Athens Now 9-20-19

September 20th - October 3rd, 2019

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See Our Listings Inside this edition...

Pages 25 - 32

Special Feature Rocket City Barns: Making Things Easier For Everyone...

Marcy Baker is the owner of Rocket City Barns, and her story starts with her grandfather who came to Ellis Island from...

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Special Feature

Toodlebugs: Where Quality And Families Are The Focus

By Ali Elizabeth Turner When you walk into Toodlebugs during this fall season, the first thing you are going to see is a rustic dollhouse displayed on an antique table, surrounded by autumn leaves.

Continued on page 15

El Pollo Maniaco: A Year Later, And Better Than Ever...

It is hard to believe that a full year has gone by since I first had the pleasure of telling you about El Pollo Maniaco, an authentic eatery in...

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Special Feature Choice, Chance, Change...

“The 3 C’s in life: Choice, Chance, Change. You must make the Choice, to take the Chance, if you want anything in life to Change.”...

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September 20 - October 3, 2019

Melissa Anderson, owner of Toodlebugs

The 53rd Annual Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers’ Convention Is Almost Here!

By Ali Elizabeth Turner

Fiddlers fans in front of Founders Hall

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Autumn in Athens-Limestone County is one of the best times of the year. Known as “Festival Season,” what kicks it off each

Continued on page 17

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September 20 - October 3, 2019

Publisher’s Point

The Last Gasp Of The Gray Lady

Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Copy Editor

Yvonne Dempsey

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Contributing Writers D. A. Slinkard Lisa Philippart Lynne Hart Anna Hamilton Sandra Thompson Jackie Warner Wanda Campbell Deb Kitchenmaster Tim Lambert Rosemary Dewar Nick Thomas

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4

I grew up in the Cold War, and one of the things about which American journalists and journalism felt some concerted compunction was the demand to be truthful and unbiased in reporting the news. Whether it was newspaper, radio, or the recently invented television, everyone and their brother knew that the hallmark of a true journalist was neutrality, and opinion pieces and columns were clearly marked as such. By contrast, the Soviets had what was a straight up propaganda rag called Pravda, (which ironically means “truth” in Russian) that began in 1912 during the beginning of the Bolshevik movement, which then became a revolution and lasted until the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991.

Pravda was mocked by Americans irrespective of their political leanings, unless they were communists. It was everything a

newspaper was not supposed to be. After all, we had the New York Times, affectionately known as the Gray Lady, the most decorated newspaper in the world. Winner of 127 Pulitzer prizes, it was the gold standard for all others, and its Gothic header was often imitated by lesser publications. Imitation was the sincerest form of flattery, and that’s about where the competition stopped. The NYT Bestseller List was where authors wanted to land, and staying there for weeks meant your work would become a classic.

As the Weekly Standard so eloquently stated in 2010, “The sobriquet (the Gray Lady nickname) implied a certain stateliness, a sense of responsibility, the possession of high virtue.”

I think it’s safe to say that the journalistic equivalent of hospice has been called in to the Lady’s bedside.

The President of the United

States tweeted, “They’ve taken the Old Grey Lady and broken her down, destroyed her virtue and ruined her reputation... She can never recover, and will never return to Greatness, under current Management.” And while the president’s tweets could never pass for journalism, and they don’t have to, he underscores the fact that a blatant disregard for the once honorable art of communicating current events has taken a hold of her by the throat, and the death rattle is deafening.

Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh came under attack again courtesy of the NYT, and the piece is so thin and bizarre that even the Times had to walk it back by admitting that the supposed victim had no memory of the alleged incident. Stated another way, the piece is so bad that even people who still secretly believe that

Special Feature . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 6 Special Feature . . . . . . . 7 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 8 Slinkard on Success . . . . . . 9 From The Vets' Museum . . 10 PlayAction Sports . . . . . . 11

Justice Kavanaugh is morally bankrupt, truly perverse, and shouldn’t be on the bench, are crying foul when it comes to what the Lady is allowing to pass for journalism.

