March 21 - April 3, 2014
AthensNowal.com E-MAIL: info@athensnowal.com ADVERTISING: Ali: 256-468-9425 Deborah: 256-309-9399
See Our Listings Inside this edition... Pages 25 - 32
Special Feature Complete Property Maintenance: New Season, New Services... In the summer of 2013, Adam Clinard, owner of Complete Property Maintenance, LLC, found himself in a position that many professionals are sharing these days... Page 7
Special Feature
Valley Pools of Athens and Madison: Where Pools Are A Passion! By Ali Elizabeth Turner Valley Pools opened their second store in Athens (located across from Wal-Mart on Hwy 72) in June of 2012, and is pleased to report that business is good in both the Madison and Athens locations. As a result, they have a number of exciting promotions to share with their customers.
Chris Seibert For State Senate, District One... I first met Chris Seibert when he was running for City Councilman in 2012. As is always true when a political advertorial is being conducted, I had to take his word for it that... Page 11
Continued on pages 16-17
Athens Rehab Spotlight
Spotlight On Mr. Mark Stinnett... 52-year-old Mark Stinnett is one of the younger residents at Athens Rehabilitation and Senior Care, located right across the street from Athens Limestone Hospital. His mind is like a steel trap, but as a young man his body began to fight with him slowly until... Page 21
March 21 - April 3, 2014
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March 21 - April 3, 2014
Publisher’s Point Publisher / Editor Ali Turner
Sales / Editing Deborah Huff
Graphic Design
Jonathan Hamilton
Delivery
Hunter Williams
Contributing Writers Shelley Underhill Lynne Hart Wanda Campbell Janet Hunt Deb Kitchenmaster Rachel Clark, RN, BSN Sandra Thompson Jackie Warner Jim Doyle
Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . . 4 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 6 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . . 7 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 10 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 11 Clean and Green . . . . . . . . 12 Cooking with Shelley . . . . . . 13 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . . . . 14 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 15 Cover Story . . . . . . . . . . 16 - 17 The View From The Bridge . . 19 Horse Whisperer . . . . . . . . 20 Athens Rehab Spotlight . . . 21 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Security Savvy . . . . . . . . . 23
March 21 - April 3, 2014
Crucifying The Convictions Of Cadets? More than once in the past few years Athens Now has “rung the bell” when someone has gone messing with the rights of the brave men and women who routinely put themselves in harm’s way on our behalf. And we must do it again. Cadets at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado have recently had their 1st Amendment rights squashed by an organization with the unfortunate name of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation. What the MRFF seems to be about is to see to it that the military is kept from all things religious, not protect the free expression of religion. Here is the “tone of tolerance” contained in a memo from the MRFF’s spokesman, Mikey Weinstein.
but Christ liveth in me. And the life that I now live I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Weinstein called for charges of “misconduct” for anyone who put a Bible verse on their whiteboard, because they were creating a “hostile environment.” Boy howdy, talking about being loved is hostile, don’t you think? The cadets have fought back, and various scriptures, even ones from the Koran, showed up on whiteboard after whiteboard. They figured that as
they be removed. In truly professional parlance, Mikey said the following: “Congratulations, Michelle!! Now you have a revolt on your hands... What are you going to do about this? Will you enforce the [Air Force Code] and the United States Constitution ...or will you merely give your usual spineless lip service to it and conveniently look the other way? ...Hmmm... let me guess... see you in court.” Hmmmmmm….no, let ME guess, fella. If you are going to interfere with the
“[The message] massively poured fundamentalist Christian gasoline on an already raging out-of-control conflagration of fundamentalist Christian tyranny, exceptionalism, and supremacy at USAFA.” And the offending item(s)? Wait for it….. whiteboards! Cadets actually had the audacity to put scriptures from the Bible on the individual whiteboards that are near the entrances to their rooms at the Academy, which the MRFF found so offensive that they called for the whiteboards to be scrubbed of scripture. The scripture was Galatians 2:20“I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live, yet not I,
long as political correctness was going to rule the day, they’d demonstrate diversity by including scriptures other than those from the Bible. The “God graffiti” showed up overnight, a true “night strike,” and the Foundation countered with choice emails to Lt. General Michelle Johnson, Superintendant of the Academy, demanding that
unacceptable. Either the Air Force is very confused about the Constitution of the United States or they don’t really believe in the liberties that are provided by that document.”
Constitution while you say you are protecting the Constitution, what you will be facing is some push back, which thankfully has come with both force and prudence. Lt Gen (Ret) Jerry Boykin said the following: “Once the academy allowed cadets to use these whiteboards for their personal use, censorship of religious commentary is
Boykin, who has faced down Weinstein before, is literally “rallying the troops,” (in this case both military and civilian) by starting a petition on the behalf of the cadets. His first “target” is General Williams herself, and I am quite confident he won’t stop there, nor should he. If you are interested in keeping the expression of the spiritual convictions of Air Force cadets from being crushed, you can go to www.frc.org and sign the petition.
Ali Elizabeth Turner Athens Now Information & Inspiration 256-468-9425 ali@athensnowal.com Website: www.athensnowal.com
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All Things Soldier
Meet Stormy Ripley by Sandra Thompson - Director, Alabama Veterans’ Museum March is celebrated as National Women’s History Month in thousands of communities and military bases throughout the world. This celebration, designated by Joint Resolutions of the House and Senate and Proclamations by six American presidents, is an opportunity to honor and celebrate women’s historic achievements. Women have been “in” the military as far back as the Revolutionary War where they served on the battlefield as nurses, water bearers, cooks, and laundresses. In 1950, fewer than five years after World War II ended, the United States found itself once again confronted by a war for which it was unprepared. As before, they turned to American women to meet personnel needs, asking them to leave their homes, jobs and families to serve their country. Today, according to the US Department of Defense, there are approximately 204,973 women in the military. The recent groundbreaking decision to lift the ban on women in direct combat ground roles may be the push needed to
finally ensure a move toward equality of the sexes. Meet CW4 (Ret) Stormy McLemore Ripley! Stormy was born at Fort Rucker, Al, into a military family (her father is Retired Col Mel McLemore,) she grew up all over the world as an “Army Brat!” Following in her father’s footsteps she joined the Army in March 1986.
Her first duty station was Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona, where she worked Law Enforcement and Border Patrol. She then went to Panama and was there during Operation Just Cause, where she earned her first combat patch. Also while in Panama, she completed the Panama Infantry Iron-
Man event, Air-Assault and Airborne School and Leadership Reaction Courses (LRCs) In 1991 she applied for both Drill Sergeant School and Flight School at the same time.
