VOLUME 05 | ISSUE 08 | SEPTEMBER 2017
SPIN ME RIGHT ROUND, BABY
MOTHER OF DRAGON BOATS
FAIR FOOD FTW
2 TABLE OF CONTENTS
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WIFFLE GOLF TOURNAMENT AND GRILL OUT SEPTEMBER 13, 2-5 P.M. AT UNA'S OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER FREE GOLF AND BURGERS
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I THINK IT WILL ALWAYS BE A WORK IN PROGRESS BECAUSE SOMETHING CAN ALWAYS BE IMPROVED. BUILD A HOUSE IN THE SKY, P13
LETTER
CONTRIBUTORS LET’S HEAR IT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
FROM THE EDITOR
PREPPING TO BUY A HOME A FIRST-TIMER’S GUIDE TO A BIG DECISION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
FLORENCE’S OWN “GIRLBOSS” MILLY BAINE TALKS ABOUT HER NEW STORE SOUTHERN TRASH AND WHAT CUSTOMERS CAN EXPECT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
CAMARADERIE IS ALIVE IN THE SHOALS
BENJAMIN NEWBERN IS THE LOCAL LGBTQ COMMUNITY’S CHAMPION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
BUILD A HOUSE IN THE SKY PHOTO BY ALLISON CARTER
In this picture of me in a lifejacket and some weird dragon hoodie, I was drumming—no rhythm—at the front of a dragon boat moving, like a garden snail, down the Tennessee River. It was early, we were tired, and we were getting humiliated by children. But it was the most fun I’ve had at McFarland Park. Marc Anderson’s article about the Shoals Dragon Boat Festival has all the information you need. It didn’t take long on the dragon boat to realize the most important element: teamwork. My job as the drummer was to keep a steady beat so that the rowers could stay in unison. There has to be a motivational poster with the image out there somewhere. Well, I couldn’t keep a steady beat, and our unpracticed, unsynchronized team was falling short. We lacked camaraderie, an important theme in this month’s issue. This magazine couldn’t exist without the working relationships between its contributors, design team and Listerhill. But this issue, especially, couldn’t be what it is without camaraderie. Milly Baine and Megan Buettner are working together to save the environment while opening people’s minds to new fashion ideas. You can read all about them and their company Shoals Trash in Karah Wilson’s article. In Charlie Gordon’s article, he explains how one extraordinary local couple turned passion, skill and an old tree into their childhood dream:
EQUALITY SHOALS
a livable and luxurious treehouse, a dream home in the sky. Benjamin Newbern, founder of Equality Shoals and purveyor of camaraderie, has inspired hundreds of LGBTQ members and supporters to stand up against what is wrong. We know things need to change, but sometimes we’re afraid to stand up. Sometimes we’re afraid to be cast out. But Benjamin isn’t, and he knows that if something is going to be done, we have to do it together. Last month, we published an article about SHE Recovery, a new recovery center for women. This month, SHE Recovery is celebrating its launch with a party on Sept. 28 at 116 on E. Mobile St. in downtown Florence. Like Ben Newbern and Equality Shoals, Danielle Snoddy and Brooke Rose are doing things for people in the community that have unfortunately not been given the help and attention they’ve needed for years.
A LOCAL COUPLE MAKES CHILDHOOD DREAMS TRUE. . . . . . . . 10-13
TENNESSEE VALLEY ART ASSOCIATION TVAA HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
MAKE YOUR OWN FAIR FOOD IF YOU LOVE FUNNEL CAKES BUT HATE THE FAIR, THIS ARTICLE IS FOR YOU. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
TO SPIN OR NOT TO SPIN A DIVE INTO THE CONTROVERSY OF POPULAR FIDGET SPINNERS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
CALENDAR WHAT’S GOING ON HERE? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-21
MULETOWN MUSICFEST THIS THIRD ANNUAL FESTIVAL IS A SOUTHERN CHARM. . . . . . . . 22
SPOTLIGHT SET READERS IN ACTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-27
SHOALS FESTIVAL MAKING WAVES AN INTERVIEW WITH DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL CHAIR EMILY RHODES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
FREESTYLE BY WESLEY HOPKINS, EDITOR
SET is a publication by and for local young people dedicated to lifestyle, finance, technology and community. It is published by Listerhill Credit Union as
part of its ongoing mission to promote the credit union philosophy of cooperation and financial literacy. It is a platform for 15-20 somethings in the community and it is free.
ONE FINAL THOUGHT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
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4 CONTRIBUTORS
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SET CONTRIBUTORS JORDAN TOLBERT Huntsville, AL
KARAH WILSON Scottsboro, AL
CHARLES S. GORDON Russellville, AL
MARC ANDERSON Florence, AL
REBEKAH MILWEE Gilroy, CA
LUKE ARCHER
Tuscumbia, AL
ASHLEY GRAVES Athens, AL
ALLEN CHILDERS Rockledge, FL
ALLIE SOCKWELL
Lawrenceburg, TN
JACKSON TOWNSEND Pulaski, TN
ALEXANDRIA TERRELL Rogersville, AL
MONEY 5
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Equity means you own a portion of the home.
If you’re buying a house, learn to fix things.
PREPPING TO BUY A HOME You don’t want to come to the meeting with your lender unprepared, so these are the crucial documents you’ll need to bring.
PROOF OF INCOME AND EMPLOYMENT: ✘✘ PAYSTUBS THAT SHOW AT LEAST 30 DAYS OF INCOME ✘✘ EMPLOYER INFORMATION FROM THE PAST TWO YEARS ✘✘ QUARTERLY STATEMENT OF ALL ASSET ACCOUNTS
TAX DOCUMENTS: NEVER COUNT OUT RENOVATING.
✘✘ W-2S FROM THE PRIOR TWO YEARS
WHAT TO EXPECT?
A FIRST-TIMER’S GUIDE TO A BIG DECISION PREAPPROVED MORTGAGE LOAN You’ve decided it’s time to start the process of shopping for your first home, because apartment life is no longer for you. You’re crossing your fingers that you can afford your dream house— white picket fence and all. You can rest assured your dream house is
within budget by getting pre-approved for a mortgage home loan. By getting pre-approved, you will know what houses are in your price range and the house hunting can begin. Not to mention, pre-approval can save time in the bargaining process, as well as close escrow faster. An escrow account is a deposit or fun held in trust or as a security.
