December 20, 2013 - January 2, 2014
AthensNowal.com E-MAIL: info@athensnowal.com ADVERTISING: Ali: 256-468-9425 Deborah: 256-309-9399
See Our Listings Inside this edition... Pages 25 - 32
All Things Soldier The Holley Provision... Matthew Holley was one week shy of turning 17 when 9/11 hit, and it changed his life. He came from a line of military service men and women for four generations on each side, and realizing that a profound threat to our freedom had... Page 4
Uncommon Sense
Roger’s Portraits: Thirty Years Serving Athens On The Courthouse Square By Ali Elizabeth Turner Roger Bedingfield, who with his wife Vicki, “hung out a shingle” on the Square in 1984, and is coming up on his 30th year celebration near the Courthouse. However, there is much more to the story than just “hometown boy makes good.” Roger was born and raised Continued on pages 15
The Lost Art of Apologizing... Despite the growing popularity of internet shopping, this month tends to be one of traffic, travelers, and shoppers on a frantic mission... Page 7
Vietnam Veterans Of America: Serving Troops And Townfolk
A View From The Bridge New Year’s Resolutions for Entrepreneurs... Business owners ask yourselves what worked and what didn’t for 2013. As you start to prepare for business success in 2014, taking a critical look at... Page 21
December 20 - January 2, 2014
Vickie and Roger Bedingfield of Roger’s Portraits
By Ali Elizabeth Turner
VVA Treasurer MSG (Ret) Bill Schuler, (l) and President, Major (Ret) Al Nuss
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In 1978, due to the work of veterans who had served in Vietnam, Congress approved the formation of what is now known as the Vietnam Veterans of America. Since that time, the organization, which is dedicated to meeting the specific needs of Vietnam vets and the communities in which they Continued on page 17
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December 20, 2013 - January 2, 2014
Publisher’s Point
“The Hutch” Has Gone Home
Publisher / Editor Ali Turner
Sales / Editing Deborah Huff
Graphic Design
Jonathan Hamilton
Delivery
Hunter Williams
Contributing Writers Shelley Underhill Lynne Hart Wanda Campbell Teresa Todd Janet Hunt Deb Kitchenmaster Will Anderson Rachel Clark Jackie Warner Melissa Kirby Jim Doyle
It was Wednesday, December 18, 2013, when I began to pen this “Point,” and former NFL linebacker and Pastor Ken Hutcherson had breathed his last a few hours previously. As is always the case when a believer slips away, I was sad and I was glad. Sad because we had lost a warrior, glad that his brave, 13 year battle with prostate cancer was finally over and he was, indeed, “free at last.” I had a soft place in my heart for “Hutch” because he had been successful on several
racism, but he was a man full of love and humor. Ken Hutcherson was born in 1952 in Anniston. His mom was not married, and they were dirt poor. He is very transparent about the way he grew to hate white people, and in 2012, before the Washington State House Judiciary Committee hearing on same-sex marriage he said the following: “I was born and raised in Alabama where blacks and whites didn’t get along very well, and I tried being one of the
He even hated Dr. Martin Luther King because he was too nonviolent. Anniston was the place where the first freedom bus was burned when he was nine years old, and his hatred for everyone, really, including himself, only deepened. But God was at work, and was going to use specific white folks
Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . . 4 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 6 Uncommon Sense . . . . . . . . 7 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 10 Clean and Green . . . . . . . . 12 Cooking with Shelley . . . . . . 13 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . . . . 14 Cover Stories . . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 18 World According To Will . . . 19 Horse Whispering . . . . . . . 20 View From The Bridge . . . 21
fronts. He played for the Seahawks in the expansion years when I still lived in Seattle, and when a knee injury ended his career, he went on to become the Senior Pastor of Antioch Bible Church in Kirkland, WA. He was bolder than bold in regards to his unwavering stands on the volitional aspect of homosexuality as well as overcoming
Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Security Savvy . . . . . . . . . 23
December 20 - January 2, 2014
main reasons they didn’t. I was extremely discriminatory towards whites,” he said. “The only reason I played football was so I could hurt white people legally,” he added. Part of his racist rage was fueled by his uncle, who said, “there’s no good white person except a dead one,” a quality of saying usually attributed to whites only.
to begin the healing process. In that we had something in common. When I was a little girl, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans were “all that and a bag of chips,” and when I had only been able to read for a short while, I read a book called Angel Unaware, the story of their daughter, Robin, who had Downs Syndrome and had died. I was deeply affect-
ed by that book and its gospel message, but did not give my heart to the Lord until December of 1970.
By contrast, when Ken was five, he saw Roy and Dale speak on TV not long after Robin died. In 1969, when he was 16, he was sitting in a high school assembly, and told God the following: “God, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans said I’ve gotta face you one day, and this is going to be the day. If you’re real, here I am. I’m yours. And you’ve got a chance to do whatever you want with me.” Part of that included his being one of the founders of Antioch, an integrated church in the mostly white Seattle suburb of Kirkland. Their church motto was “Black and white in a grey world.”
Ken’s faith only deepened as the cancer grew, and he “flew home” in peace. In this season of gift giving, I think it should be remembered that Ken took God’s gift of salvation, and God took Ken’s gift of himself and used him powerfully. Today, the “wrapping” was removed and the “box” of his life was opened in heaven. I will be glad to join him one day and see just what was in it. Maybe he’ll even introduce me to Robin.
Ali Elizabeth Turner Athens Now Information & Inspiration 256-468-9425 ali@athensnowal.com Website: www.athensnowal.com
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All Things Soldier
The Holley Provision by Ali Elizabeth Turner
Matthew Holley was one week shy of turning 17 when 9/11 hit, and it changed his life. He came from a line of military service men and women for four generations on each side, and realizing that a profound threat to our freedom had now reached our shores, he chose to enlist. He became a medic with the 101st Airborne out of Ft. Campbell, KY and was serving in Taji, which was a little over 20 miles away from where I was at the time. In November of 2005, Matthew was killed by an IED, (Improvised Explosive Device) and as nightmarish as that was for his parents, what would have happened next would have only made it worse.
