May 1 - May 14, 2015
AthensNowal.com E-MAIL: info@athensnowal.com ADVERTISING: Ali: 256-468-9425 Deborah: 256-309-9399
Spring Into Your Summer Body
See Our Listings Inside this edition... Pages 25 - 32
Special Feature New Beginnings Salon And Trading Post: Spring With A Touch Of Serendipity... Back in December, I had great fun introducing the Athens Now community to... Page 7
Limestone Sheriff’s Rodeo
By Jonathan Henderson SportsFit is giving people an opportunity to spring forward into their summer bodies as they host their annual spring FitFest May 11th and 12th.
Their locations in Athens, Decatur, and Hayden will welcome community and gym members, and people of all ages to experience the free, fun-filled event! They will introduce all participants to the classes that they offer on a weekly basis and can be tak-
Are You Ready For The Rodeo?... More than thirty years ago, a novel fundraising idea was born in Limestone County which was inspired by two things: Sheriff Mike Blakely’s lifelong love for everything... Page 8
Special Feature Sunset Swim Club: Ready For The 2015 Swim Season... Spring is here and summer is just around the corner as Angelo and Vincent Azzarello, owners of Sunset Swim Club are busily gearing up for a fantastic... Page 11
growchurch C OMING
SOON TO
A THENS /L IMESTONE
www.growchurch.com May 1 - May 14, 2015
Join us May 17th
@5:00 pm for a popcorn party! Find out how you can
#growyourlife
Email info@growchurch.com for location and more information!
FULFILL YOUR CALLING. www.athensnowal.com
Continued on pages 16-17
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May 1 - May 14, 2015
Publisher’s Point Publisher / Editor Ali Turner
Sales
Deborah Huff
Why Should We Stand Together?
Graphic Design
Jonathan Hamilton
Web Design Teddy Wolcott
Delivery
Hunter Williams
Contributing Writers Shelley Underhill Wanda Campbell Janet Hunt Joel Allen Lynne Hart Rachel Clark, RN, BSN Mary Kate Holladay Teresa Todd Jerry Barksdale Deborah Huff Jonathan Henderson
Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 The Gen Y Perspective . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 6 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 7 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 8 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 11 Clean and Green . . . . . . . . 12 Cooking with Shelley . . . . . . 13 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 14 Cover Story . . . . . . . . . . 16-17 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . 18 Jerry’s Journal . . . . . . . 19 Dog Barker . . . . . . . . . 20 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 21 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22
May 1 - May 14, 2015
Athens is a town with an uncommonly positive spirit, something that is rare these days. I don’t mean to go all “Pollyanna” on you, because we do have real problems that need real solutions. However, a trend is returning to our nation that I haven’t seen for close to 50 years, and that is, especially in the past year, law enforcement officers who protect us are now having to do what soldiers do when they deploy: kiss their families goodbye, with everyone facing the real possibility that Daddy or Mommy may not come home. And, I might add, they have to do it afresh each morning when they leave for work. This is something that police officers sign on to do when they are sworn in. However, as someone who used to think of police as porcine, and soldiers as baby killers, I am all too familiar with what happens when people vilify first responders, and the damage it does to the accusers as well as the accused. It is what causes cultures to unravel, and that’s why we must stand together. Baltimore is still on fire, Ferguson has been so at least twice in the past year, New York City cops have been executed while eating a meal in their car, and rival gangs have decided to bury the hatchet, join forces, and
go after the cops. While all of this is cause for grave concern, what I am about to tell you is why I love being an Athenian. A project is underway, the brain child of local author and Athens Now columnist, Jerry Barksdale. It is called “Together We Stand,” and the desire is simple: show the thin blue and thin brown line that we support them by throwing them a party. More precisely, it will be a dinner held in the Limestone County Event Center on June 12th at 6:30 pm. Jackie Greenhaw is putting together a show to entertain the officers and spouses that are attending, and fundraising is underway so that the law enforcement officers can be the dinner guests of the citizens of Athens Limestone County. The details are still being finalized, and soon posters will be seen throughout the city advertising the dinner, and giving the public the chance to donate, volunteer, and make this evening memorable. There has even been a song written to commemorate the evening, and what is
ing a blue light at night time while our police are keeping you safe. At our house, we took a Christmas electric candelabra and switched out the clear lights for blue ones. I am hoping that eventually everyone on our street will follow suit, because I want our block, our town, county, state and nation to say thank
hoped is that it will become the anthem of what becomes a movement. This summer the guests of honor will be law enforcement, 2016 will be firefighters, and 2017 emergency medical personnel and those support personnel who make it possible for them to do their job. Whether or not you involve yourself with the organization or the dinner, there is a way to show solidarity with “our boys (and girls) in blue,” (or brown). You can signal your support by burn-
you, come together, and defy the haters through the use of something far stronger, and that is love and gratitude. Won’t you join us?
For more information on the organization, its mission, and how to help, go to togetherwestandal. com
Ali Elizabeth Turner Athens Now Information & Inspiration 256-468-9425 ali@athensnowal.com Website: www.athensnowal.com
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All Things Soldier
The National Guard Deserves To Nosh
by Ali Elizabeth Turner
It is the 29th of April as I write this, and Baltimore, the place where our national anthem was written, is reeling from riots. The reason is that a drug dealer died while in police custody, and so the thoughtful response has been to loot stores. The logic of that kind of behavior being called “protest” escapes me, but as this column is about and for soldiers, I’ll leave it behind for now and move toward talking about some of my favorite people on
the planet, the National Guard. When I was in Iraq, the NG, as they were called, were attached to various regular Army Units, and as the NG was brought in from all 50 states, you had everything from the Island Boys from the Hawaiian 399th, to the New York State Fighting 69th, largely hailing from New York City. I think you can imagine the culture, the camaraderie, and the humor. In addition, all of these guys (and a few
gals) took desert training before they came to protect us, and were a very important part of the war. I will always owe them for all they do to keep me free. So, you can be sure I was more than thrilled about the fact that two Baltimore area Whole Foods Stores, out of the goodness of their hearts, pooled their resources in order to make sandwiches for the Maryland National Guard as the NG has been on duty protecting the people of Baltimore. As is the case so often these days, the slightest activity ends up being posted on Facebook, and here is what was said: Whole Foods Market Harbor East “We teamed up with Whole Foods Market Mt. Washington to make sand-
Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)
wiches for the men and women keeping Baltimore safe. We are so thankful to have them here, and they’re pumped for turkey & cheese.” Sounds like something positive right out of a Morale, Welfare, and Recreation training manual, and then the naysayers began their negative rant in regard to the noshing NGs: “I spent my last money with Whole Foods last night. What you are doing is unconscionable.” “As Baltimore’s poorest kids are left hungry due to school closure, (no school lunch,) Whole Foods feeds the oppressor.”
$7
May 19th
11am - 1pm and 5pm-7pm
17915 W Elm St • Athens, Alabama • 256-232-0029 Page 4
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“The stunt Whole Foods in Baltimore pulled today opened my eyes. I used to love Whole Foods, but I can’t support the company anymore. #Bye” Are you kidding me? “Unconscionable?” “Feeding the oppressor?” “Stunt?” Were these soldiers the
guys who set things on fire and put 15 cops in the hospital?
Thankfully, there were those who voiced their support, and they are the kinds of folks whose positive thanks goes far when soldiers are putting their lives on the line:
“Thank you Whole Foods and Five Guys for supporting the National Guard. They didn’t ask to leave their families to enforce basic civility!” “Thank you Whole Foods for taking care of our boys in blue & the National Guard. I know where I’m shopping!” “Thank you Whole Foods for serving lunch to National Guard in Baltimore today. You have my support.” Thankfully, Whole Foods is not backing down for feeding the troops, and I for one am thankful for their spine. The NG deserves to nosh.
