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July 4 - July 17, 2014

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

Special Feature Tri-City Pest Control: Big Box Technology, Small Town Service... I don’t know exactly what to do with guys who love to get under houses, deal with termites, snakes, mice, roaches, mold, fungus, and any other results of the Fall of Man, except to... Page 7

Athens Rehab And The Eagles’ Tale By Ali Elizabeth Turner “Chill bumps” is a word we use in the South to describe something that touches us so deeply, (either in a positive or negative way,) that the result is that the hair (usually on our arms) stands on end. Out west they

Special Feature Southern Valley Services: Expanding The Ability To Serve Athens-Limestone... Sheila Marr, along with her husband Tommy have shown that outstanding customer care, hard work and a high level of professionalism have made... Page 11

Dog Barker Alexander’s Kingdom Of Training... When I was a kid I grew up not knowing that a dog should be... Page 20

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“The Eagle” and its admirers: L to R, Wayne Malone, Kay Russell James, Jerry Smith, Doug Maund, Sara Wallace, Diana Goodin, and Leigh-Ann Hughes

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say “goose pimples,” and in Hawaii they say “chicken skin.” When we get “chill bumps,” we need to pay attention, and that is exactly what happened to Tee and Jackie Jackson when they saw what has come to be affectionately referred to simply as “The Eagle.” Continued on pages 16-17

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Publisher’s Point Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

The Little Library That Could

Sales

Deborah Huff

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Delivery

Hunter Williams

Contributing Writers Shelley Underhill Lynne Hart Wanda Campbell Janet Hunt Teresa Todd Brian Black Joel Allen Dr. John Boyle, D.C. Libby McGaw Jerry Barksdale

It has been a week, as they say. A landmark Supreme Court decision re: Hobby Lobby’s right to have their corporate conscience protected from Obamacare, 3 Israeli teenagers brutally murdered, virtual amnesty for invading teenagers that are crossing our southern sieve-like borders, my beloved Iraq deciding to turn to Russia for help, (good luck with that,) and on top of it all, it is the 4th of July, one of my favorite holidays. The 4th is a fave because it finally means more to me than cookouts, kosher franks and fireworks, and even though after all these years the sounds of explosions still make me want to don my Kevlar, find a bunker, pray and do my labor breathing, I certainly am willing to be uncomfortable in order to honor my brave fore-

bears and be with my family.

me. Here goes.

On the one hand it looks like we are racing toward Armageddon, and on the other hand it looks like we might have a functional judiciary. And, back at the ranch, in Athens we are getting new sidewalks, and some folks ain’t happy. System Normal, All Messed Up, or, System Abnormal, All Blessed Up?

In Kansas, there was this 9 year old kid named Spencer Collins who is a member of a worldwide literacy promoting group called “Little Free Library.” In his yard there is a small structure that is sturdily built, painted blue, and is on red stilts. In it are books that are free for the taking, and it has been looked upon with favor by most of the community. But then, there were complaints because it apparently violated an ordinance. The mayor is trying to get the ordinance amended, the Collins’ are being patient with the process, and the complaining council member seems to be afraid that there is going to be a “Little Free Library” in every yard.

I always take seriously this space that is reserved for Publisher’s Point. God knows in this day of uber-communication, everyone sees themselves as the Great Communicator, and I have no desire to be “talking” to hear the sound of my voice and take up space. What to write? Then I found it, this dear little story, that in my view so illustrates the beauty of our great nation, and it essentially reached up and hugged

Spencer’s dilemma has gotten national attention, and other “librarians” have rallied to

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . . 4 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 6 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . . 7 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 8 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . . 11

support the Collins family. But what “wrapped a bow around it” for me was “the rest of the story.” Not too far from the Collins’ is a town in Kansas named Mission. A woman by the name of Gwenyth Jones had a “little free library” in her yard. It was vandalized, and over 100 books were taken. Then, “contagious community building” took over.

“I put a sign in my yard that the books had been taken, and people immediately started bringing books,” Jones said. “If anything, the vandalism has strengthened my desire to keep the momentum going in the KC area. I really believe it’s making a difference in the community; just look at how fast these books are showing back up.”

Worldwide, in over 62 countries there are about 15,000 registered “Little Free Libraries,” and in the Kansas City area alone there are over 30. In Alabama, we have a bit over 20, the closest being in Toney, and I’d love to see Athens “catch the bug.” Understanding that literacy is necessary for liberty to thrive just might turn you into a “little free librarian,” yourself. Happy 4th of July, and don’t forget to thank a veteran and a teacher for the blessing that is the freedom of the press, and the opportunity to read freely and for free in the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Clean and Green . . . . . . . . 12 Cooking with Shelley . . . . . . 13 Ali Elizabeth Turner Athens Now Information & Inspiration 256-468-9425 ali@athensnowal.com Website: www.athensnowal.com

Learning As A Lifestyle . . . . . . 14 Cover Story . . . . . . . . . 16 - 17 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 18 Dog Barker . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Security Savvy . . . . . . . . . 23 Jerry’s Journal . . . . . . . . . 24

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All Things Soldier

The VA In Disarray by Ali Elizabeth Turner At the end of his Second Inaugural Address, Abraham Lincoln concluded his speech with the following statement:

know as investigative journalism.) Here are some of his findings:

“With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations.” While I realize that in Alabama on the 4th of July Lincoln’s words could evoke any manner of responses, there is one phrase here that needs to be explored in light of recent disclosures about the deadly chaos in VA hospitals. In addition, the phrase

“Over the past decade, more than 1,000 veterans may have died as a result of VA malfeasance, and the VA has paid out nearly $1 billion to veterans and their families for its medical malpractice.”

must be respected, regardless of what happened or was said in 1865. This is because the words are still true, whether anyone can agree upon what they meant at the time they were spoken. The Veterans’ Administration adopted from the Address this phrase as its motto: “to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan.” Government involvement in caring for our veterans who have been involved in

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protecting us goes back to the 1630s, before we were even a fledgling nation. How it was done evolved through the centuries, and I remember references being made to “Old Soldiers’ Homes” when I was a kid. Here in Athens, we have men and women who are solidly behind our veterans and are part of the VA system, working to take care of wounds, seen and unseen. I have no desire to offend those who are valiantly endeavoring to care for our vets while they are possibly feeling they are rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic, nor do I wish to paint with a brush that is too wide. However, if we are going to be worthy of their sacrifice, if we are going to celebrate and rededicate ourselves to our nation under God during this 4th of July holiday, we need to both insist upon

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accountability and take action “to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace,” with specific reference to the “peace” that comes as a result of receiving high quality medical care in a timely manner. Government has its place, but this part of the system has fallen apart, and people are dead as a result. We now have proof that VA Hospitals have been the sites of death and delinquency, and it has to stop. US Congressman Tom Coburn of Oklahoma is retiring soon, and has compiled a scathing report released last week that is reminiscent of the “muckrakers” of a century ago. (The muckrakers were journalists who blew the whistle on a number of intolerable and scandalous activities in our country, and prefigured what we have come to

We can get, as my husband calls it, “all feffered up,” wring our hands and do nothing, or we can fight for our vets. How? First of all, stay on your local, state, and federal officials and hold them accountable while they call for accountability wherever it is needed. There is something else you can do, and that is just to “be there” for a vet. Vets don’t want pity, and they don’t want to be adopted like a pet or a kid with kwashiorkor. But maybe you could spend a day going with a vet and just keep him company while he waits forever to be seen at a VA hospital. Maybe you can bear witness yourself of his or her treatment. Maybe you can fill up his tank with gas, drive him yourself, babysit the kiddos, or have the family over for a dinner after they have had to pick their way through an administrative minefield. It might not be as fun as fireworks on the 4th, but the kind of fireworks we will be facing if we do not take care of “him who shall have borne the battle” will be deadly because we will have failed the ones to whom we owe the most.

