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May 20th - June 2nd, 2016

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

C&L Discount: The Best Kept Outlet Secret In The Tennessee Valley

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

Special Feature Joe’s World Famous Pizzeria Athens: A Wild And Wonderful Year 1... It is hard to believe that Joe’s World Famous Pizzeria has been with us for a full... Page 5

By Ali Elizabeth Turner

Sixteen years ago, a discount outlet that carried everything from spaghetti sauce to the kitchen sink opened near the west end of Athens on Hwy 72. It’s easy to spot, because the three story Country Boy statue stands guard

Special Feature Another Chance To Bless Our First Responders... In 2015, in response to his own and others’ outrage over the execution of two New York cops while they were eating a quick bite in their patrol car, Jerry Barksdale started... Page 9

Continued on page 15

PSI: Thirty Years Long And Staying Strong

From The Vets' Museum “Happy” Memorial Day? Not!!... I have never understood why anyone would say “Happy Memorial Day.” To me, there is nothing at all “happy” about... Page 10

By Ali Elizabeth Turner In 1986, Will Evans and his wife, Helen, started Premier Structures Incorporated here in Athens. They possessed a deep desire to bring a top quality construction service to the Continued on pages 17

May 20 - June 2, 2016

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May 20 - June 2, 2016

Publisher’s Point Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

A Little Child Shall Lead Them

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Contributing Writers Janet Hunt Lynne Hart Wanda Campbell Paul Foreman Shelley Underhill Rachel Clark, RN BSN Sandra Thompson Deb Kitchenmaster Jackie Warner Jerry Barksdale

On Wednesday, in the middle of talking on the phone with one of my columnists and tweaking her piece for this edition of Athens Now, I heard a knock on the door. Outside were three little girls, aged around 12, 9 and 7. They all began talking at once. “Our mama’s car is dead, and she sent us to get a jump for her car. She has jumper cables, and she’ll pay you,” I managed to conclude through all their dear jabbering. I thought perhaps they were visiting our neighbors on either side of us, and that I just had never met them. I looked both ways as though I was crossing the street, but

no cars were parked in either driveway. I had never seen these kids, and for the life of me, I couldn’t figure out who their mama was, how she knew me, and most importantly, how they found me. “Tell me where you live, and no, you don’t have to pay me.” Again, they all started talking at once, and I finally figured out that they lived way down the other end of the street, past the T in the road. I wanted to make sure that they practiced safety with strangers, so I told them, “You guys head toward your house, and I’ll follow in the car behind.” They would run hard, and then walk to catch their breath, and start running again.

As I crawled down the road in the car, I thought about what an adventure this could be. I was being led down the street by not just one child, but three, and I had a choice to make. I could either really enjoy this intrusion in my attempts to pull the paper together in a timely fashion, or I could feel stressed. There was something about the power of their innocence, and the serendipity of their choosing our house that just seemed to have the fragrance of God all over it. I have found by experience that this fragrance can be heady stuff. At the very least, I have needed a jump more times than I care to remember, and always try to pay it for-

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 6

ward when I can. I may not know much about cars, but I have gotten pretty good at using jumper cables.

We finally arrived, the cables were applied, and the car fired right up. The young mom introduced herself, thanked me profusely, and then she began to cry. I asked her, “Honey, what’s wrong?” I then learned that she had lost a child to SIDS just a few weeks ago, and she was the one who found her child. “Oh, I am so sorry,” I said, and she went straight into my arms, while I rocked her like a child. She stayed there quite awhile. She showed me a picture of her baby, and we began to talk about a number of things, concluding that we would get together soon. She had promised to take the girls shopping, and wanted to make good on her word. So, she dried her tears, gathered up the girls, looked at me and said, “God sent you to me today, thank you.” “No, honey, thank you,” I said.

I had been led by little children straight into an adventure, a chance to help, and a friendship. How glad I am that I followed them, and Him!

A View From The Bridge . . . 8 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 9 From The Vets' Museum . . . 10 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Shelley . . . . . 13 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 14

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

Cover Stories . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . 18 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 19 Horse Whispering . . . . . . 20 Jerry's Journal . . . . . . . . 21 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Foreman's Forum . . . . . . . . 23

May 20 - June 2, 2016

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All Things Soldier

It Came, We Fought, I Won by Ali Elizabeth Turner

ily hope.”

This is about the heart of a warrior that is beating in the body of a brave, 13 year old stage 4 cancer survivor, and the hearts of soldiers to both join him in his battle, and honor him when he won. In this era of “The Battle of the Bathroom,” it is refreshing to be told a story of soldiers and families coming together to defeat a vicious global enemy, the “Big C.” This past Monday, 20 soldiers marched in formation through the neighborhood of Christian Lopez, who lives in Dorchester, Massachusetts. They were in parade formation, sounding out the distinctive cadence songs of their unit, the sight and sound of them crying out, “That’s the way we do it here now”

In an interview with ABC news, MSG Shorter said, "My family thinks I'm the hero because I fought wars, but the real hero is my sister and my nephew," Shorter told ABC News today. "All I did was to honor his mother's wishes. I want this story to be about my courageous sister.” Apparently the Mayor of Boston also expressed his own ability to honor Chris

bringing people out of their houses. That included Chris, who was completely surprised. Led by Christian’s aunt, Mariana Shorter, herself a retired MSG (Master Sargeant), they marched straight up to his door, carrying a parade style banner

which said, “It Came, We Fought, I Won.” Through tears, his aunt said, “I want to thank Chris for fighting one of the biggest battles ever in life. You are a true, true soldier.” Then each one marched up to

Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)

June 20th

11am - 1pm and 5pm-7pm

17915 W Elm St • Athens, Alabama • 256-232-0029 Page 4

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Chris, saluted him, and either shook his hand, or hugged him. As if that wasn’t enough, they presented him with his own set of ABUs, the Army name for the uniform worn in combat. Then they gave him his several patches, the indication of being part of a unit, and the proof of having survived a war. Shorter got the ok to honor her nephew from the General commanding the recruitment command in Boston, who had deeply personal reasons for getting behind the ceremony. The General has a 15 year old grandson in the hospital, and the boy is fighting a brain tumor. Shedding his own tears, the General said, “This has given my fam-

and his family by declaring that day “Christian Lopez Day.” His mother, Christina Ribeiro, had her own take on her young warrior son. "He is the only child I've seen who after chemo and radiation wants to go outside and play baseball. Nothing kept him down. He never gave up." Chris is in remission, and is full of dreams. He is certainly interested in “all things soldier,” and is thinking about being an astronaut. Then again, he might choose to be a chef, we shall see. He also wants to be on the Ellen de Generes show, and hopefully his story will go far and wide, and encourage many, because parents, kids, family and friends need hope.

