January 2 2015

January 2 - 15, 2015

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

Special Feature Lu Lu’s Place: The Legend Keeps On Cookin’...

In January of 2014, readers of Athens Now were given some good news in the form of an article on Lu Lu’s Place, letting folks know... Page 5

Jerry’s Journals On The Possum’s Trail With Jimmie “Two Hills”...

Jimmie and I were off on another big adventure. We had given up our search for the gravesite of...

Page 8

Medical Update What You Can Do To Fight The Flu...

It’s that time of year again: the dreaded flu season. We’ve all heard the stories on the news of the...

Page 23

January 2 - January 15, 2015

Athens SportsFit: More Than A Place To Lift Weights, It’s A Community

By Jonathan Henderson The 2015 year will bring more than a clean slate, it will offer 365 days of opportunity to help you reach your fitness and health goals. SportsFit of Athens wants to assist in putting those goals into action! Over 200 fitness classes are offered each

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month in its 24-hour fitness facility. It maintains an indoor pool, whirlpool and sauna, with free childcare included and tanning available. In addition, there are personal trainers on site and we utilize Cybex equipment. SportsFit has the tools to help accomplish your goals for the New Year.

Continued on pages 16-17

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January 2 - January 15, 2015

Publisher’s Point

A Look At The New Library

Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

patrons knew it couldn’t be helped.

Sales

Deborah Huff

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Delivery

Hunter Williams

Contributing Writers Shelley Underhill Wanda Campbell Janet Hunt Teresa Todd Joel Allen Brian Black Lynne Hart Rachel Clark, RN, BSN Jerry Barksdale Jonathan Henderson

For years the old Kroger building sat on a slight rise near the creek on the East side of South Jefferson Street in Athens. While not quite an eyesore, it was the equivalent of a battleship in dry dock with no funding to restore it and return it to sea. If a building could look “lonely,” it did, and was a continual reminder of a bygone day when groceries and foodstuffs were procured there in abundance. Those days are unequivocally over, and the result of public and private funding has afforded us a beautiful building that, especially at night, looks like its own “city set on a hill.”

The new library has the Claborne Children’s room where kids can go to learn how to be quiet in a library as well as attend presentations just for them. The teen room is apparently going to have some pretty impressive electronic equipment, and it will be interesting to see how that works out in the scheme of the desire to have adolescents becoming enamored with actual it is still in good shape, your charge will be $5. This is a bargain, and if you are an “overdue offender,” you definitely need to take the deal that’s on the table!

The “soft opening” of the facility was on Monday, December 29th, and while there are still some books to be shelved, kinks to be worked out, and hopefully spots of interior color to be added, the building is a sunny place to indulge in research or reading for pleasure in one of the niches near the windows.

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 6 Jerry’s Journal . . . . . . . . . . 8 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Clean and Green . . . . . . . . 12 Cooking with Shelley . . . . . . 13 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 14 Cover Story . . . . . . . . . 16 & 17 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . 18 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 19 Dog Barker . . . . . . . . . 20

Some might think it is “too big and fancy for Athens,” but I have a feeling that with the growth that is occurring in our city and county, it is not going to be long before we will fill out the 10,000 square foot facility. I remember being invited as an author to speak to the Book Club at the old library, and felt decidedly uncomfortable that my presentation would be perceived as an intrusion, especially for those on the computer. I felt like someone who is on their cell phone in public, with no awareness of how invasive or annoying their conversation is to those around them. I could only hope that the computer

Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Security Savvy . . . . . . . . . 23

January 2 - January 15, 2015

Does the Library have needs?

Yes, for all the generous donations that have been made, there is an ongoing fundraiser for everything from books to computers to literacy stations. If you wish to help, go to www.ALCPLfoundation. org and you can give online to their “wish list.” books, either electronic or “old school.”

The Shelby Southard history room is one with which I hope to become very familiar, as it will not only include a sizeable hard copy collection of all kinds of works related to history and genealogy, but will also have computers that are linked to Heritage Online.

On my dad’s side of the family, I come from a plantation owner in Louisville, and have always wanted to know more about my southern roots.

The Beasley pre-function area is a large area that can be used for “receptions before

the event,” and leads into the community room which will be available for rent. The donor board is large and lengthy, a visibly noticeable proof of what the community has done to get the library “ship” sailing anew in grand fashion.

One of the literal gifts the library is offering to the community is a period of “fine forgiveness” through the 31st of January, 2015. There is not complete amnesty, however. If you owe $5 or less in library fines, you are home free. If you owe $25 or more, all you pay is $5, and the remaining fines will be waived. If you “forgot” to return your book, oh, let’s say a decade ago, and

The grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony to “launch” the library will be on January 24th at 10 am, and my hope is that it will be well attended.

My longing, however, is that the people of the Tennessee Valley will treasure our “ship” that will enable us to sail far away to the “Read Sea;” our Athens-Limestone County Public Library.

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

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All Things Soldier

Why We Fight, 70 Years Later

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

My mom tells me of how, when she was a teenager in 1937, she observed first hand, (while visiting in Berlin), the creepy sight of Hitler Youth “sieg-ing Heil” by the thousands in homage to Hitler and the Third Reich. She also said that America was still fairly isolationist prior to Pearl Harbor, and that there were actual anti-war demonstrations even after we had been attacked. History bears this out, and the odd mix of socialists, labor movement organizers, communists, pacifists and other “ists” that coalesced into campus demonstrators were, for awhile, a loud voice in the late ‘30s and early ‘40s.

However, at the same time, another voice, that of Frank Capra, (who produced It’s A Wonderful Life), joined with others at the behest of the US government, and produced a 7-hour documentary entitled Why We Fight. It was produced in conjunction with Walt Disney Stu-

dios, and took footage of battles, enemy propaganda films, speeches given by Hitler, Mussolini and Tojo, captured enemy films, and numbers of interviews to educate both the American soldier as well as the American public in regard to what we were facing.

nothing to prevent fascism from becoming the global order of the day. Would to God that were the case in 2015.

Capra had a burning mission statement and challenge: “Let the enemy prove to our soldiers the enormity of his cause-and the justness of ours.” His statement is so brilliant I can hardly

take it in, and it proves that once upon a time, if only for a moment, there was a government, a military, a people and an entertainment industry that came together and that would stop at

Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)

$7

January 20th

11am - 1pm and 5pm-7pm

17915 W Elm St • Athens, Alabama • 256-232-0029 Page 4

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Fast-forward 70 years, and we are slitting our own throats with our pens and iPads. We can’t say there is a global jihadist threat, we are told to redefine the attack at Ft. Hood and the beheading of a woman in Oklahoma as examples of workplace violence, and that we deserved as well as planned 9/11, as insane as that sounds. ISIS has gone so far as to tell us that the filmed beheadings of Westerners are an act of mercy, because they prove ISIS is serious, will prevail, and is kindly offering us the chance to surrender in order to decrease the shedding of blood.