Joe Scarborough, who in no way could be considered a journalist by classic standards, excoriated the NYT for its ineptitude. "How did the @nytimes editors fail to include the below info in their article re: Kavanuagh [sic]? Would they have done so had @MSHemingway not noted the glaring omission yesterday? It was a stunning decision to leave that central fact out of an article filled with damning accusations." (The omitted info was the fact that the supposed victim had no memory of the incident.)

Republican Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas tweeted that “it’s almost as if the reporters, editors, publishers have a political agenda.” (ALMOST???) Me thinks the senator speaketh somewhat tongue-in-cheek. Sadly, it appears that on her deathbed the Gray Lady decided to hyphenate her surname and add, Pravda. Rest in peace, old girl, if you can.

We will do our best to remember you how you once were.

Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Anna . . . . 13 Ali Elizabeth Turner Athens Now Information & Inspiration 256-468-9425 ali@athensnowal.com Website: www.athensnowal.com

Millenial Mind . . . . . . . 14 Cover Stories . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Health And Fitness . . . . . . 16 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . 18 View From The Bridge . . . 19 Mental Health Minute . . . 21 Medical Point . . . . . . . . 22 Horse Whispering . . . . . 24

September 20 - October 3, 2019

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All Things Soldier

The 2019 9/11 Heroes Run

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

This past Saturday was the Travis Manion Foundation/ 9/11 Heroes’ Run, held in Athens at the Veterans Museum.

For a number of reasons, this race has a lot of emotional significance to me, mostly because back three years ago, it was only the second 5K I had ever completed; and I still wasn’t sure if I could actually do it every time. Now I know that I can, and I love to do 5Ks and support the causes behind them.

Also, the Heroes’ Run purposes to take one of the most horrible things that ever happened on American soil and turn it into something good, and people of all “poundages” (read that fitness levels) and persuasions come together to honor the fallen. First responders, firefighters in full battle rattle, teams, families, kids being pushed in strollers, old, young, people of all colors come together to beat feet down the streets of Athens in order to show their heart for our soldiers, our country, our freedoms, and each other.

Some run the course in 20 minutes, others walk it in an hour, and nobody cares who is the fastest.

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This year there were well over 600 people who came (the largest group ever), and there was just the perfect amount of gentle drizzle to cool us off.

On two sides of City Hall, starting with Marion Street in the early stages of the race, and then on Pryor Street when we were huffing and puffing toward the finish line, a solemn line of sentinels stood with the resolve of a soldier guarding the Tomb of the Unknown.

There were framed pictures of the fallen on easels, and above them stood a line of individuals bearing the colors. I swallowed hard as I ran by both times.

I also want to say that of all the 5Ks in which I have completed in the last three years, there was something especially powerful as well as energizing about completing the 2019 Heroes’ Run. This was largely due to the fierce vocal support we received as we crossed the finish line. I imagine that on this side it is the closest thing to being surround-

ed by the great cloud of witnesses that I will ever experience, and I would expect that the roar of the crowd will be just as loud, if not louder.

Before the starting gun, we were treated to a speech by a former Navy SEAL by the name of Michael Cross, who was present with his wife, Ashley, and their children. He told of the service and sacrifice of his fellow teammates as they served in Iraq and endured way too many deployments to Afghanistan. Michael told of

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a creed by which they lived, and I have decided to incorporate it into my daily ritual. He said they lived by three mandates: Be Strong, Be Accountable, and Never Complain. And then he said something with the caliber of compassion I encountered daily when I lived amongst SEALS on Radwaniyah: “For some of you, ‘being strong’ means getting out of bed every day and washing your face, because of the grief you are going through.”

You see, true warriors,

when it comes to dealing with civilians, are not all about BMI, how many one-handed pushups they can do in 60 seconds, or whether it takes longer than 60 minutes to complete a 5K. They are about digging deep, finding strength and increasing it, and then sharing it with others who may need to borrow some, especially in times like these. They live by the motto that shows up on every Travis Manion 9/11 Heroes Run T-shirt: “If not me, then who?”

It is for reasons such as these that the words of a SEAL almost always make a knot in my throat, even 15 years later. We are blessed to be able honor them and the rest of our first responders, and may we never lose sight of what has been given so that we can breathe free.

