and recipients in five different categories for their commitment to the highest ethical principles in the workplace.

The awards are presented by The Samaritan Counseling Center, Inc. in collaboration with Auburn University Montgomery’s Schools of Business and Sciences. To nominate Celebrating Midlife and Beyond a deserving business or individual visit www.riverregionethics.com.

3ULPH

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February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

Gardening Lunch & Learn Series

Capital City Master Gardeners Assn.

Montgomery Learning Arts Center 1018 Madison Ave. Feb. 6 (1st Wed. each month).

Noon-1 pm. FREE Featured titles will include “Container Gardening”, “Seed Starting”, “Plant Propagation” and more.

For information call 270-4133. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service will be provided at each session at no cost.

Prudent Prepping

moneywise

I

n recent years a spate of post-apocalyptic films have been popular: 2012, The Postman, The Book of Eli, The Hunger Games, I Am Legend (remake of The Omega Man). In addition, National Geographic TV airs the series Doomsday PrepAlan Wallace pers. American interest in this subject is not, however, a new development.

As a school boy in Miami, I remember ads for underground bomb/fallout shelters, stocked with supplies to sustain a family underground for a year or two while “the dust settled.” Then there was Y2K, which prompted people to prepare for major disruptions from technological failures.

The book Hurtling Toward Oblivion by Richard Swenson makes the point that technological developments have given individuals and small groups a disproportionate ability to affect large populations, and that all technology can be used for good or ill. As a result, society is increasingly at the mercy of people who may misapply the leverage of technology, either intentionally or by accident.

Regardless of one’s view of doomsday scenarios, disruptive events do occur and it makes sense to prepare for them to some degree.

Most regions of the globe are at risk for natural disasters, and Montgomery is not excluded.

Since 1970 Central Alabama has dealt with hurricanes, tornados, snowstorms and floods. (I think we’re safe from tsunamis and avalanches.)

Human action adds to the risk of disruptions.

What level of preparation is prudent and reasonable? Ultimately the only person who can answer that question for you is you, in consultation with your family. When people ask me about financial preparation, here are two ideas that I offer.

Many disruptions will affect the power grid for some period of time. No electricity means that stores, gas stations, banks, etc. will be unable to transact business as normal.Your cards—credit, debit, card and ATM—will not work until power is back on. Checks may not be accepted. Therefore, it is a good idea to have some cash on hand.Vendors are more likely to accept currency than any other form of payment.You can determine how much is enough, but I suggest a few hundred dollars as a minimum. Then, figure out a place to keep it where you can easily retrieve it but a thief will not find it.

Keep a ready supply of items necessary for life and safety. Among these are: food and potable fluids, sources of light and heat, gas in a can, alternative means for cooking, first aid supplies, medicines, basic tools, duct tape, plastic sheeting, rubber hose and rope.You may also want to consider a portable generator. Some people will not feel secure without firearms and ammunition. Since gasoline does not have an indefinite shelf life, use and replace your emergency supply three to four times a year. If you have advance warning of a possible disruption, fill up all of your vehicles with gasoline.You then have the options of leaving the affected area temporarily after assessing the situation or selling excess gasoline to others in need (using your rubber hose as a siphon).

In conclusion, keeping a clear head in a disaster is invaluable, allowing one to “adapt and overcome.” Following the Boy Scout motto by prudent preparation will give you more flexibility and peace of mind when that semi-apocalyptic event takes place.

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 | February 2013

23

feature

$ave I

Big on Prescription Drug$

By Bob Moos Southwest regional public affairs officer, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

f you’ve ever gone a day without your medications or cut your pills in half to make them last a little longer, there may be relief for you. People on a tight budget can get help paying for the premiums, deductible and co-payments in their Medicare drug plan. About 10 million people – about one in three people with Medicare drug coverage – now enjoy the break. But another 2 million may qualify for the help yet don’t even realize it. They’re missing out on hundreds, maybe thousands, of dollars in savings each year.