While I was in Iraq, Michael Moore’s Farenheit 9/11 was allowed to be viewed by our soldiers if they so desired, and most of them found it laughable. A push-back film called Faren-hype 9/11 exposed its untruths and was far more popular. But nothing has ever

been produced that begins to approximate the scope of Why We Fight, and thankfully, it can still be seen.

While in Israel, I spent a good chunk of time with World Net Daily cofounder Joseph Farah, and learned of several projects that are currently being produced by WND, and about which I am excited. They have made it possible for this classic to be seen again, and I am grateful. I have no doubt it will be seven hours well spent, and while I know that the vast majority of those who live in Athens need no reminder of what was accomplished for us by the Greatest Generation, we still have a responsibility to mentally arm our soldiers, our kids and ourselves with the truth of who we were, and who we can become again. For under $25 you can get an education that is priceless and without peer in its forthrightness and refreshing patriotism. For more information on how to purchase the 4 DVD re-mastered version of Why We Fight, go to WNDsuperstore. com.

January 2 - January 15, 2015

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Special Feature

Lu Lu’s Place: The Legend Keeps On Cookin’

by Ali Elizabeth Turner In January of 2014, readers of Athens Now were given some good news in the form of an article on Lu Lu’s Place, letting folks know that “the legend” had reopened. It’s now a year later, and “the legend” cooks on, much to the delight of Betty Cowley, Elaina and Phillip Broadway, the rest of the staff, and Lu Lu’s fan base of loyal customers.

Miss Betty founded Lu Lu’s in 2007, her career in hospitality having begun at the age of 15 at the old Athens Café. She also owned a café in Iuka, Mississippi before starting up Lu Lu’s. She had absolutely no plans to retire, but her health became “uncooperative.” There were other owners, and a series of events before Phillip and Elaina Broadway opened Lu Lu’s again on November 14 of 2013. They had met at the restaurant when Elaina was part of the Lu Lu’s wait staff and Phillip was a customer. They fell in love, got married in Miss Betty’s back yard, and had their reception there at the diner.

Even though “technically” Miss Betty is retired, she tries to show up every day, and the Broadways are so glad she does. She taught everyone in the kitchen “just how it’s done,” and is more than just a great source of help; to everyone there, she is considered family.

For his part, Phillip invested a good chunk of his retirement to get the place back up and running, but it didn’t stop there. Unlike Miss Betty or Elaina, Phillip had absolutely no experience in the restaurant business, and has spent the

last year learning the trade when he wasn’t working full time hanging dry- wall.

He nodded when I asked him if he had felt as though he had “been tossed in the pool and told to swim,” but he is quick to acknowledge that Miss Betty and Elaina were there to help him every step of the way. “It’s been a challenge,” he said, “and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.”

Betty said proudly, as though Elaina and Phillip are her own kids, “They’ve done good, and the older custom-

ers have come back.” And then she added something backed by decades of experience: “When customers come back over and over, you’ve done something right, and you gain more than you lose.”

While Elaina is the technical “boss,” she knows that truly serving is what keeps a “meat-and-three,” or any other type of eating establishment going. She told a story of a customer who had come in recently and wanted “real buttermilk pancakes.” He wasn’t content with actual buttermilk added to a baking mix. To him, “made from scratch”

January 2 - January 15, 2015

needed to be exactly that.

So, that’s what Elaina made for him, and she told me through her classic grin, “Now he’s telling everybody that the best pancakes he’s ever had in his life he ate here!”

One thing Elaina, Betty and Phillip wanted readers of Athens Now to understand is that “Lu Lu’s Place is a diner, not a fast food place.

The food is cooked with love, and made to order.”

There are several signature pieces that put Lu Lu’s on the map in the first place,

and they are all part of the daily fare. First, there is the Lu Lu Burger. Elaina says it’s like a “homemade Big Mac.” The meat is all beef, and there are two patties and three buns. Cheese comes with it, along with mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, lettuce, pickle, onion, and tomato. The Lu Lu Burger is served with fries.

The “Betty’s Scrambler” is delicious, I can say from experience, and it has hash browns, eggs, and a choice of up to three additional items like cheese, onions, etc, as well as your choice of biscuit or toast, and un-

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ending coffee. I think it’s my favorite item on the menu, and breakfast can be had all day if you choose.

Lu Lu’s was packed out on Thanksgiving, both as far as putting turkey and all the trimmings on the menu for the dine-in customers, as well as carrying on in Miss Betty’s tradition of preparing sides of all kinds for customers to augment their holiday table. They included chicken and dumplings, chocolate pies, banana pudding, sweet potato pies, and squash casseroles.

Other “Lu Lu’s News” includes the anticipated arrival in April of their first “Lu Lu’s baby,” the “bun

in the oven” of one of their servers. Also coming soon, the healthy upgrade of fried pies, and the hiring of a new breakfast cook who worked at the Crow’s Nest for 23 years. “She can cook some BREAKFAST,” Elaina said proudly.

One last thing that is proof positive why Lu Lu’s became and still is a legend: their attitude toward the elderly and the ill in the Athens area. “We have lost some of our oldest customers this year, we love them, and we miss them,” said Elaina. She also added, “If they call us, we’ll make them their favorite off the menu and take it to them.”

Now, that is food cooked with love, and you’ll find it at Lu Lu’s Place.

Lu Lu’s Place

22728 Pepper Rd. Athens, AL, 35613 256-444-2722 Hours: Thu-Sat, 7am-8pm, Sun 7-3 Page 5

Calendar of Events 101 Inventions That Changed the World Through Mar 15th

U.S. Space and Rocket Center. One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL. Explore the key turning points in humankind’s history defined by creation or discovery in an “unforgettable multi-sensory experience... that’s like traveling the world and moving swiftly thorugh time.”

For hours, admission and more information rocketcenter.com/ admission

Think Well: Healthy Living To Improve Cognitive Function After Breast Cancer Feb 6th (Time and location TBD)

Think Well program is designed to increase awareness of the congnitive changes after breast cancer treatment and promote ways to address those changes for survivors. Free to the public. To register and print your ticket: www.eventbrite.com/e/think-well-atlimestone-county-tickets-14225971263?aff=eventful/r/eventful

O’Neal Church of Christ Singing Jan 10th

O’Neal Church of Christ. 16259 O’Neal Road, Athens, AL. Several song leaders from around the area have volunteered to lead songs during this community event starting at 7:00PM.

Intermediate Sign Language Jan 6th - Feb 10th

Alabama Center for the Arts. Room 113, 133 2nd Avenue NE, Decatur, AL. Join instructor Jeanie Parker from 6:00PM- 7:30PM for a fun course to learn American Sign Language vocabulary and Pidgin Signed English sentence structure for basic communication with the deaf and hearing impaired. Sign language dictionary recommended but not required. Ages 10 and up welcome. CEI 723 CRN# . Fee is $125.00 with manual, $115.00 without manual.