May 20 - June 2, 2016

Special Feature

Joe’s World Famous Pizzeria Athens: A Wild And Wonderful Year 1 by Ali Elizabeth Turner It is hard to believe that Joe’s World Famous Pizzeria has been with us for a full year, and what a year it has been! In May of 2015, Joe opened up his place, which is located at 1260 Hwy 72, just down from Nestle’s Toll House Cookies. The unique blend of having pizza made in a 4,000 lb hand-made oven, the ‘50s/’60s diner décor, and Joe’s quintessential New York approach to life and pizza have been a winning combination. Joe is a veritable legend in international “Pizza-dom.” There is an Olympic competition for pizza, and he has won multiple Golds. He is a 3-time world pizza champion, and has won several other awards he doesn’t bother mentioning. He is the Guinness Book of World Record holder for the highest pizza toss, (over two stories straight up,) and in 2010, Joe’s was voted The Best Pizza in America. In 2012, he won the award in Naples, Italy, for being the World’s Fastest Pizza Maker. He has a certificate from the Scuola Italiana Pizzaioli, which loosely translated, means, “Professional Pizza School.” His media exposure has been extensive. Besides being featured in newspapers here and abroad, he has been seen on CNN, ESPN, The Food Network, Martha Stewart, and the Today Show. Last fall during football season, Joe made a pizza that looked like football legend Tim Tebow, and this past March he made another that featured an amazing likeness of Donald Trump. While I was in Joe’s shop

May 20 - June 2, 2016

ams, of Adams and Son, here in Athens. It takes a crew of 3-4 to work a festival, and it takes around 3 ½ hours to get the fire just right for baking. So far, Valentina has been to Whistlestop in Huntsville, Blue Pants Microbrewery in Madison, Do Dah Day, and will be appearing at our very own Athens Grease Festival, as well as the Florence Arts Alive Festival. He is going

for this edition, I met a 4 year old little girl who had come to know Joe well in this last year. Her name is Tinley Romine. She was with her grandma, Teresa Gibbs, and every time they come in, Joe gives Tin-

Chris Miller, his assistant chef, will hold down the Athens fort. There are a number of things Joe would like us to know after his first year in our fair town. “I am very thankful to the community of Athens for how they have welcomed me, and supported me,” he said. He went on to tell me about his crew. “I am thankful for my staff,” he said. “They

a trailer. So, what’s the plan? To take “Valentina” to festivals, corporate events, wedding receptions, parties of all kinds, and to bring Joe’s World Famous Pizza to people “anywhere, anytime, and anyplace,” he told me. stuck by me, and became a small family. I am losing some high school seniors who will be irreplaceable because of their work ethic.” He finished up our time with saying, “I thank God for everything I have.”

ley a little bit of dough to play with. In return she gives Joe a hug, and it was a joy to watch her with her “play dough.” Tinley is a bit older than Joe’s little girl, Valentina, who is the light of his life. Speaking of Valentina, Joe named the oven that makes his shop “pop” after his daughter, and he has exciting news: he has purchased a second oven made by Marra Forni, with whom Joe has worked for years, and the wood fired mobile unit has been mounted to

Good word, Carlucci, and may there be many more anniversaries to celebrate at Joe’s World Famous Pizza.

“Valentina bakes at 800 to 900 degrees,” he said. “We can make 250 pizzas an hour, and it takes 90 seconds.” “What? That’s like a natural microwave” I said, and added, “and much better for you.” He smiled. The mobile Valentina is usually fired by oak, and Joe gets his wood from Ricky Ad-

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to go on the road for events in Florida, and Ocean City, MD. I asked him, “Are you going to make special pizzas for Grease?” “Yes,” he said, but I knew he was not about to say any more, and based on personal experience, I am sure it will be a glorious surprise. While Joe is at the festivals,

Joe’s World Famous Pizzeria 1260 Hwy 72 Athens, AL 35611

Hours: Mon-Wed, 10:30-8, Thur-Sat, 10:30-9:30 Phone: 256-434-8400 Facebook: Joe’s World Famous Pizzeria Page 5

Calendar of Events Mud Volleyball registration NOW OPEN

2016 Mud Volleyball. Athens Swan Creek Park. Saturday, July 16, 2016 @ 9:00 AM. Why play Mud Volleyball for CASA of Limestone County? Mud Volleyball is CASAâ€™s primary fundraising event each year. Your fee for playing in the Mud is used to provide services for homebound seniors. Primary services include transportation to medical appointments, construction of wheelchair ramps, winterization, etc. CASA depends on outstanding volunteers who provide these services. You may register by coming to the CASA office at 912 West Pryor St., Athens, Al. Mailing registration to CASA at P. O. Box 749, Athens, AL. 35612 or Register online. Please call Glynda Walker (CASA Director) at 256-777-1038 for more information or email her at casalimestone@gmail.com.

Project Sweet Peas Jamboree May 21st

Ardmore Town Park, Park Avenue, Ardmore, AL. Come enjoy the games, vendors and fun at the Project Sweet Peas Jamboree from 10:00AM-2:00PM. Advanced tickets are $5.00 per person or $20.00 per family of 5 at projectsweetpeas.com/news--events. html Money raised benefits local division of Project Sweet Peas and Braelyn's Tine Toes NICU Support.

Girl Scout Troop 1922 Pancake Fundraiser May 21st

Applebee's, 1331 U.S. Highway 72E, Athens, AL. Join Girl Scout Troop 1922 from 8:00AM to 10:00AM for a tasty pancake breakfast. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $5.00 each and features a bonus coupon for $3.00 off your next Applebee's visit.

Senior Lunch Matinee Show May 27th

Yesterdays Event Center, 15631 Brownferry Road, Athens, AL. Join Yesterdays for a complete lunch including drink and dessert for $11.00, and entertainment featuring Elvis Remembered starring Michael Dean. Doors open 10:30AM, Event begins 11:00AM and showtime 12:00PM with a show length 60-75 minutes. Groups of all size welcome. Bus parking available. Cancellation fee may apply. Pre-reservation required, send reservation email to: Info@ YesterdaysEvents.com.

Memorial Day Watermelon Eating Contest May 28th

Joe Wheeler State Park, 4403 McLean Drive, Rogersville, AL. Join Joe Wheeler State Park for an event you can really sink your teeth into! Watermelon eating contest for ages 5-7 and 8-12 on the stage behind Joe Wheeler State Park Lodge. Ages 5-7 at 2:00pm Ages 8-12 at 2:30pm.

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Singing on the Square Jun 3rd

Limestone County Courthouse, Marion Street, Athens, AL. Join the Athens-Limestone County Tourism and sponsor Jimmy Smith Buick GMC for a free concert starting at 6:00pm featuring Southern Splendor Chorus and Rocket City Chorus. Be sure to bring your lawn chairs. For more information: http://www. visitathensal.com/3/singin-on-the-square.htm

Athens-Limestone Rescue Squad 1st Outdoor EXPO Jun 3rd & 4th

Limestone County Sheriff's Rodeo, AL-99 Athens, AL. Come out and have some fun and see the boats, ATV's RV's, outdoor vendors and more on Friday from 12:00PM-7:00PM and Saturay 10:00AM-5:00PM. Food by R&L Grilling. Parking is $5.00 per car. For more information Henry Hampton 256-431-3505 or Gina Crumpton 256-497-6612.