September 20 - October 3, 2019

Special Feature

Rocket City Barns: Making Things Easier For Everyone

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Marcy Baker is the owner of Rocket City Barns, and her story starts with her grandfather who came to Ellis Island from Malta. Through a series of misunderstandings, her family ended up in Canada, worked hard, and built their own businesses. Her grandfather became well known for his custom craftsmanship in the form of building round windows, and Marcy essentially cut her eyeteeth on entrepreneurialism in her grandfather’s hardware store. She got her degree in computer science from the University of Toronto, and then came to the States. The degree in computer science really was only something she would have used as a fallback career if needed, but she graduated with high marks. For several years, she worked in the automotive industry as a Mobile Certified Electrician, and was in Decatur at a major auto dealership. That is where she met Daniel, and the rest makes for a fascinating tale. Both were single parents, married, and blended their families a year later; and Marcy started the “Buy Here, Pay Here” auto dealership known as Rocket City Motors, as well as the “barn” dealership.

Whenever Daniel talks about Marcy, he always grins and says, “I married up.” With respect to both businesses, they took a huge risk to make it easy and affordable for their customers to get financing, not require a credit check, give great customer service, and hold fast to their integrity. Daniel has told me more than once, “We may not be getting rich, but we can sleep at night, and look at ourselves in the mirror in the morning.”

Speaking of integrity, the barns are made by Cotton States, and that company is famous for its Mennonite workmanship. The barns, sheds, greenhouses, livestock shelters, cabanas, and playhouses are constructed locally, and Rocket City Barns does the delivery. On the day I interviewed Daniel, I was particularly captured by a playhouse that has a loft in it.

He told me that right now the loft playhouse model is one of their most popular items.

He let me go explore it, and it features a door in the back that an adult can walk through, as well as a pint-sized one in the front. The playhouse has a small porch, and could be a tiny house for a tiny person.

The tiny-house movement is one of the things that is fueling sales, and shows no signs of slowing down. Because Rock-

(L-R) Sabrina Glover, Victoria Hamilton, Lorelei Hamilton, Sherry Lee goofing off in front of one of the most popular of the Rocket City Barns

Rocket City Barns owners Daniel and Marcy Baker ed to apologize to the people of Athens-Limestone County for the traffic issues that may have arisen in the process of

Cotton States has made it possible for the barns to be purchased 90 days same as cash.

Dan and Marcy were really surprised by this move, as usually credit is needed for these programs. “It’s a new feature of our rent-to-own program.

You can pay zero down on most models, no credit check, no income questions, early payoff options, simply amazing,” Dan said. Lifetime warranties are also available, and in Alabama, delivery and set up are free. In addition, some-

The other arm of the barn business is the portable metal building business; and Rocket City Barns sells Max Steel buildings, which are made in Murfreesboro. There are carports, full garages, and two-story structures, and are available at a fraction of the cost of other structures.

“We are so happy with these guys,” Dan told me, and added, “They have been good to us, and you can’t beat their product.” If you are looking for a portable building or carport, you need to come to the two locations of Rocket City Barns, and let Dan and Marcy help you find just what you are looking for.

Rocket City Barns West

et City Barns now features portable buildings which are 16-feet wide, the extra square footage makes the prospect of getting a tiny house with just enough space to be comfortable at a more-than-comfortable price is another thing that is boosting sales. Some people use them for other things as well, such as personal gyms or offices. Dan and Marcy want-

September 20 - October 3, 2019

the wider houses being hauled through town on delivery day!

times there are re-pos. “We are so grateful for the support of the Athens community,” said Marcy. “We feel blessed to have been here all these years. We have selected our manufacturing and financial partners very carefully. We will always have the best price guaranteed, and this makes things easier on everyone,” she added.

