June 1 2018

June 1st - June 14th, 2018

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

See Our Listings Inside this edition...

Pages 25 - 32

Special Feature Boost Mobile Arrives In Athens...

I met Reem Ali last week at a Chamber of Commerce grand opening and ribbon cutting event, and it was the first time I had ever been inside a pre-paid cellular phone shop...

Page 5

By Ali Elizabeth Turner Athens City Councilman Joseph Cannon told me that he was encouraged by family members, friends, and constituents to run for the job of heading up our county’s license commission.

“I enjoy public service,” he said and added, “I Continued on page 15

Special Feature School’s Out For Summer…Let The Art Begin!...

Parents can give their kids a staycation during summer break where they can explore....

Page 7

Cooking With Anna Honey Ginger Lime Fruit Salad...

Fruit salad kind of has a bad reputation. When you hear the words “fruit salad,” most of us picture...

Page 13

June 1 - June 14, 2018

Joseph Cannon For Limestone County License Commissioner

The Cannon Family

Car-Mart Of Athens: Where The Manager Is Also A Raving Fan Customer

By Ali Elizabeth Turner

Car-Mart of Athens A-team: (L-R) Gladys Moya, Jessica Branton, Crystal Hines, Kiesha Malone, MaShonda Ayers, Joe Patterson, Cleveland Green

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MaShonda Ayers, a well-educated and Continued on pages 17

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June 1 - June 14, 2018

Publisher’s Point Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Copy Editor

Trump In Tennessee

Yvonne Dempsey

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Contributing Writers Janet Hunt D. A. Slinkard Lisa Philippart Lynne Hart Anna Hamilton Rosemary Dewar Cayce Lee Joel Allen Jerry Barksdale Holly Hollman

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 6 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 7 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 8 Slinkard on Success . . . . . . 9 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Anna . . . . 13 The Millennial Mind . . . . 14 Cover Stores . . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 16 Press Release . . . . . . . . . 18 Jerry's Journal . . . . . . . . . 18 Dog Barker . . . . . . . . . 20 Mental Health Minute . . . 21 Med Point . . . . . . . . . 22

June 1 - June 14, 2018

Tuesday night, I had the experience of being seated about 500 feet away from the President of the United States, Donald J. Trump.

The occasion was the rally held in Nashville in support of Marsha Blackburn, whose candidacy for United States Senate he had come to support. To say that the evening was memorable is an understatement, and the entire rally was as diverse as it could be.

There were African-American men sporting Blacks for Trump T-shirts being hugged by white folks who thanked them for their courage, and everyone took a kazillion selfies.

There was a strange guy who was supposedly a Trump supporter wearing an odd get-up which identified him as someone who actually approved of POTUS, but the guy kept making such a scene by interrupting the president that security was called up there to get him settled down. And, there was a set of twins that looked a bit like women except that they both had moustaches, were dressed exactly alike, and claimed to be Vets for Trump. There were lots of people wearing the signature scarlet Make America Great Again hats, the usual sporters of political T-shirts, bearers of placards, and purveyors of all manner of things partisan looking ahead to the next election.

Outside, there was a truly pathetic demonstration peopled by folks who were of the same political persuasion as mine used to be in another life. I actually felt sorry for

them. There they were, standing in the pouring down rain, as we had been while waiting for hours to get in, and I had rarely heard anything so hollow sounding. I had to ask myself, “Fifty years ago, were we this lame?” We went through security, and they went home. Too bad, because if they had gone inside, they might have been surprised by what they saw and heard.

Then, there was the music.

While we were waiting, we were treated to everything from the Rolling Stones to Pavarotti, Steve Tyler and Aerosmith to the Beatles, to Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean.” However, when the Grammy-nominated Isaacs stepped up to the podium and sang the most remarkable a cappella version of the Star Spangled Banner I have ever heard, I thought the roof was going to lift off. It made me wonder, could it be that nothing could have been more American than having its anthem be sung by someone whose parents survived the Holocaust and came through Ellis Island in order to join in

making its Dream come true?

Even Trace Adkins, who performed after the Isaacs, and who has performed it himself at a number of NFL games, said that he had never heard a better version of the song.

He went on to do three songs himself, claiming that one of them had been requested by the president himself, and that he had to do it “because, well, you know, he is the President of the United States.”

So, why am I spending time talking about the way the rally felt as opposed to what was said? I guess that for the first time in a long time, I found comfort in the fact that a completely different approach to doing the job was making proven sense when it came out of the mouth of the man who clearly had command presence, and who owned the room the moment he approached the podium.

And for the record, the irony is not lost on me that this is a man for whom I had absolutely no intention of voting, and now I was a hollerin’ fool at an occasionally rowdy rally!

President Trump listed ac-

complishments achieved in his short time in office that to me were personally noteworthy: Unemployment amongst African Americans and Hispanic Americans was the lowest, and a largely white audience went wild with their approval. The longest and loudest round of applause went to the fact that we now have an embassy in Jerusalem; the project took 4 months total, and only cost us 400,000 dollars. And lastly, our military members are going to be taken care of, both on and off the field of battle.

My favorite line of the night?

“We’re not going to be a stupid country anymore.” His reference was to keeping those who would hurt us out, and helping those who want to become part of us in. I could go for that. You?

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

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All Things Soldier

Canine Sergeants Receive Well-Deserved Medals

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

Several years ago, ardent troop supporter and philanthropist Lois Pope raised awareness that there is another “type of troop” that needed to be recognized by a grateful public, and they are the K-9s that serve with our brave warriors. She teamed up with the American Humane Association to form both a competition and award for dogs who were being retired from active duty after having served in combat.

The “tales of tails saving tails” are truly legendary; one of the most famous, a WWI dog by the name of Stubby saved his entire company from a sarin gas attack. Sgt. Stubby visited the White House twice, met three US Presidents, and his remains are in the Smithsonian.

Dogs have been unofficially part of the service since the Revolutionary War, and were famous in Viet Nam for being able to hear the wind blowing against the metal trip wires that were attached to all kinds of Viet Cong bombs. They performed other duties as well, and

out of 4,000 who were deployed, fewer than 200 made it back alive to the states. It is estimated that the Dog Walkers, as they were called, and their dogs saved at least 11,000 lives. Until 1990, the dogs were often put down after having served, and soldiers did not have the opportunity to adopt them.

Last week, four dogs were given the American Hu-

mane Lois Pope K-9 Medal of Courage for demonstrating exemplary service to their country. Of the four 2018 recipients, Ms. Pope said, “These remarkable dogs have given us their best. They have put their own lives on the line to protect us, to defend us, and to save us.”

The four medal winners are: •

Jag,

a

12-year-old

Labrador retriever who served with the Army for seven years.

• Taba, a 9-year-old Dutch shepherd who served as an Army Special Forces multipurpose canine.

• Summer, a 7-year-old Labrador retriever who served in Afghanistan and is now a member of a TSA K-9 team for the Amtrak Police Department in Washington, D.C. • Taker, a 12-year-old Labrador retriever who served with the Marine Corps in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Their handlers told of their courage, and one of the most touching stories came from former USMC veteran Kevin Zuniga.

Kevin and Taker served together in Afghanistan, and when Taker came home, Kevin still had two years of service left. He

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never thought he would see Taker again, and then when Kevin got out, he did some research on what had happened to Taker. He had to jump through a lot of hoops, but was able to adopt him. Kevin went to the airport to pick him up, and after two years, Taker still recognized Kevin.

That was in 2012, and they have been inseparable ever since.