Recent changes in the law make it easier than ever to qualify for the “extra help” program. Even if you applied and didn’t qualify before, you may be eligible now. The amount of additional assistance you’d receive depends on your income and resources.

If you qualify for full help, you’ll pay no more than $2.65 for a generic drug and $6.60 for a brand-name drug. If you qualify for partial help, you’ll pay no more than 15 percent of the cost of your drugs. The program is estimated to save someone $4,000 a year on average.

So, if you’re having difficulty affording your prescriptions, it’s worth checking out.

To get the subsidy, your resources can’t be more than $13,070 if you’re single or $26,120 if you’re a married couple living together. Bank accounts, stocks and bonds count as resources, but homes, cars and personal belongings do not. Also, your annual income can’t be more than $16,755 if you’re single or $22,695 if you’re a married couple living together.

If you support family members who live with you, however, your income can be higher. In addition, the government won’t count any money you receive from friends or family for household expenses like food, rent, mortgage payments, utilities and property taxes.

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February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

Does that sound like you? Then give yourself a break and apply. Or if you have parents or other loved ones whom you think might benefit, reach out to them. Helping them save money on their prescriptions is one of the best things you could do for them.

There are three ways to sign up for extra help: n Visit the Social Security website, socialsecurity.gov/extrahelp. The online application offers step-bystep instructions and lets you work at your own pace. n Call Social Security’s toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, to apply over the phone or request an application.

Ask for Form SSA-1020, fill it out and return it by mail. n Go to your local Social Security office and request help.

It’s not hard to complete the form, but you’ll need your Social Security number and information about your bank balances, pensions and investments. Social Security will review your application and send you a letter within a few weeks letting you know whether you qualify.

When you sign up for extra help, Social Security can also assist you in

applying for state-run programs that pay for some of your other Medicare costs.

Those are called Medicare Savings Programs, and depending on your resources and income, they can help cover the out-of-pocket costs for other parts of Medicare.

Get in touch with Social Security today and start saving.

Kynard Kynard Korner’s Korner’s

ReinVintage Boutique Boutique

vintage apparel & accessories nnnnn

“Where Mardi Gras meets Valentine’s Day.” nnnnn

Eastbrook Flea Market & Antique Mall 425 Coliseum Blvd.

Montgomery • 334-799-0709 nkynard@yahoo.com

KynardKornerReinVintageBoutique

The Montgomery Ballet 2013 Season Darren McIntyre, Artistic Director

Tickets:etix.com or 1-800-514-3849 Information:334-409-0522 montgomeryballet.org

Love is in the Air, Feb. 15, 16 (Valentines Gala, The Courtyard)

The Sleeping Beauty, Mar. 15-17 Don Quixote, July 26, 27 The Phantom of the Opera, Oct. 11-13 Christmas Spectacular, Dec. 7, 8 The Nutcracker, Dec. 13-15

Except where noted, all performances held at the Davis Theatre.

The

Conductor’s Season Montgomery Symphony Orchestra

Classical Season continues Concert IV • Monday, February 18 • 7:30pm Concert V • Monday, April 29 • 7:30pm

Fellowship Series continues Cello, Sunday, February 10 • 2:30pm Violin, Tuesday, March 26 • 7:30pm Cello, Tuesday, April 23 • 7:30pm Violin, Tuesday, May 7 • 7:30pm montgomerysymphony.org / 240-4004 www.primemontgomery.com | February 2013

25

Prime Montgomery Editor Elected to Public Relations Board • Treasurer – Mark Ingram, PowerSouth Energy Co-op Prime Montgomery Editor Sandra Polizos was recently • Historian – Victoria Belton, Mtgy Area Transit System elected to the Board of Directors of the Montgomery • VP Membership – Buffy Lockette, AUM Chapter of the Public Relations Council of Alabama • VP Programs – Ashley Lay(PRCA). son, AL AgCredit “PRCA provides a won• VP Projects – Megan derful platform for public Hughes, AUM relations people to come together, discuss issues, and help • VP Communications – Sallie Gowan, Assn, of Co. Commisimprove the overall product sions of Alabama we all put out,” Polizos said.