When Specialist Holley’s body was sent home, there was no plan to have the standard honor guard
greet his casket and unload it from the transport. Instead, the plan was to unload it from the belly of a commercial airplane by using a fork lift, and move it around as though it were a shipment of building materials. His parents, both of whom were ex-mil and who knew who to call, intervened before the flight arrived, and an honor guard was there waiting when he did.
law known as the Holley Provision, which would insure that unless a family requested it, caskets returning from any theatre of combat would not be flown commercially
and stowed amongst the baggage, and an honor guard would be there to meet each flight.
and only child gave the ultimate sacrifice had to have been extraordinarily difficult.
An airline official said the following: “You just don’t do that,” he said.
John and Stacey have written a wonderful book that starts with the end of
(Referring to treating caskets like baggage.) “And doing that with a family watching it, they don’t want to see their son’s casket being unloaded with a forklift or a belt loader, and this is what Congress saw.”
Matthew’s life, goes back to the beginning of their only child’s brief sojourn on this earth, chronicles their trip to Iraq and their encounter with a guide who had spent seven months hanging in a dislocate while being tortured by Saddam’s goons. The name of it is Medals, Flags and Memories. It is also a story of faith in the Savior that has only grown stronger. I believe it would make a wonderful gift in this time that we remember the birth of a Savior who gave everything that we might be free.
They were fully aware that other parents who did not have the same experience and resources would have faced the same thing, so even in the midst of their grief, they sprang into action. John Holley contacted his Congressman, Duncan Hunter of California, who then turned to the Secretary of Defense at the time, Donald Rumsfeld. Congress ultimately passed a
President George Bush signed the bill into law, and the Holleys began their long journey toward healing. Part of that healing process was to go with Move America Forward at Christmastime to visit the troops. Talk about going into the eye of the storm! To go back to the same area where their son
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December 20, 2013 - January 2, 2014
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Calendar of Events The Journey of Mary and Joseph Dec 22nd
Limestone County This is a no cost event to share information about sorority recruitment. Contact Teresa Brown tlbrown@pclnet.net
The Journey of Mary and Joseph at 3:00 PM on the Athens Square. The travel of Mary and Joseph by donkey to Bethlehem for the birth of baby Jesus. Come hear Christmas Angels sing, see the Wise men and the Shepherds, as Mary and Joseph travel by donkey from First Presbyterian Church to First Christian Church to the living nativity. Enjoy Wassail and experience the reason for the celebration.
8:30 p.m. Celebrate in high style at Canebrake Club this New Year’s Eve as we recreate Truman Capote’s Black and White Ball. This is a members only event, please contact Canebrake about available memberships. Dress code: Black and white attire and masks (tuxedos not required). Live music, hors d’oeuvres, champagne toast, and midnight breakfast. Members: $50 per couple | $30 per person. Member Invited Guests: $70 per couple | $40 per person. RSVP required by December 23: rsvp@canebrakeclub.com. For more information, please call: (256) 232-2412, ext. 7
Rockin’ New Years Eve Variety Show and Dance Party Dec 31st
Athens Home and Garden Show presented by the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce at the Limestone County Event Center on Pryor Street in Athens, AL. If you are looking for a unique item for your home or garden or maybe garden tips this event is for you. Activities for the kids to make and take too. For more information: 256-232-2600
Polk Sallet Follies Mar 6th - 8th
This annual dinner show is a wonderful night of entertainment and delicious food. Ticket price and sale date to be announced. For more information 256-233-6412
Ardmore Shamrock Shuffle Race Mar 15th
Yesterday’s Event Center is now accepting reservations for our New Year’s Eve event. This event will be different from any they’ve ever hosted! The fun begins the evening with a variety show concert featuring several individual performers including Conway Twitty tribute artist Brad Caswell, female vocalist Lacey Snider, and national singer/impressionist Kevin Adams. The finale of the concert segment features the region’s top showband, “The Flashbacks”. At the end of the concert segment Yesterday’s will have a complete buffet breakfast available from 10PM – 11PM. At 11PM, seating will be removed from the dance floor, “The Flashbacks” will again take the stage for the year’s best rockin dance party to bring in the New Year. There will be party hats and favors, a balloon drop and a non-alcoholic champagne toast at Midnight. Show tickets are $20. Buffet breakfast $9.95 (10PM11PM). Please specify if you’ll be having the buffet breakfast with us, and if you’ll be staying for the dance party. Info@YesterdaysEvent. com
Happy New Year - 2014
Registration at Active.com Ardmore Shamrock Shuffle is a chip-timed 5K Run and 1 Mile Fun Run/ Walk located in Ardmore, Alabama benefitting Ardmore area charities. The event is an annual event celebrating the good times and fun of the St. Patrick’s Day holiday with Irish music and food and with a variety of vendors. The race kicks off the day wth a crowd of runners/ walkers dressed in their best St. Paddy’s Day garb hitting the streets of Ardmore. The 1 mile Fun Run /Walk follows with walkers and runners of every age heading to that Pot O’ Gold. It is a fun filled day for family and friends to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day! Good times, good friends and the luck of the Irish all in the same place!!!!
Rocket Run Ten Miler Mar 15th
Rocket Run Ten Miler in Mooresville, AL This Huntsville Track Club Members Race (Membership Information Here) runs a ten mile route through Alabama’s oldest city.
ONGOING EVENTS The Alabama Veterans’ Museum needs volunteers! If you have a few hours per week and would like to help out, please call the museum at 256.771.7578. Pick the days and hours you would like to volunteer.
Martin Luther King Jr. March Jan 18th
Downtown Athens, AL. More information to come
Greek Informational Event for the High School Girls of Athens and
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10:00am to 3:00pm at Athens High School Gymnasium on US31 in Athens, AL. Fee For more information: 256-232-5017
Athens Home and Garden Show Mar 1st and 2nd
Canebrake Club’s Black and White New Year’s Eve Ball Dec 31st
Greek Informational Event Feb 9th
Hospice of Limestone County Chili Challenge Feb 22nd
The Friends of the Athens-Limestone Public Library hold used book sales on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and on the 1st Saturday of each month from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. The sale is held at the library, 405 E. South St. For further information, please call (256) 232-1233.
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December 20, 2013 - January 2, 2014
Uncommon Sense Law And Politics: The Gen Y Perspective waywwords.com
|
uncommonsenselaw.blogspot.com
|
beyondmymountaintop.blogspot.com
The Lost Art of Apologizing by Melissa Kirby uniform the law of various jurisdictions.”