Kevin was thrilled to have his battle buddy honored with a well-deserved award. “They’re just seen as tools sometimes,” he said. “It shines some light toward the topic of military dogs and makes people think about the dogs that didn’t make it or back, or the people that didn’t make it back.” As we continue to give thanks to our two-legged service members and first responders, let’s make sure we celebrate the four-legged ones who have kept us free, too.

June 1 - June 14, 2018

Special Feature

Boost Mobile Arrives In Athens

by Ali Elizabeth Turner I met Reem Ali last week at a Chamber of Commerce grand opening and ribbon cutting event, and it was the first time I had ever been inside a pre-paid cellular phone shop. This lovely brand-new Boost Mobile by Cellular Experts outlet is located on the east side of the Athens Publix shopping center. Reem and I chatted for a while, and hearing her family’s story was both inspiring as well as fascinating.

I also enjoyed the fact that she was willing to be a part of the subsequent dunk tank “festivities” when I stopped back for their Memorial Day weekend party, and her grin told me she didn’t mind the prospect of getting wet if it would benefit the rest of her team.

Reem and her brother Sami were born in Ethiopia, and came here to the states in 1980. Their father was a businessman, and their family had to flee during the dreadful civil war which took the lives of an estimated 1.4 million Ethiopian citizens. Let’s just say that this family appreciates being in America, and all of them have worked very hard to build a life for themselves and to give back to their community. The Ali kids went to school in Huntsville; Reem graduated from Grissom High, and got a degree in Business Administration from UAH. She spent several years in the hospitality industry, including working in management for the Hyatt Corporation. Since coming to the states, Reem and Sami also returned to Africa for a period of 10 years, and one of the things that is now on Reem’s “bucket list” is to someday be involved in orphanage work. She loves kids, and you can tell she cares about the millennials who work for her. While she was back in Africa, Reem was

June 1 - June 14, 2018

is much easier. There are no credit checks, and most importantly, no long-term contracts.

There are also no monthly bills, no roaming charges, and no overage fees. You add minutes and features to your plan as you wish. With Boost, there is 4G coverage, and Boost utilizes Sprint’s cell towers. Bradley Lacey, who is our district manager and oversees all of our Alabama locations, told me that “they are working on 5G.” More on Bradley—he also has a degree in business management from UAH and worked for Sprint for 16 years. That’s involved in hospitality and catering for events sponsored by the United Nations.

If you choose to finance the purchase of your phone, they have purchase options, as well as phone replacement insurance plans. There are discounts for customers who are preferred due to their excellent payment history. If you come to Boost from another carrier, the transfer of your data is truly free, which is not the case with some pre-paid carriers.

After Sami and Reem returned to the states, Sami began to work for Sprint, and his hard work paid off in the form of a number of new opportunities.

When Sprint broke into the pre-paid market, he knew that this was an approach whose time had come, and he changed his marketing focus from postpaid to pre-paid cellular ser-

how he met Sami and Reem.

Bradley goes all the way back to the days when Sprint phones and plans were being sold in Amoco gas stations, and he has seen a lot of changes in the industry.

vice. Reem wanted to return to Huntsville to be near their family, and joined Sami as part of his company, Cellular Experts.

“My role is people management,” she told me, and Sami and she own 12 Boost stores -- 4 in Georgia, 8 in Alabama.

Briefly explained, post-paid cellular plans tend to be more expensive, and involve long-

new IPhone 6 for $99.” With that special offer, you get a single line with unlimited data for $50 a month, 3 lines for $100, and a 4-line family plan for $130 until July 16. One of the things I appreciate about Boost is their support for our military service members who are currently deployed and are going overseas. You can call Boost and put your account in a state of suspension, which keeps your account as well as your phone number active. In addition, if you have an Android or IOS, you will be able to connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi. Then, when you come back home, you call their deployed military service line, and they will fire everything back up at no charge.

term contracts and credit checks. There are substantial penalties for leaving the plan early, and they are often filled with extra taxes and hidden fees. So, that “bargain” that is advertised many times is anything but.

By comparison, with a pre-paid plan, you know ahead of time what the full cost of your bill is going to be, so budgeting

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Bradley and Reem told me their focus these days is on “re-branding” pre-paid cellular service. Gone are the days of the images of “burner phones” being used by thugs. Reem said, “We are finding that grass-roots wordof-mouth advertising through satisfied customers is really helping.” Boost offers a plethora of plans and phones which will fit any budget. Bradley said, “There are seven types of free phones you can get, even flip phones if you prefer them, and right now you can get a

“So, Bradley and Reem,” I said, “I have choices when it comes to phone service, and everyone wants my money.

Why should I come to you?”

“Three reasons,” they said.

“Value, unlimited data, and exceptional customer service.” Come to Boost Mobile located at 22099 Hwy 72, Ste B, Athens, AL 35613, or call 256-444-4404, and see if they can’t truly give your cell phone plan a boost!

BOOST Mobile

Address: 22099 Hwy 72, Ste B, Athens, AL 35613 Phone: 256-444-4404 Hours: Mon-Sat 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Sun 12-6 p.m. www.cellularexperts.org

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Calendar of Events Elk River Boat Party Jun 30

The annual Elk River Boat Party, hosted by Bridgett and Mike Jackson, will be held on Saturday, June 30, 2018, starting at 3:00 p.m. and will go until dark. Kozmic Mama is the band playing for this event. Free koozies will be handed out. Kids can go water skiing, ski boarding, and the AL Marine Police will be on duty. Directions: Go north on the Elk River and under Lee Hi Bridge (U.S. 72 bridge).

Turn left into Anderson Creek. Visit the facebook page 12th Annual Elk River Boat Party for more info.

Athens-Limestone Public Library Book Clubs

Enjoy reading? Like discussing books with others? The AthensLimestone Public Library offers two book clubs each month.

Join in with the Third Thursday Book Club every third Thursday of the month at 9:00 a.m. for coffee, baked treats, and good conversation. Various genres are read. You’re also invited to join the Mystery Book Club every 4th Thursday at 6:00 p.m. for tasty treats and an even tastier mystery! Books are available from the library. For more info, check at the Circulation Desk or call 256232-1233.

We're Looking For a Few Good Yards for the Month of June!

If you know of a gardener whose yard is exceptional (no professionally maintained yards, please) and would like to have them recognized, the Limestone County Master Gardeners would like to know, check out the website link http://mg.aces.edu/ limestone/were-looking-for-a-few-good-yards/ and/or provide the information and a picture to tlt_brown@charter.net.

vest and gloves. A recycling trailer from Athens-Limestone Recycling Center will be at Jones Drugs. To volunteer: 256423-7378.

Project Sweet Pea Jamboree Jun 9

Ardmore Town Park, 29910 Park Avenue in Ardmore, AL. 4:00PM-8:00PM with games, inflatables, and vendors.

Benefiting Neonatal Intensive Care Units in Huntsville and Birmingham. For more information: ProjectSweetPeas.com

Bike MS: Rocket City 2018 Jun 9

8:00AM-5:00PM. Starting at James Clemens High School, 11306 County Line Road in Madison. On the backroads surrounding Madison, Mooresville, and Greenbrier. Information and Registration: NationalMSSociety.org

Music For A Mission: Boogie Shoe Bash Jun 9

With Music for Mission benefitting Learn-To-Read Limestone County. At Revival, 305 West Washington Street in Athens.

6:00PM-8:00PM with a free concert featuring Trippin' Dixie.

Food available by Sweet Thymes. Donation accepted.

Free Veterans' Breakfast Jun 9

American Veterans Post 21. 22769 Black Road in Athens. A pancake or egg breakfast with the trimmings from 7:00AM10:00AM. Non-Veterans $6.00. All are welcome. For more information: 256-444-2793 or www.AmVetsAL21.com

Athens Saturday Market Jun 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

A state-certified farmers' market. Enjoy fresh produce, baked goods, music, art, and crafts at the Green Street pavilion, 409 West Green Street in Athens. 8:00AM to 12:00PM.

