November 4th - November 17th, 2016
AthensNowal.com E-MAIL: info@athensnowal.com ADVERTISING: Ali Elizabeth: 256-468-9425
See Our Listings Inside this edition... Pages 25 - 32
Special Feature Sweet Thymes Bakery And Meals To Go: Doing Well And Doing Good... It was in April of 2015 that I had the joy of first interviewing Kelli Minyard and her brother, Jordan Anderson, co-owners of... Page 5
The 30th Annual Athens Christmas Open House: Our Very Own “Miracle” On Marion Street By Ali Elizabeth Turner
It might seem odd in a drought with near record temperatures to be thinkContinued on page 15
Cooking With Tammy A Healthier Holiday Maple Pumpkin Cheesecake... There are ways to make a rich dessert healthier, and this one is my family’s favorite... Page 13
Medical East: Urgent Care At Its Best
Special Feature Bill Daws: A Working Commissioner For All The Citizens Of District 4... Bill Daws was born and raised in Limestone County and graduated from... Page 19
November 4 - November 17, 2016
By Ali Elizabeth Turner Dr. David Purner of the Medical East Urgent Care facility in Athens was born in Johnson City, TN, and received his undergraduate as well as medical school training at East Tennessee State University. During the Vietnam era, he served in the Continued on pages 17
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November 4 - November 17, 2016
Publisher’s Point
Salt And Light
Publisher / Editor Ali Turner
Copy Editor Rachel Clark
Graphic Design
Jonathan Hamilton
Web Design Teddy Wolcott
Contributing Writers Janet Hunt Lynne Hart Wanda Campbell Paul Foreman Tammy Wilkinson Teresa Todd Rosemary Dewar Joel Allen Shanna Ndong, MD Jerry Barksdale
This week, in a way that I don’t remember in my 63 years, things are melting down around us on a hourly basis. I prayerfully thought, “What am I going to say? By the time we go to print, my thoughts could very well be a complete non sequitur, maybe more so than usual. People are flat done with this election cycle, even in Limestone County. I can’t bear the ‘nails-on-the-chalkboard’ sound of Hillary Clinton’s voice one more moment, and I am fully comfortable as an Alabamian being a ‘bitter clinger,’ contented-
I thrashed around for awhile, and then two words came to mind: salt and light. No matter what happens on November 8th, there is a very real way that nothing will change. We still have the responsibility to be salt and light wherever we are. But, what does that mean? Let’s talk about salt first. What is the purpose of salt? To give you high blood pressure? No, salt basically has two functions: to preserve as well as to add flavor. For centuries, before there was refrigeration, salt was what kept the humans of our planet from starving to death in the winter. Meat was salted so it wouldn’t
missing in action. If one chooses to stretch the concept of “preserving” just a touch, here are some other things salt can do: get rid of flower residue in a vase, keep wicker looking new, give long life to a broom, remove wine or grease stains from your carpet, empower you to make your own brass polish, remove water marks from wood, and even restore a sponge! So, here’s the obvious life lesson: if your personal nightmare is that Hillary becomes President, then make yourself useful in a tangible way. For heaven’s sake, and I do mean that literally, don’t let your
minates, light guides, it warms, it cooks, it cuts through steel as well as aneurisms. It is the cousin of sound, it is the basis of color, it helps plants grow, it sanitizes, and it refreshes. If your idea of complete disaster is having Donald move out of his hotel into the White House, then “let your light so shine before men,” and make sure that your light is indeed light, and is in no way part of the darkness you see all around you. Choose to preserve and serve, warm and guide as you are feeling led from on high; then live or die, you will be just fine.
Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 6 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 8 The Millennial Mind . . . . . . 9 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Tammy . . . . 13 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 14 Cover Stories . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . 18 Special Feature . . . . . . . . 19 Dog Barker . . . . . . . . . 20
ly experiencing life in my condo on the top floor of the Deplorable Basket. The view from there is glorious. What can I say that will be true to the purpose of Athens Now, and that is to bring ‘information and inspiration’ to our readers?”
Jerry's Journal . . . . . . . 21 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Foreman's Forum . . . . . . . . 23
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spoil. And, we have all had that experience of eating something that “needed salt.” There can be such a strong sense of “so close, and yet so far,” when you eat something that is unable to burst forth with flavor because its powerful ally is
"salt lose its savour.” If you do, you are asking for being trod under in a rather unpleasant manner, and that warning comes from the One who loves you most. What about light? What does it do? Light illu-
Ali Elizabeth Turner Athens Now Information & Inspiration 256-468-9425 ali@athensnowal.com Website: www.athensnowal.com
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All Things Soldier
Is Mast A Must For Congress? by Ali Elizabeth Turner Since my time in Iraq, I have come to the conclusion that all things being equal, if you have two candidates running for the same office, and one has been in combat, I will choose the one that has literally been battle tested. Add to that category a candidate that served as a field bomb disposal tech who left two legs and an index finger in Afghanistan, and I think you just may have someone who is more than ready to go duke it out in Washington, even if he has no political experience. Such seems to be the case with Brian Mast, a husband, father, 12-year Army veteran double-amputee, and a Harvard graduate who is openly Christian. He is run-
ning for the seat that was vacated when Allen West lost to Democrat Patrick Murphy. By any definition, Brian Mast is a hero, and these days, we could use one. Brian began to plan his Harvard educational career with the purpose of running for political office even before he was fitted with prosthetics, and he graduated with honors this past spring. He tells of something that to him was unashamedly providential that occurred while he was still bed-ridden, and had not yet seen his family. He had a childhood friend that he had not seen since graduation, and he woke up to see his friend, a member of the hospital staff, leaning over him. Needless to say, the reunion took on far more meaning than, “Hey, we should get together sometime.” His friend became integral in Brian’s recovery, was a link to the family, and had Brian’s wife send him a picture taken while Brian still had two legs. The friend had the photo enlarged, and taped it on the end of Brian’s bed where his legs would have blocked the view if they hadn’t been blown off. The boys had a vision, and they were not about to be deterred. It was a long hard battle, both the physical therapy as well as attending Harvard, and with the characteristic humility of Special Forces soldiers, Brian says, “I got off easy. All I lost was my legs and my index finger.” He entered Harvard’s Extension program, which also had a residency requirement, and the hills of Boston were tough. He found that all the discipline he learned in the Special Forces, especially in dealing with explosives,
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helped him get through. His major was economics, something that might have a novel level of usefulness if makes it to the Beltway. His opponent’s biggest objection is that Brian shows his artificial legs off too much, and has no experience. I’m sorry, but the guy is from Florida, and cargo shorts are simply what you wear, whether your legs are titanium or flesh. As far as the lack of political experience is concerned, can you say, Mr. Smith Goes To Washington? However, what I find the most interesting is that Brian Mast was essentially portrayed by Harvard as their Golden Boy. Now, Harvard is not exactly well known for being soldier friendly, but they just don’t seem to be able to help themselves when it comes to Brian Mast. Here’s what they have to say: “Much like a Boy Scout with his Midwest manners, he’ll
often volunteer directions and point out sites on campus to visitors. Mitt Romney went to that business school. Henry David Thoreau spent his freshman year in that hall.” I think what gets me the most about this guy is that he has a strong sense of the need to hand off an honorable legacy for his children. Forget the political career, he wants to be a good husband and dad. “I’m setting an example for my kids by saying you know what, I finished my degree at Harvard University,” says Brian. “Not only did I finish my degree there, but to some degree I hope that I’m teaching you that it’s never too late to redefine yourself.” In the most brutally trashy election season ever, this soldier has given me hope, and if you want to help him “go to Washington,” his website is brianmastforcongress.com.