First things first, don’t freak out with all the financial terminology you’re bound to hear. We’ve all pretended to understand what a mortgage is and what all it entails. Pretend no more. A mortgage is loan from a financial lender that helps you finance your home. The first step usually consists of meeting with a loan agent to complete a mortgage application and gathering required documents such as a credit report or tax returns. Afterward, your loan agent will inform you of everything you need to know about purchasing your dream house. If you’re still feeling confused on what to bring when meeting with your lender, check out the list below!
WHAT TO BRING TO A MORTGAGE MEETING:
✘✘ TAX RETURNS FROM AT LEAST ONE PRIOR YEAR
STORY BY JORDAN TOLBERT
6 SIDE HUSTLE
SET isn’t just a magazine looking for people to share their 2 cents. It is entirely comprised of content provided by the 15 - 29 year olds of our community. No one else writes the articles, no one else takes the pictures and no one else decides what runs. That’s why we need you. Attend our next editorial meeting, drop us a line or send us an idea for your story. We want your photography, art and music. Get on SET’s team.
getsetmag.com/contribute
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SIDE HUSTLE 7
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On average, women-owned businesses grow 5x faster.
All around the world, more and more smart business people are investing in female entrepreneurs.
Women make up about 1/3 of entrepreneurs.
FLORENCE’S OWN “GIRLBOSS” MILLY BAINE TALKS ABOUT HER NEW STORE SOUTHERN TRASH AND WHAT CUSTOMERS CAN EXPECT
SOUTHERN TRASH MODEL MEGAN BUETTNER AND STORE OWNER MILLY BAINE. Milly Baine began selling her old clothes on Instagram as well as some old vintage pieces. With the number of hits on her account paired with the fact she had read “Girlboss” by Sophia Amoruso, Southern Trash began to grow. “I was pretty surprised that I gained so many followers and customers so quickly,” Milly said. “I’m ecstatic that so many people are into old clothes as I am.” Milly said she normally finds the clothes she sells at thrift stores or yard sales. “It takes a lot of digging sometimes, but it’s always worth it.” Before opening a physical store this year, Milly’s store was primarily online.
It wasn’t until earlier this year that she had a location for all of her vintage finds. “I had a pop-up shop around Christmas of 2016. It went really well, and I was on the cusp of graduating UNA. I decided I would much rather try making my dream a reality than settling into some mundane job,” Milly said. “It was like fate. I came across this building in Seven Points, and I knew I wanted to be in Seven Points. The building didn’t have a ‘for rent’ sign up, but there was an old man in the back. I knocked on the door and got his attention, and he told me he would be willing to rent the front room out for a reasonable price, and it was a done deal.”
Milly said the current goal for Southern Trash is to reach up to 12,000 followers on Instagram and get all of her new inventory onto her new website. Milly also has some exciting events coming up at Southern Trash. “I love having live music and events at the shop! Our next show is September 14 with Tigerwine and West Means Home,” Milly said. “I’ve got an event coming up too called Weekend of the Witches. We will have a tarot card reading, an astrologist, henna, and witchy jewelry from The Gypsy Fawn and Eva Huber at Allegory Arts.” For anyone who hasn’t been to Southern Trash, Milly says you can expect “original clothes and
accessories with a sort of rock and roll twist. Southern Trash is an experience. I want every person that comes to feel like a total badass by the time they leave.” Southern Trash is located at 1134 North Wood Ave. You can find it on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and www.southerntrash.co. The store is open Monday through Saturday from noon until 7 p.m
STORY BY KARAH WILSON
8 NONPROFIT
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45% of LGBTQ Alabamians identify as people of faith.
8% of LGBTQ Alabamians have military service.
EQUALITY SHOALS BENJAMIN NEWBERN IS THE LOCAL LGBTQ COMMUNITY’S CHAMPION Since he was a student at Auburn University, Benjamin Newbern has fought for the rights of the LGBTQ community, and he has important plans for local reform. He was born and raised in the Shoals, graduated from Bradshaw High School, and, after graduating from Auburn in 2000, worked in the press office of the governor of Alabama. He also assisted the governor in advance logistics. “If the governor was speaking at UNA, and then doing a dinner with a group of activists after that, I would come in the night before, know how everything is going to be, understand exits, everything that’s involved, the people who are going to be introducing him, whoever the other speakers are on the platform, potentially what journalists will be there. Basically, the lookout. He wants to know exactly what he’s going into.” After working with the governor, he worked for Equality Alabama, becoming secretary and eventually chair of the oldest and largest LGBTQ education and advocacy group in Alabama. Ben founded Shoals Pridefest in 2015. Throughout the year he worked for civil reform, mainly mar-riage equality, since the topic was being disputed heavily
BENJAMIN NEWBERN. at the time. He also worked with the Amer-ican Civil Liberties Union and the Interfaith Alliance, where he worked alongside clergy members to fight for campaign finance reform, gay rights, women’s rights to reproductive choice and other im-portant civil issues. Ben started Equality Shoals at the beginning of 2017 in an effort to do more “aggressive” advocacy work in light of a recent rise in anti-LGBTQ speech and action. In their first year, they achieved 501C3 tax-exemption status, held a pride march, a candlelight vigil in memory of those who died in the Orlando shooting, and a rally to protest the repeal of the Affordable Healthcare Act. Ben said that gay and lesbian people are not currently a protected class under the Civil Rights Act, and that he is working to motivate legislation like the Equality Act, a comprehensive federal LGBTQ non-discrimination law, on the local level. “One of the main goals of Equality Shoals is the passage of an all-inclusive local nondiscrimination
ordinance. Now, what that would mean would be: you cannot be fired from your job, you cannot be denied public housing or denied public accommodations simply because of your sexual orientation or gender identity.” Ben is planning a town hall meeting in October to discuss the local LGBTQ community, and he’s willing to not only fight for passage of a nondiscrimination ordinance in Florence but in any and all cities that are open to it. The Shoals is the start, but it seems like Ben won’t quit until he has changed the world. “We want to continue to provide education to the public and advocate for the LGBTQ com-munity.” Now that he’s back home in Northwest Alabama, he’s able to speak with conviction about his hopes to erase prejudice from the workplace, media and everyday life of the seemingly regressive South. Holding onto traditions for the sole purpose of keeping a tradition alive is an irrational concept; some living traditions are oppressive and inhumane. The Shoals has seen less hate-driven activity than many places in the South, and most people in the area are accepting of people of all races, gen-ders and sexualities, but members of the LGBTQ community are still harassed in the Shoals—in the workplace, local media, courthouses and peace rallies. In Alabama, you can still be fired from your job for your sexual orientation or gender identity. The same is true for the majority of states. Benjamin Newbern, Equality Shoals and progressive-minded people have opened their eyes to the civil injustice happening in businesses and government agen-cies. Now, it’s time to stand up. That is how we become truly free—truly awake.