It wasn’t all work and no play. In 1993 she married Jim Ripley SFC (Ret) 7th Special Forces Group. “Officers need a good NCO” she said. They have a son, Shane, who was born in 2000.
Fund Raiser ͲͲ 1st Saturday of every month!! (11am Ͳ 2pm) Turkey, Ham and Prize Shoot (Chicken Stew for sale Ͳ $5.00 all you can eat or $5.00 per quart/$17.50 per gallon)
Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapt 511) 17915 W Elm St, Athens, Alabama (Call (256) 232Ͳ0029 for additional information) Page 4
to Haiti after the 2010 earthquake to work with the US Embassy, once again locating and recovering remains of American citizens. She also had assignments in Egypt and all over the United States. She has 25 parachute jumps with the 82nd Airborne Division, 82nd Aviation Brigade.
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She was picked for flight school and graduated as a Warrant Officer (W01) in 1992 and completed Flight School in 1993. Stormy flew UH-1 Huey’s prior to transitioning to UH-60 Blackhawks. The Army took Stormy all over the world during her 27 year career. She had many assignments to include locations such as Camp Humphreys, Korea., and Iraq, where she was deployed for 15 months working Personnel Recovery locating missing service members and civilian contractors. She went
These are but some of the amazing accomplishments of CW4 Stormy Ripley, who retired in April, 2013. After retiring Stormy started working on her Masters Degree in Emergency Management. She volunteers with several of our local Veterans and with the Emergency Management Association. She also spends time going to her son’s sporting events, playing the guitar, singing with family and also writing songs. (www.soundclick.com/stormy) So, in celebration of Women’s History Month and CW4 Stormy Ripley, this retired MSgt would have to say “We’ve come a long way baby!”
March 21 - April 3, 2014
March 21 - April 3, 2014
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Calendar of Events Annual Vidalia Onion Sales Drive
Athens Ladies Civitan has kicked off its annual Vidalia Onion sales drive. The farm-fresh onions will be delivered in early May within 72 hours of being dug in Georgia. Bags are 10 pounds for $10 and may be purchased by calling 256-771-7672 or 256-232-6086, from any club member or by mail-order to Athens Ladies’ Civitan, P. O. Box 1814, Athens, AL 35612. Include check, number of bags ordering, name, address and phone. The deadline for orders is April 11. Proceeds from this fund raiser are used to support activities for special needs kids and adults of Limestone County.
Sci-Quest Spring Break Camps Mar 24th -28th
1435 Paramount Drive, Huntsville, AL Parents, are you trying to figure out some activities for your kids during Spring Break? SciQuest, Hands on Science Center is having Spring Break Camps for children in grades K-5. There’s still time to register for camps! Visit their website sci-quest.org to see a complete list of camps and register online or call them at 256-837-0606
Open Mic Night at Picasso’s Grill Mar 27th
1260 U.S. Highway 72 Athens, AL 8:00PM-10:00PM Join the Athens Arts League for open mic night - read poetry, sing, do impressions, bring your comedy routine. For more information, 256-262-9064
world indicate that the Christian GOD does not exist”. The viewing will be in the main auditorium at Bethel Church of Christ 26772 Capshaw Rd, Athens, Al. No charge for the viewing and all are welcomed.
Athens Historic Walking Tours Apr 5th and 12th
Come join local guides as they stroll through one of five historic districts of Alabama’s second oldest city. Check-in is at 9:45am at the Athens-Limestone Visitors Cente 100 North Beaty Street and tours depart at 10:00am. Free For more information: 256-232-5411 or info@VisitAthensAL.com Join the conversation on Facebook too.
Athens Cruise-In Apr 5th
Shine the chrome, polish the paint or grab the family for some fun on the Square in downtown Athens, AL as the antique cars roll in and park. Enjoy a meal or do a little shopping too. Free For more information: Tschuman@comrep.com Join the conversation on Facebook too.
Gospel Meeting at Bethel Church of Christ Apr 6th - 9th Sunday April 6th 9:30 and 10:30 am after lunch 1:30 pm Mon thru Wed April 7th-9th 7:00 pm Speaker Kyle Butt Bethel Church of Christ 26772 Capshaw Rd, Athens, Al.
Cheryl LuQuire and the Flashbacks Mar 28th
Yesterday’s Event Center 15631 Brownsferry Road, Athens, AL Enjoy a night of your favorite hits from the 60’s, 70’, and 80’s as Cheryl LuQuire joins the Flashback Classic Showband for the evening. Admission is $15.00 for the show. Add dinner -meal, beverage and dessert- to your evening out for $9.95 Doors open at 6:00PM, dining from 6:00-7:00PM, and show starts at 7:00PM. Large groups welcome. Reservations are required, please email info@yesterdaysevents.com
Heel and Crank Duathalon Apr 12th
Heel and Crank Duathalon in Mooresville, AL Registration at Active.com. This race is a beginner-friendly event as well as a good Sprint for the veterans. It consists of a 3 mi. run, a 13.5 mi. bike and a 3 mi. run.
Area Wide Acapella Singing Apr 26th
Huntsville Blooms Apr 1st - 30th
Huntsville Botanical Garden - 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue, Huntsville, AL. The Garden’s Spring Festival of Flowers has blossomed into a celebration of all things spring and has evolved into Huntsville Blooms. Dazzling daffodils, amazing azaleas and more will be bright and beautiful all over Huntsville, but especially at the Garden. For more information and ticket information, contact Huntsville Botanical Garden 256-830-4447 or visit www.hsvbg.org
Live Debate Apr 4th
6 pm. A live viewing of the debate between Apologetics Press author Kyle Butt (denying) and University of North Carolina professor Bart Ehrman (affirming). The subject is “The pain and suffering in the
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7-9:30 pm. Fellowship and refreshments afterwards Bethel Church of Christ 26772 Capshaw Rd, Athens, Al.
Empty Bowl Project Apr 30th
The “EBP” is a grassroots effort to raise awareness of food insecurity and hunger in our community and beyond. The basic premise is simple: Potters and other crafts people, educators and others work with the community to create handcrafted bowls. Guests are invited to a simple meal of soup and bread. In exchange for a cash donation, guests are asked to keep a bowl as a reminder of all the empty bowls in the world. The money raised is donated to LCCI (Limestone County Churches Involved) to meet the food needs for families when other resources in our community are unavailable to them..