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Calendar of Events Alice’s Garden Wonders Now - Aug 31st

race coordinator Angie Sandritter at angiem052013@gmail.com. Register at Active.com.

Hunstville Botanical Garden 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue Huntsville, AL. Step inside the looking glass and experience the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, play the Queen of Hearts’ Chess, get lost in the Door Maze, play a round of Queen’s Croquet, cool yourself at the Teapot and Teacup, wander the Queen’s Castle, visit Tweedledee and Tweedledumb’s home, and learn the mysteries of the Jaberwocky and the Mock Turtle. For ticket information, contact the Huntsville Botanical Gardent at 256-830-4447 or visit www.hsvbg.org.

Athens Fireworks Show Jul 4th

Athens High School 100 U.S. Highway 31N, Athens, AL. Show starts at dusk, bring your lawn chair.

Red, White and Fun! Jul 4th

Sci-Quest 1435 Paramount Drive, Huntsville, AL. Before rockets glare and fireworks are in the air, declare your right to have some science fun with red, white and blue experiments and activities from 1:00PM-5:00PM. Free admission all day to military personnel active and retired - and their families. For more information: sciquest.org/plan-your-visit/red-white-and-fun.

Rehearsal for Murder Jul 9th - 14th

Black Box Theatre, Fine Arts Building, Calhoun Community College, 6250 U.S. Highway 31 North, Tanner, AL. Join the Calhoun Theatre Deparment for their production of the mystery thriller Rehearsal for Murder. For tickets, times and information: vist the Calhoun Theatre calendar, call 256-306-2693 or email whp@calhoun.edu.

Cow Appreciation Day Jul 11th

Chick-fil-A Athens. 1291 U.S. Highway 72E, Athens, AL. Come dressed as Cow - spots, bells, horns and hooves - a get a special treat. For ideas and info: www.chick-fil-a.com/cows/appreciationday.

Running With The Goats Jul 12th

Belle Chevre Creamery, 18849 Upper Fort Hampton Road, Elkmont, AL. 7:00AM-5:00PM Join the 1st Annual Running With The Goats 10K, 5K, and Fun Run on the Richard Martin Rails-toTrails. Certified Course on a shaded trail, music, food, festivies for all. Music, great food and festivities for all. 7:00AM - 10K Start, 9:00AM - 5K Start, 10:00AM - Fun Run, 10:30AM-12:00PM Awards, Raffle and after race fun. For more information contact Page 6

Art Explorers: Africa, America, Mexico, Oh My! Jul 14th

For ages 8-12. Athens State University Center for Lifelong Learning, 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL. Join instructor Mary Katelyn Hall to explore a variety of cultures. Students will develop a creative story behind the mask they will build. Creating self-portraits and instruments will round out the week. Students will need to bring a large coffee can to camp. This class is scheduled Monday-Friday from 9:00AM-12:00PM. Fee is $69.00. Preregistration is required. To register please visit Center for Lifelong Learning page or by calling 256-233- 8620.

Singing on the Square Jul 18th

Downtown Athens, AL, 6pm. Join Athens-Limestone County Tourism for the 2014 season of this free concert series on the Marion Street side of the Limestone County Courthouse in downtown Athens, AL. For more information 256-232-5411 or visit the Singing on the Square page.

Classical Antique Boat Show Jul 18th - 19th

Marina, Joe Wheeler State Park, 4403 McLean Drive, Rogersville, AL. Come enjoy the antique boats on display including the showing of the vintage race boat “Miss America” at the Joe Wheeler Park marina. Free to the public. For more information 256-247-5461 or www.alapark.com/joewheeler.

Space Exploration Celebration Jul 18th

U.S. Space & Rocket Center, One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL. The Space Exploration Celebration from 5:00PM - 9:00PM is a reunion for those who worked in the U.S. Space program and for citizens who support space exploration. The celebration is an informal event that draws up to 800 guests from students to Apollo veterans. Event begins at 5:30PM with a buffet barbecue dinner, and program starts at 7:00PM at the Saturn V Hall. Tickets are $20.00 for Adults, $10.00 for ages 12 and under, Children 3 and under are free. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit: rocketcenter.com/SEC

2-Man Scramble Golf Tournament Sept 6th

Friends to Elect Eric Smith Sheriff sponsor a 2-Man Scramble Golf Tournament, at Southern Gayles Golf Course. Tee Time is 10:00 am. Cost is $65.00 per person. Registration form can be got at the golf course or can contact Donnie Smith 256-497-7002 or Eric Smith 256-777-1998.

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Special Feature

Tri-City Pest Control: Big Box Technology, Small Town Service by Ali Elizabeth Turner

I don’t know exactly what to do with guys who love to get under houses, deal with termites, snakes, mice, roaches, mold, fungus, and any other results of the Fall of Man, except to give thanks in general, and specifically for the fact that they are in Athens! I had a wonderful time of “educational fellowship” with Bryan Fennell, owner of Tri-City Pest Control, and learned that there are equitable ways of dealing with pests that are in sync with Nature, Nature’s God, and are still powerful enough to get the job done. Bryan has worked for other national chains, and found that he was highly uncomfortable when the company wanted him to pressure clients to purchase services that they didn’t need, and demonstrated a lack of integrity. He also worked for a local “hometown” pest control service, loved it, and when it was time to build his own business, largely modeled his company after the one he found was consistent with his values and work ethic. He has been in the pest control business for 14 years, and feels called to it. That is something I don’t understand, but certainly want to help promote!! Pests are undeniably pernicious. Getting rid of them takes persistence, skill, and soundly applied scientific knowledge. For example, ONE female cockroach can produce thousands of baby roaches, and roaches become quickly immune to fogging. Tri-City uses

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a product that interferes with their reproduction cycle without poisoning the environment. There is a product whose trademarked name is Gentrol. It “tricks” the female roach into thinking that she is permanently pregnant, but she never delivers the sac that would contain the offspring. Sometimes when infestations are so bad that they need a

for kids and pets, and will come and remove them. They will trap and relocate non-venomous snakes, and if there is a problem with poisonous snakes on a customer’s property, they will call Wildlife Services.