STORY BY WESLEY HOPKINS
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Nick Walton
Miracle Osborne
Member since 2015
Member since 2013
Visit Our Stop by The Hill
to relax, recharge, or (of course) take care of your financial
needs. The Hill is a full service, student-run Listerhill Credit Union location in The Commons at UNA dedicated to helping students reach their full financial potential.
10 FEATURE
WWW.GETSETMAG.COM SEPTEMBER 2017 STORY BY CHARLES S. GORDON
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There are four different types of treehouses. In the children’s book “The Magic Treehouse,” Mary Pope Osborne depicts a family as they venture through far-off places in their imaginations. In the real world, a Killen, Alabama couple has created their own version of an enchanting treehouse through the wonders of imagination, teamwork and some blood, sweat, and tears. Just ten miles from the hustle and bustle of Florence, there’s a twohundred-acre plot turned into a living masterpiece. From the rolling hills and deep forests to the picturesque landscape, the property is a scene of natural wonder. The Matthews family—three generations and ten large dogs—inhabits the colossal, history-rich estate. The Union Army marched through the area and camped on the nearby land during the American Civil War. In fact, the twohundred-year-old log cabin the family lives in is a refurnished pumping station and general store relocated from Russellville, Alabama. A one-hundred-foot-tall and onehundred-year-old beech tree holds the family’s treehouse, and it’s a short hike from their cabin; this treehouse is every child’s dream come true. Twenty-five feet in the air, secured by lock and key to thwart the recent influx of breakins, is the hand built masterpiece. There’s a wrap around deck, a loft big enough for a queen sized mattress, a working cast iron stove and a den filled with family heirlooms and photographs. And the Matthews family will pump water to the treehouse. Robin Matthews is the brain behind the operation. He designed and built the entire structure with the much needed help from his wife Jennifer. Originally going to college for business, Robin said he would never have thought that he would have done something like this. He explained, “I always grew up outside and it was my first love, but I went to school for business to be able to run my company.” He’s the owner of Deadwood Furniture where he builds custom furniture from refurbished wood to sell at local festivals such as Florence’s First Fridays. He also designs home landscapes, such as swimming pools and lawns, for Backyard Solutions. The treehouse itself was born out of inspiration from the hit television show Treehouse Masters on Animal Planet. “I was watching the show one day and it just came to me. My father had built my two brothers and me a small
The world’s largest treehouse is in Crossville, TN.
ROBIN AND JENNIFER MATTHEWS PROUDLY DISPLAY THEIR TREEHOUSE. treehouse when we were younger to play in and I saw the tree and I wanted to build something for the family to enjoy. Kind of full circle,” Robin said. “Design-wise I was really inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright because he was really a trailblazer for modern architecture and his house is part of the history of Florence so it is great to be able to use local inspiration.” In the early days of construction,
Matthews knew the treehouse, just like his childhood home, should be made of refurbished wood, not only to help the environment but also to give the treehouse a more connected feel to the family. “Most of the wood was driftwood found in and around the Tennessee River that I cleaned up and cut with my personal sawmill. It adds up to be about three or four trees worth of wood,” he pointed out.
With his experience in carpentry, Matthews worked to build the treehouse to top-notch quality while also being as cost-efficient as possible. “We built it all ourselves and we had our own sawmill so it was mostly just money for the support beams and equipment we didn’t have and had to rent. All in all, it was only about $5000 from start to finish.” This is an astonishing feat as most treehouses on the show that
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Winston Churchill built an treehouse for his 5 children. gave Matthews his inspiration average anywhere from $80,000 to $200,000! And get this; they built the entire thing in only six months. Yes, only six months which in comparison to other treehouses of this capacity took as much as two years to complete. The treehouse sits in the split of a large beech tree seemingly crafted for such a project. “The tree was split at such an angle that it was dividing in half from the gravitational pull on the branches so with the wrap-around design of the house, the treehouse pulled the split limbs back together completely saving the tree,” Matthews explained. Matthews credits the treehouse to the love and support from his wife, Jennifer. “As much work as I put in she was there cheering me on and doing her fair share of the load,” he praised. “I was the one who handled
the logistics. I ordered the harnesses when we were hanging the beams, and I’m the one who kept the treehouse from being at the top of the tree. The safety monitor you could say,” Jennifer laughed. The couple saw the process through from start to finish. “I was there when you saw the tree. I watched as you designed it in your head. I was there when you nailed the first nail, I personally screwed in all of the deck screws, and I was there when it was finished, so it’s just as much my project as yours,” Jennifer added. In regards to the design, Robin explained, “There were no formal drawings or blueprints laid out. We sketched a simple picture of what we wanted it to look like but it really all just came together as we did it. Sometimes you just have to do something for all the pieces to really fit together and
Treehouse hotels are popular with tourists. work.” It is honestly breathtaking at how perfectly symmetrical the lines are crafted with no such dimensions or plans to follow. The house is set on a hexagonal platform with tilted hexagon walls shaping the home itself. “I wanted to angle the walls to allow for a cozier feel and open loft which would not be possible if the walls stood vertically. It would just feel like a box or a ‘typical’ treehouse and we are far from typical,” Robin explained as Jennifer chimed in. “I thought it was crazy dreaming up those tilted walls but he did and we did it.” The treehouse is more than just a house. It’s a home. The family celebrated the ceremonial launching of the treehouse’s life spending the night in the loft. “It got really cold and the cast iron stove just ended up smoking us out because we had not
THE MATTHEWS FAMILY'S CAST IRON STOVE
finished prepping it to work properly,” Jennifer regarded. “It is still a work in progress. I think it will always be a work in progress because something can always be improved.” The work never ends for the couple as they continue to make their dream come true with wood furniture being crafted to shape the room into a more livable state. The community has already grown to love the treehouse with it becoming a popular attraction for Instagram photos as people hike the land. When asked the plans for the finished treehouse Matthews replied, “We considered renting it out as like a tourist attraction, maybe a ‘woodsy’ bed and breakfast, but we as a family decided to just keep it as something special for us. Something for our kids to enjoy and grow to love just as much as we do.” That is what sets this family apart from others. Not only did they build a treehouse by hand, but the connection to their family is very evident in the pride the entire family takes in the project. Even all ten dogs ran and jumped in excitement over the treehouse as if they were eager to show off their prized possession. Matthews already has plans for the treehouse with the addition of a zipline from the deck of the house to a connecting tree and a possible revamp of the original walkup with less steep stairs creating an easier climb. He also has plans to build another complete house on the opposite side of the creek with a bridge connecting the two. When asked how he would be able to top the original he laughed, “I would like to make it two stories or even more kid friendly as this one is really an ‘adult’ treehouse. I would also like to see how high we could actually go with a house. We are twenty-five feet in the air right now, but we could be at fifty.” Who knows? Soon, the Matthews could be a modern day Swiss Family Robinson. The treehouse is a symbolic representation of the power of teamwork and camaraderie—husband and wife joining forces to add to their own version of the American Dream. The treehouse represents the Matthews family’s core values: unity and family.
