January 22, 2016

January 22 - February 4, 2016

AthensNowal.com E-MAIL: info@athensnowal.com ADVERTISING: Ali Elizabeth: 256-468-9425 David: 256-702-2237

See Our Listings Inside this edition...

Pages 25 - 32

Special Feature Arise And Build...

The history of Trinity School will come to life onstage in February with the production of Arise and Build, a musical play depicting people and... Page 5

NEWtritional Health Care, LLC: “Let’s Build Your Health In 2016”

By Roy Williams NEWtritional Health Care, LLC, is a North Alabama based business with a long history of success in developing and distributing some of the Continued on page 15

Clean And Green We Are About To Get VERY Busy!...

It won't be long before the hours of daylight increase, a warm and blustery hint of spring is in the air, and...

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

Picasso’s Grill Of Madison: Verily Impress Thy Valentine…All Weekend Long

Jimmie, Angela, and “Arise”...

Monday the 18th had been a whirlwind of celebrations centered around Martin Luther King’s birthday...

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January 22 - February 4, 2016

By Ali Elizabeth Turner Picasso’s Grill, located in the Publix shopping center on County Line Road, is busy putting the final touches on a menu that is designed to make Valentine’s Weekend

Continued on pages 17

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January 22 - February 4, 2016

Publisher’s Point

On The Prevention Of Perishing

Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Sales

David Henry

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Delivery

Hunter Williams

Contributing Writers Janet Hunt Lynne Hart Shelley Underhill SandraThompason Wanda Campbell Holly Hollman Jackie Warner Wayne Kuykendall Deb Kitchenmaster Dr. John Boyle Paul Foreman Roy Williams

As is the case with just about any type of publication in January, the prevailing theme is some kind of plan to set goals, hit reset, and start over, usually through the use of what is commonly referred to as New Year’s resolutions.

The first 2016 edition of Athens Now was no exception. We were full of recommendations for our city, our bodies, our brains, and our dogs.

And while at first blush the title of this article might not seem exactly cheery, if you’ll stick with me, you might find that this Publisher’s Point is a resolution in reverse, and if properly applied, will be useful in January, or any other time of year.

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 6 The View From The Bridge . . 8 From The Vets' Museum . . 10 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Shelley . . . . . 13 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 14 Cover Stories . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Fitness, Fiscally Speaking . . 16 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . 18 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 19

In the Old Testament, there are a number of warnings about perishing, and two of them to me are quite rich. Hosea, whose life as a man married to a harlot is a mind boggling reminder of our infidelity as humans, (as well as God’s faithfulness), said, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”

Great. What do we do?

How do we gain the kind of knowledge that keeps us from being destroyed, either as individuals, families, or a nation? Well, first of all, repentance is always good. Making things right with God and man will quickly get you in a position to be able to receive the kind of wisdom that comes from above, and to

Horse Whispering . . . . . 20 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Foreman's Forum . . . . . . . . 23

January 22 - February 4, 2016

then implement the second step.

The other bit of wisdom, which is more precious than gold or rubies, is to have a vision. “Where there is no vision, the people perish,” and that begs the question, does the converse have the opposite effect? Does having a vision prevent the people from perishing?

Well, in my view, yes and no. We could very well now be alive in a time when we will see many perish, at least physically.

Our nation’s leaders are acting like Neville Chamberlain of old, trying to appease “Hitler” by thinking that somehow a nation that has sworn to destroy both us and Israel has magically become our friend. “Death to America! Death to Israel!” shows up on Facebook more than one might think, and the leaders of Iran must be laughing all the way to the bank, or the centrifuge.

We are in a political season when presidential candidates are acting like petulant, insolent children, and our nation is badly divided over issues that used to be regarded by all as being the very essence of Constitutional common sense.

Vision, you say? Yes! Have a vision that is not in any way controlled by the actions of others. Anyone who has ever done any-

thing worthwhile, whether public or private, did it with a vision. They had to “see” what they wanted to have change, whether it was internally or externally first. Martin Luther King had his iconic dream.

Corrie Ten Boom lived through a death camp and travelled the globe restoring people through unfettered forgiveness. Viktor Frankl had a vision for helping people find fulfillment in life as a result of his having lived through Dachau.

George Bailey, the hero of It’s A Wonderful Life had a vision for the people of

Bedford Falls to be able to afford their own home.

While the story is fictional, the moral isn’t. Mayor Ronnie has a vision for a park where an abandoned plant stands. Frank Travis and Charlotte Fulton had a vision to tell the amazing story of Trinity School, and that vision will soon

be coming to pass.

The other half of the vision/perish equation is the happiness that comes from obeying God’s laws. Now, obviously, there is only One who has ever done that perfectly, but having a heart to seek God’s kingdom as well as His righteousness results in happi-

ness. It’s the other half of the promise, and it is the secret to the prevention of perishing. People have literally sung in the flames because they had a vision that was far beyond this realm, and they knew that the “Kingdom within,” though invisible, would never be destroyed. May your resolution this year result in having a vision that burns so brightly that it warms the many, and that no darkness can extinguish.

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

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All Things Soldier

Selling Out Our Sailors?

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

I have found, having lived in a combat zone, that the toughest things to endure are not what the enemy who is “outside the wire” tries to throw your way, it’s the stuff that comes from the people who are supposed to be “watching your six.” I do rest in the promise that “what is done in secret will be shouted from the roof tops,” and it seems that there was a recent slip of the tongue that exposed just what was done to our sailors in the Middle East by our administration when their ship encountered mechanical problems. As unbelievable as it sounds, they essentially turned them over to our arch enemies-turned“friends,” the Iranians.

This was probably not something that we were supposed to find out,

at least according to Representative Louie Gohmert, a Republican Congressman from Texas.

“I understand that (Secretary of State) John Kerry has indicated, look, when he got word, he and (Secretary of Defense) Ash Carter called the Iranians to help take care of our Navy guys, because they had some mechanical problems,” Gohmert said in an interview with Dana Loesch.

Called the Iranians?

Why would they do that?

Were they in fact hoping for what happened, that our sailors got arrested?

Were they at all concerned about our sailors while they were in captivity, worried for their safety? Were they thinking that this wouldn’t get out?

Representative Gohmert “When our Navy ships have problems, we don’t call Iran. We call the rest of the Navy. We can call the Air Force, the Army,

Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)

$7

February 16th

11am - 1pm and 5pm-7pm

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

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the Marines, Coast Guard. We don’t call Iran,” Gohmert said.

I don’t even know what to think. Does it matter to POTUS, SEC DEF and SEC STATE that the Iranians would have been able to go over the vessel with a fine tooth comb and gain access to all kinds of technology that could be used against us sooner than later?

Representative Gohmert said further, there are secrets on every military ship we have … that has [sic] no business being in the hands of the Iranians.” Senator John McCain weighed in as well.

He said, accused the administration of “pretending as if nothing out of the ordinary has occurred.”

The Secretary of State did his best to express his supposed outrage over the footage of our sol-

diers being made to kneel with their hands laced behind their heads, and he should. In an era when a similar sight could remind one of those who are about to be decapitated by ISIS, his use of the word “outrage” could have been anything from reasonable to strategic.

But the part that makes me feel the very most as though the inmates are running the asylum was that the sailors had to “apologize” to their captors.

Apologize? For the fact that they wandered into Iranian waters when their boat broke down? If, in fact, they ended up where they should not have been as a result of an illconceived mission, then I suppose that an apology might be in order. However, my gut tells me differently, and I hope I am wrong. Thankfully, time will tell all.