Despite the growing popularity of internet shopping, this month tends to be one of traffic, travelers, and shoppers on a frantic mission. If you’ve been out in the holiday shopping this season, you may have ended up, like me, wrestling for a simple lane change in what should have been a midafternoon lull. I was raised on winding roads where hay bailers and cotton pickers are the only things that slow you down, and you wave when you pass another vehicle. In four lanes, scattered red lights, and 60 mph, I tend to do some of my worst driving. Years ago, as a teenager, I took a car full of people to an event. The officer who pulled me over said I was going 58 in a 45. I couldn’t believe I had been moving that fast, but I was in a hurry and distracted, and - it didn’t matter. It was my word against the officer’s. I didn’t try to argue with him; I took the blame and apologized. Taken aback, the officer let me go with a warning. I was told later that having a speeder simply apologize is so uncommon that he probably wasn’t sure what to do with me. Granted, I was also on the verge of tears, and I don’t care what you wear on your belt, no man likes to make a woman cry.
When you get pulled over, the verdict is up to the person in the uniform. Anyone who has seen Barney Fife at work knows that you don’t flaunt your disregard for the law without consequences. But what about asking for forgiveness? How about admitting a fault, promising to turn it around, and penitently requesting a pardon?
But the power of an apology is hard to overrate. Think of how many times a dangerous situation has been defused by someone taking the blame. Unless it’s a major, or a repeat offense, it is hard to hold something against someone who will totally accept that they are at fault. What would politics be like if those who ran our government contritely offered their apologies and their willingness to make amends, rather than denying the obvious? What if we had leaders who actually understood that the first rule of leadership is, like Hopper tells the princess in “A Bug’s Life:” “Everything is your fault.” I’m not talking about the kind of apology that is immediately followed by a “but.” That’s not an apology; that’s a quantifier. An excuse, wrapped in its politest form. I’m
December 20 - January 2, 2014
talking about saying sorry, and meaning it. A true apology is a forgotten art. Section 32-5A-11 of the
Alabama traffic law says, “This chapter shall be so interpreted and construed as to effectuate its general purpose to make
We all mess up. There’s no shame in admitting your guilt, and promising to do better, as long as you do as you promise. Let’s make an apology, and carry it out. Let’s remember the forgotten art.
Visit smart.athens.edu to get started.
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Tourism
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! by Teresa Todd, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association This first year at the Tourism Office has gone so quickly. Trade Shows, Festivals, Events and Marketing College all to attend, and meeting many new travelers to our town; it has been so enjoyable. Since we did have so many events, festivals and activities this past year, I thought I would give you an overview of 2013. The Alabama Veterans Museum is one of the best military exhibition halls in all of Alabama. They start us off every year and the first Saturday every month with Coffee Call, a locally sponsored breakfast for Veterans at 8:00 AM. Due to the increased interest at the Museum, you will be seeing new things happening there
this coming year. A new addition will be in the works as the old pavilion will be removed to make way for additional exhibits and guests.
Players performing in the famous Polk Sallet Follies. Then we had the Home and Garden Show in March.
Another active historical facility is the Houston Memorial Library and Museum. Here you will find some of the original artifacts of twotime Governor George S. Houston and the Donnell House Living Museum.
In April the fun time begins! We started with the Cruise In on the square every first Saturday of the month. The Athens Historic Walks each Saturday at the Visitor Center
February began our festivals and events. The Spirit of Athens sponsored their first ‘Chocolate Walk’ for Valentines, followed by the Limestone County Hospice Chili Challenge and finished up with the Prime Time
Confederate Veterans and ended the month with the Limestone County Sheriff’s Rodeo, winner of the 2010 Event of the Year!
mixed in with Earth Day Celebration/Outdoor EXPO, the Best Buckin’ BBQ Cook-off, the first of the monthly Singing on the Square ending with Cars & Bikes on the Square Car Show. As the rhyme goes with May flowers, you could find them at the Annual Athens Bible School Homespun Arts & Craft Show. Ardmore had their ‘Truck & Tractor’ pull, and the American Cancer Society had their annual Relay for Life. We also had a great educational ‘Living History’ at the Donnell House with the Sons of
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As June approaches and the kids are out of school, the Kiddie Carnival began… just in time! There were also the monthly Coffee Call, Cruise In and Singing on the Square, and Ardmore enjoyed their Kids Day. July started off with rain, lots of rain! We were even wishy washy on whether to have the July 4th fireworks. However, the rain did make for a nice & muddy CASA Mud Volleyball Tournament, and it dried up well for the Alabama Championship Tractor/ Truck Pull at Tanner. August’s awesome fun began with the Ardmore Rodeo followed by Piney Chapel
December 20, 2013 - January 2, 2014
Tourism downtown Athens. In December the excitement began to wind down…a little. However, there were still three parades, (Athens, Ardmore, and Elkmont) to enjoy, SOA’s Sippin’ Cider, plus Mooresville & Athens offered unique Progressive Home tours with meals. As you can see, we have so much to do and see. For information about our events for 2014, visit our website www.VisitAthensAL. com or call us at 256-
American Farm Heritage Days, Ardmore Quarterback Car Show, Athens State Community Band Annual Concert on the Square, Cruise In, Singing on the Square and the Ardmore Crape Myrtle Festival. September’s special events were the Annual Cemetery Walks, followed by the Annual Trail of Tears Remembrance Ride. We had the 5-K Duck and Run race, the Gospel Jubilee and the one and only ‘Athens Grease Festival’ for all things fried. With the cooler days and the beautiful colors of October, it can mean
only one thing--the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention. Or it could also mean ‘Haunts Walks’ every week with guided tours of all the haunted homes and businesses in Athens. The fun and prizes are always great at the Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby and the Elkmont Hilltop Arts Festival didn’t disappoint again this year with great entertainment and one of a kind crafts. The Athens Storytelling Festival had a special treat with the new amateur night, including winners Frank Travis and Jerry Todd.