• VP Education/Accreditation PRCA is a professional or– Edith Parten, AL Tourism ganization established to proDept. mote and maintain high stan• VP Students – Krista dards of public service and Hawkins, Hyundai Motor conduct within the field of Manufacturing public relations, and provide • Member-at-Large – Sandra opportunities for exchanging Polizos, Prime Montgomery ideas and experiences among and Saint James School PR professionals.

Recently elected members of the Board of Directors of the Public • Past President & Ethics The Montgomery PRCA Relations Council of Alabama, Montgomery Chapter.

Chair – Diane Christy, AL board is comprised of these Society of CPAs community leaders: Public relations professionals who would like to con• Pres. – Melissa Bowman, AL Hospital Association. nect with this network should visit the chapter’s website at • Pres. Elect – Kristi Gates, AL Dept. of Mental Health www.prcamontgomery.org.

• Secretary – Minnie Lamberth, Freelance Writer

INTRODUCING

Karen Flanagan, DO Specializing in Family Medicine

Dr. Karen Flanagan joins the Jackson Clinic Family Medicine Center. She is boardcertified in family practice and osteopathic manipulative treatment. Dr. Flanagan is a graduate of Northeast Missouri State University and earned her Doctor of Osteopathy degree from The Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, MO. Dr. Flanagan is now accepting new patients, including Medicare patients. She has a special interest in geriatrics and offers complete care to her patients, including continuing care in the hospital.

Dr. Flanagan is now located at 1801 Pine Street, Suite 301 on the Jackson Hospital campus. To schedule an appointment call 334-265-5577.

Another great reason to choose www.jackson.org/clinic

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February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

Boggle Answers LONDON

DUBLIN

BERLIN

ATHENS

PRAGUE VIENNA

Celebrate Valentine’s Day

Mr. Gus’ Ristorante

Valentine’s Day Dinner Appetizer Bruschetta Entree’ Surf ‘n Turf 4 oz Filet ccine Alfredo u tt Fe p m ri Sh n ia en th A w/asparagus Dessert ing Chocolate Bread Pudd

Tuesda 11:00 a.m y-Friday .-2 4:30 - 9:0 :30 p.m.

0 p.m.

Satu 6:00 a.m. rday - 2: 4:30 - 9:0 00 p.m.

0 p.m.

For Reservations Call 334-356-4662 6268 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery www.primemontgomery.com | February 2013

27

Understanding Medicare Part B social security

Y

ou may already know that Medicare is a medical insurance program for people who are 65 or older and for people who are disabled at any age. Some people are covered only by one type of Medicare; others opt to pay extra for more coverage. Understanding Medicare can save you money.

If you’re eligible for and want to be covered by Medicare Part B medical Kylle’ McKinney insurance, now is the time to sign up.

The general enrollment period for Medicare Part B runs from January 1 through March 31. Before you make a decision about general enrollment, here is some useful information.

There are four parts to Medicare: Parts A, B, C and D. Part A helps pay for inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing care, hospice care, and other services. Part B helps pay for doctors’ fees, outpatient hospital visits, and other medical services and supplies not covered by Part A. Part C allows you to choose to receive all of your health care services through a managed health care organization. These plans, known as Medicare Advantage Plans, may help lower your costs of receiving medical services, or you may get extra benefits for an additional monthly fee.You must have both Parts A and B to enroll in Part C. And Part D is the Medicare Prescription Drug Program.

There is a monthly premium for Medicare Part B. In 2013, the standard premium is $104.90. Some high-income individuals pay more than the standard premium.Your Part B premium also can be higher if you do not enroll during your initial enrollment period, or when you first become eligible.