Contact dbass@calhoun.edu or 256-260-2462 for registration and additional information

Carly Hasting Book Signing Jan 17th

Pablo’s on Market, 216 West Market Street, Athens, AL. Come join author Carly Hasting as her latest book,”A Day”, hits the shelf at Pablo’s on Market from 1:00PM-3:00PM.

Learn to Paint with The Plucky Peacock Jan 23rd or 24th

The Plucky Peacock. 27631 U.S. Highway 72, Athens, AL. Learn the 5 basic techniques - painting, distressing, glazing, waxing and top coating from 10:00AM-1:00PM. Participants will complete a takehome chalkboard project. All supplies, reference sheet to take home and a snack will be provided. Cost is $95. For more information: 256-617-9771

Sweet Life! Dessert Comedy Theatre Feb 7th

Emmanuel Baptist Church. 1917 U.S. Highway 72W, Athens, AL. Enjoy clean comedy, great music and a yummy dessert. Doors open at 6:00PM; Event starts at 7:00PM. Tickets are $10.00 in advance; $15.00 at the door; $40.00 per family. Reservation required. More information: 256-232-6193 or visit www.ebcathens.com

Youth Waterfowl Hunting Days Feb 7th - 8th

Alabama Statewide. This is an opportunity to train young waterfowl hunters. Up to two (2) youth participants (defined as individuals who have not reached their sixteenth [16] birthday) must be accompanied by an adult supervisor. The adult supervisor must remain in arm’s length of the youth at all times. The adult supervisor must be 25 years or older and in possession of all state hunting licenses and state and federal waterfowl stamps required to hunt waterfowl. Only one firearm per youth and only the youth hunter will be permited to utilize the firearm for hunting. All regulations including shooting hours, bag limits, legal arms and ammunitions apply and should be reviewed with the youth hunter. www.outdooralabama.com/specialyouth-waterfowl-hunting-days.

Tickets for Polk Sallet Follies On Sale Feb 9th

Athens Senior Center. 912 West Pryor Street, Athens, AL. Ticket sales for the highly anticipated Polk Sallet Follies are from 7:30AM4:00PM Mon-Fri. Tickets can also be purchased on Mondays from 5:00PM-8:00PM. All seats are reserved and must be paid for at the time of purchase. Cash or check only. Tickets are $35.00 each and a limit of two tables per customer. Ticket price includes a 3-course meal. No early registration by phone will be accepted. www. pokesalletfollies.org

Jessica Elkins Memorial Pageant Feb 5th

All proceeds will beneft the Limestone Area Community Foundation’s Jessica Elkins Live, Laugh, Love Fund for promoting menigitis awareness, and a scholarship fund to benefit a graduating Athens High School Senior. Open to girls of all ages and boys/men for the “Ugly Walk”. For more information www.missmodelamerica.com.

Or contact Theresa by calling 256-777-8949 or by emailing theresa@ missmodelamerica.com.

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Great Backyard Bird Count Feb 13th - 16th

Join the Citizen Scientist Movement and help Cornell Lab of Ornithology gather data and learn more about the birds populating Limestone County. It’s free, fun and helps birds! All it takes is 15 minutes just one day in your backyard, city or county park or along one of Athens-Limestone’s 17 trails. Trail brochures are available at the Athens-Limestone Visitors Center 100 North Beaty Street in Athens, AL. Visit The Great Backyard Bird Count page for information on how to participate, Bird ID tools, activities for the kids, count sheets, homeschool and classroom activities.

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January 2 - January 15, 2015

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Jerry’s Journal

On The Possum’s Trail With Jimmie “Two Hills” Part Four

by Jerry Barksdale

Jimmie and I were off on another big adventure. We had given up our search for the gravesite of outlaw Frank James in Lawrence County, Tennessee, because we discovered he is buried in Missouri. Instead we decided to follow what I called the “Possum’s Trail.” Along the way, I wanted to know more about Jimmie’s life and visit where country singing legend George Jones had lived, worked, and done mischief.

the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer when they were kids. “No,” I said. “When he was a baby, he accidentally poked a spoon in his eye and put it out.” Jimmie said. Spooner is featured in the documentary movie Muscle Shoals, which I highly recommend.

straightened it. He always gave me a hundred dollars.”

Shortly, I turned south into a subdivision of nice homes and well-groomed lawns. “Pull into this driveway,” said Jimmie, pointing to a fine house perched on a hill far back off the street.

It was a heavy moment. “This

We stopped at Bunyon’s Barbecue on West College Street. I knew it would be good eating when I saw folks lining up at the counter. Everyone seemed to know Jimmie. Sherriff Willis came in and Jimmie introduced

When we neared Rogersville (known for its tasty fried catfish, friendly citizens, and low speed limit), I slowed to 45mph. Jimmie reminded me that Rogersville was where fans became so upset back in the 1970s they jumped the wrestlers.

“We had to fight our way back to the dressing room,” he said. “The police put us in a squad car, and took us out of town where fans couldn’t attack us.”

On another occasion in Rogersville, Jimmie (AKA “Cry Baby Hills”) was wrestling Rick Singleton when fans jumped him again. Singleton intervened. “Thanks to him, he saved me that night.” Jimmie had a boa constrictor named “Julius Squeezer” that he threw on his opponent to taunt the crowd. I was beginning to suspect that my friend Jimmie wasn’t a principled and sportsmanlike wrestler. I slouched low in the seat and pressed the accelerator, not wanting to be seen with “Cry Baby Hills.”

Some Rogersville folks may have a long memory.

We approached Killen, where Jimmie was born. “Did I tell you how Spooner Oldham got his nickname?” asked Jimmie, who lived across the road from

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In the 1970s, Jimmie went to New York and competed in the world haircutting competition, where he placed first in men’s hairstyling. He was given a free trip to compete in Europe, but didn’t go.

Jimmie Two Hills, (l) and George Jones is where Ann and I lived when she died,” he said quietly. The beautiful 16 year old daughter of a Baptist preacher that he had married in Iuka two weeks after meeting her died suddenly. “I woke up beside her and she was dead; had a stroke and died in her sleep. I think about her every day.”

In Florence, we drove past Darby Drive and Jimmie pointed out a small strip mall where his shop was located when George Jones came in for his first haircut. Wow! The location where Jimmie created the famous George Jones possum cut. I asked how he did it. “Put in a little gel, blow dried it, and

me. “I think Lauderdale County is about to elect its first Republican Sherriff,” he said, referring to former wrestler and Florence Police Chief Rick Singleton, who had just won the Republican primary.

We ordered barbecue sandwiches slathered with lots of mustard slaw, and drove to McFarland Park. We sat a picnic table by the river’s edge. “This is where we used to come and park with our dates,” Jimmie said. My sandwich was delicious, but had turned to yellow mush, and I had to eat it with my fingers.

I recommend the sandwich, but grab plenty of napkins.

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Jimmie grew quiet. He said that about 4 months after Ann died, she woke him up calling his name.