January 22 - February 4, 2016

l d d n o f d m . s s e s o -

Special Feature

Arise And Build

by Holly Hollman

The history of Trinity School will come to life onstage in February with the production of Arise and Build, a musical play depicting people and events in the life of the school founded in Athens, Alabama, in the weeks following the close of the Civil War and remaining, until it was closed during school desegregation more than a century afterward, Limestone County’s only high school for African-Americans.

Arise and Build will be staged at McCandless Hall on the campus of Athens State University at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 5th; 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 6th; and 3 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 7th.

Tickets are $20 each and can be purchased from Athens-Limestone Visitors Center, 100 N. Beaty Street, phone 256 2325411, or Kenny’s Kutz, 17308 U.S. Highway 72,

phone 256 444-1682.

In assembling a cast, director Frank Travis has called upon thespians with whom he has worked before in productions including To Kill a Mockingbird, Arsenic and Old Lace, Poke Sallet Follies, and Crowns.

The large cast, many of whom are also in the chorus, consists of some of Limestone County’s most talented vocalists, under the direction of Bryant Malone and John Malone Jr. of Committed Acappella Chorus. Theirs are the voices that comfort us at funerals,that uplift us in church, that inspire us at civic events. Five of the Arise and Build cast members performed to a soldout crowd in the 2013 production of Crowns. Most cast members have historical ties to Trinity, either as graduates or the descendants of graduates.

The premise of Arise and Build is this: The fictional

Courtesy photo. The fictional Fletcher family of Arise and Build takes a closer look at a refurbished fountain at Trinity High School.

Fletcher family, headed by patriarch James Fletcher (played by Denver Betts) returns to Athens to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Trinity School, James’s alma mater. James’s daughter Gloria (played by Cynthia Hines) and her two

t o r n e

I y m e

Courtesy photo. The fictional Fletcher family of Arise and Build returns to Athens to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Trinity School. From left are James (played by Denver Betts), Gloria (played by Cynthia Hines), Jatori (played by Rebecca Brooks), and Jamanti (played by Jaylon Hammonds).

January 22 - February 4, 2016

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children, Jatori (played by Rebecca Brooks) and Jamanti (played by Jaylon Hammonds), are initially reluctant to make the trip South. Gloria is busy organizing a fundraiser; Jamanti has sports tryouts; and Jatori has no interest in visiting a town with only one Starbucks. However, arriving in Athens and getting a glimpse into James’s experience at Trinity, they become inspired by the people and events that molded him.

Arise and Build is a production of AthensLimestone Community Association, presented in observance of Black History Month and in celebration of the recent ribbon-cutting for the Pincham-Lincoln Center, renovated from the remains of the school that closed in 1970. Proceeds go toward the operation of that facility. The play is based on the book, Holding the

Fort, by Charlotte Fulton.

Books, at $40 each, will be available for purchase during intermission.

Production director Carolyn Williams promises an evening of entertainment and inspiration.

“This is a story everyone can relate to,” says Williams. “Arise and Build has something for everyone: humor, beautiful music, and a compelling story.”

Learn more about Trinity and its people by picking up a copy of the history of Athens and Limestone County, Holding the Fort, by Charlotte Fulton.

This book is available at the Limestone County Archives, Athens-Limestone Visitors Center or by mailing your check ($40 per copy; add $7 postage and handling per copy) to ALCA, P.O. Box 1476, Athens, AL 35612.

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Calendar of Events Senior Lunch Matinee Show Jan 22nd

and trivia. Tickets are $3.00 each.

Yesterdays Event Center. 15631 Brownsferry Road, Athens, AL. Join Yesterdays for a complete lunch including drink and dessert for $11.00, and entertainment featuring The Sophisticated Swingers oldies group. Doors open 10:30AM, Event begins 11:00AM and showtime 12:00PM with a show length 60-75 minutes. Groups of all size welcome. Bus parking available. Cancellation fee may apply. Pre-reservation required, send reservation email to: Info@ YesterdaysEvents.com

One Year Celebration Jan 23rd

Iron Sharpens Iron Men's Conference Feb 5th

Clements Baptist Church. 8690 U.S. Highway 72, Athens, AL. Pastors Tim Anderson and Dusty McLemore will be the featured speakers of the conference. $20.00 per person. To reserve your spot: https://clements.regfox.com/mens-conference

Valentine's Gift Expo Feb 6th

Athens-Limestone County Public Library. 603 South Jefferson Street, Athens, AL. Please join the Friends of the Library from 10:00am-4:00PM as they mark the Library's first year in its new "home". Refreshments, book sale and more.

Vietnam Veterans of American Post. 17915 West Elm Street, Athens, AL. Join over 30 vendors from 9:00AM-3:00PM and find a gift for your valentine. Kids craft table featuring valentine projects. Concession and door prizes including a $50 Visa Gift Card giveaway. For more information: vendorshowinathens@ yahoo.com

Fandemonium: Shadowhunters Jan 25th

First Aid For Horses Feb 6th

Athens-Limestone County Public Library. 603 South Jefferson Street, Athens, AL. Teens are invited to Fandemonium to share their passion and knowledge about their favorites. Fun games and crafts will be centered around this month's feature: Shadowhunters.

No registration necessary.

January Mystery Book Club Jan 28th

Steelcase Board Room. 603 South Jefferson Street, Athens, AL. Enjoy a good mystery? Come to the library and join the Mystery Book Club at 6:00PM for discussion and fellowship. This month's featured book: Feint of Art by Hailey Lind. For more information: Mrs. Laura 256-232-1233.

Alabama Baptist Religious Education Association Conference Jan 28th - 29th

Lindsay Lane Baptist Church. 1300 Lindsay Lane, Athens, AL. Alabama Baptist Religious Education Association and is open individuals with discipleship responsibilities in churches affiliated with Alabama Baptists. The conference will offer two days of fellowship, information and speakers. $50 Conference/ Membership Fee. For more info: www.abrea.org/next.htm

Harry Potter Book Night Party Feb 4th

Athens-Limestone County Public Library. 306 South Jefferson Street, Athens, AL. Harry Potter fans of all ages are invited from 6:00PM-7:30PM to celebrate the literary world of Harry Potter.

Come dressed in your finest wizard or muggle attire. Practice spells visit the Three Broomsticks for snacks, participate in games Page 6

Dixon Stables. 24390 Bain Road, Athens, AL. Reservation deadline February 3rd. Join Dr. Roy Morring at 10:30AM for first aid topics for horses including: Head and Eye Injury, Bandaging for Lower Limbs, Items to Keep On Hand, and When Stitches are Required. $25.00 per/person or $35.00 per team of 2. Cost includes lunch and materials to do hands on bandaging. For more information or register: Lisa Musto 256-683-0732.

Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball Feb 6th

Joe Wheeler State Park. 4403 McLean Drive, Rogersville, AL. Laissez les bons temps rouler -- Let the good times roll as carnival comes to Joe Wheeler State Park. Grab your mask and masquerade best and enjoy a package that features a room for Saturday night, party and party favors for two on Saturday night, breakfast for two Sunday morning and all taxes and gratuities for $99.00. Book now> http://www.alapark.com/Joe-Wheeler-State-Park-MardiGras-Masquerade

Valentine's with Yesterdays Feb 13th

Yesterday's Event Center. 15631 Brownsferry Road, Athens, AL. Treat your sweetheart to a candlelit dinner with intimate seating, a complete Rib-eye Steak/BBQ Chicken Dinner with all the fixins. Enjoy a whirl on the dance floor to your favorite romantic selections featuring a live band. Doors open and dinner service begins at 6:00PM with the show beginning at 7:00PM. Meal and show are $30.00 each. Reservations required, parties of 2 will receive a private table large groups will be accommodated in group seating. Cancellation fee of $15.00 per seat for non-attendance or cancellation without 48-hour notice. Email reservations to: Info@ YesterdaysEvents.com

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January 22 - February 4, 2016

January 22 - February 4, 2016

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The View From The Bridge

Brrr… Winter Has Arrived!

by Jackie Warner Jackie Warner

Community Outreach “Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters

Christmas Eve, I was all dressed up with short sleeves, capri pants and sun glasses. This definitely was not typical weather for us, but now winter has finally decided to arrive! Pull out the long johns, sweaters, boots, and hats!

As winter sets in, it brings with it low temperatures, snow, ice, and lots of unwanted health issues. Let’s take a moment to ensure your loved ones are prepared to be safe and healthy!

Remember little children have no clue about the weather, so it is up to us to keep them warm and to prevent as much as possible those dreadful colds and ear infections. Extra attention is needed because they

are less likely to recognize when they are cold. They are also more likely to lose their body heat quicker because of their smaller sizes. As parents, teachers, grandparents and guardians, remember these tips to keep them healthy during our winter months: 1.Hand washing, hand washing, hand washing! Cold and flu viruses are not only airborne, but live on surfaces as well.

Washing your hands is the single most effective way of decreasing your risk of infection!

2.Think layers. Dress infants and children warmly. Several thin layers will keep them dry and warm. Don't forget warm boots, gloves or mittens, and a hat.

3.Beware of clothing hazards. Scarves and hood strings can strangle smaller children, so use other clothing to keep them warm.

4.Increase immune boosting foods and drinks. Immune boosting foods and drinks keep the body well-nourished so when viruses do strike, the immune system has fuel to work efficiently. Immune boosting foods include things such as garlic, ginger, fresh green juices, and foods packed full of vitamin C (like cut orange slices) are a great addition to your weekly meal planning.

5.Keep them hydrated.

In drier winter air, kids lose more water through their breath. Keep them drinking and try giving them warm drinks.

6.Limit outdoor activities. Kids are at risk for frostbite and hypothermia, so have them come inside to warm up at regular intervals.

7.Watch

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for

danger

signs. Signs of hypothermia are shivering, slurred speech, and unusual clumsiness. If you think your child has hypothermia call 9-1-1 immediately.

8.Install alarms. More household fires happen during the winter than any other time of year, so make sure you have smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in your home. If your home already has these alarms, test to make sure they are working properly.

Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional Jackie Warner, Community Outreach Specialist Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com Check out upcoming events: Website: http://thebridge-us. yolasite.com/

January 22 - February 4, 2016

January 22 - February 4, 2016

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From the Alabama Veterans’ Museum

AMVETS

by Sandra Thompson, Director, Alabama Veterans’ Museum

This will be the second article in a series I will be featuring about our local Veterans’ organizations. I hope to bring to light some of the wonderful programs these organizations offer that many may not know about. I would like to introduce you to the American Veterans (AMVETS). As one of America’s leading veteran’s service organizations with over 250,000 members, AMVETS has a proud history of assisting veterans and sponsoring numerous programs that serve our country and its citizens. Membership

in AMVETS is open to anyone who is currently serving, or who has honorably served, in the U.S. Armed Forces from World War II to the present, to include the National Guard and Reserves.

Our local Post, MimsRussell Post 21 was established on December 17, 2009 and is currently the only active post in northern Alabama.

Post 21 serves Veterans in Limestone County / Tennessee River Valley areas, including the communities of Athens, Decatur, Hartselle, Huntsville, Madison, Moulton, and all sur-

rounding areas. AMVETS Post 21 is dedicated as a memorial to the two fallen Athens Alabama Police Officers killed in the line of duty, Sergeant Larry Russell and Officer Tony Mims.

The mission of AMVETS is to enhance and safeguard the entitlements for all American Veterans who have served honorably and to improve the quality of life for them, their families, and the communities where they live through leadership, advocacy, and services. One of the most visible programs is the network of trained national service officers

(NSOs) accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Funded by the AMVETS National Service Foundation, these dedicated men and women can be found in close to 50 states, providing sound advice and prompt action on compensation claims at no charge to the veteran. In one recent year alone, AMVETS national service officers processed more than 74,000 claims, “In addition to supporting national programs, we have a lot going on,” says Finance Officer, Larry Stark. “We are responsible for hanging up and taking down

the flags for the Flags over Athens Program.

These flags are flown in Athens on patriotic holidays to honor and remember our Veterans.

Flags are still available for purchase. We are also always looking for volunteers to help with this program. Post 21 recognizes our future leaders through the Junior ROTC awards program. Also this year, we will be starting the Americanism essay contest for students in 9th grade, the winner of which will receive a free trip to Valley Forge through the Freedoms Foundation.” Look for more information to come on this program.

With an AMVETS membership, one is entitled to a number of benefits and discounts on everything from insurance to vacation packages. For a detailed list, check the AMVETS website at AMVETS.org.

Commander Mike Hardy invites you to come to a meeting and find out more about this worthwhile organization.

Meetings are held on the third Thursday of the month at the Post building which is located at 22679 Black Road in Athens. Meetings begin at 7:00 pm.

Please call 256-4442793 for information about becoming a member or helping out with any of these programs.

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January 22 - February 4, 2016

January 22 - February 4, 2016

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Clean and Green

We Are About To Get VERY Busy!

by Lynne Hart

It won't be long before the hours of daylight increase, a warm and blustery hint of spring is in the air, and Athens and Limestone County come to life with activities!

KALB has officially put fall behind us and we are looking toward our spring events. We get excited because there is so much good accomplished during this time. Adults and children are educated about our impact on the environment we rely on to survive.

Our precious water resource, the Elk River, gets the attention it so richly deserves. Best of all, we have the opportunity to talk one on one with our neighbors who share this piece of the earth with us.

Here are a few of our upcoming events: Home and Garden Show March 11th and 12th Stop by our booth to see what's new in the world of recycling, litter abatement, beautification, and environmental education. We love to visit with you.

I am pleased to share that the Alabama Forestry Commission - Limestone County Division will be procuring seedlings for us again this year. We will be giving them away to Limestone County residents at the Home and Garden Show. When

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we learn what variety of seedlings will be coming our way, we will share that information.

KALB has been asked to participate in the Kids Area again this year.

From Noon to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, we will be helping children plant seeds to take home, care for, and watch grow.

There might also be a visit from Sparky, our mascot!

Elk River Canoe & Kayak Trail Cleanup April 2nd Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has agreed to sponsor our cleanup again this year! That means the group competition for cash prizes of $250, $150, and $100 is ON! We have made an important change for this year.

The group weights will be divided by the number of group members participating, and that number will be used to determine the winners.

This will allow small groups an even playing field with larger groups to compete for the prizes.

Registration is open.

You will find the event on the Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful Facebook page. Information and links to documents can be found at www.KALBCares.com under the Event tab.

Earth Day & Outdoor EXPO April 30th

This will be our 8th Earth Day event, and we are so proud of how it has grown and how the community has embraced it as a "must see" event!

KALB has been invited to use the grounds of Friendship Church on Lucas Ferry Rd. in Athens. We are grateful and excited about this because the large property will allow us to expand our activities! We will also have the buildings available for "inside" activities and in case of inclement weather, which means no more

Alabama's injured and orphaned native birds.