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Special Feature
Sweet Thymes Bakery And Meals To Go: Doing Well And Doing Good by Ali Elizabeth Turner It was in April of 2015 that I had the joy of first interviewing Kelli Minyard and her brother, Jordan Anderson, co-owners of Sweet Thymes Bakery and Meals to Go. Sweet Thymes is located at 407 North Clinton Street, just south of Persell Lumber. They opened for business in October 2014, and just celebrated their second anniversary by hav-
ing a booth at the 50th Fiddlers’ Convention. Kelli and Jordan, with the help of friends and family, converted what had once been a crack house near the railroad tracks in Athens into a most pleasant eatery. Since that time their business has grown for what I think are two reasons: they are just as committed to doing well as they are to doing good. The result is that they are “busy and blessed.” What do I mean by “doing well and doing good?” “Doing well” means working hard, building your clientele base, finding out what people want and need, and providing it for them. “Doing good” means the ways you give back, and the heart you have to strengthen your community. Sweet Thymes does both, and their crew helps them. They have worked hard to fix up the building, and you would never know that it was once used for purposes that were far less than honorable.
The day I was in the shop for the interview, a customer came in whose spouse is in the thick of a battle with cancer. Kelli told me, “Our food is one of the few things that tastes good to him because of the chemo.” I know for a fact that Kelli understands that the first ingredient of anything she makes for her customers has to be love, and making
food for this family that is going through such a tough time is making a difference. Word has gotten around, and many businesses in town have Sweet Thymes do their lunches. If the order is at least $40, they will even deliver if it’s in the immediate Athens area. Below is an example of a recent menu, which change daily and are posted on Facebook, along with the phone number to call in the order: Chicken Casserole Chicken Alfredo Baked Ham Sub or Plate Honey Pecan Chicken Greek Chicken Pasta w/ cherry tomatoes,
November 4 - November 17, 2016
spinach, & basil Greek Grilled Chicken Taco Chicken Quesadilla Wrap w/ toppings choice Spinach Salad with choice of toppings and/ or meat (extra charge) Hot Sides: Sautéed Mushrooms Cream Corn Loaded
Grits Casserole Garlic Mashed Potatoes Brown Sugar Bourbon Carrots Sautéed Cabbage Roasted Brussel Sprouts Sautéed Asparagus Squash & Onions Roasted Cauliflower Toppings Choice: Cheese, Mushrooms, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Onions, Bell Peppers, Bacon, Pepperoncini Peppers, Pickles, Jalapeno Peppers, Banana Peppers. Dressings: Sriracha Ranch, Blue Cheese, or our Homemade Ranch. Cold Salads: Chicken Salad
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Pasta Salad Broccoli Salad Strawberry Pretzel Salad Pimento Cheese Jalapeno Pimento Cheese Peach Pretzel Salad Wedge Salad (cheese, bacon crumbles, and choice of herbed ranch or blue cheese dressing) Breads: Cornbread Herb and Cheese Biscuits Rosemary Rolls Croissant Desserts: Roasted Peanuts (gallon bag $5) Chocolate Cobbler Drinks: Sweet or Unsweet Tea Coke Products Bottled Water I had the honey pecan chicken, the squash and onions, and the garlic mashed potatoes. Oh, I never wanted it to end. I sat outside at the picnic table, and enjoyed the morning glories that were growing on the fence. And then reluctantly I went back to work. One of the things that makes the food so good is that Jordan grows the herbs right there on site. Kelli told me recently that they heard from a customer that “she could taste the fresh herbs, and it made all the difference.”
The catering side of Sweet Thymes has really taken off. They have done wedding receptions at Athens State, Rotary lunches, proms, showers, retirement parties, and more. Here is a comment from a satisfied customer: Catered my son’s Thanksgiving party at school and everything was so organized! Everyone’s plate had their name on it they even sent an extra plate of food just in case we needed it! Plenty of sauces and utensils included!! I heard so many comments through out the party at how amazing the food tasted! We were all blown away! Speaking of Thanksgiving and the holidays, orders are beginning to pour in. Kelli will be making everything from cakes and pies to turkeys and hams to what she calls “full on meals.” Remember, everything is made from scratch and with love, and you will have a sweet time enjoying the fare of Sweet Thymes Bakery and Meals to go.
Sweet Thymes 407 North Clinton, Athens, AL 35611 Phone: 256-444-4142 FAX: 256-444-4143 Hours: Tue-Fri 10:30-2:00 Facebook: Sweet Thymes
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Calendar of Events Veterans Day Parade Nov 5th
Roxanne Haggermaker, along with area veterans' organizations invites the public to come recognize and honor the service and sacrifice of all veteran and active duty military personnel. To learn about registering a float, marching band, group or individual participant, please call Roxanne at 256-206-6702.
Elkmont Fire Department Chicken Stew and Cornhole Tournament Nov 5th
Elkmont Fire Department. 19667 Sandlin Road. Elkmont FD will be having a fundraiser! Cornhole is $30 per team and will start at 9:00AM. Prize for 1st and 2nd place. Stew will be ready to serve at 11:00AM and we will have eat in or carryout, but you must have your own container for carryout. Stew will be $25.00 per gallon; $13.00 per half gallon; $7.00 per quart and $5.00 a bowl with dessert and drink.
Paint Night at Whistle Hollow Nov 13
3pm-6pm. Whistle Hollow - Wedding and Event Venue, 701 Lofton Hall Rd, Ardmore, TN. Come join us for an afternoon of fun. $35 per person. Includes all materials. Please RSVP through Facebook to Paint Night at Whistle Hollow to reserve your spot, as we only have 40 spots available. We will gladly provide refreshments! Private message about payment options, must pre-pay to reserve spot. The Broken Paint Brush will be our Amazing instructor.
Senior Lunch Matinee Show Nov 17th
Yesterday's Event Center, 15631 Brownsferry Road. Join Yesterday's for a complete lunch including drink and dessert for $11.00, and entertainment featuring Replay in an inspirational production. 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.
The Let’s Move Athens Nov. 12
8am to noon. Athens Stadium on U.S. 31. The event will include a Walk for Your Cause segment where participants can register to walk the stadium’s 1.5-mile track to raise awareness about their cause, for example Relay for Life or the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Money raised from the walk will fund Limestone County Department of Human Resources' foster care programs and the MTM Unsung Hero Scholarship Fund. The cost to walk is $10 per person or $8 per person for teams. In addition, vendors will provide information related to fitness, finance, faith and family with the emphasis being to gear the information to youth. We hope when you leave that your awareness in those areas have increase as it relates to Athens.
Michael Dean and Memphis Salute our Veterans Nov 12
6pm-8pm. Limestone County Council on Aging. 912 West Pryor St. Michael Dean as Elvis and Memphis salute our Veterans for Veterans Day! A benefit for the Alabama Veterans Museum. Tickets $15.00, $20.00 at the door. Contact the Museum for details 256-771-7578.
The Delmore Bothers 90 Years or Music Celebration Nov 12th
Elkmont, AL. 11am-5pm. Enjoy fabulous music from Bradley Walker, Carl Jackson, Shane Adkins, Bruce Walker, Jerry Saller and more. Tickets $5.00, 12 and under free. 256-306-6201.
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Rivalry Run 5K Nov 19th
Cowart Elementary, 1701 West Hobbs Street. Chip-timed USATF Certified 5K Course (AL14071JD). Registration and packet pick starts at 7:00AM; registration closes at 7:50AM. 5K Starts 8:00AM and awards at 9:15AM. Overall Top Male/Female, Top Male/Female in each age group: 0‐9, 10‐14, 15‐19, 20‐29, 30‐39, 40‐49, 50‐59, 60‐69, 70 and up. Entry: $25.
Athens Christmas Parade Dec 1st
Athens Christmas Parade starts at Athens High School/Swan Creek Park, 100 U.S. Highway 31N, and travels west on Hobbs Street to North Jefferson Street, then turns south toward the downtown square and finishes in the Hometown Grocery/Athens-Limestone Public Library area. More details to come.
The Holiday Soirèe Dec 2nd
Athens-Limestone Public Library, 603 South Jefferson Street. Contact: DebbieJoyner@comcast.net or 256-655-6690.
