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May 21st - June 3rd, 2021

AthensNowal.com E-MAIL: info@athensnowal.com ADVERTISING: Ali Elizabeth: 256-468-9425 Degan Wilder: 256-426-2493

See Our Listings Inside this edition... Pages 25 - 32

From The Vets' Museum Meet CW4 Stormy Ripley... Meet Retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CW4) Stormy Sandi McLemore Ripley, born at Fort Rucker, Alabama, in 1962... Page 10

Cooking With Anna

Save June 5 For The 3rd Annual Addiction Eviction Rally By Ali Elizabeth Turner On June 5, from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Athens-Limestone County is going to have a chance to face down as a community something that has become an epidemic: addictions of all kinds. The event is called Addiction Eviction, and people will come together in hope to get and give Continued on page 15

Wallpaper In The Hallway... We live in a small house built in the early 1940s. Two bedrooms, one bath, and one tiny hallway. The hallway is almost a tiny square room itself; it almost doesn’t even... Page 13

The AthensLimestone Public Library’s Summer 2021 Events Are Here

PlayAction Sports Spring Sports Update... Ardmore announced Jonathan Snider as their new football coach, replacing P.J. Wright, who resigned to take over at St. Clair County... Page 17

May 21 - June 03, 2021

By Ali Elizabeth Turner Not only has spring fully sprung, but it’s “bustin’ out all over, and places like the Library are fully Continued on page 5

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May 21 - June 03, 2021

Publisher’s Point Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Copy Editor

Yvonne Dempsey

Sales & Distribution Degan Wilder

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Contributing Writers D. A. Slinkard Lisa Philippart Leigh Patterson Anna Hamilton Deb Kitchenmaster Nick Thomas Roy Williams Sandra Thompson Jackie Warner Eric Betts Steve Leland Tim Lambert Mae Lewis

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Cover Story . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar Of Events . . . . . . . 6 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 8 From The Vets' Museum . . . 10 Slinkard on Success . . . . . . 11 Clean Green And Beautiful . . 12 Cooking With Anna . . . . . 13

Planapalooza And The “Place Type Palette” I know, that’s a lot of “Ps” for a title, but there really is nothing else that can describe my enthusiasm and the education I received from May 15-19 as I attended the Planapalooza event on Zoom, as well as at the Center for Lifelong Learning and at City Hall. The City of Athens hired the Town Planning and Urban Design Collaborative out of Franklin, TN, and their team taught us as well as listened to us for days, and then came up with some awesome possibilities as to how Athens grow well. There were discussions regarding housing, restaurants, retail, traffic, economic development, entertainment, historic preservation, making community centers. The concepts of how to grow well were both timeless and current, and discussions were lively and thoughtful. More than anything, I was struck by how TPUDC genuinely cared for us. They talked about the need for “the fingerprints of the community to be on the process.”

and Limestone County is the fastest growing county in Alabama. It is expected that it will reach 45,000 by 2040. The opportunities for developing exquisitely are nearly endless, if we can get after it NOW, and the good news is that we are NOT built-out. There was a clear emphasis on the need for not just settling for not becoming Madison, but being ourselves, only better. It is crucial that we have all kinds of housing, all kinds of businesses, all kinds of approaches, and all of it being voted on, implemented, and hammered out as each part of a comprehensive plan comes forth in germ-seed form. What one of the facilitators challenged us to do was to be demanding in a good way, and shape

Athens. The TPUDC referred to our downtown area as a “jewel,” and they are both fiercely protective of it and have ideas as to how it can be enhanced. Brilliant ideas for improving traffic were proposed, one of which was making a new east-west access point for I-65. Hobbs is wide enough to be able to handle a bike trail on each edge of the street without creating a traffic hassle. I never had thought of the creek as being particularly attractive, but there are ways to improve it and make a place for a creek walk down near the Farmer’s Market that could also have benches, restaurants, and a dog park. Because I had had the chance to attend several of the meetings and getting

to speak with the planners, I felt emotionally thankful for all their hard work. At the last meeting, we were given a chance to share our thoughts and questions, and I was gratified that many took their time at the mic to express their gratitude as well. I felt as though Athens had been given a huge shot of hope that was realistic and which could be manifestly and tangibly realized.

So, what in the world does the fancy term “place type palette” actually mean? In the language of “urban planning-ese,” it is taking the current state or use of a place and giving options, with the result of dreaming well. In all the years I have lived in Athens, I have never attended a better set of meetings.

Stay tuned, Athenians, there is more to come, and the best is still to come!

Ali Elizabeth Turner Athens Now Information & Inspiration 256-468-9425 ali@athensnowal.com Website: www.athensnowal.com

At the moment, the population of Athens is 27,000,

Steve's Corner . . . . . . . . 14 Cover Story . . . . . . . . 15 Health And Fitness . . . . . . 16 PlayAction Sports . . . . . . . 17 Lifelong Learning . . . . . . . 18 View From The Bridge . . . . 19 Horse Whispering . . . . . . . 20 Mental Health Minute . . . 21 Alternative Approach . . . . 22 Special Feature . . . . . . 24

May 21 - June 03, 2021

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All Things Soldier

Operation Guardian Of The Walls by Ali Elizabeth Turner A little over 10 days ago, Hamas launched a rocket offensive from Gaza against Israel. Without going into great detail, the entire affair can be summed up by King Solomon’s timeless words, “There is nothing new under the sun.” Once again a terrorist group has attacked Israel, and it is a terrorist group which has in the preamble of its charter the following: "Israel will exist and will continue to exist until Islam will obliterate it, just as it obliterated others before it." And, should there be any confusion with regard to Hamas’ take on diplomacy and peace treaties,

their charter also indicates: "[Peace] initiatives, and so-called peaceful solutions and international conferences are in contradiction to the principles of the Islamic Resistance Movement... Those conferences are no more than a means to appoint the infidels as arbitrators in the lands of Islam... There is no solution for the Palestinian problem except by Jihad. Initiatives, proposals and international conferences are but a waste of time, an exercise in futility." No surprises so far. Hamas knows to hide multiple aspects of its

offensives in buildings that are occupied by Arab civilians so when Israel takes out, say, an operation that is in a tunnel under the Associated Press, (which by the testimony of reporters there claimed that Hamas had operated out of their office as well for years and no one did anything about it) it does a good job of creating bad press. Use of civilian human shields? Check. Four thousand rockets fired to date? Check. Refusal to acknowledge that the houses in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood were purchased long ago by Jewish settlers before 1948 and, therefore, there must be a riot to prove a point? Check. Abbas choosing

to cancel elections and then blame Israel for it? Check. The usual handwringing in Congress by the usual suspects? (As in Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Rashida Tlaib) Check. House Democrats voting unanimously against Israel and House Republicans voting unanimously for Israel? Check. Bibi Netanyahu has steadfastly stated that he will continue to see to it that Israel shall continue to defend itself, and really, the only surprise is that President Biden has agreed that he has the right to do that, at least as of this writing. But think of this: If you were the President of the United States, and Canada launched 4,000 rockets at your country, how meaningful would it be for the President of Mexico to say something along the lines of “I agree, you have the right to defend yourself, but I expect you to draw down and get to a ceasefire within the next few days”? Behind closed doors, would you just laugh? Who could blame you? As is always the case, despotic leaders of state-sponsored terrorists make ridiculous claims, and here is my current favorite: “Today we are witnessing the birth of a new Palestine… fighting with missiles,” Major General Hossein Salami said at a

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pro-Palestinian rally in central Tehran’s Imam Hossein Square. “A new Israel has also emerged, one that is broken, frustrated, downcast, that has lost confidence in itself,” said Salami. Broken? Frustrated? Downcast? The IDF just used Twitter to signal to international news agencies that Israel had started a ground war so that Hamas would flood the extensive tunnel system they built after the last war, and then the Israeli Air Force bombed the bazotts out of the tunnels. That sounds like a successful head fake to me, and in addition, the Iron Dome all in all is holding well. So, what is different this time? I think for me it was the detailed record kept by the IDF of the time stamp of incoming rockets. They were coming in every few minutes, and have been relentless. With technology, the precise record of what has been taking place is easy to prove, not the least of which are the videos of the attacks that have been filmed by civilians. Even with all of it, I do have hope. You see, I have “read the Book,” and I am convinced beyond a shadow of a doubt that Hamas will fail, and until then, may the Guardians of the Wall continue to hold fast. And, it never hurts to “pray for the peace of Jerusalem.”