As experts, they will provide great information on the proper steps to take if you should find an injured bird. The Tennessee Valley Zoo will be returning to this year's event. Everyone had a great time petting, feeding, and learning about the variety of animals they brought with them.

The Earth Day planning team has many more possibilities in the works, so stay tuned!

Our sponsors are cru-

cial to making this the most successful event it can be. Exhibitors are also invited to register for a space. All exhibitors must have an environmental education piece to their display, have earth-friendly products or services to share, information on healthy living, or have information on outdoor activities in the North Alabama area. If you would like more information on sponsorship opportunities or exhibitor spaces, please contact us or visit our website.

scrambling for a rain location.

The Alabama Wildlife Center, a champion of birds since 1977, will be joining us this year for the first time, bringing with them a variety of raptors. AWC rescues, rehabilitates, and returns to the wild

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(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com January 22 - February 4, 2016

Cooking with Shelley

Mile High Corn Bread

by Shelley Underhill Ever make a mistake and have it turn out to be in your favor?

Well... that’s what happened to me!

Recently I mistakenly grabbed a Jiffy Lemon cake mix for a box of Jiffy corn muffin mix! I poured two boxes of corn muffin mix and a lemon cake mix into my mixer, added the ingredients times three on the corn muffin mix box...and let-err RIP! As it baked, it filled the house with a lemony aroma. At the same

time my family and I were having a debate on just how high this corn bread was gonna rise. I had even used my new red casserole dish and wondered if that could have added to its height.

Finely, I checked the boxes and to my surprise, yes lemon cake mix. We didn’t know if we should eat it as dessert or what...I think we did a little of both. Try it, it was great...I plan to make it again.

Mile High Corn Bread 2 boxes Jiffy corn muffin mix 1 box Jiffy lemon cake mix Combine all together, use the recipe from back of the corn muffin box times three. Bake at 350 until you can stick a toothpick into it, and it comes out clean. Enjoy!

January 22 - February 4, 2016

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Health and Fitness

Gardening For Mental And Physical Fitness

by Janet Hunt

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

I realize it is early in the year and we will probably have at least two more months of cold weather, but as a Master Gardener, I am always thinking about gardening! Also, because I am an ACE certified Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor, fitness is another thing that is always on my mind.

The next session of Master Gardener classes begins on February 4th, and we still have some openings available. The classes in the winter/spring meet every Thursday morning from 9am to 1:30pm for 13 weeks, whereas the fall classes meet every Thursday evening. Most of the classes meet at Belle Mina. These classes are a combination of Morgan County, Limestone County and Madison County students. Classes are taught by college professors, county extension people, state Master Gardeners, and other professionals. The topics include just about everything from soils, to fruit and vegetables, to grass, and flowers. For more infor-

mation regarding the classes and Master Gardeners, visit the Master Gardener website (www.mg.aces.edu) or call me at 256-614-3530.

Gardening offers both mental and physical health benefits.

Being out in nature, (whether it is on your back patio, out in the woods or in the mountains,) is very relaxing and healing. Gardening is associated with mental clarity, feelings of reward, and offers physical benefits. From soil preparation to the joy of harvesting, there is always a task! If you have ever done any gardening, you know this is great exercise.

Whether you enjoy working in your own private garden or community garden projects, gardening is great for fitness.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), moderate-intensity level activity for 2.5 hours each week can reduce the risk for obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, heart disease, stroke, depression, colon cancer and

premature death. The CDC considers gardening a moderate-intensity level activity, and can help you to achieve that 2.5 hour goal each week. Additionally, those who choose gardening as their moderateintensity exercise are more likely to exercise 40-50 minutes longer on average than those who choose activities like walking or biking. In addition to the physical activity, you can get your vitamin D. The most natural way to get vitamin D is by exposing your bare skin to sunlight (ultraviolet B rays). This can happen very quickly, particularly in the summer.

The type of exercise you get by gardening are the things you need to continue to do in everyday life – bending, kneeling, reaching, carrying objects, pulling, and pushing. Gardening is a great way to incorporate the entire body while exercising.

Let’s not forget about the mental benefits of gardening!

Many experts say the fresh

air can help prevent Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which is a disorder common in all age groups.

Gardening has also been shown to be a stress reliever.

Stress can cause irritability, headaches, stomach aches, heart attacks and worsen other pre-existing conditions in the

body. Experiments have compared gardening to reading as a stress-relieving activity.

Test subjects that gardened experienced a more significant decrease in stress when compared to the subjects that were assigned to read. Of course, we already know that physical exercise helps your brain stay sharp. It increases oxygen to your brain and reduces the risk for disorders that lead to memory loss. Exercise also enhances the effects of helpful brain chemicals and reduces stress hormones.

Finally, if the mental and physical benefits are not enough to encourage you to garden, there are other things like increased property value. Also, if you grow your own vegetables, you might save money on your grocery bill!

If you want more information about Master Gardener classes, contact Janet at 256-6143530 or call your local extension office at 256-232-5510.

Happy Gardening!

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January 22 - February 4, 2016

Cover Story

NEWtritional Health Care, LLC: “Let’s Build Your Health In 2016”

by Roy Williams Over the last few years, we have formulated a product called Test/Up, which has proven to be effective for both men and women in naturally raising testosterone. With Test/Up, you don’t have to worry about developing an overload because your body will manufacture only what it needs.

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most effective supplemental products ever produced.

Roy Williams, president and CEO, has helped formulate over 40 products, of which 37 are patented.

Roy also owns Herbs & More in Athens, and NHC Herb Shop in Killen.

When your body has the right amount of testosterone, you will burn more body fat, your energy levels will soar, and muscles will become stronger.

Another great benefit is clearer thinking, stronger sexual desire, and the drive to get things done.

Weight Loss Answers In this edition, Roy wants to explain their newest and maybe the most exciting weight loss program ever.

For years, NEWtritional Health Care has helped thousands lose weight with nutrition by firing up their metabolism, decreasing their appetite, and helping with blood sugar levels.

All of those are important factors when losing weight, but a couple of new applications have surfaced that Dr. Oz and other specialists are excited about. One is an herb called Garcinia Cambogia, which helps prevent the body from storing sugar in the fat cells.

Americans eat way too much sugar and starch, (which is turned to sugar in the body), making it almost impossible to lose weight.

Sugar is the body’s energy source, and when it is consumed will not be eliminated. Sugar is either immediately burned for energy, or stored in fat cells to be utilized later. The problem is that we continue to put sugar in without ever burning what is being stored. As a result, a whopping 84% of Americans are considered overweight, and almost 30% are considered obese.

One study showed that around 12% of the children under age 18 are obese.

When a person takes Slender, which contains Garcinia Cambogia with 80% HCA, (which stands for hydroxycitic acid), less sugar will be stored in fat cells.

The way it works is the Garcinia Cambogia blocks the enzyme that tells the fat cells to store the sugar. The sugar stays in the blood stream longer to be burned.

Slender not only keeps you from storing sugar, but many report a nice improvement in energy. That happens because the amount of sugar in your blood stays a little higher so you have more energy to burn. Garcinia Cambogia has also been shown to help the body maintain better blood sugar levels, which may explain the reduction in cravings.

The second important strategy for losing weight is to maintain higher testosterone levels. As we age, testosterone levels in both men and women decline. That explains why it is so much easier for a man or woman to maintain a slender body when they are under the age of 35. As the levels drop, we begin to gain weight.