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Kahri Member Since 2013 Abby Member Since 2013
Drew Member Since 2013
Rebecca Member Since 2013
14 ART
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TVAA renovated the Ritz Theatre in 1985.
Admission to the Museum of Art is free on Sundays!
TENNESSEE VALLEY ART ASSOCIATION TVAA HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE The Tennessee Valley Art Association is a local organization that serves to accommodate all types of creatives in our area. In recent years, TVAA has been especially dedicated to creating art education programs for the local youth. Throughout the year, TVAA hosts several programs for various artistic mediums, from theater to visual art, written word, and film. TVAA originated in the Tennessee Valley Museum of Art in downtown Tuscumbia. Nowadays, in addition to being based in the museum, the association also owns and operates programs out of the historic Ritz theater in downtown Sheffield, as well as several of the buildings surrounding it. Upon arriving at the Tennessee Valley Art Museum one rainy afternoon, I was lucky enough to be able to speak with executive director, Mary Seattle Cooney, right off the bat. According to Cooney, there are no slow seasons for TVAA. Whether showcasing a new exhibit in one of the museum’s galleries, offering vocal and acting lessons to area teens over at the Ritz, or brainstorming ways in which to engage local writers, there is always something new and different going on. It is clear from speaking to Cooney that the association truly acknowledges the interconnectedness of all subjects, especially when it comes to the arts. According to Cooney, before The Tennessee Valley Art Association purchased the picturesque Ritz Theater in downtown Sheffield, local thespians had been gathering in the TVAA Museum located in downtown Tuscumbia once a week for what they affectionately dubbed “Theater on the Floor in the Corner.” As the
WHOLE CLOTH: A MID-CARRIER RETROSPECTIVE OF CONTEMPORARY FABRIC ARTIST HERB REITH. theater program outgrew the gallery, board members began looking for a new location, where they could have the space these programs needed to expand. Theater on the Floor in the Corner wasn’t the only group that originated at the TVAA museum site. Cooney claims that what began as string instrument lessons for children and adults in 1978 eventually became The Shoals Symphony Orchestra in 1986, with which the University of North Alabama Orchestra ultimately worked.
It was during times such as these when Cooney and her associates at TVAA witnessed firsthand the desire of artists from our area to have more programs to educate and assist them artists in their various endeavors. Nowadays TVAA is placing a special emphasis on students when creating programs. In addition to the four major shows a year TVAA puts on, they also offer a school of performing arts for 9-12th grade students. The program was originally developed for students attending local schools that didn’t
have adequate theater programs at the time. Today, many of these schools have brought on their own theater arts programs. Therefore, the Ritz School of Performing Arts is now instead geared towards the carefully selected elite from each respective school. The program spans several counties. Lauderdale, Lawrence, Franklin and Colbert County school systems all have students involved. After auditioning and being selected for the program, individual vocal, acting and choreography instruction is offered
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Galleries are named after local figures in the art community.
Members of the Art Association get discounts.
A DRESS REHEARSAL OF FIDDLER ON THE ROOF. to these students by professional instructors. Summerstock is another youthdriven TVAA organized program. This annual production is a musical theater performance opportunity for people between the ages of 16 and 28. Summerstock was organized in 2009 and aims to prepare local students who plan to pursue theater seriously after high school. It is one of the largest productions TVAA organizes annually, with the largest budget. Summerstock even provides scholarships for students to study to produce a major play. In previous years, productions of Fiddler on the Roof, Guys and Dolls, and Les Miserables have been well received within the community. During the two-month preparation for the show, students are given individual vocal, acting and choreography instruction in addition to rehearsals with the rest of the cast. An acting coach works with the students on characterization to ensure that they understand the history of their roles and
are able to consider the mannerisms and motivations their characters might have had. Before the show, gallery talks are held in the beautifully refurbished building space adjacent to the Ritz. During these discussions, attendees are able to ask open questions about the show to the actors and director. TVAA’s involvement in the arts doesn’t end with theater. In fact, it is only the beginning of the programs they offer. Back over in Sheffield at the museum, there are regularly alternating exhibits of both local art and pieces from around the world, according to Cooney. “We display local art that is very unique, but also try to bring in art from outside the area in order to expose the community to what the rest of the world is doing, art-wise.” Each year the museum hosts a member show as well, in which TVAA member art is showcased in the museum’s galleries for six weeks, and open to the public. Becoming a member is only $10 for students, and
the benefits are seemingly endless. I actually impulsively joined that same day. It wasn’t difficult for me to join or for them to persuade me. In addition, the TVAA museum also organizes an outreach art program for local schools. For this program, two volunteer teachers go into elementary, middle and high schools and work on an art project with the students. The only obligation is that the school allows the museum to keep the final product, and to install it in the museum as an exhibit. The students then take a field trip to the museum to see their art under the lights and labeled as it would be in a high quality art show. While the students are at the museum to view their own work, they are also exposed to the other exhibits going on at that time. Seeing their work on display in such a setting undoubtedly inspires children, and perhaps even affects their perception of themselves as an artist for a lifetime. Creating need-based artistic opportunities is what TVAA has been
doing best for decades now. In addition to the aforementioned programs for theater and visual arts, TVAA is slated to be involved in upcoming film event, South Arts, as well as working on developing a symposium for young writers in the area. It is easy to see why they have been so successful when you hear the passion in Mary Cooney’s voice. “The arts do so much for youth. Composure, the ability to speak in front of groups. What would we do without our artists? When you are with likeminded people, and when the students realize that there are other people who think like they do, magic happens here.”
