Issuu

June 15th - July 5th, 2018

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

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

Publisher's Point The Huffstah Has Headed On Home... Wayne Huff, who, with his wife Deborah, founded Athens Now in 2007, has finished his battle with cancer. The man was my friend, my... Page 3

Welleswood Wedding And Event Venue: One Wonderful Year Later By Ali Elizabeth Turner About a year ago, Lisa Elkins took a huge risk and moved here from Florida to open Welleswood Wedding and Event Venue at the historBrianna Collett Photography

Continued on page 15

Tina's Tales The Bottom Is Not A Location... As a recovering addict, I have had many bottoms. Just when I thought there was no further down to go, I would drop another notch.... Page 5

What Makes Ronnie Roll The Smart Car Invasion... Two years ago, Mayor Ronnie was at Applebee’s and met a local retired couple by the name of Charlie and Diane Plotz. Charlie had worked at... Page 8

June 15 - July 5, 2018

Boneyard Antiques On The Square: Where You Can Have Fun Rethinking Antiques By Ali Elizabeth Turner

I have found over the years that there are certain stores that have a strong “vibe,” perhaps one of whimsy, serendipity, or plain old fun. Boneyard Antiques opened on June 1, and Continued on pages 17

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June 15 - July 5, 2018

Publisher’s Point Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Copy Editor

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 Sandra Thompson Deb Kitchenmaster Jackie Warner Tina Cook Tim Lambert Wanda Campbell

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Tina's Tales . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 6 From The Vets' Museum . . . 7 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 8 Slinkard on Success . . . . . . 9 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . 10 PlayAction Sports . . . . . . . . 11 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Anna . . . . 13 The Millennial Mind . . . . 14 Cover Stores . . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 16 Learning As A Lifesyle . . . 18 View From The Bridge . . . 19 Horse Whispering . . . . . 20 Mental Health Minute . . . 21 Med Point . . . . . . . . . 22

June 15 - July 5, 2018

The Huffstah Has Headed On Home

Wayne Huff, who, with his wife Deborah, founded Athens Now in 2007, has finished his battle with cancer. The man was my friend, my brother in Christ, and my mentor in the newspaper business. He made me laugh, and occasionally made me cry. Sometimes my eyes would glaze over and my head felt like it would blow up with trying to understand the vision he had, and more than once Wayne made me wonder if I had lost my flyin’ mind by trying to publish this paper. There are only a few folks that I can say radically changed the course of my life, and he is in the top five. I had no experience in business, let alone the newspaper business, or being an entrepreneur; and my learning curve was insanely brutal. Still, Wayne and my husband Steve believed in me, and issue by issue, edition by edition, I began to get the hang of it. Deborah was patient, as was Jonathan Hamilton, our design guy, as well as Teddy Wolcott, my web gal, and every two weeks a miracle occurred – Athens Now got put to bed, picked up from the Times Daily in Florence, and delivered. I started to write for Wayne and Deborah in 2010, at the suggestion of Jerry Barksdale. Our first meeting was a breakfast at Cracker Barrel that went on for about 3 hours, and I am told by at least one observer who was there that our exchange seemed intense enough that it would not have been a great idea to interrupt. We challenged each other to the max, and I am sure drove we each other to our knees to “take it up” with the Home Office. Wayne and Deborah treated me like a family member. There were the weekly viewings of “24” with Deborah commandeering the clicker and yelling

at the TV. We would all laugh. There were times when I babysat Emma and Micah, whom I nicknamed Emz and Budder. Once when Steve was not able to be home for Christmas, I spent that morning in Huffdom enjoying what was one of my most memorable holidays, ever. It snowed, the kids went nuts with their new trampoline, and it was like being on the front of a 21st century Currier and Ives card. One Thanksgiving we were all together with all five Huff kids, and Deborah cut me loose to set the table. Again, an unforgettable event. Tough times came. Deborah’s mom was diagnosed with cancer, and they moved to Arkansas to walk her through her last journey. Wayne and Deborah’s marriage was greatly strained, nearly to the breaking point – something that is all too common with terminal illnesses. Then, the miracles began. Their marriage was restored, and the celebration was all over Facebook. Having experienced a similar miraculous restoration of

our own marriage, I don’t think anyone could have been happier than Steve and I. Then, the worst news that a family can hear came. Wayne was diagnosed with cancer. He fought hard, they all did. And though miracles did not come in the form of healing or even long term remission, what I saw develop in Wayne Earl Huff became the stuff of legends to the glory of God Almighty. There was a peace when you came in the house that was palpable. Nathan, Wayne’s oldest son from his marriage to Janet, drove from Athens to his sister Natalie’s church in Louisiana so that

Wayne could give his testimony about facing down stage-4 melanoma. The Huffstah gave an altar call, and I am told that close to 75% of the people in the building came forward to do business with God. The last time I saw him, I walked in the room and instead of greeting me with his usual “Hey, Ali girl,” he looked at me with supernaturally intense eyes that bore through me with the unmistakable color of heaven, and he said, “I am not afraid.” I replied, “I know you’re not.” Then I asked him, “Wayne Earl, what is it that YOU want?” He quickly replied, “I want to evangelize.” I smile through tears as I write this, because God had already started to answer that prayer. I have had people come up to me on the street, and I have been able to tell them this story. One nurse at Vanderbilt felt his eyes were so intense that they became what she called “Jesus eyes.” All the angst had melted away, all the unmet personal goals were let go, all had been forgiven, and I have rarely seen someone so prepared to slip into heaven. I have shed many tears of grief over the past week and a half, and I have also praised God in the highest for the messy, complicated, utterly redeemed and reconciled life of my friend, Wayne Earl Huff, my brother, the Huffstah. See you soon, dear one, and I will do my best to finish well what you and your Deborah, my Hufflette started. God rest your most precious soul.

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

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All Things Soldier

What Can We Expect From The Kim/Trump Summit? by Ali Elizabeth Turner

Irrespective of one’s political perception of the recent summit between North Korea and the United States of America, I think it’s safe to say that what happened was at the very least amusing on several levels, was inarguably nerve-wracking, and also has the potential to completely re-define the global geo-political picture. Both sides are claiming victory, which is to be expected, and my personal favorite moments were Kim getting a chance to stick his head inside “The Beast,” which is President Trump’s up-armored limo, and President Trump offering to help Kim build condos on North Korean beaches. I also cringed at CNN’s Jim Acosta’s mortifying behavior of shouting questions at both leaders without being invited, a gaffe that would get anyone else booted out of the press pool. The fact that Mr. Acosta then said in a hot mic moment, “That’s what happens when you don’t invite me to the f--king party,” and as of this printing still has a job

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anywhere, is proof that an industry that no longer seems to have any standards just landed unceremoniously in the cellar. Some folks are championing the temporary cessation of the U.S. war games held off the coast of Korea, and some are horrified that this signals a softening that could be disastrously interpreted as

a lack of a state of readiness in the South China Sea. As is often the case, I could make an argument for both concerns, and to me the only reasonable thing is to take a “wait and see” approach. I heard the president promise to rebuild the military when he spoke in Nashville two weeks ago, and he was very clear as to what he

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was going to do, how he was going to do it, and how much it was going to cost. I have no problem believing him, and I am convinced that he truly has our service members’ best interests at heart. As a businessman, I do appreciate the fact that the president is unusually gifted when it comes to determining if there has been fiscal reciprocity when it comes to the manner in which our tax dollars are spent. He is all for a strong defense and giving our soldiers what they need to get the job done, yet I must say that as a soldier supporter, I had never heard anyone on either side assert that those particular war games were not effective, either from the standpoint of cost or readiness. Prior to June 12, I would have assumed that they were

just a necessary way of keeping both the North Koreans as well as the Chinese at bay, literally. The only thing at this point that keeps me from hollering, (figuratively, of course,) “Mr. President, what are you thinking of?” is the fact that it appears that “The Art of the Deal” is most definitely in play. By that I mean that, perhaps, Mr. Trump is re-purposing the war games as a way to insure that the North Koreans, in fact, keep up their end of the bargain by following through with denuclearization. If they do, no war games within reach of the beach. If they don’t, we show up off their coast while someone says, “Let the games begin.” So, while it’s risky, it might also be really smart. Time will tell, as it always does.