232-5411. Stop by the Athens Visitors Center for brochures, maps, information on dining, shopping, events and attractions. The Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association staff and board would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We have great plans for an eventful 2014 tourism year and look forward to having you visit us anytime at 100 N. Beaty Street.
thanked our veterans for their service and sacrifice with parades and ceremonies. The Chamber of Commerce and Spirit of Athens offered another record breaking Christmas Open House in
In November we raised our flags, saluted and
December 20 - January 2, 2014
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What Makes Ronnie Roll
Celebrating And Anticipating
by Ali Elizabeth Turner
Mayor Ronnie, City Hall Communications Specialist Holly Hollman and I sat in the Mayor’s office with the purpose of “looking back and looking ahead.” While it’s customary to do a “yearin-review” article this time of year, it became clear that the most important thing to do with our time was to show gratitude for all the good that had occurred, while we anticipate what’s coming in 2014.
In January, the French Consul gave French Legion of Honor medals to WWII Vets Theo Calvin, Jack Hunter, Cal Bonner and Clifford Wilford, and came to us to do so.
In February, the city’s new CNG (compressed natural gas) garbage truck went to work, which caught the attention of Governor Bentley.
In March, in an AP article citing the findings of the
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, Limestone County was voted the fifth healthiest county in the State. April saw Athens being voted as the third most
and booming Farmer’s Market. Finally, Athens High School was named by U.S. News and World Report as the 13th best in Alabama. May events could take up the rest of the article, but some of the highlights
Mayor Ronnie Marks and Congressman Mo Brooks, Veterans’ Day Parade 2013
business friendly city in the State by the Alabama Policy Institute. In addition, Athens received the only $20,000 grant in the State to improve our beautiful, new, blooming
were a “whirlwind” trip by City leaders to the Big Apple to review our bond ratings, and there was an EFO twister which whirled through Athens, but thankfully caused little damage and no injuries. 284 new jobs were created in Limestone County, and Relay for Life raised a 2013 total of $14,047 dollars to fight cancer. In June, the Farmer’s Market was inaugurated, and was so successful that it ran longer than
originally planned. Life was preserved in July as Athens City Councilman Chris Seibert saved two kids from being taken away from the shoreline by a riptide. He was in Perdido Beach, CA attending a utilities conference. Justice was served as Andrew Lackey was executed for the stabbing, shooting and beating death of 80 year old Athens resident Charlie Newman. TVA named 141 acres on I-65 at milemarker 347 as “Primary/ Ready to Recruit,” which could attract global business to the area. August saw the switch to single stream recycling and a contract with Decatur, resulting in an increase in participation. September and October saw the beginning of Festival Season in Athens, and Grease, Fiddlers’ and Storytelling had a great turnout. The first public CNG station between Nashville and Birmingham opened, and Carpenter Technology announced it would employ 250 new workers by 2017. In November, the Trinity Community Center received a development
block grant for $250,000, the Parks and Rec 8 and 9 year old Boys’ Soccer team took the state title, and someone taped 2 Kilos of marijuana to a train at Dalkin, causing a bomb scare.
December was when the Tanner High Rattlers football team took their 2nd AA State title, the Athens High swim team finished as runner-ups, Steelcase doubled employment in Athens, and the Farmer’s Market beautification project was celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony. In the words of the Mayor, “It has been a fabulous year.”
Construction on the new library and City Hall is coming along, and should be completed in 2014, along with a number of roads which are being improved with the ATRIP grant. There are plans to expand the meeting area of the Alabama Vets’ Museum, and the Mayor’s Youth Commission now includes 9th and 10th graders. The Mayor just took some of kids to visit 5 hospice patients, and some walked in the Christmas Parade.
“God has given us many gifts, and the challenge is to do something good with them,” said Mayor Marks. The commitment to do just that is what makes Ronnie roll, and he and his staff wish all of you a blessed Christmas holiday and a joyous New Year.
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December 20, 2013 - January 2, 2014
December 20 - January 2, 2014
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Clean and Green
Why We Want NEED Your Cardboard, Newspaper, and Office Paper by Lynne Hart
Individuals and Businesses Can Help! Do you believe environmental education is important? Do you appreciate the fact that our local, nonprofit recycling center still accepts glass when no other center in the area will? Is it important that you can bring your electronics, batteries, cooking oil, motor oil, and #3-#7 plastics (as well as #1 and #2) to our center to be properly recycled when no one else in the area will take these items because they are not profitable? If these things are important to you, then you need to be aware that cardboard, newspaper, and office paper are the center’s most profitable commodities.
Profits made on these materials financially support environmental education, our ability to accept items that are not profitable, and allow us to contribute to the local economy by providing jobs. Why the Need NOW? The amount of profitable materials coming to our center has recently decreased, putting a strain on the center’s budget. Our recycling center continues to do the right thing by taking unprofitable items such as glass, electronics, batteries, and plastics #3-#7. Support from the community is needed for us to continue providing this high level of service. How Can We Fix It? We are asking city and county residents to continue to make the effort to bring
Green recycling trailers are available at most county schools and Athens Bible School for community use. cardboard and paperboard (e.g. cereal boxes), newspaper, and office paper to our center for processing. When you come to the center, bring along your aluminum cans and all your plastic
containers #1-#7. A green recycling trailer is located at Athens Bible School for the convenience of residents on the east side of Athens.
board and other recyclables are diverted from trash dumpsters, it may help reduce costs. Call 256-2338746 for more information.
County residents have recycling trailers available to them at most county schools. There are also cardboard trailers at East Limestone H.S., West Limestone H.S., Owens Elementary, Ardmore H.S., Creekside Elementary, Piney Chapel Elementary and Elkmont H.S. There will be cardboard trailers at Cedar Hill and Johnson Elementary Schools within the next week or two. The center is working on finding a location for a trailer in Tanner.
Especially at Christmas!
Businesses are asked to contact our recycling center to learn how they can recycle cardboard and/or office paper. Our center will provide collection containers and service them free of charge. If large amounts of cardRuby McCartney, Recycling Center Plant Manager, with a new cardboard mini-cycler recently placed at Sherwin Williams in Athens. Cardboard mini-cyclers are available to businesses in Athens and Limestone County by calling 256-233-8728.
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Our recycling center would appreciate everyone bringing cardboard boxes, wrapping paper and empty rolls, holiday cards, and gift bags (with all ribbon and bows removed) to be recycled. Just stuff it all in a cardboard box and bring it by the drop-off bins located in front of the center at 15896 Lucas Ferry Rd. (just south of Hwy. 72). The KALB staff and board members wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year!