Bike MS: Rocket to the Shoals Jun 4th-5th

Wellness Park, Washington Street & Hine Street, Athens, AL. Bike MS: Rocket to the Shoals 2016 is a two day fundraising cycling event, taking you from Athens, AL to Florence, AL. There are 25,45 and 75 mile route options, all of which are well supported with fully-stocked rest stops every 10-12 miles, a great lunch stop each day and safety provided by medical personnel, HAM radio operators, law enforcement and motorcycle escorts. The ride begins Saturday morning at Athens-Limestone Hospital Wellness Center Fitness Park. Riders will travel through scenic back roads where they will enjoy NOAH bike trail, quaint towns, and beautiful scenery. Participatants will end at the Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa where we will enjoy a great post-ride lunch, afternoon tours of the shoals area, and "A Taste of Florence" for our dinner party and awards banquet. Day 2 begins with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before heading back to Athens and and the finish line. Our route for the second day takes riders along the river and into Joe Wheeler State Park. For more information or to register: http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/ ALCBikeEvents?pg=entry&fr_id=27776

Spring Garden Tour Jun 11th

Athens, AL. Enjoy a collection of private gardens during this tour from 10:00AM-2:00PM with Master Gardners on hand to answer questions. Advanced tickets are $15.00 from May 2nd to June 10th at the following location: Crawford Gifts 203 West Washington Street Athens; Pimento's 210 West Market Street Athens; Trinity's 204 West Market Street Athens; Athens-Limestone Public Library 603 South Jefferson Street Athens; and members of Friends of the Library. Day of Tour Tickets can only be purchased at the Athens-Limestone Public Library.

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May 20 - June 2, 2016

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The View From The Bridge

Jackie Warner

Community Outreach “Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters

The B Plan - Financial Boundaries by Jackie Warner

We step out for people, for our family, and for our friends with great intentions and sincere hope for them. Yes, our goal is to help. Our goal is to be a servant! The Lord truly knows our hearts. We do and then we do more, but it is as if our doing really causes more harm than good. Yes, your heart is in the right place, but now you have gotten stuck in this ever lasting cycle and see no way out! How many of us would say yes to the following questions: 1.Have to bail out healthy, able adults 2.Support those who choose to not support themselves 3.Inconvenience yourself just to make sure

someone else is not inconvenienced, and they don’t even care 4.Constantly feel manipulated 5.Have high hopes of another person changing their behavior and attitude to get on the right track “Yes” is typically the answer we give to our family and friends in some form of our actions, but we must remember that saying no has its implications. NOT saying no has implications too! So ask yourself, “How do I break the cycle, and help others to help themselves?” •Start saying no. For some people, borrowing money from family is a habit and the way

they learn to handle stressful situations. You become their safety net. •Instead of just handing over cash, assist with filling out any required forms for getting them needed assistance if applicable. •Attend a financial planning seminar and help with development of a budget. Share coupons. •Give a non-cash gift. This will allow you to have much more influence on how the funds are being utilized. •Wait and allow. Even if you might be willing to help them out, waiting to give the borrower

time to see if he/she can come up with a solution on their own is best. •If you do decide to give, give with the intent that you will not get it back.

•Don’t play into their patterns. Set ground rules and stick to them. “This is a one-time only and I will not be able to continue doing this.” Make it clear!

•Say no to those buddies and/or deadbeat family members and friends who are dressed so well, but always need help making the car payment, rent, or gas bill.

•Establish financial boundaries. You are not their bank teller, personal ATM, or plan B. Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional Jackie Warner, Community Outreach Specialist Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com Check out upcoming events: http://thebridge-us.yolasite. com/

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May 20 - June 2, 2016

Special Feature

Another Chance To Bless Our First Responders

Skit from the 2015 Together We Stand dinner

by Ali Elizabeth Turner In 2015, in response to his own and others’ outrage over the execution of two New York cops while they were eating a quick bite in their patrol car, Jerry Barksdale started an organization called Together We Stand, Alabama. The purpose was, and is, to show our first responders that we are both grateful for and aware of the risks they take to protect us, and to show our support in any way we can. People put blue light bulbs in the sockets of their porch lights to show solidarity with cops who were pulling the night watch. About 150 came out of the woodwork from all of North Alabama to raise money, design graphics, do advertising, organize entertainment, and the result was a beautiful meal held for our law enforcement personnel and their significant others in the Limestone County Event Center. The place was packed out, and I personally had the pleasure of “greeting and seating,” as well as seeing the gratitude on their faces as we showed our gratitude. The Mayor did several skits as his favorite alter-ego, Barney Fife, Chief Floyd Johnson had to handle being referred to as “Flossie” for awhile, City Councilman Chris Seibert was a biker, and even Adam

May 20 - June 2, 2016

and Eve were there. Jackie Greenhaw produced another fine show, the laughs were hearty, and the thanks were deep. What was particularly gratifying to me was that there was enough money collected

and donated to do another event, and this time the honorees would be the First Responders who are connected with Fire, Rescue, Paramedics, EMTs, and Dispatch. While most of the time they do not have to be involved in stopping or preventing actual crime, they put their lives on the line, too, and fatalities are not unheard of in their line of work.

serve to be honored. I want the public to know that we are doing this for all the citizens of Athens Limestone County, representing them and saying thanks for them to all these brave men and women who deserve

to hear it. If we had a place that could hold everyone who wants to come and say thanks, we would do that, but for now, we have to focus on our first responders and make sure they have an evening they will remember. We want them to know that we know what they do for us.” Jerry also mentioned that he

is gratified by the swell of support that started in 2015, and has continued on into this year. “We really didn’t know what would happen,” he said. “What started out as a way to support the men and women in blue grew to what it is today, and I am just glad that we can show the other First Responders how much we are behind them.”

These are the kinds of things that make me glad that I live in Athens, Alabama, and I want to thank all of you who are expressing your gratitude in such a grand and abundant manner. It is my joy to stand with you as you stand with all our First Responders, and we all stand together.

I had a chance to chat with Jerry Barksdale about the event, which is coming up on June 3rd. He had the following to say: “It is not just the police who rush to danger. Others, do too, and they de-

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From the Alabama Veterans’ Museum

“Happy” Memorial Day? Not!! by Sandra Thompson, Director, Alabama Veterans’ Museum

I have never understood why anyone would say “Happy Memorial Day.” To me, there is nothing at all “happy” about our men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Memorial Day is a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle. Hard to believe the year has gone by, and it is time once again to honor our fallen at our annual Memorial Day “Laying Of The Wreath” ceremony. This year’s special guest speaker will be Lieutenant General David L. Mann, Commanding General USASMDC/ARSTRAT. LTG David L. Mann assumed command of the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command/Army Forces Strategic Command and Joint Functional Component Command for Integrated Missile Defense in August 2013. He is a Distinguished Military Graduate of Gettysburg

College after graduating from Millersville University in 1981. He has served in a variety of command and staff assignments, both in the continental United States and overseas. Most recently, he served as the Commanding General of the U.S. Army Recruiting Command at Fort Knox, KY. Before that he served as the Commanding General, 32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command, a theater-level air and missile defense (AMD) organization responsible for executing global operations in support of the Combatant Commands (COCOMs). Additional command assignments include: Battalion Commander, 2nd Battalion, 44th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, KY., where elements of the battalion deployed to Kosovo in support of Operation Joint Guardian; Brigade Commander, 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, XVIII Airborne Corps where he deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom; and as the Commanding General, White Sands Missile Range, N.M.