There are exceptions to this rule. For example, you can delay your Medicare Part B enrollment without having to pay higher premiums if you are covered under a group health plan based on your own current employment or the current employment of any family member. If this situation applies to you, you have a “special enrollment period” in which to sign up for Medicare Part B, without paying the premium surcharge for late enrollment. This rule allows you to: Enroll in Medicare Part B at any time while you are covered under a group health plan based on your own current employment or the current employment of any family member; or Enroll in Medicare Part B during the eight month period that begins following the last month your group health coverage ends, or following the month employment ends, whichever comes first.

If you receive disability benefits and have coverage from a

working family member, the same rules apply.

If you live in one of the 50 states or Washington D.C. and you’re already receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits or railroad retirement payments, you will be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B automatically. However, because you must pay a premium for Part B coverage, you have the option of turning it down.

If you don’t enroll in Medicare Part B when you first become eligible to apply and you don’t fall under the special enrollment period, you’ll have to wait until the general enrollment period, which is January 1 through March 31 of each year. At that time, you may have to pay a higher Medicare Part B premium.

For more information about Medicare, visit the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) website at www. medicare.gov. Or read our publication on Medicare at www. socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10043.html.

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

MCA_Ad_01.13_Prime_Layout 1 1/2/13 2:00 PM Page 1 mckinney@ssa.gov

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February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

moving free with mirabai

Eat Berries & De-stress: One Way to a Healthy Heart

March 8–24; May 12–18

F

ebruary is Heart Month. With heart disease the Number #1 killer of men and women, I thought I’d focus on prevention. After all, if you prevent heart disease you’re unlikely to die from it.

A new Harvard study* says women who eat three or more servings of strawberries or blueberries a week can lower their risk of heart attack by 32%. The study also says grapes, eggplant and blackberries may Mirabai Holland work, too. It’s those flavonoids again; antioxidants you find in red wine.

Nowadays you can get berries year round and they’re a perfect low calorie dessert, in smoothies or sprinkled on your cereal. So let’s have a few berries, some eggplant and a glass of Cabernet.

A series of studies by Columbia University Medical Center** says whether or not we perceive ourselves as stressed can be a measure of whether or not we’ll have a heart attack in the future. From now on I’m not going to perceive myself as stressed. Seriously.

My clients who exercise regularly, particularly aerobic exercise, tend to think of themselves as being more relaxed.

And they ARE more relaxed. Aerobic exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural tranquilizer, and they know they’re getting the heart benefits of all that cardio.

For the maximum benefit from cardio exercise, you should build up to 45 or more minutes at 60 to 80% of your max heart rate.You can ease-in with a few minutes a day at a comfortable pace and build up.

So here’s the formula: eat berries, drink wine, and exercise away your stress. * High Anthocyanin Intake Is Associated With a Reduced Risk of Myocardial Infarction in Young and Middle-Aged Women http:// circ.ahajournals.org/content/127/2/188.full?sid=76f659dd-8b284557-b1f9-3df8eaa2502b **Meta-Analysis of Perceived Stress and Its Association With Incident Coronary Heart Disease http://www.ajconline.org/article/ S0002-9149%2812%2901929-7/abstract Mirabai Holland M.F.A. is a leading authority in the Health & Fitness industry and a public health activist specializing in preventive and rehabilitative exercise. Her Moving Free® approach to exercise is designed to provide a movement experience so pleasant it doesn't feel like work (www.mirabaiholland.com).

By Christopher Sergel, Adapted from the novel by Harper Lee

An American Classic The play that Alabama is most proud to call its own comes to inspired life on ASF’s stage.

Set in Depression-era Monroeville, and told through the voice of the beloved tomboy Scout, this Pulitzer Prize-winning tale embodies the life-long lessons of childhood, fairness and the courage to stand up for what is right, no matter the cost.