Become a Fan
(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com December 20, 2013 - January 2, 2014
Cooking with Shelley
Pimento Cheese
by Shelley Underhill
Just in time for your holiday parties‌ Try this one on your family and friends! The cayenne pepper and hot sauce give it just the right kick. This cheese is served best very cold. And you should let it sit overnight. Email your questions to shelleysdesk@gmail.com
What you will need: 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese 1 cup Blue Plate mayo 1teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 teaspoons Louisiana hot sauce 7 ounce jar of drained pimentos Âź cup dehydrated chives Mix together all ingredients well. Refrigerate for several hours. Serve on crackers or with chips.
7950 Hwy 72 Suite A Madison, AL
December 20 - January 2, 2014
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Learning As A Lifestyle
A Year in Review / What’s Next by Wanda Campbell
Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 This has been a good year at the Center for Lifelong Learning. We increased our membership from 875 to 1116. It is good to know we are growing.
your calendar for February 13, 11:30 -1:30 at the Ballroom on the ASU Campus. Watch for details in our catalog coming out right after Christmas.
This year we hosted several big events. In February, we held the first Spoon and Croon Valentine Lunch. Over 60 people brought their sweethearts, best friends, or a sibling to hear Jack Sauers sing old favorites. We will be repeating this event in the New Year with our Sweet Melodies Valentine Lunch. Mark
We also hosted law enforcement representatives from around the state in our Active Shooter Training that was held in March. This training helped deputies and officers know what to do when someone was shooting up a school or mall. More than 50 people attended this event.
our second birthday with a dance party that kicked off our new Swing Dance class. Participants has such a good time dancing the night away they joined the Beginners class to learn the Lindy, East and West Coast Swing, and so much more.
In April we celebrated
to the dance and learn a step or two. Call 256-2338262 for details. During the summer months we hosted several camps for kids. Campers had a great time painting, learning to babysit, playing instruments, and learning the basics of drama. More than 100 kids attended this summer and we hope to see more next year. Our new summer camp brochure is coming out the end of February – watch for information in your mailbox, newspaper, or on our website – www.athens.edu/CLL.
real rundown on how City Hall works and how your officials are working for you. Join us for mouthwatering pie and stimulating conversation as we get to know our city better, one piece at a time.
We will be hosting several new things in 2014. In January we will kick
The opening session will be What You Didn’t Know About Annexation with Mayor Ronnie Marks and Dr. Jess Brown talking about why annexation should matter to you. Find out how annexation affects voting, taxation, and school districts. We will be serving apple pie for this discussion. The date is Tuesday, January 21, from 1:30-2:30 at the Center for Lifelong Learning.
off the Our Town series. Like politics? Like pie? Even if you have lived in Athens all your life, this series will introduce you to “Our Town.” Forget the pie charts and pies-in-thesky. You’ll be getting the
Learning is a process and it is the everyday learning that helps us grow and makes us wise. We hope to see you at the Center in the New Year. I wish you and yours a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Classes were so popular we also offered the class in Decatur. Next year we will be kicking off the Dance class with a Sweetheart Dance on Friday, February 14. Even if you don’t know how to dance, you can bring your sweetheart
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December 20, 2013 - January 2, 2014
Cover Story
Roger’s Portraits: Thirty Years Serving Athens On The Courthouse Square
by Ali Elizabeth Turner
continued from page 1
in the area, having graduated from Tanner High in 1970. He had planned on a career as an architect, but realized that designing buildings wasn’t his true calling, but “designing” memories and capturing them on film was. By “chance,” in 1972 he went to work for Olan Mills studios, spent a year there, worked for B&R Studios in Scottsboro, and then went into business for himself in 1980. For several years he travelled to various stores in North Alabama and took pictures of children, then after opening the studio in Athens, was able to slowly phase out being on the road. Roger calls himself the “children’s portrait specialist,” and to this day still gets great joy out of capturing childhood on camera and converting it into a priceless memory. “I have kids who walk by the
studio and start crying if they can’t come in, because we have so much fun,” he told me. While I was in the studio, a young mother that he began to “shoot” when she was about 4 years old came in with one of her kids, and he is happily now on to photographing the next generation. He takes pictures for children in several of the area’s day care centers, and loves to get out of the shop to do his work. He also enjoys having people come to him. The studio prop room is full of all manner of items that make a portrait “pop,” and there are a number of backdrops from which to choose, including a green screen. The green screen is used to layer in special effects through the use of Photo Shop, the software program that has taken portrait photography to new heights. Portrait studios, as is the
case with so many industries, have had to adjust as the result of new technology that, as Roger puts it, “has put the ability to take great pictures in the hands of the average person.” He recalls attending a national Professional Photographers of America conference in 2005, where a Vice-President of Kodak flatly stated that they would stop producing film in 2010 because of digital photography. Roger wisely learned how to use Photo Shop, and did
it entirely on his own. The result is that the studio survived the “sea change,” and loves what technology has done to expand the industry. Nothing, however, can replace the relationship between an award winning photographer and his subject(s), and though the industry was shaken up for awhile, Roger remains a busy man with family reunions, weddings, special events and in-studio portraits. He showed me a piece he is just finishing up that will be unveiled soon in the Courthouse. It is of local members of the Bar Association, and he gave me a brief “tour” on his computer that showed how he took the photos of each, and
December 20 - January 2, 2014
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configured them into what should be a historic photograph that will remain in the Courthouse long after he’s gone. Roger is a true romantic at heart, (as exhibited by the cover shot taken with his beautiful wife Vicki,) and greatly enjoys doing portraits for Valentine’s Day. He also learned an invaluable secret in successfully shooting weddings, (which can be very stressful for everyone,) and that is making sure that he answers to only one person, whether it’s the bride, the bride’s mom, or the wedding director. Another of his photographic “loves” is restoration, something which is now much easier and cheaper with digital software. “There is always a story behind the photo,” he says, and sometimes that is a literal statement. “We have found old love letters, other photos, deeds to property, all kinds of things stored behind the original,” he said, “and it’s always wonderful to see the look on the faces of the people when they see the restored photo and other treasures they knew nothing about.” Roger describes himself as “the average person’s photographer,” and by that he means that he “makes people feel comfortable,” and has no in-
terest in being anything other than easy to work with while creating a high quality portrait. “I’m not the most expensive, and I’m not the cheapest, but my work is good,” he said. He has won awards in the Southeast through the regional Professional Photographers of America competitions as best in class, but he doesn’t set much store by trophies. He lets his work speak or itself. “So, why should I come to you?” I asked. He fired back with a shameless grin, “Because I am good.” Come let a love for people, photography, and decades of experience be put to work for you at Roger’s Portraits, and watch him “capture a memory.”