May 1 - May 14, 2015
The Gen Y Perspective
Are You A Person Or A Party? by Mary Kate Holladay
Lately, as I have done my daily scrolls through Facebook, I’ve noticed a new trend among people my age that involves posting articles and quizzes about politics. Most of these articles, though, are incredibly biased to one party or another. Rather than researching and becoming informed citizens, it seems like most of my Facebook friends who are participating in this trend are letting Southern tradition or pop culture dictate their mentality. While I think it is exciting that it is now my generation’s turn to get involved in our nation’s political sysntem, I feel that many of emy peers are taking the wrong approach. eTo those who identifying rthemselves as staunch eRepublicans or Demo-crats, I pose these questions: Do you know exractly what they party you are so invested in stands sfor? If so, are you ready live by the principles set lby the party? Also, do you obelieve that everything -the other group stands for is completely wrong?
May 1 - May 14, 2015
I have a feeling that, if answered honestly, most people would say no to most of these questions. We are entering a very pivotal time in our lives. We finally get to take part in fixing the political system that our parents and other adults have complained about our entire lives. So, why would we let our parents’ thoughts and feelings, societal pressure, or any other will of those who have come before us influence the decisions that we make? Yes, I will concede that we should respect our parents’ thoughts and maintain the morality that we were raised with, but our parents and those who raised us are part of the generation that helped create this “broken political system.” In our lives, we have seen partisan tendencies of American citizens tear this nation apart. This is our time to come together and let reason drive this nation. We should not cling to one party or another and cause more animosity; we should strive to be good citizens
and try to understand one another’s points of views. For every hypothetical or real incident one party can bring up to shame the other, there is one for the other party to use in return. There is no way to make America perfect or to have everyone agree on everything, but there has to be a better way to handle things than what we have now.
lems in our nation. Also, to those who are still in high school or will be soon, pay attention in history class and observe the mistakes Americans have made in the past so that we can help prevent making them again in the future. Most of all, I chal-
lenge you to take time to discover who you are and what you believe in. This way, our generation has more victories than mistakes go down in history and we can prove to our parents that we aren’t the half-wits they think we are.
So, I would like to challenge all of my Facebook friends to replace these posts bashing one political party or the other with posts that could actually help solve prob-
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Calendar of Events
4th Annual City of Athens Relay for Life Bass Fishing Tournament May 9th
US Postal Workers Food Drive May 9th
Athens Limestone Emergency Food and Shelter, located at 20086 Swanner Boulevard, in Tanner is sponsoring a food drive in connection with US Postal Workers on May 9th, 2015. ALFS serves 200-300 families per month. For more information, contact Laura Aldridge, Director, at 256-230-6311. Or, you can email them at alfs@ hiwaay.net. Hours Mon-Fri 9am-noon, Tues & Thurs 1-2:30pm.
Ingalls Harbor 701 Market Street NW, Decatur, AL 35601 Anglers are invited to head out on the waters in search biggest bass from safe light until 3:00PM. Lunch will be provided to registered boaters. For registration: www.active.com/decatur-al/other-endurance/cityof-athens-4th-annual-relay-for-life-bass-fishing-tournament-2015
2nd Annual 4-H Open Car and Truck Show May 2, 2015
Athens State Alumni Association Golf Classic May 14th
Limestone County 4-H car show open to all muscle cars, classic cars, and trucks. May 2, 2015 in Tractor Supply’s parking lot from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. $10 admission. Door prizes and a 50/50 raffle. Lunch meals will be available for $5 (hotdogs/burgers, chips, drink, and cookie included). All proceeds go to the 4-H Paper Clover Campaign. For more information call the Limestone County Extension Office: 256232-5510 or email Lisa Towe: lat0014@aces.edu or Marian Beck: mclinmr@auburn.edu
Limestone County Sheriff’s Rodeo Parade May 9th
12:00PM Lineup, 1:00PM kickoff. Line-up starts the Limestone Sheriff’s Arena on Alabama Highway 99 (AL-99), Athens, AL. Groups and individual participants welcome. No fee to participate Grand Marshals will lead the way for the parade featuring Queen Contestants, Cowgirls and Cowboys of all ages on horseback along with many buggies and wagons. The route will depart the arena onto Alabama Highway 99/Market Street to the Limestone County Courthouse, turn left (north) on Jefferson Street to Elm Street, then left (west) on Elm Street and return to the arena. For more information: www.limestonesheriffrodeo.com
Chick-Fil-A Connect Race Series May 9th
Athens, AL. Join Chick-Fil-A for 5K and 10K on a USATF Certified course benefiting Bridges of Hope Adoption Ministry. Children 12 and under can enjoy the Family FunZone from 7:00-10:00AM packed with activites and inflatables as they wait for friends and family to cross the finish line. For more information or to register: cfaraceseries.com/races/148/
The Flashbacks Dinner Show May 9th
Yesterday’s Event Center. 15631 Brownsferry Road, Athens, AL. Come enjoy the sounds of The Flashbacks performing your favorites from the ‘70s and ‘80s. Complete country dinner available including drink and dessert for additional $9.95. Show admission is $15.00 and E-mail reservation is required. All seats reserved and not attended are subject to a fee of 50% of the ticket price if not canceled with notice 48-hours prior to show and will be billed to reserving individual. Doors open at 6:00PM, dinner available from 6:00PM-7:00PM, showtime 7:00PM. To reserve your seats: info@ yesterdaysevents.com
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Canebrake Golf Club 23015 Founders Circle, Athens, AL 35613 Shotgun start at 1:00PM Four person teams are TBA and includes lunch, green fees, golf car, course refreshment, hospitality gifts and prizes. For more information or to request registration forms contact the Office of Alumni Affairs at 256-233-8185 or alumni@athens.edu or www.myathens.info/golf-classic/
Athens State University Homecoming 2015 May 14th
Dinner and dancing with 2nd Coming Band. Athens State University, Sandridge Student Center Ballroom, 300 North Beaty Street, Athens, AL. Join the Athens State Alumni Association for this Homecoming 2015 event starting at 7:00PM. Cash bar available. Cost is $30.00 per person. For more information contact the Office of Alumni Affairs at 256-233-8185 or alumni@athens.edu. To reserve your slot for this event: www.eventzilla.net/web/event_ext.aspx?EventID=2139076436
5th Annual Spencer Black 5K Run/Walk and 1-Mile Fun Run May 16th
Blue Springs Elementary. 16787 Hardy Road, Athens, AL. 8:30AM. Come join the race to benefit Clements High School and Blue Spring Elementary School fitness programs and facilities. For more info, signup for runners notice or to make a donation, please contact Gary Van Wagnen 314-409-5102 or email garyvanwagnen@aol.com
Alabama Wildlife Federation Wildgame Cookoff May 19th
Athens, AL. Wildgame Cookers will come together to compete in the categories of fish, fowl and game. Cookers registration is free. Ticket price includes complimentary food and 1 year AWF Membership. Information: Greg Lambert - 256-998-0057 or AWF Headquarters 1-800-822-9453
Senior Lunch Matinée Show with Replay May 21st
Yesterday’s Event Center. 15631 Brownsferry Road, Athens, AL. Come enjoy the sounds of Replay oldies group. Cost is $10.00 and includes lunch, drink and dessert. Groups welcome. Events begins 11:00AM - Seating, Opening, Announcements, Blessing, Lunch with the show kicking off at 12:00PM. Cancellation policy applies. RSVP required: info@yesterdaysevents.com
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May 1 - May 14, 2015
Special Feature
New Beginnings Salon And Trading Post: Spring With A Touch Of Serendipity by Ali Elizabeth Turner Back in December, I had great fun introducing the Athens Now community to New Beginnings Salon and Trading Post, and ever since have enjoyed getting to know the owners, Cindy McCurry and Toni Lea. Truly, every time I have gone into the shop to deliver the latest edition of the paper, they have done something new, whimsical, clever, humorous, or just plain classy to the place or the products. Spring is traditionally a time when that which could be labeled “serendipity” shows up everywhere, if for no other reason than life has begun anew. The definition of “serendipity” is the occurrence and development of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way. However, the creative energy between these two friends only makes it look like this has “happened by chance.” Believe me, these gals know what they are doing, and they both work hard at running the salon, repurposing items, developing new product lines, and loving their families. When I sat down between them at the lovely antique table just outside the workroom in the back of the shop, they took off and brainstormed about what their next project will look like, or how they’ll maybe “try this,” or “experiment with that.” I was happy to listen to their creative banter, ask questions, and watch as yet another sad, discarded item was lined up for its own “new beginning.” The first thing they did to
May 1 - May 14, 2015
“Modern Romance.” It is going to be “frilly yet classic, and tailored,” they told me, and I am looking forward to seeing how two ideas that almost seem to be at odds with each other will come together. However, I know from experience that if anyone can pull that off, Cindy and Toni can.