“knockdown,” Tri-City will make judicious use of fogging, but to eradicate roaches, first it needs to be understood that it can take 3-6 months, and then that disrupting the reproduction cycle is the only way to beat them permanently. Gentrol also stops the molting process, so existing roaches cannot go on to shed their skin, and then they die. Tri-City does everything possible to avoid what is known as “secondary kill.” That is what happens when a dog or cat catches a mouse or rat that has ingested what is known as “rodenticide.” Instead they will provide traps that are safe

“Excluding population is 90% of pest control,” Bryan told me. The first strategy is to use “exclusionary measures,” that is, making sure pests can’t get in. That can mean everything from plugging holes to making sure they can’t reproduce. “We don’t try to sell, we do inspections and determine what the customer truly needs,” Bryan said. “We see ourselves as stewards, and we don’t truly own a thing,” he added. What

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sold me was when he said that his commitment was to “earn your business the right way.” They will make sure that your property is free of fungus, mold, termites, beetles, rats, snakes, ants, roaches, and any other pest you can think of, and Bryan will personally come out and inspect to make sure that his techs did the job that was promised. TriCity also does real estate closings to insure that the buyer is protected from pests before “signing on the dotted line.” When you contract with Tri-City, every year you are guaranteed that they will do whatever it takes to make sure that your home is pest free, and that you, your family and your property will be kept safe in the process. Their contractual guarantee is for life, they inspect every year, and they will match or exceed the national chains as to contracts, warrantees, and guarantees. “We have the ‘big box’ tech-

nology, and the ‘hometown feel,’” Bryan told me confidently. He also made it very clear that he gives out his cell phone number so that clients can “talk to the owner if they need to,” and if there is a problem, “I will make it right.” He stands by his clients, and he stands by his techs. During our respective interview, he became aware that a promise had been made that was going to cost him dearly, but he had the commitment to both service and integrity to make sure the promise is kept. Not that long ago, that would have been expected in America. These days, however, it is rare, and it is nice to find someone whose word is their bond. If pests are prevailing in your digs or business, call Tri-City Pest Control, and let technology and a trustworthy business get rid of them forever.

Tri-City Pest Control

Office: 256-867-4311 Cell: 256-501-1079 www.tricitypest alabama.com tricitypest@gmail.com Page 7

What Makes Ronnie Roll

Leadership Versus Management

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

Mayor Ronnie just passed a milestone and became 70 years young. There were posters and parties and his yard got papered with impunity by the neighborhood in broad daylight. Truly “a good time was had by all,” and while celebratory joy is one of his trademark qualities, it is certainly counterbalanced with a goodly amount of introspection and wrestling with the One who made him.

He spoke of an outstanding series that his Sunday School class has been working through; William Barclay’s The Parables Of Jesus. We were all taught in Sunday School that God is

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perfectly capable of speaking through rocks and asses, and it seems that, amazingly, Barclay found that George Bernard Shaw said the following: “I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole community. And so long as I live it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can. I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work, the more I live.” Barclay goes on to say on page 130, “We are living in a world where the tendency is to try and extract more and more reward for less and less work; and at its basis this is not an economic problem at all, but a moral and a religious one.

Nearly all the problems of the world’s work would be solved if men and women everywhere attempted the Christian duty of putting more into life than they take out.” During our chats over the past few weeks, there have been several themes that have continued to resurface. One has been building community by teaching the way and the why of building community, as awkward as that sounds, and is illustrated above. Another has been both to celebrate the caliber of leadership that we see coming up in our area through our kids and young leaders, and to continually illustrate the need for more. Then he said something that I asked him to repeat because it crystallized a concept that unknowingly had been rumbling around in my own “recesses.” It needed to be “front and center,” and it was this: “There is a big difference between management and leadership.” Think of that. Most of the

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time we use the terms interchangeably, but they are not. He went on to say, “I think that management can be learned by most people. But someone needs to see you as a leader, and the skills of leadership are a combination of gift, training and life experience.” The man certainly has had his “baptism of fire” when it comes to life experiences since he took office in November of 2010. He has been “on the wall” through record snow, several tornadoes, having to find the balance between spending money to facilitate economic growth while remaining fiscally conservative, and fielding calls in his office that are at times the equivalent of calling the fire department to come and get one’s kitty out of a tree. He told me about a man that he would like to be like “when he grows up.” In all the years that he worked in Montgomery, he had sev-

eral bosses. And, like you and I, some were a dream and others a nightmare to be around and to work for. But there was this one guy….

“Ali, that man could inspire me and others to do anything for him and love doing it,” he said, “and that’s what kind of man I want to be.” “When you grow up?” I teased him a touch, given the “70” milestone. He laughed and rolled his eyes at me, as is his custom. Then we prayed, and I left with a new determination to be both a good manager or a steward of the things and situations I have been given, and to develop whatever leadership skills I have for the King, the Kingdom, and my beloved Athens. And that, my dears, is what happens when Ronnie is on a roll.

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Tourism

Fun Summer Activities For The Whole Family: July 1st –August 2nd by Teresa Todd, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association 100 Beaty Street, Athens, AL 35611 The fun the kids have been waiting for since last year arrives with the Athens Lions Club Kiddie Carnival at 309 East Forrest Street in Athens. From June 26th through August 2nd, the kids can come out on Thursday through Saturday and enjoy the carnival from 6:30PM to 9:30PM. The Kiddie Carnival will be closed on July 4th so the workers may enjoy the festivities with their families. The Fourth of July Fireworks Show will be held on Friday at dusk at the Athens High School football stadium. This is a great family gathering time to tailgate and get ready for the long weekend celebrating our country’s 238th year of independence. Every first Saturday of each month, come out to the Alabama Veterans’ Museum Coffee Call from 8AM-9:30AM. Also each first Saturday is the Athens Cruise-In. Enjoy a meal or do a little shopping at our unique restaurants and boutique shops. The Coolbone Brass Band will help market goers have a star spangled Saturday on July 5. The Athens Saturday Market will celebrate the Fourth of July weekend with the jazz band as well as children’s activities. The band will begin playing at 9AM and play until noon. The band will perform around The Square at 6PM during the monthly Athens

Cruise-In. On July 11th, come out to Chick-fil-A and enjoy Cow Appreciation Day at the location at 1291 Hwy 72E, Athens. Come dressed as a “cow” with spots, bells or horns and get a special treat. Now, I know you’ve heard of “The Running of the Bulls”, but have you heard of “Running with the Goats”? On July 12th in Elkmont, AL, you can join the “Running With The Goats” at Belle Chevre Cream-

at the Veterans’ Museum, 100 Pryor Street in Athens. Admission is free, the show begins at 5PM, gates and concessions open at 4PM. For more information con-

ery, which is located at 18849 Upper Fort Hampton Road, Elkmont, AL from 7AM-5PM. There will be a 10K, 5K, and Fun Run on the Richard Martin Rails-to-Trails. This is a certified course on a shaded trail, with music, food, and festivities for all. The rescheduled 3rd Annual Sam Gibbons Walking Horse Show will take place on July 19th. The FREE event will be held at the Limestone County Sheriff’s Arena on Highway 99, Athens, AL. Join the Alabama Veterans’ Museum for their annual fundraiser benefitting the museum expansion project. Class sheets can be picked up

tact the Veterans’ Museum at 256-771-7578. The CASA Mud Volley Tourna-

ment on July 19th held at Athens Swan Creek Park located at U.S. Highway 31, Athens, AL will have approximately 100 teams compete for the championship as they play volleyball in the mud. It’s mudslinging fun for teams and spectators alike. Then, for a little more dirt action, come to the Jul 25th - 26th AL Championship Tractor and Truck Pull in Tanner. Join the Tanner Quarterback Club for this annual fundraiser that revs things up and slings a little dirt. The Piney Chapel American Farm Heritage Days on August 1st and 2nd,located at 20147 Elkton Road in Athens, celebrates the life on the farm and the preservation of antique engines, tractors and other equipment. They will have the Parade of Power, Fast Crank Competition, Slow Races, the Ladies’ Skillet Throw, and the kids can take a chance with the Pedal Pull.