JROTC Jingle Bell Jog 5K Dec 3rd
Athens High School, 100 Hwy 31 N., Athens AL. Wear your funniest, most comfortable Christmas outfit and join us on a flat, fast USATF Certified 5K Course (AL13063JD). Registration and packet pickup starts on Dec. 2nd, 3:30 - 6:00 pm and race day, 6:45 – 7:30 am. Overall Top Male/Female, Top Male/Female masters, and Top Male/Female in each age group. We will also have a Best Costume Award. Entry: $25 or $28 after Nov 7th.
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November 4 - November 17, 2016
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What Makes Ronnie Roll
Frank’s First 100 Days by Ali Elizabeth Turner Mayor Ronnie was covered up far beyond his usual M.O. of runnin’ and gunnin’ from dawn til dark, and so he asked me to give his slot to the most recent addition to the Athens City Council, Frank Travis. Frank and I met for our interview at the KALB Gulf Station, and I asked him to tell me about his first 100 days in office. For those of you who may not know, Frank was appointed to replace City Councilman and former Council President Jimmy Gill, who passed away earlier this year. Frank then was planning on running for the office this summer, along with other council members who had opponents, except that no one opposed Frank. He will have to run for reelection in four years, providing he is opposed. He was glad that he got
to spend the summer learning the ropes rather than campaigning, and I asked him to tell me about it.
me.” Then he laughed and said, “I haven’t gotten any calls from upset folks yet, but I’m sure
that’s coming.” I asked him, “What has surprised you the most?”
“Well,” he said, “I have enjoyed how much the Mayor truly loves our city and all the people in it. He really does care about everyone. I always knew it, but it’s something to see it in action.” I nodded in agreement. “We have a truly diverse set of people on the council,” he said, and added, “They think differently about certain things, but in the end they come together to make decisions that are the best for the city.” I was glad to hear that, too. “What I have been touched by is the outpouring of support that has come from everyone in the community. White, black, Hispanic, it doesn’t matter. They have made it very clear that they are behind He said, “I think it’s how much you are on duty all the time when you are in public office. I had someone come up to me at a funeral to discuss city stuff, and that was new. I didn’t mind, and I was glad they felt free to do it; it was just different.” We laughed about how careful you have to be all the time because people are watching you, and “someone is kin to someone everywhere you go. You never know who you are talking to.” He also said that a big surprise is that while actual council meetings oftentimes don’t last all
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that long, the real work is on the outside of the boardroom. “I have several breakfast, lunch and dinner meetings each week,” and patting his tummy, he added, “I gotta watch it.” I teased back by saying, “Yep, that kind of work will get you every time.” Frank continued with, “A lot of people are not aware that we are not allowed, by state law, to talk with more than one fellow council member at a time about city business outside of the meeting room. The law was put into place to prevent back room deals being made,” and I added, “with a bunch of cigar smoke hanging in the air.” Frank is famous for his laugh and said, “Believe me, there are no back room deals being made.” He said that when several of them are in the same place at the same time for civic events, they are careful to avoid “talking shop,” which would be so easy to do. We finished up our time talking about strategies to strengthen relations between the AfricanAmerican and Hispanic communities in Athens, and he has been talking with Maria Taylor about ways to accomplish that. We then prayed for Athens, and we most definitely “had church” while we were at it. Then, it was time for Frank to roll right on to his next 100 days.
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The Millennial Mind
Trading Post Capitalism by Rosemary Dewar The subject of economics has become one of the most easily misconstrued elements of government function. The concept of healthy economic practice is so profoundly selfevident, that children have been able to learn the idea since the first grade without opening a book. A trading post expresses the simplest picture of capitalism: give me what I want, and I will give you what you want. Other than supply and demand, the third element of economics is need. Being able to prudently evaluate that need, as well as its effect on the community’s economy, demands that a moral
choice be made in order to alleviate or satisfy that need. Once a government has adopted a practice or policy that superficially addresses the problem, without taking into account any long term detrimental effects, an immoral practice has been enacted. Ever since our first grade classmate wanted to trade our Snack Pack pudding for their Pringles potato chips, we’ve understood basic economics. The beauty of that interaction is the freedom to say “yes” or “no.” What one desires and another has to offer is the foundation for free market capitalism. The individual freedom to
come to a mutually beneficial agreement is nothing short of phenomenal. The interaction is no different than when business owners trade labor for services. Capitalism allows for individual trade to occur without governmental interference, regulation, or taxation. Other forms of monetary governances, such as socialism and communism, directly oppose that liberty to choose. Within socialism, the government makes the choice for the individual, even when it is not wanted or needed. Social engineers are enamored by government’s ability to intervene in
human development; so much so, that they usually request intervention without proper calculation of the cost to a community. Let’s say a town wants to build a tunnel through a mountain side to increase transportation services for its citizens. That is commendable. However, if the government wants to build a tunnel, not to improve transportation but rather for the purpose of creating jobs, the net result will be a significant fiscal shortfall. The tunnel will take $12 million tax dollars to complete and will require the labor of 500 people. The town sees that the tunnel is built, and 500 people had temporary employment, but they do not perceive that they are out $12 million dollars. That same $12 million could have gone toward school development or police force improvements that would now be delayed or forgotten. Let’s take this a step further. Government taxes are a third party element in an exchange of services. If there is a public project that the government wants to fund, but it does not have enough to complete it, the government will take out a loan. This introduces a fourth party to the transaction. On the surface, it looks like the government is paying off the loan. In actuality, the tax payers are paying off that loan. Quite literally, the government is spending future tax dollars which belong to the tax payers. Should the government continue to approve “projects” that
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it cannot pay for outright; the deeper it will dive into debt. The more debt the government accumulates, the less the government is able to perform its first purpose: to protect its citizens. If a government is promoting its ability to keep its programs while continuing to increase its debt, it is lying. Furthermore, the increasing debt is literally stealing from its tax payers. The government’s promises become nothing more than valueless words. The Judeo-Christian perspective states that, “In all labor there is profit, but idle chatter leads only to poverty.” To express it even more simply, if the government proposes a program that will not directly produce a profit, the program should not be enacted. When a community, city, state, or country wants or needs a particular service, they should be able to look to the government solely as a means of stoploss precaution. Once a government aims to act on behalf of its tax payers without considering the actual cost to the tax payers, the government has violated the individuals’ liberty to choose. Famous French economist, Frédéric Bastiat stated, “Everyone wants to live at the expense of the state. They forget that the state wants to live at the expense of everyone.” This is a lesson too easily forgotten.