“Jimmiee-Jimmieee…”

“I looked up, and she was smiling at me,” he said. “Then she just vanished.” “She was letting you know she was okay,” I offered. I asked how he met his current wife, Barbara. “We were both attending grieving classes and later I saw her at church,” said Jimmie. “One Sunday after church, I asked her to go to Shoney’s with us and eat strawberry pie and have coffee.

Then we started dating and got married in 2006. She’s a real good woman, and she’s good to me.”

We crossed the Tennessee River and headed to Muscle Shoals. “Would you like to see the house where George lived?” he asked. The possum tour was under way! We pulled into the driveway of a 3-level house at 2106 Marietta Street. The owner, Tom Drake, was in the yard and recognized Jimmie. He invited us inside. Just off a two-car garage was a rec room where Jimmie and George had once played pool. Upstairs was a large living room. “I was sitting here one night babysitting and watching TV when Bosephus (Hank Jr.) showed up looking for George,” said Jimmie. “I told him he wasn’t here.

He went out and got a bottle of Jack Daniels and came in and we watched TV until 2a.m.”

We headed to Tuscumbia to visit Earl “Peanutt” Montgomery, Grammy nominee, member of the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, and one of the most prolific songwriters in America.

Earlier, I had Googled him. He had written and co-written 73 George Jones songs, 15 solos for Tammy Wynette, and 13 duos with George Jones. His

songs have been recorded by so many famous artists that I lost count: Bob Dylan, Elvis Costello, Eddie Arnold, Dolly Parton, Porter Wagoner, Emmylou Harris, Tanya Tucker, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Jerry Lee Lewis, Hank Jr., Percy Sledge, Barbara Mandrell, and others. Peanutt is a major talent.

North Main Street in Tuscumbia reminded me of a movie scene in the 1930s. We parked in front of a vacant and shuttered building and walked across the street to Charlotte’s Variety Store, a combination discount and thrift shop. An old metal desk and several other items of used furniture were scattered on the sidewalk. An older model pickup truck hooked to a trailer loaded with display cases was parallel parked in front.

“There’s Peanutt and Charlene,” Jimmie said, and waved. An attractive blonde was sitting on a metal desk talking to an unshaven man wearing jogging shoes, jeans, knit pull-over shirt, and a cap with a soiled bill. It was Peanutt. They were happy to see Jimmie, who introduced me.

“I feel like I should address you as Mr. Peanutt,” I said. He smiled. Good teeth and soft eyes. “Just plain Peanutt, with two ‘t’s’,” he said, and shook my hand. “I’m a name, not a thing.”

While Jimmie and Peanutt reminisced about George, I conversed with Charlene. She is also a songwriter and author of recently released “The Legend of George Jones, His Life and Death.” I purchased a copy, and she and Peanutt signed it, “May God bless you.” Charlene’s sister, Linda Welborn, was George Jones’ girlfriend, fiancé, and accordContinued on Pg 19

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Tourism

The Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association

by Teresa Todd, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association Have you ever wondered what role the Tourism office and Visitor Center have in Limestone County?

The primary purpose of the Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association is to invite people to Athens and Limestone County, so that they can become “temporary tax payers.” In other words, people who come to visit, stay in our hotels, buy gas, enjoy their meals in our restaurants and attend our events and attractions.

In Limestone County’s five towns, the Tourism Industry brings historians, naturalists, hikers, bikers, equestrians, kayak enthusiasts, fishermen, Civil War historians, artisans, storytellers, artists, musicians, sporting events, horse shows, rodeos, seminars, meetings, conferences, class & family reunions and many, many jobs!

We also develop tourism through the promotion of permanent attractions such as the Alabama Veterans’ Museum and Belle Chevre Creamery tours. This year, we had outstanding attendance at our many tours of our Historic Districts, Cemeteries and Antebellum homes. Our largest tour was from Samford University, where they brought 50

guests from Birmingham to stay overnight to visit and learn about our antiques as well as the architecture of our historical homes and buildings.

The Limestone County Archives brings all generations to Athens as they are looking into their family genealogy.

As our families spread across the United States, discovering and preserving those precious times of yesteryear can take several days and many make it their primary goal of their vacation time.

Athens also can boast about its very own drivein theater positioned alongside our walk-in theater. This drive-in is one of only nine in the state of Alabama still operating. Though many others have closed, we still enjoy reminiscing about our youth while attending our outdoor drive-in theater, which brings people to Limestone County for their opportunity to experience the family fun.

Athens State University is the site of Founders’ Hall, built in 1822. ASU is Alabama’s oldest institution of higher education. Their “Livingstone Series” offers an array of wonderful speakers, musicians, plays and other events

for the public to attend.

The Livingstone Series also brings in visitors from our neighboring communities.

Tourists come into Limestone County communities such as Elkmont for the Songwriters’ Night, and to hear the performers at the Red Caboose. The free concert series we know as ‘Singing on the Square’ from April-August, hosted by the Tourism Office, is always while attempting the world record for the most toga wearing attendees.

well attended. Entertainment facilities such as Yesterday’s feature nationally recognized singers and impressionists like Kevin Adams and the music group, The Flashbacks.

You see, music is in the fabric of Limestone County.

The Old Time Fiddlers’ Convention, known across the country, will soon be enjoying their 50th Anniversary.

The two-day event brings 15,000 people to Limestone County. They come by car, RV, bus, and some even fly to get here. Our Athens Storytelling Festival, a week-long celebration of our tales, liars and lives bring people from over 25 states to hear the best of tellers. We also have our namesake Festival, the Athens Grease Festival, where we celebrate “all things fried”

We encourage educational historical activities such as our free guided historical walks held each Saturday in April, and programs like Earth Day, Spirit of Athens’ art camps, and strolls, as well as the Farmer’s Markets held throughout the summer. The Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association / Athens Visitors’ Center is located in the historic Athens Utilities Building, built in 1906. Big Spring Memorial Park sits just behind our location, with beautiful, relaxing fountains and various species of ducks.

Athens-Limestone County is rich in history, culture and music, but our eye is very much fixed on the future and new growth opportunities for our town.

ALCTA is open Monday-Friday, 8:00AM - 4:30PM, and in the summer on Saturdays from 8:00AM – 12:00PM. Come by for a tour of our historic building. Look through the rack of brochures, information leaflets, and post cards. We will be pleased to tell you more about Limestone County. Remember, “We are what you love about the South!”

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January 2 - January 15, 2015

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Clean and Green

A New Year, A Renewed Focus

by Lynne Hart

outdoor activities this year.

Happy New Year! We at KALB wish you and your family a healthy, prosperous, and blessed New Year.

Recycle old electronics: Christmas brings all sorts of gifts that make old electronics obsolete. We are fortunate to have our

all year long during business hours. Anything using batteries or electricity is accepted free of charge (except TVs -- they are no longer accepted). So don’t

Volunteer at the Community Garden: If you have a heart for the hungry, your help is needed.