May 21 - June 03, 2021

Cover Story

The Athens-Limestone Public Library’s Summer 2021 Events Are Here by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

coming back from COVID by planning events that you can actually attend in person and enjoy as a community. On Saturday, June 5, the Athens-Limestone Public Library is throwing a party, and everyone on the staff and the Library Foundation wants you to come! It will be from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

May 21 - June 03, 2021

“The Summer Reading Program itself has events and programs for all ages, including: baby, toddler, family, tween, and teen! The kick-off party event will have activities and events that are mostly geared toward children who enjoy Play-doh, storytelling, temporary tattoos, and games such as 'Fishing for a Prize',” said Jennifer Baxter, our new librarian.

As I spoke with Jennifer, it was obvious that she is so glad to be able to offer hope that the days of the library being about as empty as an airplane hangar are finally over. To be sure, the Athens-Limestone Public Library opened back up as soon as it was safe to do so and followed all the guidelines, but people stayed away from the library pretty much like they did from

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everything else. Jennifer was thankful for how everyone worked together during that difficult time, and her smile indicated to me how excited she is for this summer to get going. Already there has been the sound of giggles from “younguns” pretending to be Princess Leia, and there will be more to come. Jennifer is also thankful for the local businesses that have been

steadily supportive throughout our “COVID Capers.” She particularly wanted to thank New Leaf Medical Clinic, Ming Enterprises, and Listerhill Credit Union for being sponsors of the reading programs. Mark your calendars for June 5 and chart your course for the Library. A whole world waits to re-join you!

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Calendar of Events 2021 Summer Concert Series May 21

Kickoff Concert of the 2021 Summer Concert Series: Singing on the Square on the Limestone County Courthouse Eastside Steps (150 South Marion Street in Athens) from 7:00PM9:00PM. Grab some takeout, nestle in with your camp chair and come kickoff the 2021 season of the Summer Concert Series: Singing on the Square with Athens-Limestone Tourism as they present Briana and Garrett Dean. Tonight's show made possible by support of the Limestone County Sheriff's Rodeo. Free and open to the public; donation welcome. Marion Street will be closed off starting at 5:30PM to allow for setup. Rain location: Vietnam Veterans of America Building (17915 West Elm Street in Athens). For more information: VisitAthensAL. com/singing-on-the-square or 256-232-5411

Fridays After Five May 21

Athens Main Street in downtown Athens from 5:00PM-8:00PM with stores open late, kid activity stations, dining at local eateries as well as food trucks, art, antiques and more. M ake plans to come early to the Square at 2:00PM as ARCY, renowned street artist, starts creating a tribute mural to Limestone County’s own Grammy-winning, singer-songwriter Brittany Howard in Merchants Alley. You can watch the mural unfold throughout the evening until 8:00PM.

Garden Tour May 22

With the Limestone County Master Gardeners touring beautifully blooming and landscaped private gardens dotted throughout the community from 9:00AM-1:00PM. Tickets are $15.00 in advance at Hyatt & Sims (211 West Washington Street in Athens) before May 22nd and $20.00 day of the tour. Funds raised will go to support the community projects of Limestone County Master Gardeners Assocation.

Outdoor Movie Night May 22

with highlights of local history and wildlife from Captain Steve. Seats range from $15.00-$25.00. For more information, call/ text 256-335-2187.

Ask A Master Gardener May 25

At the Athens-Limestone Public Library. 603 South Jefferson Street in Athens. From 10:15AM-2:15PM with the AthensLimestone Master Gardeners. For more information about the Master Gardeners, you can contact them at limestonemg@ yahoo.com.

Memorial Day Program May 31

With the Alabama Veterans Museum and Archives at the Limestone County Event Center. 100 West Pryor Street in Athens. Starting at 11:00AM. Key note speakers to be announced. Free and open to the public.

Murph Challenge 2021 May 31

At Athens Recreation Center. 270 U.S. Highway 31N in Athens. From 7:00AM-10:00AM. Push yourself, humble yourself and dedicate a bit of pain and sweat to honor a man who gave everything - Lt. Michael P. Murphy (SEAL). Challenge: 1 mile run; 100 pull-ups; 200 push ups; 300 squats; 1 mile run. HalfMurphy and weighted vest add on options available. Online Registrations at MurphChallenge and receive free t-shirt. Registration not mandatory to participate.

Take a Hike with Mike: Wildflower Hike May 29

At Joe Wheeler State Park Blue Trail. West of the Lodge 4403 McLean Drive in Athens. Starting at 9:00AM. Join Park Naturalist Emeritus and wildflower expert Mike Ezell as he guides you through the wonderful world of wildflowers within Joe Wheeler State Park. For more information email Samuel. Woodroof@dcnr.alabama.gov.

With Mays Memorial Baptist Church (23636 AL-251 in Athens) starting at 7:00PM. Bring the family for games, a movie and popcorn. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Free and Open to the public.

Scenic Cruise aboard the Nautical Wheeler May 23

With Wheeler Lake Scenic Cruise setting sail from Joe Wheeler State Park Marina (4405 McLean Drive in Rogersville) at 3:00PM for a 1.5 hour cruise including the beautiful scenery of Joe Wheeler State Park and a close up look at Wheeler dam Page 6

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For the health and safety of our volunteers and the public, we regret that the VVA Spaghetti Day has been canceled until further notice. Thank you for your support and understanding. May 21 - June 03, 2021

May 21 - June 03, 2021

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

Believing Is Seeing by Ali Elizabeth Turner

Mayor Ronnie was back from a conference he and some of our City of Athens staff had attended that included municipalities from several states. As is always the case, there are excellent speakers who understand cities, and often have books for sale and the opportunity to speak with the author. This conference was no exception, and Mayor Ronnie was excited about our new book, especially because it had a forward written by Coach Nick Saban. It is called Believing Is Seeing: Ten Steps To A Mindset That Will Transform Your Direction And Your Life. We have no idea how many installments will comprise our latest personal development reading adventure, but Dr. Kevin Elko, who is a nationally renowned sports psychologist, had clearly inspired our mayor. Mayor Ronnie read to me from Coach Saban’s forward, and we got a chance to “see” inside the locker room after a defeat, something for which Coach Saban

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is not exactly famous for tolerating. Coach Saban tells his guys, “So what? Now what? We can do better.” I am looking forward to digging into this book, I must admit. Mayor Ronnie was sentimental about graduation having rolled around one more time, and way too quickly. “There are 22 seniors that are a part of the Youth Commission, and it’s hard to believe that they are graduating already,” he said. “We wish them the best of luck,” he added. He told me about a recent exercise in which the Youth Commission kids had been involved that had to do with figuring out how they were going to award a three-thousanddollar grant that they had received. It’s something they do every year. “When they first started the year, they would turn to us to see if they were doing it right, and now we just watch as they get it done,” he said. “There is such hope,” he said, “and we are seeing light at the end of the tunnel

when it comes to COVID.” Now that the Mayor’s Youth Commission has gone on for several years, the days of having all the kids invite the mayor to their graduation ceremony have been replaced in part by the kids sending out wedding invitations. “I hope they come back and be a part of things like Planapalooza, the Pilgrim’s Pride project, and will get involved,” he said. Speaking of Planapalooza, the mayor was encouraged by the updates he had received as of Monday, and participated in the last session on Wednesday evening. The previous Thursday had been the annual ceremony to honor law enforcement officers who have fallen in the line of duty. That is always sobering, and another soberingbut-hopeful event had been Relay for Life held on May 14.