give you an idea of what is waiting for you inside. Whether you are going to the salon, or looking for that unique item for your home or office, a visual feast awaits you before you even get past the door. Memorial Day is coming, and the entrance is going to change again in honor of remembering those troops who have fallen in service to our country. The door is going to sport a vintage show how skilled they are at “posh re-purposing” is show me the new shop sign out in the yard. “It took awhile to get it just right,” they said, and their efforts, along with the help of Toni’s husband, Chris, captured the essence of the place handsomely.
being renewed. They then told me about several new additions to the New Beginnings Salon and Trading Post that will be making their debut closer to fall. One is their own line of chalk paint, which is in the last stages of development. “I have tweaked my own recipe,” says Toni, “and I
One of the things they do often is repaint the outside door to reflect the season. Right now it looks like spring, all decked out in flag, and I’ll leave the rest as a surprise. Cindy told me that right now they are putting together several pots and planters for spring, all of which will be rustic.
several pastels. Because of their skill with chalk paint, they can take a few minutes, paint the door, and use their lovingly restored items carefully placed on either side to
“We still are taking orders for custom items,” Toni told me, and then took me to see her next project: a Deco-era wardrobe with 3 drawers, 2 doors, and what will be a full length mirror. As she told me about her plans, she added, “I am going to keep the original character of this piece.” I was glad to hear it, as sometimes I have seen items “lose their soul,” or original charm and substance, in the process of
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Lastly, Cindy and Toni are looking to add to the salon staff, and in addition to being skilled in your craft, you need to be a people person and have a sense of humor, ‘cuz that is just their “vibe.” New Beginnings has long been the stomping grounds of Debbie Lambert, who has twice cut my hair to give away to cancer patients, and years ago gave me an amazing facial massage that made me want to stay in her chair for the rest of the day! Debbie also does full body waxes. Cindy said, “We have a position open for a hair dresser, you can have your own room, and can decorate to suit your style. We are also looking for a manicurist,” she added. I’ll tell you, if I had those skills, I would beat feet to the salon and join their team, but for now, I shall remain a more-thanhappy customer of New Beginnings Salon and Trading Post.
New Beginnings
am really pleased with how it is coming out.” She took me to a vanity that had been done with her personal recipe, and I marveled, remembering how it looked when she first got it.
(next to Clark’s Restaurant, across from Cracker Barrel)
They are also adding a clothing line that they described as
Hours: Tue-Fri 9-5, Sat 9-2
Salon & Trading Post 1221 Kelli Drive #C Athens, AL 35613 256-230-1044
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Special Feature
Are You Ready For The Rodeo? by Ali Elizabeth Turner More than thirty years ago, a novel fundraising idea was born in Limestone County which was inspired by two things: Sheriff Mike Blakely’s lifelong love for everything that goes on in a rodeo, and the need to find a way to raise funds for new equipment. Sheriff Mike found himself in a challenging spot. He took office in the middle of a term, and the budget for everything was already set in stone. The County Commissioners wanted to help out by granting funds to take care of immediate needs, but no money could be released until the beginning of the next fiscal year. The patrol car out of the entire fleet that was in the best shape had over 260,000 miles on it, and, undaunted, Sheriff Mike set out to find a solution. Perhaps providentially, soon after the Commissioners had to deliver their bad financial news, Sheriff Mike was contacted by Lone Star Rodeo Company, and they, too, had a need. Their representative, Preston Fowlkes, was looking for someone who would be interested in helping to sponsor a local rodeo. The joint venture has gone on to make history, and to create a lot of fun for the folks of our county and beyond in the process. That was a third of a century ago, and here is some of what has been accomplished. 34 patrol cars have been purchased, loaded with the latest “bad-guy-catching” technology. Much of the cost of the helicopter has been covered. Having unintentionally found myself in a situation where the chopper was deployed, and the bad guy was then quickly found, I am personally glad we have it. I am even happier that the rodeo has helped to pay for it, and not the taxpay-
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RODEO WEEK EVENTS Saturday, May 9 Parade - 2pm Sheriff Blakely will lead the 33rd Annual Rodeo Parade, featuring Queen Contestants, & Cowgirls and Cowboys of all ages on horseback along with many buggies & wagons. Monday, May 11 Preston’s Rodeo Kickoff 5:00 P.M. Preston’s Western & Outdoor Wear. Highway 72 & I-65 in Athens. Kid’s Day, Horseback Rides. All Free Fun Tuesday, May 12 Sarrell Dental Street Dance 6:00 P.M. Limestone County Courthouse Square. Live Band, Line Dancing, Western Fashion Show. Music provided by the “JEFF WHITLOW COUNTRY” band.
Sheriff Blakely and his grandson, Ben rade, and more. In terms of putting us “on the map,” the Limestone County Sheriff’s Rodeo has garnered several tourism-related awards. It was voted “Rodeo of the Year” during the Lone Star National Finals Rodeo held in Huntsville at the Von Braun Civic Rodeo Queen Kalynn Clinard Center. Once again, it has been chosen as one of the ers. There is now money for top 20 events in the Southeast. special training, special equipment, and upgrading the skills While this is not an award, our rodeo happens to be the largest of the response team. outdoor event east of the MisIn regard to the arena itself, sissippi. the rodeo has made it possible to purchase the land, build the The Sheriff’s Rodeo has given facility, and all of it is used 12 out sizeable cash prizes to ridmonths of the year for all man- ers who have faced down literal ner of civic events. Teresa Todd, tons of equine and bovine rage, of Athens Limestone County and then lived to tell the tale. Tourism Association, explains As the event has grown, comthe economic impact of the Ro- petitors from the top echelon deo on our region in her article of the rodeo world have comfound on page 10. Our hotels peted here. This year’s purse is fill up, our restaurants are busy, worth $50,000. and so many of the other spe- So, why is the question, “Are cial attractions in the area are You Ready For The Rodeo?” visited. A previous article pub- even being asked in the first lished in Athens Now described place? Because in order for you in detail the various aspects of to get the most out of the rodeo, the Special Needs Rodeo, the more is involved than buying Slack Rodeo, the Queen’s Con- tickets, getting the kids in the test, the street dance, the pa- car, and showing up on time. I
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would like to suggest that here is an example of the truth that it is more blessed to give than it is to receive, and extend the invitation to get involved. The fact is, our rodeo does more than buy crucial-yet-inanimate objects such as patrol cars; our rodeo changes lives. The everyday people who have gotten involved with the Special Needs community as it interfaces with the rodeo fully understand that they end up more blessed by being a blessing to these kids. Just ask Paul Cain. The people who work the Queen’s Contest know this is about way more than poise or perfectly styled hair, or even excellent horsemanship. Just ask Debbie Blakely. This is about bringing forth the beauty that is within as well as without, and preparing to live life well in service to others, long after outward beauty has lost its power. The Limestone County Sheriff’s Rodeo is about originally coming together to solve a problem, and ending up building a community. That’s why you need to get ready, and once again, you are in for a treat at “The Greatest Show On Dirt!”