Previous staff assignments include: Aide-de-Camp to the Commanding General, 24th Infantry Division (Mechanized), Fort Stewart, GA.; Battalion Operations Officer, 1st Battalion, 3rd Air Defense Artillery (BSFV/Stinger), 4th Infantry Division (Mechanized) where he deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, as part of Joint Task Force 160; Operations Research and Systems Analysis Officer, Directorate of Program Analysis and Evaluation, Pentagon; Aide-de-Camp to the Vice Chief of Staff of the Army; Senior Planner with duty on the Operation Enduring Freedom Current Operations Team, the Joint Staff following the events of 9-11; Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Defense Artillery Center, Fort Bliss, TX.; and as the Deputy Commanding General, U.S. Army Recruiting Command, Fort Knox, KY. LTG Mann holds a Master of Science in Engineering Management from George Washington University and a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College. His awards and

The American Veterans (AMVETS) will once again be putting up flags for the "Flags over Athens" program.

Badges. Our program will be held on Monday, May 30th at 11AM at the Limestone County Event Center. This year in addition to our ceremony, we will be providing lunch to our veterans and an opportunity for each of our service organizations to tell everyone what their organization is all about. We sincerely hope you will join us. For further information call 256-771-7578.

It is once again time to place flags on our Veterans graves for Memorial Day. If you would like to help with this program, please contact the Alabama Veterans Museum at 256-771-7578.

Iif you would like to help with this program, contact Larry Stark at 256-444-2793. Page 10

decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal (oak leaf cluster), Legion of Merit (three oak leaf clusters), Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (four oak leaf clusters), Army Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal (oak leaf cluster), Army Achievement Medal (oak leaf cluster), Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Recruiter Badge, and the Joint and Army Staff Identification

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May 20 - June 2, 2016

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Clean and Green

Are You Smarter Than Our 5th Graders? by Lynne Hart Test Your Knowledge and Win a Prize Package Over the past few months, Leigh Patterson and I have taken an Environmental Jeopardy game into our Athens City and Limestone County Schools. Every 5th and 6th grade class participated to see who knew the most about the environment and the part we play in protecting or harming it. Several of the same questions were asked at Earth Day recently as adults and students tested their knowledge

in order to receive door prize tickets. Now we'd like to present some of these questions to you! KALB has put together a prize package of items which we will give away to someone who correctly answers all of the questions. All correct entries will be placed in a drawing to win the prize. Once you've completed your answers, follow instructions at the end of this article to send us your entry. OK, put your 5th grade thinking caps on, or just grab a 5th grader to help you!

CIRCLE or ENTER the correct answers: Question 1: If you leave litter under the bleacher seat at a sporting event, is that littering even though someone may be paid to come and clean up? Yes or No Question 2: How many times can glass bottles and jars be recycled without losing quality? 15, 150, 1,500, or endlessly? Question 3: What percentage of plastic created makes its way to the ocean? 1%, 5%, 10%, or 15%? Question 4: If you find a sick or injured bird, is it ok to take it home to nurse back to health? Yes or No Question 5: Approximately 40 species of snakes live in the State of Alabama. How many of them are venomous? 3, 6, 9, or 11 Question 6: How many trees are saved from being destroyed for every ton of paper recycled? 2, 5, 17, or 21 Question 7: Once an aluminum can has been recycled, how long will it take for it to become a fresh, new can on a store shelf? 6 weeks, 3 months, or 6 months Question 8: Which of the following statements is true about native plants? A. They provide the right food for native insects, birds, and wildlife. B. They are adapted to the local environment and require less care. C. They will not attract non-native insects and wildlife which could disrupt the balance of the ecosystem. D. They will not become invasive and choke out your garden. E. All of the above. Question 9: What very important pollinator is suffering from Colony Collapse Disorder? Answer: ______________________ Question 10: Name three things that trees provide that make them vitally important to humans and our environment? 1.____________________________ 2______________________________ 3____________________________ BONUS QUESTION: Name one change you have made personally in the past year to increase your effort to protect the environment _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________

Become a Fan

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

We will answer all of these questions and announce the winner in a future issue. All entries must be delivered or postmarked by June 4, 2016. Winning entry will be drawn no later than June 10, 2016. MAIL ENTRIES: KALB Quiz, P.O. Box 1089, Athens, AL 35611 EMAIL Scanned Entries: KALBCares@gmail.com Bring them to the KALB office at 125 East Street in Athens.

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May 20 - June 2, 2016

Cooking with Shelley

Backyard Baked Beans by Shelley Underhill

They are called that because the best place to eat them is in the backyard under a shade tree, with a lot of other summertime foods to consume. They are also best cooked in some kind of cast-iron contraption! This recipe is sure to delight you, and keep them coming back for more. You can email your questions to shelleysdesk@gmail.com. Enjoy!

Backyard Baked Beans 4 cans of pork and beans, drained ½ cup of smoked sausage, cut up into small chunks 1 large onion, finely chopped ½ cup brown sugar ½ cup ketchup ¼ cup yellow mustard ¼ cup Dale’s liquid seasoning 8 red pepper flakes Salt and pepper to taste Fry down onions and sausage. Add the remaining ingredients to pan or pot. Bring to a boil. Reduce and simmer for one hour, stirring often.

May 20 - June 2, 2016

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Health and Fitness

â€œMy Lower Back Hurtsâ€? by Janet Hunt Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment. Seems like almost everyone has lower back pain at some time. Matter of fact it is one of the top causes of missed work in this country. Lower back pain can range from just a dull ache to shooting pains. Lower back pain can make it difficult to move or even stand up straight. Acute pain comes on suddenly and is often the result of an injury or heavy lifting. Chronic pain is pain over a long period. Both acute and chronic lower back pain need to be checked by a doctor. The kind of back pain that follows heavy lifting or exercising too hard is often caused by muscle strain. But sometimes the back pain can be related to a disc that bulges or ruptures (often called a herniated disk). If a bulging or ruptured disk presses on the sciatic nerve, pain

may run from the buttock down one leg. This is called sciatica. Sometimes a job that involves lifting, pulling, or anything that twists the spine, may contribute to back pain. However, sitting at a desk all day can be a problem, too. A purse, backpack, or briefcase over your shoulder can cause back pain because it is the lower back that supports the upper body and anything you carry. Overdoing it during exercise or playing a sport such as golf may result in back pain as well, especially if you tend to be inactive most other times. Poor posture is also a problem. Your back supports weight best when you don't slouch. This means sitting with good lumbar support, shoulders back, and your feet resting on a low stool. Being overweight and an inac-

tive lifestyle can contribute to low back pain. Back pain due to muscle strain will usually get better on its own. A heating pad or warm bath may provide temporary pain relief. You may not feel like getting out of bed when your back hurts, but if the problem is muscle strain, often doctors recommend returning to your normal activities as soon as possible. Often, bed rest can actually make the pain worse by losing muscle tone and flexibility. If pain does not go away after a few months, yoga or other conventional stretching exercises may help. Make sure your instructor is experienced at working with people with back pain and can modify postures and stretches for you. Massage therapy may relieve chronic low back pain, especially when

combined with exercise and stretching. Lower back pain can often be helped with over the counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen.