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We talked about the upand-coming grand reopening and dedication of the Alabama Veterans Museum’s new location. “It is looking so good, and people have worked

hard to get it that way,” said the mayor. The time had flown, and it was time to pray, and then it was time for Ronnie to roll.”

May 21 - June 03, 2021

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From the Alabama Veterans’ Museum

Meet CW4 Stormy Ripley! by Sandra Thompson, Director, Alabama Veterans’ Museum

Meet Retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CW4) Stormy Sandi McLemore Ripley, born at Fort Rucker, Alabama, in 1962. When I asked about how she came to be known as “Stormy,” she said she was given the name Sandi at birth and went by it as a child. While in high school in Heidelberg, Germany, she played guitar and would sing the song “Stormy Monday” and the name Stormy just stuck. She legally changed it at age 19. Being an “Army brat,” Stormy grew up all over the place including Ft. Rucker, AL; White Sands, NM; Fort Benning GA; New Jersey; Kansas City; Florida; and Germany. She says that a strong family tradition is what turned her toward a military career: “I always wanted to join when I was a kid playing Army with the other military brats. I specifically wanted to join the Military Police when I was little, even before women were allowed in these career fields. I was told, ‘Girls can’t be MPs!’ I said, ‘Then I will be the first!’ By the time I joined the military police, there were already lots of women there, but not many in the combat support MP companies, so that is where I volunteered. I was also at Ft. Rucker as a kid in the early 70s when the first woman became an Army helicopter pilot.” Although she entered

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the Army as an enlisted soldier, Stormy quickly rose to the rank of E-6; she then decided to apply to Warrant Officer School and then Flight School. Right out of flight school as a Warrant Officer 1, she started flying the UH-1 Huey Helicopters and later transitioned to the UH-60 Blackhawk. She held a Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5) position when, after 27 years of service, she retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CW4.) Stormy had many memorable experiences in her long fascinating career that took her all over the world. She was sent to many different locations, including places like Yuma Proving Ground, AZ; Fort Bragg, NC; Fort Benning GA; Panama; Korea; Honduras; Egypt; and a 15-month deployment to Iraq. Some of the most memorable times include her first dispatch as a new MP when she was sent to get a herd of wild horses off the Post Headquarters lawn at Yuma Proving Ground, she ran from killer bees while on jungle patrol in Panama, and she even traveled to the White House to meet President Bush Sr. Her meeting with the president came about because of her participation in Operation Just Cause. Along with some fellow soldiers, they met with the president in his conference room, and then they got to travel to the

Pentagon where they met Arnold Schwarzenegger. All the soldiers wanted a picture with Arnold! Stormy also worked in Iraq with the Joint Personnel Recovery team to help find missing military and civilian government workers who had been taken by enemy forces or local kidnappers. She was assigned to the Joint Personnel Recovery Coordination Cell (PRCC) to help locate isolated, missing, detained, or captured (IMDC) personnel of all U.S. services,

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coalition forces, and contractors in country. There were more civilian contractors missing than military. As an Army wife, Stormy worked with the Family Readiness Group assisting family members of those soldiers killed in combat, she says “I remember watching a new military family move into our neighborhood and a Blue Star flag (indicating deployment) go up in their window. In the same month, the same window changed to a Gold Star flag (indicating a death while serving). Within a couple of months, it wasn’t long before the moving truck came and they were gone…” After retiring, Stormy volunteered with local veteran organizations in the North Alabama area and also volunteered at the Limestone County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) working with Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD.) In 2014, she was hired as Airfield Aviation and Safety Officer

at Ft. Bragg in NC. In 2019, she was hired at Redstone Army Airfield where she still works and she also assisted the Redstone Arsenal Emergency Management Operations to track COVID 19. She is still working there. Stormy is a member of AMVETS and a lifetime member of the VFW. She likes to stay plugged in with other veterans and be a part of veterans’ activities. Stormy would like to see more updates from Veterans Affairs on issues affecting retirees and perhaps reach out to widows of combat veterans and invite them to the Alabama Veterans Museum. She would also like to see younger veterans join our local service organizations. Stormy is married to Jim Ripley, who is a retired Green Beret. They have one son, Shane Ripley, who is 21 and works as a journeyman plumber in Huntsville. She is also the daughter of retired Army aviator, Col. Mel McLemore; her mother, Wanda McLemore, was the famous PEARL Safety model for the Army. She has one sister, Deborah McLemore, who works in logistics at Redstone Arsenal. Being musically inclined, Stormy has written a song, Defend Until The End, that you can hear at www.soundclick.com/ stormy or follow the link https://www.soundclick.com/artist/default. cfm?bandID=189319

May 21 - June 03, 2021

Slinkard On Success

“TODAY IS THE DAY!!!!” by D. A. Slinkard D.A. Slinkard would love your feedback. You can contact him at da.slinkard@gmail.com

Today is the day. This simple statement needs to be a constant reminder for you, for me, for everyone, as we start each day. When it comes to making the necessary changes in our lives, we need to live by this mantra. Today is the day I will stop putting off what I know I have needed to do, and I am just going to go do it. Today is the day. This sentence repeated over enough with the right amount of emphasis can change anyone’s life…and I do mean anyone. When I mention emphasis, I am talking about the words we are going to emphasize when we repeat this statement. We begin with the first word “today,” and remember that ALL CAPS signifies a form of yelling. And, yes, if I am something written in ALL CAPS, I am wanting you to be a little louder. Read the sentence again placing the proper emphasis where it is meant to be. TODAY is the day! Notice I added the exclamation point? That emphasis on the first word brought a little more excitement than just reading the sentence as someone with no purpose. Say the sentence again and again until you believe that TODAY is the day you stop making excuses. I want to turn our focus to the second word “is.” Read the sentence with the proper emphasis. Today IS the day! The

May 21 - June 03, 2021

did the exercise correctly then giving only one exclamation point would have been a fallacy. Repeat this sentence until you can hear the exclamation points oozing off your sentence. Put your emotions into it. Put your all-in-all into it when you say this sentence. Say it with some conviction. Say it with some pride. Say it with me now, “TODAY IS THE DAY!!!!”

word “is” that we are emphasizing becomes our doing word. Do not get me wrong, it was a verb before but now with the proper conviction behind the sentence, we now can actually do something with today. Repeat the sentence again and again until you believe that today IS the day you stop making excuses. Time to move to the third word of the sentence which is “the.” Go ahead and reread the sentence but this time we are going to move the proper emphasis to this word. Today is THE day! When the emphasis goes to “the,” this is signaling in our brain the specifics of what today is. Too often when we make the statement “Today is the day” without using any emphasis, we take a passive approach to this meaning that today is some day in the future but not actually today. Repeat the sentence again with the proper emphasis following our sentence structure. “Today is THE day!” Go ahead and keep saying this sentence to yourself until you believe that today is THE day you stop making excuses. We come to the last word in the sentence, and we see the word is “day.” Our emphasis gets moved along to the very end so repeat after me. Today is the DAY! Can you feel yourself starting to get fired up? Seriously? My fingers are starting to move faster and faster across

the keyboard with every stroke as I write this article because I am motivating myself that today is the DAY! Say the sentence again and again as if you mean it and until you believe that today is the DAY! So here we are, and you are thinking to yourself that that is all the words. The emphasis has been placed on each word. I feel different. I feel a little more motivated, but you might be thinking to yourself that you are not quite sure how long your

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motivation will last. Fair enough. Will you entertain me one more time as we go ahead and place our emphasis one more time throughout the sentence? This time instead of emphasizing just one word, we are going to emphasize every word. Remember what ALL CAPS means, so say this sentence like you mean it. “TODAY IS THE DAY!!!!” Did you notice the additional exclamation points? The reason being is because if you

In mere minutes you have been able to make a change in your thought process that is so vitally important to do every morning. You must decide what your day is going to be, and this article has given you the ingredients for changing your life where TODAY IS THE DAY you stop making excuses and change your life.

