November 6 - November 19, 2015
AthensNowal.com E-MAIL: info@athensnowal.com ADVERTISING: Ali: 256-468-9425 Deborah: 256-309-9399
See Our Listings Inside this edition... Pages 25 - 32
Special Feature The 2015 Athens Christmas Open House: A Tradition to Experience... For nearly three decades, Athens merchants located on and off the Square have thrown a “shopping shindig” that has... Page 5
Special Feature
Choose Chris Seibert To Represent District 5 In The Alabama State House By Ali Elizabeth Turner On Tue, December 8, 2015, local Republican voters from the 5th District in North Alabama will be casting votes in a special runoff election. The purpose of the December election is to determine Continued on pages 15
SOS Insurance: Affordable Rates, Dedicated Agents, And An Additional Location... Are you aware that if it is extremely difficult for you to qualify for insurance... Page 7
Rock Bottom Carpets: Where The American Dream Lives And You Reap The Benefits
What Makes Ronnie Roll Firefighters, FEMA, And Festivities... When I met with Mayor Ronnie for this edition, I was treated to the additional presence of... Page 21
November 6 - November 19, 2015
Chris and Tiffany Seibert
Bill Trail, co-founder of Rock Bottom Carpets, assisting a customer at the new Athens location
By Ali Elizabeth Turner Nineteen years ago, Rock Bottom Carpets co-founder Bill Trail found himself in a spot that no one enjoys, better known as the crucible, or, in modern language, “Rock Bottom.” He was go-
Continued on page 17
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Publisher’s Point
The Nazarene Fund In The Nazarene’s Season
Publisher / Editor Ali Turner
Sales
Deborah Huff
Graphic Design
Jonathan Hamilton
Web Design Teddy Wolcott
Delivery
Hunter Williams
Contributing Writers Janet Hunt Rachel Clark, RN, BSN Lynne Hart Shelley Underhill Teresa Todd Sandra Thompson Jerry Barksdale Deb Kitchenmaster
Maybe you have seen a somewhat Arabic-looking smiley face with a dot in the middle all over the Internet and social media, and had no idea what it was. The illustration contained here in Publisher’s Point will bring you up to speed, but hopefully, you won’t stop there. The Nazarene symbol, (the smiley face thingy), is used by ISIS much the same way that the yellow Star of David was used by the Nazis against the Jews: it means that ultimately you are marked for death. If you are a Christian in Iraq, you have already seen a veritable holocaust, and yet, hope is coming in some gutsy ways that I want to tell you about.
all over the earth—in China, North Korea, and the Middle East, especially in Iraq and Syria. And, through the blessing of technology, there is something you can do to help Christians in Iraq and Syria.
believer, they would complete the bottom half of symbol with their sandal, thus drawing a fish in the dust. Both people would know, (or at least hope), that the other was safe. I have never forgotten that story, and it is painful to
There is a project that is called the Nazarene Fund, and it has raised millions of dollars to get Christians out of Iraq and Syria, and to safety. What has impressed me the most about this particular project is the use of lessons and questions learned and asked by the intelligence community when it comes to “screen-
When I was about
and like any good “op,” not much can be said about the details, other than the fact that a jet is being chartered, and another wave of people are going to make it out alive. We could not do much here in the States during WWII to save Jews, but I have heard the stories of many in Europe who risked their lives to get Jewish people to safety. However, we as believers have a vetted opportunity to do what could not be done 75 years ago, and if that is something that would seem like a worthwhile way of expressing thanks and solidarity during this holiday season, you can go to www.now.mercuryone.org to find out more about what you can do. The Naza-
Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 6 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 7 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Shelley . . . . . 13 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 14 Cover Stories . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Jerry’s Journal . . . . . . . . 19 Horse Whispering . . . . . . 20 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 21
10 years old, several years before I became a Christian, I learned in Sunday School that in the early days of the Christian Church, believers would meet other people in the road, and draw with their sandal the top half of the fish symbol, the equivalent to the Arabic/Nazarene symbol in the time of the Roman Empire. If the other person were also a
Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 From The Vets Museum . . 23
November 6 - November 19, 2015
know that while I live in freedom in the USA, others are being beheaded. Until recently, I did not feel able to do much more than pray. And while I don’t believe we are yet in the Great Tribulation as classically portrayed in the book of Revelation, it cannot be denied that there is “great tribulation” and bloody persecution of Christians
ing” people to determine if they are authentic and genuine candidates for repatriation. This prevents dollars of well meaning people from being squandered, and does more to make sure that people are the “real deal,” and therefore veritable candidates to start a new life in a new land. Right now there is a new airlift being organized,
rene is being celebrated, and many of the Nazarenes in the Middle East can indeed be spared.
Ali Elizabeth Turner Athens Now Information & Inspiration 256-468-9425 ali@athensnowal.com Website: www.athensnowal.com
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All Things Soldier
Thomas, Tripoli, And Terrorism by Ali Elizabeth Turner Did you know that we have been officially involved in fighting terror since 1801? King Solomon so wisely said, “Ain’t nuthin’ new under the sun,” (well, that may be the Casual Revised Version of the fella’s philosophy), but except for very brief seasons of respite, we as Americans, and more specifically, our troops have always been involved in fighting terror. And further, if we are going to keep from completely crumbling as a culture, and being annihilated as a nation, fighting terror is something we must be willing to fight on principal in order to be free. When we were an infant nation, President Thomas Jefferson got himself a copy of the
Koran to see what he was up against in Tripoli, and then committed ½ of our top of the line ships, (and that would mean a whopping total of three naval vessels from our flotilla) to blockade the harbor of Tripoli. Why? Because 200 years ago, there were those jihadists who felt their “Godgiven purpose” was to destroy freedom, and we were then, as now, in their crosshairs.
rically are opposed to each other. Soldiers know this, and
Here is a newsflash, or for some of you, a revelation: The whole concept of freedom straight up freaks terrorists out, no matter their philosophical or religious beliefs. Terror by its very nature is successful only when it controls, and freedom and control are diamet-
November 17th
11am - 1pm and 5pm-7pm
17915 W Elm St • Athens, Alabama • 256-232-0029 Page 4
map for where you are going, and I believe we as a nation, and our troops specifically, have been given a wonderful gift in the form of a new book. It’s called, “Thomas Jefferson And The Tripoli Pirates: The Forgotten War That Changed American History,” written by Brian Kilmeade and Don Yaeger. What happened in Tripoli, and its effect on the American story, is no longer taught in schools. However, Kilmeade and Yaeger have done us a great service by digging into the facts of the fight, the bravery shown by our Marines against the Barbary pirates, and how we can apply it to our current distress.
Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)
$7
this week it has been announced that they are going back to Iraq.
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Now, I could spend several versions of Soldier breaking down the mistakes we made in Iraq, but in a very real way, it really doesn’t matter what kinds of mistakes we made. The truth is, terror never rests, and neither can we. And, if they are going back, we need to “go back” with them, and back them with all we have. I don’t know how many of our Joes and Janes are going back to the Great Sandbox, and for now we are told we are fighting ISIS in Iraq on an “advise and consent” basis. However, sometimes knowing where you have been can serve to be a road-
There were Marines, led across the African desert to the port of Derna by a man by the name of William Eaton, and they took it, hoisting the American flag for the first time on foreign soil. There was the necessary destruction of the USS Philadelphia after it had run aground in the Tripoli harbor. He then escaped under a hail of gunfire. There are many more tales of bravery and courage to feed our souls. Most importantly, we are being blessed to the story of a President who did not shrink back from bullies, and learning about what Jefferson faced is a tale we can use in these times to shore ourselves up.