@ ALABAmA SHAkeSpeAre FeStivAL 1-800-841-4273

www.ASF.net

/alabamashakes

/alabamashakes

www.primemontgomery.com | February 2013

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in every life

I

Arlene Morris

Wise Health Consumer

have always associated February with American Heart Month, but recently learned itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also Wise Health Consumer Month. We are bombarded daily with advertisements to purchase all types of health care products and pharmaceuticals, so how can we become a wise health consumer?

Health should be considered along a continuum, and health choices based on several goals: n promoting our best health and prevent-

ing disease managing health concerns that arise n preventing side effects from treatments or progression of illnesses n modifying our roles or living environment to maximize function in spite of conditions Genetic predisposition and environment influences must also be considered.

For example, a family history of hypertension, stroke, or diabetes alerts you to the need to exercise, maintain appropriate weight and blood pressure, avoid tobacco, and have regular screenings by a healthcare provider. A concurrent family history of osteoporosis would include all of the above plus monitoring of calcium,Vitamin D, and bone density. A wise health consumer considers their potential for disease development and makes lifestyle behavior choices to prevent or delay them as well as manage them if/when they occur.

What about the numerous medication advertisements and information available on the TV and the Internet? Websites abound with the latest, greatest cure, but consider the source.

If the source stands to profit from selling the product, be wary. Even WebMD is sponsored by pharmaceutical companies. Look for credentials of any author giving health advice or promoting a product. Is the information based on personal n

opinion, or is it the results of well-designed randomized controlled trials? What were the characteristics of the sample involved in the trial? If the sample was young adults, can you expect the same results for older persons? What were the other variables in the study? Were the participants athletes?

Would your outcome likely be the same if you chose to base your health decisions on the results of one study?

Better information can be obtained by comparing several well-designed randomized controlled trials which are analyzed to determine outcomes in spite of different geographic areas, ages, race, diet, etc. Using multiple research findings provides a larger sample with various characteristics, making the information more generalizable.

Results from reports comparing several research studies can be obtained from the National Institutes of Health (www.hih. gov.), perhaps specifically from the National Institute of Aging http:// www.nia.nih.gov/), other government agencies, or professional associations (e.g., the American Heart Association) or other well respected resources (www.MedlinePlus.gov).

Two important questions to ask: n Does this information actually apply to my specific situation? n How likely is it this product or activity will actually help my specific situation?

A wise health consumer will discuss the risks and possible benefits of healthcare choices with a trusted healthcare provider, considering possible interactions with other healthcare treatments.

Arlene H. Morris is Professor of Nursing at Auburn Montgomeryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School of Nursing. She can be reached at amorris@aum.edu.

FREE Pancake Supper for Prime Montgomery Readers!

The Annual Pancake Supper held at The Church of the Holy Comforter is offering Prime Montgomery readers a FREE meal! Bring this notice to the Pancake Supper and the meal is FREE!. The event is Tuesday, February 12, at 6 p.m., 2911 Woodley Road, Montgomery. For information call 334-281-1337.

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February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

calendar

Send us your Events!

If your organization is hosting an event, e-mail the information to primemontgomery@gmail.com no later than the 15th of the month prior to the month of the event. Include the name/description of the event, location, date(s) and time(s), and an e-mail and phone contact for the public.

Tell us if the event is free, and if not, the cost to participate.

Calendar placement is on a space-available basis.

Recurring/multi-month events should be sent each month.

SUPPORT GROUPS/ASSISTANCE Cancer -- Tues., 10-11 am, Mtgy Cancer Center. For info 334-279-6677.

Cancer -- The Wellness Foundation. Help with prescriptions, transportation, wigs, medical devices. For info. 334-273-2279, visit www.cancerwellnessfoundation.org. 4145 Carmichael Rd. Alzheimer’s/Dementia -- 1st Thurs., 11 am, Frazer Church. For info 334-272-8622.