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Clean, Green And Beautiful

Athens-Limestone Recycling Center CLOSED the Week of May 24 by Leigh Patterson - Executive Director - Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful Looking back to March of 2020, who would have thought that we would still be suffering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic? But here we are in May of 2021, and things are still not quite back to normal. This rings true for many businesses and their day-to-day operations, and the AthensLimestone Recycling Center (a division of KALB) is no exception to this. The management and

staff have been running the center with less than half of the normal staff for over a year now. They are still unable to accept plastics for recycling due to the lack of staff. We hope to see this change in the coming months, but until then we keep pressing on as we have, providing these important services to Limestone County Residents. The staff have been unable to take vacation time over the last year. Because of this, the board

has made the decision that the Recycling Center will close the week of May 24, 2021, and they will be closed on Memorial Day (May 31) as well. Drop-off bins at the center will be removed promptly at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 29 and will not return until Tuesday, June 1 at 6:30 a.m. Out of respect for the staff, please hang on to your items until Tuesday, June. Please do not leave items at the center while closed. This is considered illegal dumping. As a reminder, items accepted during business hours include: flattened cardboard, office paper, magazines, junk mail, books, newspapers, aluminum, steel, glass bottles and jars (sorted by color), motor oil, cooking oil, and electronics. (There is a $10 fee for televisions.) Items NOT currently accepted include container plastics #1, #2, and #5. Items NEVER accepted include kiddie pools, pool liners, plastic lawn furniture, plastic toys, etc. Even though they may have a #2 or #5 on them, they are never recyclable at our facility. THANK YOU to everyone who has been supportive and appreciative of the services offered, and THANK YOU to those who

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recycle correctly! We hope to find some sort of normalcy soon! Earth Day & Outdoor EXPO and Guided Nature Walk Have Been Rescheduled For June 5! Due to poor weather conditions on Saturday, April 24, we had to postpone our Earth Day event and our guided walk at Marbut Bend. But we have rescheduled and on Saturday, June5, KALB will host our annual Earth Day and Outdoor EXPO from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Big Spring Memorial Park in Athens! We have so many fun things planned for this free event! ($1 suggested donation.) Steve Trash, Rockin’ Eco Hero, will perform his eco magic show three times. We are grateful to Limestone County Water and Sewer Authority for bringing Steve to our event! We will also have crafts, activities, exhibitors, and vendors with information and earth friendly products. Athens State University will host guided tree tours. Tiny Hiney’s Travelin’ Farm petting zoo will be there, thanks to Limestone Pediatric Dentistry. The Optimist

Club will be providing food for purchase. Carissa Lovvorn, local author, will be reading her new children’s book, Seeds for Sharing. Carissa’s daughter, Isabelle, will host her “Lemon Blessings” lemonade stand with all proceeds going to charity. We invite you to bring your whole family to enjoy this fun outdoor event!

KALB is also hosting a Guided Nature Walk at the Marbut Bend Walking Trail in West Limestone the morning of our Earth Day event. On Saturday, June 5, beginning at 8 a.m., we invite you to join Damien Simbeck from Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) on a fun and educational walk in this beautiful area. Damien is an expert on birds and other wildlife, along with the plants and trees that call Marbut Bend home. This 1.1-mile walk is an easy, flat, and A.D.A. accessible trail, and will last approximately 1 to 1 ½ hours, giving you plenty of time to make it to the Earth Day and Outdoor EXPO at 11 a.m.

We hope you will join us for a day of fun!

Become a Fan

(256) 233-8000 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com May 21 - June 03, 2021

Cooking with Anna

Wallpaper In The Hallway by Anna Hamilton

We live in a small house built in the early 1940s. Two bedrooms, one bath, and one tiny hallway. The hallway is almost a tiny square room itself; it almost doesn’t even count as a true hallway. I have been trying to convince my husband to let me hang some really funky wallpaper in this tiny space -- something with character, interesting, unique…. this idea has gone over like a lead balloon. To my husband’s defense, why would you spend money to decorate a hallway? Why spend money on a space in your home where you do not spend your time? These are both very valid points. I do not regularly sit in my hallway and ponder the great questions of life. I’ve never been to someone’s home and left thinking, “Man, that hallway was amazing!” Sometimes in life however, we find ourselves stuck in the hallway waiting for God to open a door. We are lost, confused, and stuck not knowing what our next move should be. Just an endless row of doors, locked, not opening for us. There have been times in my life that I felt as if I lived in the hallway. I mean, I had a full house in this hallway. Just stuck there admiring all the doors that were closed in front of me. Nothing seemed to be happening in my life. My friends were opening the doors to marriage, children, exciting careers… and here I was, stuck in the hallway. I could have just stayed in the hallway forever, sulking,

Blueberry Crumble

asking why nothing was happening for me. I could have ripped doors open that weren’t meant for me and ended up miserable and more lost than before. Or, I could have decided to thank God for the hallway and know that when I was ready, He would open the right door for me. I decided to wait, and God has opened the most wonderful doors. More wonderful than I could have ever imagined for myself. There is a quote by Nicky Gumbel that fits this perfectly, “Until God opens the next door, praise Him in the hallway.” How wonderful! Praise Him while you wait. If you are praising God while you wait, you will learn to love the hallway. It is a place that God uses to prepare you for great things. Love your hallway, put the funky wallpaper up if you want! Praise Him and get ready for your next great door to open. He is working on something great for your life. This week’s recipe is a bit different. I don’t normally do a lot of dessert recipes, but this one seems to be perfect for this time of year. My parent’s have blueberry bushes, and they are always the best in the world! This recipe is an easy, sweet dessert featuring blueberries. I hope you enjoy it! “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31

Ingredients: ¾ cup old-fashioned oats ¼ cup whole-wheat flour 1 tsp ground cinnamon 2 Tbsp pure maple syrup 1 ½ Tbsp butter, melted 6 cups blueberries 3 Tbsp cornstarch

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F and coat an 8”-square pan with nonstick cooking spray. To prepare the topping, whisk together the oats, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Make a well in the center. Pour in the maple syrup and melted butter. Stir until fully incorporated. To prepare the filling, toss the blueberries with the cornstarch in a large bowl until completely coated.

May 21 - June 03, 2021

Transfer the filling to the prepared pan, and sprinkle evenly with the topping. (The topping tends to clump, so break it into small pieces.) Bake at 350°F for 45-55 minutes or until the juice is bubbling at the sides of the pan. Cool completely to room temperature; then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving to allow the juices to fully thicken.

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Page 13

Steve’s Corner

They Are Free! by Steve Leland

In fact, not only are they free but the more of them that you give away, the greater will be your supply.

And then there are those days when it seems like you couldn’t produce one to save your life.

In my opinion, the smile is absolute proof that we were created. The ability that we have to alter someone else’s mood by a particular form of grimace can only have been gifted to us by our Creator.

The other day I was told that the fact that I had smiled at a cashier had brightened her entire day. People had been, drip by drip, sharing a bit of negativity with her. Many not in all that bad of a mood, mostly just harried, but the cumulative effect was weighing her down. And then there were the ones in a truly bad

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mood. So it all was stealing her joy, but just a smile and being treated kindly brought restoration to her soul. Something that I was totally oblivious of at the time.

treating them in a way that I wouldn’t want to be treated. How often is my perception of their mood skewed? That I am actually contributing to negativity when I think that I am only responding in kind?