January 22 - February 4, 2016

At this time, I am 60 years old. When I turned 56, I began gaining weight around my waist and even though I was still exercising and eating healthfully, I couldn’t lose the extra fat.

At 59, I began taking Test/ Up. It didn’t take long before I had more energy, my attitude improved, and in three months the roll around my waist disappeared. Today I have a six pack, which you can see in the picture with me standing next to my son Seth.

Women and Testosterone Most women are surprised to learn that they need testosterone. Not only do women need testosterone, when their levels are low, their energy level drops, sexual desire decreases, they gain weight and their moods go south.

In just 2 weeks on Slender and Test/Up the results are remarkable. One lady told me that her husband said, “I don’t care what it is you are taking, just don’t run out.”

Men will tend to gain the weight around the waist, and women will gain it around the waist, hips and thighs.

Many people will go to their doctor and have their testosterone levels checked. At NEWtritional Health Care, we believe that God designed your body to manufacture the amount of testosterone it needs. We also believe that it will, as long as it has the raw materials it takes to do so.

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To learn more about these two exclusive products, go

by Herbs & More in Athens, or NHC Herb Shop in Killen. If you would like to book an appointment with Roy, call 256-233-0073, or send him an email at trivaren1@gmail.com.

Slender and Test/Up

“Buy one, Get one FREE” Bring this coupon to Herbs & More in Athens or NHC Herb Shop in Killen so you can purchase Test/Up at regular price and receive a bottle of Slender absolutely FREE. Limit one coupon per customer. Offer is not good with any other discount.

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Fitness, Fiscally Speaking

Charitable Giving: Leave a Legacy

By Wayne Kuykendall, Financial Services Representative with Strategic Financial Partners, an office of MetLife.

For millions of Americans, “charity begins at home.” That’s where they’ve decided to make a difference by donating money to local religious, educational, social, or cultural organizations.

In addition to the immense satisfaction that comes from giving to others, when done as part of an overall estate plan, charitable giving can provide tax benefits for the donor and his or her estate.

Charitable Gifts of Life Insurance Gifts of life insurance have some unique advantages: •Life insurance is a contract and passes outside the will by beneficiary

designation, so it generally cannot be contested in probate proceedings.

•Since the payment of a life insurance policy death benefit to a named beneficiary other than decedent’s estate is not part of the probate process, it is private, not a matter of public record like assets passing by will.

•Donor is eligible for an income tax charitable deduction when he/she transfers an existing life insurance policy to charity.

•Ability to leverage a charitable donation through the death benefit.

•There are no probate delays.

•Other assets are kept in-

tact for the donor’s family.

Gifts of life insurance can be made in essentially two ways. Under the first, the insured is the owner of the policy and the charity is the beneficiary. This arrangement is used when an insured/ donor desires to retain control over the insurance policy. Under this arrangement, the premiums paid are not eligible for an income tax charitable deduction.

Additionally, since the insured owns the policy at death, the death benefit will be includable in his or her gross estate under IRC Section 2042, but it will be 100% deductible from the estate, since it is payable to a charity (IRC

Section 2055).

Under the second, the charity is owner and beneficiary. Unlike the situation where the insured retains ownership, the premium may be income tax-deductible within IRS guidelines.

State “insurable interest” laws must be checked to determine if a charity can be the initial applicant of life insurance on the life of a donor.

If the donor gives an existing policy to charity, the lesser of the fair market value of the policy or the policyholder’s basis (generally the premiums paid) is eligible for an income tax charitable deduction. (See IRC Section 170(e)(1)(A), Treas.

Reg. 25.2512-6(a) and

Tuttle v. U.S., 436 F.2d 69 (2d Cir. 1970). Additionally, future gifts of cash to the charity for premium payment purposes are also eligible for an income tax charitable deduction within IRS guidelines.

Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs) If the prospective charitable donor is looking for a way to generate income, reduce estate and income taxes, defer taxes on gains, and make a significant charitable contribution without reducing his or her family’s inheritance, a charitable remainder trust and a wealth replacement trust may be the right tools. These

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About the MetLife Premier Client Group

information, visit www.metlife.com.

The MetLife Premier Client Group (MPCG) provides consumers and small businesses with access to local financial professionals across the United States who can provide advice and guidance tailored to their financial needs. MPCG financial professionals stand out in the market for their holistic financial strategies, their team-oriented approach to client service and their adherence to a core financial planning philosophy that helps clients both grow and safeguard their assets. MPCG’s highly trained and credentialed representatives provide their clients with a wide range of services, including wealth management, retirement planning, estate planning and small business planning. For more information, please visit www.metlife.com/premier.

The MetLife Premier Client Group is a distribution channel of Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MLIC), New York, NY 10166. Securities and investment advisory services offered through MetLife Securities, Inc. (MSI) (member FINRA/ SIPC) and a registered investment adviser, 1095 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036. MLIC and MSI are MetLife companies.

About MetLife MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET), through its subsidiaries and affiliates (“MetLife”), is one of the largest life insurance companies in the world. Founded in 1868, MetLife is a global provider of life insurance, annuities, employee benefits and asset management. Serving approximately 100 million customers, MetLife has operations in nearly 50 countries and holds leading market positions in the United States, Japan, Latin America, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. For more

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Pursuant to IRS Circular 230, MetLife is providing you with the following notification: The information contained in this document is not intended to (and cannot) be used by anyone to avoid IRS penalties. This document supports the promotion and marketing of insurance products. You should seek advice based on your particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor.

MetLife, its agents, and representatives may not give legal or tax advice. Any discussion of taxes herein or related to this document is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be complete or cover every situation. Tax law is subject to interpretation and change. Tax results and the appropriateness of any product for any specific taxpayer may vary depending on the facts and circumstances. You should consult with and rely on your own independent legal and tax advisers regarding your particular set of facts and circumstances.

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January 22 - February 4, 2016

Cover Story

Picasso’s Grill Of Madison: Verily Impress Thy Valentine…All Weekend Long

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

of 2016 most memorable. Remember, guys, this is Leap Year, (when old Irish tradition allows a woman to propose to a man) so be prepared to be swept off your feet by your feminine companion as well as the food. Turn around is fair play, too, during a holiday where “all is fair in love and war,” so let the games begin!

Picasso’s is also in the process of rolling out a brand new menu, but for the purposes of this article, we are going to highlight the Valentine’s menu.

There will be three new appetizers, and I can speak from experience that it is easy to have a trio of Picasso’s appetizers function as a complete meal. The first is a seared Ahi tuna filet, carefully placed on a sliced cucumber, topped with shaved ginger, scallions, and finished with a Ponzu sauce.

Ponzu is a citrus soy sauce traditionally used in Japanese cuisine. For Wasabi lovers, there will be wasabi encircling the dish, artfully presented.

For something a tad heartier, you can choose beef short ribs served over a homemade cheddar grit cake, and topped with Bolognese sauce. Bolognese, (pronounced boloneYEZ-uh) is a beef reduction sauce with a touch of marinara, vegetables and cheese.

The cheddar grit cake makes it truly Southern.

Last on the special appetizer list is the artichoke stuffed with three cheeses: cream cheese, goat cheese, and asiago.

Talking with Picasso’s owner, Matthew Crawford, about the Valentine’s entrees made my mouth water, and I was a “goner” by the time we got to dessert!

My all time favorite meat is lamb, something we don’t typically see a lot of in the

South. Picasso’s is going to offer a French rack of lamb, individually portioned “cooked to perfection,” Matt says, served over a roasted rosemary potato, with honey glazed carrots, and for a garni, mint jelly.