Alabama Free Fishing Day Jun 9

A statewide event that allows residents and visitors to enjoy the outstanding fishing opportunities of Alabama's waters. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com

Kids Fishing Rodeo Jun 2

Summer Concert Series: Tom McClung and Friends Live Jun 15

For ages 5-15 with Limestone County Sportsman's Club at Club Lake (just north of the intersection at Oakdale and Pepper Roads in Athens) from 9:00AM-12:00PM. Free, bring own bait and tackle. Children must be accompanied by adult. Prizes by age group. Information: Ron or Carol Mulack 256-233-3634.

With Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association on the steps of the Limestone County Courthouse Marion Street side from 6PM-8PM, free to the public - bring camp or lawn chair.

2nd Annual Ardmore Spring Clean Saturday Jun 2

10th Annual Ardmore Truck & Tractor Pull Jun 15 & 16

United Pest and Turf Control is seeking volunteers to help pick up litter within the city limits. Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful will provide volunteers with trash bags, litter grabbers, safety Page 6

With the Ardmore Lions Club. John Barnes Park, 26425 Hamlett Street in Ardmore, TN. Starting at 7:00PM. For more information: Mike Magnusson 256-468-4950.

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June 1 - June 14, 2018

Special Feature

School’s Out For Summer…

Let The Art Begin!

by Holly Hollman Summer Art Camps Parents can give their kids a staycation during summer break where they can explore painting, creating a mosaic and learning about photography.

Artists at High Cotton Arts in Downtown Athens are offering their Summer Art Camp from June 4-8 from 9 a.m. to noon daily. The cost is $125 per child for the weeklong art program.

The camp is for those ages 7-12. Parents or guardians need to preregister and pay $60 down. The remaining $65 is due the first day of camp.

Here is the list of classes: • Monday and Tuesday – Tina Swindell and Lynn Weatherford, acrylic painting • Wednesday – Denise Maurer, mosaic stepping-stone • Thursday – Sonya Gordon, watercolors with children making two under-the-sea themed paintings • Friday – Tanjie Schrimsher, photography session called “See the Light” “The Summer Art Camp gives children the opportunity to explore a variety of art mediums and expand their creativity,” said Athens Arts League Board Vice President Diane Lehr.

To

pre-register,

call

June 1 - June 14, 2018

Never Mind the Damage

256-232-7717 or email Gordon at sonyasdesk@gmail.com.

• July 13 tentatively with Elvis and the Three Divas

Athens Arts League, a non-profit entity that operates High Cotton Arts, also is planning a container garden art camp for later this summer where students can paint and decorate recycled containers, plants flowers and herbs, and display them in the outdoor classroom called Cotton Alley, located behind High Cotton Arts.

• Aug. 10 with Jimmy Rowell and Friends • Sept. 14 with John David Crowe and activities related to September being Childhood Cancer Awareness Month Fridays After Five The artists at High Cotton Arts are participating in Athens Main Street’s Fridays After Five as well. The artists will keep High Cotton Arts open until 9 p.m. on June 15, July 20, Aug. 17 and Sept. 21.

The public can shop for locally made art, sign up for art classes and enjoy free snacks.

“We are working to fine tune the details for this class and will have more information soon,” said Athens Arts League board member Holly Hollman.

Art After Hours Adults as well as children can also spend summer evenings at High Cotton Arts on the second Friday of each month through September for Art After Hours.

This is a free event with live music, snacks, and an art activity for children. The events are 5-8 p.m.

“Art After Hours encourages people to shop for locally made art and enjoy spending an evening in Downtown Athens where the focus is on visual and musical arts,” said Athens Arts

League Board President Jennifer Hilton Sampieri.

The upcoming Art After Hours events are: • June 8 with Garth Lovvorn Jr.’s band Temple of Blood and

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

Don’t Forget To Go Camping

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

It had been a week of milestones, mostly in the form of graduation ceremonies and that bittersweet feeling of watching kids take flight, as well as knowing that you need to let them fly on their own terms. It had also been Memorial Day weekend, and the Veterans Museum had sponsored a well-attended ceremony where BG Robert Rasch, Jr. spoke. Various churches devoted part of their Sunday services to help us to “always remember to never forget” those who have given all for our freedoms, as well as our members of law enforcement and first responders.

Pastor Dusty McLemore preached on “The Heart of a Servant,” and John David Crowe used the analogy of what happens when we go camping, and the importance of “Camping with God.”

spiritually and emotionally through having too many options. Indeed, I remember when my daughter was in braces, one the most stressful parts of her experience was trying to figure out at her appointment which color of connectors she was going to pick for the month, as opposed to the one-choice metal-only braces that had for generations served to precipitate the nickname, “tin grin.” It was an abundance that tried to act like a thief of her joy and selfworth, one we must fight diligently as uber-blessed Americans.

Mayor Ronnie told about how some of his best times, both in family relationships as well as his spiritual life, were when he was working on the

Hurricane Katrina task force, and he had to drive for long distances. There was nothing but time— time to pray, think, create, connect, dream, and in today’s vernacular, “to chill.” He asked me, “Do you think that one of the reasons some people choose to commute for an hour each way each day to work is so they can have quiet time?” I nodded in agreement. The long commutes can act like a camping trip, if you turn everything off for a while.

We tossed around ideas about what could be done with the L&S eyesore, how important it is to have a vision, even when no one else does. “Without a vision, the people perish” can be applied in so many areas of our per-

sonal lives as well as our lives as Athenians.

There is much to celebrate as far as the demolition of the old Pilgrim’s Pride plant goes. The crew has been working from the back to the front, so for a few weeks no one driving by could have told that they were even there, other than the sound of heavy equipment moving, crushing, sorting, and piling. Now you can see from the road how much progress they have made, and it won’t be long until the next phase of the plant-to-park process begins. Having a vision for making a well-planned greenspace which could become the jewel of our city is finally coming to pass, and I think we can safely say that we can all

heave a sigh of relief.

We spoke of friends who are battling cancer and the irony of how God uses looming death to help us get our lives in order—so difficult in this realm, and so necessary before entering our permanent state.

We circled back again to “camping,” where the Mayor said, “Plan today for tomorrow’s campout,” and then we prayed. I for one am thankful that I live in a town where it is totally acceptable to pray with and for public officials, and it’s what we always do before Ronnie rolls.

Here’s a thought: Athens in so many ways is already totally cool. What would happen if we all made it a point to go camping, and we all prayed?

When we go camping, what happens? We get away from all the demands of our surroundings, and get out into an area where we have no responsibility other than to leave the campground in better shape than we found it. It is there in that stripped-down state with no cell phone, internet, Skype, Zoom, Voxer, Snapchat, Instagram, and the High Occupancy Vehicle lane on the Interstate that we can start to get still enough and quiet down so we can hear the voice of God. John David Crowe talked about how abundance can actually impoverish us

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June 1 - June 14, 2018

Slinkard On Success

Success Comes Before Work Only In The Dictionary

by D. A. Slinkard D.A. Slinkard is the manager of the Athens Staples store We have a lot of entitled people living in our societies. Sometimes entitled people live in the same house as we do; sometimes those people are known as spouses. I can confidently say that my wife, Mindy, is far from an entitled individual; but I would like to point out that we have a bunch of people amongst us who think they are entitled to anything and everything they want in life. No rhyme or reason to why they should be entitled other than the subtle answer of “just because.”

This article is dedicated to all of the parents out there.