Roger’s Portraits
115 W. Washington Street Athens, AL 35611 Phone: 256-233-4443 Cell: 256-431-6332 www.rogersportraits.com rogersportrait@ bellsouth.net Facebook: Roger Bedingfield/Rogers Portraits Page 15
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December 20, 2013 - January 2, 2014
Cover Story
Vietnam Veterans Of America: Serving Troops And Townfolk
by Ali Elizabeth Turner
continued from page 1
live, has grown to a national membership of 65,000 with 617 chapters. In Athens, there is a solid group with a membership of 168, in Local Chapter 511 and the purpose of this article is to inform the people of our town as to the ways the VVA makes Athens a better place to live. We have a number of ‘Nam or ‘Nam era vets who serve our community as part of its government. Mayor Ronnie Marks, Sheriff Mike Blakely, Limestone County Commissioner Stanley Menefee, and State Representative Dan Williams all served our country during what was a difficult time to be in the military. They, along with other area residents and businesspeople continue to do so through the VVA. In the early days, when the local VVA chapter was just getting started, all of the veterans’ groups, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, the Disabled American Veterans and the Vietnam Veterans of America used to meet at a bank in Athens. It became clear that the VVA needed their own “digs,” and some of the founders, including Ricky Knowles, Billy Massey, Hank Cobb, Jim Watson, Mike Davis, Ken David, Danny Gilliam and others set out to procure land and build a building. The land, which is located on the corner of Elm and Lucas Ferry, as well as the building are now owned free and clear. Retired USAF Master Sergeant Bill Schueler chuckled when he told me about some of the things that were done to pay for the property and the building. “The first year we smoked over 12,000
pounds of turkey to raise money for the building.” “Wow!” I replied. They used to smoke turkeys and hams, have Bingo games, dances, dinners, and more, and paid everything off in about 30 months. They set to work to make the wall that commemorates those who gave their lives during the War in Vietnam, located at the I-65 “Rocket Exit,” number 365. It is Alabama’s version of “the Wall” in D.C. There was also a tribal ceremony at the rest stop to honor the Alabama Native Americans who died in Vietnam when the wall was
Stew 11 to 2,” along with a Turkey Shoot. For the Turkey Shoot, the VVA provides the ammo. “The Turkey Shoot came about as a result for requests from the community,” he told me. Other events the VVA holds are dances each Saturday night, and on the 3rd Monday of every month they hold a spaghetti dinner and supper. They also rent the building out for $250 and a refundable damage deposit of $100. The VVA is responsible for holding the local POW/MIA missing man ceremony, which occurs nationally on the 3rd
VVA members Bill Schueler and Jim Watson present a mobility scooter to Retired Command Sergeant Major David Crooks. Also pictured, CSM Brooks’ wife, Ruby.
who was in the Army, Treasurer, Retired USAF Master Sergeant Bill Schueler, Billy Turner, who served
This past Thanksgiving the VVA prepared a community dinner for approximately 200 who came to the building, and volunteers delivered around 100 dinners to shut-ins in Limestone County. Another new event is a gospel sing held every 1st Sunday, and food is collected for needy folks in Limestone County. The officers of Chapter 511 are as follows: President, Retired USAF Major Al Nuss, Senior Vice President, Bill McKinley, who served in the Navy, 2nd Vice President John Houck, who served in the Army, Quartermaster, Jim Watson,
in the Army, Sgt of Guard Mike Hardy, formerly of the Navy. All of these men work to make sure VVA is running smoothly and there is a Friends of VVA group who volunteers at events as well. “So, what’s ahead?” I asked Bill. “Well, these are in the dream stage still, but we are looking to have a horseshoe tournament and an archery tournament next year.” Bill also wanted to thank Athens for all their support, and to wish Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Also, “if you are a Vietnam or Vietnam Era vet and need help, please contact us. We’re here to help.”
Vietnam Veterans of America
completed. Since then, there have been a number of projects that the VVA has been involved in. “Right now we are focusing on the Scholarship program,” said Schueler. “Just recently we were granted $2500 for the fund,” he said, and they are looking to make it possible for the VVA children, grandkids and great grandkids to get an education. Every first Saturday they have “Chicken
December 20 - January 2, 2014
Friday of September. I have attended one held at the Alabama Veterans’ Museum, and it was profoundly moving.
17915 W. Elm Street Athens, AL 35611 Phone numbers: (256) 233-5549 and (256) 206-5399 www.athensnowal.com
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Health and Fitness
More Than 60% Of The U.S. Population Is Overweight Or Obese by Janet Hunt
Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment. Possible answers.
9. Our friends make us fat. If you’re putting on weight, you might consider who you’re hanging around with. The New England Journal of Medicine recently published a study suggesting that obesity may be “socially contagious.” The article concluded that having an overweight friend, sibling or spouse increased the risk of obesity by as much as 60 percent.
1. Fast Food. We think we are too busy to make healthy meals at home. So we opt for fast food. But fast foods compromise the quality of our diets.: They are high in fat, low in fiber, and offer huge portion sizes—all of which lead to obesity. 2. Lack of exercise and sedentary lifestyles. All the conveniences in our lives have increased our likelihood to sit. 3. Emotional eating. “Emotional eating” is a term that refers to eating large quantities of food—junk food, in particular—in an attempt to mask such feelings as depression, anxiety or loneliness, instead of hunger. Much of our overeating is caused by emotion. 4. Task Snacking. Eating while doing something else such as sitting at computers, while driving or watching
TV, talking on the phone, or standing at the kitchen counter.
stimulating hormone and lowering an appetite suppressor.
5. Lack of Sleep. Sleep deprivation boosts an appetite-
6. Eating Too Fast. We have a fast-paced life, but eating fast results in eating too much before we’re aware that we’re full. The brain requires about 15 to 20 minutes before beginning to signal feelings of fullness.
heart rates, blood pressure and metabolic rates decline, which means that we burn very few calories. 8. Cluelessness. Many are simply unaware of calories or fat content.