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Special Feature
The 2015 Athens Christmas Open House: A Tradition to Experience by Ali Elizabeth Turner For nearly three decades, Athens merchants located on and off the Square have thrown a “shopping shindig” that has become a traditional part of the Athens Christmas Season. This year, the 29th Annual Christmas Open House, sponsored by the Limestone County Chamber of Commerce, as well as the Spirit of Athens, will be held on Saturday, November 21st, from 10am to 5pm, and Sunday, November 22nd, from 1pm to 5pm.
wish lists. Businesses participating in Christmas Open House will offer in-store specials, refreshments, door prizes, and will also have registration cards for the Grand Prize, compliments of Hobbs Jewelers. Additional Christmas festivities will be held in downtown Athens during the two-day event. Santa will make his grand arrival to the
Athens Square by fire truck on Saturday as well as Sunday at 1pm, and will be available for photos until 3pm each day at the Athens State University Center for Lifelong Learning, located at 121 South Marion Street. Photos will be taken by a local professional photographer and will cost $10. There will be carolers spreading good cheer as they sing
you definitely have to be “in it to win it” if you want to go home with the prize. Details on the “Tacky Christmas Sweater” contest can be found on the Christmas Open House event Facebook page (Athens, Alabama Christmas Open House) or by shopping during the holidays a lot less stressful and much more enjoyable.”
The annual shopping extravaganza features retail merchants and restaurants throughout Athens ready to assist shoppers with tackling their Christmas present and stroll in and out of stores on the Square. In addition to Santa’s arrival, you can visit with Mother Christmas, as well as shop the Merry Market. The Merry Market is an event recently added to the festivities whereby home based businesses can display their wares at tables located inside the Center for Lifelong Learning on the mezzanine floor. The hours for the Merry Market are the same as the rest of the event. There are always some fun features that are a part of the Open House for merchants not located in downtown Athens. Shop with those participating merchants and be on the lookout for the “Elf on the Store Shelf” contest. Proprietors will hide one of Santa’s elves somewhere in their store, and the one who finds it can take the elf to the Chamber of Commerce office to redeem their surprise. There will also be a “Tacky Christmas Sweater” contest, and
November 6 - November 19, 2015
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calling the Chamber at 256232-2600. Several of the businesses will be giving away their own door prizes, and there will be special sales and discounts with the participating Christmas Open House merchants. Jennifer was pleased to announce that “this year we have the greatest number of businesses participating in our Christmas Open House,” and is expecting that the turn out will be good. She also told me why she, as a wife, mom, and businesswoman enjoys the Christmas Open House so much. She said, “What I like most about Christmas Open House is being able to shop local and support our hometown small businesses. You don’t have to go to the mall, everything is right here. We have carolers singing and strolling on the square and fun festive Christmas activities to enjoy. It’s a unique atmosphere and makes
Jennifer discussed the positive impact that the Open House has had on our local economy, and was grateful for the faithful participation, year after year, that has come from both the merchants as well as the citizens. She said, “The Athens Christmas Open House has become an annual shopping tradition for many. We are proud to have the opportunity each year to provide a unique holiday shopping experience for both the community and the merchants. Each year we try to improve on the previous year and add something new and exciting to the event” If you are wanting a successful holiday shopping trip with a softer, more relaxed, small town feel, beautiful decorations, music, refreshments, prizes and more, then come make some memories on Saturday, November 21st and Sunday, November 22nd at the Athens Christmas Open House. You can greet your friends, find the perfect gifts, taste delicious holiday food, and actually enjoy yourself!
For more information, contact the Limestone County Chamber of Commerce at 256-232-2600. Page 5
Calendar of Events raised will go to the renovation efforts of the Donnell House. For more information: (256) 232-0743.
Science Fiction: Science Future Now - Mar 6th
U.S. Space and Rocket Center. One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL. The future is now! Move objects with your mind! Become invisible! Play games with a robot! Experience augmented reality! Science, Fiction, Science Future brings the science of the future into the present, sending visitors on a unique journey filled with science exploration, curiosity and discovery. For hours of operation, admission, and contact information: rocketcenter.com/admission
Alabama Veterans Museum Golf Tournament Nov 6th
Canebrake Golf Course. Founders Circle Athens, AL. Join the Alabama Veterans Museum and Canebrake Club HOAS for a 4-person Scramble Golf Tournament. Shotgun start: Flight 1 8:00AM; Flight 2 1:00PM. Foursome Team $500.00; Foursome + Mulligan Pack $600.00. Cost includes lunch, range balls, door prizes, t-shirt and prizes for teams, longest drive, closest to the pin. To register or more information: 256-771-7578.
Hilltop Arts Festival Nov 7th
Elkmont, AL. 9:00AM-3:00PM Hilltop Arts Festivall feature Tennessee Valley artists selling their handmade or repurposed art. The entertainment will be from local musicians and may include a few special guests. The admission is free. Donations will be accepted. The money raised will go to the Pinkerton Award. The Pinkerton Award is an Arts scholarship to be given to a student at Elkmont High School to help them pursue a career in the arts. Join the conversation at Facebook Hilltop Arts Society . For more information visit hilltopartsfest.com
3rd Annual Sherri Adams Pink Ribbon Run/Walk Nov 7th
Athens, AL. Join the Athens-Limestone Hospital Foundation for this memorial run of Sherri Adams, a dedicated nurse at the Limetone Health Facility that fought cancer and succumbed to complications in 2011. In the spirit of Sherri’s giving to others and desire for more cancer awareness and prevention -- money from the run is used to update mammography equipment and offer opportunities for early detection to women and men in the Limestone community. Team cost and goals may vary. For more details or to register, visit sherriadamsrun.com
Romeo and Juliet Nov 12th - 15th & 19th - 21st
McCandless Hall. Athens State University, 300 North Beaty Street, Athens, AL. Join the Athenian Players as they present this classic play featuring tragedy of teenage lust, love, feuding families, dueling and death set in a Renaissance-Punk influenced Verona. Tickets: TBA
Donnell House Couture Christmas Nov 20th - 28th
Donnell House. 601 1/2 South Clinton St, Athens, AL. Join the Donnell House for this annual tradition and celebration. All money Page 6
Cowart Elementary Rivalry 5K Run Nov 21st
Cowart Elementary. 1701 West Hobbs Street, Athens, AL. James L. Cowart Elementary PTO is pleased to announce the 1st Annual Rivalry Run to be held at 8:00AM on a certified 5K course with computerized timing. Walkers and strollers welcome. Participants are encouraged to dress in their favorite SEC time colors. For more information: Alisha Cannon AlishaC1129@hotmail.com
Christmas Open House Nov 21st - 22nd
Downtown Athens, AL. Christmas comes early to downtown Athens with caroling, specials for shopping to help complete your Christmas list and Santa! The jolly old elf rides into downtown Athens, AL on a shiny red fire truck at 1:00PM and will be available for photos and gift wishes from 1:30PM-4:30PM at the Center for Lifelong Learning on Marion Street each day. For more information, contact the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce at 256-232-2600.