STORY BY REBEKAH MILWEE
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“BASKET”
18 FOOD
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Deep-fried butter is a state fair specialty in Texas.
Midwest Dairy Association names a new dairy princess every year.
MAKE YOUR OWN FAIR FOOD! IF YOU LOVE FUNNEL CAKES BUT HATE THE FAIR, THIS ARTICLE IS FOR YOU It’s that time of year again. Cooler temperatures are on the way, pumpkin spice everything is hitting store shelves, and the county fair is coming to a town near you. In Cullman, the fair has been delighting its citizens and others from surrounding areas with thrilling rides, exhibits and entertainment since 1954. Oh, and how could you forget the smorgasbord of one-of-a-kind and sinfully delicious deep-fried treats? Thanks to technology and a little help from Pinterest, these goodies can now be easily made and enjoyed at home any time of the year.
CARAMEL APPLES
FUNNEL CAKE
2. Line a baking sheet with wax paper.
Ingredients: Granny Smith apples Wooden popsicle sticks 1 bag of individually wrapped soft caramels Assorted toppings such as chopped nuts, sprinkles, or melted chocolate for drizzling Directions: 1. Wash and thoroughly dry the apples; press popsicle sticks firmly into the top of each apple.
3. Unwrap caramels and place in a medium sauce pan over mediumlow heat; stir occasionally until melted and is a smooth consistency. Reduce heat to low. 4. Dip each apple into the caramel mixture, shaking off any excess.
Ingredients: Oil for deep frying pan + 2 tsp. for batter Oreos 1 ½ cups pancake mix 1 egg 1 cup milk Directions: 1. Heat oil to 375 degrees F in a fryer or large bottomed skillet.
5. Roll the apples in your preferred toppings and place on the lined baking sheet.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk oil, eggs, and milk together. Stir in pancake mix until there are no more clumps.
6. Refrigerate apples for 15 minutes or until the caramel has firmed up and serve.
3. Dip Oreos in batter with a fork and place in hot oil. Fry until golden brown. 4. Place Oreos on a paper towel lined plate to drain then serve.
Ingredients:
WALKING TACO
2 large eggs 1 cup milk 1 cup water 1 tsp. vanilla extract 3 cups all-purpose flour ¼ cup granulated sugar 3 tsp. baking powder ¼ tsp. salt Oil for deep frying Powdered sugar for serving
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef 1 pack of chili seasoning mix 1 can (15 oz) ranch style beans 1 can (10 oz) Rotel 5 individual packages of Doritos or Corn Chips Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, taco sauce
Directions:
Directions:
1. Heat oil to 375 degrees F in a fryer or large bottomed skillet.
1. In a large skillet, brown beef over medium heat; drain.
2. In a large bowl, beat eggs. Add milk, water, and vanilla until well blended. Add the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt; whisk until smooth.
2. Stir in chili seasoning mix, Rotel, and beans. Bring to a boil. 3. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour batter into a large plastic freezer bag, cutting one corner to make a tip.
4. Open chip bags and add beef mixture and toppings as desired.
4. Pipe batter into the hot oil making a squiggly design and working from the center out. Fry funnel cake for two minutes on each side. 5. Remove from oil onto paper towels to drain. 6. Sprinkle powdered sugar over hot cakes and serve.
DEEP FRIED OREOS
THE DIVERSITY OF CARAMEL APPLES.
STORY BY ASHLEY GRAVES
HEALTH 19
SEPTEMBER 2017 WWW.GETSETMAG.COM
Similar devices have been around since 1993.
Schools in 11 states have banned fidget spinners.
TO SPIN OR NOT TO SPIN patterns, themes, and even offer LED and Bluetooth settings. You can sync your smartphone to the fidget spinner and play music through speakers, pair with flashing lights, etc. Although, warning: cases of Bluetooth spinners catching on fire while charging have been reported, one taking place in Gardendale, Alabama.
how a classroom of twenty kids could start buzzing. In Virginia, a petition was started on change.org to reverse a ban on the spinners; one student wrote that they were signing the petition because fidget spinners help with staying awake in class (shout out to 8:00 AM college classes) and ultimately do more good than harm.
A SPIN A DAY KEEPS THE MAKING LEMONADE OUT DOCTOR AWAY? Spinners have been a tool for OF LEMONS
IS THIS CRAZE GETTING ‘OUT OF HAND?
A DIVE INTO THE CONTROVERSY OF POPULAR FIDGET SPINNERS What’s small, colorful, spins and causes teachers to loathe? Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know the answer to this one: fidget spinners!