10. Credit card use. Visa studied 100,000 fast-food purchases and found that people who pay for their food with a credit card spend nearly one-third more than those who pay with cash. For the average person who eats fast food once a week and pays with plastic, the result is an extra approximately 17,000 calories—or five pounds a year!
Looking for help making some Lifestyle Changes? Call Janet Hunt, an ACE Certified Health Coach at 256-614-3530.
7. Watching too much TV. People who watch lots of TV daily are much more likely to be overweight because when we watch the tube we’re essentially motionless; our
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December 20, 2013 - January 2, 2014
Like me on
The World According To Will
The Will Anderson Show M-F 6pm-8pm on 800 and 1230AM and 106.5FM WBHP
A War Against Christmas? Yes, Virginia, It Exists!
by Will Anderson
I saw a sign recently that said, “Christmas trees, five dollars a foot; holiday trees, ten dollars a foot. Merry Christmas.” Surely some would cry discrimination, (which was, I think, the point). Every year we hear about the war on Christmas--something I think is a bit overblown. I don’t know anyone personally who is hostile toward the birth of Christ (and I have friends of all religious stripes) and if a friend comes to the house this year, presumably he will keep silent about any Grinchesque anti-Christmas impulses. How has it come to this? When I was a maladjusted child, Christmas wasn’t the problem. In fact, I never heard any anti-Christmas obloquy growing up. And somehow, I didn’t end up being maladjusted as a child. I watched all the Christmas specials, never heard the phrase “Happy Holidays,” and somehow, I made it. I could make a religious
point here, but perhaps the more important point is that political correctness has indeed run amok. And to allude to the Grinch imagery above, the PC folks have made us all wonder whether or not saying “Merry Christmas” will offend someone. And it gets worse. The Campaign for a Com-
mercial Free Childhood is protesting that Norad is promoting violence and militarism by track-
ing Santa’s Sleigh, something they’ve being doing for years. So we’ve reached the point where
it’s not just the parents who get burned by those who refuse to let Christmas be; it’s the children, as well. The Left loves to exploit children but usually when they do it, it’s to advance bigger government. Not this time, unless you think that distorting the 1st Amendment isn’t activism. Come to think of it, it is. If you don’t like Christmas, Mr. Grinch, then sit on your hill and leave the rest of us alone. Incidentally, the Campaign for a Commercial Free Childhood wants to ban Happy Meals as well. Happy Meals (as far as I know) don’t contain a prize ready to proselytize. Merry Christmas, everyone.
Citgo Touchless Car Wash
Holiday Car Wash and Wax Special!
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1404 US Hwy 72 E • Athens, AL 35611 256-221-5354 Mon-Sat 7 am-7pm • Sun 8-5:30
If It Don’t Shine, It Ain’t Mine! December 20 - January 2, 2014
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Horse Whispering
Gifts Recently a local group known as American Heritage Girls scheduled an appointment with Corral Connections. What a lovely group of amazing learners. What was intended to be a one hour session turned into two hours as the students’ interests kept igniting the teacher and lover of horses in me! The students came clothed with their hats, gloves, and coats. Not even a cool breezy day would interfere with this event. Each student built their own book as paper was handed out. The classroom was benches and hay bales in the twelve-foot alley way inside the barn. Horses leaned their chests against their stall guards as they enjoyed the enthusiasm and energy these students brought with them, generated by their love of horses.
by Deb Kitchenmaster under is called a _____. A female horse age three and older is called a ______. How are you doing with your answers? We identified five different markings on a horse’s face: star, snip, blaze, stripe and bald. Can you describe each of these markings?
the horse’s tail. (6) Clean the horse’s face; use a facial (soft) brush. Remember proper strokes: Above eyes, inside ears, under jaw and gently on muzzle. This is where the class on “The Parts of the Horse” comes in handy. (7) Pick out horse’s feet using a hoof pick.
We covered ten equine safety rules, haltering, and grooming. Here at Corral Connections we groom in a seven step rhythm. (1) We begin with a curry comb starting at the horses’ poll and work to his hindquarters. We do not apply this step to the horses’ legs. (2) Repeat with a stiff brush (flick, flick, and flick with your wrists. Brush legs. (3) Now it’s time to brush with a soft or “finisher”
his withers? Again, the class on “The Parts of a Horse” comes in handy here.
The goal was to teach storytelling, creating a take home book and provide hands on information in haltering, leading, and grooming. A play area was set up in the round pen with 2 equine balls for gaming and fun filled laughter. The mounting block provided some needed rest for a moment. By the north entrance, a couple of hay horses with their wooden horsey heads that contained reins and a horse blanket under a saddle carried some of the younger students across plains and over all imaginable terrains. The equine family was discussed. The mare is called a ______. She is the mother of the foal. A boy foal is called a ______. A girl foal is called a _____. A stallion is called the ____when he is the father of the foal. A female horse ages three and
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In conclusion, when measuring a horse the term “hands” is mentioned. Let’s say, “This horse is 15.1 hands.” A “Hand” equals how many inches? If a horse measures at 15.1 hands, how many inches does he measure from the ground to
Out of curiosity I looked up the word “heritage”. Words such as inheritance, birthright and bequest appeared on my computer screen. From the word bequest comes the word gift. In honor of the American Heritage Girls, Corbrush; both sides and legs. Remember to brush in girth area every time you groom your horse. (4) Brush mane with soft brush, fingers or comb. Be careful not to pull out mane. (5) Brush tail; remember proper stance and to hold tail below tailbone, applying pressure to your arm, not
ral Connections would like to offer a gift to you, the reader, of the Horse Whispering column. Answer the six questions about the equine family, describe the five different equine facial markings, list the Corral Connections 7 steps of grooming a horse, and answer the two questions about measuring a horse. How many inches in a “hand,” and how tall in inches would a 15.1 hand horse measure?
Email your answers to dkitchenmaster@ mchsi.com. The first responder with the correct answers will receive an equine gift. Let’s have some fun!