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Tourism
From Veterans’ Programs To Getting Ready For Christmas by Teresa Todd, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association
You can find several Veterans Day programs on Nov 10. The first one will be held at East Limestone High School. Veterans and their spouses are invited to attend the East Limestone breakfast at 8:30am. The program will begin at 9:00am. Then they can attend the veterans’ program at West Limestone High School, 10945 West School House Road, Lester, AL. The program will begin at 1:00 pm as they salute Veterans during their special program. Attend these programs and support our students and our veterans. On November 11, Athens State University’s Center for Lifelong Learning is presenting “The Story Behind the Song” A Songwriter’s Showcase at 6:30pm in McCandless Hall on the Athens State campus. Tickets for the reserved seating show are $20 and may be purchased at the Center for Lifelong Learning located at 121 S. Marion Street on the east side of the Limestone County Courthouse Square. For more information call 256-233-8260 or visit themwww.athens. edu/cll Are you prepared for the Thanksgiving Holiday? You can learn the art of“Making Holiday Bread” at the Ardmore Public Library, 25836 Main Street Ardmore, AL on November 12. Join the Ardmore Public Library for this Homesteading class on making holiday breads with Susan Duff at 10:00am. Then from 9am-
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12pm this group will have wonderful-tasting products such as pies, cakes, brownies, fudge and cookies. Also, Marie Alsup will be donating a Christmas wreath for a drawing. November 12, Michael Dean and Memphis salute our Veterans at 6pm - 8pm. Limestone County Council on Aging, 912 West Pryor St. This is afundraiser for the Alabama Veterans Museum. Tickets are $15.00& $20.00 at the door. Contact the Museum for details 256-771-7578. In Elkmont,“The Delmore Brothers;90 Years of Music”will be celebrated on November 12 from 11am – 5pm. Enjoy fabulous musicfrom Bradley Walker, Carl Jackson, Shane Adkins, Bruce Walker, Jerry Salley, Thom Bresh (son of Merle Travis) and Farmer & Adele. Tickets $5.00, 12 and under free. For info call 256-306-6201. This is an outdoor event, so BRING YOUR CHAIRS! This event is sponsored by Athens-Limestone Tourism Office, Town of Elkmont and the Elkmont Historical Committee. On November 13, our Hospice of Limestone County and MADD will be sponsoring an annual community-wide memorial service called "Celebration of Remembrance and Hope," to be held at St. Timothy's Episcopal Church at 2:00 pm. All Limestone County families and friends who have experienced the death of a loved one are invited to attend. For any additional information, please contact Wendy Fowler at
the HOLC office(256) 2325017. The Senior Lunch Matinee Show at Yesterdays’ Event Center, 15631 Brownsferry Road, will be held on November 17. Join Yesterdays’ for a complete lunch including drink and dessert for $11.00 and entertainment featuring “Replay” in an inspirational production. Doors open 10:30am, event begins 11:00am and show-time 12:00pm with a show length 60-75 minutes. Groups of all size welcome. Bus parking available. Cancellation fee may apply. Pre-reservation requiredat info@yesterdaysevents.com The ‘North Pole Stroll’ is already taking reservations for sponsored trees for decorating in Big Springs Memorial Park. The 5’ to 6’ trees are donated by Lowes of Athens and sponsored by businesses, organizations, non-profits and individuals for $100. This is a ‘green event’ with the use of only solar lighting and non-breakable ornaments. You can purchase the solar supplies at Lowes by looking for “North Pole Stroll Friendly” stickers on the shelves. Trees should be available after Thanksgiving for decorating in the park. We are willing to assist in matching a nonprofit to decorate with a sponsor, if possible. You may purchase your tree online at www.AthensNorthPoleStroll.com and click the ‘sponsor a tree’ tab. You may also come to the Athens-Limestone Tourism Office located at 100 N. Beaty Street (beside the duck pond) to pay by cash
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or check. We will have a kick-off on December 3 for everyone to come out and enjoy the trees with hot chocolate, music and Santa may even make a visit! For more information call the Tourism Office at 256-2325411. This event is sponsored by Athens-Limestone County Tourism, City of Athens Parks and Recreation, Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful, Spirit of Athens, and the Limestone County Archives. On November 18 from 7am – 9am come out to Suzanne's Bakery & Eatery at 1207 Forrest St. They will be raising money for childhood cancer researchand to support our local cancerfighting families. Christmas Open House November 18 – 20 in downtown Athens, AL. Christmas comes early to downtown Athens with caroling, special shopping to help complete your Christmas list, and seeing Santa! For more information, contact the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce at 256-232-2600 Ardmore Christmas Craft Fair TN, Annex Building Main Street, Ardmore, TN. Finish off your shopping list with handmade crafts to give to friends, family, party hostess or surprise gift giver. For more information, Wendi Brake 256278-5524. Donnell House Christmas, Donnell House 601 1/2 South Clinton Street, Athens, AL. Join the Donnell House for this annual tradition and celebration. All money raised will go to the renovation efforts of the
Donnell House. For more information: (256) 2320743 December 1 will be the Athens Christmas Parade starting at Athens High School/Swan Creek Park 100 U.S. Highway 31N. The Parade will travel west on Hobbs Street to North Jefferson Street, turn south toward the downtown square, and finish in the Hometown Grocery/Athens-Limestone Public Library area. Sponsored by Reliance Bank of Athens. Dec 2nd - The Holiday Soiree, Athens-Limestone Public Library 603 South Jefferson Street. Contact: DebbieJoyner@comcast. net or 256-655-6690 Dec 3rd – JROTC Jingle Bell Jog 5K, Athens High School, 100 Hwy 31 N. Athens AL. Wear your funniest, most comfortable Christmas outfit and join us on a flat, fast USATF Certified 5K Course (AL13063JD). Registration and packet pickup starts on Dec. 2, 3:30 6:00pm and race day, 6:45 – 7:30am. Overall Top Male/Female, Top Male/ Female masters, and Top Male/Female in each age group. We will also have a Best Costume Award. Entry: $25 or $28 after Nov 7. See more information on events and activities at the Tourism website VisitAthensAL.com or visit our Facebook page, “Athens-Limestone County To u r i s m ” o r “ A t h e n s Limestone Visitor Center” I n f o @ Vi s i t A t h e n s A L . com 256-232-5411
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November 4 - November 17, 2016
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Clean and Green
Drought Conditions Require An Abundance Of Caution by Lynne Hart I am told that fall has arrived, but the temperatures make it difficult to tell! Although we are experiencing cooler nights, our daytime temperatures have frequently felt more like summer. The biggest problem we are experiencing in North Alabama is lack of rain. Limestone County is under extreme drought conditions, which is the second-highest intensity level. It will take over 10 to 14 inches of rain to take our area out of drought conditions. Climatologists are saying that this is the worst drought we’ve experienced in nearly 10 years. Vegetation is drying up due to lack of water as you can tell by the crunching sound you hear when you walk across the grass. This creates a very dangerous situation. The simplest spark can cause the dried vegetation to catch fire. According to the Alabama Forestry Commission website, from October 1st through October 28th there were 1,028 wildfires in the state destroying 11,232 acres. Currently there is little rain in sight. “No Burn Order” in effect Governor Robert Bentley has signed a Drought Emergency Declaration, or a No Burn Order, into effect
which includes Limestone County. So what does that mean? Due to extreme risk of wildfires, it is illegal to do any of the following while a No Burn Order is in effect: •Set fire to plants, trees, or grass. •Build a campfire or bon fire •Burn trash or debris •Any other type of open burning Failure to comply could cost the offender up to a $500 fine or 6 months in jail. Cigarette Litter As I drove to work earlier this week, I saw a cigarette butt in the middle of a road which was still smoking. All it would have taken was a bit of wind to blow that smoldering filter to the grass and start a fire. These drought conditions have led to a high number of grass fires in our area. I know that there are many causes for this such as farming equipment hitting a rock, vehicles dragging chains, etc. That does not negate the dangers of cigarette butts causing fires, especially in this serious drought situation. KALB has pocket ashtrays which allow smokers to safely store cigarette butts until they can be properly discarded. PLEASE, if you are
a smoker, be a responsible one. Do not toss your butts into the environment where they can cause fires and leach dangerous chemicals into the environment. KALB is not interested in lecturing anyone about the act of smoking; however, we do feel a responsibility to remind those who do smoke to choose not to pollute the environment or take a chance on starting a wildfire. Once No Burn Order Lifted Once the drought conditions have improved and the No Burn Order has been lifted, there are still things we need to remember about open burning. The following information is taken from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management regulations under section 335-3-3-.01. Open burning authorized by this paragraph shall comply with the following conditions: •The burning must take place on the property on which the combustible fuel originates; •The location of the burning must be at least 500 feet
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from the nearest occupied dwelling, other than a dwelling located on the property on which the burning is conducted; •The burning must be controlled so as to avoid creating a traffic hazard on any public road, street, or highway as a result of the air contaminants emitted; •Only vegetation and untreated wood may be burned. It is unauthorized to open burn heavy oils, asphalt products, plastics, vinyl materials, insulation, paper, cardboard, natural or synthetic rubber, salvage or scrap materials, chemicals, garbage, treated or painted wood, or any trash;
•Initial burning may be commenced only between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. No combustible material is to be added to the fire between 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. the following day; •Burning shall be conducted only when there is good ventilation and when the prevailing wind direction is away from any built-up area in the vicinity. No burning shall be conducted in areas under a current air stagnation advisory issued by the National Weather Service or during a “Drought Emergency” declared by the Governor; •The fire shall be attended at all times. Let’s work together to keep our community safe.
