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July 3rd - July 16th, 2020

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

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

Special Feature QS Professionals: Employment Specialists Who Help You Maximize Your Potential... Bernard Hendricks and Roddric Ellsberry grew up in Birmingham together and graduated from... Page 5

The Chronicles Of Charles No Man Is An Island... I was sitting in my office chair flustered and weary. The daily grind was getting to me. There was something missing... Page 7

Storage Port: The Best In Service, Security, And Location By Ali Elizabeth Turner Patrick Patterson has had a rather diverse set of careers which have included everything from being a biologist working as an environmental monitor, a radiation technologist at Marshall Space Flight Center, traveling to Asia to procure furniture, and is now the manager of the brand new mini-storage complex on Mooresville Road known as Continued on page 15

Village Interiors And Specialty Gifts Expands To A New Location Near Historic Belle Mina

Red, White & Boom

By Ali Elizabeth Turner

Athens Red, White And Boom Drive-in Firework Show... The Athens-Limestone Tourism has been given the go-ahead from the state fire marshal's office to have the annual Red,... Page 11

July 03 - July 16, 2020

In 2006, Susan Patterson had a vision of creating a trendy home dĂŠcor store in downtown Rogersville that carried unique gift items. At that time, the only retail store in the downtown area was a candle shop. So she gathered a few friends, all of whom intenContinued on page 17

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July 03 - July 16, 2020

Publisher’s Point

Ali Turner

Copy Editor

Yvonne Dempsey

Sales & Distribution Degan Wilder

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Contributing Writers D. A. Slinkard Lisa Philippart Lynne Hart Cayce Lee Anna Hamilton Joel Allen Nick Thomas Charles Joseph Jerry Barksdale

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar Of Events . . . . . 6 Chronicles Of Charles . . . . . 7 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 8 Slinkard on Success . . . . . . 9 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Anna . . . . 13 Cover Stories . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Health And Fitness . . . . . . 16 Jerry's Journal . . . . . . . . 19 Dog Barker . . . . . . . . . 20 Mental Health Minute . . . 21

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CHOPping Down The CHAZ Next month in August, my husband and I will have been here in Alabama for 20 years. They have been some of the best of my life, and I will thank God forever for bringing us here. I have always let folks know that I am one of the few natives of Seattle, Washington; and while the Great NorthWET will always have a special place in my heart, Alabama is home. Sometimes I think people who “are not from around here” actually have a greater appreciation for Alabama in general, and Athens in particular than those who have always been here. One of the things that fuels that appreciation is having the freedom to be free in ways that are not so much the case in other parts of the country. Most of that freedom is an inward thing, and lots of it has to do with embracing faith and common sense. I know it’s easy to make fun of Seattle’s Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone (CHAZ) or the newer name that was given after this debacle was formed: CHOP. That stood for Capitol Hill Occupied Property, or to some, Capitol Hill Occupied Protest (Zone). As of this week, CHOP has been chopped…like

could only communicate by signing. Her police statement indicates that she signed, “Don’t touch” to her attacker, thinking that should have been enough.

Publisher / Editor

from the occupied landscape. What was touted by the mayor of Seattle as something akin to a street fair became anything but. It was not some kind of renaissance of 1967, the so-called Summer of Love. It was not a miniWoodstock, it was not an oasis of tolerance for anything other than anarchy, and people were sexually assaulted, while two others were murdered there. Food that was designated for the homeless was stolen, and a black patriot who walked through there with an American flag was mercilessly harassed. Police were banned from their area, surrendered (against their will) their local precinct station, and then blamed for not protecting people. Firefighters would

not respond without police protection, and who could blame them? The mayor, Jenny Durkan, first bowed up at any inference that she should stop the formation of a new country which sported at its borders a sign which said, “You are now leaving the United States of America.” The supposed reasoning behind the formation of CHOP was to protest the death of George Floyd. But here is the rub: How does acting as badly as the police officer who killed him inspire reform? Is that what you would call “servant leadership,” or “leading by example?” What broke my heart about the rape (the one for which there has been an arrest) besides the fact that it was a rape, which is enough, was that the victim was deaf and

Well, I don’t know what finally inspired Seattle’s mayor to finally say, “Enough is enough,” and let the police do their job, but they did. It was over in a few minutes; there were no casualties, and the Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone has returned to the United States of America. Fifty years ago we saw similar kinds of things happening all over America, and it was scary. But I not only have good news that there is great reason to have hope in the midst of this scariness, please know that my life in Him was birthed in a time of similar chaos and is proof that great good can come out of undeniable wrong. And that, dear readers, was an “Independence Day” that will last for all eternity. Happy 4th of July, and please find a veteran or a police officer to thank for your earthly freedom!

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

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All Things Soldier

Words Mean Things, 75 Years Later by Ali Elizabeth Turner

This 4th of July is important in American history because it was 75 years ago now that the Allies were in the process of finishing off fascism in Europe. My husband, Steve, often says that “words mean things,” and here are a few somewhat playful things to think of as we grapple with a strange and challenging time in the good ol’ US of A. So, here is sassy question number one: If the contemporary word, “Antifa,” is supposed to refer to being organized and committed to the destruction of fascism, then were the Allies in fact the original members of Antifa? Probably not, seeing as the current members of Antifa think that such concepts as patriotism, freedom of religion, free market capitalism, national sovereignty,

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and constitutional conservatism are not acceptable. Ironically, today’s Antifa started in Germany. It uses two flags to signify its flagship philosophies: anarchy and communism. Wiki has this to say about Antifa: Individuals involved in the movement tend to hold anti-authoritarian and anti-capitalist views, subscribing to a range of leftwing ideologies such as anarchism, communism, Marxism, social democracy and socialism. Both the name antifa and the logo with two flags representing anarchism and communism are derived from the German Antifa movement. I’ll let you simmer in that one for a moment, as you get ready to celebrate your first COVID 4th of July in your car if that’s the way

you choose to pause publically to appreciate what was purchased for you by liberators of long ago. Bottom line, the true, real, honorable members of the original Antifa were the ones who pushed back the fascism of Hitler and Mussolini; the ones who were willing to die for the freedom of others. The current ones are interlopers. Now, here is playful poke number two: Several of the WWII liberators of the Netherlands were black, and they are honored to this day by the Dutch as families choose, generation after generation, to adopt their graves and be their keepers as a token of appreciation for giving their lives to defeat, wait for it… fascism. They were members of the 784th Tank Battalion, and had to endure segre-

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gation while they fought. In spite of true injustice, these black soldiers got it that black lives matter, white lives matter, brown lives matter, all lives matter, and all lives deserve to be free. And, they got it that freedom is never free. The great irony is that they gave everything even when at the time, back home, they did not possess the same level of freedom for which they spilled their blood on foreign soil. This is why they will always be the Greatest Generation. Why did they do it? I have got to believe that even though 75 years ago there were great gaps when it came to “liberty and justice for all,” they saw that it was indeed the original organizational concept that eventually became America that was the only

system with even a snowball’s chance in a very hot place of ever getting it right. Their money was on the dream, even if it didn’t come true in their lifetime. Who do these guys remind you of? The folks in Hebrews 11 that are also thought of as heroes. Here’s what it says about them: These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. On this 4th, be a pilgrim, be persuaded, embrace the possibilities, and while you are at it, confess your thanks to a vet who was willing to die to make you free. And remember, your life matters.