Limestone County is lucky to have such a large fondness for all types of equines. On Aug 1st and 2nd, Ardmore puts on their 22nd Annual Police & Reserves Rodeo at the John Barnes Park, 30510 Ardmore Ridge Road, Ardmore, TN. We invite you to support the Ardmore Police Department and Reserves while enjoying this excellent family activity. Athens Limestone County Toursim Association is open Monday-Friday, 8AM-4:30 PM. Come by and look through the display of brochures, information leaflets, and post cards. We will be glad to tell you more about beautiful Limestone County. Visit our website at www.VisitAthensAL.com email info@VisitAthensAL.com or call 256-232-5411.

“We have what you love about the South”!

Don’t Runoff elections are Tuesday, July 15th Forget IT’S IMPORTANT!!! to VOTE! Page 10

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Special Feature

Southern Valley Services: Expanding The Ability To Serve Athens-Limestone by Libby McGaw

Sheila Marr, along with her husband Tommy have shown that outstanding customer care, hard work and a high level of professionalism have made taking the risk of starting a business in a recession a worthy one. They own Southern Valley Services, and their primary focus is providing energy audits and consulting for homeowners and builders who are interested in having a more efficient home. Their goal is to help homeowners have more affordable, comfortable and healthy homes. “Homeowners should think of their whole house as a system. Each building component affects the other. If the home or duct work is leaky or not insulated properly, the heating and cooling system has to work harder to do its job. Thus higher energy costs, less comfort. So, just replacing or upgrading the heating and cooling system doesn’t solve the problem, and sometimes can make it worse,” said Sheila. By conducting a thorough inspection of the property and diagnostic testing, Southern Valley Services is able to determine the source of the loss, and make prioritized recommendations. Often, the least expensive improvements make the biggest difference, and that’s what they help homeowners to understand and implement. Sheila and Tommy relocated to the Athens area in 2005 from East Tennessee where they owned a residential construction firm. Tommy grew up in the construction industry, and began building on his own right out of high school. Both he and Sheila have worked in Real Estate and had Broker’s licenses in Tennessee and Alabama. Tommy has also managed commercial construction

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projects, and oversaw construction of several large projects here in Limestone County. He was also a regional manager for the TVA Energy Right Solutions In-Home Energy Efficiency Program in North Alabama. Because of their understanding of construction and true cost of home ownership, SVS was formed to work with residential builders to build more energy efficient homes while assisting them in obtaining Energy Star Certification and qualifying as a TVA Energy Right Solutions New Home. The Marrs have continued to increase their knowledge and certifications to be able to provide more services to their customers. The company is a member of the TVA Quality Contractor Network and Energy Professional with the Nexus Energy Center. TVA, in partnership with local utilities, offers rebate programs for energy improvements that can save homeowners on their utility costs, and make their homes more comfortable. As business has increased, Tommy has joined SVS full time. He had the following to say: “Southern Valley Services is growing and expanding services to include Certified Home Inspections for people who are in the process of purchasing a home, or preparing a home to sell. Homebuyers are encouraged to have the potential purchase inspected for unseen issues that could turn the excitement of a new home into the burden of unexpected costs and repairs. Alabama is still a “buyer beware” state, which means a seller is not required to tell you if there are things needing replacement or repair unless it is a health or safety issue; so a home inspection should be on the must do list. Alabama has also adopted an

energy code. October 2012 marked the beginning of required energy code compliance on new construction. Southern Valley Services inspects hundreds of homes each year during the construction process to certify both Energy Code compliance, as well as a HERS index rating. A HERS index rating is sort of like the “miles per gallon” label on a car; telling the buyer the estimated energy usage of that home. In areas where no permitting is required, like Limestone County outside of the city of Athens, the State still mandates compliance with the Energy Code. However, since there is no enforcement present, people should consider having a home inspection done in these areas even on a new home.” Services available now through Southern Valley Services include: •Home Energy Assessments •Certified Home Inspections •New Home Energy Code Compliance •HERS Index Rating •Home Energy Modeling for New Home Construction or renovations With Tommy as the Chief Operations Officer, services have been expanded to include facilitation of energy improvements.

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Because they conduct the inspections and testing, they know exactly what needs to be done and how. Southern Valley Services owners Tommy is now in a Tommy & Sheila Marr position to be presand cooling system replaceent on site during the improvement process until its ment, adding or improving incompletion. Once completed, sulation, and window replacepost testing can be conducted ments. This is because the two to insure that the improvement high demand seasons have not process was successful. Sheila hit yet. There is time to do a mentioned “this was a service methodical energy assessment, that many customers were re- and not have to be in “crisis questing because they didn’t mode,” either because somefeel confident about having the one is freezing or melting. work done properly or being There is a virtual “Trifecta” able to do the work themselves. when it comes to energy audits Tommy makes sure it’s done and resultant problem solving. First, there is “air sealing,” that right.” They are able to consult on ev- is, finding the leaks wherever erything from brand new con- they may be and stopping them. struction to historical homes. Then, it is installing proper inRecently they were involved in sulation to fix what is known improving the energy outlay of as “heat bleed.” The final step a house built in the 1800s, and is making sure the duct work were able to do so without com- is installed correctly and with no leaks. Let Southern Valley promising its historic integrity. She said, “We see places where Services come and give a carethe attic is full of insulation, ful assessment of the most imand it’s still cold or hot.” That portant material investment of can be as the result of leaky your life, your home. duct work or other sources of Call Sheila Marr at energy leaks, and that’s what 256-497-5595, their crew searches out and coror email her at rects. Spring and Fall are the sheila@southern best times to schedule home imvalleyservices.com. provement projects like heating