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(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com November 4 - November 17, 2016
Cooking with Tammy
A Healthier Holiday Maple Pumpkin Cheesecake by Tammy Wilkinson, owner of Arabella's Cakes and Catering
There are ways to make a rich dessert healthier, and this one is my family’s favorite. It is not as sweet, and if people need to sweeten it a bit, each serving can be individually drizzled with real maple syrup as a finish. Here’s a tip: lightly grease your springform pan and base with coconut oil. It adds flavor, and will help the cheesecake easily pull away from the sides of the pan.
Ingredients: • 1-1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs or gingersnap cookie crumbs (gluten free works, too) • 1/4 cup butter, melted • 3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt • 1 can (15 ounces) solid-pack pumpkin • 1/4 cup or more of real maple syrup TOPPING: • 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon • 2 cups (16 ounces) sour cream • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg • 1/3 cup maple syrup • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 3 eggs, lightly beaten
Directions: 1. In a small bowl, combine the cracker/cookie crumbs and butter. Press onto the bottom of a greased 9-in. springform pan. Bake at 325° for 12 minutes. Cool on a wire rack. 2. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and milk until smooth. Beat in the pumpkin, syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Add eggs; beat on low speed just until combined. 3. Pour into crust. Place pan on middle rack. Bake at 325° for 70-75 minutes, or until center is almost set. Combine the topping ingredients; spread over cheesecake. Bake 5 minutes longer. 4. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife or silicon spatula around edge of pan to loosen; cool 1 hour longer. Refrigerate overnight. Remove sides of pan. Refrigerate leftovers. Yield: 12-14 servings. You can do a number of things to customize this cheesecake. Mark pieces with pecans around the edge. Or, you can chop up a ½ cup of pecans, sprinkle on top, and drizzle maple syrup back and forth. If you choose to do that, Publix carries a 12.5 oz bottle of real maple syrup that is reasonably priced. Sweeten to taste.
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Health and Fitness
Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes by Janet Hunt
Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment. Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are two different diseases. Both are very serious diseases that need to be monitored and managed. In general, people with type 1 diabetes have a total lack of insulin and those that have type 2 diabetes have too little insulin or cannot use insulin effectively. Type 1 diabetes often called juvenile-onset or insulin-dependent diabetes accounts for about 5-10% of the people who have diabetes. With type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system destroys the cells that release insulin, eventually eliminating insulin production from the body. Without insulin, our cells cannot absorb sugar (glucose), which they need to produce energy. Type 2 diabetes sometimes called adult-onset or non-insulin-dependent diabetes can de-
velop at any age. It most often is diagnosed in adults; and until recently with the obesity epidemic, it was fairly rare in children. Now the diagnosis in children is rising. The majority of people who have diabetes have type 2 (9095%). In type 2 diabetes, your body is not able
to use insulin correctly resulting in insulin resistance. As type 2 diabetes gets worse, the pancreas makes less and less in insulin. This is called insulin deficiency. Both types of diabetes greatly increase the risk for many serious complications. Even though
monitoring and managing either type 1 or 2 can prevent complications, diabetes is still the leading cause of blindness and kidney failure. It is also a serious risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and foot or leg amputations.
For more information regarding diabetes, lowering your risk for developing type 2 diabetes, managing your diabetes, and more, contact your health care provider or talk to a personal trainer that has worked with diabetic clients.
Differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes Type 1 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes
Symptoms usually start in childhood or young adulthood. People often seek medical help because they are seriously ill from sudden symptoms of high blood sugar.
A person may not have symptoms before diagnosis. Usually the disease is discovered in adulthood, but an increasing number of children are being diagnosed with the disease.
Episodes of low blood sugar level (hypoglycemia) are common. It cannot be prevented.
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There are no episodes of low blood sugar level, unless the person is taking insulin or certain diabetes medicines. It can be prevented or delayed with a healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a healthy weight, eating sensibly, and exercising regularly.
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November 4 - November 17, 2016
Cover Story
The 30th Annual Athens Christmas Open House: Our Very Own “Miracle” On Marion Street by Ali Elizabeth Turner
continued from page 1
ing about Christmas, let alone the prospect of winter actually eventually getting here. However, due to some remarkable technology, this year as a part of the 30th Annual Athens Christmas Open House and Merry Market, Athenians and folks from all over the Tennessee Valley are going to get a chance to ice skate! And, no matter how warm it may be the weekend of November 1820, we are going to have “real live snow” on the Square. How did this “Miracle on Marion Street” happen? I spoke with Jennifer Williamson, our local Chamber Director, who got the ice skating idea from the Andalusia Chamber of Commerce and their holiday event, Candyland. The “ice” for the rink is a synthetic ice made of a high-tech plastic that you can skate on. It is eco-friendly and it made from a non-toxic, recyclable acrylic material. It looks and feels like real ice and real ice skating! This synthetic ice can be used yearround, indoors or outdoors, and in any climate conditions. They construct a rink complete with railings, decorate it, bring about 100 pairs of skates to rent, and snow machines with “blizzard bashes” every thirty minutes. The cost is $5 per person to skate. It will be set up on the West side of the Courthouse where the Storytelling Tent is annually lo-
cated, and will be open Friday through Sunday. I am going to be one of the vendors at the Merry Market held upstairs at the Center for Lifelong Learning, but I am definitely going to strap on skates and skate around the rink, even if I have to hang on to the lovely railing for dear life! The Ice Rink will be open on Friday, Nov. 18, 3-7 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 19, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 20, 1-4 p.m. Of course, all of the other traditional features of the Christmas Open House are going to be available for our holiday enjoyment. Santa will be on hand for photos in the Center for Lifelong Learning from 5-7 pm on Friday night, Saturday from 2-4 pm, and Sunday from 2-4 pm. And, this year the photos will be free of charge! And, rest as-
November 4 - November 17, 2016
sured, Santa won’t be alone. Be on the lookout for other Christmas characters to make their appearance at Christmas Open House. Participating merchants will have refreshments and door prizes, along with special sales. For the merchants that are not technically on the Square but are participating in the Open House, once again there will be the “Elf on the Shelf” contest. These merchants will have an elf hidden somewhere in the store. If you find it, you will receive a prize from the Chamber. And, don’t forget about the 2nd Annual Tacky Holiday Sweater Contest. The contest is open to men, women, and children, and is back by popular demand. Please make sure your sweater is family friendly, and do your best to find the goofiest sweater
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possible. You will most definitely be adding to the merriment! As always, you may catch some of our local performers singing carols and other musical entertainment around the Square and treating us to the songs that are such a treasured part of our holiday season. For merchants who do not have a brick and mortar business, the Merry Market will be held upstairs in the Center for Lifelong Learning, located at 121 S Marion Street. There will be a wide variety of direct sales vendors, artisans, cottage crafts, and more. The Merry Market will be open all three days of the Open House. Another new feature this year will be Santa’s Wrapping Station, which will also be located at the Center for Lifelong Learn-
ing. Any purchases made at a participating Christmas Open House merchant’s store during Christmas Open House weekend will receive FREE gift wrapping. In order to use the service, a valid receipt must be shown to the wrappers. As is the case with all the wonderful events that we get to enjoy in Limestone County, none of it could happen without sponsors and volunteers. This year’s presenting sponsor is Martin & Cobey Construction. There is also going to be a grand prize drawing, which will once again be provided by Hobbs Jewelers. Bring your family and enjoy the beginning of what will be a very special holiday season. For more information, call the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce at 256232-2600.