Thursday, May 14 Slack All team roping contestants will compete during the designated slack on this date. 9:00 A.M. Admission $5.00 Thursday, May 14 IHOP Restaurant Rodeo Night Photo opportunity for kids with Miss Limestone Rodeo and Professional Rodeo Clown Mike Wentworth. 5:30–7pm. Friday, May 15 Special Needs Rodeo 10:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Rodeo for individuals with special needs at the Limestone Sheriff’s Rodeo Arena. Friday, May 15 & Saturday, May 16
Main Performances 6:00 P.M. Gates Open. Pony Rides for Kids 10 & Under 7:00 P.M. Kids Gold Rush – Entertainment 8:00 P.M. 33rd Annual Rodeo Opening Ceremonies (not necessarily in this order)
Bareback Bronc Riding Calf Roping Break-Away Roping Steer Wrestling Saddle Bronc Riding Kids Calf Scramble
Entertainment for kids 10 & Under
Cowgirl’s Barrel Racing Chuck Wagon Races Bull Riding Professional Rodeo Clowns & Specialty Acts
May 1 - May 14, 2015
May 1 - May 14, 2015
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Tourism
May Is All About The Outdoors by Teresa Todd, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association
bass-fishing-tournament-2015. Bring your hot rod, motorcycle, truck, unique vehicle or motorcycle and park on the square at the May 2nd Cruise-In Downtown Athens, AL. You can share your love of automobiles with other enthusiasts from 3:00PM to 6:00PM at no charge. While you are there, take a break and shop at the unique boutiques and stores, or enjoy a delicious meal downtown at one of the many restaurants on the Square. On May 5th the Athens Swim Team Registration begins at the Athens Recreation Center 270 U.S. Highway 31-N, Athens, AL. Limestone County residents who are ages 5 to 18 and are avid swimmers are encouraged to register for the Athens Gators - Athens Swim Team. Ages 8 and under are required to swim 25 yards; ages 9-12 are required to swim 50 yards and ages 13-18 are required 100 yards unassisted. Registration is $125.00 (up to $40.00 credit for working one fundraiser) includes latex swim team swim cap, coaching fees, meet fees (except Madison Medal Meet) and equipment other than swimsuit and goggles. For additional requirements, forms and more information: www. athensgators.org What about bass fishing at Ingalls Harbor? The Athens Relay for Life will be having their 4th Annual Bass Fishing tournament in Ingalls Harbor located at 701 Market Street NW Decatur. Anglers are invited to head out on the waters in search biggest bass from safe light until 3:00PM. Lunch will be provided to registered boaters. For registration: www.active.com/decatur-al/ other-endurance/city-of-athens-4th-annual-relay-for-life-
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Are you ready for some RODEO? We have a week of rodeo related events starting May 9th with the Limestone County Sheriff’s Rodeo Parade at 1:00PM. Groups and individual participants are welcome to participate at no fee. Sheriff Mike Blakely will lead the way for the parade featuring Queen Contestants, Cowgirls and Cowboys of all ages on horseback along with many buggies and wagons. The route will depart the arena onto Alabama Highway 99/Market Street to the Limestone County Courthouse. The Preston’s Rodeo Kickoff at Preston’s Western and Outdoor Wear begins May 11 at 5:00PM. Bring the kids for a little free fun including horseback rides and a little western fun. Then on May 12, put on your dancing boots for the Sarrell Dental Street Dance and Fashion Show at the Limestone County Courthouse Square at Marion and Market Streets in Athens, AL. There will be line dancing and live music from the Jeff Whitlow Band. The Rodeo Slack Day roping will be held on May 14th where all team roping contestants will compete. Area elementary schools will reward their “Leader in Me” and “Reading Initiative” participants with a field trip to watch slack day. Gates Open at 8:00AM, slack begins at 9:00AM. Slack Day admission is $5.00. On May 15, the Special Needs Rodeo attends the Limestone County Sheriff Rodeo Arena sponsored by Turner Beverage Company of Huntsville, and Combined Public Communication. Children and adults with special needs are offered a day of rodeo and lunch. Festivities begin at 10:00AM and end at 1:00PM. Also on May 15 -16, you can come and see the Rodeo that has been voted twice as the “Top 20 Events of the Year”
by Southern Tourism Society and named “RODEO OF THE YEAR” during the Lone Star National Finals Rodeo. The 33rd Annual Limestone County Sheriff’s Rodeo Arena is located at Alabama Highway 99, Athens, AL 35611. Gates open at 6:00PM and kids 10 & under can enjoy pony rides. 7:00PM - Kids Gold Rush. 8:00PM Opening Ceremony and event kickoff including bareback and saddle bronc riding, calf and break-away roping, steer wrestling, kids calf scramble, barrel racing, chuck wagon racings, bull riding, professional rodeo clowns, specialty acts and more. Advance tickets: Adults $10.00, Children 12 and under $8.00 at Limestone County Sheriff’s Office 101 West Elm Street, Athens. For more information: www.limestonesheriffrodeo.com Just to prove it is an outdoor extravaganza here are a few more outdoor events for May! May 9 -- Chick-Fil-A Connect Race Series Athens, AL. Join Chick-Fil-A for 5K and 10K on a USATF Certified course benefiting Bridges of Hope Adoption Ministry. Children 12 and under can enjoy the Family FunZone from 7:00-10:00AM packed with activities and inflatables as they wait for friends and family to cross the finish line. For more information or to register: cfaraceseries.com/ races/148/ May 14 -- Athens State Alumni Association Golf Classic. Canebrake Golf Club 23015 Founders Circle, Athens, AL 35613. Shotgun start at 1:00PM Four person teams are TBA and includes lunch, green fees, golf car, course refreshment, hospitality gifts and prizes. For more information or to request registration forms contact the Office of Alumni Affairs at 256-2338185 or alumni@athens.edu
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or www.myathens.info/golfclassic/ May 16 -- 5th Annual Spencer Black 5K Run/Walk and 1-Mile Fun Run at Blue Springs Elementary 16787 Hardy Road, Athens, AL 35611 8:30AM. Come join the race to benefit Clements High School and Blue Spring Elementary School fitness programs and facilities. For more information, sign-up for runners notice or to make a donation, please contact Gary Van Wagnen 314-409-5102 or email garyvanwagnen@aol. com May 19 -- Alabama Wildlife Federation Wild Game Cookoff Athens, AL. Wild game cookers will come together to compete in the categories of fish, fowl and game. Cookers registration is free. (Cooking team form: alabamawildlife. org/apps/wildgame-cookoffteams.php) Ticket price TBA and includes complimentary food and 1 year AWF Member-
ship. Information: Greg Lambert - 256-998-0057 or AWF Headquarters 1-800-822-9453 May 23 -- Spring Fling Arts and Crafts Festival. Whistle Hollow Farm 701 Lofton Hall Road, Ardmore, TN. Outside event from 10:00AM-3:00PM, must provide own tents. No direct sales, crafters only. Fee: $30.00, no electricity; $40.00 with electricity. Entertainment, homemade fried pies, and chicken salad at concession stand. Rain date: May 30th. For more information, 931-468-9437. For your vacation information, class or church reunions, and local stay-cations, contact the Athens-Limestone County for brochures and information on local attractions, museums, art information and tours. Athens- Limestone County Tourism - 100 N. Beaty Street – 256-232-5411 – www.VisitAthensAL.com
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Special Feature
Sunset Swim Club: Ready For The 2015 Swim Season
by Deborah Huff
Spring is here and summer is just around the corner as Angelo and Vincent Azzarello, owners of Sunset Swim Club are busily gearing up for a fantastic 2015 swim season. This is Sunset’s 3rd year to be re-open after the historical 2011 tornadoes utterly destroyed the Club. It took a year to completely rebuild and they have been going strong ever since. Sunset Swim Club,which is located just off Hwy 72, heading south on Mooresville Road, will open up Memorial Day Weekend as is the traditional time of the first “big splash,” and will remain open through Labor Day. The Azzarellos are anticipating a successful 2015 season, and want you to know why they are the best swimming value in the Valley. Sunset Swim Club boasts a million gallon pool that is 200 feet long and 80 feet wide, and is the largest outdoor rectangular pool in the state of Alabama. That is just the beginning of a long list of amenities. There are two one-meter boards off of which to dive, a baby pool, a basketball court, and you can play volleyball, water basketball, horseshoes, and ping pong. There are
first come, first serve grills for cookouts and picnic tables. You just need to bring your charcoal, lighter fluid and meat. For Club members, you can also have birthday parties for your kids, for an additional fee. Something I especially liked
come to bring in their own food if they choose. This is especially nice for large families who prefer to bring in their own coolers with snacks and drinks for the day, and are on a tight budget. So from the baby pool to the high dive, Sunset Swim Club is just the place for you and your family to enjoy swimming, playing, lounging and building wonderful memories for the summer.