THE LOW-DOWN A fidget spinner is a handheld device that allows the user to “fidget” by spinning it between their finger and thumb. The spinner has a stable middle disc, much like a ceiling fan or a helicopter propeller. The claim is that these spinners can cause relaxation
and allow the user to do something with their hands, promoting increased focus, attention and stimulation. You’ll find fidget spinners in the hands of almost everyone: children, teens, even adults have caught on to the craze. Toy stores have taken the fidget spinner idea and run with it. Many stores struggle to keep spinners in stock because of the high demand. Spinners can be made of stainless steel, plastic, brass and other materials. Now spinners come in a variety of colors,
therapists long before the toy craze started. Why? For many people with ADHD, there’s a need for constant stimulation. Although doctors won’t prescribe fidget spinners, a psychologist could list spinners as a recommendation to help with concentration and the need to be constantly moving. While research has not yet been released about fidget spinners and ADHD, one similar study by UC Davis Professor Julie Schweitzer let children with ADHD fidget to see how it helped with performing a task. She found that more overall movement did help in performing a difficult cognitive task. Spinners can also help with calming a person down by allowing them to focus on something tangible rather than their anxieties. Adults use fidget spinners while sitting in traffic, in conference meetings, anywhere that could typically be seen as a stressful situation. Fidget spinners didn’t create fidgeting, though. If you’ve ever clicked a pen repeatedly, fiddled with your keys, or picked at your nails, you’ve taken part in fidgeting. Spinners allow movement without a huge distraction. But some would disagree.
SCHOOLS BANNING Many schools have banned fidget spinners. Besides distractions and lack of focus for some students, injuries have even been cited. One school in Australia claims a spinner injured a student’s eye. Students can use fidget spinners to perform tricks, such as balancing them on their noses, that can turn problematic quickly. Additionally, some spinners make noises when in use, so you can see
Fidget spinners don’t have to be all bad. By incorporating learning opportunities, such as using the spinner as a timer to complete multiplication facts before the spin ends, we can learn to utilize the idea of adding fun to learning. Furthermore, spinners can promote social activities and bonding with other users. With all the complaints about “kids these days” spending too much time on electronic devices, spinners do in fact allow users to do something else with their hands, compete with others, and just take a break from the stresses of daily life. The fidget spinner is just one example of the latest fidget toy variety. Fidget cubes, complete with buttons to push and knobs to turn and click, are also a hit. In fact, every one of the top 10 selling toys on Amazon was a form of a handheld toy people could spin and do tricks with. Experts believe this is not a fad and the idea of fidget toys is here to stay. In the short attention-span world we live in, being able to find a source of relief for stillness is a priority for many. Whether you love them or hate them, it seems that spinners haven’t yet lessened up on their widespread fame. There’s a solid following for these toys; just search through YouTube videos to find millions of views on clips showcasing the tricks of spinners. Happy spinning!
STORY BY ALLIE SOCKWELL
20 CALENDAR
EVENTS
WWW.GETSETMAG.COM SEPTEMBER 2017
SEPTEMBER 1 - 31 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
IF YOU HAVE ANY EVENTS YOU WOULD LIKE LISTED, EMAIL CALENDAR@GETSETMAG.COM
CALENDAR 21
SEPTEMBER 2017 WWW.GETSETMAG.COM
SEPTEMBER 5
OPEN MIC NIGHT @ SINGIN’ RIVER BREWING COMPANY IN FLORENCE, AL. 7:00 PM WEEKLY SMART MEETING @ THE SHOALS DIVERSITY CENTER IN FLORENCE, AL. 7:00 PM
SEPTEMBER 6
WIFFLE GOLF/FRISBEE GOLF TOURNAMENT @ UNA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER IN FLORENCE, AL. 2:00-5:00PM GAME OF THRONES TRIVIA NIGHT @ SINGIN’ RIVER BREWING COMPANY IN FLORENCE, AL. 6:30 PM
SEPTEMBER 7
SEED SAVING SEMINAR @ THE FLORENCELAUDERDALE PUBLIC LIBRARY IN FLORENCE, AL. 11:30 AM
SEPTEMBER 8
KATIE BUXTON W/ HAYDEN SCOTT @ 116 E MOBILE ST IN FLORENCE, AL. 7:00 PM MARTY STUART @ SINGIN’ RIVER LIVE IN FLORENCE, AL. 8:00 PM RICH MAHAN BAND @ CHAMPY’S SHOALS IN MUSCLE SHOALS, AL. 8:00 PM
SEPTEMBER 9
BLACKTOP MOJO @ FLOBAMA IN FLORENCE, AL. 7:00 PM
SEPTEMBER 10
BEGINNER’S YOGA SERIES @ SHOALS YOGA IN FLORENCE, AL. 3:00 PM POP UP GAY BAR @ 116 E MOBILE ST IN FLORENCE, AL. 8:00 PM
SEPTEMBER 11
LGBTQ+ SUPPORT GROUP MEETING @ THE SHOALS DIVERSITY CENTER IN FLORENCE, AL. 6:00 PM
SEPTEMBER 13
BIG GAY HAPPY HOUR @ WILDWOOD TAVERN IN FLORENCE, AL. 7:00 PM
SEPTEMBER 14
TIGERWINE @ SOUTHERN TRASH IN FORENCE, AL. 7:00 PM
SEPTEMBER 15
FUTURE THIEVES W/ CARVER COMMODORE @ 116 E MOBILE ST IN FLORENCE, AL. 7:00 BIG SONIA (FILM) @ THE RITZ THEATRE IN SHEFFIELD, AL. 7:00 PM SAIL ON @ THE SHOALS COMMUNITY THEATRE IN FLORENCE, AL. 7:30 PM
SEPTEMBER 16
RUN FOR THEIR LIVES 5K COLOR/FUN RUN @ MCFARLAND PARK IN FLORENCE, AL. 8:00 AM DACHSHUND DASH @ SINGIN’ RIVER BREWING COMPANY IN FLORENCE, AL. 1:00 PM THRIVE MURDER MYSTERY LUNCH @ THE MANE ROOM IN FLORENCE, AL. 1:30 PM WING-A-THON @ SINGIN’ RIVER BREWING COMPANY IN FLORENCE, AL. 5:00 PM THRIVE MURDER MYSTERY DINNER @ THE MANE ROOM IN FLORENCE, AL. 6:30 PM
SEPTEMBER 16 - 17
MONTE SANO ART FESTIVAL @ MONTE SANO STATE PARK IN HUNTSVILLE, AL. 9:00 AM
SEPTEMBER 21
THE CACTUS BLOSSOMS @ 116 E MOBILE ST IN FLORENCE, AL. 7:00 PM
IF YOU HAVE ANY EVENTS YOU WOULD LIKE LISTED, EMAIL CALENDAR@GETSETMAG.COM
SEPTEMBER 22
LILLY HIATT W/ DOC DAILEY @ 116 E MOBILE ST IN FLORENCE, AL. 7:00 PM
SEPTEMBER 26
WEEKLY SMART MEETING @ THE SHOALS DIVERSITY CENTER IN FLORENCE, AL. 7:00 PM UNA CHOIRS: QUINTESSENTIALLY BAROQUE @ GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH IN FLORENCE, AL. 7:30 PM
SEPTEMBER 28
TENNESSEE BREW WORKS @ WILDWOOD TAVERN IN FLORENCE, AL. 7:00 PM SHE RECOVERY LAUNCH PARTY @ 116 E MOBILE ST IN FLORENCE, AL. 9:00 PM
22 MUSIC
WWW.GETSETMAG.COM SEPTEMBER 2017
The first Muletown Musicfest was in 2015.