17486, US-72 Athens, AL 35611 (256) 221-7062 Hours: Mon-Fri. 9-5, Sat 9-4 Rocket City East 26912 US-72, Athens AL 35611 www.athensnowal.com

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Calendar of Events Second Sundays On The Square

Businesses will be open from 12pm-4pm on these Sunday afternoons for local residents and out-of-towners alike to come enjoy what downtown Athens has to offer during the weekends. For more information contact Merritt Malone at 256-777-7519 or merritt5485@gmail.com

Houston Memorial Library and Museum FALL HOURS

101 North Houston Street in Athens. Tue - Thurs 10am-4pm • Fri 10am-1pm • First Saturdays - 10am-1pm. Antiques mingle with new book releases to create an inviting atmosphere for both book lovers and historians alike. We have all genres for all ages! The Governor's home displays local history while maintaining a fully functioning lending library. We invite you to stop by for a visit. 256-233-8770.

POW/MIA Ceremony September 20

Alabama Veterans Museum, 100 Pryor Street, Athens. 11:30 AM. The Honorable Ronnie Marks, Mayor City of Athens, will be our guest speaker. Refreshments following ceremony.

Duck & Run 5K September 21

Start and finish in Big Spring Memorial Park. 125 East Street in Athens. Starting at 7:00AM. Join Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful for this annual fundraiser run through scenic Athens.

Proceeds benefit Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful. Early registration $20. Late/Race Day registration $25. For more information or registration: DuckandRun5K.com

NEWSTART Club will meet again to inspire and instruct you! Free to the public. Some tasty food samples along with a heaping of health enhancing info will be served. Free book drawings. Hope to see you there! 256-658-7477.

155th Anniversary of the Battle of Sulfur Creek Trestle September 25

Elkmont, AL. This Civil War battle centered on the railroad (now the Richard Martin Rails to Trails), adjacent fort and blockhouse. Explore more of this battle and more our Civil War history with the Athens-Limestone Civil War Driving Tour brochure available at the Athens-Limestone Visitors Center.

Nashville Bluegrass Band September 26

Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention Concert Series at McCandless Hall of Athens State University. 300 Beaty Street N in Athens. 7:00PM-8:30PM. Tickets: $10.00 (plus tax & fees) at Eventbrite.

Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder October 4

Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention on Founders Green of Athens State University. 300 North Beaty Street in Athens. 4:00PM and 6:00PM. One-Day ticket: $15.00; TwoDay Ticket: $20.00 at the gate or online at Eventbrite For more information and schedules: TVOTFC.org

Annual Indoor Yard Sale October 5

St. Paul Catholic Women will have its annual indoor yard sale from 7 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at 1900 Hwy 72 W, Athens, AL. Lots of stuff, great prices. For more info call 256-431-3213.

Cultural Concerto in the Park September 21

With Kingdom Way Christian Center. Trinity-Fort Henderson Complex, 606 Trinity Circle in Athens. 2:30PM. Free and open to the public featuring all styles of cultural music, food, games, gifts, face painting, vendors and more. Bring your chair.

3rd Annual Community Kickball Tournament September 22

Hearts for Homeless Yard & Bake Sale October 5

At Revival, 305 West Washington Street in Athens. 8:00AM2:00PM with a variety of items to shop.

Johnson Elementary School. 21360 AL-251 in Athens. 2PM8PM for adult coed tournament. No childcare available, adjacent field will be available for the kids to play. Sponsored

by Lindsay Lane East, Mays Memorial, and Johnson Booster Club. Dinner provided. For info: Greg Wise 256-874-4734.

NEWSTART Club Meeting September 24

Spaghetti Meal at the Vietnam Veterans of America Building 3rd Monday Monthly 17915 W. Elm St. in Athens. 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. and 5:00-7:00 p.m. Cost is $8. Eat in or carry-out. Profits fund scholarships for local students. Please call ahead for group carry-outs or more info 256-431-3213.

Athens Public Library, Community Room. 6:30 p.m. The Page 6

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September 20 - October 3, 2019

Special Feature

El Pollo Maniaco: A Year Later, And Better Than Ever

by Ali Elizabeth Turner It is hard to believe that a full year has gone by since I first had the pleasure of telling you about El Pollo Maniaco, an authentic eatery in Tanner whose food is what you would find if you were eating in the coastal Mexican state of Guerrero. I can truly say that the many times I have either eaten there at the restaurant, which is located at the intersection of Hwy 31 and the Huntsville-Brownsferry/ Tanner Road, or have ordered food to go, I have left with a full tummy and a happy heart.