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Special Feature

QS Professionals: Employment Specialists Who Help You Maximize Your Potential by Ali Elizabeth Turner Bernard Hendricks and Roddric Ellsberry grew up in Birmingham together and graduated from Woodlawn High School. While they remained friends throughout, their original career paths could not have been more divergent. Bernard went to Jefferson State, Birmingham campus and graduated in Human Relations. He went straight into the corporate world and worked in HR for more than two decades. Roddric spent 30 years in the United States Army and retired as a command sergeant major. He has an extensive list of medals, ribbons, awards, certifications, and commendations, and has served all over the world in combat and in peacetime. Recently Bernard’s and Roddric’s career paths converged, and the result is the brand new branch of QS Professionals, a different breed of employment agency. Bernard has been the “HR guy” for companies whose employee roster ranged from 50 employees to more than 300. Specifically, he is the most familiar with HR as it pertains to manufacturing, and knows what is needed to keep a manufacturing facility “hum-

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Bernard Hendricks, owner of QS Professionals Corp

ming.” He also understands the needs of the corporate market, and can help with “head hunting” for a CEO or filling contract slots in an administration or professional setting. While he is grateful for every moment he spent working for other companies, the time came when he knew he wanted to own a firm, and opened QS Professionals’ first office in Suwanee, GA, in 2012. Roddric finished up his military career at Ft. Hood, and he is deeply involved with helping soldiers on Redstone Arsenal transition to civilian life, volunteers for the Red Cross, and is a professional speaker. He was recently

elected as the secretary of the Redstone Arsenal Sergeants Major Association. As the rapid economic development and population influx in our area put forth a demand for quality contract workers in a number of sectors, Bernard did his market research, realized North Alabama was the perfect market, and Roddric came on board to open the brand new QS office. It is located in the Storage Port complex on Mooresville Rd. between Belle Mina and Mooresville. The address is 5750 Mooresville Road, Tanner, AL 35671. What makes QS Professionals different from other employment agencies? Bernard stated that the last thing he wants to do is send "a warm body" -someone who just shows up, does the minimum and doesn't have much of a work ethic. “QS Professionals is committed to finding qualified candidates,” says Bernard, and is willing

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to invest to do so. “In addition, through testing and orientation, we are filling positions with capable, safety conscious employees.” Staffing has its challenges. From day to day things are different; every agency can place employees, but when a problem arises, how it’s handled is what separates the agencies. Bernard says, “It is our endeavor to build strong business relationships with our clients so that we can work through employee relations, issues, and successes together.” Measures have been put in place by QS Professionals to hold associates accountable throughout their temporary assignments. Along with their measures, they will sometimes mirror a client’s merit program, which helps smooth the transition from temporary to permanent. Realizing that each client is different when it comes to hours and shifts, a 24/7 answering service has been set up to make sure any situation that needs immediate attention is handled. It is important to Bernard that every employee goes home to their family safe after each shift. Before he commits to a client, he does a safety evaluation. If a site is not safe, he will pass on the account. He has learned that all business is not good business. One of his company’s policies is that everyone experiences TLC from the very first time they come in contact with QS Professionals. TLC stands for a Total Life Cycle. Bernard says he expects all his employees to treat everyone with respect

and how they would want to be treated from the very beginning throughout. He stated "People will not always remember what you said, but they will remember how you made them feel." Bernard realizes that he will not be able to help everyone, but he has created a resource manual which houses contact numbers for multiple situations. He feels that even if he cannot put someone to work, he wants them to walk away with something. Besides Roddric, Susan Fox works as the regional director of recruiting, and Tiffany Townsend takes care of all the IT/web needs for the corporation. Because Bernard is back and forth between Georgia and Alabama, he says he is blessed to feel confident about leaving the shop in such good hands. If you are looking for a fresh, new start in one of the many new places of employment in North Alabama, or are in need of a qualified contract worker, give QS Professionals a call today at 256-6462252, or go online to apply for a position at various locations at qsprocorp.net/ job-application/

QS Professionals

5750 Mooresville Road Tanner, AL 35671 Office: 256-646-2252 or 678-559-1100 Bernard’s cell: 678-510-3516 Hours: 8-5, M-F qsprocorp.net/ job-application/ Page 5

Calendar of Events Red, White & Boom Is On! July 4

shopping around the Square. Free and open to the public. Donation welcome. (The concert is subject to cancellation due

Athens Fireworks Show at the Athens Stadium (100 U.S. Highway 31N in Athens). No stadium seating. Viewable from adjacent properties including Central Church of Christ, Swan Creek Park, Athens Shopping Center, Athens High School. Please respect private property and traffic right of ways. Bring your camp chair, lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the firework show after dark provided by Athens-Limestone County Tourism, City of Athens and Limestone County Commission. For more information: Athens-Limestone Visitors Center 100 North Beaty Street in Athens from 8:00AM-5:00PM, Monday through Friday or 256-232-5411.

Drive-In Movie Double Feature July 10 - 11

Cinemagic Theatre. 1702 South Jefferson Street in Athens. 8:30PM-12:30AM. The original Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory begins at 8:30PM. 10 minute intermission then the original The Goonies. $6.00 per person includes both movies.

Veterans Post Free Veterans' Breakfast July 11

At the Amvets Post 21. 22769 Black Road in Athens. Enjoy a pancake or egg breakfast with the trimmings from 7:00AM9:30AM. Non-Veterans $6.00. All are welcome. For more information: 256-444-2793 or www.AmVetsAL21.com

Athens Saturday Market July 11

Athens Saturday Market is a state-certified farmers market. Enjoy fresh produce, baked goods, music with The Silver Silos, art, and crafts at the Green Street pavilion (409 West Green Street in Athens) from 8:00AM to 12:00PM with free Tomato Sandwiches while they last. athensmainstreet.org

July Cruise In on the Square July 11

At the Limestone County Courthouse Square. 123 South Jefferson Street in Athens. Starting at 6:00PM. No judging, no trophies - just show and shine and enjoy the rides, shops, and restaurants.

COVID-19 levels in the community and public health priority. Six foot social distancing for attendees required, same household of 8 or less, mask optional but appreciated).

Fridays After Five July 17

With Athens Main Street in downtown Athens, AL from 5:00PM-9:00PM. Enjoy dinner or dessert at one of the eateries or restaurants around the Square, peruse the stores for the perfect back-to-school gift, and bring your camp or lawn chair and nestle in on the Marion Street side of the courthouse of Athens-Limestone Tourism's Summer Concert Series: Singing on the Square with Trippin' Dixie (free, donation welcome, social distancing for attendees required).

Harry Potter Movie Marathon July 17 - 23

Cinemagic Theatre. 1702 South Jefferson Street in Athens. From 1:00PM-11:59PM in the indoor theatres. Social distancing and other precautions will be observed. The entire series will be shown 2 per week for a month and save your ticket stubs of the first 6 movies and enjoy the Deathly Hollows 1 & 2 free (must have all tickets). Week One: HP & The Sorcerer's Stone 1:00PM & 7:00PM; HP & The Chamber of Secrets 4:00PM & 10:00PM. Special event price: $6.00 per person

Alabama Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday July 17 - 19

The Alabama Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday allows shoppers to purchase select back-to-school items free of state sales tax. Local tax may apply.