We just had Mother’s Day not too long ago and Father’s Day is right around the corner; so, maybe this message will be appropriately found. First things first, if you are a male and you have produced an offspring, you have a responsibility. There should be no questions asked. If you have created life in this world, you should “manup” and take responsibility for your behavior. The Bible tells us the man is to be the leader of the home; the man is to set the example for how the household should work. This creates a sense of order of how things are supposed to be.

Our society does not have that sense of order, and a failure of order becomes chaos.

so much in the way we do things, the way we interact, the way we communicate.

We have lost our moral compass when it comes to the family. We have many families in which the family dynamic is all out of whack, and this creates a sort of confusion that can cause a generation to crumble.

For us to continue to live in the greatest country known to man, we must make some changes to the way we live our lives. I recently was speaking to an individual about why they left their previous employer, and the one thing I kept hearing was a sense of entitlement.

This person felt betrayed because they had been with their company longer than anyone else, and someone who had only been with

the company for 16 months was promoted before this individual was. It was at this time that I realized the mentality of the individual I was speaking with is the exact same mentality that is becoming the norm of society.

What will life be like when we ultimately live in a society comprised entirely of those people with the mindset of entitlement?

What will the greatest nation known to man look like then? What will it take to keep our society from crumbling beneath itself?

We must change our mentality and the way we approach our daily lives if we are to continue to thrive as a nation. What has become our greatest asset, technology, has also become our

greatest demise. My daughters will never know what it is like to have to listen to the radio to figure out what the lyrics are to that song stuck in their head. Nope, all they have to do is say, “Hey Alexa, what’s the name of that song with the words...,” and the answer magically appears.

Let’s go ahead and look at the way our society functions in the proper perspective. We live in a world that teaches us that we should treat everyone equally; we should give out participation trophies for just showing up; we do not want to offend anyone; we want to lie to people because we might hurt their feelings; and people should be entitled to get what they want because we are the United

States of America.

We must drop the word of entitlement from our vocabulary and focus in on working our tails off to provide a better future for ourselves. The only place “Success” comes before “Work” is in the dictionary, and we must get back to the values of who we once were as a society. Our advancements in technology are further creating a generation who wants their cake and their ice cream and they want it right now. There is no longer a mentality of waiting to achieve your success.

If we cannot get what we want right now, we simply move on; and this mentality will cause our society to crumble if not properly dealt with.

It saddens me how this societal chaos has forced many people to grow up in this world without a daddy, without a mommy, and sometimes without both.

Our society has changed

June 1 - June 14, 2018

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Tourism

June Rolls Out The Welcome Mat For Large Groups And Big Events In Athens-Limestone AL

by Cayce Lee Social Media Specialist, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association Various groups, attractions, and events throughout Limestone County will be hosting amazing numbers of guest during the month of June. From sightseeing, to paddling, to peddling, and beyond – visitors from near and far will be trekking with a purpose to our communities.

The first Friday of June sees the return of school children and their chaperones to explore the educational offerings of Athens State University and Robotics Technology Park, as well as our history and heritage. This group is part of Edu Outing Concepts of Mumbai India, which is making its fourth trip to the community to continue exploring the growing educational offerings of both schools.

The week of June 11-16 will have the All-American Smart Cars rolling into Athens. This unique car group will have a procession on June 13 from the Best Western on U.S. Highway 72 in Athens to Bolyn Street, then Freeman Street, turning north on U.S. Highway 31 before taking Forrest Street, then Hoffman Street, then Washington Street into downtown Athens Square. The community is invited to come out and watch the procession starting at 8:30 a.m., as well as come look at the cars around the Square until 1:00 p.m.

June 2 is going to be packed with all kinds of events including the kickoff of the Athens Saturday Market under the

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Clemens High School and peddles through Mooresville, Madison, and Greenbrier. Those who aren’t the cycling types will be hitting the Limestone County Elk River Canoe and Kayak Trail for Kayak MS. They’ll be kicking up their heels at Revival for the Music for Mission: Boogie Shoe Bash featuring the sounds of Trippin’ Dixie. Families won’t want to miss the fun as the Sweet Pea Jamboree returns to the Ardmore Town Park raising money to support area Mayor Marks and local students pavilion on Green Street in Athens; the Color Run for Dyslexia at the Athens Recreation Center on Alabama 251; a Benefit Motorcycle Ride with the Widow’s Sons starting at the Ardmore Mason Lodge; plus vendors and shopping at the Main Street Market Days at the Shoppes of Ardmore Avenue; the Kids Fishing Rodeo, free for ages 5-15, with Limestone County

happening in Mooresville featuring reenactments of the Civil War and loads of demonstrations.

Families with small children will want to make memories as the Athens Lions Club kicks off their season of fun at the Athens Kiddie Carnival June 28, 29, and 30. No little ones, no problem! Pack your appetite and enjoy the Elkmont Lions Club Smokin’ Railroad Street BBQ Cookoff Backyard Division for a little Kansas City Barbecue Soci-

Sportsman’s Club at their pond on Kennedy Rd.; as well as the 2nd Annual Ardmore Spring Clean starting downtown at Jones Pharmacy, sprucing up Ardmore with the helping hands of the community.

Our community will be full of active, funloving people on June 9, as Bike MS: Rocket City returns to James

Tanner Truck and Tractor Pull NICUs.

Kiddie Carnival bringing a smile

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Make room on your calendar for June 15 and 16 – you are not going to want to miss these events! Singing on the Square will rock the steps of the Limestone County Courthouse with Tomcat and Bark the Dawg.

Things will rev up for two days of fun and excitement as the 10th Annual Ardmore Truck and Tractor Pull comes to John Barnes Park. Don’t forget your reservations for Camped on a Stream, a bicentennial event

ety-sanctioned fun. Hit the water and pack your patriotic spirit for a little preIndependence Day celebrating as the 12th Annual Elk River Boat Party on June 30 rocks the river at Anderson Creek.

These are the just the highlights to fill your calendar in June. You get all the details and even more events, including farmers markets, live music, and more, by visiting our website at VisitAthensAL.com

June 1 - June 14, 2018

June 1 - June 14, 2018

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Clean and Green

Is That Plant From Around Here?

by Lynne Hart Executive Coordinator - Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful

Whenever I visit one of the local nurseries, I am always overwhelmed by the variety of flowers, shrubs, and trees available to us. I am not a great gardener because my time for that task is limited, so I am always interested in plants that will grow easily with little intervention from me!

I have learned not to select plants simply based on the beauty of their blooms!

There is so much more to consider.

Beautiful exotic plants may draw me to them; however, they probably won’t be low maintenance or contribute to the health of the environment here in the Tennessee Valley. A question asked of me so often once I begin to speak is, “You aren’t from around here, are you?” This is a question we should also ask about the plants we are considering for our gardens.

A Native Plant is one that was not introduced into the area, but grows naturally in a particular region, state, ecosystem, or habitat and is well adapted to the climate and soil in the area. Native plants grow in community with other plant species providing habitat for wildlife, and have worked together to provide a positive impact on the local ecosystem.

Plants that have thrived right here are the ones that native birds and wildlife have come to depend on for food and shelter.

These plants and animals

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have “grown up” together and depend on each other.

When they are removed on a large scale, as often happens when land is cleared for construction, and replaced with “pretty” plants and shrubs that are not native, there is a disruption in the web of life. Wildlife that depend on these plants must then move to other areas or just don’t survive.

and shrubs native to your location. Local nurseries would be happy to help you. You may also contact your local Extension Office for help with selecting plants that will thrive in your garden conditions.

When choosing plants that work well together and are suited to this area, nature will be more in balance making your garden a welcoming habitat for local wildlife.