Piney Chapel Alumni Reunion Planning Meeting Nov 22nd
Piney Chapel Alumni Reunion will be April 30, 2016 at 2pm in the gym. Planning meetings are scheduled at Johnny’s place, 14441 Lucas Ferry Road, on Nov. 22, Jan. 17, and Mar. 20 at 3PM. We need help to plan a great reunion. We can be reached on facebook at Piney Chapel Alumni Reunion and on e-mail at PineyChapelAlumni@gmail.com. Also contact the following people: Christie Porter 614-9011, Cadie Jackson 497-3322, Nikki Usery 278-6312, James Bailey 777-6580, Ray Patterson 233-0129, Robert Schrimsher 7774367, or Al Bush 874-0310.
Skip the Crowds Shopping Day Nov 27th
Mooresville Mercantile. 5081 Mooresville Road, Mooresville, AL. Enjoy shopping without the hustle and buy hand selected American Made goods for Christmas including ornaments, pottery, furniture and more. For more information: 256-309-9085.
Minor Hill Christmas Parade Nov 29th
Minor Hill, TN. Giles County High School Band of Gold will be leading the parade. Parade starts at 2:00, LineUp at 1:00 @ Minor Hill Community Bldg. No cost to enter! Categories are: Vehicles, Recreational Vehicles, Performing Groups, Floats, horses, and Overall Winner for Best Theme. No Santas allowed, because we have one that will be on our float near the end of the parade. We appreciate your support. Please come be a part of our parade this year and make it our biggest & best ever. For more information 931-565-3113 or info@minorhilltn.com 4.7 miles from Lester AL.
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Special Feature
SOS Insurance: Affordable Rates, Dedicated Agents, And An Additional Location by Ali Elizabeth Turner Are you aware that if it is extremely difficult for you to qualify for insurance, there are two experienced insurance agents in Athens and Florence who take great pleasure in finding policies for “the uninsurable?” For the past year, Sherry McCafferty and Tammy Vaughan of SOS Insurance have been located at 1102 South Jefferson, Athens, AL 35611. The phone number is 256-2629133, and their office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 to 5. They are also pleased to announce that they have been able to open a brand new office in Florence. The address for the new location is 1905 Florence Blvd, Florence, AL 35630, and that phone is 256-284-7148. At the moment, Sherry is manning the Florence location, and Tammy the one in Athens, but the hope is that Sherry’s husband Steve is going to be able to join the SOS team soon. His previous line of work has been in fabrication, and Steve is looking forward to starting a new career with two seasoned agents. Between them, Sherry and Tammy have decades of experience in writing insurance policies, and worked together for many years at another firm. Sherry started off her career in the insurance industry somewhat looking at her work “as a job, and then it became a passion.” It is a passion for Tammy, too. The firm where they formerly worked experienced great change during the shake up in the insurance industry that was such a big part of the beginning of the Great Recession. Eventually the firm was bought out, and Sherry figured it was time to start SOS. She chose the name because so often people are in distress with their insurance, and need someone who really cares about helping people to “save [their] ship.”
Tammy followed soon after SOS opened its doors at their previous location on Market Street. “It was sink or swim,” Sherry said, and they knew that the secret to success was going to need to be “over-thetop” customer service. That was a good move, and in an era when insurance companies are not really popular with the general public, SOS has been able to build a solid customer base. It has been that satisfied set of customers
Sherry McCafferty, (L) and Tammy Vaughan, of SOS Insurance
Florence
that has enabled them to open the Florence location. Sherry and Tammy understand that “there are a lot of good people who are down on their luck, and we like to help.”
They offer another service that other agencies sometimes don’t, and that is month to month contracts. These are perfect for people who, for example, need to have their car covered in order to sell it. One thing that is very important to both of them is maintaining their reputation for treating people like they are
covered,” they told me. SOS Insurance specializes in customizing policies for people with unusual circumstances, such as “SR22s,” the policies that are required if someone
Athens They have also found that the smaller insurance companies have the same desire to meet the needs of people who “can’t” be insured. “You may have to pay higher premiums, but almost everyone can be
November 6 - November 19, 2015
vice. They have also recently added healthcare insurance. “We have about 12 companies that we find have been the best fit for their clients in terms of pricing and coverage,” Sherry said. They are: Safeway, ACCC Insurance, Access, Assurance America, Dairyland Auto, Dairyland Cycle, Everest/Arrowhead, Haulers’ Insurance, Key Insurance, National General, (formerly GMAC,) Progressive and Foremost. All of these companies have “passed muster” with SOS, and have been found to be solid and reliable. Recently they added Progressive to their lineup, which provides more choices, and now they also offer renters’ insurance. If you have found yourself in need of help in getting insured, or are just looking for friendly, caring professional
has had previous DUI trouble and is now in the process of rebuilding their lives. They also will do everything they can to time your payment so that it fits with when you get paid.
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adults, as well as with professional kindness. “We have been told that we are friendlier,” Sherry said. “If you call us, we will find you the cheapest price possible, but we will not keep after you to buy,” she added. Tammy also told me that SOS has a strict policy that they will never sell you anything that you do not need or want. It is also not uncommon for other agents to send them referrals, because they can find policies that others can’t or won’t. While auto insurance is their “bread and butter,” they also cover boats, motorcycles, RVs, trailers, and SUVs, and promise the same great ser-
insurance agents, come to SOS Insurance and let Sherry or Tammy find you coverage that will truly meet your needs while respecting your budget.