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March 21 - April 3, 2014
Special Feature
Complete Property Maintenance: New Season, New Services
by Ali Elizabeth Turner
In the summer of 2013, Adam Clinard, owner of Complete Property Maintenance, LLC, found himself in a position that many professionals are sharing these days: unemployed after many years in a successful career, and starting over in a completely unrelated field. Athens Now featured his “launch” article in August of last year, and the guy did what it took to build his business quickly: work hard and equitably.We have all heard the saying, “When God closes a door, He opens a window,” and I am thankful that Adam not only survived his first season, but has grown enough to add a whole second crew to his workforce. “We have been blessed,” he says without hesitation. Adam’s “previous life” was that of a draftsman, having gotten his certificate at Limestone County Career Technical Center, and he also studied at Calhoun. He specialized in transportation project drafting, but did all kinds, residential and commercial. He drew highways, helped with planning interstate construction, as well as putting together bids. He also drafted plumbing projects, and all in all spent 15 years in a field that he loved, and in which he thought he’d always stay. “It was Kim’s (his wife’s) idea for me to start my own business. She had a good job on the Arsenal, and this was the best time to make that move and get going.” So, what did they decide? “Well, Kim knows how much I love to take care of property and do landscaping, so I took my tax return and bought a mower and a weed eater. I didn’t go into debt,” he added, which was something very important to him. During the summer, most of their client base was residential, and the work centered around lawn and garden care. Adam also did seasonal maintenance on swimming pools, and then buttoned them up
March 21 - April 3, 2014
for the winter. They trimmed low lying tree limbs, did edge work, and were involved in some landscaping projects. During the winter, they concentrated on helping realtors with unoccupied properties that were going to be sold, as well as foreclosures, rental properties that needed help, and “waded in” to the all important job of increasing curb appeal. They did a lot of winterizations as well. Their painting jobs have picked up, and will no doubt increase as people prepare for the spring real estate sales season. “Property preservation is something I really enjoy,” Adam told me. And, as it turns out, has become a larger portion of Complete Property Maintenance’s revenue stream. As you can tell from the photographs, having someone
who truly enjoys “gettin’ ‘er dun” could be a realtor’s or auctioneer’s godsend. So, what is new for the spring and summer season of 2014? Adam has virtually doubled the size of his fleet. He now has two trucks, two trailers, and two crews. They are busy with preparing lawns to look beauti-
can, and visits the Limestone County Recycling Center often. He routinely separates cardboard, metal, plastic and electric items, and with one property preservation project, took an entire truckload of cardboard to the recycling center. Adam and his wife Kim have also taken to building beautiful re-purposed items and furniture made out of pallets and other items. Adam’s mom Garnet just opened a lovely store on Jefferson, called Garnet’s On The Square, and Adam’s herb gardens are on display out front as well as inside. “Pallet re-purposing” is fast becoming a hot trend in the “shabby chic” world, and Adam says the outdoor pieces weather beautifully. He has some in his own yard. Another of Adam’s plans this spring is to build a market for people who are interful once the weather warms up. “Now is the time to ‘scalp all the Bermuda,’ (grass) so that the green comes back, spray, and take care of what unwanted growth came up over the winter.” By spraying, Adam will use a standard herbicide, but he also can use vinegar, which is effective as well. He likes to go green and recycle as much as he
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ested in having “moss lawns.” Adam says, “Basically, you have three choices for your yard: to sod it, which is expensive but quick, to seed it, which takes patience to see the finished product as well as plenty of watering, or to plant moss, which fills the lawn, is green all year long, and requires very little maintenance.” Moss needs water in the beginning when it is getting established, but after that, very little. In addition, moss needs no herbicides or fertilizers. We both agree that there is nothing like the feeling of moss under your bare feet, and I hope his idea catches on. Very soon I am going to be one of his “green” customers, and have him pressure wash my house without using chlorine bleach. I am greatly looking forward to the results, and I already know from experience that he will do what it takes to make the place glow! I guess you could say, instead of being on “Angie’s List,” Complete Property Maintenance, along with many other Athens Now customers, is on “Ali’s List!”
Complete Property Maintenance, LLC
256-497-6447
www.completepropertymaintenance.org
adam@completepropertymaintenance.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/Complete PM LLC Twitter: /@ CPM_LLC Page 7
Our new spring flowers have arrived and we’re busting at the seams with inventory!
Come pick your flowers while they are fresh! Cemetery Vase Inserts starting at $25.00 Cemetery Saddles starting at $18.00 Funeral Sprays starting at $35.00
Bushes starting at .79 cents
See us for all your memorial needs! We keep hundreds of vase insert, saddles, sprays and palls in stock for you to chose from. You can also pick out your flowers and we can custom design your arrangement to your liking (please allow plenty of time for us to do your customs).
Wide Mesh Ribbon 21" x 10yd $7.88
Come check us out! We have something for everyone!
Come see the tool side, we now carry everything for welding, including the gases!
14535 US Hwy 72 • Athens • 256-232-6695
HOURS: 9am-5pm Mon-Sat. • CLOSED SUNDAY We’re only a short five miles out 72 West and county taxes are only 6%! Check us out at facebook.com/jandgvariety Page 8
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March 21 - April 3, 2014
7950 Hwy 72 Suite A Madison, AL
March 21 - April 3, 2014
Brad Pullum for Sheriff
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What Makes Ronnie Roll
The Gift Of Community, Part 11,”E Pluribus Unum”
by Ali Elizabeth Turner
building and the sky was full of papers, flying everywhere, some of them landing on my window ledge… (Three hours later, on the street)…The world outside had turned completely gray. Although it was noon, there was very little light…The air was thick and gray, filled with ash. It was difficult to see more than a block ahead. These streets that we walked every single day looked instead like the surface of the moon. The ground was covered in ash more than an inch thick…Occasionally, we came across a church or a public building that was already responding to the crisis. Priests and church staffs were on the sidewalks outside their churches with tables of bottled water and fruit. Poster-board signs were on display, reading
We have spent several months discussing Gary McCaleb’s excellent book, “The Gift Of Community,” and have come to the end of this little gem. It seems fitting to end the series with the end of the book, interestingly written right around the time of September 11, 2001. McCaleb, who is the former “Ronnie Marks” of Abilene, TX, had a neighbor named Brandon, the son of dear friends. Brandon was in NYC on 9/11, and had the following to say about his harrowing, yet comforting experience:
“Others on my floor rushed into my office and we stood for a few seconds trying to comprehend what we were looking at…Once the flames died down a little bit, we could see the huge gash in the side of the building. Smoke was pouring from the
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‘Water, Food, Bathrooms, Telephones, Rest, Prayer.’ We did not take advantage of these offerings, but were moved to see the community reacting so quickly.” McCaleb finished the book by saying, “Even on the darkest days, especially on the darkest days, it is so reassuring to see the gift of community emerge so quickly. E. Pluribus Unum.” We as a city have a similar set of stories from the April 27, 2011 tornadoes. We came together, and we took care of each other, and we have moved forward. The famous Latin phrase can be translated, “Out of many, one,” or “One out of many.” It is the simplest way to describe what can be done with true unity. One of Mayor Ronnie’s greatest concerns is that even though we have an uncommon level of unity and energy in the
city of Athens, we can so easily grow stagnant and effectively “grow backwards.” The question that remains is, “How do we grow well?” We are a small, beautiful city, and truly, “small is beautiful.” We know we are growing, but how do we keep the small town feel that makes Athens so intimate, and prepare for becoming perhaps not so small?