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

Hearing Loss -- 2nd Thurs., 4 pm, First United Methodist Church. Speakers, hearing screenings, refreshments. For info. call 334-262-3650.

Mental Illness -- 2nd. Mon., Dalraida UMC Church Annex, 3817 Atlanta Hwy. For info. 334-396-4797.

Vietnam Veterans of America -- 1st. Mon., 6:30 pm.

Crazy Buffet, Atlanta Hwy. Meals, transportation, outreach services, exercise class, Bible study, bingo.Various days, times, locales.

Montgomery Area Council on Aging, 115 E. Jefferson St. For info. 334-263-0532.

THEATRE/MUSIC/DANCE/ART A Southern Exposure, Wetumpka Depot Players, 300 S. Main St. Jan. 31-Feb. 2, Feb. 7-9. For info., 334-8681440, www.wetumpkadepot.com. $10 in advance, $12 at the door and online.

The Drowsy Chaperone, Faulkner Dinner Theatre, Faulkner U. Feb. 7-9, 14-16, 21-23. Tickets $15 (play only), $25 (dinner and play). For info. 334-386-7190, boxoffice@faulkner.edu. Discount for military and groups of 30 or more. Reservations must be paid in advance.

Fibromyalgia -- 3rd Tues., 6-8 pm, Frazer Church. For info, 334-272-8622.

Cabaret, Cloverdale Playhouse, Feb. 14-24. 960 Cloverdale Rd. Tickets $20. For info. 334-262-1530, boxoffice@cloverdaleplayhouse.org.

Gluten Intolerance -- 2nd Thurs., 6-7 pm, Taylor Rd. Baptist Church. For info., Ruth Givens, ruthgivens5@ gmail.com, or http://gfmontgomery.blogspot.com.

Fair and Tender Ladies, Red Door Theatre, Union Spring.. Feb. 14-17. For info. For info. 334-738-8687, conecuhpeople@knology.net.

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

Much Ado About Nothing, Prattville Theatre, 1315 Upper Kingston Rd. Feb. 14-17. Tickers $5. For info. 334-3658804, prattvilletheatre@hotmail.com.

Disabled American Veterans -- Last Thurs., 5:30 pm.

906 Maxwell Blvd.Vets of all conflicts. For info. call 334-294-1551.

Songwriters-in-the-Round, Cloverdale Playhouse, Joe Thomas, Jr. Guitar Pull. Feb. 19, 7-9 pm. $10. For info.

334-262-1530. www.primemontgomery.com | February 2013

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calendar The Princess Stories, Alabama Dance Theatre, Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. Mar. 1-3 (Sat. and Sun. matinees have “Meet the Princesses” event for children.) For info. 334-241-2800, alabamadancetheatre.com. Tickets $15-$30.

OTHER EVENTS Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Tues.-Sat. 10 am-5 pm, Sun. 10 am-9 pm.

FREE. Donations welcome. For info. 334-240-4333, www.mmfa.org. Displayed through Mar. 17: 1) In Company With Angels: Seven Rediscovered Tiffany Windows 2) Thornton Dial Thoughts on Paper 3) Cam Langley GLASS. The MMFA also provides FREE docent lead tours.

Sun., 1-2 pm.

6th Annual Dancing with Celebrities American Cancer Society‘s Relay for Life Fundraiser. Capital City Club, Mar. 2, 5:30 pm. $75/person. For info. 334-215-2217, sherrynath1@gmail.com, www.dancingwithcelebrities.org.

10th Annual Bunko event. American Business Women’s Association, River Region Chapter, Arrowhead CC. Mar. 5, 6 pm. Tickets, $30, $40 after Feb. 26. For info.

334-221-6787. Cash prizes, door prizes, raffle.

Capital City Camera Club.

2nd Mon., 7 pm, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery. All skill levels.

2nd Fine Arts Festival, First United Methodist Church, Montgomery. Feb. 3-10. Art show, concert, trip to MMFA exhibit. For info. e-mail sgs684@gmail.com.