SOS Insurance 316 Market Street W. Athens, AL 35611 256-262-9133 1905 Florence Blvd. Florence, AL 35630 256-284-7148 Hours: M-F 8:30-5 Email: sosinsurance@ yahoo.com
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Tourism
Veterans Parade And Christmas Open House by Teresa Todd, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association The Alabama Veterans’ Museum will have their monthly Coffee Call Saturday November 7th at 8AM. Following Coffee Call, get ready for the annual Veterans Day Parade at 11AM in Athens, AL. The event is organized by Roxanne Haggermaker along with area veteran’s organizations. Veteran Roger Keyes will be the Grand Marshal for the event. Everyone is invited attend to support and honor the service and sacrifice of all veterans and active duty military personnel. There is no fee to enter your vehicle, bike, horse and carriage, tractor, eighteen-wheeler, fire, or police vehicles, however donations will be accepted. To learn about registering a float, marching band, group or individual participant, please call Roxanne at 256-206-6702. Stuff the Barn for Peace, Love and Animals & Adoption Day will be also on November 7th at Cotton State Barns/Rocket City Barns 17486 US-72, Athens, AL. Join the Rocket City Barns and Peace, Love and Animals from 10AM to 2PM for an adoption event with dogs and cats that are awaiting forever homes. Rocket City Barns also wants your help in stuffing a barn full of pet supplies that will help Peace, Love and Animals continue their mission in the community. Items requested are dog food (regular and special diet), cat food (regular and special diet), dog & cat toys, dog & cat treats, bedding, collars & leashes, paper towels, cleaning supplies, Kuranda raised beds and monetary donations to help with vet bills and shelter needs. For informa-
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tion call Marcie 256.221.7062. The AMVETS Post 21 located at 22769 Black Road, Athens, AL will have a great local band, Trippin’ Dixie, on November 7th at the AMVETS Post along with food and fun. Come enjoy this family friendly event with live music from 7PM to 10PM. Cover Charge: $5.00 The Hilltop Arts Festival in Elkmont, AL will also be spreading the fun on November 7th from 9AM to 3PM featuring Tennessee Valley artists selling their handmade
or repurposed art. The entertainment will be from local musicians and may include a few special guests. Admission is free, however donations will be accepted. The money raised will go to the Pinkerton Award Arts scholarship to be given to a student at Elkmont High School to help them pursue a career in the arts. For more information, visit hilltopartsfest.com. If this isn’t enough to do on this first Saturday in Novem-
ber, let’s see if we can add one more important event to the schedule. On November 7th the 3rd Annual Sherri Adams Pink Ribbon Run/ Walk will be held in Athens, AL. Join the Athens-Limestone Hospital Foundation for this run in memory of Sherri Adams, a beloved nurse at the Limestone Health Facility who bravely fought cancer, but succumbed to complications in 2011. In the spirit of Sherri’s giving to others and desire for more cancer awareness and prevention. Money
from the run is used to update mammography equipment and offer opportunities for early detection to women and men in the Limestone community. For more details or to register, visit sherriadamsrun. com On November 12th-15th and 19th-21st, you can attend the romantic tragedy of Romeo and Juliet in McCandless Hall at Athens State University located on 300 North Beaty Street Athens, AL. Join the Athenian Players as they pres-
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ent this classic play featuring tragedy of teenage lust, love, feuding families, dueling and death set in a RenaissancePunk influenced Verona. On Nov 19th you may want to attend the Donnell House Couture Christmas Preview Day located on 601 1/2 South Clinton Street, Athens, AL. Join the Donnell House for this exclusive and limited preview day. Then on Nov 20th-28th the Donnell House Couture Christmas will be open to the public for their annual traditional celebra-
tion. All money raised will go to the renovation efforts of the Donnell House. For more information: (256) 232-0743 Cowart Elementary will have their 2nd Annual Rivalry 5K Run on November 21 at Cowart Elementary on 1701 West Hobbs Street, Athens, AL. James L. Cowart Elementary PTO is pleased to announce the 2nd Annual Rivalry Run to be held at 8AM on a certified 5K course with computerized timing. Walk-
ers and strollers welcome. Participants are encouraged to dress in their favorite SEC time colors. For more information, contact Alisha Cannon at AlishaC1129@ hotmail.com Have you always wanted to learn how to do basket weaving? On Nov 21st Holiday Basket Weaving will be held at Mooresville Mercantile located on 5081 Mooresville Road Mooresville, AL. This beginner’s basket weaving course will be taught by Sara Glines of Mt. Crescent Crafts, Randolph, New Hampshire. You have a choice of weaving a Candy Cane Basket or a Christmas card basket. Sara will lead you through each step to a completed basket. No previous experience required. Registration includes lunch and is limited to eight participants. From 9AM to 1PM. More information and registration at Shop.MooresvilleMercantile.com Nov 21st - 22nd is the Christmas Open House in Downtown Athens, AL. Christmas comes early to downtown Athens with caroling, specials for shopping to help complete your Christmas list and Santa! For more information, see the article on page 5 or contact the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce at 256-232-2600 As always, see more information on events and activities at the Tourism website VisitAthensAL.com or visit our Facebook page, “Athens-Limestone County Tourism & Athens-Limestone Visitor Center.” You can also email me at Teresa@VisitAthensAL.com or call me at 256-232-5411.
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Clean and Green
Supporting KALB Into The Future by Lynne Hart
The end of the year is approaching quickly. Thoughts will move toward roasting turkeys, Christmas shopping, family gatherings, and last minute tax deductions. Yes, it’s sad but true. Thoughts of red ribbons will be mixed with red ink and red tape! If you are searching for a deserving organization to give a tax-deductible donation, Keep AthensLimestone Beautiful offers more than one way to do that. A Little About Us Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful has been in existence since 1977. A great deal of changes have taken place in the appearance and the mindset of this community since then. Litter, although still present, has decreased considerably just since I came to this organization in 1999. Volunteer hours have vastly increased as well, reflecting a change in attitudes regarding our local environment. Green space and landscaping have improved in many areas, thanks to our Athens-Limestone
Beautification Board and private and public improvements. Our organization has helped shape these changes through environmental education in our city, county, and private schools, as well as programs such as Adopt-A-Spot, the Elk River Canoe & Kayak Trail Cleanup, Clean and Green Fiddlers Convention, and the Earth Day & Outdoor EXPO. Written articles and social media are used heavily to get the message regarding responsible care of our local environment out to the public. The first rule of donations is to make sure the organization to which you are donating is reputable. Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful stands on its reputation in this community for many years. Our staff is available to answer any questions you may have. Financial Donations Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful works with a very tight budget yet continues to provide services and programs throughout the year. Although appropriations are received from the City of Athens
and Limestone County Commission, a huge portion of our budget must be raised through fundraisers, memberships, and donations. We count on financial gifts from supporters to fill that financial gap. Check with your employer to see if they have a program that will match your donation. We accept donations in many forms, and we’ve made the process even more convenient by adding the option of making a donation online. Visit our website and you will find this option under the Donate tab.
that desire well. You can provide now for a future gift to Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful by including a bequest provision in your will. Vehicle Donation KALB also participates in the Cars to Donate program through Keep America Beautiful. If you have a car, truck, boat, RV, motorcycle, farm equipment, or other vehicle (running or not) that you would like taken away with one phone call, we can help! Call 855-426-2427, answer a few questions, and designate Keep Athens-
Limestone Beautiful as your local affiliate of choice who will share in the profits once the vehicle is sold. A receipt will be provided so you may claim your donation as an income tax deduction. For more information on this program, visit our website at www.KALBCares.com and you will find this option under the Donate tab. Thanks for considering Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful when making your charitable contributions. We promise to be good stewards.
Gifts for the Future A bequest is one of the simplest ways to support Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful. If you’d like to help ensure that future generations will be taught to love this community through caring for the local environment, then your bequest would serve
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Become a Fan
(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com November 6 - November 19, 2015
Cooking with Shelley
Mock Sweet Potatoes by Shelley Underhill If you’re like me, you are always looking for ways to cut your calorie intake. Recently I started experimenting with the different kinds of squash we have at our fingertips in our local supermarkets. I found that butternut squash is about half the calories of sweet potatoes and just as tasty. Give It a try! You can email me at shelleysdesk@gmail.com
Mock Sweet Potatoes 2 medium Butternut Squash ½ cup Splenda or Truvia 1 stick real Butter
Method of Procedure Cut slits in squash, cook in microwave separately for around 11-12 minutes each. When cooked, let cool. Cut long ways and remove seeds. Spoon out squash into a deep pie dish and sprinkle with Splenda. Cut slits and place butter into slits in squash flesh. Heat in microwave until mixture is bubbling. Enjoy. Note: You can also make the above recipe in a conventional oven. Bake at 375 degrees for one hour.