His answer was simple and hard. “Do the right thing.” If we as Athenians will truly love our city, love each other, love ourselves, and most importantly, love God, we will be a glowing example of becoming “one out of many;” a group of diverse people that understands that true community is a gift, and does everything they know to be a gift to that community. The desire to be that gift “with skin on,” that is some of what makes Ronnie roll.
March 21 - April 3, 2014
Special Feature
Chris Seibert For State Senate, District One by Ali Elizabeth Turner
I first met Chris Seibert when he was running for City Councilman in 2012. As is always true when a political advertorial is being conducted, I had to take his word for it that the things he said about himself were true. He was elected and since that time, through no effort on his part to prove anything to anyone, other people have validated him as a hard worker with good business sense. That is a type of political capital that cannot be bought, and should prove helpful as he contends for the State Senate slot in June’s primary. As was the case when he ran for City Council, Chris and his wife Tiffany sought counsel and prayed. When it became known last August that our area was being geographically reorganized in regard to the State Senate seat, Chris announced his candidacy as a Republican. “Why are you running?” I asked. Without a moment’s hesitation he told me, “I grew up with the idea that public service was part of life, and I feel called to it.” For those that are not aware, the new State Senate seat now
March 21 - April 3, 2014
includes northern parts of Lauderdale, Limestone and Madison counties as its boundaries. At present there is a Republican majority in the Senate, with 11 of the 35 seats occupied by Democrats. One of the problems that Chris wants to tackle is getting better alignment between decision makers, municipal infrastructure, and businesses who are interested in either building in or relocating to North Alabama. Chris was one of those who worked on hammering out the deal that brought the Remington Company to our area, and wants to help Lauderdale County successfully enter a similar type of partnership with other potentially interested corporations. Below is a brief bio on Chris, followed by his statements as to why he feels he is the best man for the job. Chris served our country for 7 ½ years as an Air Force officer. His MOS, or job description, was logistics. Having lived in a combat zone, and observing first hand just what a daunting task it is to get everything from soap to Stinger missiles in country, I have great respect
The Seibert Family: Chris, Tiffany, Ben (L), and Brock (R). for his experience. His area of expertise was transportation, and prior to his commissioning as an officer, he played football for the University of Alabama, majoring in history and minoring in business. He attended
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‘Bama on a ROTC scholarship, and got his MBA from USA in Mobile. He was serving in the Azores during 9/11, and after getting out in ’05 with the rank of Captain, parlayed all of his experience from his years in college and overseas into becoming a successful regional medical device rep. He has since been promoted to a Regional Director and is responsible for sales as well as guiding the guys who are members of his team, and he teaches doctors how to successfully use robotic cardiac ablation catheters. His company, Stereotaxis (pronounced like taxes), is solidly behind his choice to run for the Senate seat. His wife’s name is Tiffany. They met as kids, dated in high school and now have two boys; Brock and Ben. Tiffany has been active as a wife and mom, as well as in the community as part of the Library Foundation, the Athena League, and the Athens-Limestone Hospital Foundation. She is also an entrepre-
neur; in 2013, she opened up Snapdragon Kids, a children’s clothing store located at 113 W. Washington St in Athens. Chris spends his spare time coaching baseball and soccer while he mentors his sons into what he hopes are the future leaders of Athens through athletics. He is a Sunday school teacher at 1st United Methodist, is a member of Rotary, and the Habitat for Humanity Board. The Seibert family lives in the Historical District of Athens, and as I sat in a rocker on the front porch for this interview, I watched as folks waved, stopped their cars, asked for yard signs and promised Chris their vote. It was refreshing, and a throwback to a simpler time and place. If you were to ask Chris why you should vote for him, here’s what he would say: •He has proven himself to be a moral and ethical man. •He has considerable leadership skills, many of which were gained at a young age. These range from being Captain of his high school football team, playing football for Alabama, to his military career where as a young man of 21 he was in charge of anywhere from 7 to 70 guys. In addition, he has learned much in his current career where he handles medical equipment sales and mentors reps from Florida to the West Coast. •He has extensive business experience as it pertains to both the public and private sector. In the military, he learned how to budget, on the City Council he has learned how to run government well, and as someone who has been a part of three startups (all of which are still running), he has learned how to make a business thrive. If these are qualities you are looking for in a State Senator, then Chris Seibert would ask you to cast your vote for him at the Primary on June 3rd.
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Clean and Green
Thanks To Elk River Cleanup Volunteers! by Lynne Hart
the shorelines. March 8 was a beautiful Saturday morning. The sun was shining, the water was glistening, the birds were singing. It was the perfect day to be at the river...fishing, boating, or just enjoying nature. 85 people took advantage of that beautiful morning, but chose to spend it in a way that may not have been very enjoyable to some. They came out to clean up trash and debris from the river and its surrounding land. Why? Because these good people understand the value of the Elk River to Limestone County. Our drinking water is drawn from that river. Residents enjoy fishing, boating, camping, and other outdoor activities in and around this river. It is a tremendous asset to our community and they understand that it needs protection. Volunteers spread out to four put-in spots including Hwy 99, Easter Ferry Rd., Hwy 127, and Elk River Mills. They also went to dump sites on Grigsby Ferry Rd. and Townsend Ford Rd. Others went out on canoes and kayaks (kayaks provided by Fort Hampton Outfitters), and the TVA boat looking for trash along
Some groups were registered in a contest sponsored by TVA to win cash for bringing in the most pounds of trash and debris. This was additional incentive for the groups to work hard! They hauled in roofing shingles, old tires, TVs, broken concrete, lots of plastic bottles and too many glass beer bottles. Volunteers not only lugged it all in, they helped place it on the scale to be weighed, then moved it all again into the trucks and trailers that would haul it off.
Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association. Teresa Todd, President of Tourism, said they were pleased that our volunteers were helping clean up one of the county’s tourist attractions. Winners of the group contest were: 1st Place ($250) - West Limestone Bass Fishing Club; 2nd Place ($150)
First place prize winners, West Limestone Bass Fishing Team river?