June 15 - July 5, 2018

Tina's Tales

The Bottom Is Not A Location by Tina Cook Director, Athens-Limestone County Family Resource Center As a recovering addict, I have had many bottoms. Just when I thought there was no further down to go, I would drop another notch. What I have learned through experience is that bottoms are not really locations, they are a state-ofmind. If they were merely places, situations, or consequences, I might not have stayed homeless for 2 separate multiple-year periods in my life. I certainly wasn’t raised that way and I always, to an extent, knew how to escape. But, there are many who do not know what it is like to live anywhere else; they can’t click their heels together with closed eyes and recite, “There’s no place like home.” Because if the bottom is a location, they are home and life has assured them that there is no way of escape. Though I did not always grasp the gravity of it, I was born blessed. I was not a trust-fund baby or born with a silver spoon in my mouth, but I can easily look back and see that I got way too many yeses and very few noes as a child. Though I am sorry for the pain my life of addiction caused others, I am so thankful that today, I fully embrace how fortunate I was for my raising; even the tragic things are not so tragic in comparison to the lives of so many.

lived outside. I don’t recall more than a handful of times ever sleeping outside or somehow not finding a roof to sleep under. When I could scrap up the money to rent a room AND still get high, I stayed in roach infested, run-down motels. In the better days gone by, I would figure a way to rent them by the week and stay there selling drugs and other things illegal until it got hot (police), and I would move on to the next sleazy motel in the drug circuit. At some point, I would always end up incarcerated. My mama and other family members have always told me that they slept best when they knew I was in jail. They were comforted to know that I was not dead, in danger, or high out of my mind; they would pray that just maybe I might decide to do something different when I was released to get my life back on track. Though in the later years, they became resolute in their unwillingness to help me or even talk to me; they

were blessedly assured that I knew exactly how to escape. I knew another way of life because I had lived it; so, that certainty was rooted way down deep inside. I don’t believe that is the case with people who come from street-life upbringings, generational poverty, etc. It always amazed me that so many ladies I was in jail with had so many visits from family and friends. They would have money for commissary and phone calls. They got mail, pictures, magazines/ books, and any other privileges that we were allowed. Their families would pay for legal fees and show up in court. If there was any way to bond them out, they did that, too. It was a world foreign to me because my family never, ever bonded me out of jail. They certainly did not make my life seem like a party while I was there. Though they did write and visit a little in the early years of my addiction, they did not EVER do so during my re-

I have discovered since I’ve been sober the past few years many insightful things surrounding my experience while living in the street world. I had wondered many times why I remained an outcast, and was hurt over and over by people I was good to and tried to look out for. I now believe with all my heart it’s because no matter what I did or how I behaved, I did not belong there and it showed. I was an outcast! I always had something they didn’t have…a choice. I remember asking my drug-dealer one time when I was going through a particularly low period, “Do you ever think about getting out and doing something better with your life?” I saw so much potential in this man, so much personality, style, and a great business mind. It seemed logical to me that he would want more. But, his answer was a simple, “No,” with a look like he didn’t know what I meant. It has now become clear to me that for him, what he was doing was his better life. Many things, such as this, along with experiences in my own life, have helped me realize that the bottom is not a place you hit. It is a place that hits you in one way or another. For some, it’s the first time they lose control, miss work, sleep

The second period in my life that rendered me homeless really changed my mind and heart about, well…everything. I would like to explain that being homeless does not necessarily mean I slept or

June 15 - July 5, 2018

lapse after 10 years in recovery; in fact, they disowned me. This alone tells me the difference in state-of-mind involved. It was acceptable to go to jail/prison by these people; in my world, it was very unacceptable.

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with a stranger, or get arrested. For others, it takes more than that, like losing a family, a job/career, sleeping with someone for money, or going to jail over and over, etc. And, then for others, it is somewhere you are born and need tremendous help to get out of. Regardless of what it is, there is a way of escape, because the Bible tells us so in many, many ways. I like to think that God allowed me to go through every single thing I went through so I could be transformed. Do I think He predestined me to travel that road of pain and agony causing others pain as well? No, but He has turned my ashes into roses…my pain into purpose. (Isaiah 61:3) I have lived among those held captive; those who were born into a hopeless state-of-mind. I grew to love them because I saw them; many of them took me in and cared for me during some dark days in my life. Now, I want to be a hand of hope reaching into the bottom where they are trapped... showing them that I may not live on the streets anymore, but I have not forgotten…that the same hope and choice I have always had, is there for them as well. Treatment is available to anyone that wants it in today’s society; salvation always has been. I want to help as many as I can to click their heels together and find a new way of life and an eternal home. I want to be a beacon of light to those who live on the streets, so I can help them escape right alongside me!

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Calendar of Events Camped on a Stream with Historic Mooresville Jun 16

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. Youâ€™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 July!

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.

Fridays After Five Jun 15

Downtown Athens stays open late and offers shopping and dining specials, music, art and more. End your work week by staying late with us for Fridays After Five.

Athens Saturday Market Jun 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.

AmVets Country-Fried Steak Dinner Jun 21

American Veterans Post 21 (22769 Black Road in Athens). Country-fried steak meal from 11:00AM-1:00PM or 5:00PM7:00PM for $6.50. All are welcome. For more information: 256-444-2793 or www.AmVetsAL21.com

Songs of Treasure Island Jun 25

With Hampstead Stage at the Ardmore Public Library, 25836 Main Street in Ardmore, TN. 10:00AM. For more information: 931-427-4883.

Smokin' Railroad Street BBQ Cook-off Backyard Division Jun 29 - 30

Downtown Elkmont, AL. Kickoff concert Friday (6/29) at 6:30PM; Saturday (6/30) starts with Vendors opening at 8:00AM; People's Choice Tickets go on sale at 11:00AM with tasting starting at 11:30AM; Winners announced at 3:30PM. Concessions will be available: BBQ Plates, Sandwiches, Hamburgers, Hot Dogs.

3rd Annual Salem Faith & Freedom Festival Jun 30

Summer Concert Series: Tom McClung and Friends Live Jun 15

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.

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

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. Page 6

For the third event in the Behind the Picket Fenceâ€Ś History Lives series, guests will experience life during the Civil War as the Town interprets several events that occurred in Mooresville during wartime from 2:00PM-6:00PM. Tickets: $25.00 per person. More information and tickets at MooresvilleAL.com

7AM - 11PM. Hwy 99, Salem, AL (next door to Salem Farm Store) Rain date, Sun July 1. This year we will have a community yard sale that anyone can join. Set up and be ready at 7am. At 12pm the yard sale will close to make more room for the festival. Donate any unwanted items to be auctioned off at 12:30. Free space for booth and business set up. The famous bingo tent with prizes will be back, great concessions and food, live musical entertainment, games for all ages, most patriotic dress contest, with prizes awarded. At dark have your chair ready for a spectacular fireworks display with music and a tribute to our Flag put on by our local Certified Pyro Techs.