Starting at 3:00PM in the cove past the Elk River on northern shore of Wheeler Lake. Free to the public. For more information: 931-309-8754

Summer Concert Series: Singing on the Square with Trippin' Dixie July 17

On the East side of the Limestone County Courthouse (Marion Street in Athens) from 7:00PM-9:00PM hosted by AthensLimestone County Tourism Association. Bring your lawn chair and please, social distance. Come early and enjoy a meal and Page 6

J.J. Brindley's 8th Annual Rock the Dock Boat-Only Party July 18

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IT'S BACK!!! VVA Spaghetti Day 3rd Monday Of Each Month July 20

VVA building. 17915 W. Elm St. in Athens. Supports college scholarships for local high school students. Take out only for now. Cost is $8 a person, $4 for children under 12. Call ahead for large groups or takeouts. 256-431-3213. July 03 - July 16, 2020

I fi w w w i s a i t y t s t m f g t v m i I t I m g

T t l A a a o i o h v p e I A D h f c a b o m t t

O I i

The Chronicles Of Charles

No Man Is An Island by Charles Joseph

I was sitting in my office chair flustered and weary. The daily grind was getting to me. There was something missing. In a moment of inspiration, I jotted down a short article and sent it to a local editor with the headline: â€œWould you consider publishing this?â€? To my absolute surprise, the editor returned my email asking me to write something for the publication. I began to write for the first time in over ten years. A vibrancy flowed through me that I had been missing. Something shifted. I had a voice. It was a turning point in my life. I had found an outlet for my passions. A new beginning. There is an old adage that says it takes a village to raise a child. And sometimes, it takes a mentor to turn a life around. As I think back on the people that have influenced me throughout my life, I cannot help but reflect upon the various outcomes of the paths I would have taken without each of them. It reminds me of a book A Hand to Guide Me by Denzel Washington. In it he highlights dozens of famous athletes and successful business people and how they would not be where they are without those serendipitous meetings with influential people that changed their lives forever.

ers that desire only to help me. From a stranger lending me gas money when I forgot my wallet to the principal at my middle school. Jobs, friends, and a new outlook in many instances were often the result of people that chose to step into my life asking nothing in return. When I lived Colorado, I went to a business presentation. I knew that the presentations from this particular speaker were very good and uplifting. As I watched the presentation, something began to stir in me. It had been years since I had felt this feeling. It was an energy that came upon me as if in a rush. As I continued to listen, it was as if time slowed down, and I heard him say something that sent me into a new dimension. He explained patiently that sometimes a person needs permission. Permission to feel good. Permission to let go. Permission to try again. Permission to dream again. No individual is an island. People were meant to be in a community to-

gether. As we help each other along our chosen life paths, we benefit by helping them. Stepping into otherâ€™s lives and helping them build a foundation to a new life, or even taking them to a new level in their development or career, creates an opportunity to reflect on our own lives as we pour into someone else the knowledge and wisdom that we gained over the years. By doing this, we solidify the lessons that we have learned. In a sense, it lends rele-

vance and strength to the rare things that we experience along the way. Teaching others gives us the chance, the opportunity, to build something

outside of ourselves, often building something larger than ourselves. After all, we all need a purpose greater than ourselves.

On numerous occasions I have found myself being approached by oth-

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

“Play It Well” by Ali Elizabeth Turner It was the day before the mayor’s birthday, so that was pretty much the first thing he had to endure when he bounded into his office -- me singin’ the blues version of “Happy Birthday.” It’s the only time I have ever told the mayor what to do, and the scope of my directive was, “You sit down, please, sir, and I’ll stand up.” I sang, and it was followed by a brief part of the chorus of “Seventy-six Trombones” from the musical, The Music Man. That particular musical selection was chosen because it’s the only time he is going to be 76 years old. He cheerfully endured my well-intentioned greeting and then we got down to business. First up was the ongoing “COVID Conundrum.” Mayor Ronnie has been in frequent contact with Montgomery and mentioned that there was going to be an announcement made by Governor Ivey, which, as of this writing, appears to be an extension of what is already in place through July 31. Basically, “proceed with caution.” I told him that I could not imagine what it would be like to be sit-

ting in his chair, trying to be the mayor of folks who see “mask-less-ness” as a 1st Amendment right, as well as the ones who call his office daily and are on “mask patrol.” By that, I mean they want the mayor to personally see to it that people who are outside without a mask are subject to legal and fiscal penalties. “And where,” he asked me rhetorically, “would we get the funds to hire enough police officers to arrest the ‘nonmasked offenders’? And, what about achieving herd immunity? Where does that fit in?” As I listened, I thought about the biblical injunction to pray for our leaders. Lots. We moved on to the runup to crafting a comprehensive master plan for the City of Athens that gets everyone and everything on the same page. As Mayor Ronnie has often said, “Our greatest blessing is also our greatest challenge: growth.” There are many aspects to building a solid infrastructure that can accommodate the kind of growth we are anticipating in Athens-Limestone County, but one of the newest is dealing with

burial sites. There is a large “undisclosed retail project” that is going to be made public very soon, and it will be located at the bottom of Lindsay Lane South, where it intersects with the Huntsville-Brownsferry Road. These days, retail and residential developers often encounter burial sites that have no head or footstones or any type of marking at all. They have long been forgotten; nevertheless upon discovery it is understandable that their families are not comfortable with

the idea of having their loved ones covered over in asphalt or concrete. In this case, through the use of ground penetrating radar, three members of the Allen family were determined to be at the base of the hill, and the developer is going to carefully have them moved to a suitable resting place. For several years, Kelly’s Studio of Dance has presented an annual recital held at the Princess Theatre in Decatur. It’s always a challenge to pull it off, and this year in many ways has been the toughest. How does anyone manage a performance during a pandemic? The mayor welcomed the audience and thanked everyone—parents, grandparents, friends and family members-- who had sacrificed to give these kids a chance to work hard, work-together-while-apart and “keep on dancin’.” More questions poured

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in: Will school still be virtual in the fall? How will we pay for everything we need to do? Does the mayor court business and have any say as to who decides that Athens is a good candidate for a business investment? (The answer to that one is a resounding no.) As he often does, he teaches me what he learned in church the day before, and he took a piece of paper in order to quickly draw out a half-court diagram for a basketball game. He showed various strategies that players could implement which could be successful if they payed attention, and committed to “take care of where your feet are planted. You do that, and you will play it well.” We all now need to know where we stand and how to stand. “Good advice,” I said, and clearly we had lots about which to pray. So we did, and then it was time for Ronnie to roll.

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Slinkard On Success

God Bless The U.S.A. by D. A. Slinkard

I hate being lied to, yet we live in a world that is becoming more and more dishonest every day. We do not know whether or not we can believe the news, if it is real news or fake news; and sometimes no news is better than anything out there. Recently, I was asked about what are some lies the world would like us to believe and why I think these lies hurt us. I thought for a moment on this, and I came up with three lies most often used that can lead to a person’s demise. These three are as follows: Give 110% effort; As long as you try; and Listen to your heart. These things sound good, but when you peel back the layers you see the dishonesty that we fall for. As for giving 110% effort, this is probably most often quoted by many people. Sadly, this is the farthest

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from the truth. In fact, I would say the people that say they give 110% are the same ones in society who are barely giving 30% of their maximum effort. Yet, here we go asking for people to give their commitment, and they tell us they are 110% committed. Completely asinine. Why? Grab a water bottle and put 110% water in that bottle. You cannot do it, and neither can a person give more than they are capable of giving. The people who use this cute little quote do not even mean it, and I guarantee they could not show you what just 75% effort looks like. Do not fall for the fake news of 110% effort. The next lie is what we often hear parents tell kids, “As long as you try…” Who even says this? You got it -the parents that have their 30-year-old kid living at home in the basement filled

with all the participation trophies they won growing up. We need to stop pretending it is okay for people to just show up and give any amount of effort. To be successful in life takes more than just putting forth any kind of effort. You need to have the mentality of showing up with the intention of giving everything you have. To use an old sports cliché, you need to leave everything out on the court. Sadly, though, we do not know what it means to give maximum effort because we have raised an entire generation of kids who are satisfied with getting a participation ribbon. As a kid, I wanted to be the best; I would not settle for anything less. And as an adult, not much has changed. I still want to be the best at what I do. If it is playing sports, I want to be the best. If it is doing my job, I want to be the best.