For seafood lovers, an ample portabella mushroom is going to be stuffed with generous lumps of crab, fired in the oven, served with Ratatouille and smashed, fried mozzarella.

If you are more of a traditionalist, there will be prime rib with all of the trimmings including fresh horseradish, homemade

January 22 - February 4, 2016

au jus, and a twice baked potato. If you are feeling adventuresome, there is hardly more of an elegant entree than duck à l’orange served in a Grand Mariner sauce, which is the last of the entrees to round out the special menu.

As lovers of Picasso’s are well aware, the fresh produce and meats are procured as often as possible from local sources, and everything is made there at the restaurant. Supporting our local economy is very important to Matt and his wife Michelle, who started Picasso’s in Athens in 2012 before moving to the larger location in Madison last fall.

Then we came to the desserts.

All of them will be home made, and I think it will nearly possible to experience “death by chocolate” if you don’t exercise some restraint.

There will be strawberries dipped in dark and white chocolate. The sorbet will

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be made from blood orange, raspberries, and strawberries, and will be served with some fancy French cookies, which of course will have some chocolate on them as part of the experience. Matthew decided on a triple chocolate trifle, topped with Bailey’s cream.

If having the chance to celebrate the holiday on Friday the 12th through Sunday the 14th is not enough for you, on Sunday morning and afternoon of Valentine’s Day itself Picasso’s will be offering what they are calling a “Lover’s Brunch.” All kinds of romantic sounding and delicious items will be offered, starting with French Kiss Toast, chicken and waffles, eggs Benedict, (either made with the traditional Canadian bacon or wild salmon), with mimosas and Picasso’s signature Bloody Mary, which is nearly a meal in itself.

I can truly say that a great deal of thought, work, and creativity is going into this Leap Year Valentine’s celebration, and while I was there observing the “artist at work,” Matthew received a call for a very large reservation for the event. Word is getting around quickly in regard to the “local treasure” that is Picasso’s Grill, and I would strongly recommend that you make your reservation soon.

Picasso’s is a place that is family owned, family friendly, a place that is like “Cheers,” and, in short, one which will make you cheer on Valentine’s Day in 2016.

12060 County Line Road, Madison, AL 35756 Hours: 11-11 Tue-Sun, 3-11 on Mon Facebook: Picasso’s Grill Web: www.picassosgrill.com

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Learning As A Lifestyle

Never Stop Learning

by Wanda Campbell

Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 I know it is cold outside and the weather is miserable this time of year.

These frigid days are a good time to curl up with a good book. If you don’t mind getting out on these cold nights, I suggest the Athens State Book Club meetings.

The Athens State Library sponsors a book discussion group that meets once a month during the fall and spring semesters. Anyone is welcome! Reading selections are chosen by members. There are no fees, and there is no pressure to join or participate. Meetings are held at the Center for Lifelong Learning on the scheduled day at 7:00 pm.

The February selection, “K Blows Top: A Cold War Comic Interlude Starring Nikita Khrushchev, America’s Most Unlikely Tourist,” written by Peter Carlsen, will be discussed on Tuesday, February 16.

The book chronicles Khrushchev’s 1959 trip across America. If history is not your thing, you might prefer the March selection “Silas Marner” by George Eliot which will be dis-

cussed on March 15.

If reading doesn’t ring your chimes, the Center is offering other events you might consider.

The first is the Hand Gun Safety Course. In the first session, Thursday, January 28, from 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm, you will learn liability and

handgun laws in Alabama, the psychology of defense, handling and storage issues, how to

maintain your handgun, how to hold your hand gun, and the fundamentals of handguns. This session of the class will be held at the Center for Lifelong Learning and refreshments will be provided.

The second session, Saturday, January 30, from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm,

will be taught at the firing range. You will receive directions from the instructor on Thursday.

Remember to bring your handgun to class both days. DO NOT bring your handgun loaded; remove the ammunition prior to entering the building. You will need to bring your ammunition with you to the range.

The fee for the Hand Gun Safety Course is $65 per

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person. You can register in person at the Center, by calling 256-233-8260 or go online at www.athens.edu/CLL.

Athens. Bring your best friend or beau and bask in the warmth of friendship and “sweet melodies.”

Another event is the Sweet Melodies Valentine Lunch, which is scheduled for Friday, February 12, from 11:30 am – 1:00 pm, at the Center. On a day when

The fee for this event is $40/couple. You can register in person at the Center or call 256-2338260 or go online at www.athens.edu/CLL.

romance is in the air, nothing will warm your heart more than sweet melodies sung the way they were meant to be.

Join us for a wonderful lunch event and music provided by Barry Kay. Kay was born in Huntsville and raised in Lacey's Spring, Alabama.

He graduated college with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Birmingham-Southern College and is a local favorite in

One other class offered in February is the Business 101 course, cosponsored with the Decatur Morgan County Entrepreneurial Center. This is an all-inclusive 9-week class that includes real world expertise from small business owners. Participants will be involved in strategic planning and the establishment of a solid foundation It is designed for entrepreneurs with a new business start-up, for owners of a growing business, employees of small business that desire to add value and support in their job, and anyone desiring knowledge of entrepreneurship and how to start a business.

This class is offered on Mondays, February 22 – April 25, from 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm, at the Center for Lifelong Learning.

The fee is $350 per person. You can register in person at the Center or call 256-233-8260 or go online at www.athens. edu/CLL. Keep watching the website for more classes in March, and never stop learning.

January 22 - February 4, 2016

What Makes Ronnie Roll

Jimmie, Angela, and “Arise”

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Monday the 18th had been a whirlwind of celebrations centered around Martin Luther King’s birthday. Sweet Home Church once again had been the host for the ceremony (or more accurately, “service”), and the Round Island Men’s Choir “tore it up,” as they always do.

However, someone very special was missing, and that was the “Jimmie” of this article. Veteran Athens City Councilman Jimmie Gill is in a serious “street fight” with cancer, and Mayor Ronnie, wanting to be respectful of Jimmie’s privacy, asked him, “Jimmie, what do you want me to tell caring people who call this office?” Jimmie’s response was as follows: “Tell them I am battling stage 2 cancer, and am starting chemo on Jan 25th.”

But, the unsinkable Mr. Gill was not through—he also said, “I plan to whip this and be a candidate in 2016!” Mayor Ronnie then added, “We really missed Jimmie. It just wasn’t the same without him.”

The Fort. The play is going to be presented at Athens State University on Friday, February 5th, Saturday the 6th, and Sunday the 7th. For more information, see Holly Hollman’s Special Feature on page 5. “This is a big deal,” said Mayor Ronnie, and he added, “we have so much cooperation and support in our community that comes from business, the schools, the County, and the citizens.” We celebrated the “unscripted healing” that has taken place in our community because good

hearted folks have chosen to do the right thing. We agreed we could use a serious dose of “arising and building” all over our nation.

We were then off to something that was genuinely stunning, and that was the Sankofa African-American Museum on Wheels, exhibited in the Athens State University ballroom on January 19th and 20th.

The “rolling museum” was part of the Livingston Concert Series. It is the lifetime labor of love collected by Angela Jennings, and we could have

stayed all day. There were heavy shackles used on slave ships which she had procured at auctions held

by Christie’s and Sothby’s. There were original receipts for the purchase of slaves, Tuskegee Airmen memorabilia, kente cloth made out of silk, displays of invaluable inventions (such as the cell phone), which were made

by African Americans, and so much more. “Every dime that I have has gone into this, “she said, and she is gone from her home in Denmark, SC for more than 300 days of the

Every year, our school system has an essay contest in connection with Martin Luther King’s birthday, and there were 48 entries. It is significant to note that 30 of the 48 were from Julian Newman Elementary School.