I am reminded of the Butterfly Effect (where the stirring of the air by the flight of a butterfly can have a ripple effect and the progression of disturbances can cause a hurricane on the other side of the world). Hopefully she was able to pass that smile on.

As they say, sewage flows downhill. We must be careful about what we contribute to. What effect has wearing masks had on us as a people? Fewer smiles being expressed or perceived? Maybe if you are in a sour mood it is a positive thing?

The idea of matching the other person’s energy is something that is taught in sales. It is meant to be a positive thing, but all too often I find myself responding with less than positive energy when I am feeling negative vibes from the other person. I am making the mistake of

What effect has it had on the development of infants and toddlers to not be exposed to as many facial expressions as they normally would have been? When you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours! It’s free, after all.

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May 21 - June 03, 2021

Cover Story

Save June 5 For The 3rd Annual Addiction Eviction Rally by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

Another feature of the Addiction Eviction Rally is the scholarship program. A couple of them are named after kids who died tragically, Cameron Richardson and Kolter Williams. The scholarships go to things like registration fees for Athens Parks and Recreation events and teams, and this year three students will have the fees for taking their ACT exams covered by the scholarship fund.

help that truly helps. Addiction Eviction is the “baby” of Lori Masonia, who is very transparent about her lifelong battle and subsequent victory over addiction. Much of Lori's fight came as a result of intensely destructive relationships. As is often the case, Lori’s battle started after having been abused by a trusted authority figure, and over time, the damage it caused nearly resulted in her attempting suicide. Lori is the founder of Ride With Me Addiction/Street Ministry and has, over the last several years, had the great pleasure of helping others from the standpoint of “no judgment” mixed with, “Are you ready to do what it takes to become free?” If the answer is “yes,” then this rally will be staffed with people who are ready, willing, able, and equipped to help. Addiction can easily lead to homelessness, and homelessness to hopelessness. The answer is not a handout, but a “hand given” to people who are willing to do the hard work of recovery that lasts. In addition, having the chance to celebrate that hard work as well as to pray for the families that have been affected by this plague is an important part of the gathering. Lori told me, “If you or someone you know needs prayer, we will have prayer walls. We will also have luminarias (the bags that hold candles) that you can decorate to honor those who are in the fight,

May 21 - June 03, 2021

or to remember those that were lost to it,” she said. As sobering as it is to talk about this undeniably large problem, the rally is not going to be a “downer” at all. Lori wanted to emphasize how businesses, churches, and individuals are lending strong support in a number of ways. “Everything is free,” she said, and added that the big rule is that politics won’t be a part of it. There will be hot dogs, hamburgers, and drinks. Texas Roadhouse out of Florence is donating food, and Walgreens is giving cases of water. Refuge Church is giving 75 boxes of food. Toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, and other toiletries are going to be available. Addiction can harm the children of addicts, and there will be new clothes for 60 kids along with school supplies. Anyone who has ever been involved either with street ministry, homeless ministry, addiction ministry, or all three will be quick to

tell you that a rally of this scope does not come together without an amazing amalgamation of genuine miracles and “the kindness of strangers.” One of Lori’s many stories of community support comes from the dental offices of Limestone Smiles. Besides donating toothbrushes and toothpaste, they have decided to do a complete “smile restoration,” which is worth several thousand dollars. People who have lost their teeth are often very uncomfortable when it comes to socializing, applying for a job, or getting a job. Dr. Treyla Dutton of Limestone Smiles gave Lori an assignment when she called to tell Lori of their decision: “I need a winner, an appointment, a mold, and we’ve got it from there.” Happy tears were shed, and no doubt will be once again when a new smile, and a restored life move toward wholeness.

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The Thrive Mobile will be there at 1 p.m. to conduct free HIV and Hepatitis C testing, along with rapid COVID testing. Representatives from several rehab centers will be on hand for people who are ready to make the change and do what’s necessary to get clean, sober, and build a

new life. This non-denominational event will have music, testimonies, good food, good times, and a chance to help as well as to be helped. Lori puts it so well when she says, “Love is what love does!” Come on out on June 5 and find out just what that means for you, your family, and all of Athens-Limestone.

Addiction Eviction Rally

Swan Creek Park 98 US Highway 31 S, Athens, AL 35611 Saturday, June 5, 2021 at 11 AM CDT – 7 PM CDT Facebook: Lori Suzannah Masonia or Ride With Me Addiction Support

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Health and Fitness

Back To Basics – Salt by Nick Thomas, owner of Prime Performance Training, and Certified Sports Nutritionist

The amount of salt intake for Americans is astronomical each day without even picking up a salt shaker. In our current society, it is especially easy to overdo this due to so many highly processed, pre-packaged foods, and how much is eaten from drive-thrus and restaurants. The average American consumes roughly 3,500 milligrams of sodium every day according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, it is recommended to keep sodium intake between 1,500 and 2,300 milligrams a day. This provides a lower risk for high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems. There are a few ways to manage sodium intake -- from what type of salt is used to how it is used; because despite all of the negatives, sodium is actually necessary for the body to function at its best.

Moderation is key when it comes to salt intake. Cooking at home the majority of the time makes it easier to achieve moderation. Using all natural, fresh whole foods in cooking and truly embrace cooking from “scratch,” gives total control over what goes in the body. There is no need to sacrifice the flavor of salt and how it enriches the taste of food which is so enjoyable, but it is important to make the best choice in the quality of salt used in order to get the most

benefit possible. There are many different salts that have high mineral content and reduced sodium content, but when taking availability and cost into consideration, I recommend pink sea salt. By using pink sea salt instead of the many other varieties available, especially traditional table salt, it will greatly decrease the sodium while still achieving the flavor. Pink sea salt is extremely rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. It

also contains trace amounts of copper, iodine, zinc and selenium. These minerals all benefit the body, in addition to the sodium. Pink sea salt can be found at most any grocery store now and comes in a variety of forms from large blocks to be grated at use, to smaller coarse grains, and fine granules. All shapes and sizes have the same benefits; it is just personal preference as to what is used. Another way to cut back on salt and not sacrifice flavor is

to use more fresh herbs and spices. Herbs such as rosemary, sage, thyme, black pepper, and oregano have great antioxidants, which is an added bonus. It is best to avoid prepackaged seasoning mixes as they tend to have added sodium and preservatives. Get creative and really enjoy the simplicity of using herbs and all natural, whole foods when cooking. Try new combinations and think outside the box. Healthy food does not have to be bland or boring!

The correct amount of sodium helps maintain the balance of fluids in the body and is also a huge factor in muscle function. Sodium makes sweat possible which is what allows the body to cool down avoiding dehydration and heat stroke. If enough salt is not consumed, things such as muscle spasms, irregular heart rhythms, and general weakness can occur.

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May 21 - June 03, 2021

PlayAction Sports

Spring Sports Update by Tim Lambert

Tune in for the PlayAction Sports Update, three times each weekday on 1080 AM WKAC. Visit us online at www.pasnetwork.net! email: playactionsports@hotmail.com

Ardmore announced Jonathan Snider as their new football coach, replacing P.J. Wright, who resigned to take over at St. Clair County. Snider has been the defensive coordinator at Athens High School. The Golden Eagles also have new basketball coaches: Danny Anderson will take over the boys' team. Anderson played at Elkmont and coached at Fort Payne, Deshler, Clements, Guntersville, and Hazel Green. Capriee Tucker will head up the Athens girls' team. She had been an assistant at Hazel Green before her most recent post as head coach at James Clemens, where she will remain until the end of the school year. James Clemens's Aaron Boone signed a football scholarship with Faulkner. Kaleb Green and Brody Davis inked basketball scholarships with Birmingham Southern. Athens High's Caroline Bachus was picked for the North Girls' All-Star basketball roster and West Limestone's Justin Taylor will coach the boys' team. Athens High's Emily Simon was named to the North All-Star softball team. Elkmont's Mary Jane Hobbs will serve as a coach. Tanner’s Manuel Felipe was also selected for the North All-Star Boys’ soccer team. The North-South All Star games will be played during All-Star Sports Week in July. Spring sports highlights:

James Clemens 2-11, Austin 8-0

Elkmont VG 10, Mae Jemison 0.