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June 15 - July 5, 2018

From the Alabama Veterans’ Museum

Alabama Veterans Museum Turns 20 Years Old! by Sandra Thompson, Director, Alabama Veterans’ Museum August 2018, will mark twenty years since the articles of incorporation were signed making the Alabama Veterans Museum a legal entity! And, boy, look how far we have come in that short 20-year span! Athens has a long and proud history of military service. Within the walls of our museum, we share stories and preserve the memories of brave service members from all over the state of Alabama. We are ready to do even more honor our veterans. As everyone knows, there is always something going on at the museum, and the next few months are no different! Please join us for these upcoming events: July 4 - Museum will be open to host visitors. Please join us on one of the most patriotic days of the year! Open regular hours 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. July 7 – Coffee Call spon-

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of Science and Energy in Oak Ridge, TN. July 13 - It’s fish time at the museum! This year, Swamp John’s will be hosting our annual fish fry. Meal includes fish, shrimp, chicken, fries, slaw, hushpuppies, drink and desserts. The event will be at the Limestone County Event Center from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Get your tickets at the mu-

sored by Rehab and Recovery Center at Limestone Health Facility. Starts at 8:00 a.m., with breakfast provided. July 7 – We will have the return of a very special display coming back to the museum. This exhibit honors a part of the military that is overlooked by many, but

plays an important role in the lives of our service members. The exhibit, “Faith and Courage,” recognizes the contributions of U.S. military chaplains. Faith and Courage was developed and designed by Tom Walker, former exhibit designer for the American Museum

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seum or at the door for just $12.00. July 28 – Athens Limestone Association of REALTORS presents “A Night to Celebrate,” a fundraiser for the Alabama Veterans Museum featuring comedy magician

Denny Corby. Tickets will include dinner and show for $55.00 each or 2 for $100.00. Get your tickets at the museum, Eastside Pharmacy, and the Chamber of Commerce, or contact Amanda at 256-7774212. Purchase tickets by July 19. Sponsorships are available! August 19 – Join us for “Celebrating the Veterans Museum: 20 Years Of Collecting Memories.” The event will be held at the Athens Senior Center at 912 W. Pryor St., at 2:00 p.m. We will take a look at the museum from its beginnings to today with a show incorporating skits, music, and museum artifacts. It will be humorous, it will be serious, and it will be a memorable event as we honor all of the sacrifices of our military heroes and those on the homefront. Tickets are $10 a person, $5 for 12-under and will be available at the museum or at the door.

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

The Smart Car Invasion by Ali Elizabeth Turner Two years ago, Mayor Ronnie was at Applebee’s and met a local retired couple by the name of Charlie and Diane Plotz. Charlie had worked at Browns Ferry for 11 years, and he and Diane were now “playing” by zipping all over the country in their newly-acquired Smart Car. Charlie and Diane discussed with the mayor the prospect of organizing a national Smart Car rally and bringing it through Athens. “Go for it,” he said essentially, and on Wednesday, June 13, our fair town was invaded by a group of folks from as far away as Ontario, Canada; Kansas; Nebraska; and points beyond who had all gathered to experience the South in their Smart Cars. The mayor, Amy Golden, and I walked over from City Hall to the Courthouse to view the cars and meet the drivers. Upon arriving, I told anyone who would listen to never buy me one because I would be way too tempted to drive on the sidewalk, like they do in Europe, as well as park in all manner of illegal tight spots just because I could squeeze in there. That is a temptation I just don’t need! Tourism Director Teresa Todd gathered the rally participants on the Courthouse steps on the Marion Street side, they had their photo op, and then everyone moved to a shade tree to hear a brief history of Athens extemporaneously delivered by Mayor Marks. His talk included the sacking of Athens, the Scottsboro Boys case and Judge Horton, Trinity/Ft. Henderson, and Mme. Childs facing down Union troops who were intent upon destroying Founders’ Hall. While watching the listeners, I could tell they were surprised that we had such a rich

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Another said, “Preshrunk,” and another was decorated with what looked like a toy key attached to the back to wind it up. The Plotzes had made maps for people to take themselves on a selfguided tour of Athens, and several merchants and restaurateurs offered discounts to our visitors. Other stops on their itinerary include the Alabama Veterans Museum, the Space & Rocket Center, and Lynchburg, TN. Then they will scatter to the four

history, and they were enjoying what they were hearing.

and they also keep an SUV in which to haul the grandkids.

What is surprising to most people about Smart Cars is that they have a lot of leg room. Made by MercedesBenz, they also have a transmission that can function as an automatic or a stick, and you can shift back and forth between either configuration at will, even while driving! They have a 3-cylinder engine, and can go 90 miles an hour. A retired Air Force Tech Sgt with 40 years of service took the mayor out for a spin, and Ronnie came back with a grin. I was next, and got to thank Dave Seavert for his service as well as learn all about how he came to love the Smart Cars so much. He and his wife each have one,

People decorate their cars in all manner of creative ways and have hilarious bumper stickers. One car said, “My Smart Car is smarter than your Smart Car.” Another said, “You just got passed by a car with 3 cylinders.”

winds in their “diminutive drives.” Upon returning to City Hall, we talked about what had just happened at the previous week’s dance recital put on by Kelly’s Studio of Dance. City Councilman Frank Travis showed up on

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Thursday night to offer a prayer, followed by Mayor Ronnie on Friday, and City Councilman Chris Seibert on Saturday. The performances were top notch, and the lighting was as good as any you would see anywhere. As glad as we are that we can pray at public events without censure, what made Ronnie the happiest is the fact that Marie Trent, who is an alum of

KSD and is pursuing a career in dance, comes back every year to help the kids “put their best foot forward” for the recital. “People like Marie and the kids on the Youth Commission are the future of this town,” he said. I nodded, we prayed, and then it was time for Ronnie to roll.

June 15 - July 5, 2018

Slinkard On Success

Make Every Day Count For Something by D. A. Slinkard

D.A. Slinkard is the manager of the Athens Staples store It is amazing how our lives can change in the blink of an eye or in some instances, the single beat of our heart. We are just one heartbeat away from death whether we realize it or not. It saddens me when I open up the obituaries and see how young people are dying all the time; I wonder if these people had a clue it would be their last day on this earth. Unfortunately we are all facing a death sentence; the question becomes what are we doing with the time we have? Life is too short to get caught up on its mundane things; yet, if we are not careful, Father Time will pass us by, and we will be left saying, “What could have been?” I am constantly

June 15 - July 5, 2018

on the hunt for new ways, ideas, and techniques to better enhance my time. I am fortunate to have two young daughters who are quickly growing up before my eyes. It is hard for me to fathom the fact I am about to have a teenager here in a few short months; but time stands still for no one. What kind of example am I setting? Am I being the best role model I can be? Am I setting the godly example of how a husband should be to his wife? These are all questions and thoughts that I think about. I referenced the new ideas and techniques in the paragraph above; I think you might be able to call it a “life hack.” I am all about trying new life hacks to be able to squeeze more time in my day than what I should be able to have.

The new technique that I have been playing around with is assigning a task for every hour of my day. We are all busy doing something whether it is at work, spending time on our hobby, hanging out with the family, we are all doing something every day. Yet, we have all of these time wasters that grab a hold of us and before we know it, we have wasted three or four hours doing absolutely nothing. Hello! Can you say Facebook, Instagram, Twitter? I finally decided I wanted to maximize my days, and when I looked at my calendar, I had too much white space going on. I am all about goal setting and strategic planning, but sometimes we need to be a little more aggressive when it comes

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to the way we attack our daily routine. I have written before that we must write down our goals if we want to achieve them; and I still believe this. However, my way of thinking has changed – we must take each day one step at a time. This means that we plan out our days. Instead of just saying, “Tomorrow, I need to pick up dry cleaning, mow the yard, etc.,” we need to plan out every single minute of the day. We need to clear up that white space so we can squeeze every second of our day for what it is worth. When we start maximizing our time to the fullest, when we start planning the work, we will then be able to work the plan. We have to be intentional, though. We must write down what our goals

are and what we want to achieve, but then we must work these steps into our daily routine. As we progress through the day, we should be able to see what tasks we get stuck on, and we can use this as a potential way to overcome these roadblocks. We all have 24 hours in a day. We all have 1,440 minutes. But the question is, are we using our time wisely? The better we use the time, the more we get done; if we fail to use our time, then we eventually find ourselves saying, “What could have been?” Life is all about choices we make on a daily basis, and we must look at the day as if it could be our last one here on this earth. The truth is that it just might be. What are you going to do with your time?