KALB received a grant to create a community gar-

At the start of this New Year, KALB staff and volunteers will be planning our activities with the community in mind. Everything we plan is for the betterment of Athens and Limestone County, but nothing would be accomplished without all of our neighbors playing a part.

Here are some ideas to help you focus on the environment during 2015: Put down the electronics and go outside! Games and texting are fun. I am guilty of all of it. However, we miss so much when we stare at our phones, computers, and televisions all day. There is a world outside that our youth are missing. Walks in the woods, creek hikes, a canoe or kayak trip down the Elk River, bird watching, or a trip to the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge are all family activities that will remind us of the beauty of nature and the diversity of life. Learning to appreciate the world around us is the first step to taking responsibility for it. Make it a point to plan

den at the Farmers Market.

The Spirit of Athens has agreed to oversee plantings and upkeep of the produce and many volunteers are needed. A few hours a week would make a huge difference to those in need of fresh food right here in our own community.

Athens-Limestone Recycling Center (a division of KALB) that accepts electronics for recycling

pile your old electronics up in the garage or send them to a landfill. Recycle them responsibly instead.

Recycle old tires: The Limestone County Commission has received a grant to continue accepting tires for recycling at the county garages. Don’t take them to the transfer station where they will be sent to a landfill. Recycling tires is free for Limestone County residents!

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Resolve to reduce litter: Litter is created in several ways. Some people toss trash out of their cars (that includes cigarette butts).

Some put loose trash in their garbage cans, which is scattered on trash day. Some let

loose items fly out of their pickup truck beds, while others leave trash behind after sports events or just drop it on the ground. It is all littering, even when it’s not intentional. Resolve to be more careful with your trash and remind friends and family that it is never someone else’s responsibility to pick up after us.

What you leave behind may seem harmless, but could be deadly to wildlife and harmful to the environment.

Be part of the solution: Take advantage of events such as the Earth Day & Outdoor EXPO in April to learn more about the environment. Participate in the Elk River Canoe & Kayak Trail cleanup, taking place in March. Plant and nurture a free seedling when we have our giveaway.

Adopt a roadside to keep clean. Become a KALB volunteer. We need everyone to pitch in!

If you would like more information about our organization and ways in which you can become involved, please don’t hesitate to call us. There is a place for everyone, whether it’s a one-time task or an ongoing volunteer relationship.

Make your New Year one filled with the beauty of nature and respect for our planet.

Become a Fan

(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com January 2 - January 15, 2015

Cooking with Shelley

Spice Cake

by Shelley Underhill

SPICE CAKE What you will need: 1 box of spice cake mix 1 can tomato soup

Wanna spice up the New Year? Try this recipe on for size. I recently had my fill of this culinary delight! As always, I promise you will not regret preparing this recipe for you and your family. Give it a try and let me know what ya think. I love hearing from YOU the readers, and you can email me at shelleysdesk@gmail.com Enjoy!

¾ cup water 2 eggs 1/3 cup oil ½ cup shredded carrots ½ cup chopped walnuts 1 cup confectioner’s sugar 2 tablespoons lemon juice Directions: Heat oven to 375F, spray bundt pan with Baker’s Joy for baking, spraying well. In a bowl, mix together all ingredients except sugar and lemon juice. Pour batter into pan, and let cook about 45 minutes or until you can stick a toothpick into the center of cake, and it comes out clean. When cake is done, turn cake out onto a cooling rack.

Glaze: Combine together sugar and lemon juice, mix until smooth. When cake is cool, drizzle over cake.

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Health and Fitness

Thank You For A Great 2014

by Janet Hunt

Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment.

style Change and Weight Management Class. This class offered students information about their current eating habits and provided alternative or new eating options that might lead to a healthier lifestyle.

This class will be offered again in January and February of 2015 for 4 to 6 weeks.

I want to thank each and every one of you that have participated in my classes or employed my services as a Certified Personal Trainer in 2014.

In 2014, I continued my Strength and Balance classes at Athens Senior Center on Hobbs Street. These classes are offered on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8:30am to 9:15 am Students do not need to sign up or make a long-term commitment – just show up and join the fun with good music and great friends. Class is free, however donations are accepted. Some in the group have been there since I started in 2012, and others are new. In this class, as with all the fitness classes I teach, students work at their own pace. If we do something out of your comfort zone – don’t do it. This class involves standing and sitting with small weights, small balls and elastic tubing. Of course, anything we do standing can be done seated.

In January 2014, I started a Walking (Indoors) class at Rogersville United Methodist Church. In this class, we use the indoor walking track and do strength exercises using elastic tubing. Again, this is a donation only class. We meet Tuesday and Thursday from 8:30am – 9:15am at the church’s indoor walking track.

For 2015, I invite you to try one or all of my classes or give me a call about personal training. If you think you have a location and a group that is interested in a class closer to home, give me a call. If none of these classes appeals to you, and you are still interested in regular exercise for 2015, there are lots of other options out there: Athens Limestone Wellness Center, Sports Fit, Lion’s Den, Fit Lab, Riviera Fitness, various outdoor Boot Camps, and other Personal Trainers in the Athens area.

In March 2014, I began a Cardio and Strength Class at Round Island Baptist Church on Brownsferry Road. This class was started at the request of one of my Senior Center students who requested a class closer to her home. I was willing to give it a try and guess what – it continues to grow.

This class meets on Tuesday and Thursday from 10am – 11 am in the gym behind the church. This is a great class for those on the west side of Athens, and those sleepyheads who want that little

extra sleep. We use weights, small balls, elastic tubing and sometimes basketball hoops.

We do use chairs for some strength exercises.

In September 2014, I added Water, Fitness & Fun classes to my schedule. These are Monday and Thursday evenings at 5pm at AthensLimestone Wellness Center.

Water is a great environment for exercise if you have joint problems such as osteoarthritis. Worried about cost?

The Wellness Center has lots of options: full membership, pool-only membership, and 1-day passes.

training is a great way to keep yourself motivated, as well as to get a workout tailored to your special needs.

In September and October, I offered a short 3-week Life-

If you have questions about or need suggestions for fitness for 2015, contact me at 256614-3530 or visit my Facebook page, Janet’s Fitness.

Not a group or class type person, but sometimes find yourself needing or wanting special attention? I have you covered!

In 2014, I continued to train one-on-one or small groups in my home studio, outdoors at a park or walking track, or even in the client’s home. Personal

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Page 15

Cover Story

Athens SportsFit: More Than A Place To Lift Weights, It’s A Community

by Jonathan Henderson continued from page 1

Athens Facility Director Phil Snyder said SportsFit puts emphasis on family and the community because Encore/SportsFit is a family-owned and operated business. “Encore is a family run business, and SportsFit is no different,” Snyder said. “That is the type of atmosphere that we are going for, where everyone who comes in feels comfortable.

We are striving to be a location to fit all of the sides to the community.”