Pain-relieving creams may be helpful for muscle aches. For severe pain or chronic pain, your doctor may recommend prescription medication. If medications are not helping, injections into the back may help. Injections usually contain steroids. If long-lasting back pain is interfering with your daily life, and other treatments have not provided relief, you may be a candidate for surgery or physical therapy. A physical therapist can show you stretches, strength exercises, and low-impact cardio exercises that may relieve pain and strengthen your back. There's no sure way to prevent back pain as you age, but the steps to lower your risk include staying at a healthy weight, exercising regularly, lifting with your legs, not your back, and making sure your work station position isn't contributing to your pain.

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May 20 - June 2, 2016

Cover Story

C&L Discount: The Best Kept Outlet Secret In The Tennessee Valley by Ali Elizabeth Turner

season, and he said, “Make up. We have the best prices on make up in town.” Other best sellers include Pepperidge Farm bread for 99 cents a loaf, Hormel chili, Spam with jalapenos, Bush’s baked beans, and canned tomatoes. They also have a good selection of hardback and paperback books at deeply discounted prices. Additionally, C&L carries luggage, paint, and even a couple of tents.

continued from page 1

near the entrance, and serves as a landmark for all to see. Country Lane, or C&L Discount, is housed in what had once been the fabrication site for a trailer manufacturing plant, and the gamble-roofed façade was added once it became a discount store. Craig Robinson manages the place, Nina Routh works mostly in the front, Christie Miller and Jerry Roberts work largely in the back, and the whole crew makes you feel like you are a neighbor shopping in an old time mercantile. Wanda Bogus rounds out the team, and everyone makes sure that C&L offers great customer service. “We started out as a small country store, and have kept growing ever since,” Craig told me. C&L carries overstock of all kinds, dented cans, buyouts, close dated products, and non-perishable groceries. Then they expanded into building supplies. There is a trade secret to all of this, I was told by Craig, and of course, he didn’t divulge. He did tell me one thing: “We can get a whole truckload of toilet paper,” he said, and “because of volume we can pass along the savings.” One of the things that makes C&L so much fun is that you never know what will have been unpacked from the truckload. “We have had kosher products from NY,” said Craig, “and caviar.” He also went on to tell me that they have had all kinds of flavors of chili con carne from Texas, and Cuban food from Miami. There is a great selection of spices, as well as genuine Perrier, plain and flavored. “We have been

May 20 - June 2, 2016

Earlier this spring, C&L added furniture to their inventory. There are bedroom suites, tables and chairs, end tables, book cases, and more. Most of the furniture is either by Acme or Whalen. In addition, there are couches, loveseats, and recliners. There are unique items, such as a bedroom suite

styles. The prices start at 55 cents per sq. ft. Craig says that flooring is a growing part of the business. Lastly, one of the things Craig and C&L are most pleased to provide is roofing supplies. “We have the absolute best prices on roofing, and it’s made by Owens Corning,” he said. Roofing is the “bread and butter” of all the types of items carried by C &L. They also have everything from basic 3 tab 20 year to lifetime architectural shingles, and they do deliver. Additionally, they have a list of trustworthy installers. He emphasized the fact that none of the installers gets a fee from C&L, and it’s up to the client to call the installers. For do it yourselfers, C & L carries all of the

called a ‘Little Sam’s Club’, and if you don’t buy it when you see it, chances are, it won’t be there when you come back,” said Craig.

by green stickers, and have been very popular. I asked Craig what had been C&L’s “surprise success” for this

One of their newest features is what they call “the Rack.” It is a centrally located set of shelves where you can buy items by the case, and then receive a 15% discount. They are marked

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for a child that looks like a boat. The bow of the boat serves as a storage space for toys. They also carry kitchen cabinets, and some brand new side by side refrigerators. There are beautiful bathroom vanities, and nearly no end of flooring options. There is ceramic tile, and the tiles range in price from 59 cents to $2.99. There is also first quality laminate flooring in 19 colors, and those prices are 79 cents to $1.99 per square foot. Vinyl comes in rolls; 8’, 12’, 13’2”, and 16’4” in width. C &L carries brand name carpeting with a large selection of colors and

supplies needed to do the job right. If you are looking for a friendly place to shop, so you can find the best bargains around, come to Country Lane, or C&L Discount, for short. And, you’ll find yourself coming back again and again.

Country Lane Discount 16800 US Hwy 72 Athens, AL 35611 Hours: Mon-Fri, 8-5, Sat, 8-4 Facebook: Country Lane Discount Page 15

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May 20 - June 2, 2016

Cover Story

PSI: Thirty Years Long And Staying Strong by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

Tennessee Valley that would last, and they both had the dedication to make it so. It’s 30 years later, and the combination of blessing and determination has paid off in the form of a true legacy. Though Mr. Will passed in 2006, and Miss Helen no longer comes into the office as she did for decades, the results of their solid work ethic have attracted a whole new generation of like-minded folks who are carrying on the Evans’ vision. Dan Mankins joined the staff of PSI in 2003, and after Will passed, Miss Helen asked Dan to run it. He bought the business in 2012 and became CEO, (while we were still clearly in the recession), and steered PSI through that storm. The construction business is a tough one, whether it be “green times or lean times,” and Dan is thankful for all that has happened, all they have been able to accomplish, and all that he has learned. “We have been able to increase our crew by 20%,” he said, and went on to tell me about some of their current projects, which I’ll discuss later. Some things have changed since Dan became CEO. Previously, design build pre-en-

gineered metal buildings constituted the majority of their projects. “Now about 50% of our projects are stick built,” he said. Their focus is also now on commercial structures. Dan is quick to talk about his crew, and knows full well that PSI would not be planning a 30 year anniversary party in July without them. He is glad to have the opportunity to continue to work with people that he considers the best. Jeff Jeffreys is in charge of the construction side of PSI, and has more than 30 years of experience in the industry. “Jeff is one of the most knowledgeable construction people I have ever been associated with,” Dan says. The chief

builder Kenneth Hogan has been with PSI since 1997, and Kris Walker and Joe Green are ones who Dan is confident will carry the business forward for many years. Monica Jackson does the drafting and design work, and her artistic abilities are crucial to the success of each new project. Rounding out the management team is Leah Faulk, Dan’s sister-inlaw, who runs the office and does the accounting. Leah and I got to chat about the day to day operations, and she said, “Our guys in the field work so hard. Just last week several of them put in more than 55 hours. We could not get it done without them.” It is because of the crew that