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February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

What is The Elder Justice Act? Attend February’s AARP meeting and find out.You do not have to be an AARP member to attend and benefit from this important meeting.

February 25, 9:30 a.m.

Crump Center 1751 Cong. Dickinson Dr. Montgomery

Each day, seniors are subjected to physical, mental or financial abuse, often at the hands of a relative or acquaintance. Learn what’s being done to protect seniors from all forms of abuse.

Robyn James of the Alabama Dept. of Senior Services, and Susan Segrest of the Central Alabama Aging Consortium, explain the Elder Justice Act and what it means to you and those you love.

GAMES & PUZZLES Crossword Clues Across 1 Yawn-inspiring 6 “Arabian Nights” birds 10 Big name in razors 14 Alpaca kin 15 Pop singer Brickell 16 Washerful 17 Word on a French postcard 18 Laura of “Jurassic Park” 19 Forever, so to speak 20 Shareholder’s bonus 23 Dir. from Memphis to Nashville 24 Something to grind 25 Throw easily 26 Phone bk. info 29 Kitchen island material 32 Spinning sound 35 “It’s a Wonderful Life” studio 36 Brief fisticuffs 37 It has lots of slots 38 Invite to one’s penthouse 41 Some necklines 42 Macaroni shape 44 “I could win on my next turn!”

45 Bk. before Job

46 Wrap for leftovers 50 __-Tiki 51 Wimple wearer 52 Window units, briefly 53 Mud bath venue 56 Laundry convenience 60 Empty room sound 62 Roll of fabric 63 Garlicky sauce 64 In __ of: replacing 65 Everyone, to Ernst 66 Stops bleeding 67 Sail support 68 Meg of “Courage Under Fire” 69 Have an inkling Down 1 Little shaver 2 Troublemaking chipmunk 3 Too trusting 4 Madame’s “mine” 5 Two-seated carriage 6 Jeff Foxworthy jokes about them 7 Pigged out (on) 8 Word with sewing or traffic 9 Lisbon mister 10 Actor Baldwin

11 Created a study aid in class 12 Was on the ballot 13 Program breaks 21 One in a crowd scene 22 Goes back to sea?

27 Large wedding band 28 Smidge 29 Witch craft?

30 Balderdash 31 Flat 32 Inflict, as havoc 33 Nametag greeting 34 How grapes grow 39 Remove the chain from, say 40 Doggie 43 Skid row regular 47 Crunchy snack 48 Not at all sacred 49 “Compromising Positions” author Susan 53 Gazpacho eater’s need 54 Furrier’s stock 55 Hop out of bed 57 Boorish sort 58 Jazzy Fitzgerald 59 __ High City: Denver 60 Shade source 61 “The Bourne Identity” org. (c)2013 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

Answers for this month’s games can be found on page 27. www.primemontgomery.com | February 2013

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prime diversions

Recent dvd releases Argo,The Master and Here Comes the Boom

Argo (R) Here’s a film that not only works beautifully as an intense action thriller, but tells a true story that was kept under wraps for too long. When the Iranians ousted the Shah in 1979, they stormed the US Embassy in protest over our longstanding support for his brutal, repressive regime, taking about 60 hostages. Their long ordeal became a national crisis. All we knew about was President Jimmy Carter’s humiliating failed rescue attempt, and the shame of our inability to bring them home.

But another operation flew under the radar. Six of our people had fled to the Canadian Ambassador’s home, and were hiding there, facing certain execution if discovered. Our CIA came up with a bizarre extraction plan that worked, but was publicly credited to the Canadians for various security reasons.

I’m not sure how accurate this portrayal may be on the details, but it makes for a Helluva movie on purely cinematic criteria, with it’s historical grounding as a bonus.