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We need not settle, and we need to raise up a generation that does not settle for just any kind of effort. The third and final lie I oftentimes hear is listen to your heart and you will never go wrong. Sadly, I have been guilty of saying this lie. It was not until I started reading my King James Bible that I realized what God says about listening to the heart. Did you know the Bible tells us the heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked? I will never forget the first time I read this scripture, and I felt ashamed. I had been telling the same lie that had been passed down to me from whomever, but I wish I would have been wise enough to have known the truth. If you tell a lie with enough conviction and tell it often enough, this lie will eventu-

ally become truth. This has happened to the world we live in. As a society, the lies we told ourselves have now become the truth. We, as a country, are headed down a slippery slope, and we need to get ourselves back on track. The greatest country known to man is the United States of America, and we need to live our lives as such. We have people who are ashamed to be Americans, and yet here we are celebrating the independence of our country. Freedom is not free, and I hope after reading this you will take the time to reflect upon some things. Examine the lies we so easily believe; open your Bible and get closer to God’s Word; and the next time you see a U.S. soldier, thank them for their service. God bless the U.S.A.

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Tourism

Athens-Limestone Spangles And Sparkles With Summer Fun In July by Cayce Lee Social Media Specialist, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association Summer has arrived and getting outside for sun and fun with our events in AthensLimestone, Alabama will keep you busy. July is seeing more and more events being scheduled with social distancing practices in place, and below is just a few highlights of what’s happening. And if you want the details for any event – head over to VisitAthensAL. com and check out our calendars under Events or stop by the AthensLimestone Visitors Center at 100 North Beaty Street in Athens. Patriotic Fun fills Athens-Limestone… Citizens near and far can enjoy a variety of patriotic-themed events, including painting classes, boat parties, and firework shows. The big-bang Red, White & Boom Firework show in Athens will be July 4th near the Athens Football Stadium starting after dark and is provided by the Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association, City of Athens, and the Limestone County Commission. Musical simulcast for the display will be available from Outlaw 105.1. Learn about all the fireworks event, where to park, social distancing requirements, and more at VisitAthensAL.com/ red-white-and-boom— july-4.html The annual Elk River Boat Only Party re-

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turns to Anderson Creek on July 4 at the Jackson Camp/Pier (just north of the Elk River Bridge approximately 3,000-5,000 feet on the west shore) with live music from Kosmic Mama from 3-7:00 p.m. with host Mike and Bridgett Jackson. The Bay Village Firework Show will follow the Elk River Boat Party after darkness has fallen at Lucy’s Branch Marina (providing the privately-organized firework show’s GoFundMe is successful in helping fund the barge-based display. The Creator’s Corner and Boutique in Ardmore, The Broken Brush Studios in Athens, and High Cotton Arts in Athens are all offering opportunities to express your inner Picasso with a patriotic flair including doat-home DIY art kits available for ordering for curbside or mail delivery.

Central Church of Christ will not be hosting its annual 4th of July gathering during the fireworks show. Blanche Freedom Festival has canceled for 2020 as well. Joe Wheeler State Park’s annual 4th of July activities are canceled for 2020 too. Fun Outside… In Mooresville, 1818 Farms is bursting with blooms and will be offering several opportunities to participate in a bloom stroll and bouquet workshop that includes meeting some of the furry residents on July 7 and 9. Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful and Tennessee Valley Authority are offering free guided

walking tours of Marbut Bend in Salem, AL – space is limited for each tour with RSVP available through Eventbrite. Enjoy fresh produce, locally-produced goods, activities for the family and live music at Athens Saturday Markets each Saturday 8 a.m.-noon under the Green Street Pavilion in downtown Athens. Redstone Harley-Davidson in Greenbrier is playing host to a variety of motorcycle rides, including fundraisers for kids’ sports, cancer and other local charities. Music and more… The Summer Concert Series: Singing on the

Square hosted by Athens-Limestone Tourism will take over the Marion Street steps of the Limestone County Courthouse on July 17 to round out the activities of Fridays After Five hosted by Athens Main Street. Both activities will happen in Athens’ new Square Entertainment District, which allows open-air enjoyment of alcohol within the designated boundaries of the district in specially designated cups. Many of Athens-Limestone’s music venues are back to booking live bands or hosting karaoke. For the most up-to-date information on who’s performing where – visit the events calendar at VisitAthensAL.com. Looking To Escape… Are you looking to get out into nature for a break from your four walls? Wondering about what there is to explore in AthensLimestone’s backyard? Get ready to discover our trails, attractions, antique shops, farmers markets and roadside stands, disc golf courses, and other hidden gems in our ever expanding collection in our new “Plan Your Trip” section of our website where you’ll find a variety of themed topics to help you get out and explore the people, places, and spaces of AthensLimestone Alabama.

Some changes to Patriotic Happenings… The J.J. Brindley Rock the Dock Boat Only Party will be later in the month on July 18 in the cove past the Elk River on the northern shore of Wheeler Lake. The Vietnam Veterans Spaghetti Lunch and Dinner has returned with a takeout-only offering on July 20. Cost is $8. The July Cruise-In on the Square has moved from July 4 to July 11.

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July 03 - July 16, 2020

Red, White And Boom

Athens Red, White And Boom Drive-in Firework Show by Cayce Lee Social Media Specialist, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association

The Athens-Limestone Tourism has been given the go-ahead from the state fire marshal's office to have the annual Red, White & Boom display with one twist – drive-in style viewing to meet the safety guidelines laid out by the Centers for Disease Control, the Governor’s Office, and Alabama Public Health. The Red, White & Boom: Drive-In Firework Show will be held on the July 4 at Athens Middle School/Athens Stadium near the intersection of U.S. Highway 31 and Alabama

July 03 - July 16, 2020

Highway 251, with view available from adjacent properties. AthensLimestone Tourism has partnered with Outlaw 105.1 to provide synchronized music to go along with the firework show and other Independence Day music before the show begins. Teresa Todd, AthensLimestone Tourism President, said, “Initially, we decided to postpone until later in the year but with the community pleas to have the show on the 4th of July and the relaxed guidelines for organizations hosting events, we reconsidered having the

event.” Mrs. Todd continued, “One of our main priorities is protecting our guests and community from the COVID-19 virus, and the best way to meet this goal is to keep everyone in their vehicle as much as possible. If everyone will cooperate and remain in their vehicles, use masks, and social distance if they need to get out of their vehicle, this can be a fairly safe event for everyone.” The show will begin anywhere from 8:30 8:45 p.m. It is advised for people to find their

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parking spots by 8 p.m. There will not be any other activities associated with this event. Ad-

ditional information is at: www.visitathensal. com/red-white-andboom---july-4.html

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Clean and Green

Win Up To $1,000 For Picking Up Trash! by Lynne Hart - Executive Coordinator - Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful

You or your group can have your name entered into a drawing for $1,000, $500, $200, $100, and MORE! All you have to do is clean up litter from a half mile of roadway (both sides) in Limestone County. The more half-mile sections you clean, the more times your name is entered into the drawing. And you have until August 28 to do it! You must register to

participate. You can do that at KALBCares.com. Find the Indorama Cash For Trash Challenge under the Events tab. Register your halfmile cleanup, then let us know when it has been done. The trash bags will be picked up and the cleanup verified. Once that is done, you are in the drawing that will take place no later than September 2, 2020. KALB will provide volunteers with safety vests, litter grabbers, and trash bags.

of trash cans and broken trash bags.