place to see familiar faces and friends throughout the summer. Since they are open until 8pm, you can come after work for a relaxing swim and spend quality time with your family. The lifeguards are excellent, and very vigilant. “The pool is cleaned every morning and we stay completely on top of taking care of the chemicals,” Angelo stated. “A mother who has a family membership told me that one of the things she especially likes is the cleanliness of the water, which we pride ourselves in,” Vincent commented. Sunset Swim Club routinely scores a 100 or 99 on their health inspection.
There is a reason that families come back year after year--come experience it for yourself. Call or stop by to find out about a season membership. You can also check them out at www. sunsetswimclub.com. Jump on in, the water for you and your family will be just fine! Let Angelo know you read the article in Athens Now. Happy Swimming at Sunset!
when visiting was the secure area that is set aside for members to bring and store their pool toys, air mattresses, etc, so they wouldn’t need to haul them back and forth all summer. They offer free swimming lessons to
club members, and classes are for everyone from little ones who need to get comfortable with blowing bubbles, to beginners learning kicks and strokes, to intermediate swimmers. “We offer free swimming lessons to make the Club a safer place for families to enjoy swimming,” said Vincent. As a mother of young kids, this a real added benefit to club membership.
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So what are some other benefits of a family membership? Angelo told me it’s the easiest way “to provide a family friendly atmosphere” He also added, “When you open the Club up to just one time users, it’s much harder to supervise because you don’t know the people, and through having a Club membership there’s a better chance for you and your family to meet new people and make new friends.” It provides a safe, comfortable
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There are concessions available, but families are wel-
Sunset Swim Club
14128 Mooresville Rd Athens, AL 35613 256-431-9566 www.sunsetswimclub.com Page 11
Clean and Green
Earth Day Successful Thanks To Good People by Lynne Hart As I write this article, I am still exhausted from the Earth Day & Outdoor EXPO and all the work that lead up to a very successful day. It is a good tired. The event was moved to Friendship Church due to threats of stormy weather; however, we still had between 1,500 and 2,000 people come through to enjoy the many activities and exhibits. We are very grateful to the pastors and staff of Friendship Church for allowing us to use their facility. I would like to publicly thank each of the volunteer members of the Earth Day & Outdoor EXPO Committee. Planning a large event is difficult enough, but when you have to
move it and change everything at the last minute, it is extremely stressful. The KALB Commission members and community volunteers that joined the committee worked very hard to make everything come together. KALB has some of the best volunteers on planet Earth! There is a story and a man behind the first Earth Day celebration which I would like to share. In 2008, Mr. John Crews, owner of Crews, Inc., came to me and asked if KALB would like him to financially sponsor an open house so the community could come and get to know more about our organization. He wanted to bring in a ra-
dio personality, serve free hot dogs, and give away some door prizes. In the spring of 2009, our Open House took place and was so well attended, it was decided we would do it
again with Earth Day as our theme.
John Crews (L) receiving award from KALB Director, Lynne Hart
The interest Mr. Crews took in KALB was the spark that lead to what has become our annual Earth Day celebrations. On Saturday, April 25th, KALB recognized Mr. Crews at the Earth Day & Outdoor EXPO as the catalyst for Earth Day events in Athens. Mr. Crews humbly denied doing anything worthy of the award he was given; however, his initial generous offer and his constant support of this event is truly worthy of recognition. The 2015 Earth Day and Outdoor EXPO was a huge success! Hundreds of hot
dogs and lots of door prizes were given away. Beautiful raptors and reptiles were on display from the Coosa River Science School. Kids were feeding a calf, goats, alpacas, and other animals at the Tennessee Valley Zoo display. Other exhibitors allowed for handling of bugs and petting a bearded dragon. Lots of organizations were representing all the wonderful outdoor adventures that await in North Alabama. Our guests collided with the wonders of nature! We hope you had the chance to visit with us. If not, we’ll do it again next year!
Become a Fan
(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com Page 12
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May 1 - May 14, 2015
Cooking with Shelley
Chicken Stew by Shelley Underhill Here we go 2012 and a pot of Chicken Stew! Hope you all had a great holiday season... my family and I sure did. Thanks for all the holiday cards that you sent me via email, I sure enjoyed getting them. This issue I want to feature our chicken stew recipe. I have to confess that until I moved to Alabama I had never eaten chicken stew...my
daughter and I came up with this version. It’s really easy and we hope you try it. Send your recipes and questions to shelleysdesk@gmail.com
What you will need: 4 quarts water 2 cans diced tomatoes 1 can tomato sauce 1 can corn 1 can lima beans 1 large onion - peeled and chopped 2 large potatoes - peeled and chopped into chunks 1 Rotisserie chicken - deboned and chopped into chunks 4 chicken bouillon cubes Bring water to a roaring boil; add everything to the pot except the chicken; bring stew back to a roaring boil and let boil until potatoes are tender. Add chicken and let it boil another 10 to 15 minuets. Enjoy.
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Health and Fitness
Exercise and Cholesterol by Janet Hunt
Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment.
hood, swim, join a local fitness class, etc.