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Clean and Green

4H Members Learn About Solid Waste And Recycling by Lynne Hart

Recently I went on a bus tour with a group of 12 and 13 year old students who are members of 4H. I’m sure the kids were disappointed that we didn’t go to Six Flags or the Birmingham Zoo. Instead, we were headed out to learn about recycling and waste management. I didn’t see a lot of excited faces at the start of the tour, but things changed as the day went on. Our group of 30 students and 7 adults made our first stop at Tiffin Motorhomes in Red Bay, Alabama. It was fascinating to watch the process of a motorhome being built from the wheels up. It was also good to see how careful they are not to waste materials, and how materials that can’t be

used are recycled. Even the polystyrene “snow” and saw dust are vacuumed up and reused. Our second stop was at the Athens-Limestone Recycling Center, a division of Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful. The group was divided up and lead on a tour by members of the center staff and board members. My group of students was fascinated with the cardboard baler. They also noticed how much garbage was mixed in with the plastics as they watched an employee remove it by hand. One of my students asked “Why would people put garbage in with their stuff to recycle?” I allowed the students to come up with their own ideas

and you can imagine what was suggested! The recycling center tour also included stops at the motor oil, FOG, newspaper, office paper, glass, metals, and electronics stations with tour guides explaining the processes involved in handling these materials to prepare them for sale. Next, we had lunch at the McDonald’s on Hwy 31 in Athens. I must say, they handled the influx of 37 people during the lunch hour extremely well! With lunch under our belts, so to speak, the group headed to Custom Polymers PET on

Elm Street in Athens. This company purchases all of the plastic that is baled at our recycling center and processes it into flake and pellets that are used by other companies to make new products. The plastic that is purchased from our recycling center each month only keeps Custom Polymers’ plant running for about 2 hours! Since they operate 24 hours a day 365 days a year, they have to purchase plastic from across the United States and several other countries! According to the EPA, only about 10% of all plastic bottles used in the United States are recycled making it necessary to ship plastic in from foreign countries. We should do better. A large amount of the pellets sold by Custom Polymers are used to make new drink bottles; however, recycled plastic is also used to make clothing, carpeting, clam shell containers you find at the grocery store, sleeping bags, and much, much more! KW Plastics in Troy, Alabama uses materials from Custom Polymers to make paint cans, which are then sold locally. What a great way to keep employment, revenue, and recycled products right here in our state! Our last stop on the tour was Covanta Solid Waste-to-Ener-

gy Facility in Huntsville, Alabama. This is the only plant of its kind in our state. Covanta is located on property next to Redstone Arsenal and began operations in 1990. This facility processes 690 tons per day of solid waste and sewage sludge. Solid waste brought in by trash trucks is mixed to dry and add air to the compressed waste by a large claw operated by a Covanta employee. One of the boys commented, “It’s just like playing a video game!” This facility does not generate electricity, but the fire that burns continuously at 2,000 degrees boils water to create 180,000 pounds of steam per hour that travels along a 6-mile pipeline to the Arsenal for their heating and air conditioning needs. It was a long day and we had travelled many miles, but by the end of the trip it was obvious that the kids were much more aware of what happens to their trash when they throw it “away.” They now know how their decisions affect what happens to that trash and most will be more mindful in the future. If you are interested in a tour of these facilities, contact the KALB office. We’ll be glad to help!

Become a Fan

(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com Page 12

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Cooking with Shelley

Rice Sticks

by Shelley Underhill

Rice Sticks, have ya ever heard of them? I have noticed them in the ethnic section of the super market from time to time. I notice them most when I get on a kick to fix my own Chinese food. I would always see them and wonder how they were fixed. Well, I don’t have to wonder any more. My brother and I had a “Rice Sticks Cook Off,” and guess who won? No, really there was no contest, but we did have a lot of fun and learned a lot about the different kinds and brands of rice sticks. Since that cook off, I have tried several different versions. I really believe this one is the best. Email me and let me know if you try it. You can contact me at shelleysdesk@gmail.com Enjoy!

What you will need: 1 large onion, cut in chunks

¼ red bell pepper, cut in chunks ¼ yellow bell pepper, cut in chunks ¼ green bell pepper, cut in chunks 2 green onions, sliced thin 2 tablespoons SAZON seasoning 3 tablespoons sesame seed oil 4 tablespoons olive oil 1 pack of MAIFUN rice sticks 3 center cut pork chops, sliced thin cut in chunks 2 ½ cups chicken broth

What you will need to do:

Cook MAIFUN rice sticks as directed on package. Drain and put to side. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sesame seed oil. Put pork into hot skillet, cook until done. Add onion and bell peppers, and sauté until done. Add chicken broth to the mix, stir well. Add rice sticks, stirring until all of the broth is soaked up by the rice sticks. Serve and enjoy.

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Learning As A Lifestyle

Where Did That Word Come From? by Wanda Campbell

Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 I love words. I enjoy the regional dialects, words with long histories, semantics (the study of linguistics or meaning of words), and etymology (the word source). Most of us never consider the words we speak. We concentrate instead on the meaning we intend or the tone we use to say things, but a word’s origin and its original intent are interesting as well. Consider the word “blackmail.” We all think of blackmail as a payment coerced by threats. Several sources say the word started from a word that meant tribute or rent. Its origin was during the border war between Scotland and England. Groups would offer to protect border farmers from invasion for a price. Because the farmers were poor, they paid in “black mail” – grains, meats, or coppers – instead of “white mail” – silver coins. Over time, the word began to mean getting payment by threat. (1975 - 1981 by David Wallechinsky & Irving Wallace, “The People’s Almanac” series of books) The origin of the word mail (mal) is from the Old English or Old Norse meaning agreement. The Scots used it to mean

agreement referring to rent or tax. How about another one? I recently bought a jar of orange marmalade to make orange chicken. After buying the jar, I wondered where does “marmalade” come from? A quick trip to the computer told me lots about it. Marmalade is a jelly-like preserve that is made from fruit and fruit rind. There is a story that the name of the concoction is from Mary, Queen of Scots. “Spanish oranges had been stored there, and

tered again and again as he racked his brain to invent something new for her, and ‘Mariemalade’ they had called it ever since.” (The Gay Galliard: the Love Story of Mary, Queen of Scots, by Margaret Irwin, 1942.) In truth, marmalade is originally from Portugal where it was made from quinces. The quinces were originally cooked into a pink paste and served as a dessert you could cut with a knife. The preserves were called marmalada after the Spanish

words.org/qa/qa-mar3. htm)

she [Mary] made a new sort of preserve — called after herself as she told them proudly, for the cook at her grandmother’s chateau of Joinville had made it to tempt her appetite when she was ill; ‘Marie est malade,’ he had mut-

word for quince which was marmelo. Since it stored well, it was exported to England in wooden crates. It was an expensive treat so English cooks substituted other fruits trying to make their own “marmalades.” (http://www.worldwide-

Not too long ago, my son Ben told me a story about how the word for golf caddy came from Mary Queen of Scots too. He said that when the Scots would come to France to see Mary, they brought the game of golf with them. She would ask her cadets to carry the golf clubs. He

said because the Scots did not understand the pronunciation, they changed “cadet” to “caddy.”

I don’t know if that story is true or not but I did find that “According to Scottish golf lore, the term caddy is derived from the French word, ‘le cadet.’ This term means, ‘the boy,’ or, ‘youngest of the family.’ The word ‘cadet’ first appeared in English in 1610, with the word ‘caddy’ following shortly thereafter in 1634.” (http://golftips. golfsmith.com/origingolfing-term-caddy-2460. html) So I suppose Mary could be responsible for that term after all.

Words are an adventure. Learning is a lifestyle.

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Visit smart.athens.edu to get started.