We have a serious litter problem in Limestone County. A REALLY serious problem! If you have spent any time at all driving through this

county, then you are aware. It comes from lots of places: tossed out of vehicles, blown from the back of uncovered trucks, and spilled out

Indorama Ventures, a company located right here in Athens, is hoping this challenge will motivate people who do take pride. KALB appreciates Indorama Ventures for sponsoring the cash prizes, which we hope will be an incentive to people who care to go out and help clean up our roadways.

Call or email KALB for more information on how you can be part of the challenge.

Clean and Green

Summer Activities For Kids – With Prizes, Too! by Lynne Hart - Executive Coordinator - Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful There is still plenty of time to get in on the summer activities we’ve created to help make up for the cancellation of the inperson Earth Day & Outdoor EXPO! Gift Bags: Participants in the Earthy Art Contest and Nature Scavenger Hunts will receive a gift bag with items to help them explore nature. Stop by the KALB office (125 East St.) to

pick them up. Earthy Art Contest: Help your children explore nature and collect items they find along the way that can be used to create art. The finished artwork can take any form: framed, glued to a background, hung, etc. If items used are perishable, the work can be submitted by photo. All artwork must be three-dimensional (3D). Artwork will be judged and prizes

awarded to the top three in each category. The Group/ Family category is for those who wish to work on the project as a group/ family and for parents with special needs children. • Age Categories: 5-7 years 8-10 years 11-14 years Group/Family • Prizes in each age category: 1st- $100 2nd- $50 3rd- $25 • ENTRY DEADLINE: Wednesday, July 15, 2020 • INFORMATION: KALBCares.com under EVENTS tab Nature Scavenger Hunts: Hunts have been created to suit three different age groups. Special needs children can participate in the age category that fits their

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abilities. Take the kids outside and let them “hunt” for the items on their list. Each child who submits a completed scavenger hunt will be entered into a drawing for additional prizes. • ENTRY DEADLINE: Wednesday, July 15, 2020

KALBCares.com under EVENTS tab or call 256233-8000

Call KALB at 256-2338000 or email KALBCares@gmail.com with any questions about these programs.

• INFORMATION/ PRINTABLE FORMS:

Become a Fan

(256) 233-8000 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com July 03 - July 16, 2020

Cooking with Anna

Rules For Life by Anna Hamilton

This past week, I was scrolling through Facebook and saw a post from a friend that really resonated with me. It was just a simple post that listed 5 reminders of how we should approach life every day. Simple words of wisdom that force you to truly be thankful for every day you are given. I am going to try and implement them into my life. Number 1: It’s okay to ask for help. This one is a hard one for me. Maybe it’s first child syndrome. Maybe is just plain stubbornness. Maybe is just plain foolishness. I have never been good at reaching out to others when I need help. Even with something as simple as reaching a glass on the top shelf, I would pull over a stepstool and climb on it instead of asking my husband to simply get it down for me. These past few months have forced me to ask for help. I am not the woman I once was. I used to be so strong, but now I need help to do things throughout my day. In asking others for help, I have found that it doesn’t make me weak. It makes me sensitive to others that may need help. It makes me have strength to help others when they need help. Asking for help in our daily lives helps form a bond with others and forces us to work together. Both of which are greatly important in our lives. Number 2: Your feelings are valid. As women, we are sometimes taught that our feelings may not be rational. Maybe you have been called emotional, or even worse hormonal. On occasion, yes, you may be both emotional and hormonal, but that doesn’t mean that the feelings you have are not valid. It also doesn’t mean that anyone else’s feelings aren’t valid. When speaking with others, we must learn to respect each other’s feelings. Becoming comfortable with your own feelings will make you a much happier and more peaceful person. Number 3: Comparison steals joy. Let’s just take this one in. I mean really sit still with this one for a while; let it really seep into the tiny crevices of your brain. From a very young age we are taught to compare ourselves with others. In kindergarten for example, your coloring page of a duck is put next to Susie’s duck on the wall of the classroom. You notice how Susie’s duck is all one color, a beautiful yellow. Your duck, is a patch work design, a color explosion, color all outside the lines. Susie’s duck is given a smiley face sticker. Yours just hangs on the wall…stickerless. It is in that

moment that you learn to compare every detail of your life to others around you. Some things are trivial like a coloring sheet. Some things are much harder to swallow. You start down a rabbit hole and never can enjoy your uniqueness. You are special and unique. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Embrace your duck! Color outside the lines and don’t apologize for it. Choose joy and stop comparing yourself to Susie. That’s an order! Number 4: Every day is a gift. None of us are promised tomorrow. With all that the world is facing, we truly should be cherishing every day we are given. Every morning that we wake up is a gift to start fresh. The mistakes of yesterday are gone and the hopes of tomorrow are renewed again. Before your feet hit the floor in the morning, take a moment to be thankful for your blessings, and make a promise to start your day with joy. You won’t be sorry for being happy in the morning and truly treating every day as a gift. Number 5: You will always be enough. The person you are right in this very moment is just who you are supposed to be right now. That doesn’t mean you are at the end of your journey, it just means that you are where you are supposed to be in your journey. There have been many days where I have felt like I have fallen short. I have written about my shortcomings before, or at least I feel they are shortcomings. When you stop comparing yourself to others, you will always feel like you are enough. Never pretend to be something or someone you aren’t. Be true to your authentic self! You are just who you are meant to be. My plan is to sincerely put these 5 simple truths into practice. I may not always succeed, but it is going to be my new half-year resolution (Can you believe that 2020 is already half over???) My hope is that you all put these 5 truths into practice as well. Imagine if the whole world did? This week’s recipe is a quick weeknight meal that is sure the please everyone. It is a snap to fix and leaves plenty of time for you to focus on your family. It’s a one pan wonder, and even those family members who don’t like fish will be converted with this recipe. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family does. “Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3: 21-23

Lemon Pepper Salmon with Garlic Parmesan Asparagus Ingredients:

1 ½ lbs. salmon (my family prefers skinless) 2 tsp lemon pepper seasoning ¼ cup Parmesan cheese ½ tsp garlic powder 1 ½ lbs. asparagus, trimmed Lemon slices to garnish Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place salmon in center of a foil-lined, lightly-greased baking sheet. Lightly brush the top of the salmon with olive oil, sprinkle with lemon pepper seasoning, salt and pepper. Top with lemon slices.

July 03 - July 16, 2020

In a small bowl, combine Parmesan and garlic powder. Arrange asparagus around salmon. Lightly brush with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan and garlic powder. Bake until salmon is cooked through, about 15 to 20 minutes.

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July 03 - July 16, 2020

Cover Story

Storage Port: The Best In Service, Security, And Location by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

Storage Port. In 2015, the Patterson family had the opportunity to purchase the land just south of Belle Mina (which was the site of the old elementary school) and in 2019, broke ground to build Storage Port. The facility is conveniently located at 5750 Mooresville Road, only 2500 feet away from the I-565 exit. Storage Port also houses Village Interiors & Specialty Gifts, along with an employment service called QS Professionals Corp. They are located near the new MazdaToyota plant. It is called Storage Port because the family has always enjoyed nautical themes. They also have a huge, beautifully displayed American flag as a landmark, and it can be seen from either direction, day or night, long before you get to the facility.