Native plants and shrubs will provide seeds, nectar, and insects that will welcome native birds, butterflies, and other wildlife back into your

A Non-Native Plant is one that is introduced to an area in which it did not naturally evolve. Some of these plants may not have natural predators in the new location allowing

them to grow unchecked.

When this happens, they are considered invasive plant species.

Some examples of invasive plants in the Tennessee Valley are Kudzu, Chinese Privet, and Callery Pear. All are native to China and surrounding countries and were

brought to the United States for a specific purpose. Often non-native plants are brought into a new location that does not offer the environmental checks and balances, such as seasonal weather, diseases, or insect pests that kept them under control in their native areas. When these plants “escape” and

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become established outside the controlled areas in which they were planted, they can grow unchecked and choke out native plants.

yard.

You might event consider adding a “Welcome” sign to your garden!

Select Wisely When selecting plants for your landscape, be sure to look for plants, trees,

Become a Fan

(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com June 1 - June 14, 2018

Cooking with Anna

Honey Ginger Lime Fruit Salad

by Anna Hamilton

Fruit salad kind of has a bad reputation. When you hear the words “fruit salad,” most of us picture canned fruit cocktail swimming in some sort of sugary sweet liquid surrounded by tiny marshmallow friends. I believe only in the South can you call something a salad that has that much sugar.

Well, I’m ready for fruit salad to get a fresh start. I want us to be able to enjoy fruit again, in a delicious mix that is not drowned in sugar. This recipe is fresh, refreshing, and delicious.

It will be the perfect dish for any summertime party.

So, take some time, sit on your front porch, enjoy the summer, and eat a bowl of this delish fruit salad.

Honey Ginger Lime Fruit Salad

What You Need:

1 whole fresh pineapple, diced 1 whole fresh cantaloupe, diced 1 lb. fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced 4-5 fresh nectarines, sliced ½ pint fresh blackberries ½ pint fresh blueberries 6 whole fresh kiwi, diced ½ cup honey 1 large lime, juice and zest 1-2 Tbsp. finely grated fresh ginger June 1 - June 14, 2018

Directions: Mix all fruit together in a large bowl.

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice and zest, and ginger.

Pour dressing over fruit and toss gently to coat.

This salad is best served immediately. If you make it the day before, keep your fruit separate until ready to serve so the colors of the fruit don’t bleed together.

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The Millennial Mind

Modern Feminism Splits The Proverbial Baby

by Rosemary Dewar The modern depiction of a woman has been altered almost to the point of irrelevancy. Characteristics that made women unique from men are perceived as weaknesses instead of strengths. Culture cannot seem to decide between adapting to women’s individual needs or changing the definition of women altogether. Although history has shown the exploitation of women, there are examples in history where women were actually esteemed. Should this misconception continue to be used in order to misinform women, it will continue to negatively affect our culture.

Women have a fundamental role in being sources of creativity and new life, which should never be taken lightly

or for granted. Should an actuated belief do harm to the development and advancement of women, it ought to be abandoned.

Take the story of King Solomon when he was forced to judge between two women. Simply look at the symbolism and how it applies to our current culture.

King Solomon is a representation of all wisdom that is reinforced by tradition and order. There are two mothers that represent those that are tasked with nurturing by raising an infant (a continuation of culture). One mother accidentally kills her infant by rolling over it as she slept. Knowing she killed her baby, she switches her dead child with another woman’s infant. Solomon is presented with the responsibility

to restore the live infant back to its mother. So, Solomon gives a test. He threatens to split the child with his sword (with no actual intention to do so).

The woman that has ultimately failed as a mother (nurturer of culture) agrees to the arrangement to cover her theft. The other mother begs to preserve that life even if she is no longer privileged to nurture the baby herself.

With that exclamation, the innocent mother regains her child by manifesting her womanly and motherly disposition. As for the guilty woman, every action she took to hide her guilt was an expression of her failure as a mother and a decent person. When any action, no matter how vague at the time, results in undeniable loss and destruction

of someone else’s life, it ought to be rejected before it causes further damage.

Our culture is as fragile as an infant. Very few fundamentally true practices keep it alive. Modern feminism seems to be as intent as Marxism was to dismantle it. There is not a more effective way to tear it down other than manipulating the definition of womanhood and motherhood. Modern feminist influencers cannot make up their mind whether to ask for specialized treatment that caters to women or to ask to be treated no differently than their male counterparts in the work place. Accomplishing both is not possible.

Even when a company bends to accommodate women and mothers, there is the high possibil-

ity that some practices are not sustainable long term. It may have nothing to do with sexism, and simply be a burden to others in the company. It is asserted that the overwhelming majority of mothers would rather work from home if they could. Sometimes companies are just not capable of meeting that need.

That does not make them “bad” companies.

Within Jewish history, women hold authority of their own. They are community leaders and judges. Women are educated, hold individual wealth, and buy and sell land.

In marriage, women are aware of the value of their dowry, and have the authority to turn down an engagement. They are to teach the Torah to their children before they go to Hebrew school. Women are even considered closer to God because woman was made after man. God also expresses his displeasure when men neglect their wives, for example in the book of Malachi.

Of course, there are bigoted men. Of course, there are civilizations that don’t esteem their women. That is systematically not prevalent in America’s current culture. Women have a vital role in society, yet every time modern feminism diminishes the importance of femininity or motherhood, they “split the baby” over and over again. It is to the detriment of women and harm of society as a whole.

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June 1 - June 14, 2018

Cover Story

Joseph Cannon For Limestone County License Commissioner

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

represent a generation that needs to step up, and I have and will continue to lead by example.” Joseph went on to tell me that working full time in the private sector along with his duties on the city council have been a welcomed sacrifice for him and his family. While the license commission position has more predictable hours and is not open on weekends, he still expects to bring that same dedication to the position, even noting that he will be “the first one there, and the last one to leave each day.”

One of the things that has made Joseph’s job as city councilman both a joy and a challenge is that wherever he goes, whether it’s to cities in Alabama or other states, or even on vacation, his “head is on a swivel,” continually observing how everything is done in other cities – from sidewalks to roads to lighting to signage. He is always wanting to “see how they do it” and then strategize as to how Athens might do it even better.

If elected, that same commitment is something Joseph will bring to the office every day. We talked for a while about a recurring theme in our area: “How do we grow well, prepare for the future, and not lose our ‘Athens-ness’?”

As a systems guy who really enjoys technology and how it can make life better, one of the things he would like to see is an app that could be accessed by one’s smartphone and would give an indication of how long the wait is in line at the license office.

“We have to be in a constant search for how to negate the bottleneck,” he said. Because the office is particularly vulnerable to the effects of fast

June 1 - June 14, 2018

population growth in the area, staying ahead of the need is of paramount importance.

If the app were to be developed, it would not only indicate how long the wait time is, but have a tab of frequently asked questions, be able to send alerts, and more. It would link to a kiosk, which would handle some of the more automated services offered by the license office. “The kiosk would be the ‘brain’ of the app,” he said. It is most important that any program upgrades be cost effective, not to mention work well. At this point, however, Joseph is not completely convinced that opening up license commission satellite offices would meet that criteria. But, he’s open to being sold on the idea, and says that one day it may just be what’s needed.

He painted a number of possible challenging scenarios with a satellite approach, such as staffing when people are sick and not short-staffing at the main office, determining whether or not satellite office hours be the same as the central office, and handling long lines at the satellite offices. “This is a department in our county that can be an example of how a public service department can run well,” Jo-

seph said. Because its scope is customer service, Joseph said that if elected he wants to make sure that he continues to build upon an excellent foundation which results in running the office excellently, and balances efficiency with the “human touch.”