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Cover Story

Athens Rehab And The Eagles’ Tale by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

Tee and Jackie head up the Community Relations Team at Athens Rehab and Senior Care, and joined the staff in 2013. As such, they wear many hats, including that of Public Relations, chaplains, staff and patient pastoral care, education, and ministering in general. Tee is also an ordained minister, and has been a part of the ministry team at First Baptist in Athens for many years. Additionally, he served as Principal and Vice-Principal at Athens High School, taught history and “coached everything.” Jackie spent decades as an administrator in the health care field, serving as the office manager at the practice of Dr. Frank Cauthen

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and Dr. Wendell Shannon. She has a special love for seniors that came about in part as a result of having a remarkable relationship with her grandparents, who were married for 82 years and were record holders published in the Guiness Book of Records. They were 17 when they were married, and 99 when they died! Last year the Jacksons were eating at Cracker Barrel, (as is the custom of many Athenians,) and saw “The Eagle” out in the country store part of the restaurant. That is when the “chill bumps hit.” Without conferring with each other, both of them thought of how much it would minister to the veterans of our community, the ones at Athens Rehab and elsewhere. They bought it and

Miss Athens Rehab Beauty Queen Nancy Biggs, and Korean Era Vet Mattye Murray showed it to Sara Wallace, the Administrator at Athens Rehab and Senior Care. Her “chill bumps” were sufficiently strong to nudge her in the direction

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of purchasing that one for the facility. She purchased another one as well, and the second was presented to the Alabama Veterans’ Museum and Archives

by Sara, along with the facility’s co-owner John Plunk. Both eagles have been utilized as props in Jackie Greenhaw’s productions that have honored

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our vets, and will be used again in October of this year when the program will focus on remembering our Vietnam vets. Between now and then, though, one of the Eagles is being given a special home at Athens Rehab through the artisan craftsmanship of local cabinet maker Jerry Smith. Housing one of these silver toned symbols of freedom comes with special demands, given the fact that the vast majority of the population at the facility is wheelchair bound. The birds are also are not lightweights, each tipping the scales at about 100 pounds. The first thing Jerry did was construct a base made of solid cherry upon which the eagle rests. There are two engraved plates and a patriotic symbol surrounding the statue, and all of it is viewable both from a wheelchair as well as from a standing height. The display case that will be the eagle’s “home” will have glass on three

sides, and Tee told me, “It is going to be displayed in a prominent location in the dining hall. This location will maximize the number of residents, employees, and guests who view the eagle.” The Eagle is not the only patriotic project having been completed at Athens Rehab and Senior Care. In the past year plus, owners John Plunk and Doug Maund saw to it that the entire facility was given a facelift, inside and out. They are both solidly behind the “Eagle project,” and have done more to show forth an American spirit. On both the Market Street entrance as well as that of the entrance on Washington Street, two new flagpoles have been erected, each a bearer of Old Glory. This is an important reminder for all of us of the freedoms we hold dear, and the price that has been paid to maintain that freedom. It should come as no surprise that the Center is home to many veterans, and multitudes of vets pass through the Rehab wing as they re-

cover from various health challenges. Remembering them and making them feel honored can contribute significantly to their quality of life, which has been proven to speed recovery from both chronic as well as acute medical conditions. It is pretty much part of our local culture to be patriotic, and my experience is that many citizens have had a “defining moment” when it comes to igniting a passionate love for our nation. For Sara Wallace, it was 9/11. She was a small child during the ‘60s, not old enough to understand the chaos that was caused by people like I used to be, but vaguely aware that something was wrong. Then she, like many, got busy with “living the dream,” but not completely connected to those who made it possible, i.e. our troops, past and present. Her “wake up call” was 9/11. “Before then, we were untouchable,” she told me. “There were no threats, no opposition, and at that time I did not fully appreciate

Jerry Smith, creator of the Eagle’s “home.” L to R, Sara Wallace, Queen Nancy Biggs, and Jerry Smith

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the ladies and gents who fought for us to be free,” she continued. For a moment, we had to swallow hard to fight back tears. She in her own way had just been caught up in the extraordinary blessings that America affords, and I had been caught up in trying to destroy it. “We serve the God of second chances,” we said. Since that time, both of us have become ardent soldier supporters. She told me, “Anytime we can support vets and their families, we will,” she said. Then she told me about her other “defining moment,” the one being when she first laid eyes

on “The Eagle.” “When I first saw the eagle, it was mesmerizing,” she said. “I got cold chills,” she added, and told me that she thought “it was a wonderful symbol of our freedom.” That’s why she has been so happy to do whatever it takes to give “The Eagles” a good home. Come see them at either Athens Rehab and Senior Care, the Vets’ Museum, or on October 26th at the Senior Center. And, as you are enjoying the fireworks and cookouts that have become part and parcel of this holiday, thank God and a Vet for your freedom.

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Health and Fitness

Developing Healthy Habits by Janet Hunt

Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment. People always ask me how I stay so thin and fit. Many of the good and beneficial habits I have today were developed in my childhood. Let’s start with our diet. Fast foods were not around so we pretty much had to eat healthy meals at home around the dinner table. When McDonald’s opened a restaurant, everything was small – no supersizes and no special sauces. The meals at home were simple, but healthy – meat, potatoes and a vegetable. Dessert was for special occasions – birthday, holiday, and a peach cobbler when peaches were in season. Snacks were rare. I remember having a Baby Ruth candy bar now and then (which was smaller than those today). During the school year, we could bring a lunch or we could purchase a school lunch which did not involve choices. My mother chose the school lunch. School lunch did not offer hot dogs, pizza or even hamburgers.

even more time in the water–swimming or looking for pennies we dropped to the bottom.

So if you have children, start now with healthy habits:

•Eat healthy meals at the table with the family

•Limit dessert to only special occasions

•Limit snacks to only healthy, low calorie snacks such as fruits or vegetables •Skip sodas and fruit juices entirely

•Play outside – encourage active lifestyle

•Limit screen time (TV & video/computer) and time seated Lunch may not have been the home cooking, but it was healthy and we ate it. Midmorning and midafternoon we had recess, not snack time. During one of the recesses we were given a small carton of milk (coke and fruit juice were not available). Besides the milk, we played outdoors if

the weather permitted. We jumped rope or hula hooped if someone brought rope or a hula hoop to school. Sometimes, we had organized games which involved kickball, dodge ball, red rover, or some kind of tag. After school, we played some more. We did not eat snacks and drink soda after school, we played. Since we only got 3 channels on the television, it never occurred to us to watch television. We ran, we jumped, we climbed, and we pedaled. In the summer, we chased lightning bugs.

lake, we played on inner tubes and taught ourselves how to swim so we could swim out to the dock in the lake and practice diving. Once in a blue moon, the concession stand would be open. We got popsicles that we broke in half and shared. After we moved, we had a swimming pool so we spent

•Avoid fast food and eat out only occasionally for special occasions

•Enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables when they are in season

I realize times have changed and our choices are amazing. Choose wisely and help your children grow into healthy adults.