Speaking of facilities, Storage Port is top flight. There are 555 units of various sizes and 45 parking spots. Storage Port can accommodate commercial as well as residential storage needs, and they offer climate-controlled units. They are accessible 24/7 by way of a keypad. One of the things about which Patrick is the most pleased is the level of security at Storage Port. “It is safe, secure, and well lit,” he said. The Pattersons have also gone to great lengths to make sure that there are no blind spots, no places where the security cameras cannot see. Patrick has made a point of studying the storage industry in order to configure the best presentation, unit mix, and door size. The family now has had decades of experience in the storage business. The Pattersons told me that they believe they have the best customers anywhere, and many

of their Storage Port rentals are referrals from their longtime customers. One of the unique things offered at Storage Port as part of their customer service package is a sturdy lock and key. The lock is made from hardened steel. They wanted

to make sure that the highest level of strength and security was available at the lowest possible price. I asked Patrick, seeing as I have choices when it comes to storage units in the area, why I should choose Storage Port. He answered quickly,

“The cost. That is the critical point. We are the best value.” While the facility is available to clients 24/7 via keypad access, sometimes people have urgent storage needs that must be met right away. “We will meet people by appointment,” Patrick said. The office is staffed from 9-5 six days a week, and you can go on their Facebook page to book an appointment. Buffy Wallen works in the office, and she said, “I’ll never work for anybody else.” The Patterson family has always had a commitment to invest in the area through giving to charitable and community organizations, and they are strong supporters of local schools. I also asked Patrick what some of the most satisfying things were about being “at the helm” of Storage Port, and he said, “Being able to work with my family, and meeting the needs of our clients.” Patrick loves the concept of a true win-win situation, so give him the chance to show you the best there is in storage facilities by dropping by Storage Port today.

Storage Port 5750 Mooresville Road

Tanner, AL 35671 256-646-2251 Hours: 9-5 www.storageport alabama.com Facebook: Storage Port July 03 - July 16, 2020

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Health and Fitness

Parents Of Athletes, This One Is For You

by Nick Thomas, owner of Prime Performance Training, and Certified Sports Nutritionist Parenting is hard in today’s society for many reasons, but especially in the athletic world. There is a level of competition and expectation from a very young age which we have to try our best to guide our children through with as much grace and balance as possible. We need to foster their passions and talents while remembering they are young and should be having fun, all while we teach them to have the drive and self-motivation which gives them a competitive edge. Keep in mind that there comes a time when pushing is needed, and there is also a time to let them give in, knowing enough is enough.

best trainers, coaches, and equipment in the world, but if they are not putting the right foods at the right times in their body, it will NEVER fully benefit them. Kids are kids; they want junk food, I know, but start to teach them by example. Cook healthy family dinners and pack them nutritious lunches. When they ask for a snack, make it beneficial to what they are about to do, especially if they are headed to practice or a game. Keep the junk to a minimum. Yes,

they deserve the fun stuff filled with sugar on occasion, but make it a treat; don’t make it easily accessible in the house -- especially with the increasing amount of time we are home now; they will choose it every time. Make green vegetables and spinach something they eat daily, give them good healthy fats, and fill them with lean proteins and a balance of simple and complex carbohydrates. Most of all, pull the carbonated bever-

ages OUT completely. Make bottles of water and/or water bottles something that are easy to grab and drink all day every day. Sports drinks are okay in the height of activity but water, water, and more water all other times. And once again, I say, cut out the refined sugar!

we want them to be successful, but most of all we want them healthy and safe. Proper nutrition and training techniques are vital to achieving all of this. Make sure the guidance your athlete is receiving on and off the field and/or court is well educated and consistent.

Each child is different, and depending on their personal goals, sport, and training level, their nutritional requirements to perform at their best will vary. No matter the age of our children,

For more information regarding a personalized sports nutrition plan for your athlete contact me at Prime Performance Training. p r i m e p e r f o r m a n c e t r a i ning105@gmail.com

I don’t have all the answers, by any means, not to mention each child is completely different; but I want to share just a few simple things that can be done at home which can make a big difference. The most important thing for your child’s performance is proper nutrition. Now, nutrition is important for us all, but especially children and adolescents as their bodies are growing, developing and learning every day. However, it intensifies when you throw in a very active athletic lifestyle. Your athlete’s performance is dependent upon the fuel their body receives through proper nutrition. They can have the

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July 03 - July 16, 2020

Cover Story

Village Interiors And Specialty Gifts Expands To A New Location Near Historic Belle Mina by Ali Elizabeth Turner

continued from page 1

ded to work part-time at the new store, and headed off to Atlanta to market. They went in search of boutique items, such as signage to decorate a lakeside home. Susan took her friends as well as her daughter-in-law Michelle on the expedition. Shortly after, Village Interiors & Specialty Gifts was born. Since then, Susan and Michelle have worked together, now for 14 years, and thoroughly enjoy running the store. “When you enjoy what you do, work becomes play,” Michelle said. That being said, they have decided to expand and open an additional location at 5750 Mooresville Road just off of I-565. It is between the historic towns of Belle Mina and Mooresville. As Susan and I chatted, she asked

me a thought-provoking question: “What keeps small town independently owned brick-and-mortar stories relevant in today’s market?” Her answer: “A fun, happy place to shop; a place that features innovative displays, decorating trends, ‘Wow!-factor’ windows, and an interesting selection of products. All of them combine to create a satisfying shopping expe-

rience.” At Village Interiors, there are seven saleswomen who are lovingly referred to as “the Village girls.” They are always ready and willing to help any customer that has a specific shopping need for nearly any occasion. The Village girls seem to instinctively know how to tell if the person who just walked in is someone who needs and wants help if they are just browsing. They do teach their staff how to refine and improve their skills, but “the gift” has to already be part of their DNA. The Village girls will take their time to help you find exactly what you are looking for. They will make sure that you also leave with a great looking gift bag in tow. Michelle made me smile as she talked about the smell of their store. “It’s not something in a bottle; it’s the blending of the smell of several candle lines that make it so welcoming. We call it, ‘the Village smell.’ The other day we walked into the new store and realized that it now had ‘the smell,’” she said. Michelle added that even though there is a lot of online shopping going

July 03 - July 16, 2020

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on these days, and she does a lot of it herself, still there is nothing like being able to “walk in, to touch it, hold it, see it, imagine it in a room or as a gift, and have someone there in a store to help you.” Susan let me in on her process when it comes to finding the best items for her clientele. “I travel a lot and make a point of visiting stores that are like ours. If I can, I get to know the owner and say, ‘Look, I am from out of town, and I am not here to take your business. Would you tell me what is working for you?’” Susan has also networked with several other shop owners, and keeps up with the trade periodicals. The results speak for themselves. Some of the featured lines at Village Interiors include: Ronaldo Designer Jewelry, Hobo and Col. Littleton, Tyler, Voluspa and Swan Creek Candles, Sugarboo, Uttermost, Breezesta, Peepers, and Pura Vida. There is also lake and river art, as well as home décor, costume jewelry, boutique clothing, and fun accessories. These serve to make shopping at Village a pleasurable and affordable

experience. Whether you need a small hostess gift, the perfect wedding gift, or just a goody for your wife in the hopes of earning some much needed “husband points,” Village Interiors has “got you covered.” Before Michelle left to get to her next appointment, she told me the goal of Village Interiors and Specialty Gifts: “We want to make shopping an experience, and not a hassle.” Come let her show you exactly what she means and stop by either the Rogersville store or the new Storage Port store in Belle Mina today.

Village Interiors and Specialty Gifts

Belle Mina 5750 Mooresville Road, Tanner, AL 35671 (256) 646-2253 Rogersville 1601 Lee St. Rogersville, AL 35652 (256) 247-0998 Hours: Mon-Sat 10-5 Facebook: Village Interiors & Specialty Gifts Instagram: @villageinteriors www.shopvillage interiors.com

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July 03 - July 16, 2020

Jerry’s Journal

Where Hell Was Green, Part 1 by Jerry Barksdale By popular demand, we have decided to reprint archived articles written by our dear friend who passed earlier this year. We hope you enjoy the memories of one of Athens' true "characters." September, 1968. Somewhere over the South China Sea.