SportsFit offers group exercise classes ranging in different paces and intensity levels, led by nationally certified instructors. The classes include Zumba, CycleFit, Pilates, Yoga, Strength Training, Abs, Step, as well as water aerobics classes. An array of cardiovascular machines, including treadmills, ellipticals, arc trainers, upright bikes and recumbent

two, logging cardio miles they have completed,” Snyder said. “Teams are set up against each other in a bracket style format, so it’s a head to head competition and it goes through an elimination process of total miles against total miles. About six years ago, the team who won loaded up about 700 miles; that was excessive and usually the numbers aren’t that high, but that’s the idea.” Snyder said the process includes team members logging all completed cardio miles within the gym, on equipment such as the

bikes are also available to help modify each workout.

The exclusive aquatics area features a large indoor pool with a year-round temperature at 88 degrees. Our pool welcomes you to participate in lap swimming, walking, or scheduled aqua aerobics classes. The area also includes

a whirlpool and sauna.

Strength training systems and free weights are also available on site to train specific muscle groups, and are the optimal way to build a dynamic, cut physique. The gym offers more than just classes, free weights, and machines. It also encourages its members to dive into several competitions put on by the facility each year.

“Each year during March Madness, we have a fourweek cardiovascular driven competition where gym members compete in pairs of

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treadmill, stationary bike, or elliptical, and receive five miles for each completed fitness class. The members pay a $5 fee to join the March Madness competition, and receive a free T-shirt for doing so.

“The winners of the competition receive a three month credit for their membership applied to their account,” Snyder said. “So, it’s a fun way to motivate the members and get them involved at the facility. We have another contest during the

January 2 - January 15, 2015

fall around the time of the Alabama/Auburn game.

It’s more laid back than the March Madness competition. It just requires all Alabama and Auburn fans (if they wish to log their miles and participate), to simply keep up with the amount of miles they do while they are at the gym. At the end of the competition, we just tally up the number of miles. Alabama won the competition this year. My goal would be to have 5-6 competitions throughout the year to keep the members involved, and give them new opportunities to set goals for themselves.

We would also have incentives to help encourage them to reach their goals.”

A distinguishing characteristic that allows SportsFit to stick out from the rest of “gym crowd” is its wellrounded facility of all mindsets, body types, and personalities. “With every workout facility, you have your gym members who are in and out at the same time on a consistent basis, you have those who come in sparingly, but are still fairly consistent, and then you have those who come in rarely,” Snyder said.

“Those people that are committed and always come in at

the same time, who make it a routine in their life, you want those people to be a part of your gym, because they are the blood of the gym, and they keep everything else flowing. Others may call them exercise nuts, but the truth is, they come in to workout and they set the tone. They spend time continually bettering themselves, and can feed off of one another. I consider them to be one of the most important assets to the gym because they keep everything going. They promote a positive work environment, and they are your ‘word of mouth’ around

the town. You want those people as a part of your location.”

Athens Sports Fit is continually involved with community events such as the ChickFil-A 5k taking place in April.

“We sponsored a booth at the Chick-Fil-A 5K last year and that’s one of the ways we like to get our name out in the community,” Snyder said. All in all, SportsFit of Athens has something to offer everyone, and the time is coming for new faces to join.

“January is usually the busiest time of the year, the first

three months of the year involve those that are making New Year’s resolutions and setting goals for themselves,” Snyder said. “The last three months are also busy, but not like the first three. The middle section of the year is your slower time.

People want to take advantage of the nice weather and do things outdoors, so that’s when we see fewer people in the gym. During that six month section of the year is when you find out who your hardcore gym nuts are.”

Snyder has been an employee of SportsFit for three years and the facility director for six months.

Whether you’re looking to lose 10 pounds or 100, tone or body-build, train for a marathon, or take a Spinning class, SportsFit is the location to do so. All new members receive a free training session or set-up with a certified personal trainer. Commit to being fit in 2015 and join SportsFit as we strive to help build a better you!

Contact Athens SportsFit at 256-233-3994 for more information, or visit www.sports fitwellness.com.

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Learning As A Lifestyle

The Center For Lifelong Learning Cookbook Club

by Wanda Campbell

Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262

I learned to cook when I was very young. Like most kids, my first recipes were for sweets. My mom had the best recipe for brownies. It was easy to mix, only had six ingredients, and I remember that it seemed to come out great every time. In all this time, I have never found a better recipe for brownies, and I have tried lots of them.

One of my favorite holiday recipes is Fantasy Fudge. The recipe used to be on the back of the Kraft Marshmallow Cream jar.

It only takes ten minutes to make, is always perfect, and you can adapt the original recipe for your favorite types of fudge. My personal favorite is peanut butter fudge, and I use crunchy peanut butter so I don’t need to add nuts.

For me, the holidays are a great time to practice baking. In the past, my kids and I would bake together – lots of sugar cookies, peanut butter fudge, and applesauce cakes. Since my kids are all grown now, I don’t have as many opportunities to bake sweets. This Christmas, I missed the baking but got my sweet fix at family gatherings and holiday parties. Thank goodness other people like to bake for the holidays, too.

Two months ago, the Center for Lifelong Learning started a Cookbook Club.

During November and December, the group experimented with recipes for appetizers. This month we will be starting on soups and stews, and I will be contributing my favorite beef stew. Other members will be contributing Friendship Soup, Wedding Soup, Tortellini Soup, a couple of chili recipes and chowder. I am really looking forward to the meeting, which will be held Monday, January 5,

from 12:00pm to 1:00pm at the CLL Training Room.

If you would like to join us, bring a sample of your favorite soup or stew, and the recipe card to the meeting.

Membership is free, and the meeting is very informal. We are working our way through a meal, and will be compiling the recipes into a cookbook of our own at the end.

The club is a way to experiment with recipes, make your own adaptations, and show off your culinary skills. The group is friendly and welcoming. For more information, you can call me at 256-233-8262.

Our winter/spring catalog of classes will be coming out soon, and I hope you will join us for a class, trip, or event. Here’s that promised fudge recipe, and we’ll see you soon at the Center for Lifelong Living at Athens State University.

Peanut Butter Fudge 3 cups granulated sugar ¾ cup butter Page 18

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or margarine 2/3 cup (5oz can) evaporated milk ½ cup peanut butter (or 12oz package chocolate chips) 1 (7oz) jar marshmallow cream 1 teaspoon vanilla Butter a 9x13 pan. Mix butter, sugar, and milk in a large, heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring to dissolve sugar. Bring mixture to a full boil for five minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter (or chocolate chips). Beat in marshmallow cream and vanilla. Transfer fudge to pan and let cool before cutting into squares.

January 2 - January 15, 2015

What Makes Ronnie Roll

Looking Back And Ahead

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

As Mayor Ronnie fetched water and I put coffee in the Mr. Coffee machine in the temporary City Hall conference room, we began to talk about what a year it had been.