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Tourism

Are You Ready For Some Red, White, And Boom? by Cayce Lee Social Media Specialist, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association Independence Day is just around the corner, and there are some exciting events coming to Limestone County. Whether you are looking for fun with the family or want to celebrate with a bang – it will be happening here.

30, as they host the 3rd Annual Faith and Freedom Festival kicking off at 7:00 a.m. with a Community Yard Sale, vendor booths, Bingo and games for all ages, concessions, live music, and the Most Patriotic Dress contest. Be sure to bring your chair and settle in after nightfall for a fireworks show.

The Athens Lions Club Kiddie Carnival, located on East Forrest Street in Athens, opens June 28 for Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays (except July 4th) with 10 rides for the kids, bingo, and concessions for the kids at heart. Each ride is 1 ticket, each ticket is only $0.50 – so it’s an excellent night of fun and memory making for all generations. Feeling hungry? Grab the family and head out to appease your appetite at the Kansas City Barbecue Society sanctioned Elkmont Lions Club Smokin’ Railroad Street BBQ Cookoff on June 29 and 30, in the heart of downtown Elkmont. People’s Choice tickets are just $2.00 and are a great way to sample the competitors. Plus vendors, live music, and concessions can keep you entertained and happy, too.

and friends? Head to northwest Limestone County on Alabama 99, and you’ll find the small township of Salem and the Salem Feed Store. This is a place to definitely seek out on June

The big firework show comes to Athens High School stadium on July 4 with Red, White and Boom! This year’s event is part of our bicentennial celebration, and there will be specially designed tshirts reflecting the occasion. New this year will be the addition of music set to the fireworks that will be hosted on Cat County WSLV’s new FM station, 105.1. So, as the rockets sail into the sky, you can enjoy the synchronized music sponsored by Huntsville International Airport. See y’all there!

Have boat and want to hit the water with your family and friends? June 30 is the 12th Annual Elk River Boat Party on Anderson Creek just off the Elk River starting at 3:00 p.m. This boat-only party will be rocking the water with live music and fun. Rather stay on land and have fun with the family

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June 15 - July 5, 2018

PlayAction Sports

Local Spring Sports—In Like a Lamb, Out Like a Lion by Tim Lambert

Tune in for the PlayAction Sports Update, three times each weekday on 1080 AM WKAC. Visit us online at www.pasnetwork.net!

email: playactionsports@hotmail.com Just as predicted in last month’s column, local spring sports got off to a slow start –thanks to the weather – but wrapped up in a flurry of action, with many county schools taking part in bonus postseason competition, including Ardmore, Athens Bible School, Athens High, Elkmont, James Clemens, and West Limestone. Honors were also bestowed on Athens Bible School's Cade Abernathy, who was chosen for the North-South All Star Baseball Team, and Ardmore's Karla Hice and James Clements' Lila Young, who were picked for the North All-Star Softball Team. Baseball: In round one of the playoffs, Ardmore turned back Arab to advance, ABS won their series against Cedar Bluff, Athens was eliminated by Pell City, James Clemens knocked off Mountain Brook and West Limestone topped Randolph to move on. Round two saw ABS sweep Shoals Christian, but Ardmore lost to Brooks, James Clemens was taken out by Hewitt-Trussville and West Limestone was eliminated by Sardis. ABS fell to Spring Garden in round three.

out of the losers’ bracket to finish as area runner-up. James Clemens was eliminated by Buckhorn, Athens lost to Hazel Green, Tanner was shut out by Hatton, and Clements had their season ended by West Morgan, who was defeated by area champ Elkmont. In regional tournament play, Ardmore dispatched Douglas and Lawrence County to punch their ticket to the state tournament. ABS lost to Tharptown, but came back to defeat Gaylesville before being eliminated by Covenant Christian. Athens topped Fort Payne, stumbled against Austin, bounced back against Albertville, and was finally knocked out by Hazel Green. Elkmont shut out New Hope in their regional opener, but was eliminated after losses to Lauderdale County and Col-

bert Heights. West Limestone fell to North Jackson and Central-Florence. Soccer: The James Clemens and East Limestone girls were the only local teams to make it out of the first round of state playoffs – the Lady Jets held off Huntsville while the Lady Indians turned back Priceville. East Limestone’s boys were taken out by St. John Paul II; the Jets were edged by Grissom. The Athens girls lost to Hartselle and Elkmont’s boys were topped by St. Bernard. In round two, the James Clemens girls thumped Spain Park, while the East Limestone girls came up short to Westminster. James Clemens was nipped in the state semi-finals by Vestavia Hills. Track:

At sectional meets, James Clemens' Vada Samuels won the Class 7A 400 meters, Sylvia Cortes finished first in the 800 meters, Shataeya Ligon was first in the 100 meter hurdles, Uriah James placed first in the 300 meter hurdles, Ashley Osaji took the long jump and triple jump and Zuri Falkner won the discus. On the boys' side, Nolan Smith was first in the 400 meters and Miguel Cortes claimed the javelin. Both 4x400 meter relay teams won their events. In 6A, Athens High's Micah Boles-White won the 100 and 200 meters and Caden Shoulders finished on

Golf:

Softball: ABS won their area softball tournament with a victory over Whitesburg Christian and followed that up with a couple of wins over host Decatur Heritage. Ardmore beat Lee twice to claim their area title. West Limestone fell to Danville, but won a rematch coming

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top in the discus. In 4A, West Limestone's Cassidy Winter won the 300 meter hurdles. Tanner's Nautica Noble was first in the 2A triple jump; the girls' 4x100 relay team was first. In 1A, Nicolas Ulrich of ABS won the 1600 meters. At state track meets, James Clemens' Vada Samuels was third in the 400 meters, Shataeya Ligon finished third in the 100 meter hurdles, Ashlee Osaji came in second in the long jump and third in the triple jump, Zuri Falkner won the discus and was third in the shot put and the girls’ 4x400 relay team won their event. West Limestone's Cassidy Winter placed third in the 800 meters. Elkmont's Chase Prater was runner-up in the 3200 meters and third in the 1600 meters.

West Limestone's Drew Beddingfield makes contact against Sardis (Photo credit: Dean Baucom)

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Clements won their sectional golf tournament. Matt Smith took medalist honors for the Colts while Makayla Browning and Nicole Towe led the girls' team. Smith was also low medalist in the sub-state tournament while the Lady Colts golf team took first place. The Clements girls finished third in the state tournament, led by Abigail Baker’s two-day total of 171. The Colts’ Matt Smith competed as an individual, finishing with a total of 142, good for fourth place.

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Clean and Green

LITTER: So Who Is Really To Blame? by Lynne Hart Executive Coordinator - Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful

There has been a great deal of talk about litter lately, and for good reason. Just take a ride and look at the roadsides in Athens and Limestone County. It seems that as quickly as the litter is picked up, it reappears. Why care? Litter is ugly, costs huge amounts of tax dollars to clean up, causes injuries to wildlife and people, spoils and degrades nature, pollutes water and soil, lowers property values, and gives the impression residents do not value their community which can have a negative economic impact.

prise about 38% of all U.S. roadway litter. • Almost 46% of all litter over 4” is from packaging, including fast food, snack, tobacco, and other product packaging. • 61% of beverage containers found on U.S. roadways are soft drink and beer containers. Off the roads, most litter is improperly discarded at “transition points.” These are places where people consuming food or tobacco

What’s out there? Have you ever wondered what’s really out there and where it comes from? Let’s take a moment and examine the source and composition of litter. Here are some interesting facts derived from a comprehensive study done by Keep America Beautiful: Litter on roads and highways is the result of individual actions. • Along roadways and highways, motorists generate 52.2% of litter and pedestrians 17.5% • Motorists not properly securing truck or cargo loads, including collection vehicles, represents 20.7% of roadway litter over 4” in size. Along U.S. roadways, improperly discarded cigarette butts are the most frequently identified item. • Tobacco products com-