I particularly enjoy telling the stories of local entrepreneurs who come to America, fall in love with it, and partake of the possibilities that can only happen in the free market; and Poli and Guadalupe Avelino have done just that. Poli came to the States when he was 16, and settled in Los Angeles. He spent 30 years in the restaurant industry, and his place was featured in an article which appeared in the Los Angeles Times. He had never planned on living in Alabama, but in 2010, moved here to help a cousin who had a restaurant and bakery in Russellville. In 2018, the opportunity arose for him to have his own place; and since then, we have been blessed to have El Pollo Maniaco join the lineup of great eating establishments that call Athens-Limestone County home.

Poli’s story is unique in that originally he did not plan on having Mexican food on his menu, even though he comes loaded with family recipes, spices, secrets, experience, and cooking methods that more than qualify him to successfully bring Guerrero

here. What he is also good at is American food, and his plan was to have a place that served American breakfasts and homemade hamburgers from 6 a.m.-2 p.m. However, word got around about how good his “home cookin’” was, and because of public demand, El Pollo Maniaco found a way to do both.

“We never expected the kind of support we have received,” Poli told me when I asked him to give a re-cap of the

Maniaco. “We never expected that, either,” said Poli with his eyes wide.

“I am happy here,” he said with a smile.

So, what is on the menu?

From the Mexican side, what you will find are generously-sized portions of things such as a carne asada (steak) burrito that includes rice, beans, onions, cilantro, cheese, salsa, and sour cream for $7.99, and the

Areli Mendoza and Anna Leon last year. The place is busy, and word has gotten around to everybody about the food, not just Hispanics. We have people who drive here from Madison and Huntsville to eat, and are begging us to open up a second place,” he said. When you go to Pollo Maniaco for lunch, you’ll see crews of people who work together also eating together, folks of every color and age group sitting down, and in addition, there is a brisk takeout business. They are quick, too. If you are in a hurry, I can say from experience that your meal will be right up. Another surprise has been the start of the catering arm of El Pollo

September 20 - October 3, 2019

chicken burrito has the same ingredients for one dollar less.

You can get individual chicken tacos for $1.50 and steak tacos for $1.99 each. There are Mexican plates served with rice, beans, and fresh tortillas, and they vary from chicken, steak or shrimp fajitas, mixed fajitas, to tilapia.

Pollo asada, the incomparable grilled chicken starts at $4.99 with 2 pieces of chicken, rice, beans, tortillas, and salsa, to a whole chicken (8 pieces) with the same sides for $12.99.

There are also family dinners of 4 ¼ lb burgers, 4 French fries and 4 drinks for $18.99.

Polo and Lupe Avelino, owners of El Pollo Maniaco, and son Miguel

menu, a breakfast burrito (no meat) features 3 eggs, hash browns, cheese and salsa for $3.99. If you add your choice of bacon, sausage, ham or chorizo, the burrito is $5.99.

There is an extensive selection of breakfast dishes with eggs cooked to order, hash browns, toast and jelly, with meat that ranges from sirloin steak to grilled chicken breast

to huevos rancheros. Same goes for omelettes, French toast, hot cakes, sandwiches of all kinds, and burgers.

There is also an ample kids’ menu, and drinks start at $1.50. If you are looking for Mexican or American food that is “real and reasonable,” come to or call El Pollo Maniaco for a true feast, whether you dine in or take out.

On the American side of the

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

I Hope You Dance

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Monday morning by any stretch was a hard beginning to the week, and yet it ended up being filled with hope. I sat alone at the round table in Mayor Ronnie’s office and prayed for the Travis family while I waited for him to walk in. I still couldn’t get my head around such a horrific attack, and could only deal with it through prayer.

I heard the mayor coming, greeting everyone with a smile “as is his wont,” but for all the times as we have met in his office, I have never seen him do what came next.

We have discussed in several Ronnies how much the mayor hates litter. In his arms was a pile of books, beautiful ones I might add, that had been left outside a pick-up box on Hwy 72 near the car wash in the Hobbs Shopping Center (See photo). There was a whole lot more trash outside the box, and the mayor had even found the mailing labels on some of the packages. Be advised, one is from Toney, one from Tennessee, and don’t be surprised with the new litter laws in place, if

you are contacted and confronted.