During our summer, we were lucky enough to live near a small lake. At the

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Dog Barker

Alexander’s Kingdom Of Training by Joel Allen

When I was a kid I grew up not knowing that a dog should be trained. I thought that Lassie, Old Yeller, and Rin Tin Tin were just plain smart dogs. TV has a funny way of encouraging the way we think and believe, and life has a way of educating all of us to what reality is. So, when “Little Girl,” whose mother was a Dacshund and her father a Pitbull, came into my life, I believed she could do anything. Well, she did and she didn’t. She didn’t talk like me and she didn’t eat everything I ate, though she would have loved to. As we grew up together, I would talk to her and she would just look at me as if she knew exactly what I was saying. She also liked to bark excitedly when we came home, jumping into anyone’s stomach she was glad to see. Talk about getting the wind knocked out of you! She also loved fireworks. She would chase down bottle rockets and catch them. When they exploded in her mouth she would shake it off and bark for more. Fireworks were not the only thing that excited her. She loved to fish with the family and was the main reason we lost a few fish. Every time we cast our corks out, she would swim out and bring them back. We often had to tie her up if we were going to catch anything. She loved to bark at the fish and would dance back and forth while the person who had the fish was trying to unhook it and dance back and forth dodging her. The look alone she had was priceless. It was screamPage 20

ing, “Oh give it to me!” The whole scene usually ended in the fish flipping out of our hands and landing back in the water. Thus, if hunger was an issue, we were gonna starve. Then there was the time we caught a snapping turtle that made the mistake of “honking” Little Girl’s nose. Needless to say she got even by cracking the turtle’s shell and eating it. From then on we renamed her “Turtle Girl.” We never trained Little Girl, but she just learned what we showed her and allowed her to do. Take for instance, the three growl warning. She growled three times and then someone got bit. My Dad taught her that when she was still a puppy. One night she kept on whimpering and Dad told her three times to stop and finally after the third time he picked her up and threw her into her doghouse. From that time forth she gave three warnings and then “chomp.” I believe had we taken Little Girl in for training, she would have been a better dog for it. Since 2010, I have been a Certified Dog Trainer and have trained a thousand plus dogs. Recently a growing demand has caught my attention. I have been asked many times if I will ever offer advanced training. Well, everyone, I have some news. I can be a stubborn man when it comes to change, and after much prompting by friends and family, I have moved up on the technology board. No longer will you have to find me by tracking smoke

signals, Morse code, or sending me a message by bird. I can now be found on Facebook. Here is what we are telling people from our newly born Facebook page: “Alexander’s Kingdom of Training offers dog training from the very basic to the more ad-

vanced skill levels. Basic classes are $75 for a 4 week class, covering Loose Leash Walking, Stay, Sit, Sit and Stay, Come, Down, and Down and Stay. Intermediate classes are $100 for a 6 week course and covers

Stop and Go, Stay, Come When Called, Bring It and Drop it, and Leave It. Advanced classes are $125 for a 6 week class and covers Too Far, Formation Walking, Hand Signals, No Leash and more.” We are currently working on a web page where pictures and videos will be available from these sites. Now ask yourselves, “Does my canine family member need training?” “Do I need training?” “Is my dog like Little Girl?” I believe there is no dog that cannot be trained. Sure the dog(s) can be stubborn and reject the training, or they may even take to part of the training. All training takes time and direction. Besides, training is an investment of the heart and mind. Plus, the prices listed give less of an excuse not to train that canine family member. So, sit down with your family and make a list of what you would like Fido/Fidoette to do. Family meetings are important because without the entire family sharing the responsibility of training the canine family member, training can become difficult. “Remember to love your dogs because they love you. Maybe not the way you want them to, like chewing up your favorite shoes or what not, but that is just love chewing. Be thankful for the time you have with them always.”

Joel and Zues Allen 256-651-2211

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Medical Update

Renewing The Body’s Cellular Communication System

By Dr. John Boyle, D.C.

The adult human body is made up of about 37 trillion cells. WOW, that’s a lot of cells! In fact, if you lined up all the cells in a human body end-toend, you could actually circle the earth more than 2 times.

ing. Cells must be able to send a signal to communicate. Problems get worse when cellular communication goes wrong and the result is disease. In fact, most diseases involve at least one breakdown in cell communication.

Cells communicate by sending and receiving signals. Signals may come from the environment, or they may come from other cells. In order to trigger a response, these signals must be transmitted across the cell membrane. Sometimes the signal itself can cross the membrane. Other times the signal works by interacting with receptor proteins that contact both the outside and inside of the cell. In this case, only cells that have the correct receptors on their surfaces will respond to the signal.

For example, let’s look

According to an article on www.redoxsignaling. com by Dr. Peter Proctor, “redox signaling is the concept that electrontransfer processes play a key messenger role in biological systems.” This “redox signal” determines damage extent. Our cells are constantly under attack from bacteria, pollution, pesticides, chemicals, and even ag-

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tells your liver, muscle and fat cells to store this sugar for later use. In type I diabetes, the pancreatic cells that produce insulin are lost. Consequently, the insulin signal is also lost. As a result, sugar accumulates to toxic levels in the blood. Without treatment, diabetes can lead to kid-

ney failure, blindness and heart disease in later life. Type I and type II diabetes have very similar symptoms, but they have different causes. While people who have type I diabetes are unable to produce the insulin signal, those with type II diabetes do produce insulin. However, the cells of type II diabetics have lost the ability to respond to insulin. The end result is the same: blood sugar levels become dangerously high.” (http:// learn.genetics.utah.edu/ content/cells/badcom) When communication is restored, the problems can be solved and health improves. It is actually quite simple. Redox signaling is universal to every function and system in your body and naturally created within every cell. As we age, our cells make fewer and fewer of these molecules, and the body’s ability to combat everyday

at diabetes. According to the University of Utah’s Health Sciences Department, “The food that you eat is broken down into sugar, which enters the blood stream. Normally, cells in the pancreas release a signal, called insulin, that

ailments decreases. To meet this challenge, a number of physicians and researchers have been collaborating to see if there is a viable way to assist the body in restoring its own cellular communication system. More than sixteen years ago, a group of medical professionals, engineers, and researchers discovered a proprietary method for creating Redox Signaling molecules native to the human body, and have recently made it available to consumers. Hazel Green Chiropractic Clinic has added ASEA and RENU 28 to its line of services and products that we believe will improve the quality of life and health for our patients, in combination with chiropractic treatment. We have found these products to be invaluable in strengthening our immune systems, fighting disease, and the effects of aging. It’s even proving to be remarkable for naturally enhancing stamina and decreasing recovery time for athletes of all types. ASEA and RENU 28 are now available through Dr. John Boyle at Hazel Green Chiropractic. If you are interested in receiving more information on how regular chiropractic care in combination with ASEA and RENEW 28 can take your health and quality of life to the next level, contact us at Hazelgreenchiropractic@yahoo.com or simply text your email address to 256-503-2276.