James Clemens 8, Bob Jones 4

Elkmont VG 2, Tanner 0 James Clemens VB 2, Austin 0

James Clemens 2-12, Bob Jones 6-9 Lindsay Lane 8, Randolph 7 West Limestone 6, Elkmont 1 Playoff round 1 Lindsay Lane 10-6, Shoals Christian 0-4 West Limestone 11-6, Priceville 4-2 Ardmore 5-6, Guntersville 0-5

James Clemens cheerleaders won the UCA national championship in the varsity non-building game day category. The squad also finished second in Super Varsity Division 1. (Courtesy photo)

Area tournaments ABS 8, Decatur Heritage 3; Skyline 8, ABS 0; ABS 3, Decatur Heritage 2; Skyline 12, ABS 3

Elkmont 8-3-8, Sylvania 3-8-10

Ardmore 15, Mae Jemison 0; Ardmore 8, East Limestone 1; Ardmore 9, East Limestone 0

Covenant Christian 11-14, ABS 5-4

Athens 1, Columbia 0; Athens 4, Hazel Green 2

Playoff round 2

Colbert Heights 16, Clements 1

Lindsay Lane 2-2-1, Donoho 1-3-5 West Limestone 0-5-9, Hamilton 2-1-10 Ardmore 3-6-2, Alexandria 0-12-11 Softball ABS 13, Lindsay Lane 3 Ardmore 16, West Limestone 2 Ardmore 9, East Limestone 0 (Limestone County tournament finals) Athens 8, Russellville 3 Athens 11, Lauderdale County 0 Athens 9, Austin 5 East Limestone 15, ABS 4

Baseball

East Limestone 13, Lee 2

ABS 10, Whitesburg Christian 7

East Limestone 6, Elkmont 4

Ardmore 13, Lindsay Lane 6

West Limestone 13, Elkmont 3

May 21 - June 03, 2021

Elkmont VG 6, Lawrence County 2

East Limestone 13, Lee 13

Tanner 12, Mae Jemison 0

East Limestone 15, Lee 0; East Limestone 15, Lee 0 Elkmont 14, Clements 4; Lauderdale County 12, Elkmont 3; Elkmont 4, Colbert Heights 0; Elkmont 6, Lauderdale County 2 Lindsay Lane 17, Woodville 7; Skyline 10, Lindsay Lane 0; Decatur Heritage 10, Lindsay Lane 6 James Clemens 10, Austin 7; Bob Jones 6, James Clemens 1 West Limestone 8, Priceville; West Morgan 3, West Limestone 0; West Limestone 3, Priceville 1 Regional tournaments Ardmore 10, Russellville 1; Ardmore 8, Corner 4; Hayden 12, Ardmore 0; Ardmore 4, Corner 3

10, Scottsboro 5; Athens 19, Cullman 4; Athens 5, Hartselle 1 West Point 10, East Limestone 4; East Limestone 13, Guntersville 3; Corner 8, East Limestone 7 Waterloo 8, ABS 2; Lynn 1, ABS 0

James Clemens VB 1, Sparkman 1 James Clemens VG 2, Sparkman 0 Tanner VB 10, East Lawrence 0 Tanner VB 11, ABS 1 Tanner VB 1, Whitesburg Christian 0 Tanner VB 6, Elkmont 2 Playoff round 1 Tanner VB 3, Danville 2

Sparkman 9, James Clemens 8; Huntsville 15, James Clemens 3

Grissom VB 5, James Clemens 0

Plainview 12, Elkmont 2; Elkmont 10, Holly Pond 0; Elkmont 5, Lauderdale County 2; Fyffe 9, Elkmont 1

Playoff round 2

West Limestone 11, Madison Academy 11-2; Brooks 3, West Limestone 1; Rogers 2, West Limestone 0 Soccer Athens VB 6, Columbia 1 Athens VG 2, Florence 1 Clements VB 4, ABS 0 Clements VB 5, Lawrence County 0 Clements VB 4, East Lawrence 1 Elkmont VB 6, Priceville 3 Elkmont VB 4, Ardmore 3 Elkmont VB 11, ABS 1

Sparkman VG 2, James Clemens 1 Collinsville VB 4, Tanner 3 Golf State championship (second day cancelled) Jackson Mitchell (James Clemens) - third in 7A boys Luke Davis (ABS) - tied for third in 1A-2A boys Chloe Ruble (Lindsay Lane) - third in 1A-3A girls Track and field State meet winners Class 1A-3A: Lindsay Lane's Sydney Perkins (1600, 3200m), Whitney Prise-Cook (100m hurdles); Athens Bible School’s Jack Bradford (800m)

Athens 14, Fort Payne 6; Hartselle 7, Athens 5; Athens

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Learning As A Lifestyle

The Art And Science Of Communication by Eric Betts Assistant Director, Curtis Coleman Center for Religious Studies and Ethics at Athens State University The ability to communicate effectively is a priceless talent. In order to build strong relationships and teams, the art and science of communication must either be innate in the leader or learned through education. One cannot lead effectively or at all if communication skills are poor. Many relationships, teams, and marriages are broken due the inability to communicate well. Relationships are invaluable when it comes to fulfilling one’s vision or mission. It always takes more than the talent and skill of one person to make an impact. It takes a group working together, and that group’s success depends largely on communication. It is often said that the majority of communication is nonverbal, most of which is body language. John Maxwell, the leadership guru, has written extensively on the subject of communication. The title of one of his books is very instructive on its own. It is entitled, Everyone Communicates, Few Connect. The implication of the title is that in order to really communicate, one must first learn to connect to the hearer. Maxwell explained what he meant when he said. “People may hear your words but feel your attitude.” It can be said that body language and tone can speak louder than words. Additionally, people can sense if they are being manipulated even through the kindest of words.

as extremely flattering, and the hearer may get the sense that they are being flattered for reasons that may make them uncomfortable. When it comes to trying to critique a person’s work, they can get a sense as to whether the speaker is attempting to help them or put them in their place. The speaker may not connect with the hearer because the hearer can get the sense that the speaker is simply seeking to promote themselves instead of serving the interests of the larger group. The hearer can also receive nonverbal clues that the speaker doesn’t think very well of them and in fact despises them. If a leader is indeed interested in the success of the organization and the individuals which constitute that entity, it must be understood that communication is a two-way street.

The communicator must also be a great listener. Maxwell says, “If you’re going to connect, people need to know that you understand them.” When one learns to be an effective listener, it helps when it is their turn to communicate. Maxwell expands on the idea that there is a level of communication that is nonverbal. Every leader needs to understand those levels. Maxwell encourages to “be sure your communication goes beyond words. How can you do that? By connecting on four levels: visually, intellectually, emotionally, and verbally.” It is important also for leaders to be aware of the role that their personality plays in communication. Sometimes one’s background and personality can impact the tone and tenor of how something is communi-

cated. A great leader will know how he or she sounds to their listeners. It is not good enough to declare that this is your personality and everyone else just has to deal with it. Understand the strengths and weaknesses of your speech patterns and how it plays with the larger group. It may not always require that a dramatic change occur, but awareness is key. Maxwell identifies five areas of your voice that you must be mindful of as a leader. Your personal success and the success of the group may be affected by those five areas. What are they? “Tone, inflection, timing, volume, pacing -- everything you do with your voice communicates something and has the potential to help you connect to or disconnect from others when you speak.” The most difficult time to communicate is when a

project hits a wall or team chemistry breaks down. There are certain rules to follow in such settings that will help communicate between parties and guide the group through the conflict.