He said firmly, “Look at this!” Then, he let the books fall to the floor (See the other photo). They were beautiful books, most of which were about how to draw, and were in great condition. “C’mon, man!” he said with an understandably raised voice, and then asked, “Who would do this?”

Several members of the City Hall staff came in and could see what was going on, as his voice had carried down the hall.

But then, hidden amongst the discarded treasures was a sparkling gem in the form of a gift book with a CD (which was gone from the sleeve on the inside back cover) entitled, I Hope You Dance. It was small and square, and I happen to own the exact same book. In fact, I devoured that book and CD years ago when I was in an intense personal crisis.

It contains the lyrics to a song by country artist Lee

Ann Womack of the same title, and may it give you hope as it did us on Monday morning.

I hope you never lose your sense of wonder, You get your fill to eat but always keep that hunger, May you never take one

single breath for granted,

you dance.

GOD forbid love ever leave you empty handed,

(Time is a wheel in constant motion always rolling us along.

I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean, Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens, Promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance, And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance.

I hope you dance….I hope you dance.

Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens, Promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance, And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance.

Never settle for the path of least resistance

I hope you dance….I hope you dance.

Livin’ might mean takin’ chances but they’re worth takin’,

I hope you dance….I hope you dance…

Don’t let some hell-bent heart leave you bitter, When you come close to sellin’ out reconsider, Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance, And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance.

I hope you dance….I hope you dance.

I hope you dance….I hope

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I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean,

I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance,

Lovin’ might be a mistake but it’s worth makin’,

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Tell me who wants to look back on their years and wonder where those years have gone.)

Dance….I hope you dance.

(Time is a wheel in constant motion always rolling us along.

Tell me who wants to look back on their years and wonder where those years have gone) (Copyright - Sanders, Mark D.; Sillers, Tia; Womack, Lee Ann [2000]) The profound conclusion for a chaotic Monday moment?

Don’t litter, and don’t be bitter. Then it was time to pray, and pray fervently, and then Ronnie rolled.

September 20 - October 3, 2019

Slinkard On Success

Let God Be True And Every Man A Liar

by D. A. Slinkard We live in the day of fake news. We do not know if the leading story is true, and we sure do not know whom to trust. You can go to the self-help section of the bookstore and spend countless hours trying to find some help; or you can do what I suggest and invest in a good ole King James Bible. Anything and everything you need to know in life can be found right there in your Bible. I mentioned not knowing whom to trust, well the Bible tells us in Proverbs 3:5, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”

This instruction is very easy to comprehend but extremely difficult to follow when it comes to the world we live in today.

We think we are smarter than the average person, and we end up fooling ourselves into thinking we are something that we are not. How do we overcome the valleys in life? Easy, do what the Bible says and trust in the Lord with all your heart. By the way, while you are doing that go ahead and use the Bible for your final authority in faith and practice. What does that mean? It means if the Bible tells you to do something, just do it.

How many heartaches in life could we avoid if we would just listen to what the Bible instructs us to do?

What does this mean? We need to first start with the definition of the word “precept,” and we find that it means a general rule intended to regulate behavior or thought. With this understanding, we can gather the Psalmist is saying if God is against something that we are for, we are the ones that are wrong, and God is right. If your pastor is preaching on something you do not like and he is using sound Bible doctrine and you disagree, just know you are disagreeing not with the pastor, but with God Almighty.

Instead, we go about living life thinking it is all about us. We go about our everyday life seeing what kind of enjoyment and pleasures we can get. How many of you are always looking forward to the weekend?

How many of you like this

time of the year because of the enjoyment of watching football? The Bible tells us in 1 Corinthians 10:31, “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” That is powerful -- doing all things to the glory of God. I do not think we can truly comprehend the change that would take place in our society if we had Christians living out their life in a way to bring glory and honor to God.

living their life, acknowledging Him, I believe God would direct their paths and would change the wickedness going on in our land. God already tells us so in 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”

I hope you understand how powerful God’s Word truly is and the answer to our question about what we can do to help our country is not in gun control laws or in allowing abortions. The answer is found by turning to what God says in His Book.