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Security Savvy

Heat Strokes: Summer’s Deadly Calling Card by Brian Black, Operations Manager of Madison Security Group 203 Us Highway 31 S, Athens, AL 35611

We are in that time of year when we want to work and play outside all day. The sky is clear and there is a gentle breeze, but hidden danger can be lurking around the corner-heat stroke. It never fails. People do not take proper precautions to prevent heat strokes and it could cost them, dearly. In July of 2012, the Alabama Department of Health reported 650 illnesses or deaths resulting from heat strokes. It’s not just adults; the children’s safety network reports that an average of 38 children each year die from heat related causes because they were left in the car.

Here are some things you need to do to prevent a heat stroke.

•Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. Wearing excess clothing or clothing that fits tightly won’t allow your body to cool properly.

heat stroke:

over their body.

•high body temperature

•Wear light-colored clothing if you’re in the sun. Dark clothing absorbs heat while light-colored clothing can help keep you cool by reflecting the sun’s rays.

•flushed skin

People are not the only one to suffer from heat strokes. Your pet can too. We think of pets as outdoor animals and for the most part they can tolerate some extremes in the weather, but not all pets are bred to handle all climates. If you have a dog or a cat that has a lot of fur, you would want to keep them inside on the days where we have temperatures in the 90+ degree range and high humidity.

•Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated will help your body sweat and maintain a normal body temperature.

•a lack of sweating • nausea and vomiting •rapid breathing •racing heart rate •headaches If you suspect someone has had a heat stroke, first call 911.Then try to cool the person’s body temperature by using cold compresses or by running cool water

Remember, your pet wants to be with you but it’s your responsibility to not put them in harm’s way. If you want go running in the heat, go for it, but leave your pet at home. So what do you do if you are dealing with a pet that has suffered a heat stroke? It is not the same process for people. First, get your pet out of the sun and heat. Begin cooling the pet by laying them in a bathtub on their stomach. If you are un-

able to get them in the bathtub, place cool, wet towels on their paws but do not cover them in wet towels as this could trap the heat in. Do not use ice packs on your pet, as this contraction of the blood vessels could cause the body temperature to rise.

Let’s use a little common sense and not put our pets, our children, or ourselves in situations where we could suffer from a heat stroke or other heat-related illness.

•Take extra precautions with certain medications. Be on the lookout for heatrelated problems if you take medications that can affect your body’s ability to stay hydrated and dissipate heat.

Here are some of the warning signs that someone might be suffering from a

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Jerry’s Journal

Cell Phones and Dumb Folks by Jerry Barksdale daughter Shannon likes to text me. I never respond. Cell phones not only make me feel stupid, they are constantly buzzing, singing or speaking and destroying my peace and tranquility. Every time my phone buzzes, I jump. I think that a bumblebee is in my pants. My cell phone is one that you might purchase at a five and dime store if they were still around. Its black with a flip cover and all I have to do is say “hello” to answer. I’m still working on that. When I pull out my cell phone people giggle and point. “Dude, you carry that around?” It reminds me of when I was a kid and wearing overalls with my pant legs rolled up several turns. Kids would laugh at me. But there was logic behind my dress. I could wear the overalls the following year after I’d grown a few inches and more importantly, I could show off my new socks that Mama had bought for me. My phone does several tricks, but they are a mystery to me. One day, I was going to take a call and it took my picture. Sometimes it will ring and sometimes it won’t. I have to sit in a certain chair in my house to communicate. Sometimes I’ll be talking and later realize that I’ve been talking to myself the last five minutes. Then there is texting. I refuse to participate in such a mindless form of communication. It reminds me of passing notes in the 2nd grade. The only difference, back then we could actually spell “wrat” and “kat.” My

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I spent many dull hours in Mrs. Grady Pepper’s English class at Athens High School, eyes glazed over and thinking about the attractive blonde in the next row, while she explained nouns and verbs. If you were ever called to the blackboard by Mrs. Pepper to diagram a sentence and didn’t know a subject from a verb, you’ll never forget it. It was embarrassing. Nowadays, spelling correctly is irrelevant, not to mention the proper use of nouns and verbs. If you have a finger, you can text. Later generations (if they haven’t all died in car accidents while texting) will lose the ability to speak and write the English language. Maybe it won’t matter since Spanish will have replaced English. Then there are apps that people talk about breathlessly like it is a newborn baby. “Oh, my app tells me the weather, gives me directions and sends pictures.” Recently, my good friend (and sometimes redhead) Pat got an iPhone. Now instead of talking to me and telling me what a great hunk I am, she baby talks in single syllables to a computer generated female voice named Siri! “Ser—rie”---“call”--“Lee”---“Sha.” “Lisa?” asked Siri. “No --- it’s Lee---Sha,” replies Pat. Sometimes I think that she believes that Siri is a real person. I love Siri’s voice. It’s real smoky and sexy like a gal I once met at the bar at Hoppers. I used to wonder if Siri is a blonde or brunette. One

day while Pat was absent I picked up her iPhone and asked a simple question. “Siri, are you blonde or brunette?” “Please answer. blonde.

repeat.“ Dumb I figure she’s

It has been reported that overuse of cell phones can cause brain cancer. I don’t believe it. If true, most of my female acquaintances would be in the hospital or dead. I have other complaints. Recently, I was talking with a friend about George Washington crossing the Delaware during the American Revolution. Instead of hearing me out, he immediately punched his smart phone and said, “Yeah, it was December 25 through 26, 1776.” I wanted to say, “If that smarty phone is so darn smart, ask it the PSI pressure, color and molecular structure of flatulence produced after a 300 pound man eats a twelve ounce can of pork and beans!” Answer me that, smarty-pants phone! Why do we accept information acquired from the Internet as authoritative? Who are these faceless people who put information on the web? What are their credentials? Could they diagram a sentence in Mrs. Pepper’s English class? Christmas before last, Pat gave me an electronic traffic map device that attaches to the dash of my Toyota pick-up. I thanked her, but I didn’t understand why anyone who can read a road map and highway signs needs such a gizmo. “It has a compass and

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shows you directions,” she said. Folks, don’t ever get in a moving vehicle operated by a person who needs a compass to drive. I spoke to the device and a woman named Jean replied. We departed Acworth, Georgia bound for North Carolina, and were routed through subdivisions, back yards and alleyways. I dog cussed her. “Turn- around- at- nextintersection,” Jean instructed. “Shut up, ignoramus.” “Turn-a-round.” I like Facebook. It offers everyone – rich or poor – the means of demonstrating their ignorance to the world, and at the same time communicating important information. Recently, I saw this: “my kat is sicplese pray.” I must confess, I’m guilty too. My new rule is never get

on Facebook after cocktail hour. While my daughter Shannon was visiting from Taos, New Mexico, she accompanied me to see my cardiologist. I was wound tighter than a fivestring banjo. The thought that my heart could stop beating at any second was sobering. Just as I crossed the railroad tracks in Huntsville, a train whistle blew. “Oh my God! Train!” I stomped the accelerator and jumped the tracks. My heart was pounding like a snare drum. “Whew, that was close,” I said. Shannon burst out laughing. We had almost been hit by a freight and she was laughing. “What’s so darn funny?” I asked. “Dad, that was my cell phone.” Like I said. Cell phones make me feel stupid.

July 4 - July 17, 2014