PSI has been able to keep growing, and some of the recent and current projects include: • City Hall- They handled the masonry, veneer, structural steel, HVAC, hard tile, cabinetry, sheet rock, exterior glass, and glazing. Most folks know that the pillars were one of the toughest parts of the whole project, as the ones first sent by the sub-contractor just weren’t up to PSI’s or anyone else’s standards. However, the “sub” finally got it right, and the result is beautiful. • Champion Chevrolet- There is an extensive overhaul and remodel of the showroom

The future looks bright for Premier Structures, and seeing as our city was recently voted #1 in the State of Alabama for recruiting new businesses, hopefully the next 30 years will continue to provide opportunities for PSI to continue to build our community,

project estimator and safety coordinator is Ronnie Britton, who has been with PSI since the very beginning. “He’s the guy who pays sharp attention to detail and keeps us in good shape with OSHA and compliance with the newest safety regulations,” he said. Veteran

going on, and one of the responsibilities of a construction company is to find the least disruptive way to get the job done while maintaining “business as usual.” PSI has managed to make that happen for them in part due to the sequence they used in phase work, or project management. Construction has been underway for about 8 months, and the good news is that Champion is pleased, as is Dan.

May 20 - June 2, 2016

• Another major and important project has been the addition to the Limestone County Detention Center. There’s a lot to consider and accomplish with something of this unique nature-the place has to be secure and formidable, while still functioning well near a residential area, and PSI got it done.

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literally. Congratulations on your 30th anniversary, and thank you for all your hard work!

Premier Structures Incorporated

2311 South Hine Street PO Box 927 Athens, AL 35612 256-232-2092 Page 17

Learning As A Lifestyle

Israel Awaits by Wanda Campbell

Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 The Center for Lifelong Learning is taking a group to Israel in November. There are still spaces for the trip. All you need is a $500 deposit, and you will be on your way! People have asked me if I am worried. The answer is maybe, but not today. I know there is plenty of unrest in the area, but most of the areas we will visit are tourist areas. There has never been much scary activity in the tourist areas. Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Iran, Yemen, and Saudi Arabia are far away – like from here to Texas far away.

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Jerusalem is the biblical Holy Land for Muslims, Jews, and Christians. In the older part of the city, the Temple Mount complex has shrines to each faith – The Dome of the Rock, a shrine of Islam; the Western Wall, which is sacred to Judaism; the Al-Aqsa Mosque is one of Islam’s holiest shrines; and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre which is supposed to be where Jesus was buried. With so much that means something to every faith, it is unlikely that I need to be worried about my trip. I am really excited that November 7th is almost

here, just a few more months. I am looking forward to visiting other cities in Israel too. Bethlehem, Cana, the Sea of Galilee, and Mount Zion. We will spend two days in Tel Aviv, the modern financial district of Israel. This is the place for shopping, eating, and discovering historical sites. Day three, we will travel to Jaffa, an ancient port city built by the Romans. In Caesarea we will visit the center of Christianity where Paul and Peter were held prisoner. Then on to Nazareth to visit Jesus' boyhood city. And this is just the beginning. We still have three more

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days of wonderful things to see. If you have any questions about this trip, please call me at 256-233-8262. I would love to answer your questions, and sign you up for the trip of a lifetime. If you are still not convinced Israel is the trip for you, how about a trip to Gettysburg? Deposits for the trip to Gettysburg are due June 1, we have to have 30 to go. Just $100 will save your spot on the seven day, six night trip. We will be visiting the Battlefields of Gettysburg. We will be visiting the Pennsylvania Dutch

country of Lancaster, PA. And we will stop by the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC. For a full itinerary, check out our web site or call me at 256-8262. The fee is just $699/person for double occupancy. I am in the process of planning the 2017 day trips and our Christmas trip. If you have suggestions for day trips or overnight trips, you can call me at 256-2338262. Whether you are taking a trip or taking a class, learning is an everyday thing. I hope you will come learn with me.

May 20 - June 2, 2016

What Makes Ronnie Roll

Athens, The Ama-ZING! by Ali Elizabeth Turner Earlier this week, Mayor Ronnie and several City Hall staff members had the opportunity to attend the annual Alabama League of Municipalities conference, and this year it was held in Huntsville. As a bit of background, there are 460 towns and cities in our state, and 449 of them belong to the League. Over 900 people were present, and there were exhibits, breakout sessions, superb speeches, and even a guy who did an impersonation of Barney Fife. Mayor Ronnie is almost always “fired up” when he comes in for our interviews, but today he was positively soaring. One of the best speakers from the conference was a fellow by the name of Jim Hunt, who is with the National League of Municipalities. Jim is going to be coming out with a book soon, and I do believe what Mr. Hunt has to say, and how it has inspired our Mayor, will end up being a rich series. Mr. Hunt gave a presentation which served in part as the title of this Ronnie. He talked about making sure your city had ZING! What is ZING? It is all the “astonishing, striking, surprising, brilliant, stunning, impressive, overwhelming, staggering, sensational” things that can be used by visitors and residents alike to describe your city. We have so many, but one honor that was granted to Athens this year is that we are #1 in all of Alabama for industrial recruitment. That is especially encouraging when we are surrounded by the exact opposite elsewhere. The League of Munici-

May 20 - June 2, 2016

palities serves as a support system for cities and towns so that they might become their best “selves.” They do so in a number of ways. “They have an excellent legal staff that is available to us all the time,” said Mayor Ronnie. They also have a similar staff that helps with the ins and outs of finance and regulations. Ronnie also said that he was grateful for the legal and financial staff that we have right here serving the City of Athens. There is also an outstanding League staff down in Montgomery that has been of help to us. Our Mayor serves on several League committees, and has been asked once again to serve this year. They include the executive, legislative, and finance committees, and it’s something he enjoys greatly. “During the year, we come up with proposals to make legislative statements,” he said, and is experience in Montgomery years ago has been most helpful.

Ronnie did one on texting and driving, and another on bullying. Those will be aired soon, so watch for social media and the Communications Office to announce the venue and broadcast times. What else “brings the ZING?” “Attitude,” he told me as he showed me the slide that gave a simple command: “Focus on your city’s potential instead of its limitations.” I especially liked the use of the word “limitations” as opposed to “problems.” Even that is a more posi-

tive way of approaching what can be done to empower neighborhoods to bring their own ZING, to cause light to triumph over darkness. Mr. Hunt also asked a powerful question, actually, two of them: What is your brand? What do you want people to remember? Our brand is Classic. Southern. Character. We possess all three in abundance, and speaking for self as someone who has only been here for 16 years, we also exude life and all its possibilities. I

love Athens so deeply because it is Ama-ZING, and I want people to remember our history and all the progress we have made on so many fronts. There’s much to do, and much that has been done. Our time “zinged” by, and was over. Mayor Ronnie’s heart was full, we made our next appointment, we prayed, and then, once again it was time for Ronnie to roll.