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Cover Story
Medical East: Urgent Care At Its Best by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1
Army for several years in a non-medical capacity, got out, and then decided that medicine was his true calling. He got back in, graduated from med school, and did his internship at Fort Bliss in El Paso, TX. He served in Desert Storm, where he was assigned to a CASH, (which stands for Combat Area Service Hospital) in Kuwait City. He came to our area in 1985, and headed up the ER at Fox Army Health Center, the medical facility located on Redstone Arsenal. Dr. Purner has also done emergency medicine at Huntsville Humana as well as Decatur General. He has experienced firsthand the need for quickness and accuracy that just goes with the territory of combat medicine, and feels that his time “in the Storm” is one of the things that makes him an excellent ER physician. “I had to get good at being able to tell what is really ‘sick,’ and how to triage well,” he said. (Triage is the French term used to figure out who gets treated first based on the severity of their symptoms.) He let me know that a high level of triage
skill is very important during cold and flu season. The clinic is much busier, and some of the symptoms that present themselves that are “flu-like” may be a sign of something more serious, and need to be discerned as such. Dr. Purner wanted me to stress that “Medical East is not a mini-ER, it’s urgent care.” Here are some of the differences between the two types of specialties: Emergency Rooms are designed for true emergencies that need to be treated immediately, or there could be serious or possibly fatal outcomes. They are for things like animal bites, asthma attacks, chest pains, shortness of breath, confusion or altered mental states, head injuries, ingesting an obstructive object or poison, kidney stones, seizures, severe abdominal pain or burns, shock, snake bites, stroke, unconsciousness or uncontrollable bleeding. It is best to call 911 for an ambulance in these situations. By contrast, urgent care walk-in facilities are for the following: allergies, colds, coughs, sore throats, flu, or fevers, headaches and earaches, diarrhea, minor cuts and burns, insect bites, nausea/vomit-
November 4 - November 17, 2016
ing, pinkeye, pregnancy testing, rashes, sprains, stitches, sinus infections, and urinary tract infections. In addition, the team at Medical East does occupational medicine, which can include DOT exams, drug screenings, on the job injuries, and all aspects of industrial and occupational medicine. Most urgent care facilities do not see children under the age of two, however, Dr. Purner will treat little ones as young as six months. This is something that it is a great comfort to young parents who have been up all night with their child, but aren’t sure that an ER visit is warranted. Dr. Purner told me that he feels the field of urgent care has blossomed because doctors want more autonomy. “We want to be able to give our patients the best possible care, and now with technology being the way it is, we can digitally view records while we have a specialist view an X-ray at the same time we are from across town, and they can also view our records, which helps them. We can do CT scans here, as well as MRIs and some laboratory tests,” he said, and added, “The result is
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just a better level of care.”
be seen, diag-
Medical East does not set broken bones, but the OrthoSport Athens medical facility, which is part
of the Athens Limestone Hospital system, is literally right next door. In addition, the Athens Limestone Hospital Wound Care Center is co-located at Medical East. “Most urgent care facilities don’t have this level of service located in the same building,” Dr. Purner said, and he said enjoys working with the other physicians on site. One of the blessings of the urgent care approach is that they are open seven days a week, and no appointment is necessary. During the week they open up at 7 am, so in many cases it is completely possible to
nosed, treated, and not miss any work. If you are looking for a top flight urgent care or occupational medicine facility, then either give them a call, or go straight to the clinic. You have a seasoned team of caring professionals who are waiting to take care of all your urgent care needs.
Medical East Diagnostics and Urgent Care 15243 Greenfield Dr, Athens, AL 35613 Hours: Mon-Fri 7-5, Sat-Sun 8-4 Phone: (256) 771-0994
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Learning As A Lifestyle
The Story Behind the Song by Wanda Campbell
Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 Athens State University’s Center for Lifelong Learning will be hosting The Story Behind the Song: A Songwriters Showcase. The event will be held on Friday, November 11, 2017, at 6:30 pm in McCandless Hall on the Athens State campus. We are so excited to bring these talented musicians to McCandless Hall in an unplugged format. Each songwriter will play his songs and talk about the inspiration behind his writing. Tickets are $20 for the reserved seating show and are available now for purchase at the Center for Lifelong Learning at 121 South Marion Street on the east side of the Limestone County Courthouse Square. For more information about the concert, call 256233-8260 or visit www. athens.edu/cll. Songwriter Phillip White is a Rogersville
native, a graduate of Austin High School in Decatur, and the winner of the Academy of Country Music’s Song of the Year for his hit “I’m Movin’ On” (Rascal Flatts). He has written songs for artists such as Reba McEntire, Darius Rucker, Wynonna, George Strait, and Kenny Rogers. During the past twenty years he’s been published by some of music row’s most respected publishers including Murrah Music, Disney, Universal, and Sea Gayle Music. He recently signed with Fluid Music Revolution and Spirit Music Publishing. Monty Holmes grew up in Lubbock, Texas. His grandfather exposed him to a great record collection and such artists as Jimmie Rodgers and Hank Williams. From Ray Price to the Rolling Stones, Holmes’ songs reflect his varied musical influences. Throughout the years, Holmes has worked with Whitey Sha-
Monty Holmes
fer, Hank Cockran, Glenn Martin, Don Sampson, Donnie Kees, Tony Mullins, Leslie Satcher, Scotty Emerick, Brice Long, Buddy Cannon, and Phillip White. He has written songs for George Strait, including chart toppers “I know She Still Loves Me,” “When Did You Stop Loving Me,” and the 2009 Grammy Award
Phillip White
Clint Daniels winning Country Album of the Year, “Troubador” and “House of Cash.” Holmes is currently an ASCAP writer but is a multiple BMI “millionair,” an honor for writers with over 1 million broadcast performances. Clint Daniels is a Florida native, inspired by bluegrass music. After graduating from high school, he moved to Nashville to pursuit a career in country music. He had two singles on the charts – “A Fool’s Progress” and “When I Grow Up.”
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Since leaving Epic Records, Daniels has cowritten songs with other country artists, including the Number One hit “Brokenheartsville” by Joe Nichols and “Roll with Me” by Montgomery Gentry, as well as Brooks and Dunn’s “God Must Be Busy.” This is going to be a wonderful concert. I know you will enjoy yourself. The show is sponsored by Guitar Center, Huntsville. Stop by the Center to pick up your tickets today.
November 4 - November 17, 2016
Special Feature
Bill Daws: A Working Commissioner For All The Citizens Of District 4 by Ali Elizabeth Turner Bill Daws was born and raised in Limestone County and graduated from West Limestone High School in 1977. For 19 years he worked in Decatur at Wolverine Tubes. In 1999 he was a part of the Limestone County Sheriff’s Department and served as a patrol deputy. Bill had always wanted to own his own business; so, for two years he ran an excavating service gaining experience that would serve him well as a County Commissioner. In 1996 he ran for County Commission and lost to Dave Seibert. When Dave became the Chairman of the Limestone County Commission in 2002, Bill was appointed to replace him in the District 4 slot. Bill successfully ran in 2004 and 2008, but was defeated in 2012. He returned to the Sheriff’s Department to serve as a patrolman, but then chose to transfer to the work release program as it was getting off the ground. “I enjoyed helping these guys put their lives back together by working hard and making restitution,” Bill
said. He told me how the program worked. “They had to be sentenced, and be willing to work in order to make restitution. It is so much better than just having them sit in prison and not doing anything. Even though it’s years later, I still hear from some of the guys who are really thankful for the program. They’ve turned their lives around and are drug-free. Some of them paid off child support or other debts, and it was a win-win for the taxpayers,” he added. However, it was when several people approached him to run again for his former position that he decided the only way to do so would be as an independent. “I told them, you are going to have to get my name on the ballot, and I will never run as part of a political party.” We chatted for awhile about the need for Commission and judicial positions to be non-partisan, and Bill hopes if he wins that running as an independent will pave the way for that to happen. Bill also told me that he greatly enjoyed his job as Commissioner. “I loved doing the job, helping people, and working
with the other Commissioners and City Council. Bringing jobs and helping industry grow keeps the money local, and helps the taxpayers,” he says.
said. He also said with firmness, “It is time to get rid of party politics. Run on your name and what you can do, not being tied to any group, organization, or committee.”
One of the strengths Bill brings is the experience of being a farm owner. He raises cross-breed cattle, Angus and Hereford, as well as hay. “The Commission should be run like a business, and the tax payer should get the very best use of their tax dollars,” he
I asked Bill, “When you were Commissioner, what was your best accomplishment?” He answered, “Maintaining the roads safely.” He also talked about keeping the bushes cut back, getting funding to put guard rails for the Elk River, paving projects, and the fact that he returned phone calls in a timely manner. “I want to hear their concerns and see what we can do about it,” he said. Bill is proud of the fact that he was able to secure funding to renovate the Owens Senior Center. “As an elected official, you are the voice of the people. You represent those folks,” Bill said. He went on to say, “There can be no room for personal agenda. You have to keep an open mind, and do what’s best for the people of the County.”