Proverbs 3:7, “Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.” The scriptures found in Proverbs 3:5-7 could have a lasting impact upon not just one person, but could have a lasting impact on our entire country. It is time we stop complaining that God is silent while our Bibles are closed. I hope this article has stirred your heart in a way that would move you to want to bring honor and glory to God with your life. Feel free to drop me a line, da.slinkard@gmail. com.

Proverbs 3:6 states, “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” This is where we miss the boat, especially when it comes to our nation. We have non-believers who are doing everything they can to remove any remnants of God, and Christians are rolling over allowing it to happen. If Christians started today

Psalm 119:128 says, “Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.”

September 20 - October 3, 2019

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From the Alabama Veterans’ Museum

Meet Master At Arms (MA1) Mandy McCormick Leonard

by Sandra Thompson, Director, Alabama Veterans’ Museum It has been a long held misconception that we are the “Limestone County Veterans Museum” or even the “Athens Veterans Museum.” We are, in fact, the “Alabama Veterans Museum,” which means that we honor veterans not only from our own community but statewide and beyond. In this segment, we travel to Calhoun County, Alabama, to meet MA1 Mandy McCormick Leonard!

Mandy was born on July 2, 1997 at Ft. Oglethorpe, GA, and grew up in Alexandria, Alabama.

After graduating high school in 2015, she decided to join the Navy.

Mandy says she chose the Navy because she loves the honor and tradition that the Navy holds. “I love how diverse it is and how many locations we have worldwide.” She likes it so much, she re-enlisted just three years into her contract. Mandy says, “I always wanted to serve in the military; I feel as an American it was my way to give back to a country that I love. I love serving and I love the job that I do. I plan on making a career out of the Navy. I can’t see myself doing anything else.”

States Navy with security specialists who perform force protection, anti-terrorism, physical security, and law enforcement duties on land and at sea.

All training and experience can directly transfer to homeland security or other government and civilian law enforcement agencies. As a Master at Arms, Mandy’s duties have included Law Enforcement, Antiterrorism / Force Protection, Harbor Patrol, Small Arms Marksman Instructor to Crew, Weapons Instructor, and so many more.

Mandy’s first assignment was at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine, from 2015-2018.

She then went to Naval Support Facility Redzikowo, Poland in January 2019, she will continue to serve there until January Mandy McCormick Leonard, MA1

Mandy chose the Master at Arms career field because of all of the opportunities within the field.

The Master at Arms' rating is the Navy's military police force. Master-atArms ensures the Navy's regulations are enforced.

They provide the United

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2021.

world.”

Some of Mandy’s best memories include the training, the travel, and especially the people you meet, they are the most important. She has formed friendships and lasting bonds with people from all over the world, if not for the Navy she never would have met these individuals. Her closest friends are first generation Americans; one is from Ireland and the other family is from the Philippines. “Meeting people with different backgrounds and cultures really opens your mind, and it has made me better at connecting with those from places all over the

Mandy is married and her husband is active duty as well. She has an amazing stepson, Liam, who is 5 years old, and “right now he loves crystals, finding treasures, and going on ‘adventures.’” She comes from a huge Southern family that all still live in Alabama. She has 7 siblings ranging from 28 years old to 9 years old.

She has nine nieces and nephews and counting.

“Family events are never boring, I look forward to visiting them every chance I get.”

Thank You for your service!

September 20 - October 3, 2019

PlayAction Sports

Fall Sports Update

by Tim Lambert

Tune in for the PlayAction Sports Update, three times each weekday on 1080 AM WKAC. Visit us online at www.pasnetwork.net! email: playactionsports@hotmail.com

With a month of fall sports under their belts, local schools are finding themselves jockeying for various positions in their respective seasons.

Hopes are still high with most; others, though, are faced with looking for the moral victories. An update on the first third of fall season sports:

Football

Through the first four weeks of play, Ardmore is 2-2, defeating West Morgan (27-9) and Elkmont (22-8) along with losses to Scottsboro (42-17) and Arab (42-14). Athens is 2-1, dropping their first game to Gardendale 21-14, then bouncing back with wins over Hartselle (2819) and Decatur (27-14).