The road to success as a leader largely depends on how one masters nonverbal communication. Body language is everything. How something is said is just as important as what is said. Sometimes body language can speak louder than words. Finally, learning to be a great listener is vital to the success of a team leader. When one gains the reputation of being a good listener, the team is more inclined to be good hearers. They don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. Y This builds chemistry for t m future success. d o c t

H a c p

Words can come across

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A i h a a i m t B w n b p l W s t t a a n n c l

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May 21 - June 03, 2021

The View From The Bridge

Chapter 21- Lessons For Life by Jackie Warner Career Development Facilitator

Although many states, including Alabama, have opened to business as usual, the numbers are still woefully alarming, and unfortunately, many countries are shutting down once again! Be alarmed and stay woke! It is not back to normal, nor will it ever be business as was our past normal. There were lessons to be learned. We have left 2020 and stepped into 2021 for those of us still here by the Grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and reverting to our old normal for missed economic growth and more complacency are not our lessons learned. Yes, many have received their vaccinations, but many more have either decided to wait a while or, without a doubt, decided it just was not for them. Here are the numbers as of May 12, 2021, according to Alabama Department of Health: COVID-19 Cases -531,751 COVID-19 Deaths -10,997 COVID-19 Hospitalizations (as of May 11) -- 49,342 Vaccine Doses Delivered to Alabama -4,092,375 Vaccine Doses Administered -2,703,330

May 21 - June 03, 2021

“Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters

What lessons have you written in your Chapter 21? • Accept that nothing is constant • Family means more than you thought. Do not take them for granted • Self-care is not selfishness; it is essential to mental wellness • Technology is important: Learn it, leverage it, and then pivot with it • Stay present -- wake up! • Read more -- money can only take you so far • Have a home survival kit ready, just in case, for the next pandemic • Make room in your life for the unknown -- no matter where you think you are • We have too much clutter and stuff just taking up space in our lives… it is time to unpack! • Live and love your truth intentionally Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional Email: thebridge.us@ gmail.com Check out upcoming events: Website: http://thebridge-us. yolasite.com/

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Page 19

Horse Whispering

Unstoppable by Deb Kitchenmaster With newspaper in hand, my attention was on the section ‘HORSES FOR SALE.’ This particular ad read ‘professionally trained bay gelding for sale.’ My curiosity galloped into the arena of several questions and wonderings, so I called for details on getting to the stable to have a moment with the horse face to face. What I discovered during groundwork is that this horse did not know the meaning of ‘Whoa.’ How important is that? Pretty. Yes, it is pretty darn important to know the meaning of the word ‘Whoa.’ I am grateful I discovered this on the ground rather than on the back of the horse which I did mount. Let’s start with groundwork. I prefer the horse to move freely (without halter, lead, or lunge line) while in a roundpen environment. I use my body mostly and my voice seldom to communicate with the horse. In conscious awareness of being single-minded (not double), I say ‘Whoa,’ with my tone and body language communicating that all four hooves are to stop moving. All four! When that happens, I pause (drop my energy) removing all pressure and attention off of horse. This instant reward is communicating with the horse an accurate response to what I am asking. Depending on the mindset of the horse, I will continue at liberty or I will halter the horse using the lead rope to communicate whoa. Important:

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‘Whoa’ ALWAYS means ‘Whoa.’ Not slow down! ‘Whoa’ ALWAYS means each and every time all four hooves must come to a standstill. ALWAYS! And one more thing -you say ‘Whoa’ ONE time not several and not in a high tone but in tenor or bass tones (from your belly not your throat). Every individual needs to know how to stop the horse they are riding. Horses are like a Volkswagen; their motors are in the rear end. They carry the bulk of their weight on their front legs, while their back legs and rump act as a motor that drives them forward. A horse can feel a fly on their backs, so they very much respond to a shift of weight in the bareback pad or saddle. When you

want to ask your horse to stop, you will be shifting the weight of your body deep into the saddle. Keep your shoulders straight and lean back. Visualize your rear end as a deflated basketball sinking right down into the saddle. Your horse will feel the shift in weight. In rhythm with your body, you will also use your hands and your feet to further communicate ‘stop’ to your horse. With the balls of your feet in the stirrups, you will bring your feet forward to brace yourself for the stop. Having both hands on the reins, pull back toward your belly button. Keep your hands low. You want to use the least amount of force to bring your horse to a stop. Please do NOT jerk or yank on your horse’s

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mouth as this brings much pain and discomfort to your horse. Use a firm yet gentle hand to pull on the reins while asking your horse to stop. If the horse does not respond, increase the pressure on the reins until your horse comes to a complete stop. Keep your hands low as you are pulling your reins towards your bellybutton. Repeat: Keep your weight shifted back toward the horse’s rump, shoulders back, heels down, and feet forward to brace for the stop. Don’t lean forward. When your horse has come to a complete stop, release the pressure on the reins. Well done! Have you ever been on a runaway? I have. What do you do? First of all, relax. Then connect with the emergency brake

that each horse has. The emergency brake is the one-rein stop. Drop one rein and grab the other rein with both hands. Reach one hand down the rein so that you can get good leverage. Bring the rein back to your hip, causing the horse’s nose to tilt back to your knee if you’re sitting in the saddle. Hold this position until your horse comes to a complete stop.

T a c e R v

I r Let your ‘Whoa’ be whoa l and your ‘go’ be go. c a Your NEIGHbor, T Deb Kitchenmaster t Corral Connections m 256-426-7947 s Animal B.E.S.T. practitioner p horsinaround188@gmail.com a e

May 21 - June 03, 2021

Mental Health Minute

The Cycle of Sexual Abuse by Lisa Philippart, Licensed Professional Counselor “I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to become.” - C.G. Jung Trigger warning: This article contains sexual content that may cause emotional distress. Reader discretion is advised. I was asked the question recently, “Do you believe that sexually abused children grow up to have abusive relationships?” The answer to this question is, of course, much more complex than a simple yes or no. People who were sexually abused in childhood often engage in abusive relationships as adults, yes. They might repeatedly find themselves in adult relationships where they are victimized physically,

emotionally, or sexually. Some even become abusive themselves. It may be difficult to understand why someone who was sexually abused in childhood would “choose” to engage in an abusive relationship again. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why sexually abused children grow up to have abusive relationships in adulthood. If the connection between abuse and “love” is made early in life, the feelings of shame and anger (which naturally happen as a consequence of the abuse) can become mixed up with sexual feelings, leading to confusion in the person who experienced the abuse. The feelings might be interpreted as feelings of love and passion. Consequently, people who have been abused may not realize that other healthier

ways of feeling love in relationships are possible. This forms the belief in the abused that what they are feeling is attraction or affection for the abuser, leading to feelings of intimacy associated with the abuse. When this is imprinted at an early age, and the abused later becomes involved in adult intimate relationships, they perceive the familiar feelings of shame and anger as love and passion. The sexually abused child as an adult may make an attempt to heal, taking the opposite, seemingly more powerful position by actually becoming the abuser. By engaging in a relationship with another abuser, they can try to relive the relationship (with the original abuser) in the hope that they can get it right this time. As you might expect, people who were abused as children

may believe, on some deep level, that they are not “good enough” to deserve a genuinely loving relationship. They feel damaged and may have even been convinced by their abuser that they deserved the abuse. Strange as it may seem, people who were abused may counteract the feelings of inadequacy by believing they are better than others. They may have trouble respecting others as equals, making it hard to enter into a mutually loving, respectful relationship. By becoming an abuser, someone who has been abused can play the role of the more powerful person in the relationship in an attempt to overcome the powerlessness felt during the initial abuse. People who have been abused generally carry a lot of anger about what happened to them, and

abuse can be a way to express that anger. Even if they have pushed that anger out of their consciousness, it can emerge in subtle or not-so-subtle ways in both the intimate relationships and parenting styles. If abuse and hurt feels inevitable, those who have been abused may view sexual relationships as “predatory” and try to hurt before being hurt. Because abuse is so painful, some abused children and adults may cope by retreating into themselves through creating a fantasy world or dissociating. This may include idealizing the abuser, or abusing as a result of the overwhelming disappointment they feel when they can’t possibly live up to the fantasy. And lastly, when children are traumatized through sexual abuse, they may associate or confuse the intensity of the situation/person with pleasure. As a result, they may be attracted to abusive individuals and highrisk activities in order to feel that pleasure.