Benning, Georgia, he completed Advanced Infantry Training at Ft. McClellan, Alabama.

1st Lieutenant Joseph “Joe” Rogers, born in tiny Thomasville, Alabama and reared in nearby Demopolis was finally heading to Vietnam. By Christmas over 31,000 of his fellow Americans would be dead and the number was certain to rise.

That experience convinced him there had to be a better way of serving his country. “I got tired of crawling on my belly to the mess hall and doing push-ups at the drop of a hat,” he says. Fate intervened. One day a crusty old Sergeant walked out of the orderly room and bellowed at the young soldiers “All right you pukes, who wants to go to OCS?” That’s Officer’s Candidate School. “I was the first one to raise my hand,” says Rogers, who was accepted and sent to Ft. Sill, Oklahoma for a grinding sixmonth course.

At the moment, Rogers was more concerned with arriving alive than returning alive. The “Anxiety Flight” as the soldiers called it, was an old 727 rusty bucket owned by Northwest under contract to fly troops to Cam Rahn Bay. “All of the rivets rattled. It shook, rattled and rolled,” says Rogers, a resident of Limestone County since 1990. “We thought the wings were coming off. Not only that, they put the ugliest stewardess they could find on the plane. And the only thing we had to drink was milk, water, and soda.” Perhaps the miserable 13hour flight from Seattle to Tokyo and on to Vietnam was a harbinger of events to come. He hoped not. The plane rattled and droned onward giving him time to ponder why he was onboard. He had lettered in football, basketball, and track while working part time before graduating at Demopolis High School in 1962. The next two years, he worked and attended Livingston State College and the University of South Alabama. He dropped out a semester and Uncle Sam took notice. He was drafted on November 3, 1966. Following basic training at Ft.

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“It was tedious. Everywhere we went we had to run; constant harassment and dropping for pushups. There was Ranger Patrol in the barracks at night which was making us get down on our hands and knees with a towel and clean the floor.” He also learned about leadership, customs, traditions and even how to set a proper place at the table – things an officer needed to know. After receiving his “butter bars” and commissioned Second Lieutenant, he was assigned to a field artillery battery as Executive Officer in support of units that were going to Vietnam. “We stayed on the firing range day and night. No vacations, no July 4th, no holiday,” says Rogers. A year passed. “One day I was told I was going to a unit in Vietnam where I would need a top secret clearance.” The background check took 6 months and cost the government a wad of money. It included interviews with his high

school teachers and combing through public records where they discovered he had paid a trespassing fine as a boy after shooting a deer on government land. “It crossed a fence and died on private property. That became a big thing, and I had to explain what happened,” says Rogers, who eventually received top secret clearance. “But why top secret?” he wondered. It had to be something important. At least he wouldn’t be a grunt crawling through the stinking jungles, swatting mosquitoes and dodging bullets. Good news arrived. He would proceed to Vietnam for assignment to 2nd Field Force, headquartered in Saigon, a somewhat cushy job, with high Command. The plane dive bombed into Cam Rahn Bay to avoid small arms fire. Rogers stepped off into a steaming oven of 105 degrees. Quarters were assigned. A big burly Sergeant in charge of arrivals said: “Okay, all you officers come back tomorrow morning at 7:00. I’ll have your orders.” No worry. Rogers had his orders safely stowed away in his duffle bag. “I already have my orders for 2nd Field Force,” he told the Sergeant. Early next morning, he awoke to Vietnamese maids cleaning the barracks and paying no attention to half naked soldiers. He dressed and fell in formation. Shortly, the burly Sergeant appeared. “Okay, I got orders for you guys,” he said and started calling names. He called off two names to go to 2nd Field Force, but Rogers wasn’t one of them. “Something’s not right here,” Rogers said to the Sergeant. Then the Sergeant called Rogers name for assignment to the 1st Air Cavalry Division. “What? This can’t be!” Rogers handed his

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orders to the Sergeant who tore them in half and threw them in a small fire. “How can you do that?” asked Rogers. “The Government has spent all this money and it took six months to get my top secret clearance and the first thing you do is burn the orders.” “Sir, my orders are to backfill the 1st Air Cavalry Division and that’s exactly what I’m doing.” The 1st Air Cavalry had suffered heavy casualties during the recent TET Offensive and replacements were needed. Two days later, Rogers was helicoptered to Ankhe where the famed 1st Air Cavalry Division was headquartered. The Division, organized in 1921, was known as the “First Team.” Their predecessors had fought Indians on horseback. They were the first Americans to enter Manilla during World War II and the first to enter Japan. During the Korean War they were the first division to enter Pyongyang, North Korea, and they were the first Army division to be deployed in Vietnam. Instead of horses, now they rode helicopters. He spent 8 to 10 days in Ankhe polishing up on combat and survival skills and was issued a new uniform, boots and an M16 rifle. He knew he was heading to combat. Wearing his spanking new green uniform, he loaded into the belly of a C123 transport plane, found a seat on the floor and lifted off to LZ Nancy, a firebase located near the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone separating North and South Vietnam). The fire base was studded with heavy artillery and served as Battalion Headquarters. It was called “Palace Guard” by the men who rotated back there after days and sometimes weeks in the jungle on search and destroy operations. When patrolling grunts located the enemy,

they called LZ Nancy’s Fire Direction Center for artillery support. Shortly the big guns were belching steel. Rogers was assigned to 1s Battalion 77 Field Artillery as Battalion Ammunition Officer. His job was to keep several batteries supplied with ammo. The ammunition depot was located 22 miles north of LZ Nancy near the DMZ where his crew was located. Each day he went there by jeep, carrying mail, where ammo was loaded on “slingouts” and helicoptered to firebases. “Those guys were located away from their base and somewhat on their own,” says Rogers. “They were responsible for taking care of themselves.” As always, necessity is the motherhood of invention. “They had a ¾ ton truck to haul ammo, but it hauled only one half of what was needed at any one time,” says Rogers. The largest truck authorized was a 2 ½ ton called a “deuce-‘n- half.” He asked his crew about getting a larger truck. “Sir, the only thing we see around here are five ton trucks,” they replied. “Well, said Rogers. “If you can’t find a “deuce-‘n-half” and since 1st Cav doesn’t authorize a five ton truck, we’ll have to do with what we got.” Several days later, Rogers was at LZ Nancy when he saw a five-ton truck approaching in a cloud of dust. It was his ammo team. They had driven down to get mail, fresh uniforms and eat meals before returning the following day. “Where in the world did y’all get that five ton truck?” asked Rogers. “Sir, it’s a long story,” replied the Sergeant. “You see, there was this SeeBee up there. One night he got drunk Continued on Pg 23…