I asked Joseph how he would handle working as the only guy in an all-female office surrounded by women who have been “at it,” that is, “running” the license office for years. He laughed as he reminded me that he was in management for many years at Osborne’s Jeweler’s, and he was responsible for an all-female staff there, too.

“We became like family, and

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it was no problem,” he said.

He also made it clear that he wants to be able to step into any slot in the office at any point in order to do any job needed, and do it well. “My plan is to be working right there with them whenever they need me,” Joseph said.

I also asked Joseph why he should be the one to get my vote, and here’s what he said: “First of all, I have worked hard to get a good education.

I put myself through college at Athens State.” Joseph has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, and has worked for several years as a procurement, materials and logistics analyst.

“My time in management at Osborne’s, as an analyst in the private sector, and city councilman has prepared me for the job,” he added. Joseph simply wants to hand this county off to future leaders better than how he found it.

Last of all, “Work ethic,” he said. “Just like with my job, my family, and city council, I will put everything into it, from sunup to sundown,” he concluded. If these qualities are what you are looking for in a license commissioner, then Joseph Cannon would appreciate your vote on June 5.

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Health and Fitness

What is Coronary Artery Disease?

by Janet Hunt

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

Coronary artery disease happens when fatty plaques build up in the coronary arteries. This fatty plaque buildup is called atherosclerosis. When the fatty build-up narrows or blocks the blood flow in the artery, the heart cannot receive oxygen. Lack of oxygen to the heart causes damage or death to that area of the heart resulting in a weak heart which then increases your risk for having a heart attack.

kidney disease, and more.

Lower sodium intake and exercise can help control your blood pressure.

• High cholesterol: Cholesterol comes from your body and from your diet.

Too much cholesterol in your blood makes up the fatty plaques that causes heart disease. Decreasing the amount of saturated and trans fats you eat and exercising can help control cholesterol.

Making lifestyle changes to reduce your risk factors can reduce the likelihood of having heard disease.

These lifestyle changes include: increasing physical activity, eating heart healthy, managing stress, exercising, and quitting smoking.

Risk factors for heart disease include those that cannot be controlled and those that can. The risk factors that cannot be controlled are: family history, aging, and male.

Risk factors than can be controlled are: • Sedentary lifestyle: A sedentary lifestyle means you tend to spend most of your time seated and get very little physical activity.

• Poor diet: Too much saturated and trans fats, sodium, red meat, and sugar can increase your weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.

• Overweight/obesity: A BMI higher than 25 is considered overweight; and a BMI higher than 30

is considered obese. Excess weight causes more stress on the heart and raises blood pressure and cholesterol.

• Stress: The exact link between long-term stress and heart disease in unknown, but it can have damaging results.

•

Smoking:

Smoking

worsens the other risk factors by decreasing good cholesterol, raising blood pressure, and making it more difficult to exercise.

For more information about lifestyle changes, contact Janet Hunt at 256614-3530, an ACE certified Health Coach and ACE certified personal trainer.

• Lack of exercise: Aerobic exercise makes your heart stronger.

• Diabetes: Because diabetes increases your risk of heart disease, you need to keep diabetes under control with diet, exercise, weight control, and medication.

• High blood pressure: Uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage your blood vessels increasing the risk of heart disease and heart attack, stroke,

Page 16

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June 1 - June 14, 2018

Cover Story

Car-Mart Of Athens: Where The Manager Is Also A Raving Fan Customer

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

hard-working Athens woman found herself in the position of being a single mother, and she needed a car. She went to Car-Mart of Athens as a customer, and became one of their best word-ofmouth salespeople because of the way they treated her, the quality of the car, and the “above-and-beyond/extramile” service she was given.

Her educational background includes a degree in nursing, business administration, as well as one in computer networking; in fact, she was part of the team that developed the Razor Phone for Assurion. She also had the satisfying experience of working from home for HP, where she built an award-winning team.

MaShonda was offered an impressive position with AT&T, but when the general manager and one of the vice presidents of Car-Mart told her she’d be a great asset to their com-

pany, she was intrigued. She knew what it was like to be in need of a good car, and her heart wanted to pay it forward to others.

MaShonda and her family have Athens roots and she used to spend her summers here as a kid. They moved here from Indianapolis in 1991, and she graduated from Athens High School. She married, had two kids, went to college, got three degrees and more than one great career, and then everything went in the opposite direction. “Those were tough times, and God got me through,” she said.

Although MaShonda has never been in the “buy-herepay-here” car business, she is thrilled with her job, which she started on April 15, 2015. She has had a blast opening up the new location, which is in the building that for many years housed our local Sears store

on Hwy 72. “I had a long talk with my family, and a long talk with God,” she said, and felt like one day the Lord just said to her, “Take it, you’ll be OK.” One of the things she likes about the Car-Mart corporate family is that they pray before meetings as well as meals, and she is free to let her light shine.

There had been a problem at the previous store in Athens, due to some poor quality cars having been sold, and MaShonda has had to do some damage control.

But, doing the right thing the right way for the right people at the right time has paid off, and business is now booming.

“I am pleased to be part of the change,” she said.

That market niche has proven to be quite profitable here in North Alabama, and in 2018, Forbes Magazine chose CarMart as the best employer to work for in the used car industry. MaShonda told me about a number of services they provide, including a payment-protection plan; an extended service contract which includes the engine, drive train, and transmission; and more. Because she knows what it is like to be a single woman who needs guidance when it comes to the purchase and maintenance of an automobile, MaShonda has a special heart for women who come to her store. She tells them, “Take care of the product, and the product will take care of you.”

By way of history, Car-Mart started in Arkansas in 1981 and has grown to more than 150 locations nationwide.

They have an interest rate of 16%, the lowest in the business. Below is a description of their mission, their vision, and their values:

When I heard MaShonda introduce herself at a recent Chamber of Commerce Coffee, what impressed me was that the first thing she talked about was not cars, but being involved in the community; and after talking and laughing with her, I believe her.

Our Mission

Car-Mart is open six days a week, and is closed on Sundays. Car-Mart of Athens is going to have its grand opening on Friday, June 8, at the new location at 823 Hwy 72 West in Athens, from 10 a.m.

-6 p.m. There will be a cookout, door prizes, a prize wheel, and lots of family-friendly fun. At 5:30 p.m., there will be an important drawing; so mark your calendars for a special day. See you then!

We strive to earn the repeat business of our customers by providing quality vehicles, affordable payment terms, and excellent service.

Our Vision To be the most respected BuyHere-Pay-Here organization in the country.

Our Values Integrity, Respect, Compassion and Excellence

Car-Mart of Athens 823 US Hwy 72 W Athens, AL 35611 Hours: 9-6, Mon-Sat Phone: 256-230-1171

June 1 - June 14, 2018

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Page 17

Press Release

City Team obtains $2,500 donation for Relay for Life

by Holly Hollman The City of Athens Relay for Life Team received a donation of $2,500 today (May 25, 2018) from Modern Woodmen of America as a matching grant for the team's Relay for LIfe Bass Fishing Tournament fundraiser. Modern Woodmen financial representative Andrew Kirk made the check presentation to Athens Relay team members, from left, Stephanie Marlowe, Holly Hollman, and Mayor Ronnie Marks.

The city team raised over $25,000 this campaign year for the American

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Cancer Society. The team also held a blood drive, collected cola tabs for the Ronald McDonald House that supports St. Jude's, and supported Superhero Day for Childhood Cancer Awareness.

"The team has many reasons to remain committed to the fight against cancer because of all the people we know who are impacted by it," said Hollman. "The support we receive from the community and organizations like Modern Woodmen also encourage us to remain committed."