With his characteristic “positivity,” he made the following comment: “I am more excited now to be a part of Athens, and the future, than I have been since 2004.” We began to look at the last decade, not just the last year, and on ahead a few years to the bi-centennial of the City of Athens, which will be in 2018.

We have, in the last decade, had literal killer tornados and an economically killer recession, and through all of it, by God’s grace, we came together as a community, over and over

again. We talked about the slow, but definite turnaround in the economy, and what a blessing it has been to have had several corporations choose our area in which to set up shop, particularly in 2014. Right before he walked in, he was informed of yet another possible corporation interested in the Athens Limestone area, but of course could not discuss any of the details other than to say that it was “important.” I appreciate his “tight-lipped-ness” as much as I appreciate his joy. As always, he was sure to mention that the successful influx of economic projects only comes about by a team that works together, sees it through, and ultimately makes it happen.

He showed me a white board in the conference room that had all the figures for the new storm shelter projects. Athens is growing, and while we have seen a big increase in our ability to give shelter in storms, we need more, and again, through team work, we will get them. One shelter is going to be able to accommodate 400 people, and will also be multi-purpose. Through the Emergency Management Agency, the school system and the city, the project will be funded, and no one will go in the hole keeping folks safe.

The sewers are being redone, we have new sidewalks, and while things still need to be smoothed out, our city is being revitalized before we face

the expected substantial growth spurt that has been forecast.

Another thing we discussed is the tricky balance in being enthusiastic about all the good that is happening, (and not just economically,) while being fearless in facing the “potholes,” (literal and symbolic) that need to be fixed. “We can give the wrong impression if all we talk about is the good, and act like we don’t have any problems,” he said. “We definitely have challenges, and it is going to take a lot of prayer and patience to meet those challenges and solve our problems.” We talked about how we had seen definite answers to prayer that were critical to the well being of our city and how it works

together, and he mentioned, as he often does, how glad he is to be “surrounded by a wonderful staff.”

One of his concerns is the transition that will necessarily occur when a number of city employees retire; the challenge coming from both the standpoint of funding their retirement in the long term, as well as finding qualified people to take their place. As always, our time flew by and we “durst not” forget to pray. When we were finished, he said, “2015 will be a fantastic year,” and then Ronnie had to roll.

Jerry’s Journal Continued from Pg 8

ing to Charlene, common law wife. It struck me as unusual that these two uncommon and famous people were so down home and well… so common looking. Just plain folks; no limousine, no fancy clothes, and no airs. I immediately liked them.

Several years ago, they got off the fast lane, gave up their castle-like mansion on Hillsboro Road in Nashville, and turned their attention to God. Peanutt put down the bottle, picked up the Bible, and began preaching at Oakwood

Baptist Church. Charlene said that the Hollywood producer of “Naked and Afraid” had contacted them about a reality show. I predict it will be a hoot and a hit. Imagine, Peanutt writing Country songs about drinking, driving tractors, and selling junk through the week and preaching to folk on Sunday. Only in the South.

George Jones was married five times, according to Charlene.

Tammy Wynette was his third wife. After their divorce, Charlene introduced him to her recently divorced sister, Linda Welborn, in 1974. It was love at first sight for George. They never formalized their vows during years of holding themselves out as husband and wife.

There is no doubt that Peanutt

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and Charlene loved Georgeenough for Peanutt to obtain a court order having in him committed to Hillcrest Hospital in a straight jacket.

Peanutt announced that he had to deliver the trailer load of old display cases, and ambled toward the pickup. Jimmie and I said goodbye and departed.

“Y’all come back anytime,” hollered Charlene.

On the trip back to Athens, Jimmie told me he was paid $250 a day to travel with George, style his hair, and keep a watchful eye on him. George would disappear. It was an interesting and sometimes dangerous job.

“We got run out of Canada one time,” he said. “We were playing at the Maple Leaf Garden and somehow George got hold

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of some cocaine and didn’t want to go on stage. I talked him into it. He stopped in the middle of singing ‘White Lightning,’ shot the audience a bird and said ‘this is what I think of your Queen.’ The fans tried to turn the bus over with us in it.”

Natchez Trace. I got George back to his room and he wanted to talk to Willie Nelson. I went and got Willie to come up to talk. George dozed off.

We pulled off his clothes and left him naked so he wouldn’t run.”

On another occasion, George was playing in Hollywood and decided he wanted to fly to Vegas and see Willie Nelson. The next morning they took George to the airport to fly back to California. “Somehow, he got away; just disappeared,” said Jimmie. “I searched the airport.

He was nowhere to be found.

I walked outside, and there he stood, waiting on a taxi. I asked him where the hell he was going. ‘To Culbert Park,’ George replied. That’s located on the

Back at Jimmie’s house, I decided I wanted the man who designed the famous possum cut to style my hair. I removed my cap. “Jimmie, can you give me a possum cut?” I asked. He looked at my bald head. “Well, I’ll have to charge you a finder’s fee,” he said.

Jimmie cuts hair at the Razor’s Edge in Athens on Monday, Thursday and Friday, and half a day on Saturday. A regular haircut costs $12.00. I suspect a possum cut will cost you more.

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Dog Barker

Caring For Your Canine Christmas Present

by Joel Allen

It’s the New Year and with another Christmas passed, I know there are families who just added a new canine family member. Whether they are young or old, it does not matter. What matters is whether or not every member of the family understands what their new addition can be like. I see a lot of families get the dog they dream of having, and then they are disappointed because the dog, be it a puppy or full adult, is more than they can handle.

If the dog is a pure blood of its kind, then I would suggest looking at the breed’s history through a well-es-

tablished resource, and study what the breed is known to do, what it likes and dislikes, if they are energetic, etc.

If the dog is mixed and the mixture of bloodlines is known, I would study all the different breeds, and be on the look out for the different characteristics so I could best prepare for what may come.

Call me crazy, but I have found through my experiences that different breeds will act certain ways, and it can be predicted at times what they are going to be like as they grow up.

Knowing the breed, adding a lot of love, and spending time with

the dog may help avoid some of the troubles that most dogs like to display, such as eating our shoes, thinking the couch is on the menu, or even terrorizing the cat.

So it’s a puppy! Here is what is to be expected: (This is only my opinion) 1.Vaccines (7 and 1 shot) 2.House Breaking (go to www.athensnowal. com and look in the Dog Barker archives for help on this) 3.Eventual trouble with chewing 4.Calling a trainer for advice Let us say the new ad-

dition to the family is an adult dog. What can be expected? Here is what I have noticed over the years: 1.Should be already vaccinated 2.Their true personality normally appears when they have been in the home for one to two weeks 3.Already house broken most of the time; that is not to say they won’t have an accident 4.They tend to understand that they were saved and normally love the family for it 5.Calling a trainer for any advice and concerns

For the adult dogs, my biggest concern is if they have been abused.

When adopting, ask about the history of the dog. Even if they have been abused, please don’t rule them out because they are the ones that need a loving family the most.