Ben Affleck stars as the extraction specialist who comes up with the cover story of filming a big-budget sci-fi movie using some Iranian locations. Political crises come and go, but business is business, and movies have their fans in every culture. Affleck pretends to be the advance man for a Canadian production company, allowing him access to the hiding place, bearing credentials that will ideally let the trapped bureaucrats leave with him as members of his crew. The backstory buildup he needs comes from a couple of Hollywood players (John Goodman, Alan Arkin), evoking fond comparisons to the underrated political satire Wag the Dog, and providing moments of much-needed comic relief.

Affleck the actor is adequate, but Affleck the director is a stud. He delivers an admirably cohesive and engrossing film, while juggling scenes from many parts of the globe, involving a broad assortment of participants. He also fleshes out a diverse range of characters from all sides without getting bogged down in any particular element of his script. That includes resisting the temptation to overplay his own character - something others have failed to do when starring in their own productions (are you reading this Mr. Costner? Ms. Streisand?).

Even though you’ll likely feel as emotionally spent from the film as the characters you’ve just seen, stay for the credits. The saddest note is realizing how much flak Jimmy Carter has taken through the years for his high-profile failure, when that was far from the entire story of what he actually accomplished.

The Master (R) After serving in the Pacific during WW II, Joaquin Phoenix finds himself suffering from what would now be called PTSD. After release from a naval hospital, he drifts from job to job, 34 February 2013 | www.primemontgomery.com

drinking too much of the booze he makes from available materials, and periodically exploding in fits of rage. He stumbles onto a little cruise vessel that happens to Mark Glass be the base for a self-styled guru (Phillip Seymour Hoffman) who is building a movement on a type of past-life regression therapy, and some hazy cultural mythology about all it can offer the world. He’s charismatic in some respects, and perhaps as damaged as Phoenix in others.

The film features superb performances by the two main males, plus Amy Adams’ surprising dimensions as Hoffman’s wife. The production values in replicating the early 1950s are also exceptional. All of those elements will likely be grist for Awards’ Season. But the script promises far more substance than it delivers. Many questions linger about the nature of the bond between the Master and his unlikely protege/subject/ alter ego. We’re never quite certain of Hoffman’s existence as visionary vs. hustler, or his degree of self-awareness about what’s making his clock tick. The result may strike viewers as a letdown after two-plus hours of character development.

Such strong acting should deliver more solid outcomes... at least for films made on this side of the Atlantic. We like certainty in our domestic fare, and this one comes up short on that measure.

Here Comes the Boom (PG) Kevin James co-wrote and stars in every couch potato’s sentimental fantasy comedy. He’s a disenchanted high school science teacher who suddenly decides to save the music teacher’s (Henry Winkler) job by dusting off his college wrestling skills, buried beneath 20 years of sloth and body fat. The idea is to earn about $50K from Mixed Martial Arts cage fighting to cover the costs. He also hopes that will finally land him the romantic shot with the lovely school nurse (Salma - friggin’Hayek!!!) she’s so consistently (and understandably) declined.

The result is the cinematic equivalent of the wet, sloppy kisses one might get from an affectionate Saint Bernard. Nothing about this To Sir, With Gloves story is plausible. The cast and subplots are replete with awww-gee types that Garry Marshall would have spurned as too mawkish. Accepting James as another Rocky Balboa, even when played somewhat tonguein-cheek, is about a toss-up on the “suspension of disbelief” scale with buying into Hayek as his Adrian.

Despite the preceding cynicism, James is likable enough to make the product a guilty pleasure, if you’re in the right mood for such fare. Just be sure you’re wearing something on your IQ that won’t show stains from the big dog’s loving drool.

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

www.primemontgomery.com | February 2013

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love

When speaks softly, be sure you

HEAR it.

Schedule a F R E E hearing screening.

Call 334-281-8400 The ALL EARS team can help you and your Valentine with better hearing.

6912 Winton Blount Blvd.

Montgomery, AL 36117 334-281-8400 www.allearscenters.com