In the end, 8,800 pounds of trash and debris were removed from the area. Ben Harrison, District 4 Commissioner, brought two Athens High School Beta trucks and trailers to haul Club; and 3rd Place ($100) trash to the transfer station The River Otters. How does it get to the and both were completely loaded. Ruby McCartney, Plant Man- Steve and Kira Banks (7 years old) ager at the AthensLimestone Recycling Center, brought two trucks to haul recyclables. 1,000 pounds of the debris was sorted from the trash and recycled. After a hard morning’s work, the volunteers received lunch courtesy of the
Deliberate dumping and littering contribute debris to our waterways, as do non-deliberate actions. A piece of litter accidentally blowing out of your car or from your boat would be considered non-deliberate. When trashcans are knocked over by animals or the wind and debris is scattered by the wind and rain, although accidental, this also contributes to the trash that makes its way to our waterways. We must remember that whether deliberate or accidental, there is a person and a behavior behind every piece of litter and debris we find.
Keep litter bags in your vehicles to prevent litter from getting loose. Never throw loose trash in the bed of a truck and cover any load being carried. Make sure trashcan lids are secured and measures are taken to keep animals from scattering your trash. Handle fishing line and other sporting equipment responsibly. Dispose of cigarette butts properly. In short, just make yourself aware of how you handle your trash. To those who came out on a beautiful day and worked so hard, THANK YOU! To those who toss trash, fling beer bottles, and dump on our land, please consider the harm that is being done and STOP!
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(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com Page 12
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March 21 - April 3, 2014
Cooking with Shelley
Twisted Tuna by Shelley Underhill
In the past I have written about Twisted Chicken Salad, and it was a huge hit with our readers! To put a spin
on things, I was asked to come up with a similar version of the chicken salad recipe using tuna instead. I must say I don’t think I even came close. But what I can tell you is this: everyone that tried the tuna loved it. Hope you do to. If you try it, let me know what you think. You can email me at shelleysdesk@gmail.com Enjoy!
What you will need: 2 small cans of tuna - in water (drained well) 1 small yellow apple - chopped in small pieces 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1/4 cup pecan pieces 1/4 cup walnut pieces 1/2 cup Blue Plate Mayo Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning to taste Combine all ingredients together and mix well, chill for several hours.
March 21 - April 3, 2014
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Learning As A Lifestyle
“I Am Woman, Hear Me Roar!??” by Wanda Campbell
Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262
Editor’s Note:
The purpose of this article is to tell history as it happened. Although controversial people are mentioned, neither Wanda nor I endorse, support or recommend their philosophies other than to say there have been changes, some good, some bad. We choose to celebrate the good this month, want to be bold where there is iniquity, and pray for reconciliation between the genders as well as the healing of the family unit.
March is Women’s History month. Talking with my granddaughter, who wants to be an epidemiologist when she grows up, I realized there have been a lot of changes for women in my lifetime. When I was in the doll stage of my life the only thing I wanted was to grow up and have a family – four kids, a dog, a nice house and a husband. When I was a teen-ager, there were articles, news programs, books and marches saying “I am woman, hear me roar.” Helen Reddy wrote a song with that title in 1972. Today, I don’t hear much about the women’s movement, but I do see Dads more involved with children, and sometimes they are stay-at-home Dads doing housework and taking kids to doctors appointments and activities.
So what was the women’s movement? There are basically two stages to the women’s movement. The first is women’s suf-
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Yorker and co-founder of Ms Magazine. Shirley Chisholm was the first black congresswoman from New York in the House of Representatives. She served seven terms and ran for President in 1972. They all worked for social change and equality for women.
frage – the right to vote. The Suffrage Movement in this country began in 1840 with Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lucretia Mott, and Susan B Anthony. Anthony and Stanton drafted the legislation for women’s right to vote and Senator Aaron A. Sargent introduced it to the Senate in 1878. It was not until 1919 that it passed Congress and was sent to the states for ratification. It was ratified in August 1920. (www.archives.gov) The second was about gender equality – equal pay for equal work. Kenneth Walsh wrote, “In the 1960s, deep cultural changes were altering the role of women in American society. More females than ever were entering the paid workforce, and this increased the dissatisfaction among women regarding huge gender disparities in pay and advancement, and sexual harass-
ment at the workplace. (The 1960s: A Decade of Change for Women, Kenneth T. Walsh, www. USNews.com, March 10, 2010) In the 70s strong women were determined to have their voices heard and women’s liberation was the buzzword. Betty Friedan was elected the first President of National Organization of Women (NOW). Gloria Steinem was a writer for New
Shirley Chisholm www.athensnowal.com
There was even legislation in the 70’s, The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), proposed to guarantee women equal rights. It was originally written by Alice Paul, and submitted to Congress in 1923. It finally passed in 1972 and was sent to the states to ratify. It did not meet the minimum number of ratifications to become an amendment by the deadline in 1982. Its opponents saw the bill as redundant since we had the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment.
Today there are two competing sets of statistics regarding the pay gap. The Institute for Women’s Policy Research claims there is still a 77 cent difference between what men and women earn for the same work (http:// www.iwpr.org/initiatives/ pay-equity-and-discrimination). Breitbart and Christina Hoff Sommers, author of The War Against Boys, dispute that claim (http://www. breitbart.com/Big-Government/ 2014/03/17/77C e n t s - Wo r t h - o f - L i e s ; http://www.thedailybeast. com/articles/2014/02/01/ no-women-don-t-makeless-money-than-men. html). Sommers says that the gap has shrunk to 5 cents.
So, where do we go from here, and what can we celebrate? We can celebrate that in America, women have the freedom to develop their skills, make serious money, choose to stay home with their kids, and so much more. We can have the courage to look at what has been wrong, what is right, what needs to be balanced, and do our prayerful best to see to it that there is true “liberty and justice for all”-men, women and children. Happy Women’s History Month!
For a recommended reading list, call Wanda at the Center for Lifelong Reading- 256-233-8260.
March 21 - April 3, 2014
Health and Fitness
Bursitis by Janet Hunt
Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment. Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa. The bursa is a sac filled with lubricating (synovial) fluid. Healthy bursae rest at points where muscles and tendons slide across bones. Healthy bursae create a smooth gliding surface, which is painless. Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursae. Bursitis is often the result of repetitive, minor impact on the area, or from a sudden, more serious injury. Shoulders, elbows, hips and knees are the most commonly affected areas. Age also plays a role, as bursitis is more common in adults (especially in those over 40). Activities of almost any type that over use a joint, including gardening, carpentry, shoveling, raking, painting, scrubbing, tennis, golf, skiing, throwing and pitching can increase a person’s risk of developing bursitis. Incorrect posture and poor stretching technique before exercise can lead to bursitis as well. Stress or inflammation from other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis, thyroid disorders, or unusual medication reactions may also increase a person’s risk. Occasionally, infections can lead to inflammation of a bursa.
due to potential side effects from the injections and the possibility of masking a problem that needs to be treated differently. Physical therapy may also be recommended by a doctor, or, in very unusual cases, surgery.