Exercise is one of the best ways to lower your cholesterol. We are beginning to understand how it works. First of all, exercise may help you lose weight which will help lower your cholesterol. Being overweight tends to increase the amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in your blood. LDL is the type of cholesterol that has been linked to heart disease (remember, “L” is for “Lousy”). Exercise stimulates enzymes that help move LDL from your blood to your liver. In your liver, the cholesterol is converted into bile or excreted. Therefore, the more you exercise, the more LDL your body expels. Exercise also increases the size of the protein particles that carry cholesterol through your blood. The combination of protein and cholesterol is called a lipoprotein. Some of these lipoproteins are small and dense and some are big and fluffy. It is the small, dense lipoproteins that are dangerous because they can squeeze into linings of the heart and blood vessels. Studies have shown that ex-
• Try to find several activities you enjoy so you can vary your routine and use different muscles. Also, try to find an activity that can be done indoors and/or outdoors so you can be prepared for the weather.
ercise increases the size of the proteins that carry both the good (HDL) and bad (LDL) lipoproteins. Now that we know exercise helps lower cholesterol, how much do we need to exercise? Most health organizations recommend a minimum of 30 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous exercise such as walking, jogging, biking, swimming, etc. However, studies have found that more intense exercise is better than moderate for lowering cholesterol. Also, those who exercised more intensely raised their high-density lipoprotein (HDL) – the
“Happy” lipoprotein that helps remove cholesterol from the blood. Even though moderate exercise is not as effective in reducing LDL or increasing HDL, it does keep cholesterol levels from rising. Therefore, some exercise is better than none; and more exercise is better than some.
day. • Find an activity you enjoy that you will continue. You do not need to join a gym or purchase expensive exercise equipment. You can walk your dog (dogs need exercise, too!), ride your bike around the neighbor-
Of course, exercise won’t guarantee low cholesterol. Genetics, weight, age, gender, and diet all contribute to your cholesterol. Exercise has additional advantages: it can keep your bones strong, reduce risk of cancer, diabetes, stroke and obesity. Exercise also helps fight depression and lowers the risk for dementia.
For more information about exercise and fitness, contact Janet Hunt at jhunt1@pclnet.net or visit Janet’s Fitness Facebook page.
If you have not been exercising regularly, you need to start slowly and check with your doctor. Once you have been cleared to exercise, here are some pointers: • Choose something you can do for 10-20 minutes at a time at a moderate intensity (walking, biking, swimming, jogging, elliptical machine, rowing machine, etc.) • Work up to 30 minutes of activity per day minimum. You can get your exercise in 10-minute increments if needed, but it needs to add up to 30 minutes by the end of the
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May 1 - May 14, 2015
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Cover Story
Spring Into Your Summer Body by Jonathan Henderson continued from page 1
and sauna, with free childcare included. Tanning is also available, as well as personal trainers on site. SportsFit utilizes Cybex equipment, and has the tools to help accomplish your goals, whatever the season.
en free of charge. They will give away 25 SportsFit T-shirts to the first 25 people who try out their classes. May FitFest will feature free food and drinks and a bounce house for children. They will also host multiple fitness classes each day, free of charge. Around a dozen local vendors will be set-up around the facility giving participants a chance to try samples of organic food, vitamins, massages, body wraps, Essential Oils, win photography sessions, haircuts and more! Each vendor will have products to try from their businesses, as well as have a drawing for give-a-way with a larger item at the end of the event. Representatives from ItWorks, Advocare, The Massage Institute, Chick-
Whether you’re looking to lose 10 pounds or 100 pounds, tone or bodybuild, train for a mara-
thon, or take a Spinning class, Sports Fit is the location to do so. All new members receive a free training session or set-up with a certified personal trainer. Class Descriptions: Step - An intense nonstop workout designed for those who have moved beyond the begin-
Fil-A, Herbs and More (Oil and Vitamin Shop), The Clubhouse (Indoor playground for kids ages 1-5), X-Treme Nutrition, Machete Golf (Teacher for golf lessons) and others will be on site. Athens SportsFit offers a family-oriented atmosphere and is locally owned and operated. SportsFit provides over 200 fitness classes each month in its 24-hour fitness facility. It maintains an indoor pool, whirlpool
ner Step. This class uses choreography and power moves to give everyone a cardiovascular challenge. Zumba - A fitness dance class with a little Meringue, Reggae tone, and Salsa. This is great cardio for all levels. Yoga - This class will increase your strength, balance, and flexibility by combining flowing postures with relaxation and breathing techniques. This class is suitable for all fitness levels. Kickboxing - Intense cardio using kicks, jabs,
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May 1 - May 14, 2015
and other cardio moves while working your whole body. Tabata/Abs- A high intensity interval class with a 20:10 ratio of work and rest in four minute blocks. The class will include both cardio and resistance with time set aside to focus on abdominal work. Barre Fit - a ballet inspired combination of Pilates and yoga style
moves. Class is performed bare foot on a mat. Full body muscle control, strength, coordination and balance are challenged in this low impact class. Results show stronger, leaner and longer muscles. Pound It - a fun, functional group fitness method that fuses the best strength training, Pilates, and cardio moves with drumming. The use of Ripstix, (lightly weighted exercise
drumsticks) challenges the body’s stability during each technique and targets and strengthens the core and deep infrastructural muscles. Muscleworks - A one hour resistance training class using small dumbbells, body bars, stability balls and mats for all levels. Insanity - Thirty minutes of intense cardio based on the Insanity workout series. This is for intermediate and advanced levels. Aqua Challenge - A one-hour cardio and toning combination class using floating weights and your
own body as resistance. This is for all fitness levels and both swimmers and non-swimmers. Aqua Arthritis - A onehour class that is slow paced and maximizes flexibility and range of motion for those who suffer from arthritis. This is for all fitness levels and both swimmers and nonswimmers. AquaZumba and Aqua Dancefusion - One hour dance classes in the pool featuring different types of motivating music, also for all fitness levels and both swimmers and nonswimmers. The fitness schedule for the FitFest includes classes on both Monday and Tuesday. Monday, May 11th:
Aerobics Room: Pound It at 4 p.m., Muscleworks at 4:30 p.m., Step at 5 p.m., Zumba at 5:30 p.m., Yoga at 6:30 p.m., Tabata at 7 p.m., Pilates at 7:30 p.m. XFit Room: Barre at 4 p.m., Insanity 4:30 p.m. Pool: Aqua Dancefusion at 5 p.m., Aqua Challenge at 5:30 p.m. Outdoors: Zumba at 6 p.m., and Zumba at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 12th: Aerobics Room: Zumba at 4 p.m., Yoga at 4:30 pm., Kickboxing at 5 p.m., Pound it at 6 p.m., Yoga at 6:30 p.m., Tabata at 7 p.m., and Cycling at 7:30 p.m. XFit: Barre class at 4 p.m. Pool: Aqua Arthritis at 4:30 p.m., Aqua Challenge at 5 p.m. Outdoors: Zumba at 6 p.m., Zumba at 6:30 p.m.
Commit to being fit and contact Athens SportsFit at 256-233-3994 for more information, or visit sportsfit247.com. May 1 - May 14, 2015
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Learning As A Lifestyle
Away We Go by Wanda Campbell
Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 It is hard to believe that it has been four years since the Center for Lifelong Learning opened our doors. It seems like just yesterday we were getting ready for the grand opening, which was held April 26, 2011. It was a rainy day and we just knew the rain would keep everyone away. We were fortunate to have over 100 people attend the event. Just two years ago, we started the Academic Travel Program with a trip to Chickamauga. This summer, we will be offering two trips. The first is a trip to the Tennessee Aquarium. Bring your kids or grandkids with you as we travel to the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga. Come see for yourself why visitors rate the Tennessee Aquarium the best aquarium in America. Enjoy a remarkable journey from the mountains to the sea as you explore above and below the surface in the Aquarium’s two buildings. Bring your sense of adventure as you discover cool creatures around every corner. Put yourself in the boots of the Aquarium’s animal caretakers during a 45-minute backstage ex-
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perience. Reservations for backstage pass are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. We are leaving the Center for Lifelong Learning at promptly 8:00am, Tuesday, June 16, 2015. The fee for the excursion is $85, which includes transportation, entry fees, and lunch. There is an additional fee of $15/per person for the backstage pass. There are only 15 spaces for the backstage pass so register early. in this package. Our motor coach is equipped with restroom and video capabilities. In case you don’t know about our tour sites, Beale Street is a street in downtown Memphis, which runs from the Mississippi River to East Street. It is
Make your reservation by June 1. You can register online at our webpage – www.athens.edu/cll - or call us at 256-233-8260.