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Health and Fitness
Fitness Opportunities in Athens Limestone by Janet Hunt
Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment. My friends, family, and students are always asking “What is the best exercise?” A really quick answer is– whatever works for you! Consideration should be given to what you enjoy, your available time, and current fitness level. No matter how great others say a particular activity is, if you don’t enjoy yourself, you won’t continue. If you are not sure what you enjoy, consider your goal. Are you working on your balance, overcoming an injury, preparing for a sport or competition, losing weight, building muscle, lowering your cholesterol, or working on overall fitness, etc.? Ask yourself if you enjoy groups, outdoor activities, or competitive activities? Do you need individual instruction, or are you confident in your fitness knowledge? Do you need someone to be accountable to or someone who motivates you? What is your budget? What is your schedule? Now that you have some questions to consider, let’s look at your options in the Athens area. First, let’s look at local gyms and some of their characteristics: •Athens Limestone Wellness Center •Lion’s Den •Riviera •SportsFit Not all gyms are the same. Prices vary. Some offer different memberships depending on what you use. Some require contracts, some have a signup fee, some offer a daily visit
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•Jan Layton’s walking group - moonglow@hiwaay.net Last, but definitely not least, is personal training. Personal training can be either one-on-one or in a small group. The training is specific to you and your goals. Personal training is motivating and will hold you accountable. You can train indoors or outdoors, at your gym, your home or a trainer’s studio. If you are interested in personal training, do your homework to find the trainer that will best work with you.
price. If you are interested in classes, look at what they offer and try a few before joining. Some even have 24-hour access.
classes all over town and several places to walk indoors. Below is just a partial list of classes that I know about:
Athens Limestone Wellness Center has a lap pool if you swim. SportsFit and the Wellness Center offer water classes. Membership at some gyms give you access to additional facilities in Huntsville, Madison, or Decatur. If you are looking for personal trainers, check prices and their training policies. Finally, check out the facility itself for cleanliness and type of members it serves.
•Silver Sneaker Flex classes at Athens Senior Center 256-614-3530
Prefer to stay outdoors? Athens offers several great places to walk, run and bike.Jan Layton has started an outdoor walking group (moonglow@hiwaay.net). Debbie Kulmer offers boot camps (256.777.2519). Elkmont has the Richard Martin Trail that is great for walking or biking. Want to stay indoors and take classes? There are
•Silver Sneaker Flex classes at East Limestone Senior Center 256-614-3530
and prices vary to fit your budget. Some classes are drop-in and some classes you need to reserve space. Make some phone calls and do your research. Indoor walking: •Walmart, Lowes or Kmart •Sardis Church
Springs
Baptist
For more information regarding fitness opportunities in the Athens Limestone area call Janet at 256-614-3530, email at jhunt1@pclnet.net, or look for Janet’s Fitness on FB. Note: I apologize if I left some fitness opportunities off this list. Please let me know and I will include them next time.
•Silver Sneaker Flex classes at Round Island Baptist Church 256-614-3530 •Zumba at Rec Center 256233-8740 •Kettlebell, TRX, or Sandbag classes at Balance Training 256-777-2519 •Yoga with Kerry (256) 975-6820 •Yoga with Donna (andrfun@charter.net) •Tai Chi, Yoga, and martial arts classes at UpDog 256206-5488 •Miscellaneous classes offered at Athens Limestone Wellness Center, SportsFit, and Riviera. All classes are open to all
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November 6 - November 19, 2015
Cover Story
Choose Chris Seibert To Represent District 5 In The Alabama State House by Ali Elizabeth Turner
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the candidate from their party for the final election in February of 2016. Athens City Councilman Chris Seibert is running for the 5th District House seat, and he would like your vote. Why should you give him your vote? As I sat on his front porch, and asked him about his record, his plans, and his goals, here is some of what he told me: “During the time I have been a member of the Athens City Council, we have achieved the strongest record of creating jobs—5,000 new ones, to be specific, and that is something I am very proud of.” He also added, “I am fiscally conservative, and always have been. The Athens City Council has operated that way, too, and we have ended every year with a balanced budget as well as a surplus. We were able to buy fire trucks, police cars, put in sidewalks and purchase equipment that has bridged some technological gaps.” He talked about some things about District 5 and Limestone
County that are unique. First of all, we are the smallest county in the State of Alabama, and through the years, we literally have gotten chopped up through redistricting. At times, this has made us the “red headed stepchild” when it comes to appropriations, something that troubles many. If elected, Chris would be the only District 5 legislative representative who actually lives in Limestone County, and as someone who is also a local business owner, he would fight to protect our District from encroachment or neglect, whatever its current source. Keeping our local “sovereignty” is one of the ways that he can help us from Montgomery to get what should rightfully go to our area. “We need a voice that can speak up from the standpoint of living here and dealing with the result of decisions made at the State level.” It is interesting to note that Chris is in the lead in the race, and his opponent has spent nearly twice as much to get elected. “It says something when you’ve been outspent and are still ahead,” he said. He has said that he and his family have been encouraged by the outpouring of support that came in the wake of the smear
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tactics used in the September 29th primary. “People know me, and they know that stuff is not true,” he said. While it’s aggravating to be “attacked-by-PACs,” he has taken it in stride. We both talked about the fact that most often the loudest detractors are also ones who have no actual helpful ideas of their own, and are not themselves out in the community for the purpose of building it. So, I asked, “Why do you take it, and why are you running?” The long version of his answer is below, and taken from his website: “After talking to Tiffany
and my family I came to the decision to run because I want Limestone County to continue moving forward and to have
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the representation it deserves. I believe in serving the people and making sure Limestone County continues to receive jobs, economic development
and that we receive our fair share from Montgomery. Limestone County is a great place for families to call home and I want to make sure that we have the resources to build new roads and infrastructure, support our law enforcements, and preserve our conservative values. Our state is at a crossroads and I feel that my business experience and service to my country has prepared me for this opportunity. Now more than ever it is time to cut the wasteful spending and do more with less. As the father of two small boys I know firsthand what is at stake, the future of Alabama is happening now.” The short answer is found in the life of the guy who loves his family, will crawl under his own house to fix a leak so he can “save 750 dollars,” coaches his boys’ sports teams, teaches Sunday School, played football for ‘Bama, and was given the Officer of the Year award by his unit while serving overseas: “This is my home, and I want to make a difference.” This is Chris Seibert, and he would appreciate your vote on December 8th.