Proceeds from Muletown Musicfest support United Way.
MULETOWN MUSICFEST THIS THIRD ANNUAL FESTIVAL IS A SOUTHERN CHARM The 3rd annual Muletown Musicfest is returning to Historic Downtown Columbia, Tennessee this Fall, and is shaping up to be the best fest yet! It kicks off Friday, September 29th at the appropriately titled Friday Night KickOff Party, and the entertainment will continue through Saturday, September 30th with street performers, local eats and concerts in almost every venue. Muletown Musicfest is presented by Listerhill Credit Union and the Maury County Visitors Bureau. Every year, the fest highlights local businesses and restaurants with performances and events by some pretty talented people. This year’s lineup includes Tennessee native and American Idol finalist Sarina-Joi Crowe, and AMC’s Hell on Wheels actor, Anson Mount. Some big names scheduled to perform some feel good music include Folk bands Daphne & the Mystery Machines, Anthony Adams & the Nite Owls, and People on the Porch, and Blues musician Scott Holt. So you want to know how to get in? This year’s festival will be comprised of free and ticketed events. All proceeds will benefit the United Way of Maury County, a nonprofit organization that helps the community through youth and family programs, crisis centers and senior citizen advocacy. Not only is the fest an awesome way to kick-off
AN EMPTY STAGE IS A BLANK CANVAS. the Fall, but it also benefits an entire county! Tickets are available online at two price levels. The $50 All Access/1Day Pass will buy you a spot at the fest all day Saturday; this will not only get you into all the free fun, but it will give you access to the staggering amount of incredible ticket-only events. For only $30 more bucks, you can get the
weekend started right and join the VIP only Friday Night Kick-Off Party at Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant. Ready to buy? Go to muletownmusicfest.com to purchase tickets and, while you’re there, check out the full performance lineup and don’t forget to stock up on fest merch! Muletown Musicfest is still accepting
applications for artists and volunteers. If you want to get in with the bands, head back to that website I told you about and apply!
STORY BY ALEXANDRIA TERRELL
SEPTEMBER 2017 WWW.GETSETMAG.COM
MUSIC 23
24 SPOTLIGHT
SAY CHEESE!
WWW.GETSETMAG.COM SEPTEMBER 2017
SET READERS IN ACTION
PHOTOS BY LUKE ARCHER ALLEN CHILDERS AND JACKSON TOWNSEND
LIONS LEND A HAND HABITAT FOR HUMANITY, AUGUST 22, PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH ALABAMA
SAVING THE WORLD CAN BE FUN
ANNA YAMAMOTO, KAZUKI NAKAJIMA AND YURIKO NANAKO
WHEN YA GOTTA GO, YA GOTTA GO
BREAKIN’ DOWN BOXES!
SEPTEMBER 2017 WWW.GETSETMAG.COM
STREET ART IN FLORENCE PHOTOS BY ALLEN CHILDERS
SPOTLIGHT 25
26 SPOTLIGHT
WWW.GETSETMAG.COM SEPTEMBER 2017
FIRST FRIDAYS DOWNTOWN FLORENCE, AL, AUGUST 4, PHOTOS BY LUKE ARCHER
ART BY LINDA SMITH
ART BY LINDA SMITH
ART BY BETH PHILLIPS
BRANDON AND BRITTNEY WOODS
NATHAN PAYNE
ART BY MAURI CAMP
BRIAN ROGERS, MONICA AND WADE HADDCOCK
SPOTLIGHT 27
SEPTEMBER 2017 WWW.GETSETMAG.COM
UNA’S THE BIG DEAL EVENT, AUGUST 24, PHOTOS BY JACKSON TOWNSEND
UNA STUDENTS WAITING FOR THE DRAWING
JOY, TREVOR AND VICTORIA DIGGIN’ FOR THE KEYS
SIGNING UP STUDENTS FOR THE CAR GIVEAWAY.
LOOK AT THAT CROWD!
WHICH BAG HAS THE KEYS?
JOY AND FRIENDS IN HER NEW WHIP
STRUTTIN’
28 SPECIAL FEATURE
WWW.GETSETMAG.COM SEPTEMBER 2017
The International Dragon Boat Federation dictates the rules.
People have been dragon boat racing for over 2,000 years.