If you are struggling with the trauma of childhood sexual abuse, please seek counseling. There are trained professionals who can help you to work through your pain.

Lisa Philippart is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who divides her time between her own private practice in Huntsville and providing personal counseling services at Athens State University.

May 21 - June 03, 2021

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Page 21

The Alternative Approach

The Silica Secret by Roy Williams

In the Bible, we learn that God created man from the dust of the earth. Ever wondered what dust actually is? After talking to a natural medicine expert, I learned that dust is a mineral called silica. Silica is one of the trace minerals that is in sand, crystals, and some foods such as brown rice, cabbage, whole wheat, and one of the best sources for consumption is sugarcane. At one time, the state with the least cavities, tooth loss, receding gums, and gum disease was Hawaii. In fact, gum disease and tooth decay were so non-existent that there were practically no dentists in that state. What was the secret? Almost the entire population chewed on sugarcane which is very high in silica. Unfortunately, when it comes to the foods that are high in silica, such as those mentioned above, the absorption rate is so small that you would have to eat those foods with at least two meals every day just to get the amount your body requires. As a result, almost every American is deficient.

What does a silica deficiency look like? There are eleven levels of deficiency. A zero means you have no deficiency at all. Level 1 – 5 deficiencies can cause hair loss, weak or brittle fingernails, and thinning of the skin to receding gums, tooth decay, varicose veins, spider veins, joint tenderness, and arthritis. With levels 6 to 11, your health is severely compromised, which may include irregular heartbeat, extreme fatigue, cognitive disorders, and autoimmune issues including psoriasis, Crohn’s, rheumatoid arthritis, and even Hashimoto disease. In order to help address a silica deficiency, some people choose supplements like horsetail. The problem is absorption. Most studies show that only about one percent of any of those supplements are actually utilized by the human body. That means you would have to take 100 tablets or capsules to absorb just one. Back in 1958, a company called Positive Power Nutritionals developed a liquid called Super Silica, that when added to water delivers 60 times more silica at a cellular

unchecked calcium, our brain becomes rigid.

level than any other silica product on the market. After 63 years, Super Silica is still their numberone selling product and for good reason. Drinking at least a halfgallon of water every day is now recognized as a must do for anyone wishing to maintain hydration; support softer, healthier skin; and help with detoxification. Using Super Silica is as simple as putting 12 drops in 16 ounces of clean water four times a day to support better health. It gives your water a really clean, refreshing taste almost like drinking water with a squeeze of lemon added. Burt Golding has become a regular on our radio show called Today’s Health Update, which

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can be heard on WKAC 1080 AM Monday – Friday from 9:00 to 9:30 a.m. in the Athens area and on WBTG 106.3 FM from noon to 12:30 p.m. in the Shoals. Burt is the go-to man when it comes to Super Silica, with over 20 years’ experience. To hear him talk about this life-changing product, simply go to www. nhcherbs.com and scroll down to the microphone and click on the program titled Silica. In today’s world, many people are suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia, bipolar disorder, and other cognitive disease. One of the problems with brain function is flexibility. As we age and are exposed to heavy metals such as aluminum and

Think of a jellyfish swimming in the ocean. It moves and pulsates in order to travel. A healthy brain functions in much the same way. Yes, believe it or not your brain must pulsate in order to function as God intended. Without enough silica, the brain, just like arteries, can become rigid, which leads to many diseaserelated problems. The same is true of ligaments, tendons, and joints in the body. When those parts of the body become rigid you will experience inflammation and pain called arthritis. It is now well understood that following the instructions given above, your silica levels will increase fast enough to reverse the deficiency by one level each month. In other words, if you are a level 5 with wrinkles, weak fingernails, and hair loss, it may take five months to acquire enough silica to reverse those symptoms. By supporting your health at a cellular level with Super Silica, you can be confident that your body can and will over time heal itself. To learn more, go by Herbs & More in Athens or NHC Herb Shop in Killen and get the free CD called The Silica Secret. Your Friend in Health, Roy P. Williams

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Special Feature

A Small Kindness Can Change a Life by Mae Lewis Dad had been missing for over a month.

green one at the very end by the alley.”

This is what I knew: 1) He had been homeless for over a year. 2) He was living in a tent in Los Angeles (several states away from any family). 3) He had no phone and there was no way to contact him.

I promised him I would get him on a bus back home.

I suspected that Dad was suffering from early dementia or some type of mental illness, and I was extremely concerned for his safety and dreading the call that I knew would inevitably come. One night in April, I received a phone call at 1 a.m. from Cedar Sinai Emergency. I braced myself. He had been beaten up, but was okay, and was being discharged to go back to this tent. I talked to him briefly. He sounded like he was dying. He said, “Please come get me.”

As soon as I could, I called a contact in Los Angeles. “Dan” had been a friend of my father’s, and he knew the gravity of the situation. He immediately cleared his busy schedule, and then spent the day driving to the “green tent” to find Dad and put him on a Greyhound. Except when he got to the tent, Dad wasn’t there. This had been my fear. Dan continued to search the area, knowing that his efforts were probably futile. I knew he would give up at a certain point, and I felt defeated. I worried for

his safety. Then my phone rang and a woman spoke. “My name is Susan. I’m at a bus stop on Hollywood Blvd with your dad. He seems confused, but he said he is supposed to be getting on a bus today?” She explained to me that she had been getting ready to run some errands while her car was in a nearby shop... and had struck up a conversation with my dad. Since he didn’t have a phone, she had kindly placed the call to me. I was elated and thankful. I told Susan we had been looking for him, and if she could just tell him to STAY THERE, a friend would be along shortly to pick him up. I knew that Dan would make ev-

ery effort to get to Dad quickly, but Dan was also 45 minutes away. I knew from experience that dad would probably wander off long before Dan got there. The fear must have been in my voice because she didn’t even pause and said, “You know, I’m not really doing anything important right now. Why don’t I go sit with him until his friend gets there? That way he isn’t alone.” I cried tears of gratitude. Even as I write this, I am crying with thankfulness over Susan’s small kindness. Susan met a homeless man at a bus stop on Hollywood Blvd. She struck up a conversation, and then placed a phone call for him. Then she sat with him for 45 minutes so that he wouldn’t be

alone, or wander off, until someone could bring him home. Little kindnesses affect other’s lives in ways we can’t possibly comprehend. I pray that God blesses Susan for her small sacrifice that day. Maybe she wanted to do some shopping or visit a nail salon, but her time with my dad that day changed the trajectory of his life. Dan did get to Dad, Greyhound got him back to his home state, and Dad is getting back on his feet. This story might have had a tragic ending but because of Susan, I can have hope for a better one. Susan, wherever you are, thank you and God bless you!

I was on the other side of the country. I knew that even if I could manage to make arrangements to fly to LA to get him, I could be too late. Dad had disappeared before, and I had no guarantee that wouldn’t happen again. Time was of the essence if I was going to get him home. The nurse conveyed detailed directions: “The corner of Durango and Venice Blvd... but not THAT corner... two blocks north of that. Next to the Sprouts, on the right side, there are six tents. His is the

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