•Student’s elbow – olecranon bursitis
•Icing the area the day of the injury
•Shoulder pain – subacromial bursitis
•Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen
•Achilles bursitis - often caused from too tight shoes •Weaver’s bottom – ischial bursitis •Iliopsoas bursitis •Pain at the inner knee – anserine bursitis The most common symptom of bursitis is pain. The pain may build up gradually or be sudden and severe. Bursitis can be treated in a number of ways, including: •Avoiding the activities that aggravate the problem •Resting the injured area
If symptoms persist, one should talk to their physician or primary care provider (PCP). A PCP may also prescribe stronger drugs to reduce the inflammation. They may recommend corticosteroids, also known simply as “steroids,” because they work quickly to decrease the inflammation and pain. Steroids can also be injected directly at the site of the injury. Injections are often, but not always, effective and can be repeated. Multiple injections in a several month period are usually avoided
Often tendonitis and bursitis are related. Inflammation does not have boundaries, and two closely approximated structures, such as a tendon and bursa, can become inflamed at the same time. That
is why the diagnoses “rotator cuff tendonitis” and “shoulder bursitis” are often used interchangeably. They are different problems, but closely related. And most importantly, the treatment of both problems is the same.
If you think you have bursitis, talk to you doctor before starting an exercise program. If you are already exercising, talk to your doctor about what exercises to continue and which to avoid.
For more information about exercise and bursitis, talk to your personal trainer or call Janet Hunt, certified personal trainer at 256-614-3530.
Citgo Touchless Car Wash
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Car Wash and Wax
$39.95
1404 US Hwy 72 E • Athens, AL 35611 256-221-5354 Mon-Sat 7 am-7pm • Sun 8-5:30
If It Don’t Shine, It Ain’t Mine!
Some common examples of bursitis are: •Housemaid’s knee - prepatellar bursitis •Clergyman’s knee - infrapatellar bursitis •Pain over the outside of the hip – trochanteric bursitis
March 21 - April 3, 2014
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Cover Story
Valley Pools of Athens and Madison: Where Pools Are A Passion! by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1
Before I tell you about the current promotions, I want to provide some details about the history of Valley Pools---a company that has provided years of outstanding customer service to the community. The owner and staff have decades of experience in the design, installation and maintenance for every aspect of the pool industry. And they are passionate about what they do! Valley Pools started in the 1980s and has grown to two locations and over 30 employees---a good
sign in this economy. They consider their employees ‘family’, which was evident as I visited the Madison store to conduct the interview. The owner, Ronny Hughes, built his first swimming pool in the 1970s, and has years of experience in all aspects of the construction industry. Bob Taylor is the Project Manager in charge of sales for both locations. I have had the opportunity to observe both the owner and Project Manager ‘in action’ at both locations and I like what I have seen. It is safe to say that pools are indeed their passion! The staff at Valley Pools continues to be excited about the popularity of
to serve you. Do you have an older pool that needs special attention or renovation? Call Valley Pools today to schedule an appointment so you can explore your makeover possibilities.
the saltwater conversion system and its high level of customer satisfaction. They have been installing saltwater conversion systems for the past 10 years and since then Valley Pools has installed over 1500 systems, more than any other pool company in the area. Ronny states, “The days of using chlorine are coming to an
Cody Reichert
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end because saltwater is superior in so many ways. Saltwater is the wave of the future.” The main advantages of the saltwater conversion system are the ease of pool maintenance, cost savings on chemicals and utilities, and the silky
feel of the pool water. Pool owners that have the saltwater conversion system installed with an automatic pool cleaner typically spend only 5- 10 minutes per week on pool maintenance. If you are a pool owner that is considering converting to salt water, Valley Pools is waiting
Valley Pools continues to do brisk business in building in-ground swimming pools. There are two basic types. The first is made of steel that is covered with an attractive vinyl liner. There are scores of liners to choose from in a variety of colors and patterns. The other type of in-ground pool installed by Valley Pools is the one-piece fiberglass pool. Valley Pools carries such well-known brands of fiberglass pools as Viking, Sun, San Juan, and Leisure. They have expert crews experienced in the installation of both types of pools. Do you want to “Go Green?” Valley Pools helps customers “Go and Save Green,” as in dollars, as well as, being more environmentally responsible by purchasing an amazing new pump made by Hayward Pool Products. It is called the Super Pump VS and brings, with its proper use, huge energy savings. Individual results are going to vary, but customers have experienced up to 80% savings on their pool
March 21 - April 3, 2014
eventually wear out so to kick off Spring, Valley Pools is having a huge sale on liners. They have promotional deals with bonus items as part of the liner sale. Please stop by to determine if replacing your pool liner qualifies you for one of their many “pool perks.�
Brennon Christopher related energy costs! Valley Pools is particular about the liners they sell to customers, and strongly endorses liners made in America. A potential customer came in looking for information
March 21 - April 3, 2014
on replacing her pool liner, and was provided with exactly the information she was looking for including options for what her budget allowed. Even top quality pool liners can
Another part of Valley Pools celebration of Spring is a promotion whereby if you purchase 3 items at regular price (chemicals and supplies), the fourth item (of equal or lesser value) is free. This offer cannot be combined with any other offers. As always, Valley Pools continues to offer their customers 20% off of all chemicals and supplies purchased on Thursdays. The Thursday 20% promotion has been one of their most popular programs. If you are a pool owner, Valley Pools encourages you to stop by and speak with Nancy, Store Manager at the Athens location, or Nikki, Store Manager at the Madison location.
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Let them show you how they can help you care for your pool with the highest quality supplies at competitive pricing. If you are considering having
a pool built for your home, let the team that has decades of experience demonstrate to you that truly, pools are their passion!
Athens
200 French Farms Boulevard, Suite C Athens, AL 35611 www.valleypoolsofmadison.com 256-771-2990 Hours for Athens: Mon-Fri 9:30-6, Sat 10-2
Madison
7467 US Hwy 72 Madison, AL 35758 256-536-8008 Hours for Madison: Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-1
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Visit smart.athens.edu to get started.
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March 21 - April 3, 2014
The View From The Bridge
Jackie Warner
I am the Boss and I said so. Now get to work! by Jackie Warner
Community Outreach “Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters
•Share relevant information. Give employees the information they need to perform in their positions
Does this sound familiar? Of course it does. All of us know someone who takes their leadership responsibilities overboard and allows it go to their head and therefore is really not leading at all. With leadership comes great responsibility and personal self-development. It involves more than just having the title. Leadership encompasses heart and a servant attitude. In today’s world of business, leading others takes special talents that one has to hone daily. When leaders acknowledge that they are not a one person island; they involve and value their team’s ideas and strengths, then and only then does authentic leadership qualities start to take root.