Our next trip will be an overnight trip to Memphis. The trip is scheduled for two nights, and three days, September 21-23. Monday and Wednesday will be travel days. We will be staying two nights at a Tunica, Mississippi area Casino Resort. On Tuesday, we will have free time on Beale Street, a guided tour of Memphis area, and a visit to Graceland. Two breakfasts and two dinners are included
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Street are major tourist attractions in Memphis. Even if you are not a fan of Elvis Presley, Graceland is a must see in Memphis. It is the former home of Elvis and is the one of the most visited homes in America. Although Elvis had homes in Los Angeles as well, Graceland was considered his home base. Today, Graceland is a museum. The fee for this threeday trip is $229, double occupancy. Be sure to make your reservation for this trip by August 7. At this price, I expect to fill up fast, so don’t wait too long. You can register online at the website – www. athens.edu/CLL or call us at 256-2338260.
a significant location in the city’s history, as well as in the history of the Blues. Today, the Blues clubs and restaurants that line Beale
Whether you are sticking around town, or traveling with the Center for Lifelong Learning, it is always fun to learn something new.
May 1 - May 14, 2015
Jerry’s Journal
Tink Haney - From Cotton Fields To Rice Paddies Of Vietnam, Part 3 by Jerry Barksdale Lieutenant Tink Haney had been in Vietnam for five months and witnessed men wounded and killed by landmines. Each morning they went down a 12-mile stretch of dirt road, the men walking fast in front of the trucks, sweeping for mines with metal detectors. The VietCong usually buried the homemade mines a foot deep in dirt, rendering the detectors practically useless. “I’d drop a piece of shrapnel on the road and cover it with my foot to test my men,” says Haney. “They never found it.” When a mine was discovered near the end of a bridge or culvert, Haney didn’t detonate it for fear of damaging the structure. He ordered his men back and dug it up himself. His men weren’t surprised when he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for Heroism. “First Lieutenant Tink Haney personally disarmed and removed several mines, some of which were booby-trapped… exposing himself to sniper fire and ambush… selflessly disregarding his own personal injuries… was an inspiration to others…,” the citation stated in part.
back wheels ran over a mine the dirt would absorb the shock.” But every day the odds were piling up against him and he knew it. “I had enough sense to know that we weren’t finding all of the mines.” He rode on the passenger side of a ¾ ton truck and as a precaution sat on top of sandbags he had stacked on the floorboard. Unfortunately, the driver couldn’t do the same because of the clutch, brake and gas pedals. On the morning of October 23rd, Haney was riding shotgun in a ¾ ton truck as they approached a bridge. KA-BOOM! A deafening blast shattered the peaceful morning. A fireball shot upward. Chunks of metal, sand and debris sailed through the air followed by billowing smoke. Addled and disoriented, Haney found himself on the side of the road. He
had been blown out of the truck, which was now a smoking pile of metal. “A mine exploded on the driver’s side and hit him in the face,” says Haney. “We were receiving fire and I ordered the men to return it. I was lucky. I got up off the ground and discovered that the driver’s feet were blown off.” A medic riding in the back of the truck administered aid. Luckily, a Colonel aboard a chopper saw black smoke and dropped down to lend assistance. “I can’t remember how I got to the hospital at Chu Lai but I’m sure it was by chopper. My back was injured, my right hand was busted and my right knee was cut. I was laid up in the hospital in a warehouse and soldiers were being brought in blown up and crapping on themselves. Finally, they sewed up my hand.” Later a female physician
So far he hadn’t received a scratch. Some might say he was lucky. If so, he made a lot of it himself. He filled the back of a 5 ton truck with dirt and the men rode on top after they had swept their assigned stretch of Highway One. “One week I made them back up all the way to our starting point. If the
May 1 - May 14, 2015
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came by and asked Haney if he was ready to return to duty. “I can’t move,” he replied. He was finally admitted and on the fourth day, his Battalion Commander came by to check on him. “My back hurts. They never checked it,” said Haney. The Colonel chewed out the doctor. The nurses were running around, “What did you tell that Colonel?” they asked Haney. Finally, they x-rayed his back and returned him to duty. Later, another platoon had several mines behind a berm when one exploded sending flying shrapnel at Haney. “It hit my right jaw and broke it.My face was numb but I could feel my teeth were intact.” He was helicoptered to a hospital. “Lieutenant, with these wounds, I can send you to Japan and you won’t have to go back to Vietnam,” the doctor told him. Haney chokes. “When I tell this I
get emotional. I told the doctor that we were short Lieutenants and they needed me so I went back.” In early May 1969, Haney boarded a plane at Cam Rahn Bay, along with other returning soldiers, and flew home. He had served 11 months and 26 days in Vietnam. Packed away in his bag were two Purple Hearts, an Army Commendation Metal with a V device for Valor, and a Bronze Star. The returning soldiers were quiet and reflective. “You’d think the people would be hollering, but nobody said a word until we landed in America. All I could think of was reaching home,” says Haney. They landed Ft. Lewis, Washington and were greeted by war protestors carrying signs. Haney worked for TVA in Chattanooga for a year and then was transferred to Brownsferry. In 1975, he married Sharon Rainey of Savannah, Tennessee. “Met a good un,” he says. They had two children, Heather, a NASA employee, who lives in Athens and Will who passed away with cancer in 2011. Haney joined the 1343rd National Guard Combat Engineers in Athens, eventually rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and Battalion Commander. After 27 years of service he retired. He and Sharon live on Lindsay Lane where they raise pullets. He is a member of the Athens-Limestone Honor Guard and active supporter of the Alabama Veterans Museum.
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Dog Barker
How To Give A Dog A Bath by Joel Allen
Ok, how many of us dread giving the dog a bath? Thankfully, the majority of mine understand I am not out to drown them. In saying this, how many out there have a dog who hates the bath and will run and hide? Better yet, how many out there simply have a dog who growls at the mention of the word “bath?” I was watching America’s Funniest Videos the other day and there was one scene where the man mentioned “bath” to the dog and all I saw was a big mouth full of teeth bared at the man. I laughed so hard, especially when the man picked up the dog and the dog put his paws across the doorway. Does anyone have a
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dog like that? I would love to hear your story. So, back to the word “bath.”
I can imagine our dogs who hate baths saying, “Blasphemy!” when we mention “bath.” Ok, let’s talk about the
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worst dog to bathe. He/ she is usually the largest dog. They tend to run and hide, sometimes placing their big body under the bed, raising the bed a few inches off the floor. In cases like this, sometimes the pet parent has to grab their dog by the hind legs and drag them out and to the bathroom (I hope no one has wood floors and if they do I hope the dog has their nails trimmed.) Once the dog is in the tub, it does not end there. A smart person will have set their tub area up for the dog by having the shampoo or flea dip ready. If there is a bar in the tub, attach a leash short enough to hold the dog in place in the tub. The bather should know to save their back a lot of pain. Sit on the edge of the tub with your feet
inside the tub with the dog. The bar will come in handy to catch your balance if the dog should try and push their way out. One more thing to know: a showerhead that detaches makes bathing a lot easier! In my experience, if the dog is introduced to bathing early in their life, your life becomes easier later. When Alexander (Zeus’ father) was alive, he would deliberately go outside and lay in a mud puddle. Then he would leave me a trail of paw prints to the bathroom. I would be angry with him until I saw him in the tub waiting for his bath. So, it went that when he felt he needed a bath, he would cause me a lot of work. I miss him so much! One day I will see him again. Now, I will leave everyone with this food for thought. In my experience, if there is a flea problem, it is safe to use Dawn dish soap or the generic brand to shock the fleas off your dog. “Remember to love your dogs because they love you. Maybe not the way you want them to, like chewing up your favorite shoes or what not, but that is just love chewing. Be thankful for the time you have with them always.”