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Bill says that “[t]he roads in District 4 are in bad shape, and safety is a major concern. If I am re-elected, my main project is to get the roads back up and to work with other officials to get funding we need. Limestone County is growing, and we need to make sure the roads and intersections are safe. I have had years of experience working with legislators to get grants, whether they are Federal, from Department of Transportation, or ATRIP (Alabama Transportation Rehabilitation and Improvement Program).” Bill also wants to make sure that major projects undertaken by the Commission are not what are known as “Cost plus 10,” because it’s too easy for there to be major cost overruns. Most of all he wants to be a “working Commissioner for all the citizens of District 4.” If this is what you are looking for in a County Commissioner, then Bill Daws would appreciate your vote on November 8th.
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Dog Barker
Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner?! by Joel Allen Ever have guests over to your house and they bring their dog who is a “Holy Terror?” “Holy Terror,” (Joel’s definition) is a very rowdy, mud throwing, slobbering, jumping, pawing, begging, stealing while counter surfing, barking, tornado of destruction and terrorist to your own dog in the house. This dog is so untrained that when it is time for your guests to arrive, you are already taking Goody’s headache powders and calling me, frantically asking for quick counter measures. In this case, I applaud the use of taking a preventative to a migraine. Well, guess who’s coming to dinner? The holidays will soon be upon us, and it is my hope that this article will give some advance tidbits to prepare for canine guests. “They’re heeerrree!” You say eerily, to warn everyone as you answer the door. First one through the door is the unleashed “Holy Terror” who runs straight to your dog. Your dog, being the age he is, rejects “Holy Terror’s” invitation to become best buddies. The Pet Parents of the dog, now ripping through your house, just smile and say things like, “Awe! How cute! He loves your house.” Then you hear the return of their dog and like nails on a chalkboard, you hear the distinct clawing of the dog’s nails on your nice finished hardwood floor. Remaining civil is one way to deal with the situation because you don’t want to offend your guests. But, what do you do?
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Plan A: To deal with said situation is to ask your guests to please control their dog (Be careful how you ask someone to control their dog because it is easy to hurt some people’s feelings). At this point, I can imagine you want to scream at the unruly dog. Don’t do this because yelling and losing your temper will get you the “Have you lost your mind?!” look. Plus, the dog will most likely ignore what you are saying, so you just wasted your breath. If this tactic fails, then we go to plan B. Plan B: This is the stratlet’s all try and work things out because soon it will be the season of forgiving and remembering all our loved ones. Gifts will be exchanged and everyone will be eating all sorts of goodies. Lastly, you might get lucky because “Holy Terror” might decide to bring back your slippers that he originally took when no one was watching. Hence, soaking his Pet Parents with vinegar and water can be a great remedy for you and their dog can laugh at them in his own way.
egy of using a spray bottle or squirt gun (In my case a Super Soaker, hahaha) with the concoction of 1/3 vinegar to 2/3’s water. Set for stream and spray the unruly dog in the face. If your guests have an issue with this, spray them in the face for not taking the time
to develop their Doggie Skills. If this fails, we can use plan C. Plan C: Well, you call me 256-651-2211 and I will come to visit and help your guests see a better way and better dog. Besides, would it not be considerate of them to train their dog?
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A lot of people don’t realize they are being inconsiderate when they bring their untrained dog or puppy. I always ask or warn that Zues will be with me and when someone has a problem with Zues, I either don’t visit or I try to accommodate the situation. So,
“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
November 4 - November 17, 2016
Jerry’s Journal
That Old Woman by Jerry Barksdale www.jerrybarksdale.com It was 1935, smack dab in the middle of the Great Depression, when she showed up in the East Limestone community and occupied an abandoned sharecropper’s shack near our house. I was 10 years old at the time, but I remember it well. No one knew her, nor any of her folks, nor where she came from. She just appeared one day with a pack of cur dogs. She didn’t attend church, didn’t associate with neighbors and didn’t appear to have a source of sustenance. She didn’t even have a name so far as anyone knew. Folks just called her “that old woman.” Mama worried that she didn’t have enough to eat. Daddy was bent over the breakfast table sopping up “Hoover gravy” with a biscuit while Mama poured coffee. “I hate to see anybody go hungry,” she said. “Lot of folks are hungry these days,” Daddy said. “I’ve eat so much Hoover gravy my socks slide down my legs.” “Well, at least we have something to eat.” “If it don’t hurry up and rain we’ll all starve to death,” Daddy said. “There won’t be enough cotton to plow under.” Mama examined the calendar hanging on a nail on the wall and flipped the pages. “My word! It’s been two months since we’ve had a drop of rain.” Daddy stirred molasses in his coffee to sweeten it and took a sip. “Didn’t that old woman show up about two months ago?” he asked. After
breakfast
Daddy
hitched up the mules to our wagon and headed off to cut firewood for the cook stove. Mama scooped cornmeal from the bin into a paper bag, then we went to the garden and picked a mess of peas, squash, okra and tomatoes. “Com’on Punk’n let’s take this to that poor old woman up yonder,” she said. It was July 3rd and scorching hot. The cotton plants were drooping in the heat and little clouds of dust rose from our footsteps. The sharecropper shack was tiny with a rusty tin roof and tar paper siding and sat on a foundation of stacked rocks. No one had lived there in years and weeds had grown waist high. We walked up to the front porch and Mama called out: “YOO HOO! ANYBODY HOME?” A pack of hounds scrambled from beneath the shack, barking and snarling. After sniffing us, they backed off. The old woman, wearing a ragged black dress, pushed open the torn screen door and looked us up and down. She was bent over with age like a crooked old tree. Her eyes were black as tar; curly hairs grew on her pointed chin and nose, and long gray hair fell past her hunched shoulders. I moved closer to Mama and I clutched her arm. “What’che want?” The old woman demanded. Mama held out the sack of cornmeal and vegetables. “We’ve got plenty and I hate to see food go to waste,” she said. “Cornbread sure would taste good with fried okra and squash.” The old woman eyed us with
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fb.com/jerry.barksdale.7 suspicion. “Here, please take it,” Mama said. The old woman inched out onto the front porch and snatched the sack and disappeared inside the house without a word. The next day it came a gulley-washer rain. Mama rejoiced and said the Lord sent rain because we had been kind to the old woman. The same day, Bossy, for no apparent reason, didn’t give any milk. The cotton crop was saved, such as it was, but we had no milk to drink. When the rain stopped, Army worms came marching across our cotton patch eating the squares that would eventually develop into cotton bolls. Bossy, didn’t give enough milk for Daddy’s coffee. Our neighbor’s cow also stopped giving milk. “It’s that old woman, I tell ya,” Daddy said. “Our problems started when she showed up.” Later I was fishing in Johnson Branch when she appeared out of the woods and offered me a hunk of cornbread. “It’s mighty good,” she said. I refused it and ran home. One of the Smith children, who lived nearby, went missing. The following month another child disappeared. They were never seen again. Late one night I woke when I heard Bossy bawling at the barn. Daddy fumbled around in the dark, slipped on his overalls, and went out the back door holding a lantern. I snuck from my bed and peeped out the window where a quarter moon illuminated the landscape. When Daddy neared the barn, I
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saw a pack of hounds run off. Later that night I overhead Mama and Daddy whispering. “My word!” Mama exclaimed. “Don’t dare tell that young’n what you saw. It would scare ‘em to death.” The following week the old woman was spotted near Fairmount School on Nick Davis Road talking to children walking home. She was seen giving a hunk of cornbread to Sally Turner. Sally was a beautiful child with blue eyes and red hair, but the other children made fun of her because she had a terrible limp. A kicking mule broke her femur which wasn’t properly set. Little Sally disappeared and was never seen again. Later, Bossy woke me bawling. Daddy dressed and loaded his 22 rifle and slipped out the back door. The moon was full. I saw Daddy shoulder the 22. POW-POW-POW. Dogs scattered. One dragged off in the bushes and disappeared. Again, I overheard Mama and Daddy whispering. “Them dogs have been sucking Bossy dry,” Daddy said. “That’s why we don’t have any milk.” “My word! I’ve never heard of such a thing,” Mama whispered. “Yeah, and there’s more dogs than before,” Daddy said. “Where you reckon they come from?” Mama whispered. “I don’t know, but there’s one less. I shot ‘em in the hind quarter.” Several weeks later, hunters discovered the old woman’s body in the woods. The coroner determined that she died from “natural causes.”