One of the roles of the League is to function as a watchdog with regard to Federal and State programs, mandates and programs, whether good or bad, and to “get the word out” to League members so they can protect and/or strengthen their respective towns and cities, and respond well to what comes down the pike. Another League role is to give top notch leadership training to city employees so they can be better at running the city. The League sponsored opportunities at the conference to make PSAs, or Public Service Announcements. Mayor

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Horse Whispering

Preparation by Deb Kitchenmaster I’m not “horsing around.” The month of May can be a month packed with many things to prepare for. Are you preparing for a graduation party? How about a memorial service? Perhaps you are preparing for a horse show or a trail ride with friends this summer. Preparation is a management principle where we get ready for a “final accomplishment or a successful experience.” In the midst of our preparation zone, we have many choices, decisions, and options. There aren’t “rights” and “wrongs,” but rather “yeses” and “nos”. I have several graduations to attend this year, celebrating the accomplishment of beloved friends and family. However, I would not be attending the ceremonies or the open houses if there had not been people involved in the preparation of these festive events. A girlfriend of forty years called and asked if she could come for a visit. I excitedly responded with a “Yes!” She’s from Iowa, but please don’t hold that against her. (I’m only kidding; I was born and raised in Iowa.) This gal was born in Germany. She was given up for adoption when she was six months old. A couple from Iowa, working through a Catholic organization, chose this little two and a half year old girl, and made her their daughter. In the ‘50s, four little orphans were placed on a plane in Germany, and landed in Davenport, Iowa. In the ‘80s, Chris (whose birth name is Vera), through the translation assistance of her family doctor, (who was from Germany and spoke fluent German,) completed a phone

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was cancelled due to weather, but it’s on the books for when she returns. When we engage in preparation, included is purpose, priority, “the plan,” and sometimes weather. Corral Connections has made preparation each and every time an event is scheduled. That event may be a one-on-one session, or a group. Another word for preparation is traincall to Germany. The search to “connect” and “discover” was on, and this delightful woman was blessed to eventually meet her grandmother, her biological dad, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Her birth mother was deceased. In April of this year, Chris was contacted by a cousin who had helped with translation during the first trip to Germany where Chris re-united with her birth family. The cousin ing. Horses are in training through our communications with them, and the leadership skills we bring as we connect. Humans are in training in righteousness. When a human experiences an inner shift from “being right” to “being righteous,” the entire earth is blessed because this shift affects relationships. With horses, the handler is is now living in the United States, and used social media to search for Chris. She found Chris, and guess where the cousin is living? Huntsville, Alabama! Miracles happen daily. Whether we believe those three words or not has no effect on how God continues to move and work. Seeing the miraculous is like seeing true beauty. Chris and her cousin Doris had a beautiful reunion! A horse session

instructed in groundwork. Groundwork is another word for preparation. The horse is moving its feet. The human is being still, but moving into leadership. How amazing is that! One final word to define preparation is homework. More times than not, a home work assignment is given. Its purpose is to encourage an individual to remember, “walk it out”, or to build the confidence that comes from dignity, value, and worth as was revealed through the finished word of Jesus Christ on the cross. Horses hooves are shod with metal plates we call shoes. According to the Word of God, our feet are to be shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. Gospel simply means “good news,” the good news of starting a relationship that develops into a partnership. Yes, our relationship with Abba Father runs parallel with our relationship with our horse. I close with this quote: “At its finest, rider and horse are joined not by tack, but by trust. Each is totally reliant upon the other. Each is the selfless guardian of the other’s very well-being.” Author Unknown Enjoy your preparation time as you eye-witness your relationship develop into a partnership. Your NEIGHbor, Deb Kitchenmaster Corral Connections www.corralconnections.com ‘A church of great heart’ 256-426-7947 Animal B.E.S.T. practitioner dkitchenmaster@mchsi.com

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May 20 - June 2, 2016

Jerry’s Journal

Why The Chicken Crossed The Road by Jerry Barksdale

Retirement gives me time to think about matters of great consequence. Recently, while kicked back in my Lazy Boy knock-off and admiring my big toe, I experienced an epiphany – a great moment of truth: I have solved the answer to the age-old question of why the chicken crossed the road. It’s all about timing. If your timing is off, either good or bad consequences will follow. For instance, if Grandma Ada Isom had refused to marry Grandpa Ed Barksdale in 1896 because she was offended by him spitting tobacco juice in the fireplace, nine children, 29 grandchildren and more than a hundred direct descendants wouldn’t exist - including me. Four generations wiped out because of a “chaw” of Red Man.

a.m. on November 3rd. It would have been just another ordinary morning of breakfasting on biscuits and sawmill gravy for them. Instead, I was born on the kitchen table. Or what if the tiny tadpole-looking critters that dwelled in my parents plumbing system hadn’t come out to play, got acquainted and hooked up? What if, instead of them swimming upstream like salmon to spawn, they had mistakenly swam to the exit? I wouldn’t have been conceived. Timing! I could have been born someone else. Or, I could have been born a girl and wore pigtails and cut out paper dolls instead of climbing trees looking for Blue Jay nests. Carried a step further, what if Mama had been born a man and Daddy a woman? Boy! I’d really be screwed up. I could’ve ended up being Catilyn’s

half twin sister. The more I think about timing, the more I worry about what could have been. Timing can change the world. What if the chicken on the way to Noah’s Ark had paused to scratch for a bug and missed boarding? She would’ve drowned in the Great Flood and the species become extinct. The age old question of why the chicken crossed the road would never have been asked by pointy-head and ponytail college professors; nor, which came first, the chicken or the egg? There would no eggs for breakfast and no Easter egg hunts for little children. What a sad world it could have been. And all because of timing – pausing to scratch for a bug. I can’t do anything about the past, but I worry about the present and the future. My every act has consequences. For instance, I

usually drive to Athens on Fridays and eat fried catfish at LuVici’s. Would it make any difference what time I depart home, how fast I drive and what route I take? Suppose I depart at 10:45 a.m. I usually drive east on Highway 72, but on a whim, (or perhaps it’s preordained) I turn left on New Cut Road. A chicken darts across the road, I swerve to miss it and collide head on with an oncoming car. The driver, a single father of four children, is killed. He was in a jealous rage and on his way to shoot his girlfriend, a no good drug dealer and robber, who had jilted him for another man. She was planning to rob a drug store that afternoon. What will happen to the poor orphaned children? Will the woman rob the drug store? Not if he had killed her! What if I had departed home a minute later?

Am I responsible for the terrible consequences? More importantly, why did that darn chicken cross the road? Did she see a June Bug on the other side and run to catch it? Did she overhear a rooster in the chicken house crowing about climate change and rising sea levels, then panic and run looking for Noah’s Ark? I can’t say. However, a witness stated he saw a Rhode Island Red Rooster chasing the hen across the road. A father was killed, four orphaned children and a no-account criminal on the loose, all because of a darn rooster. Now, we know why the chicken crossed the road. Problem solved. Over the years I have chased a few chicks myself. And more than a few times my timing was off – way off.