Joel and Zues Allen 256-651-2211 May 1 - May 14, 2015
What Makes Ronnie Roll
Culture, Communication, And Collaboration by Ali Elizabeth Turner
It’s been a year since our last round of killer storms rampaged through our county, claiming two lives. As is always the case, the storm brought out the best in us, and we quickly rallied together to begin rebuilding. One of the toughest parts of a storm is when churches get destroyed, but that is also often the site of some of the most extravagant outpouring of God’s grace, as people work not so much to restore a building, but the community it serves.
ally used to describe sewage flowing untreated out into a bay.
Mayor Ronnie was asked to speak at Clements Baptist church at their April 26th morning service, and the new sanctuary was dedicated to God as a place for the congregation to treasure His presence. The Mayor told me about the theme that kept reemerging, the challenge to “Do Something.” The term “do something” was seen on placards held up by kids, but rather than be a call to action for action’s sake, it had far more to do with the state of one’s heart, and his favorite placard simply said, “Celebrate.”
From a motivational perspective, his favorite speaker from the conference talked about the “3 Cs”, “culture, communication and collaboration.” These are qualities that, when utilized synergistically, function as the glue that not only holds a community together in times of crisis, but cause it to become stronger, and to grow. Working backwards in order to illustrate the speaker’s point, Mayor Ronnie talked about the fact that he received a framed certificate from Clements Baptist Church for the way he collaborated with other responders to help the stricken congregants regain their footing. He was careful to note that without the help of many others in the aftermath of the storm, Clements would not have recovered so quickly.
He was just home from Corpus Christi, TX, where a number of representatives from municipalities throughout the Southeast gathered together to hear about each other’s challenges, triumphs, and innovative ways of solving serious problems. The Mayor of Brownwood, TX talked about a lake in their area that dropped 19 feet, and they were in trouble. While it understandably does not appeal to our sensibilities, Brownwood is now using what is known as “effluent” water, a term that is usu-
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While effluent water is obviously not for human consumption, more and more drought stricken areas are using it to irrigate crops. More than likely we will not face the need to do the same with our crops grown in North Alabama, but what spoke to the Mayor was the humorous way the speaker approached the discussion of Brownwood’s dilemma, and the ingenuity of the solution.
Golden of Athens Utilities up to the conference room to show me how the Department’s software can pinpoint outages in our area, and speed up restoration of service. We also talked about what a difference Nixle and the Smartboards have made in Athens. “Culture” was the topic where we “stayed before we prayed.” The speaker asked the simple question, “What do you want your community to look like?” The big picture is simple, as all of us want our community to be a place of love, values, hard work, fun, opportunities, family and personal wholeness, faith, and justice. Memorial Day is coming up, and in 3 more years, our city will be
celebrating its 200th anniversary. It’s “getting there” as a city that is always the challenge before a mayor, as well as everyone he serves. What he learned was that “culture is not re-defined, but built upon, and developed.” In other words, it is important to “let the story be
the story,” or just “tell it like it is,” whether it’s the history of a people, or a celebration of a triumph over a twister that tried to kill a people. Then it was time to “pray-nroll”, and we were each off once again to our respective next adventure.
Communication could be a standalone topic, especially given its role in an emergency situation, but on a regular basis, really understanding what is being said through communication, human and technological, can save lives. Mayor Ronnie called Amy
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Medical Update
“Notes” From A Nurse: Technology In Healthcare
by Rachel Clark, RN, BSN Technology changes the world we live in on a daily basis. There is always a new gadget or gizmo coming out on the market that is supposed to save us time, make our lives easier, or benefit us in some way or another. The marketing is usually well-planned, and it targets people of all ages, not just the GenY and technologically savvy. It is also changing how we do healthcare. The federal government mandated that all hospitals and physician’s offices across the country have some type of electronic medical record by the beginning of this year. The thinking is that it will help make things more standardized across the board, and will make the charting process more efficient. The goal is to make medical records contain-
ing history, allergies, diagnoses, medications, and treatments available to clinicians around the country quickly and easily. As a nurse, I work with electronic medical records every day. I have always had computerized charting, ever since I started as a new-graduate nurse. I never learned the art of paper charting, or how to read the infamously atrocious handwriting of doctors. All of my orders have been neatly typed, with little room for errors in interpretation. I have always had the ease of entering into the computer whatever treatments I’ve given to my patients, be that medications, physical assessments, or vital signs. Most of the time that task has been as simple as selecting the correct treatment from a dropdown menu of choices. Some-
times I’ve had to add in notes in a free text box to explain what isn’t exactly covered by the dropdown selection. I now use a system where I don’t even need to use a mouse. All I have to do is tab, arrow, and enter to select the value I want to enter into the patient’s chart. Sounds like a wonderful, high-tech solution to a problem, right? It is. And most of the time it is truly a marvelous thing! As a GenY-er, I quickly and easily adapt to the changing face of technology in the healthcare world like the rest of my generation. But not everyone does. And it’s not always all it is cracked up to be either. Sometimes, older nurses have problems with the system, and it is much harder for them to navigate it. If they haven’t familiarized themselves with the
basic functions of a computer, they have more trouble than their peers who have done so. I know such nurses; they do their jobs well, and their patients are always well taken care of. They’re old school, and I enjoy working with them quite a lot. They have a great deal of wisdom, and have seen things change drastically over the many years they have been doing what they do. But some of them struggle with the computerized part of their job. Not only is it a problem for some of the more seasoned nurses who have been doing this for years, it can be a problem for the GenYers. Not in the same sense of course; our problems come when for one reason or another, the system is not functioning as it should, is completely down, or is being updated. We all know our personal computers, phones, and tablets need to be updated from time to time. It’s annoying when your device informs you it needs to shut down in order to install an update that it thinks you need. Sometimes, until that update is done, you are left scrambling because you’ve become dependent upon that piece of technology. Magnify that stress by 100. That is what it is like when the computer system of a major hospital or hospital system is down. Suddenly, those nurses like myself who have always had the ease of technology no longer have that comfort to fall
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back on. We have to chart on paper. We have to decipher the scribbling that is supposed to constitute a physician’s signature or order. We are totally and completely lost. For most of us, it can be one of the worst days in our career. If we have the ability to schedule ourselves for our weekly shifts, most of us will avoid working on days where there is a planned downtime of the system. Not all of us are that lucky. This was the exact situation I found myself in this past weekend. I also became more grateful for those nurses who have been around for several years, those who knew what it was like before we became completely digitized. All of a sudden, I was a brand new nurse again who had no idea what to do. I couldn’t read my orders, and was constantly asking either the nurses around me or the doctors themselves what was written on the page. It’s days like Sunday that make me question whether or not this electronic health record system is as efficient and valuable as it is said to be. Nursing is a science, but it is also an art. We are beginning to lose some of that art, especially as it relates to communication with doctors and each other. Some days, technology makes my job easier, and some days it makes it more complicated. And isn’t that always the case when the law of unintended consequences is in effect?
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