Now granted, don’t go out there and adopt a dog that is going to eat the family up because of what I said above. Know the limits and toleration of what can be handled, and don’t over do it. Like that commercial says, “There is a shelter pet who can’t wait to meet you.” Also, “Opt to adopt,” as Peace, Love and Animals would say.

Lastly, remember the Athens Animal Shelter.

There are several animals needing a home.

Shame on anyone who can do something for them but instead turns their backs. God watches us all. As Proverbs 12:10 says, “A righteous man regardeth the life of his animal, but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.”

“Remember to love your dogs because they love you. Maybe not the way you want them to, like chewing up your favorite shoes or what not, but that is just love chewing. Be thankful for the time you have with them always.”

Joel and Zues Allen 256-651-2211

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Medical Update

What You Can Do To Fight The Flu

By Rachel Clark, RN, BSN

It’s that time of year again: the dreaded flu season. We’ve all heard the stories on the news of the numbers of cases of the flu skyrocketing this year. We’ve heard that this year’s flu vaccine is already ineffective in preventing it, so much sooner than flu vaccines in years previous. The strain has mutated, according to researchers, and even if you received the flu shot this year, it may not be protecting you against the mutated strain.

This is not the first year that I have seen this as a nurse.

It seems that it has been going on for at least the last 3 years. Each year, our hospitals have been full of patients diagnosed with the flu. Last year was one of the most concerning to me personally, as those who were coming down with the flu and being hit the hardest were people in my age group: their 20s and 30s. Young people across the country last year ended up in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and some even died as a result of getting the flu.

Many of them had also been vaccinated against it. This year seems to be no different, except that the virus is less discriminate in who is being hit hard.

1.Get enough sleep. Sleep is very important to the healing process of the body. Though there is no “magic number” as far as sleep is concerned, researchers have long said that 8 hours is a good target to shoot for. That may not be the best number for each individual, so listen to your body. You may need more or less. When you are sick, your need for sleep increases, as sleep is the time when your body repairs and rejuvenates itself. As a protective measure, go to bed a little earlier than you normally would in order to give yourself a bit more time to sleep than usual.

2.Drink plenty of water. Yes, WATER! You can add things like lemon, lime, or other fresh fruit juices to it if you can’t stand the taste of plain water, but water is one of your body’s best defenses against getting sick. The average adult body is made up of 5065% water. That of an infant is

much higher, 75-78%. This is why children dehydrate much faster than adults. Women need about 9 cups of water (2.2Liters) and men need 13 cups (3Liters) of total water intake per day. This increases if you are sick, so stay on top of it before getting sick, to make sure dehydration isn’t as severe as it could be.

3.Eat your fruits and vegetables. I know this may sound simple, but it is some of the best advice out there. The US government now recommends that fully HALF your plate at EACH meal should be made up of fresh, raw fruits and vegetables. Most people are lucky if they eat one fruit or vegetable a day, let alone half their plate 3 times a day. Fruits and vegetables are packed with antioxidants, phytonutrients, and other components that are essential to building a healthy body. It’s true what Grandma used to say: “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” That’s

because of all the necessary things your body gets when it eats that apple, or other piece of fruit or vegetable. Your body can’t use fractionated vitamin supplements nearly as well as it can use whole food nutrition found in fruits and vegetables.

4.Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.

Yes, another simple way to increase your immunity this flu season. Alcohol based hand rubs can be very drying to the skin and cause cracks. Any area of breakdown on your skin is a portal through which bacteria and viruses can enter and attack. Use these products sparingly. Whenever possible, use soap and warm water to wash your hands. Fully dry them to prevent cracking and drying of tissue.

5.Cover your cough/sneeze.

If you or your family is sick, cover your cough/sneeze. Use tissues whenever possible and dispose of them into the gar-

bage as quickly as possible to prevent the spread of bacteria from the tissue to other surfaces and people. If you don’t have a tissue available, use your elbow rather than your hands. Wash your hands immediately after coughing/ sneezing to prevent spread of infection.

6.STAY HOME IF YOU ARE SICK! If you or your family is sick, especially if running a fever, stay home.

Exposing others to the bacteria can be life threatening, especially in the very old or very young since their immune systems aren’t as responsive as that of a healthy adult. If you go to the doctor’s office, stay away from others even if they also appear sick, as you could cross infect each other.

These six simple steps, if heeded, may help keep you and your family a little healthier during this flu season.

So, what can you do to protect yourself and your family if the flu shot you received this year is already ineffective, and may not prevent you from contracting this potentially life-threatening illness? There are many ways that you can help boost your immune system at home. Below you’ll find a few simple tips to help you this season as you make your health and your family’s health a top priority.

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January 2 - January 15, 2015

Security Savvy

Whose Responsibility Is It, Anyway?

by Brian Black, Operations Manager of Madison Security Group 203 Us Highway 31 S, Athens, AL 35611 It’s dark and late, and you’re walking to your car. You see a person pull a driver out of their car at gun point. What should you do? Call the police.

But then what? What is your responsibility at this point? This is a scene that occurs way too often, and nothing seems to be done.

for helping protect those around you if you are able. If you saw a child playing on the swings and fell, wouldn’t you go and help? What if you saw an auto accident; wouldn’t you stop to help? All I am saying is to extend your sphere of protection a little bit.

The best thing you can do at this point is to be the best witness that the police can have. First, make sure you are in a safe area.

Once safe, then get as good a description of the criminal as possible. Things that you need to report are size, sex, and any distinguishing features of the criminal. Note which way the person went and how the victim is doing. These situations are always hard to get involved in, and we’ve been told not to get involved for too long. It’s time for those days to go away.

We hear commercials for home security systems.

We hear people that advocate for the safe use of guns in the home. None of these things makes a difference if you don’t take matters into your own hands and take the necessary moves to protect yourself. It comes down to this simple question: Are you prepared? Are you prepared to defend your home against anything?

And, I do mean anything: fire, intruders, and safety

issues alike. It is not the fire department’s responsibility to make sure you do not leave your iron on, so why do people think it is the police department’s responsibility to keep you safe?

It’s time to take responsibility for yourself, your

family, and your friends/ neighbors.

I am in no way saying that the police aren’t doing their job, but there is a limit as to what they can do and when they can arrive to help. These men and women work long, hard hours and put their lives on the line every day. Yet, some people think that the police are there to take care of every little thing.

We laugh when we hear the 9-1-1 calls that come from the person waiting in line because the restaurant ran out of a menu item. Let’s quit depending on our police officers for our every security need.

We now live in a world where you have to constantly be aware of your surroundings because of criminals, and we are becoming outnumbered.

Now we need to watch out for each other. The first thing people will want to point out is that’s why we pay the police officers. The police cannot be everywhere, and rarely, through no fault of their own, can they do anything to prevent a crime.

The responsibility for your safety and security is yours. Not only is it your responsibility to protect yourself, you should take on the responsibility

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