We talked about Arise And Build, the original play being produced by Frank Travis and Charlotte Fulton, based on Charlotte’s book on the history of Trinity School as commemorated in Holding

January 22 - February 4, 2016

Angela Jennings of the Sankofa African-American Museum on Wheels and Mayor Ronnie hold shackles that are several hundred years old.

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year making sure people have a chance to see it.

It was my pleasure to hear Mayor Ronnie tell her about Judge Horton’s decision to put everything on the line right here in the Limestone County Courthouse to see to it that the Scottsboro Boys got justice, and to watch her soak in the benefit of that act of bravery. It was also my pleasure to tell her about getting the chance to personally attend the last of the 16th Street Church bombing trials when I first got here, and to again see her enjoy the fruit of justice being served. But the true twinkle in her wise, soft eyes came when I told her what kind of history was made when the Swampers were Aretha Franklin’s back-up band when she recorded her breakout hit “I Ain’t Never Loved A Man” at Fame Studio in Muscle Shoals. She promised me she would get the DVD of Muscle Shoals from PBS and devour it.

It was time for Ronnie “to roll” to the Youth Commission Meeting, and I stayed behind for awhile to experience the depth and beauty of Ms. Angela. We talked, hugged, prayed, sang, and had church. I finally tore myself away, so proud to be a citizen of Athens. Ms. Angela said she had been “treated like royalty,” and I was not surprised, because this is not just how Mayor Ronnie rolls, this is how WE roll.

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Horse Whispering

Shift Happens Have you ever been under the impression that you had the best interest of someone or something in mind only to discover that it wasn’t? Really, who hasn’t? That’s part of our journey of discovery and awakening.

While in Colorado Springs, CO I noticed a clever bumper sticker; “SHIFT HAPPENS.” I liked it!

I thought of Edward Lorenz, who presented a hypothesis to the New York Academy of Science in 1963. He simply stated his theory that a butterfly could flap its wings and set molecules of air in motion, which would move other molecules of air, in turn moving more molecules of air that eventually was capable of starting a hurricane on the other side of the planet. Of course, he was considered crazy, he was mocked, and the conference thought his

proposal was ridiculous.

However, more than thirty years later, physics professors working from colleges and universities worldwide concluded that the butterfly effect was authentic, accurate, and viable. How interesting! Now known as The Law of Sensitive Dependence Upon Initial Conditions, this principal has proven to be a force enveloping more than butterfly wings. Shift Happens.

I would like to share two shifts I have had in my thinking with our horses here at Corral Connections.

The first one has to do with minerals and salt; the second with worming.

I came across a quote from a man known as Dr. Dan the Natural Vet. He says, “Did you know that most commercial salt and minerals are either ‘man made’ or some other industry’s waste

by Deb Kitchenmaster product? Did you know that blocks for horses, and others for that matter, are almost useless and potentially dangerous! They just can’t get what they need, when they need it, fast enough, by trying to lick or

to as “living clay” because it consists of minerals that enhance the production of enzymes in all living organisms.

Perhaps this “shift” (a decision to feed loose salt/minerals) could be the “single-most healthy thing you can do for your horse.”

Let’s talk about worming.

All horses don’t have worms no matter what type of fear tactics you

chew from a block! When the weather changes sudden imbalances in the grass can occur. Horses must be able to get what they need when they need it! Period!”

The “shift” I made was to remove all salt and mineral blocks from our ranch. I am using Red Cal, a brand that has a prized ingredient, montmorillonite clay – a rich source of trace and other minerals. It is referred

might be presented with.

Now, bear with me, please.

Is it possible we are over worming our horses? How do I know when to worm

and what wormer to use?

What if I, as a steward over horses, considered each individual horse and wormed as needed, rather than worm as programmed or scheduled? Would this “shift” benefit my horse?

Is it possible to save some money and have a ‘safe’ worming awareness? Yes! It is. The “shift” is to simply check a fecal sample before you deworm. Your vet can do this. I work with a vet that is ‘natural solutions’ minded.

For twelve dollars, I send fecal matter to be checked for worm count. Depending on these results/facts I decide whether to deworm or not. If there is a need to deworm, I will re-check that horse two to three weeks after deworming for effectiveness. For more information on either Red Cal or naturally timed deworming, contact me at www.corralconnections.com.

I realize that mindsets and traditions die hard. I simply hope that I have made you thirsty enough to drink from the fountain of meaning and purpose, knowing your actions have value far greater than “we’ve always done it that way.”

Pass the salt, please.

Your NEIGHbor, Deb Kitchenmaster Corral Connections: Connecting with LIFE through a horse Animal B.E.S.T practitioner dkitchenmaster@mchsi.com

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January 22 - February 4, 2016

Fitness, Fiscally Speaking (cont'd)

Charitable Giving: Leave a Legacy continued from Page 16

trusts can allow an individual to make a gift to a charity while retaining an interest in the gifted asset during his or her lifetime.

CRT Mechanics and Tax Aspects As a general rule, it is best to fund a CRT with an asset that, if sold outside the trust, would produce substantial longterm capital gains tax.

After the trust is executed, the donor transfers this appreciated, low- or non-income producing asset to the CRT. The CRT sells the asset and

gives the donor an income stream for life, for a term of years, or for joint lives. At the death of the donor (or the donor’s named non-charitable income beneficiary if other than the donor) the remaining trust assets pass to the charity.

Here’s how it works: •Upon creation of the trust, the donor is eligible for a current income tax deduction based on the present value of the future amount passing to the charity.

•No tax on the gain is paid by the trust when it sells the asset, since the

January 22 - February 4, 2016

trust is exempt from such tax when it sells the asset.

•The donor receives an income stream and pays income taxes on the income as received.

•At the end of the trust term, the remainder passes to the designated charity and estate taxes may be reduced, since the remainder passing to charity has been removed from the estate.

“Wealth Trust

Replacement”

As indicated, the remaining assets in the trust eventually pass to the

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charity and not to the donor’s heirs. The income tax savings produced by the charitable donation combined with the income generated by the trust can be used to pay premiums on a life insurance policy owned by a properly formed irrevocable life insurance trust sometimes known as a “wealth replacement” trust. The life insurance policy in this trust replaces the value of the assets that pass to the charity in the CRT. Since the life insurance is purchased and owned by the irrevocable trust, the proceeds should be income

and estate tax free. The donor’s family is, therefore, made whole.

Prepared by MetLife

Delivered courtesy of Wayne Kuykendall, Financial Services Representative with Strategic Financial Partners, an office of MetLife.

For more information on the financial, risk and wealth management strategies that Wayne Kuykendall provides, please contact him at 256-777-4524, wayne.d.kuykendall@ strategicfinancialpartners. com, and 105 S Marion Street Suite 202, Athens, AL, 35611.

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Medical Update

True Health: You And Chiropractic

By Dr. John Boyle What exactly does being healthy mean? We use this term all the time. “I went to the doctor and she said I was healthy.”

Or “My grandmother is very healthy and rarely has to visit the doctor.”

Or “I wish I could get rid of these aches and pains so I could be healthy.”