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products have to discard them before entering. The most littered items at transition points are candy, gum, and tobacco products. Who is to blame? It is easy to look at these statistics and point fingers at others; however, before we do, we should examine our own behaviors. It is a fact that some people who would never litter anything else will flick a cigarette out of the car window or drop it on the ground without a second thought. We can complain about loose trash flying out of sanitation trucks; however,

the problem begins with residents failing to put all items inside a trash bag. Athens City Ordinance Section 46-96 –Cart Service (i) states: “Every person shall dispose of solid waste in a clean and sanitary manner by placing it in bags before putting it in the cart. It is the responsibility of the residential customer to keep solid wastes contained in the cart.” This also means it is the resident’s responsibility to clean up trash that somehow finds its way out of the cart, no matter how it happens. It is easy to become upset when we see litter trapped

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along waterways and fence rows; however, it may have come from trash left behind at an outdoor event in a park, stadium, or other outdoor venue. It is not uncommon for trash to be left in the bleachers at ballgames and other sporting events. Wind and rain can easily move that trash before there is a chance of getting it cleaned up.

nately, there are people who tell their children that it’s OK to litter because the inmates need something to do? Yes, over the years I have heard this from several students. I am dumbfounded every time. Inmate labor is not free! Someone is paid to supervise them, there are expenses associated with the vehicle that is used, and supplies must be provided. These are your tax dollars that could be used for something else. Let’s examine our own behaviors and work to change our personal habits and those of our families. Every small change made can add up to huge positive impacts over time.

Trash along our roadsides is disgusting; unfortuBecome a Fan

(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com June 15 - July 5, 2018

Cooking with Anna

Summer Sunrise Punch by Anna Hamilton

My sister, Mary Ellen, is the Queen of Punch. She is amazing; she has a punch recipe for everything. In the South, it is a tradition to match the punch color to the wedding colors. Mary Ellen can match them all. Even if your wedding color is the most delicate shade of purple, she has your punch. Bridal showers, baby showers, wedding receptions, house warming parties, graduation parties, any occasion when we can have a party needs a great beverage, and in the South nothing makes a great party like punch. Now punch can be a variety of things. You can have punch that is fruity and sweet, punch that is rich and decadent, punch that is even made with coffee (it’s like having a giant bowl of iced coffee).

In the summer, I love to make punches that aren’t too sweet. Something icy and cool for these sweltering humid days. One of my favorite punch recipes came from my sister’s husband’s grandmother. My sister has made this as a breakfast punch, perfect for a brunch party. She has also made it for many baby showers and bridal showers. But it is equally delicious as a drink to relax with on the front porch with a fan while you watch the children run through the sprinklers. Make a batch of this delicious tropical punch to keep in your refrigerator this summer. Sit down with a tall glass and waste the afternoon away, enjoy the summer and watch the sun melt in to the sky.

Summer Sunrise Punch What You Need:

1 can frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed 1 can pineapple juice 1 can cream of coconut

Directions: Mix thawed orange juice and pineapple in a gallon size pitcher. Shake can of cream of coconut well in order to combine ingredients. Pour cream of coconut in to a bowl and microwave until fully combined. Add cream of coconut to the juice mixture. Once the coconut has been mixed into the juices, continue to add water to the gallon pitcher until full. Mix well and store in refrigerator to chill. Enjoy!

June 15 - July 5, 2018

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The Millennial Mind

The Glory Of The American People by Rosemary Dewar

As much as culture seems to be splitting away from sound rationale, there is much to recognize as hopeful. After observing the overzealousness of the nationalists and the self-righteousness of the neo-communists, it is certain that they are few in number. Society is aware that it does not take many to cause serious unrest. If one is allowed to conquer the other culturally, the collateral damage affects the conqueror as well as the vanquished. Even though there is plenty to be concerned about, I believe the best action is to step back and breathe. So much of this is has been seen before: riots and politically-influenced violence. It is as if the 1960s have been completely forgotten. The memory has gone the way of tall-tales and myths. America came out of a chemical stupor long enough to experience a cultural re-

naissance in the 1980s. I repeatedly hear from my hippie-converts to conservative mentors that they have seen this all before, and a revival is approaching. I am compelled to believe them. They should be professing it more often. The fear of division is not unusual. During the birth of the United States of America, the Founding Fathers anticipated the friction that came with the integration of opposing ideas. They did not want to mistake novelty for uniqueness. Federalist James Madison stated, “...the most wild of all projects, the most rash of all attempts, is that of rendering us in pieces, in order to preserve our liberties and promote our happiness. But why is the experiment of an extended republic to be rejected, merely because it may comprise what is new? Is it not the glory of the people of America, that, whilst they have paid a decent

regard to the opinions of former times… and the lessons of their own experiences?” Learning is the key component on how we are to move onward. The assertion that something ought to be censored for its possible dissonance inhibits the learning process. Each individual and their expression is novel. Limiting what could be learned is a purposeful violation of discovery and advancement. The recent deluge of tragedies such as natural disasters and mass shootings have a way of reopening a genuine discussion of what American values are. What are we supposed to be standing for? The standard that was sacrificially built upon which the citizens of the United States rely is exactly what we are desperately attempting to preserve. The starkest dilemma is that we are now presented with two gen-

erations that were never exposed to the concept that America had any fundamental values. In response to this idea, one cannot simply say, “Because I said so” or “Because God said so” or “Because the Bible said so.” In order to effectively expose these generations to this fundamental fact, we must be willing to take time to explain “why.” Furthermore, any action that obstructs the ability to have this conversation is a direct threat to liberty. Founding Father Benjamin Franklin stated, “Without Freedom of thought there can be no such thing as wisdom; and no such thing as public liberty, without freedom of speech.” Whether a person is conservative, liberal, religious or not, once you assert that an individual ought to be forced to censor themselves in order to avoid challenging you, the result is that all will ultimately

be censored. Targeting the individual beyond the bounds of the U.S. Constitution is discrimination. Any variant from this crucial core will decline into a tyrannical and fascist abuse of power. The Judeo-Christian worldview presents the idea that an individual is not to pass judgment on his neighbor until they have taken the time to realize that they themselves have a fatal flaw or a blind spot. You may feel justified in your perception; however, you can be just as harmful as the person at whom you are pointing the finger. If you are intent upon the improvement of society and culture, you must be willing to engage in constructive dialogue. Any statement or answer that is unmeasured, either yours or someone else’s, must be tested in order to affect that improvement. James Madison

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June 15 - July 5, 2018

Cover Story

Welleswood Wedding And Event Venue: One Wonderful Year Later by Ali Elizabeth Turner

ical home which is owned by the Gilbert family. For many years, the venue been known as Madelyn’s, and is located at 1005 Elkton Street, on the north side of town. Lisa has Athens roots, and always told her family here that if the place ever became available, to please call her immediately. Well, they did; she came; and the rest is a marvelous bit of history that is unfolding right before us. Lisa will be quick to tell you that none of this could have happened without the blessing of God, the help of her husband, her sister Tammy, family members and friends, and the welcoming people of Athens. Everybody has been rooting for her, and it has all paid off. Lisa and Tammy are fast friends as well as “partners-in-non-crime,” and in addition to doing Welleswood, Tammy works with the team that manages the Gilbert family land holdings. Their joint venture has come together to become something quite splendid, and my hope is that it will continue on for years to come. By way of a bit of history, the stately home with its columns, deep wraparound porch, eight fireplaces, stained-glass and beveled windows, porticoes, parlors, grand view, and massive trees was originally built by Captain T.L. Wells, and sadly it burned down. The home that graces the property now was purchased 90 years ago by the Gilbert family, and it will stay with them as part of their legacy. In honor of Captain Wells, Lisa and Tammy chose to name the place Welleswood, and they have had a truly wonderful first year of making memories for Athenians. While still in Florida, Lisa worked for many years for a lawn and garden company,