•Seek critical feedback for ongoing self-development from your team; Admit mistakes •Follow - Leading sometimes means stepping aside and allowing others to be the leader •Be available People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care. — John C. Maxwell Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional •Ask for and value feedback; be receptive to others’ suggestions and ideas; implement •Express genuine care and
concern for your team’s wins and losses •Recognize your need for the ones on your team- Let them know you appreciate
them •Stop jumping to conclusions; reflect and evaluate; situations are not always what they seem
Jackie Warner, Career Development Facilitator The Bridge “Where Community Matters”
True Leaders value Heart in their day to day and do not hog the spotlight; they are humble and passionate individuals who are deeply involved in the details of business and believe that every employee should be treated with respect and be given the opportunity to do meaningful work. – Leadership should be intentional; so how does one get there? •Communicate the Organization’s Vision, Goals, & Mission Statement •Display kindness and compassion for the growth and development of your team •Take time to know who is on your team- not just their names
March 21 - April 3, 2014
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Horse Whispering
Between A Rock And A Hard Place by Deb Kitchenmaster As I write this article, I am on a plane, on my way to Colorado Springs, CO. One of our grandsons is marching in his first parade as one of the drummers in his school band. A couple of weeks ago, his older brother took first at a regional through his school’s forensics solar speech competition, and is going to Denver, CO to compete at a state level. One grandson is all about rhythm and the other is all about communication/language, which leads me to another Horse Whispering Article. It’s one thing to see that people are different. However, do we also understand, and are we willing to accept that horses are also? What works for one may not work for another. Have you met some people who enter the room with their mouth first? Oh, they are so full of high energy, talkative, making jokes and loud? Others are quiet, reserved, and need some quiet time, alone. Some people are quicker to bond than others. So it is with horses. Some horses are right out there! “Hey! Let’s play! What’s next? Do we have to do the same ole thing again? How about something new and fresh?” By contrast, some horses get overwhelmed because we push them too fast and hard. These horses need us to slow down, be more deliberate and allow them time to process it all! Sometimes these horses can appear to be detached or uninterested, while in reality they are more introverted in nature and need time allowance. Once a human connects with this type of horse and builds a relationship, you will discover a friend that will give you their
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peoples’ unawareness of their personality, their learning curve and their emotional state. This is what I call BETWEEN A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE. Our relationship with our horse is “squished” when we are unaware, unwilling or uneducated in the whole horse, i.e., personality,
attention, and help you live a more balanced life. The key to unlock and enjoy a relationship with an introverted horse is to be gentle. How many times have you heard the statements, “That horse is crazy”; “That horse isn’t safe to be around”; or “You need to get rid of that horse?” Many times these statements are based on experiences, observations and opinions about a particular horse. Did anyone stop and consider the possibility that this particular horse may NOT be any of the above, but rather an extremely sensitive horse? Or do “sensitive” and “horse” not fit in the same sentence? What if the truth was that a human was in the presence of an extremely sensitive horse? Sure, there will be some challenges in the training of this horse, but if this horse is understood, a building of confidence can be achieved to the point that even a human paralyzed from the waist down could move this horse through the disciplines of walk, trot and canter. Think about it. I have met a few of these “super sensitive” horses personally, and some I have read about.
learning curve and emotional makeup.
Some ways to deal with emotions that arise in your horse are to get him to move his feet. Whether ground work or riding, please dismount
personalities and learning skills, but we also are emotional. Horses are too! Because horses are prey animals they have an inner wiring to be aware or sensitive to danger. A horse’s number one emotion is fear. However, horses can become frustrated, irritated and annoyed with humans because of
when the thought comes to you to do so, regardless of who is around. Ride forward in tiny circles until your horse slows down on his own accord, and be more patient and consistent.
Good News: Get to know your horse’s personality; answer the question “Is your horse a quick learner, or does your horse need time to process?”And when emotions arise, assess what’s up with your horse and deal with it in a network of safety for you and your horse. Happy Spring! Your NEIGHbor, Deb Kitchenmaster Corral Connections: Connecting with LIFE through a horse Animal B.E.S.T practitioner dkitchenmaster@mchsi.com
As with the grandsons, not only are we different in our
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March 21 - April 3, 2014
Athens Rehabilitation And Senior Care Center Spotlight On Mr. Mark Stinnett by Ali Elizabeth Turner 52-year-old Mark Stinnett is one of the younger residents at Athens Rehabilitation and Senior Care, located right across the street from Athens Limestone Hospital. His mind is like a steel trap, but as a young man his body began to fight with him slowly until he ended up in a wheelchair at the age of 37. He had dreams of being a “Top Gun” US Naval fighter pilot, but the combination of scoliosis, cerebral
palsy and multiple sclerosis brought those dreams to an end. Mark is a graduate of East Limestone High School, and before he became wheelchair bound he worked at Jiffy’s, Food World, and Quincy’s Steak House, (now HG Grill). “I knew my body was slowing down,” he told me, “but it took them awhile to find out what was wrong.” He loved sports, and went out for foot-
ball in High School, but he knew something was wrong then. His body just wouldn’t move as quickly as it needed to. He also drag raced for five years, and I am glad he has those memories. His eyes twinkle when he talks about them. He arrived at Athens Rehab in August of 2013, and since then has built a reputation of being quite good at playing Rook, which apparently
is easy to learn, but difficult to master. Fellow “Spotlighters” Ruth Truett and Mary Johns apparently give Mark a run for his money when it comes to playing it. They are the queens, but he is the undisputed “King of Rook.” He also enjoys “chicken foot” dominoes, a type of domino game about which I had never heard before, (again, somewhat complicated,) as well as Uno and other card games, but Rook is his favorite. What’s his favorite color? “Red.” What’s his favorite food? “Anything Mexican.” Who is his favorite President? “Jimmy Carter.” Who is his favorite actor? “I’m a big fan of Clint Eastwood, and my favorite movie of his is ‘Hang ‘Em High.’” The biggest change that has occurred in your lifetime? “How Athens has changed, the geography and the use of the land.” He told me about what the land on Highway 31 looked like before Athens
March 21 - April 3, 2014
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High School was built, and other places.
His favorite caregiver at Athens Rehab and Senior Care Center is Sarah, and Lakeisha, who is the Activities Director, and Mark joke around a lot.