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November 6 - November 19, 2015
Cover Story
Rock Bottom Carpets: Where The American Dream Lives And You Reap The Benefits by Ali Elizabeth Turner
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ing through a divorce, living in his car because he wanted his family to be comfortable and not uprooted, and he had no job. His co-worker and best friend from an earlier flooring job, Beau Kyne, got together with Bill and started Rock Bottom Carpets. They were able to use a single abandoned carpet sample display, and borrowed sample decks. They chose the name as a way to remember where they had been, and have never looked back. “We borrowed $900 from a relative to open our first store,” he told me, and since then there have been Rock Bottom locations throughout North Alabama. This is the type of American small business story I love to tell the most, often affectionately known as “mess-to-success,” and while I listened to Bill field calls from customers as well as crews working out in the field, I could see why his drive and willingness to take care of customers has paid off. “Our first big break occurred when musical artist Cooper Getchel came in the store, needing a vinyl floor at a bargain rate,” he told me. Cooper worked for the late Michael Jackson and other famous musicians, and had just finished a jingle for WHNT. He offered to write Bill and Beau a jingle in exchange for the merchandise. They agreed, the jingle went on the radio, and the result was almost more business than they could handle. They were rolling, and it wasn’t long before they began to build several new locations. The latest success story is the store located in Athens on Hwy 72 just across from M.E.W.S. lighting. The address is 802 Hwy 72 W, Athens, AL, 35611. The others are in Huntsville, Madison, and Decatur. When I walked in to the store, Bill had
marine board for the subflooring, installing the vinyl, and finishing it with quarter round. The total package? $273. Bill is passionate about saving people money, and strengthening the local economy. ”If you will do a little of the work, (moving the small things), “we will save you big bucks,” he said. Rock Bottom has extremely low overhead, all installers are insured, all products are made in North America, and some right here in Alabama. He loves beating the prices of big box stores, and his operating philosophy is, “Why send money to other
having a “Home for the Holidays” sale on carpet, hardwood and laminate flooring. “Now is the time to get started with getting your home ready for family and friends, and we are ready to help,” he said. He told me that as a customer I would save money, he would overnight the materials and begin the project the next day, and his crews are “uber-experienced” and insured. “The customer has to be fully satisfied before anyone is paid,” he said, “so we are motivated to do an excellent job.” I would say that nearly two decades of “gettin’ ‘er done” with excellence and speed proves that
Vickie Parker helping Stephanie Dugan (going to measure her rooms)
already sold 2 new orders that morning. Any retail industry, store or service has a “niche,” the sweet spot from which most of their business is attracted through word of mouth or other kinds of advertising. For Rock Bottom Carpets, the majority of their business is defined as “existing residential” and with a smile, Bill, (who clearly loves a chal-
lenge), told me “because no one wants it.” This is because you never know what you are going to be encountering; often there is repair or replacement
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involved with the sub-flooring, and it can be both toxic and dangerous. It so happens that we are in need of replacing our main bathroom floor, so I began to talk to Bill as a wouldbe customer. “First of all,” he said, “if you order by 2pm, we can install it the next day.” We looked at some medium range vinyl flooring that is similar in ap-
pearance to the present one, and much better quality. Bill quickly calculated everything, including the removal and reinstallation of the toilet, putting down
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states?” Rock Bottom is also the exclusive distributor for the Dreamweaver Soft Nylon line of carpet in North Alabama. “Dreamweaver is unusual, because it is the industry’s first bleach resistant nylon carpet,” he said. Rock Bottom also specializes in Mohawk flooring, America’s number one name brand. “Dreamweaver Soft Nylon, and Mohawk Smartstrand Silk are the best carpets I have ever seen,” Bill said. You can tell that someone is sold on a product when they use it themselves, which Bill does. During November and December, Rock Bottom Carpets is
he stands by his word, and if you are wanting to make your home more beautiful this holiday season without breaking the bank, come see what Rock Bottom has to offer.
Rock Bottom Carpets, Athens 802 Hwy 72 W, Athens, AL 35611 Phone: 256-998-5010 Hours: M-F 8:30-6, Sat, 9-5 www.rockbottom carpets.net Page 17
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November 6 - November 19, 2015
Jerry’s Journal
Where Hell Was Green, Part 1 by Jerry Barksdale School in 1962. September, 1968. Somewhere over the South China Sea. 1st Lieutenant Joseph “Joe” Rogers, born in tiny Thomasville, Alabama and reared in nearby Demopolis was finally heading to Vietnam. By Christmas over 31,000 of his fellow Americans would be dead and the number was certain to rise. At the moment, Rogers was more concerned with arriving alive than returning alive. The “Anxiety Flight” as the soldiers called it, was an old 727 rusty bucket owned by Northwest under contract to fly troops to Cam Rahn Bay. “All of the rivets rattled. It shook, rattled and rolled,” says Rogers, a resident of Limestone County since 1990. “We thought the wings were coming off. Not only that, they put the ugliest stewardess they could find on the plane. And the only thing we had to drink was milk, water, and soda.” Perhaps the miserable 13-hour flight from Seattle to Tokyo and on to Vietnam was a harbinger of events to come. He hoped not. The plane rattled and droned onward giving him time to ponder why he was onboard. He had lettered in football, basketball, and track while working part time before graduating at Demopolis High
The next two years, he worked and attended Livingston State College and the University of South Alabama. He dropped out a semester and Uncle Sam took notice. He was drafted on November 3, 1966. Following basic training at Ft. Benning, Georgia, he completed Advanced Infantry Training at Ft. McClellan, Alabama. That experience convinced him there had to be a better way of serving his country. “I got tired of crawling on my belly to the mess hall and doing push-ups at the drop of a hat,” he says. Fate intervened. One day a crusty old Sergeant walked out of the orderly room and bellowed at the young soldiers “All right you pukes, who wants to go to OCS?” That’s Officer’s Candidate School. “I was the first one to raise my hand,” says Rogers, who was accepted and sent to Ft. Sill, Oklahoma for a grinding six-month course. “It was tedious. Everywhere we went we had to run; constant harassment and dropping for pushups. There was Ranger Patrol in the barracks at night which was making us get down on our hands and knees with a towel and clean the floor.” He also learned about leadership, customs, traditions and even how to set a proper place at the table – things an officer needed to know. After receiving his “but-
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ter bars” and commissioned Second Lieutenant, he was assigned to a field artillery battery as Executive Officer in support of units that were going to Vietnam. “We stayed on the firing range day and night. No vacations, no July 4th, no holiday,” says Rogers. A year passed. “One day I was told I was going to a unit in Vietnam where I would need a top secret clearance.” The background check took 6 months and cost the government a wad of money. It included interviews with his high school teachers and combing through public records where they discovered he had paid a trespassing fine as a boy after shooting a deer on government land. “It crossed a fence and died on private property. That became a big thing, and I had to explain what happened,” says Rogers, who eventually received top secret clearance. “But why top secret?” he wondered. It had to be something important. At least he wouldn’t be a grunt crawling through the stinking jungles, swatting mosquitoes and dodging bullets. Good news arrived. He would proceed to Vietnam for assignment to 2nd Field Force, headquartered in Saigon, a somewhat cushy job, with high Command. The plane dive bombed into Cam Rahn Bay to avoid small arms fire. Rogers stepped off into a steaming oven of 105 degrees. Quarters were