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Brianna Collett Photography

and on the side, she did events. Over time she collected a number of reception pieces that would fit beautifully in a place like Welleswood. They include, but are not limited to, Royal Albert China, sil-

ver service sets, linens, theme props, holiday decorations, and more. As the Welleswood business has built up, Lisa has been able to purchase more linens in navy blue, court rose, and sage, which are the current trending colors. They also now have a portable oak parquet dance floor; there are more chairs and tables; they built a pergola; and the landscaping has been brightened. However, there is a heartwarming feature that has be-

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come wildly popular that is simply referred to as “the doors.” In this era Flowers by Jeannie Pirtle of Nip and Tuck Florist of fondly re-purthe head table. posing all manner of items Lisa and I talked about what from the past, the Welleswood happens when the weather is team built a shabby-chic archiffy. Typically a large tent will way out of old paneled, woodbe rented as a Plan B, but for en doors, newel posts, and one wedding, they moved all bric-a-brac that were already of the furniture off the porch, there on the property, a tribute set the tables on it, and had to a bygone era before pressthe ceremony right at the board and vinyl were inventtop of the stairs. The bride ed. It has become a monster and groom had their first hit as a featured part of weddance under the charminglyding venue amenities. Some lit north side portico. There people have chosen to get have been some parents that married on the lawn in front have prayed, and the weather of it instead of the stairs and has cleared up. You are going columns of the house. It can to have to decide for yourself be moved and decorated, and if that is a miracle, but I am as grand as the house is, some a believer, and it sounds like brides have chosen to go with the Lord’s M.O. to me! EiWelleswood for their wedther way, the weddings have dings because of “the doors!” gone on without a hitch, and In keeping with combining elthe resulting word-of-mouth egant with rustic, one of Lisa’s is keeping them busy. favorite weddings this season One of the things I appreciate is featured as part of this arabout Lisa, Tammy, and their ticle’s illustrations. The bride family is their desire to make and groom covered the round the day special for not just tables with burlap, and then the bride and groom, but both layered old Battenberg-style wedding families as well as lace tablecloths on top. They the guests. They labor out of used several generations of love, and the thank you notes flower-filled family china tea they receive prove it. cups to place around the main Welleswood is not just for centerpieces, and used two weddings, and this past year distressed and painted chairs has seen Christmas and Easfor the bride and groom at ter events, bridal and baby showers, and I can also tell you that Welleswood’s prices are more than reasonable. During the interview, we sat on the front porch in the Amish rockers, gazing out into a perfect summer day kissed by breezes and full of fields and horses; and I had to hope that someday I will get a chance to come as a guest. If a stunning venue, versatile package options, and stellar customer service are what you are looking for, then Welleswood is waiting. Give them a call today. Brianna Collett Photography

continued from page 1

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Health and Fitness

Heart Healthy Diet by Janet Hunt

Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment. A heart healthy diet is a diet that is low in cholesterol, saturated fat, sugar, and sodium (salt). Below are some tips for a heart healthy diet: • Read labels. Do not purchase foods that list palm oil, coconut oil, or hydrogenated oil. All these oils are unhealthy oils. • Use only small amounts of vegetable oil in salads and cooking. Choose safflower, corn, soy, sunflower, peanut, canola, or olive oils. Use non-stick spray in place of oil. • Bake, broil, steam, poach, or grill. Do not fry. • Cook with little or no salt; and season with herbs and no-salt seasonings. • Limit your red meat to 3 oz. servings once or twice per week.

• Butter, hard margarine, and Crisco should be avoided. Creams, whole milk, ice cream, sour cream, and most cheeses have high levels of saturated fat and should be eaten in moderation. Below are additional suggestions for a heart healthy diet: • When eating meat, select meats with a lower fat content. Trim all visible fat from the meat and remove skin from poultry before cooking. • Bake, broil, roast or BBQ meats – never fry. • Eat fish and poultry. Limit beef and pork to only one or two times per week. • Read nutrition labels carefully and check the nutrition facts.

• Add more meatless dishes to your meals. • Limit your salt or sodium to 1500 to 2300 mg per day. Sea salt is NOT healthier that standard table salt. Himalayan salt is NOT healthier than standard table salt. • Limit dining out to only one or two times per week. And when dining out, check nutritional information before making food selections.

2. If you ate 2 servings of this product, how much sodium will you have eaten?

tainer = 500 calories. 2. 2 servings x 470 mg per serving = 940 mg of sodium. 3. No.

3. Is this food item a good choice for a heart healthy diet?

For more information regarding food labels and heart healthy diet, talk to a registered dietician or a certified Health Coach.

Answers: 1. 250 calories x 2 servings per con-

How to read a food label? Begin by reading serving size and sodium content information. For example, if a serving size is 1 cup (250 calories per serving, and 2 cups per container), the sodium content is 470 mg, then answer the following questions: 1. If you ate the entire box of this product, how many calories will you have eaten?

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June 15 - July 5, 2018

Cover Story

Boneyard Antiques On The Square: Where You Can Have Fun Rethinking Antiques by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

every time I go in there, I want to chuckle. The owners, Andy and Wendy Yarbrough, along with their vendors, clearly love what they are doing, and it shows everywhere you look, both in what is available, as well as how it’s displayed. Let me give you an example. Do you remember the CocaCola product in the pink can that is known as Tab? It also happened to be the very first diet cola, and I didn’t think they made it any more. Well, for the grand opening, there were cans of Tab placed on the arms of the woven ‘60s lawn chairs set outside against the north wall that made one think it was a true summertime “blast from the past.” They were the kitschy decorating touch of Frank Crafts, of Frank’s Good stuff, and when I saw them, I laughed out loud and said, “Oh, what a hoot!” For those of you who are local history buffs, Boneyard Antiques on the Square, which is located on the corner of Market and Jefferson in Athens, has been many things over the years. These include a funeral home, a Christian book store, and a women’s clothing store. Wendy took me on a tour of the place and all its nooks and crannies, which have been uncovered in the process of “revealing the Boneyard.” She showed me the elevator where the bodies had been taken up to the second floor for embalming, the window on the Jefferson Street side where they had been laid out for viewing, and the freezer area where they had been stored – essentially a morgue. Wendy and Andy learned from a woman that the two closets

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under the staircase going up to the second floor were “white and colored” restrooms during the era of Jim Crow. We agreed that it is always important to just “let the story be the story – the good, the bad and the ugly,” and now Boneyard is a place where history can be redeemed. The vendors are all committed to helping folks find exactly what they are looking for, and everyone has fun in the process. So, how did Andy and Wendy come to enter in this adventure? As I sat at the old soda shop table for the interview, both of them were visibly moved by the desire to honor the memory and legacy of their respective grandparents, as well as to preserve the history of the building. This is no passing fancy; for the Yarbroughs, this is a passion that verges on being a calling. They had both loved their grandparents’ homes as kids, and keenly felt the items in those homes had stories that needed to be told. Wendy’s grandmother had been raised during the De-

home with family pieces as well as ones they had found, and opening their own place has been a dream since they met in college at Alabama. Andy’s grandma was called “Mama Chickie,” and her place yielded all manner of old tractors. For Andy’s part, he loves to see tools have a new life, but has a personal “line in the sand,” which is, if the piece is still usable ac-

have artwork, jewelry which is designed to be ‘wearable art,’ candles, vintage clothing, re-purposed pieces, and all kinds of barn wood. We want to give people a chance to own a piece of history.” They both said that another one of their goals is to build a “Boneyard community.” By that they mean a place where people can come, find what they are looking for,

cording to its original design, he does not want to see it be re-purposed. If it’s broken, no problem, have at it.