SHOALS FUNDRAISER MAKING WAVES AN INTERVIEW WITH DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL CHAIR EMILY RHODES For the past four years, Kilby Laboratory School has been responsible for one of Florence’s new and exciting fundraisers. On September 30, the dragon boats return to McFarland Park, and the city’s fiercest competitors will take to the Tennessee River. If you’re not familiar with The Shoals Dragon Boat Festival, then you’re in luck. I had the opportunity to talk with this year’s festival Chairperson, Ms. Emily Rhodes, and get more information. MA: How does it feel knowing that this is the fifth year of this festival? ER: It feels a bit surreal to be preparing for the fifth year of the Shoals Dragon Boat Festival. This was such a big undertaking our first year and there were many times we felt we were way in over our heads. But each year we keep growing and reaching people who have never been a part of it before. As long as the excitement continues, I hope the festival will as well. MA: Why did Kilby start this fundraiser? ER: It began after a restructuring of financing between the University of North Alabama and Kilby. Like any school, we like to have income to do things that go above and beyond typical funding. This fundraiser allows us to engage the community with a unique event, while also bolstering our funds, which we then use to support our children’s education. Additionally, Kilby is one of the few laboratory schools in the country and we wanted to remind the community they should be proud that it is a part of the Shoals. MA: Do you know why UNA
Administrators or anyone would question Kilby’s value to the community? ER: I do know that current support for Kilby is extraordinary! UNA is very supportive of Kilby, and the collaboration between the two schools is a benefit to both sets of students. It also doesn’t hurt that most of the students that attend Kilby have parents that work for UNA. This includes current President Ken Kitts, who has two children who attend. We feel confident that the value of this school and the amazing partnership we share with the University will continue for years to come. MA: Out of all the fundraiser possibilities, what attracted the PTO to this one? ER: Dragon boating is the fastest growing water sport in the world. You will find races in just about every major city. Many cities in Alabama have started their own festivals, and it really offers such a fun, community oriented experience. It is a great way to team build. I think companies and organizations are always looking for new and exciting ways to bring their employees or members together for something that they can look forward to. This isn’t just a one-day experience. Most teams recruit and prepare for weeks prior, and the excitement remains for weeks after. I have had several companies tell me that they used to organize expensive staff retreats, but they get more camaraderie from the dragon boat festival. Being together in a dragon boat offers a fun, team building experience in a different way. Plus, we have the perfect location
DRUMMERS/CALLERS ARE KNOWN TO BE A LITTLE EXTREME. at McFarland Park. MA: What groups of people would you encourage to register as a team? ER: Businesses are a natural fit. We have several local banks that participate. We have groups from hospitals, dentist offices, churches, gyms, non-profit organizations, sororities, fraternities, construction companies, sports teams, and restaurants. UNA is a huge supporter and they have many groups that enter. We have several teams that are just groups of friends that formed a team. All you need is 21 people: 20 paddlers
and 1 drummer. Everyone needs to be over the age of 15 unless special permission is granted and at least 8 of the 20 paddlers must be female. MA: So, what is the actual race day like? ER: Race day begins with a reading of the history of dragon boat racing and the symbolic “waking of the dragon.” Then we begin the races. Each team will race twice in heats of three boats each. There is a starting line and a finish line with a clock and a camera. The two race times are averaged, and the top 12 teams will race a third time.
SPECIAL FEATURE 29
SEPTEMBER 2017 WWW.GETSETMAG.COM
Dragon boat racing became an international event in 1976.
Some dragon boats have as many as 50 paddlers.
CAMARADERIE: 1 DRUMMER, 1 STEERPERSON, AND 20 ROWERS. All scores are cleared for the third round so by then anyone could win. Each team has a practice session the week prior to race day to learn all the commands and the safety procedures. All equipment is provided for the team and we provide a professional steerer for each boat. MA: What’s the atmosphere like on race day there at McFarland Park? ER: Each team sets up a tailgate area facing the river. We have food vendors on site, but most teams set up large potluck spreads, many bring grills, and we have had a few teams bring in professional chefs to cater for their teams. We have events for children, and it is free to the public to come watch. People bring in folding chairs and sit on the river bank. Kids build sandcastles and splash on the river’s edge. It’s very family friendly. We normally have about 4000 people in attendance with approximately 1/4 of those being actual participants. MA: It’s basically like showing up for game day? ER: Oh yeah!
MA: How is the fundraiser money raised?
and purchase items for the school as needed.
ER: This is a very expensive event to organize. We rent six traditional HongKong style dragon boats. They are 46 feet long. We also rent life vests and paddles, and we have professional steerers on the back of each boat. The company we hire is Dynamic Dragon Boat Racing, and they are based out of Knoxville, Tennessee. The team fee covers our expenses. Our profits come mainly from sponsors and t-shirt sales.
MA: How much money was raised last year?
ER: Last year’s first place team was “Seabiscuit”. They are a team from ECM. They have participated every year. They are a fun team and they have some serious dragon boating skills.
MA: Who are the sponsors for this year’s race?
ER: We love volunteers! If someone is interested in volunteering, they can contact us at shoalsdragonboatfestival@ yahoo.com or call the Kilby office at 256-765-4303.
MA: What does the winning team receive as prizes?
ER: Our sponsors this year are SIMCO Construction, Residence Inn, Medical Associates of the Shoals, RealtySouth, SEC Roofing and Construction, Q107, Kix96, Methvin Equipment, and 306 BBQ.
ER: They receive a trophy and each winning participant receives a medal.
MA: Is there anything else that you think the readers should know about this event?
MA: How is the money used? ER: The last few years the profits have gone to update technology for our students. This year we hope to purchase a 3D printer for our Leo Lab. We also support field trips, bring in special guest speakers for the students,
ER: Last year we raised close to $15,000. MA: What team won last year?
MA: Now, I have to ask, have you ever paddled in one of the boats? ER: Yes! Due to the organizing, I can’t participate on race day, but I have paddled on a couple of practice sessions. It’s not easy, but it’s very fun. I was definitely sore for a couple of days afterwards. I paddled on a team last year. We did not do so great but, but we did have a lot of fun. MA: When is the deadline to register?
ER: The last day to register is Friday, September 15th. However, we schedule practices in the order registered, so it’s better to register early. MA: If someone wants to help but doesn’t want to be on a team, can they volunteer? Who would they need to contact?
ER: The event begins at 9:00 am, and we normally end around 2 p.m. For more information, you can go to www.shoalsdragonboatfestival.com.
STORY BY MARC ANDERSON
30 FREESTYLE
ONE FINAL THOUGHT
PHOTO BY CHRIS ANDERSON
FREESTYLE
WWW.GETSETMAG.COM SEPTEMBER 2017
JOY MACHEN WINNING AT THE BIG DEAL!
SEPTEMBER 2017 WWW.GETSETMAG.COM
FREESTYLE 31
presents
With Many Artists Appearing Courtesy of...
Benefiting
Featuring...
Jim Lauderdale
Elle Macho
Mary Gauthier
...and many, many more!
And Special Guests...
September 29 30, 2017 Downtown Columbia, Tennessee C
For Tickets or More Info, Visit:
www.muletownmusicfest.com
@MuletownFest