Have you ever really considered what you mean when you say or think these things? Healthy is one of those words that can mean a lot of different things to a lot of different people. In general, the idea of health between the medical model and the chiropractic model of care differs significantly.

ing in a healthy manner.

Yes, you have symptoms.

Yes, you feel terrible. But your body has recognized the “poison” and is working efficiently to rid the body of it. Other signs that some say show a lack of health that can actually mean your body is reacting in a healthy manner include vomiting, sneezing, coughing, and fever.

So what is health if it isn’t about symptoms?

The World Health Organization (WHO) defined health as “a state of optimal physical, mental, and social well-being and

tebral column (or spine).

The nervous system controls everything in your body. All your cells, tissues, organs, and body systems get information from the nervous system and learn what they are to do and not do based on that communication.

Since this is true, real health is about how well your nervous system can communicate with the rest of your body. This is why subluxations cause such big problems. Vertebral subluxation is defined as “an interference of the

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It is amazing how many people come to the chiropractor with a spinal complaint, only to realize that chiropractic care has resolved not only their back pain, but other issues as well. Reducing subluxations creates positive results throughout the entire body.

Essentially, the medical model of health sees the body as a machine- a series of parts that need attention. That is why there are specialists: specialists deal with parts.

•Cardiologist: heart •Gastroenterologist: gestive system

Ask a medical doctor what health is and they will likely say “a state free from disease.” This definition does not state what health is but what it is not. So, according to their definition, if you do not have a specific disease you are healthy.

But what if you have headaches, stomach disturbances, body pain or fatigue? Unless there is a specific disease attached to these complaints you are still considered healthy. In pain, yes.

Healthy, yes. How can a person be healthy if they have health complaints?

On the other hand, sometimes a healthy body does have health complaints.

It’s true! At least, if you think of a body that is acting correctly as one that is healthy. For instance, if you have eaten food and now have food poison, your body will respond by vomiting and getting diarrhea. This means that your body is function-

disease and illness.

di-

•Urologist: urinary tract •Podiatrist: feet •Orthopedist: bones •Gynecologist: female reproduction •Neurologist: system

nervous

In order to “fix” the machine or “get rid of” disease, these specialists look to drugs to alter blood chemistry. In many instances, this approach does not address the root of the problem.

not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”

Chiropractors understand the intimate relationship of a healthy body to the nervous system, which of course includes the ver-

nervous system due to a misalignment and/or abnormal motion of spinal vertebrae which causes improper communication with associated organs, muscles, and tissues.”

This communication block causes a variety of

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Those that see the body as a whole are known as vitalists. A vitalist doesn’t see the body as just a sum of parts, but realizes that the body has an “innate intelligence,” an ability to heal and desire to be whole and well. Chiropractors are vitalists, along with acupuncturists, homeopaths, and naturopaths, among others. The purpose of vitalist care is to restore your body to balance so that it can perform at the optimal levels.

We do not merely mask symptoms and declare health when the symptoms are gone. Instead, we look for the root cause of the problem and work to eliminate that. Generally speaking, chiropractors are both mechanists and vitalists: they pay attention to the mechanics of the spine and look at a blocked nervous system and how it affects the entire body, understanding that correcting the subluxation can allow the body to heal itself.

What Healthy Feels Like Most people have no idea what it feels like to be truly healthy. We may understand what it feels like to be free of illness or disease because most of us have experienced one or the other. The difference between having the flu and not having the flu is significant. We can definitely define what it feels like to not have the flu!

But what about true health? How does that feel? Did you know that it is not natural to get sick and take medications? Did you know that having any kind of pains, aches, or other complaints is not normal?

Did you know that all the symptoms associated with aging do not have to exist? It’s true!

A healthy person has no sleep issues, skin rashes, dandruff, depression, colds/flu, heartburn, aches/pains, or immense stress. Instead a healthy person is full of energy, motivation, and vitality.

Chiropractic care allows true health to occur.

January 22 - February 4, 2016

Foreman’s Forum

Shooting Holes In Gun Control Arguments

by Paul Foreman Here in North Alabama, personal firearms are as common as farm tractors. I have not found anyone who attacks the 2nd Amendment around here, like I’ve read about anti-gun people doing in other areas. However, I still felt the need to write about “Our Right to Bear Arms.”

I saw a paragraph the other day which really sums it up. “Oh, so you’re against private ownership of guns? I’ll bet you don’t believe in fire extinguishers, either.

I mean, you can always just call the fire department, right?” I personally believe that I must, under my moral code,

ger, does the tool used for self-defense have any bearing on whether or not the defense was justified? Now let’s not jump to any misguided conclusions. Self defense is exactly that and no more.

Self defense is NOT getting even with someone.

Self defense is not retaliation for what they did or

treat, you must retreat! *** Alabama is a "Castle Doctrine and Stand your Ground State."

However, retreat might be the wisest and safest thing to do.

ALL OF THE ABOVE ELEMENTS MUST BE PRESENT TO CLAIM SELF DEFENSE!

“A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a Free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

Even our Supreme Court has ruled that in Parker v. District of Columbia (March 2007), the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals overturned Washington, D.C.'s handgun ban on the grounds that it violates the Second Amendment's guarantee of an individual’s right to bear arms.

Do you believe that the police are required to protect you by law?

That is NOT the law.

The police cannot be there to protect individual citizens from attack or harm. When seconds count, the police are just minutes away. In Warren vs. District of Columbia, the court found that the D.C. police “owe no specific duty” to protect individuals from criminal harm. Therefore, the District was held harmless.

Warren was a woman who, along with her two female roommates, was brutalized horribly after the D.C. police were called but never arrived to help.

be willing and able to defend myself and my loved ones. To cower in a corner, frozen by fear, is just not something this “sheep dog” is going to do.

said yesterday.

Now what about the tools of self defense? If someone is trying to kill you, would you agree that it is ok to use a hammer as a tool to stop them? How about a baseball bat or a frying pan? Is it fair for you to use a knife to defend yourself or a loved one? How about hitting them with a coffee pot?

Why isn’t it ok to use a gun to stop them if they are trying to kill you?

When your life is in dan-

2) Immediate: The threat MUST be right now, not earlier in the hour, day, week, month or year!

January 22 - February 4, 2016

BASIC RULES OF CLAIMING SELF DEFENSE 1) Innocence: You cannot be the aggressor!

Gun Free Zones: Wow! Free Guns? I wish I could find one of those zones! There are several guns on my wish list that I want to get for free! Gun Free Zone signs should also state, “Crime Free Zone, any criminal is free to come here and attack innocent people, because no one

here is allowed defend themselves!” I do see a few “Gun Free Zone” signs around Athens.

Those business owners should be ashamed of themselves. I have actually brought up to various business owners or managers, the futility of such a sign. The typical answer has been, “Oh, I have no control over that sign, it is corporate policy” or “The owner of the building put that sign there.” Let’s speak up and stop this insanity.

All the mass shootings, in schools, malls, theaters and churches have been in gun free zones. It did not stop the murders.

I do believe that armed citizen MUST be trained to safely and properly use a firearm, to defend themselves and their loved ones.

Paul Foreman is a retired Deputy Sheriff. He is also a Certified NRA Firearms Instructor. You can reach Paul through his web site at www.

PaulForeman.com.

Paul Foreman Retired Deputy Sheriff & NRA Certified Firearms Instructor Paul can be reached through his website at www.PaulForeman.com

3) Proportionality: Your defense MUST be NO greater than needed to stop the threat.

4) Reasonableness: Your action to defend yourself must be reasonable.

5) Avoidance****: If there is a SAFE re-

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