and build relationships in the process. The Yarbroughs are committed to being fairlypriced and going the extra mile to help customers find what they are looking for. “We want to make old things available in new ways, and preserve history,” Wendy said. Andy ended our time by saying, “We have been working toward this all our life.” Come to Boneyard and experience what it is like to “rethink antiques.” You’ll find what you are after, have fun while you are looking, and leave knowing you have new friends.

pression, and “Mamaw’s crystal” had been passed down to each succeeding generation. “Mamaw had an outhouse until I was 12,” Wendy told me, and added that she had been greatly saddened by Mamaw’s passing. Wendy used to be fascinated by “going back in time” when she would visit, and strongly feels that “every piece has a story,” which she wants to help tell. She and Andy had decorated their own

I asked them, “I have choices when it comes to finding all kinds of grand old stuff, so why should I come to you?” Andy went first. “We have a vision to embrace the past, and give people a chance to find eclectic pieces, antiques, and retro, and have fun while they are doing it. Wendy continued, “We also

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Learning As A Lifestyle

Summer Happenings by Wanda Campbell

Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 “Summertime/And the livin’ is easy/Fish are jumpin’ and the cotton is high” Ella Fitzgerald, a popular female jazz singer, recorded this George Gershwin opening to the classic Porgy and Bess in 1968. More recently, Kenny Chesney, an American country music singersongwriter, sang: “Perfect song on the radio/ Sing along ‘cause it’s one we know/It’s a smile, it’s a kiss/It’s a sip of wine, it’s summertime/Sweet summertime.” (2005) Whatever favorite song you have, summertime is a special time for memories. At Athens State University’s Center for Lifelong Learning, we are making memories in summer camp programs that started May 29 with the Super Sitter Camp. The Super Sitter Camp taught campers how to care for children. Instructed by experts at Athens Limestone Hospital, the Athens Police Department, the Athens Fire Department, and Limestone County 911, campers learned about safety, nutrition, and emergencies.

brake Golf Course, from 9:00 -11:00 a.m., Monday through Thursday. Whether you already know how to play the game or are a first-time enthusiast, this camp will be fun and informative. PGA instructors will be on hand to work with each camper, teaching them the fundamentals of grip, stance, posture, and swing. Recommended for ages 8-14 years. Great Brick Adventure is held at the Alabama Center for the Arts in Decatur, from 9:00 -11:00 a.m., Monday through Thursday. Join us for a different LEGO theme each day. From Outer Space to Superheroes to Minecraft, we will have a difference brick adventure each day! If your child loves to invent and build, they will love this camp. Recommended ages 8-12 years. Stop Motion Animation is held at the Alabama Center for the Arts in Decatur, from

1:00 - 4:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Learn the techniques of stop motion animation and make your own short movie! Teams will use movie-making software to add titles, music, sound effects, and more. When the movie is complete, campers will impress friends and family with a screening party on the last day. Don’t miss this chance to be a movie producer! Recommended ages 8-12 years.

Hip Hop Camp is June 25-28, from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday, at the Center for Lifelong Learning. This fun-filled camp explores the most popular dance craze in the world. Learn high-energy steps that you can combine with your own freestyle form to create the per-

fect hip-hop combination. Family and friends will be amazed when you show off your latest moves. No previous experience required. Recommended ages 8 and up. From Cows to Cotton is June 26-29, from 9:00 a.m. - noon, Tuesday through Friday, at the Center for Lifelong Learning. Join us as we visit several local farms and talk with professional growers. Come along as we learn about commercial farming, family farming, and the science of farming. Recommended age 8-12 years. There are more camps listed on our website www.athens.edu/CLL - or you can come by the Center for Lifelong Learning for a catalog of camps. To register for a camp, you can call us at 256-233-8260 or register on the website www.athens.edu/CLL.

Coming up next week, June 18-22, are Tee Time Golf Camp, Great Brick Adventure, and Stop Motion Animation. Tee Time Golf Camp is held at the Cane-

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The week of June 25-29, we will host Hip Hop Camp and From Cows to Cotton.

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June 15 - July 5, 2018

The View From The Bridge

Get the Calculator Out! What’s your Net Worth?

Jackie Warner

by Jackie Warner

Career Development Facilitator “Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters

How much cash would you have if you sold everything you own and paid off all your debts? Do you really know? And why is this important? First, let me preface this article with a disclaimer. I am not a financial advisor or an accountant. I am just someone doing a little homework on financial knowledge, or the lack thereof, and sharing the newfound information with you. How many of us really take the time to review where we are financially? We save. We invest. We pinch pennies but we also spend, spend, spend! So, what is net worth? It is the amount by which assets exceed liabilities. In simple terms, net worth is the difference between what you own and what you owe. Knowing our net worth is valuable insight for us personally because it is a way to identify where we may be spending too much of our money. Yes, we may have the means to buy an item, but do we really have a need or purpose for it? Yes, No, Maybe. To reduce unnecessary spending and debt, ask yourselves if the majority of your purchases really represent your

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needs. Think about it -- Is your debt short-term or long-term? You want it now, so what do you do? -- use your credit card or take out a loan. What’s the interest rate, and how long will it really take you to pay it off? Most consumers just look at the low monthly payment and do not really calculate the cost of those cute shoes that started out costing you thirtyfive dollars. By the time you finish paying for them – sixty-eight dollars later – it really wasn’t a good deal at all. Regardless of your financial situation, just knowing your net worth will help you evaluate your current financial health, and plan for your financial future. 1. Know what you owe! Are you able to eliminate or reduce this debt? 2. Know what you own! Don’t leave any assets out: equity in your home, investments, collectibles, cash, vehicles. 3. Spend less money. See where you can trim the expenses you have. Re-evaluate annual agreements and insurance premiums. A dollar here and there adds up. 4. Pay more each month on

your mortgage. 5. Diversify your income – Have multiple streams and commit to using them to save more and decrease debt.

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Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional Jackie Warner, Community Outreach Specialist

Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com Check out upcoming events: http://thebridgeus.yolasite.com/

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Horse Whispering

What Kind Of Horse Do You Have? by Deb Kitchenmaster Wearing a ‘horsey’ tee brought out excitement in the teenager waiting on me at the store. “Do you have horses?” “What kind?” It wasn’t but a few days later (without the horsey tee) that the ‘what kind’ question was asked again. I realized it was STORY TIME! Would you walk 100 miles for a horse? As the story goes, Justin Morgan and farmer Abner Beane had been neighbors in Springfield, Massachusetts (1700’s), until Justin moved 100 miles away to Randolph, Vermont, where he served his community as a schoolmaster and a singing teacher. Justin found board with the parents one of his young scholars named Joel Goss. Closing the school doors for the summer, Justin and Joel began the walking journey to collect money that Justin had loaned his neighbor and was now in need of payback. Before he and Joel sat down at the table, Justin told farmer Beane the reason for their travels. “I just ain’t got the money,” sounded in Justin’s ears. “Would you take a colt instead of cash?” There were two colts, Ebenezer and Little Bub, out in the pasture. Best of friends they were, one with possibilities and the other a ‘runt.’ The return trip began early in the morning with a halter on Ebenezer and a “good-bye” to Little Bub. Suddenly, there was much commotion! It was Little Bub; he had pushed by farmer Beane to be with his friend. “Hey, Justin!” yelled the farmer. “The little one, he wants to tag