No family ever came forward and the investigation ended. Afterwards, Bossy began giving milk and no more children disappeared. Years later, I stopped at Vinson’s store on Nick Davis Road to drink a Coke and catch up on local news from the “spit and whittle” club who were sitting on the front porch. They were discussing the drought – it hadn’t rained in over a month – and boll weevils were eating the cotton crop. “It got just like this back in nineteen thirty-five,” a fellow said. Abner Allen said his cow had quit giving milk. “That’s odd, mine too,” another fellow said. Shortly, a middle-aged, blue eyed, red headed woman, followed by a pack of cur dogs, limped up and went inside the store. “I’ll swear,” Abner said. “If I didn’t know better, I’d say that’s Sally Turner who disappeared forty year ago.” “Reckon who someone asked.
she
is?”
The woman emerged carrying a sack of cornmeal. An alarm went off in my head. Somewhere in my memory… yes – yes! Now, I remembered. Fear shot through me and the hair on the back of my neck extended like a wire brush. That old woman was back. “For God’s sake,” I said, “Never – never take cornbread from her or you’ll end up on all fours and scratching fleas.” I don’t accept cornbread from strangers. And neither should you.
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Medical Update
Vaccination Recommendations for Adults by Shanna Ndong, MD
Vaccines have received a lot of criticism recently, but no other health intervention is more effective at reducing the spread of infection. Vaccines stimulate the immune system to recognize a specific organism as foreign, destroy it, and "remember" it, resulting in immunity to the disease that the organism causes. Immunity can decrease over time for many diseases, so adults who received vaccines in childhood may require a “booster.� Below is a list of recommended vaccines for adults. Flu (Influenza)
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Common symptoms of the flu virus include fever, cough, muscle aches, and fatigue. Flu season occurs between October and May and up to 1 in 5 people in the U.S. get the disease. The flu can weaken the immune system, which can lead to complications like pneumonia, blood infections, or death. The flu vaccine reduces the risk of having the disease by half and results in shorter and less severe illness in individuals who get the flu despite vaccination. The flu shot is recommended every year for everyone age 6 months and older. Pneumococcus
Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria can cause many types of illnesses including pneumonia, meningitis, bloodstream infections, and sinus infections. It is estimated that 900,000 Americans get pneumococcal pneumonia each year and about 5-7% die from it. There are two vaccines for pneumococcus (PCV13 (Prevnar) and PPSV23 (Pneumovax)) and they are recommended for adults with certain chronic illnesses and all adults who are 65 years or older. Shingles (Herpes zoster) Shingles is a painful rash
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that develops on one side of the face or body and is caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus stays dormant in the body and can reactivate years later, causing shingles. Almost 1 out of every 3 people in the United States will develop shingles in their lifetime. As many as 20-30% of people who develop shingles get post-herpetic neuralgia or severe pain in the areas where they had the shingles rash, even after the rash clears up. The shingles vaccine is rec-
ommended for all individuals age 60 and older. Tetanus Tetanus is an infection caused by bacteria called Clostridium tetani. Tetanus bacteria are everywhere in the environment, including soil, dust and manure. The bacteria can get into the body through broken skin, usually through injuries from contaminated objects. Tetanus infection causes painful muscle tightening and stiffness which can lead to difficulty breathing (death occurs on 10-20% of cases). A tetanus booster shot is recommended every 10 years in adulthood. Whooping cough (Pertussis) Pertussis is a very contagious disease that usually starts with coldlike symptoms and can progress to a severe cough that can last up to ten weeks. Pertussis is most dangerous for babies and can cause them to stop breathing. Vaccine protection for pertussis fades with time, so all adults 19 and older who have not previously received a Tdap vaccine need a booster shot. Additional vaccines are recommended for adults with certain chronic diseases or who were not vaccinated in childhood. The adult vaccination schedule is updated every year so talk to your doctor about your vaccination history and what may be appropriate for you.
November 4 - November 17, 2016
Foreman’s Forum
Road Rage by Paul Foreman
My wife and I were driving home one evening on the interstate. We were talking while we cruised along towards home, when I realized I was about to pass our exit. I glanced in the rear view mirror and just barely made it onto the exit ramp. Suddenly there was the sound of a blaring car horn. To my right another car was passing me on the off ramp. Then, he did what I would not have expected. He swerved his car over into mine, slamming into my right front fender. I slammed on my brakes to get away from him. He cut back across in front of me and accelerated on down the exit ramp. My wife was on the phone calling 911. When she got the Sheriff’s Office on the line, she handed the phone to me. I told the 911 operator who I was. She remembered me from the fifteen
years I spent as a Deputy Sheriff with Lee County Florida. I told her in detail what had just happened. I told her I was following the hit and run driver at a safe distance. At one point the driver slowed to turn left, at which point we were able to advise of his tag number. The driver took a few more turns and stopped. I was carrying a snub nose 38 Special, and I kept it low and out of sight as I rolled down my window about four inches. The other driver was getting out of his car and started walking towards us. I called out loudly to him, “Stop right there. I have the Sheriff’s Office on the phone. A deputy is on the way. Just wait right there. Don’t come any closer!” The other driver got back into his car and turned into a retirement mobile home park. I decided to wait
near the entrance, for the deputy. Within a few minutes, a deputy arrived. I introduced myself as a retired deputy, and described to him what happened. I included the fact that I had most likely changed lanes a little too close. He got the name and address of the other driver from the tag number I had given him, and he drove into the park. After about twenty minutes, the deputy came back out. He grinned as he told me the guy denied everything. The guy claimed he had not used the car all day, yet his engine was still warm. The deputy wrote him several traffic tickets including “hit and run.” Several months later, I got a subpoena to appear in traffic court. The guy was pleading “Not Guilty.” I called the prosecutor. I suggested that he inform
the other driver’s attorney that I was a retired deputy. The prosecutor called me back about an hour later and told me the other driver decided to plead guilty!
scription of your car and the other car and driver.
I do not advise doing what I did in the above scenario. Following an offender might just enrage them even more.
8.If your car is disabled and you cannot escape, I hope you are armed and trained, in case the enraged driver attacks you.
1.Don’t get road rage yourself! 2.If they are following too close, speed up a little to increase the distance between you and the other driver. 3.Look for an area to turn off. 4.Always leave room in front of your car to pull away and escape! 5.If the other driver tries to confront you, dial 911 while you to drive away. 6.Give 911 your location, direction of travel, the de-
7.You really don’t know who you are dealing with. They could be a wanted felon for all you know.
9.Drawing a gun inside a car presents a whole new set of problems to overcome. Getting your gun out while seated, especially getting past your seat belt, shift knob and steering wheel, takes a lot of practice. Inside your car, practice drawing with an empty gun.
10.Remember: You cannot use deadly force, unless and until you are threatened with deadly force. You cannot threaten someone with deadly force, just because he looks angry.
11.Do what I did; shout loud and clear, “The Cops have been called and are on their way!” If he comes closer, yell loud and clear, “Back away! Do not come any closer!”
12. Do NOT show your gun unless you are actually threatened with deadly force. Paul Foreman: Is a retired Deputy Sheriff, from Lee County Florida. Paul is a NRA Certified Pistol Instructor For further information about Firearm's Training, Paul can be reached through e-Mail at Captureman@PaulForeman.com or his web site, www.PaulForeman.com or by Phone at 256-431-6702
November 4 - November 17, 2016
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