Thank the Lord, Grandma was in a good humor when Grandpa proposed and let his bad manners slide. That’s how close my family came to not being here. What if, instead, she had married a Yankee Carpetbagger from New Jersey? I could be walking around with a funny sounding name ending in “ski” and saying “youse guys” instead of “ya’ll.” Distressing! Another thought, and even more disturbing, what if Daddy had been “too tired” or Mama had a “headache” back in early February, 1941? I wouldn’t have been born at 9:05

May 20 - June 2, 2016

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Medical Update

Homeopathy: Too Good To Be True? by Rachel Clark, RN, BSN I heard about homeopathy a couple years ago from a friend. At first, the only thing I tried was Arnica, which is typically used for bruising. I’d banged up my knee, and she gave me the remedy and told me to take it, and see what it did. The bruise never did reach the skin surface. From then on, every time I banged up a part of my body (which I do regularly as a nurse), I took Arnica, and haven’t had problems with bruising. In January, I had a traumatic event in my life, and the same friend began searching her books of homeopathic remedies. She found one matching my symptoms, so we tried it. Within 30 minutes, my symptoms had subsided

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and I was no longer in a panic attack and flashing back to the event. Since then, I’ve kept Aconite in my bag so that it was on hand for any potential issues. Then, I decided to take a leap of faith: I made an appointment with a homeopathic doctor for a chronic issue, and saw him six weeks later. As timing would have it, when I went to see him, I was battling a terrible cough, which I was pretty sure was pneumonia. I felt terrible, but I kept the appointment to see him. Turns out, I was right. And the pneumonia wasn’t the only thing I was battling. I spent 3 hours in his office, experienced an unusually high level of individualized patient care, and came away with three different

homeopathic remedies. So what is homeopathy? It is a complementary and alternative treatment focusing on on stimulating the individual’s own ability to heal using treatments from specific symptoms. It is based on the principle that “like cures like,” meaning that the appropriate remedy is selected, and initiates the body’s own healing response. This similar “medicine” acts to stimulate a response, thus giving the body the information it needs to heal itself. Another principle in homeopathic treatment is “minimum dose.” This means that you give only the amount needed to stimulate an initial response, which the body will carry on itself. The practice of homeopa-

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thy has been around for over 200 years, and is extremely popular in Europe, India, and South America. It was developed by Samuel Hahnemann, who was born in Germany 250 years ago. Homeopathy practice is based upon science, but its application is an art, just like any other of the healing arts. It treats the individual, rather than collection of disease labels. More and more people are looking for something more than modern medicine has to offer, and are finding that the traditional disciplines like homeopathy are exactly what they are looking for. According to a physician and researcher at the Royal London Hospital for Integrative Medicine, Dr. Peter Fisher, homeopa-

thy is safe, and reduces the need for antibiotics. He also said in the British Medical Journal that alternative therapies are often misunderstood, and pointed out studies showing that integrating homeopathy with conventional medicines improve clinical outcomes, without increasing costs. It also reduced the use of potentially hazardous drugs. I’m willing to test out homeopathy for myself, and see if it is too good to be true. But I’m looking forward to being pleasantly surprised, yet again, by the healing power of the human body. Given that the option is good enough for even the Queen of England and her family, I figure it’s worth a try for myself.

May 20 - June 2, 2016

Foreman’s Forum

Lessons For The Ladies: Part 1 by Paul Foreman

This edition, I want to give special attention to the ladies. I have more ladies than men attend my NRA pistol classes. Many ladies have a unique set of problems when selecting a handgun for self defense. The main problem is men! Too often, men try to select a gun for their wives or girlfriends. Me-thinks there is a nefarious plot here. Guns are to men like shoes are to women! I think the saying goes, “He who dies with the most guns wins?” Well, there might be a subtle “misquote” there, but I think you get the idea. If a man buys you a new gun and says, “Honey, look at the cool gun I bought for you, I want you to feel safe,” I hope you realize he just bought another gun (for himself).

she needs another pair of shoes!” It took a few minutes for the laughter to die down among the mostly men crowded around the gun counter. The man left with a smile on his face, the wife, not so happy looking, even though she had a show box under her arm.

Several years ago, I was working at a big box sporting goods store selling guns. I was helping a man select a handgun. It was near Christmas and the gun counter was packed with lookers and buyers. The man had selected a Glock 9mm and just as I was finishing up the paperwork, the man’s wife arrived. She asked “What on earth do you need another gun for? You have a whole safe full of guns!” The man looked at me with an expression which said, “Help me!” Well, I just had to put in my two cents worth so I said, “Asking a man why he needs another gun is like asking a woman why

So, to make amends for the error of my ways, I want to offer some serious help for the ladies who want to buy a gun. Choosing a new gun is kind of like selecting a new boat. Whoops, I will say as little about new boats as possible. Forgive me, it’s a man thing. Guns, boats, trucks and dogs; sorry, we just can’t help it. When choosing a boat, you have to ask yourself, “Do I want to cross the Atlantic or paddle up the Elk River? Obviously, the same boat will not do both. It’s the same with guns. There are literally dozens; no hundreds of different sizes of guns. Ladies, you must ask

May 20 - June 2, 2016

yourself a number of questions. A) Is this gun for self defense or target shooting? B) Do you plan to carry the gun concealed on your person or in your purse? Are you going to keep it close by at home in a drawer or safe? C) Are you of slim, light build, or are you a little sturdier? (I’m trying to be careful here) When choosing a gun, size matters. I often hear the ladies say, “Oh, I like

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that small one, I don’t want one that kicks so hard.” This is just the opposite of what they need. Fact: the smaller the size of the gun, the harder it will kick. The small, lightweight gun of the same caliber will have much more recoil than a larger heavier gun. The weight of the heavier, larger gun absorbs the kick or recoil. We also must take into consideration the caliber of the gun. Caliber is the size of the ammunition a specific gun uses. A study of calibers and bullet weights is a whole other lesson. Remember too, the larger caliber will have more ‘knock down power.” Putting that bluntly, the bad guy gets stopped. Have you decided you want to carry concealed? If so, you will want a gun that is easily carried and small and light enough so you won’t decide to leave it at home, because it’s too heavy. Remember, it’s a con-

stant trade off in size, weight and caliber. A small gun will carry fewer bullets. A larger gun such as my Glock will hold sixteen bullets. Glock makes different sizes and calibers. Many popular guns for carrying concealed may only hold seven or eight bullets. There are some very small but powerful guns on the market that only have two shots available before reloading. Higher capacity guns are quite popular right now. But considering the facts of “close encounters of the deadly kind,” two shots are fired and at a distance of less than three yards.

Be on the lookout for part two…

Paul Foreman Retired Deputy Sheriff, Lee County Florida NRA Certified Pistol Instructor. Paul can be reached through e-Mail at Captureman@ PaulForeman.com or his website www.PaulForeman.com

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May 20 - June 2, 2016