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June 1 - June 14, 2018

Jerry’s Journal

Pork‘n’Beans Saved Me From Skinwalkers

by Jerry R. Barksdale www.jerrybarksdale.com

The summer of 1989 I read Skinwalkers by New Mexico author, Tony Hillerman. In Navajo culture, a skinwalker is a harmful witch that can turn into, possess, or disguise themselves as a coyote or dog. I wanted to meet a skinwalker. It was on my bucket list. I was 47 years old and recently married to “Arkansas Pat” (not to be confused with my good friend and sometimes redhead, “Tanner Pat”). This was long before Arkansas Pat would declare me persona non grata (that’s Latin – and sock me with alimony).

by nightfall. I marched up to the front desk and gave my name. “Yes sir, Mr. Barksdale we have your car reserved. May I see your driver’s license and credit card?”

I engaged Largo (not real name), a Navajo guide in Chinle, Arizona, to take us down into Canyon de Chelly (pronounced da shay) by horseback. I reserved a rental car for later, and we flew to Albuquerque. It was a pleasant flight with wine to soothe the nerves and lift the spirits.

“I’ll take my business elsewhere,” I said and stormed out. I received the same treatment at other rental agencies. An hour later, I was at Rent-a-Wreck begging. “Please mister, my wife will think I’ve abandoned her.” After calling his home office and conducting a credit check, I was finally given a car.

Pat waited outside the terminal perched atop our two duffel bags of camping gear, smoking Virginia Slims, while I headed off to pick up our rental car. “I’ll be back in two shakes of a gnat’s tail,” I said, confident we’d be in Chinle

June 1 - June 14, 2018

“I don’t have a credit card – don’t need one,” I said proudly and produced a small wad of cash.

“Sir, we can’t rent you a car without a credit card.”

“What’de ya mean?” I whipped out a twenty. “See here, it says ‘legal tender for all debts.’ Have you ever seen that written on plastic?”

“Sorry, sir,” she said.

Pat was still sitting on our duffle bags, pumping her foot, twisting long tendrils of her black hair, and hotboxing a Virginia Slim. A pile of cigarette butts lay at her feet. She was nerved up.

That night we stayed at the

fb.com/jerry.barksdale.7 El Rancho Hotel on Route 66 in Gallup. It’s where John Wayne and the Hollywood crowd use to stay while filming westerns in the area. The next morning, we headed across the Navajo Reservation to Chinle, Arizona. Largo and his younger brother, Juan, met us with horses, and we packed down into Canyon de Chelly, a 38,000-squaremile hole in the ground.

Finally, the hunt for skinwalkers was on.

We rode past ancient Anasazi ruins and cliff dwellings and saw what appeared to be bear tracks in the dust.

The horses were skittish.

Could they be skinwalker tracks? I wondered. Juan never spoke a word unless spoken to.

That evening when the sun dropped behind the canyon wall, the horses were hobbled and a fire was stoked.

Largo’s wife drove up in a pick-up and started supper.

She squatted near the fire and boiled lard in a black kettle, then dropped flat patty cakes of white dough into the sizzling grease.

Ahh, yes fry bread—the Navajo version of cornbread.

Inside the fold of bread, she stuffed fried mutton, onion, etc., called Navajo tacos.

Bad for the heart, but pleas-

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ing to the pallet.

“Ever see any skinwalkers?”

I casually asked Largo.

“Last week on canyon ledge,” he said, and pointed above us. The hair on my neck stiffened. Later, I left Pat and Juan sitting in front of our tent, her sipping red wine and burning Virginia Slims, while I burrowed deep inside my sleeping bag.

The next morning I crawled out and saw Juan flat on his back and sound asleep, right where he sat when I went to bed. He obviously passed out and fell backward.

“How much did he drink? I asked Pat. “Half a cup.”

No doubt, Juan would require a lot of practice before becoming a seasoned drinker.

On our ride to Spider Rock, an 800-foot sandstone spiral and home of Spider Woman, who possesses supernatural power, I asked Juan about skinwalker sightings.

“Grandfather saw one,” he said. “He was walking in canyon when an old man offered him a piece of fry bread. If grandfather had eaten it, he would’ve turned into a skinwalker, may become a dog.”

“How does one know if a

person is a skinwalker?” I asked.

“Don’t.”

I pondered that and thought about Largo’s wife giving me fry bread.

“I’m not eating anymore fry bread,” I announced to Pat. “From here on out, it’s pork’n’beans and crackers for me.”

The thought of becoming a skinwalker and turning into a dog gave me the creeps. Imagine, chasing cats, cars, and fetching sticks, not to mention scratching fleas and licking myself. Ugh! On the other hand, there are benefits from living a dog’s life. They don’t pay alimony, child support, college tuition, or income taxes; make mortgage payments; tithe to the church; or worry about going to hell since, for some unexplained reason, sin doesn’t apply to them. As an added benefit, they can chase female dogs and fornicate with impunity, take naps when they want to, fart in public, and ride around in air-conditioned cars with their heads poked out the window. Hmmm, a dog’s life isn’t all that bad.

On second thought, pass the fry bread, please.

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Dog Barker

Out With The Old, In With The New?!

by Joel Allen

When I was a boy, my mom taught me to treat other people and animals with respect and kindness. She also taught me to stand up and fight for those who cannot or do not have a voice. Does that make me a PETA member? Absolutely not!

Are there better ways man can treat animals?

I believe there are. But that is a different path and opinion I do not wish to go down.

Suffice it to say, how a person treats their animals shows me how they would treat people. Mark Twain stated, “The more people I meet, the more I love dogs.” I have often thought this when I see the world as it stands.

We, the people of Athens, have members of the community who are very high ranking that do not care for their animals as many of us do. Their thought process says, “It is just a dog. Eh, so what if it is chained outside or tethered to an area 24/7!

Who cares? I don’t have to worry about the voter until Election Day, and by then, they will have forgotten what I decided to do or did with my decision on the council.”

Wake up “SHEOPLE!” I don’t care if that politician is a Democrat or Republican. If we allow them to keep thinking they are not working for us, the PEOPLE, then why vote?

Open your eyes everyone and just look, watch, and listen. Then, watch their actions, because actions speak louder than words.

Now, why am I ranting

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so much?! I am about to share why; and when the guilty party or parties see this, they are either going to feel the guilt, shame, or maybe even anger, because I know who they are … and they know I know the truth about them. Besides, I think we need new blood in these local political offices.

Once upon a time, there was a high-ranking official who lived in the land of Athens, Alabama. He had some dogs who were getting older, and the man

did not want to dirty his hands with caring for them. So, his trusting dogs loaded up in his vehicle and went for a ride.

He arrived at the local animal shelter and escorted his dogs inside. His words to the staff, “My dogs are getting too old for me to care for. Either find them new homes or euthanize them.” His actions will name him; I do not have to. But my vote will say much.

What a betrayal of trust!

Dogs promise two things

to man: their love and their life. No strings attached.

Now, I am going to mention a border collie who came in as a stray. He is elderly and does not have much chance of being adopted because he is old.

His name is Sterling, and he is waiting for someone to just give him a place to call home for his last days.

I saw him and he was quiet and just laid there in his shelter bed while his neighbors barked for attention.

He has the black and white coloring of a border collie and appears to be full-blooded. He is listed as being found on 16 May 2018. No one has claimed him as of yet. If someone wants to provide this dog with a loving home for the rest of his days, please contact Athens Limestone Animal Shelter 256-7717889.

Now don’t get me wrong.