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assigned. A big burly Sergeant in charge of arrivals said: “Okay, all you officers come back tomorrow morning at 7:00. I’ll have your orders.” No worry. Rogers had his orders safely stowed away in his duffle bag. “I already have my orders for 2nd Field Force,” he told the Sergeant. Early next morning, he awoke to Vietnamese maids cleaning the barracks and paying no attention to half naked soldiers. He dressed and fell in formation. Shortly, the burly Sergeant appeared. “Okay, I got orders for you guys,” he said and started calling names. He called off two names to go to 2nd Field Force, but Rogers wasn’t one of them. “Something’s not right here,” Rogers said to the Sergeant. Then the Sergeant called Rogers name for assignment to the 1st Air Cavalry Division. “What? This can’t be!” Rogers handed his orders to the Sergeant who tore them in half and threw them in a small fire. “How can you do that?” asked Rogers. “The Government has spent all this money and it took six months to get my top secret clearance and the first thing you do is burn the orders.” “Sir, my orders are to backfill the 1st Air Cavalry Division and that’s exactly what I’m doing.” The 1st Air Cavalry had suffered heavy casualties during the recent TET Offensive and replacements were
needed. Two days later, Rogers was helicoptered to Ankhe where the famed 1st Air Cavalry Division was headquartered. The Division, organized in 1921, was known as the “First Team.” Their predecessors had fought Indians on horseback. They were the first Americans to enter Manilla during World War II and the first to enter Japan. During the Korean War they were the first division to enter Pyongyang, North Korea, and they were the first Army division to be deployed in Vietnam. Instead of horses, now they rode helicopters. He spent 8 to 10 days in Ankhe polishing up on combat and survival skills and was issued a new uniform, boots and an M16 rifle. He knew he was heading to combat. Wearing his spanking new green uniform, he loaded into the belly of a C123 transport plane, found a seat on the floor and lifted off to LZ Nancy, a firebase located near the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone separating North and South Vietnam). The fire base was studded with heavy artillery and served as Battalion Headquarters. It was called “Palace Guard” by the men who rotated back there after days and sometimes weeks in the jungle on search and destroy operations. When patrolling grunts located the enemy, they called LZ Nancy’s Fire Direction Center for arContinued on Pg 23…
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Horse Whispering
Noticing Change Noticing change is a good part of being an excellent learner. How is your “noticer” working these days? When an individual makes a commitment to simply “notice,” their world begins to flow with life, simply because of the awareness of change. It may be the smallest of changes, yet when one notices, a wave of encouragement and gratitude flows in place of dismay. When we fail to “notice,” we can become discouraged because we are not aware of any change, and think that nothing is changing or even working! Notice the two words in the word NOTICE……not…. ice. Ice does not flow, does it? Oh, a chunk of it may float, but floating isn’t flowing. To be empowered is to allow change, self-discovery without guilt or shame, and encouragement (to name a few,) to flow into your life. This empowerment comes into our lives every time we spend time with a horse. Why? Horses either whisper
or shout to us to NOTICE something about them, us, or our environment. Horses are good at training us. They let us know that we had better not canter “or else,” or stay away from that mounting block. Or, “I don’t do plastic containers without going crazy.” They cause us to either choose to avoid or to develop leadership. After all, the world of horses is all based on dominance, and who is number one.
by Deb Kitchenmaster
horse. Ask someone who has horse sense, not someone who is highly opinionated. Get clarity. You are experimenting with
As I engage with people and horses I am meeting for the first time, the communication usually is based on their interpretations, some of which are accurate, and some of which simply are not. As a mentor, I purpose to help individuals understand horses. When we understand, our interpretation shifts, and we have another notch on our belt called experience. If a horse acts in a certain manner and I don’t know how to interpret the actions of the horse, this will cause me concern and even fear. When this happens, create space between you and your
your horse just as much as your horse is with you. You may be wondering, “I wonder what my horse will do when I purpose to close the gate while I’m on his back?” The horse, who is skilled at outwitting his predators, asks
the same question. “Hum. I wonder what the human would do if I _____?” The more you understand the horse, the more your interpretation will be accurate. Corral Connections has begun a mentoring program. How exciting! The learner is engaged in NOTICING.
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The learner is becoming aware of body language, presence and intentions. The learner is seeing horses as horses, not humans or dogs. The
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learner is taking in approach and withdrawing. The learner is observing how horses and humans communicate. The learner perceives things about himself, the world of horses, and how to develop strategies. The learner is discerning and detecting himself, the horse, and the environment in each session. One of my objectives as a mentor is to safely invite the learner outside his or her comfort zone. This is the very place where learning to notice happens; however,
not “too” far outside the comfort zone. An equally important objective is for human AND horse to experience the building of confidence! One session at time, one “notice” at a time, one interpretation at a time and one experience at a time, the foundational blocks in which confidence is built are put in place. This creates a foundation on which to build a relationship. Wishing all of you wonderful readers of ATHENS NOW a delightful Thanksgiving, and if you happen to choose turkey for your meal with one of those little button deals stuck in the breast, you may want to notice if it’s all the way out before you start carving! Your NEIGHbor, Deb Kitchenmaster Corral Connections: Connecting with LIFE through a horse Animal B.E.S.T practitioner dkitchenmaster@mchsi.com
November 6 - November 19, 2015
What Makes Ronnie Roll
Firefighters, FEMA, And Festivities by Ali Elizabeth Turner When I met with Mayor Ronnie for this edition, I was treated to the additional presence of Acting Fire Chief Bryan Thornton and City Hall Communications Specialist Holly Hollman, (whose comments below will appear in italics.) The three of them were fresh off of a FEMA graded exercise that had been held at Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant, and the test scenario had to do with terrorism. I asked Bryan, “How’d we do?” “We did well,” he told me, although they don’t have their final FEMA grade back yet. “The departments all worked well together,” Bryan said, “and that is super important in that type of emergency.” He went on to tell me how much firefighting
ing up real soon: “Athens firefighters work as Santa’s elves during the holiday season. The firefighters provide Santa transportation to local events such as Christmas Open House and the LincolnBridgeforth Park Committee Tree Lighting Ceremony. Athens Fire and Rescue provides Santa a ride via fire truck instead of a sleigh.
Through fundraisers, the auxiliary provides Christmas to children submitted by local schools. These are children whose families need help in providing Christmas. The children pair up with a firefighter and shop for Getting ready to help distribute bicycles $100 worth of necessiat the Lincoln-Bridgeforth Park ties, toys and clothes. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony The firefighters are often touched by the selflessness of these chilDemonstrating how to put out a natural had changed in the 20 gas fire. This was taken at Leak City, the dren, many of whom years that he has been Athens Gas Dept. training facility ask to purchase an on the force, and how item for another memevery firefighter has ber of their family.” to be trained, certified and able to deal with all types of hazardous situations. “We have equipment now that can do everything from lift someone off a floor, to rescuing people using the ‘jaws of
life,’ to a rough terrain vehicle that can get an injured person off one of our trails. Our fire trucks are now really a mobile station,” he said. He added, “What we can do is function as first responders until the ALS (Advanced Life Support) people get there, and be ready to go to the next emergency without having to go back to the station. It’s a big change from when I was doing EMS, and from when I first became a firefighter.”
Bringing Santa to Christmas Open House
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Holly talked about some of the fun things firefighters get to do, some of which are com-
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At the tree lighting, firefighters and police help distribute toys and bicycles to children. The Lincoln-Bridgeforth Park Committee receives the names of children through agencies such as the Boys and Girls Club. Thanks to donations, the committee helps provide Christmas gifts to these children. By participating in the event, firefighters get to interact with the community, particularly the youth, and help share the Christmas spirit. Firefighters also work as Santa’s elves through the Athens Fire and Rescue Auxiliary ‘Shop With A Firefighter’ program.