As the picture of Mark indicates, we are in the Lenten season, and he is enjoying wearing his “Fat Tuesday” beads. Athens Rehab had a grand Mardi Gras celebration, with all of the residents joining in a parade that started in one end of the building to the other, ending up in the main dining room. They had masks, and a traditional king cake, and the person who found the ring in their king cake was Paula Carter.
He grew up fellowshipping at Eastside Church of Christ, and his advice to young people is, “Enjoy your health, walking, speech. Enjoy life, and don’t take anything for granted.” Good words from a man who knows from experience, Mr. Mark Stinnett of Athens Rehab and Senior Center.
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Medical Update
House Bill 601- Home Birth Safety Act By Rachel Clark, RN, BSN It is an exciting time in Alabama for women who want the option of having a home birth attended by a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM). Two events occurring in the last two weeks are important steps toward making that hope a reality. Two weeks ago, I attended a meeting hosted by the Huntsville chapter of ICAN (International Cesarean Awareness Network). We heard four midwives from surrounding areas answer questions regarding out of hospital birth options for women in North Alabama. All 4 were Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) who often see clients from Alabama who birth in Tennessee. These mothers are willing to travel across state lines for midwifery care. Multiple topics were addressed in the panel discussion, and approximately 50 women attended.
does not make home birth safer. It actually increases the risks to moms and babies.” Many concerned Alabamians echo Chloe’s cries for decriminalization of CPMs; Karen Gable, a mother and grandmother in Cullman calls for women to have a choice and the right to have a midwife attend births without fear of prosecution in an interview with CBS Channel 42 in Montgomery. In an interview with the Times Daily in January, Governor Bentley said he isn’t opposed to the North AL lawmakers’ efforts to legalize midwifery as long as some rules are in place. Governor Bentley is a retired physician and knows how quickly things can go bad when emergencies go unrecognized. He also said, “I feel that midwives that at least have the proper training, that have backup so that if there are any problems, they could get the mother-in those 1
or 2 percent of birthsto the hospital quickly, (then) I have no problems with that.” It is legal for Alabama mothers to choose home birth. It is NOT legal for a licensed, nationally credentialed professional to attend and assist during birth. As explained in a previous article on the subject of midwifery, the Alabama Birth Coalition and Alabama Midwives’ Alliance have been hard at work for the last 11 years trying to legalize midwifery in out-ofhospital settings, as it once was, by licensing CPMs. It was made illegal with the passage of the nursemidwifery law in 1976 and midwives have risked prosecution for attending births at home ever since. In the public hearing, Representative Hubbard told
the story of a 22 year-old first time mother who went into pre-term labor while on shift at McDonald’s. She went to the bathroom and another employee, the fry cook, came to help after telling someone to call 911. She was viewed as a hero for helping the mother deliver her baby. He said that if a midwife had been in the restaurant at that time
and went to assist with that birth, she would have done so under the threat of criminal prosecution. It is absurd that Alabama law singles out and criminalizes midwives for simply doing their job. After the hearing this morning, Representative Hubbard posted the following quote on his Facebook page: “Thanks to all the good midwives of Alabama who showed up today for the public hearing on HB601. We should be prosecuting the real criminals, not trained and certified professionals who protect the health and safety of mothers and babies.” Please call your Representative today and ask him or her to support HB601 by telling Health Committee members that constituents need this bill to pass.
This week, the House Health Committee held a public hearing on HB601 on March 19 in Montgomery. Representative Joe Hubbard (D-Montgomery) is the sponsor. A similar bill, SB99, sponsored by Senator Paul Bussman (R-Cullman), was heard in February in the Senate Judiciary committee. It was defeated when Representative Bryan Taylor (R-Prattville) moved to table the bill and the majority agreed. North Alabama CPM Chloe Raum said, “Mothers are going to keep having babies. One-size-fitsall hospital birth does not meet every mother’s needs. The current law
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Representative Joe Hubbard, addressing House Health Committee at the Public Hearing of HB 601 on March 19 - Photo courtesy of Kristin Bryan of By Him, For Him Photography
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March 21 - April 3, 2014
Security Savvy
How Secure Do You Really Feel in Today’s World? by Jim Doyle, owner of Madison Security Group 203 Us Highway 31 S, Athens, AL 35611 or is the common person being watched? Remember the book “1984?” Big Brother is already watching and the government makes it legal. The Constitution is slowly being rewritten to accommodate the whims of each new president. Explain this. We hear that crime is increasing on our streets so we blame it on guns; it has become more difficult to get guns today than 10 years ago, yet violence is increasing. So the proposed solution: more gun control. This way a responsible person will not be able to have a gun but the criminals will. Of course, the more responsible element will register their firearm, but criminals will not.
In this country, we have so many police organizations they trip over each other, yet our streets don’t seem any safer. What is going on? We have a government that can’t be trusted to tell us the truth. It seems the “government for the people, by the people” has changed to the government by the government. People do not actually elect the president, (the Electoral College of Congress does,) so the party with the most electoral votes wins.
We are a culture that makes excuses; our students are graduating from high school and college, yet still cannot make change or communicate coherently. Therefore, we blame the teachers or the school board, yet nothing changes. Now the schools want to be able to opt out of core curriculum.
Our police are at the mercy of lawyers. They make an arrest and before we know it the person is back out on street. The criminal element realizes that the court system is on their side. It amazes me that when there is a crime committed, witnessed, and even caught on video, the more heinous it is the more we drag out the court case. I believe that way people can get there 15 minutes of fame on the big screen TV. Justice is secondary.
Really, we as a people deserve to be safe and secure in this Unites states. We should believe that the government is looking out for the common person. That is not the way it is coming across. We have the NSA (National Security Agency), the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security,
March 21 - April 3, 2014
It bothers me that the people of this country really do not have a say when Governthe CIA (Central Intelligence Agency), Federal Police, Capitol Police, State Police, City Police, County Police, Sheriff’s Department, (and the list goes on and on), and we still have problems with crime. One answer is to start putting more surveillance cameras throughout cities, and now there is talk about using drones. Where is this all going? Is this all for our safety
ment decides to pass a law forcing it on the American people (Obama Care is one example). If you do not sign up for health insurance, the IRS will punish you by making you pay a fine. I do not feel safe hearing this. I have no control over my own health or finances.
We as a country have lost our place in the schoolyard. We have been and still are being bullied by other countries knowing that we as a nation don’t stand up for what we used to believe in, that all men are not treated equally. We have always made a stand for those oppressed. That is what has made this country strong and respected. As a nation, we are now the oppressed. To feel secure and safe you would hope that the government would be aware of the burden it puts on the people of the United States when it decides to spend money it does not have, the answer is tax the people. I really love this country there are good hard-working people here but I believe the road we are traveling is going to be very costly to both our safety and personal security.
As always, stay safe and aware.
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