Circumstances can lead to many surrenders, and it is heart breaking. Deaths in the family can cause

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family members not to want to take on the dog, leading to surrendering the dog. I know of one surrender where someone had to give up her dog, and she was a wonderful beagle mix named Daisy.

We still think about her a lot, but she was placed from the shelter into a rescue facility.

From what I know, she is happily adopted and loved to this day. The only reason that she was given up was when her owner moved, her dad would not allow the dog to come and live with them.

When we all get old, unless God calls us home early, we are going to reap what we sow. What the youth of today learn from their elders will be their actions taken tomorrow. A parting shot to the ones who believe a dog is just a dog, and it is okay to dump them in a shelter or on the side of the road when they are old – the betrayal they feel is terrible. They shake with fear because they are locked away from the familiar

smell of home, and their routines they knew for years, come to a grinding halt. At a shelter, they are housed in a room with a concrete floor and a door leading in and out when it is time for exercise. The new smells they endure are unfamiliar, and all they hear when they are taken in are the other dogs barking and crying. What a terrifying feeling that must be to be dropped off by someone they trusted, and when they look up their human they loved with all their heart is not there anymore.

Listen everyone. One day you will be old, and when that day comes, your children you taught to follow your example will come to you and take you in to their home, or away to a nursing home because you are too old and cannot care for yourself anymore, and they may not want the responsibility just as you did not want the responsibility of your dogs. Let that sink in, and then you should repent of your sin not to me or the community but to God the Father who saw what you did. The Philistines are at your gate!

“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

June 1 - June 14, 2018

Mental Health Minute

What Are The Questions?

by Lisa Philippart, Licensed Professional Counselor

“You can’t get right answers if you’re asking the wrong questions.”

- Mark Victor Hansen

The foundation of exceptional counseling, in my opinion, is being able to know the client well enough to ask the “right” questions.

I have witnessed that a question posed at the precise moment in time, when a client is open to examining change, creates that “aha” moment. And that client is never the same. There is an organization that specifically addresses the skill of questioning called the Inquiry Institute. The Institute teaches everyone, not just therapists, that “great results begin with great questions.”

One can learn how to question the thinking process to break those unhealthy patterns in life, and start fol-

lowing a new path of growth and change. I believe that the principles of questioning can and should be applied to the bigger picture, specifically, our culture and society.

Let’s look at the world of mental health and mental illness. I have been practicing counseling for over ten years. I consider one of my best attributes to be the ability to read and assess nonverbals in my clients. This also carries over to my interactions with friends, family, and even those I have just met. (You have now been advised!) This skill is important because many people have difficulty expressing themselves verbally. What is going on in their brains may be challenging to put into words. This is why the field of mental health is so unpredictable. No one can read another person’s mind.

The only way I can under-

stand someone is through their words and their actions. And, often times those with a mental illness are unable to express those ideas in their heads. For example, I have had several experiences involving clients with suicidal thoughts. I can tell they are depressed by their body language and how they tell me they are feeling. But the critical piece to moving forward with the client is to ask specifically, “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” Has the depression crossed over into possible self-harm? Every client to whom I have asked this question, displays a sense of relief. Finally, someone asked.

Those with mental health concerns benefit from having a therapist who asks the questions that they themselves cannot seem to communicate vocally. Words matter. One client might be

searching for how to share her feelings of anxiety. I can help translate what is going on in her mind. One client may hear voices, and be unable to tell the difference between the voices internally versus the voices externally.

How can she express that?

What are the questions that need to be asked in order to help her verbalize her confusion?

Recently, tragic events have led to a review of the mental health care system.

Questions are correctly being asked about how these tragedies could have been avoided. The topic of mental health care deficiencies always comes up. I am here to tell you that the best therapist in the world cannot read anyone’s mind. And while I may be familiar with my clients’ previous words and behaviors, I cannot completely predict their future actions. I can only help or

take action with my clients based on what they tell me and their observable behaviors. For example, school shootings have raised many questions, but so far, few answers. Most of the questions and outrage revolve around gun control, school security, mental health care, and violent video games. But my question is this, “Why are students killing their own classmates?”

As a counselor, my concern for the future of mental health involves the minds of our collective society, especially our young people.

Because of my profession, I am able to experience more deeply the possible root causes of cultural problems.

And I am seeing a disturbing trend in our society, which is seeping into my offices. People are becoming disconnected to the world and to others. I’m getting less and less eye contact, both in and out of my offices. Clients want an “app” to fix their problems. Clients think it’s my job is to fix the world, so they don’t have to change. Clients acknowledge spending more time in the “pretend” worlds of their phone and games than in the “real” world. The questions need to be raised now, for the future of our brains, our minds, and most importantly, for humanity.

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.

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Medical Update

A Healthier, Happier Summer Starts With These Tips courtesy BrandPoint content (BPT) - In the cold of winter, at the start of the year, people all across the country resolve to live a healthier lifestyle - yet summer is actually the perfect time to start your resolution. Think about it: the weather is beautiful, the kids are out of school and fresh produce is abundant.

muscle mass and, best of all, have fun. And did you know that moderate exposure to sunlight can also provide the vitamin D your body needs to fight off disease? Bonus!

Pick an activity that appeals to the whole family (furry friends included) and you're more apt to stick to your routine.

Instead of starting a resolution to live healthier at a time when you'll be cooped up inside to avoid the cold, why not do it now when you can't wait to be outside?

* Start your day off right.

Summertime is full of indulgences, from ice cream cones to frosè to s'mores over the campfire. Don't be afraid to dig into these treats, but make sure the rest of the day stays balanced. Everything in moderation, as they say! A bagel or toast with a quick spread of Arla Cream Cheese made with no artificial flavors or preservatives is a quick, nutritious way to start your day off on the right foot. When you start with a cream cheese that is so deliciously

Your path to success begins with these five tips. * Get the family outdoors. Whether it's hiking, walking, gardening or swimming, there are scores of things to do outdoors during the summer, and any of these can help you burn calories, improve

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simple, it's easy to layer on the farmer's market fruits and veggies. Give it a try and you'll find an entirely new breakfast routine to fuel your summer fun. * Grab some shades.

Proper eye care is advised all year long, but it's especially important in the summer when you're outside in the sun.

Invest in a good pair of shades capable of blocking at least 99 percent of all ultraviolet A and B rays. Then make sure you wear them when you're outdoors. Not only will you look incredibly cool and chic, you'll also reduce the possibility of wrinkles developing around your eyes and ward off cataracts. * Serve up healthy snacks. Having a casual neighborhood get-together calls for easy, bite-sized snacks

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to complement your summer drinks. Skip the chips and aim for healthy snacks instead.

Cranberry cream cheese dip, cheesy snack bread with grilled local vegetables, and warm spinach and Gouda Gateau will all redefine your idea of good snacking, and they're easy to make. Visit Arla's website to find your inspiration and make casual al fresco hosting more delicious and healthy than you ever expected. * Take that vacation. Yes, actually take it. Your total health is more than just your physical wellbeing; it's your mental health as well. Nothing helps you reset the batteries like a good vacation. With that in mind, make sure your vacation doesn't create stress.

Keep travel and related expenses to a minimum and you'll spend more

time enjoying your vacation and less time wondering how to get everywhere and pay for it. If traveling overseas or taking a whole week away is too big of a leap, instead try a long weekend in a new city in your own state, or road trip to a National Park and book a campsite. There are options at every budget level, and summer is the perfect time to get out and go!

Start enjoying a healthier lifestyle today There's no reason to wait until next winter to start living a healthier lifestyle. Everything you need is right here in the summer, so formulate your plan, apply the tips above and stick with it. Do so and your resolution will be holding strong by the time New Year's rolls around again.

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