In a few days many will be celebrating a birthday! When Mary gave birth to Jesus, the only Begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth, each of us was given a Gift, the Gift of a Savior! When we choose to believe and receive (unwrap,) we are forgiven, reconciled, redeemed; blessed beyond measure. Upon receiving these “immeasurable gifts” we become ‘gifts’ to everyone we meet; our “NEIGHbor”. MERRY CHRISTMAS Deb Kitchenmaster Your NEIGHbor, Deb Kitchenmaster Corral Connections: Connecting with LIFE through a horse Animal B.E.S.T practitioner dkitchenmaster@mchsi.com
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December 20, 2013 - January 2, 2014
The View From The Bridge
Jackie Warner
Community Outreach “Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters
New Year’s Resolutions for Entrepreneurs - What worked in 2013? What didn’t?
Business owners ask yourselves what worked and what didn’t for 2013. As you start to prepare for business success in 2014, taking a critical look at your business success strategies is vital for future business growth. Review the comments made by your customers. Look at commons, trends, peaks, and valleys in your business during the 2013 year. Use this data to make changes and adjustments to increase your opportunities for continued or new success. One of the most important investments you will make in your business is taking time to truly evaluate where you are currently in your business. Identify any gaps or barriers to your success and then act upon your findings. Review and complete the business scorecard below and use the results to start achieving your business success for 2014. •Development of Smart Business goals. SMART Goals are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, RealisticResults, & Time Oriented.
by Jackie Warner
your knowledge level. Stay connected and abreast in your industry!
•Join a business organization or networking group. Increase your Audience!
•Give back to your community.
•Do you have the right tools and resources? What equipment do you need to be successful? Get it!
•Take time for you and recharge. Business Success is Challenging!
Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional Jackie Warner, Career Development Facilitator The Bridge “Where Community Matters”
it’s time to delegate. Hire a part-time assistant or college intern. •Who is your Audience? How are you promoting your business? What’s your Marketing Plan? Do you have a website and a social media presence?
•Listen to Your Customers!
•Make business planning a weekly event. What’s working? What’s not? Adjust!
•Are you trying to do too much yourself? Maybe
•Learn something new. Enroll in a course to increase
December 20 - January 2, 2014
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Medical Update
Midwifery In Alabama What is a midwife? According to the definition given by the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM), a midwife is a healthcare provider offering services to women of all ages in all stages of life. They have advanced education and focus on partnering with women, making them among the most modern, forwardthinking health professionals in the U.S. today (midwife.org, ACNM). Many midwives do not only focus on maternity care, but attend to all the healthcare needs specifically related to a woman’s health such
as annual exams, family planning, care and treatment of infections, menopause care, and the care of teenage girls in addition to care during pregnancy. There are also different kinds of midwives, including Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs), Certified Midwives (CMs), Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs), and noncertified midwives (who may or may not have proper training to assist with pregnancy and delivery).
ated from an accredited program. They must also pass a national examination. A CM is a midwife with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and goes for a graduate degree in midwifery. Their scope
By Rachel Clark of practice is the same as that of a CNM and training is comparable. A CPM is trained either through the apprenticeship model or an accredited program, but their scope of practice isn’t as
A CNM is a nurse who has gone for a master’s degree (in addition to their RN,) and gradu-
broad as that of a CNM or CM, and can only provide pre- and postnatal care and delivery care. Midwives practice in a variety of settings including hospitals, free-standing birth clinics, and homes. In the state of Alabama, midwives are only allowed to practice in hospitals in conjunction with OBGYNs, making the law the strictest in the nation. This has not always been the case. In 1975, the state began granting licensure
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only to CNMs. Initially independent midwives with a valid permit issued by the Alabama Department of Health were still allowed to practice. Over the next few years, permits were not renewed and midwives were informed that they must cease to practice. Midwives continued to practice during the 1980s and 1990s, (though it was illegal,) and some still do. In the early 1990s, a court of appeals set a precedent in the state of Alabama by overturning the dismissal of 5 misdemeanor charges against a Certified Professional Midwife for practicing midwifery without a license. A similar circumstance occurred in 2002 in Cullman, AL. Some midwives in Alabama have traveled across state lines in order to safely and legally care for women. As grim as this all sounds, there are organizations in Alabama working to overturn these extremely restrictive laws in order to give women more options regarding prenatal care and childbirth. Both the Alabama Birth Coalition and the Alabama Midwives Alliance have been hard at work on this issue. They lobby for trained midwives to be able to safely practice in this state, thus ensuring that women will have choices open to them that currently are not available. For more information, please visit www.alabamamidwivesalliance.org.
December 20, 2013 - January 2, 2014
Security Savvy
Cursive Writing And Security, Is There A Link? by Jim Doyle, owner of Madison Security Group 203 Us Highway 31 S, Athens, AL 35611 hand held computers and smartphones that they have a hard time talking with people face to face and have completely lost control of reality. Every time I get behind the wheel of my car, I notice other people driving with the smartphone flat against their head or holding it while they
Why would this situation be a security concern?
The US ranks 20th in the world in reading.
The US ranks 29th in the world in math.
So why should we teach our children how to write their own name when they can print or TEXT?
How will a child learn when all they need to do is GOOGLE it on their SMARTPHONE?
What is happening to our society? What will happen when a child needs to read a letter written in CURSIVE? Will they have to bring it to a person over 30 to read it to them?
I have received text messages from savvy smart phone users and the new language or non-spelling has me confused. I don’t know what they are trying to say. OMG what am I to do. What if something serious has happened and I need to decipher what the person
is texting me? I have witnessed situations that could have been disastrous, and I have witnessed one party say I sent a text about that problem. It seems that texting is the way of communication. To me it’s a way to hide from actually talking with a person face to face.
It really scares me that our younger generation is living in a world controlled by computers and they won’t be able to write about it.
I run a security company and one of the most important functions of security is reporting a crime or other situations. This
is usually done by writing a report, which is a legal document and can/has been used in court. On most job applications it will ask whether a person can read or write English. I believe that our young people are becoming so dependent on the
December 20 - January 2, 2014
converse with someone else. In addition, texting has not stopped while driving. Maybe this is the new way to communicate; LOL, cannot wait to see this class taught in our schools. Then again, BLING has been accepted as a word. I really need to understand why someone decided that we need a machine that can think for our children and if needed correct their gramma (oops, that is a Boston word) grammar. Now I have one more question: when are we going to get rid of our teachers and have our children taught by a DROID, or just look at their tablet and be taught by video in a virtual classroom?
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As always stay safe, don’t post your private information on Facebook, and have a great Holiday.
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