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that if each one lent his apprentice boy for an hour a day, the raceway could soon be scraped as smooth as any track in the big cities. He knew how to put a question to get a ‘YES’ answer. What tedious work, making a race track out of a rutted path, but they did it and the first race was scheduled. You could hear the comments as the spectators were placing their bids. “Yeah, when it comes to running,

challenge your work horse to run against our celebrated racers (two elegant thoroughbreds known as Silvertail and Sweepstakes; famed for their stamina and speed). Offer accepted. Race: October 15, 1796. The Morgan horse won that race against Silvertail by five lengths. The crowd went wild! Another

along. Better take him with you.” Day after day as they journeyed northward toward Vermont, their fellow travelers admired Ebenezer and scoffed at Little Bub. Arriving home, Joel gentled Little Bub. Mister Fisk had been watching the lad, Joel, ride a small horse in the moonlight. He had a piece of wooded land along the White River, and he wanted to rent the horse for a year. His hired hand, Robert Evans, needed a horse to help him clear the land. He would pay $15.00 a year for the rental of the horse and, of course, pay for the animal’s keep. Resurrected from this hard work, came a colt that was able to pull heavier loads than a pair of oxen. Runt and all! The fame of this little colt grew, and men soon dropped “Little Bub” to “Morgan’s horse is handy, quick, and strong.” Morgan’s horse can pull like living quicksand.” Everywhere he became known as “Morgan’s horse,” and his extraordinary ability spread up and down the valley. In fact, farmers refused to enter their drafters and oxen in the pulling matches

because no one could match the muscles and the heart of this little horse. Another five acres of Mister Fisk’s land was cleared and planted. Men put in long hours planting, hoeing-in wheat, rye and oats. They were missing the pulling matches that seemed to help them forget their weariness from back-breaking work. It was Nathan Nye who thought up quartermile racing. There was an open straightaway along one branch of the White River. His vision was to make the neatest racing strip this side of New York. Nye proposed

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a pulling horse is slow as a hog on ice with his tail froze in.” Overall, there weren’t any bids on the Morgan horse for winning a race. Why? Oh, they had come to their own conclusion that if a horse was good at pulling, he wouldn’t be good at running. Makes sense, right? It wasn’t until the judge announced the Morgan had run the quarter-mile in thirty-six seconds that their perceptions exploded. A letter dated September 30, 1796, from New York, was delivered to Justin Morgan while he was teaching; we

race was called with a fresh horse, Sweepstakes. The Morgan horse won that race, too, on the same day. This is the story of the little runt who became the father of a world-famous breed of American horses – the Morgan. Justin Morgan had a horse, and Deborah Ann has a Morgan. Your NEIGHbor, Deb Kitchenmaster Corral Connections www.corralconnections.com 256-426-7947 Animal B.E.S.T. practitioner horsinaround188@gmail.com

June 15 - July 5, 2018

Mental Health Minute

Forgiveness Counseling by Lisa Philippart, Licensed Professional Counselor

“In the process of letting go, you will lose many things from the past, but you will find yourself.” - Deepak Chopra

As I mentioned in a previous article, one of my biggest challenges is forgiveness. I used to be the queen of grudges…holding on to a perceived slight for years! And though I have come a long way in my self-awareness journey, I still find that my immediate response is to become resentful. It’s just so much easier to blame others for our hurting. Today I’m going to suggest to you that forgiveness is a process, not an act or immediate goal. It

takes being able to understand the why of forgiving, which is accepting that forgiveness is for you and not for someone else. There is a popular quote about forgiveness that I now take exception to: If you can’t forgive and forget, then pick one.” (James Brault) If we can forgive, we release those negative emotions, but what we forget through repression is still going to affect us. Forced forgetting teaches us to deny feelings attached to the person who needs to be forgiven. And in the long run, this will only create an unconscious resentment or anger toward the perpetrator. Forgiveness counseling identifies the stages of forgiveness that you will work with, and through, to begin

the treatment process: 1. Be specific about who and what needs to be forgiven. You need to be able to identify who has caused the negative emotional or physical attachment. Then, you can recognize the specific behavior that damaged you. Take a moment to write it down and be specific. Try to separate the person from the behavior. This will help to change your perspective when you are trying to understand the situation. You are not looking for excuses, but rather for explanations. 2. Go ahead and feel the feelings. This is where you bring your emotions about the damaging behavior to the surface. Find a safe place to do this. You will be letting out your feelings in order to process and to re-

lease the toxins from your system. If you need to cry, do it. If you get angry, find a benign spot to let the anger out. (This is where a professional may need to intervene.) 3. Understand why forgiveness is a healthy option. You have most likely formed anxious and negative attachments to the one who has hurt you. This “cord” to the perpetrator is usually one of resentment, hate, anger, bitterness, or even shame. When you sever this “cord of toxins,” you can feel liberated, lighter, and freer. Cutting the cord allows you to move forward toward the positives of life. 4. Rebuild safely. This means that you create clear boundaries, so that the person who damaged you can-

not repeat the behavior. It takes courage to be able to forgive, because we open ourselves up to our vulnerabilities. Facing our emotions is difficult in the beginning, but in the end can be liberating. Forgiveness is a feeling, not a behavior. So, it has to be authentic, for true healing to take place.

Many people are unable to handle personal problems of this type on their own. It helps to have a neutral party to focus on recognizing harmful patterns, address areas that require change, and navigate through the mind’s processing. A forgivenesstrained therapist will allow you to get your feelings out in the open to then work toward understanding and positive action. This type of therapist will actually serve as an extension of yourself. You can then place trust in the counselor to help you forgive and heal. This form of counseling is not nearly as important as finding someone whom you trust to share your intimate life details. Feeling connected to your therapist allows you to trust her advice, and know she has your best interests in mind.

Next step: Do you need to practice forgiveness so that you can move on with your life?

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.

June 15 - July 5, 2018

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Medical Update

Easy Tips To Save Money On Health Care courtesy BrandPoint content (BPT) - As Americans work hard to meet all the obligations that come with work, family and everyday life, many are challenged to find time to manage all the financial elements affecting their health care. The details associated with health care insurance can be confusing. At the same time, you want to make smart decisions about the quality health care you and your family need. Out-of-pocket health care spending rose by more than 50 percent between 2010 and 2017, The Atlantic recently

reported, partly because half of all health insurance policyholders in the U.S. are dealing with annual deductibles of at least $1,000. Whether you're uninsured or simply facing a high insurance deductible, you can take several steps to better manage your health care budget. Consider how the following money-saving tips can help control the rising costs of health care. * Read bills with a critical eye. Any bill can include administrative errors, and some estimates have indicated errors on as many as 80 percent of

medical invoices issued, reports the Medical Billing Advocates of America. That statistic makes it well worth your while to examine and question your expenses before you pay. * Lower the cost of your meds. The free Inside Rx prescription savings card provides discounts on prescription medications for eligible patients. According to the data, eligible patients have saved an average of 40 percent on the more than 100 featured brand medications included in the program, and even more on generic medications. Inside Rx

is an option to help the uninsured, those facing high deductibles or anyone trying to save money on their meds. Inside Rx even offers prescription savings for pets for qualifying medications. The card is free and easy to download, with no registration process. * Compare costs whenever possible. Some medical services can be difficult to compare on an apples-to-apples basis, but it's worth doing your homework before making appointments for more standard services such as annual checkups, lab work and testing,

dental care or dermatology services. Check vendor websites, make phone calls and conduct web searches to find online databases, such as HealthcareBluebook.com, that suggest fair prices for services. If you're insured, your insurance provider can clarify what portion of the bill will be covered. * Be bold about negotiations. It's OK to speak up. You have nothing to lose by politely asking your health care provider to work with you on the price of an upcoming service, especially when dealing with a private practice. Start the conversation by aiming for the Medicare rate or an amount close to that paid by commercial insurers. As an alternative, ask the office administrator to set up a manageable payment plan. * Consider paying cash up front. Some vendors offer discounts for simply paying cash for your services without funneling everything through insurance. Even if you're insured, you can still evaluate whether immediate cash payments would be lower than your postinsurance costs. Keeping a close eye on where you might be wasting money on health care can pay off in a big way - and the remedies don't have to be complicated. Conduct your due diligence on such costs to protect your financial health as vigorously as your physical health.

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June 15 - July 5, 2018

Mondays at 10am 1080 AM WKAC June 15 - July 5, 2018

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June 15 - July 5, 2018