Bryan mentioned that there is an increase in fires during the holidays due to space heaters, Christmas trees and deep fryers for turkeys. “We want people to be careful, and get heaters away from curtains and bed spreads, be sure to water your tree, and use your deep fryer properly.” He finished his visit with a heartfelt expression of satisfaction at being able to have a job where “you know at the end of the day you have made a difference.”
Mayor Ronnie added that “The excellence of our fire department, and how well Bryan, the battalion chiefs and all the firefighters are doing to help everyone from kids to the elderly is something we can be very thankful for and proud of.” Then Bryan and Holly got “back after it,” the Mayor and I prayed, and it was time once again for Ronnie to roll.
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Medical Update
Nutrition and Mental Health, Part 1 by Rachel Clark, RN, BSN Few of us are aware of the connection between nutrition and depression, despite the fact that we understand to some extent the relationship between nutritional deficiencies and physical illnesses. Depression is still thought by many to be a biochemical or emotional based issue, however nutrition can determine the extent and duration of depressive symptoms. Neuroscience research conducted by clinicians like Dr. Caroline Leaf and others suggests that nutritional factors are very much intertwined with emotions, cognition, and behaviors. Some of the most common mental health issues include obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and ADD/ADHD. Numerous studies show that the dietary intake pattern of most American and Asian populations as opposed to Mediterranean countries are often deficient in nutrients such as essential vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. Also, evidence now suggests that the pathology of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) may be rooted either primarily or secondarily to oxidative stress in the body (A. Sarandol, ET AL.). Our brains are more sensitive to oxidative stress and free radicals than other tissues. The brain is only about 2% of the weight of the human body, yet it uses approximately 20% of its energy. MDD is also distinguished by the activation of an inflammatory
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response system, thus increasing free radical production. What is interesting is that inflammation shows up in different people as different symptoms. Some people may exhibit cardiovascular disease, others diabetes, or an autoimmune disorder. Still yet others manifest depression, anxiety and mental illness. It is no surprise that these things are often listed as comorbidities (the presence of two or more chronic diseases) since they have the same root: inflammation. What was interesting in the study relating MDD to oxidative stress was the conclusion: the drug combination used had no effect on measurable oxidative stress markers in the body at the end of 6 weeks. So what is the solution? Many people think vitamins will help their nutrient
deficiencies, but according to a study done at John Hopkins University, vitamins are at best a waste of money, providing no clear benefit. At worst, they can do more harm than good, with high concentrations of isolated and fractionated vitamins E and A, as well as beta carotene, could increase the risk of death in certain individuals. Therefore, use vitamin supplements judiciously, or avoid them altogether. This still leaves the question as to how to nourish our bodies, and therefore our brains. The solution is a diet that is high in the various micronutrients we need to keep our bodies functioning such as vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folate (or vitamin B9), zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids (EPH/ DHA). The Mediterranean Dietary Pattern (MDP)
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which is high in fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and oily fish is now thought to reduce inflammation due to its richness in antioxidants that come from these whole foods. “Optimizing our nutrition is a safe and viable way to help avoid, treat, or lessen the symptoms of mental illness. Poor nutrition is a significant and modifiable risk factor for the development of mental illness,” said Julia Rucklidge, a PhD professor of clinical psychology in Christchurch, New Zealand, who has studied the treatment of ADD/ADHD and other mental health issues with micronutrients for the last 10 years. We rely on medications, but honestly we need to stop visiting the “pharmacy” and start visiting the “farm” to decrease the prevalence of mental ill-
ness. I am not dismissing the effectiveness of medications on some severe forms of mental illness, nor advocating that you should stop treatments prescribed by your healthcare practitioner without first consulting them. They can be very effective for some people in the short term, but on a long term basis have lasting effects on our bodies. Despite our reliance on these drugs, our outcomes are no better than they were 50 years ago. The research is clear: the well nourished brain is better able to withstand stress and recover from illness. Sixty to eighty percent of people will respond to better nutrition. Let’s get serious about the role nutrition plays not only in our physical health, but also our mental health.
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Jerry’s Journal (continued)
Where Hell Was Green by Jerry Barksdale tillery support. Shortly the big guns were belching steel. Rogers was assigned to 1s Battalion 77 Field Artillery as Battalion Ammunition Officer. His job was to keep several batteries supplied with ammo. The ammunition depot was located 22 miles north of LZ Nancy near the DMZ where his crew was located. Each day he went there by jeep, carrying mail, where ammo was loaded on “slingouts” and helicoptered to firebases. “Those guys were located away from their base and somewhat on their own,” says Rogers. “They were
responsible for taking care of themselves.” As always, necessity is the motherhood of invention. “They had a ¾ ton truck to haul ammo, but it hauled only one half of what was needed at any one time,” says Rogers. The largest truck authorized was a 2 ½ ton called a “deuce-‘n- half.” He asked his crew about getting a larger truck. “Sir, the only thing we see around here are five ton trucks,” they replied. “Well, said Rogers. “If you can’t find a “deuce‘n-half” and since 1st Cav doesn’t authorize a five ton truck, we’ll have to do with what we got.” Several days later, Rogers was at LZ Nancy
when he saw a five-ton truck approaching in a cloud of dust. It was his ammo team. They had driven down to get mail, fresh uniforms and eat meals before returning the following day. “Where in the world did y’all get that five ton truck?” asked Rogers. “Sir, it’s a long story,” replied the Sergeant. “You see, there was this SeeBee up there. One night he got drunk at the NCO club and was driving this five ton truck. I found him in a ditch - he had run off in a ditch.” “That’s just half the story. What’s the rest?” demanded Rogers. “This guy was passed out. We took him to the hospital and just took the truck.”
About thirty minutes later, Rogers was summoned to Battalion Headquarters. The Colonel had seen the five ton truck also and knew it wasn’t authorized. Rogers explained what happened and the Colonel relented, but with a stern warning. “Don’t ever ever let this truck on this location again. I never want to see that truck again.” The truck gave good service and the crew was happy. “Over there, if you needed anything, you had to trade for it, scrounge for it, or do some midnight requisitioning,” says Rogers.
ment was shooting rats. “They were big as raccoons, “ says Rogers. “If there was a lot of shooting going on, you knew there was a problem going on at the fence, but if one shot, it was the rat patrol.” He was just settling into his new job when he received orders to go to the field as an F.O. (Artillery Forward Observer). That meant he would be in the jungle on search and destroy operations where there was great danger. “When am I going?” he asked. “Tomorrow morning.”
Most nights at LZ Nancy were spent playing poker in hooches, but the biggest entertain-
To Be Continued…
From The Veterans’ Museum
The Governor’s Own
by Sandra Thompson
151st Alabama Army National Guard Jazz Band will be playing November 6th, at 3PM at the Limestone County Event Center at 102 West Pryor Street, Athens, Al across from the Alabama Veterans Museum and Archives. The 151st Army National Guard Band (also known as the Governor’s Own) is headquartered at Montgomery, Alabama, but its members come from all over the state (from Mobile to Huntsville), Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and North Carolina. The band is under the direction of W03 Mark Mills of Montgomery, Alabama. The 151st Army Band is famous throughout Alabama for its Concert Band, but it also has several “bands within the band” including a jazz band, rock combo, and woodwind quintet.
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November 6 - November 19, 2015
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