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Dog Barker

“Look! We Have A Jumper!” by Joel Allen

Not too long ago, I was shopping at our local Walmart with Mom and Dad. Now I must explain something to everyone about my parents. My dad is considered short; I mean he is shorter than me and definitely shorter than my mom. We all joke and call him vertically challenged, LOL! Anyways, we were at Walmart and Mom sends him to go to the chip aisle to get what they like. Well, a few minutes go by and Dad has not returned. So, Mom pushes the cart over to the chip aisle and I go with her. As we round the corner of the aisle, we see my dad actually jumping up, unsuccessfully, to reach a bag of chips that he wants. Mom and I start laughing and Mom says, “Look! We have a jumper!” Dad was not pleased with that remark, as was apparent on his face

because a stranger was laughing at our quip. I was acting like I did not know Dad by saying in a loud voice, “Sir, do you need assistance?!”… LOL. Poor Dad. I know there are times he wants a vacation from us. My question to my readers: “Is there a jumper with four paws in your family?” The one that likes to step in the mud and leave prints all over its victims? I have seen prints all over people who run into this type of jumper. It’s funny when it’s not me, LOL. So, what do we do to stop this undesirable behavior? As a trainer, I have given many solutions to this problem. One solution I suggest is a spray bottle that has never contained any chemical. The formula I recommend is 1 part vinegar to 2 parts wa-

ter. (Reverse the formula if the jumping is not curtailed.) There is always a certain way to apply the spray bottle method.* I recommend that when the jumper starts jumping for that attention it so desires, spray directly in a stream at the dog’s face. Aim for the nose and if the eyes get splattered, too, it is all right. The dog’s reaction should be sneezing, snorting and pawing at its face. At times there can and will be collateral damage when correcting your dog’s jumping problem by accidentally spraying its victim along with them. It happens folks. Now every time your jumper gets excited and ready to start jumping, just reach for that spray bottle. When your dog knows what a spray bottle is and sees it being reached for, your dog will stop…most of

the time. So, now we have established a way to curtail that jumping behavior. Let’s say that you still have a problem when returning home because your dog jumps on you as you come through the door. Your dog does this occasionally because they know that the spray bottle is not in your hands. My solution is to have a spray bottle in your car or handily hanging by the door. Then it’s ready to use as needed. Now, let’s train the dog in the behavior we want. Find yourself a volunteer. What we want to do is tempt the dog into jumping and then spray it when it does. The end result will be that even when there is someone trying to encourage the dog to jump up, it will not do so.

One more thing -- the spray bottle method is not the only method out there to use. An aluminum can filled with around 22 pennies is effective when shaken at the dog when it jumps. The sudden noise can scare them out of jumping. There are other ways to curtail this behavior, and maybe I will share them with everyone another time.

Remember, consistency is the key to success. Now, in parting I will leave everyone with one more problem that will come up. Every family has that one person who loves the family dog so much that they get the dog to jump up by calling it over excitedly, using that baby voice, and tapping their shoulders. What I do when I see this happen is grab the spray bottle and spray the one encouraging the jumping. That’s right, I spray the human. After all, they are the problem…LOL!

*(DISCLAIMER: This spray method, in my opinion, has a 90 percent success rate. Not all dogs will stop the undesired behavior by using the method I am suggesting. A warning to everyone, too: Do not walk up to the dog and spray directly in its eyes! Always spray dogs from a distance.)

“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 Allen 256-651-2211

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Mental Health Minute

The Psychology Of Color by Lisa Philippart, Licensed Professional Counselor

y y

h “Colors, like features, - follow the changes of g the emotions.” n - Pablo Picasso f r ,Have you ever felt anxious min a room painted yellow?

When you see blue, do you sfeel calm and relaxed? Artnists and designers know -that color can dramatically maffect mood, feelings, and yemotions. Color is a powernful communication tool and gis often used to influence emood, signal action, and geven influence biological treactions. For example, cerrtain colors have been linked Ito raising blood pressure, eincreasing metabolism, and eeven causing eyestrain. In -1666, Sir Isaac Newton ediscovered that when pure ewhite light passes through a prism, it separates into all sthe visible colors. Each of -these colors is comprised -of a single wavelength that lcannot be separated further -into other colors. NewIton also demonstrated that glight could be combined tto form other colors. For dexample, red light mixed !with yellow light creates an aorange color. Even though we see colors everywhere, little theoretical or empirical work has been conducted on color’s influence on psychological functioning. Yet despite the lack of research, the concept of color epsychology has become a hot topic in marketing, art, and design. Your feelings about color are often deeply personal and rooted in your own experiences and culture. For example, in Western coun-

July 03 - July 16, 2020

tries, white represents purity and innocence. But in Eastern countries, white is seen as a symbol of mourning. While perceptions of colors are somewhat subjective, there are some color effects that have universal meaning. Colors in the red spectrum (reds, oranges, and yellows) are known as warm colors. These warm colors evoke emotions of friendliness and comfort as well as feelings of anger and hostility. Colors on the blue spectrum (blue, purple, and green) are known as cool colors. These colors are often described as calm, but can also bring to mind feelings of sadness or irrelevance. In several ancient cultures, such as the Egyptians and Chinese, color psychology (chromotherapy) used color as a healing agent. Chromotherapy is sometimes referred to colorology. In fact, colorology is still used today as a holistic treatment. Blue is used to soothe illness and treat pain. Yellow is thought to stimulate the nerves and cleanse the body. Red is believed to stimulate the body and mind and increase circulation.

ed as more effective than cool-colored placebo pills. Red causes people to react with greater speed and force. Black uniforms are more likely to receive penalties. Interest in the subject of color psychology is growing, but there are more questions being raised than answers given. How do color associations develop, and how powerful are those associations on real-world behaviors? Can color be used to increase productivity in the workplace? Do certain personality types prefer certain colors? What colors have an impact on consumer behavior? Color can play an important role in conveying information, creating certain moods, and even influencing decision-making. Color preferences can also exert

an influence on the objects people choose, the clothes they wear, or the décor they place in their environments. These choices are often made based on the mood or feelings desired. While color can have an influence on how we feel and act, these effects are subject to personal, cultural, and situational factors. More scientific research is needed to gain a better understanding of color psychology. See the accompanying chart for color psychology effects: Green - Nature, safety, envy, luck Blue - Productivity, calmness, sadness, stability Red - Love, passion, anger, power

Black - Mystery, unhappiness, boldness, power White - Peacefulness, cleanliness, emptiness, innocence Yellow - Warmth, brightness, energy, attention Purple - Wealth, royalty, mystery, imagination Brown - Nature, isolation, security, strength Orange - Energy, enthusiasm, attention, happiness Pink - Calmness, romance, nurturing, kindness Lisa Philippart is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who divides her time between her own private practice in Huntsville and providing personal counseling services at Athens State University.

Most psychologists view color therapy with skepticism. Researchers have demonstrated, in many cases, that the mood-altering effects of color may only be temporary. For example, a blue room may initially cause feelings of calm, but that effect dissipates over time. However, research has shown that color can impact people in surprising ways. Warm-colored placebo pills were report-

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Jerry’s Journal (continued)

Where Hell Was Green by Jerry Barksdale

Continued from Pg 19… at the NCO club and was driving this five ton truck. I found him in a ditch - he had run off in a ditch.” “That’s just half the story. What’s the rest?” demanded Rogers. “This guy was passed out. We took him to the hospital and just took the truck.” About thirty minutes later, Rogers was summoned to Battalion Headquarters. The Colonel had seen the five ton truck also and knew it wasn’t authorized. Rogers explained

what happened and the Colonel relented, but with a stern warning. “Don’t ever - ever let this truck on this location again. I never want to see that truck again.” The truck gave good service and the crew was happy. “Over there, if you needed anything, you had to trade for it, scrounge for it, or do some midnight requisitioning,” says Rogers. Most nights at LZ Nancy were spent playing poker in hooches, but the biggest entertainment was shooting rats. “They were big as raccoons, “ says

Rogers. “If there was a lot of shooting going on, you knew there was a problem going on at the fence, but if one shot, it was the rat patrol.” He was just settling into his new job when he received orders to go to the field as an F.O. (Artillery Forward Observer). That meant he would be in the jungle on search and destroy operations where there was great danger. “When am I going?” he asked. “Tomorrow morning.” To Be Continued…

Mondays at 10am 1080 AM WKAC July 03 - July 16, 2020

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