Clements has an undefeated season going, turning back Elkmont (50-6), Tanner (48-14) and Phil Campbell (4427). East Limestone has posted wins against West Limestone (26-15), but has come up short against Madison Academy (42-20) and Madison County (35-20).

James Clemens began with two losses (23-13 to Grayson, GA and 3837 to Clay-Chalkville), but came back with their second victory in a row against Bob Jones (3517) and their latest over Huntsville (49-0) in which they set a school record of 703 total yard of offense. West Limestone got their season started with a 21-2 decision against Tanner and most recently trounced Elkmont (75-0). Elkmont and Tanner are

both winless thus far.

Volleyball

stopped Colbert County, Colbert Heights, and R.A. Hubbard. West Limestone beat Decatur Heritage, Colbert Heights, and Tanner.

Ardmore won against Hackleburg, Austin, Deshler, Madison County, West Limestone, Westminster, Randolph, Cross country posted a seventh place. girls. and East Lawrence. Ath- James Clemens' girls The ABS JV boys and Swim and dive: ens Bible School topped won the large schools girls both came in third West Limestone, Boaz, division behind Kristen in 1A-4A. Sydney Per- The James Clemens Lauderdale County, Day's first place at the kins of Lindsay Lane women's team took first Madison County, Rus- Pepsi Challenge; the Jets and Seianna Marbut of place at the Bob Jones sellville, and St. Ber- finished fourth. Nicolas West Limestone placed Invitational while the nard. Athens High de- Ulrich of ABS came in first and second individ- Jets were second to the feated Cherokee, Susan 3rd in the small schools’ ually. At the Clements host Patriots.

Moore, DAR, Lindsay boys' race. At the Brooks Invitational, the Tan- Announcements: Lane, East Limestone, Invitational, West Limener varsity boys finished Fall archery registration Cullman, Elkmont, Aus- stone's Katie Serrato second while the Elkis going on through the tin and Randolph, in ad- was second in the girls' mont varsity girls came month of September for dition to giving Coach 1A-4A division. The in third. The West Limeages 8 and up at the AthApril Marsh her 600th Elkmont and ABS girls stone and ABS JV boys ens Recreation Center. win in a sweep of West finished sixth and eighth placed second and third.

Cost is $25. Youth basLimestone.

Clements respectively in the team Individually, Nic Ulrich ketball sign-ups are goclaimed victory against results. Nic Ulrich's secof ABS was the varsity ing on through October Oakwood Academy, ond place led the ABS boys’ runner-up, Mason 15 for ages 5 through Tanner, and East Law- boys to ninth place; the Brown of ABS came in 16. Fee is $60. Call 233rence. East Limestone Elkmont boys came in second in the JV boys, 8740 for more informaadded Clements, Tan- sixth. In the 5A-7A diviLindsay Lane's Sydney tion. ner, Lindsay Lane, Saint sion, the Ardmore girls Perkins was third in JV James, Rogers, Athens, were 5th while the Tigers West Point, Lauderdale County, Good Hope and Westminster to their win column. Elkmont was a winner over East Limestone Winston County, Brindlee Mountain, Meek, Austin, New Hope, Lindsay Lane, and East Lawrence. Lindsay Lane notched wins against Mars Hill, Susan Moore, Florence, Brooks, West Point, West Morgan, West Limestone, Whitesburg Christian, Oakwood Academy, Clements, East Limestone, Decatur, New East Limestone's Xavier Sigler carries the ball in their annual Hope, and Decatur rivalry game against West Limestone. (Photo credit: Dean Baucom) Heritage.

Tanner

September 20 - October 3, 2019

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Clean and Green

Whose Duck Will Be The Quickest Quacker?

Adopted Ducks Will Support Local Environmental Education

by Lynne Hart - Executive Coordinator - Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful It is rubber duck season in Athens, and KALB would love to see all of our ducks adopted for the Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby taking place on October 5.

All prizes have been generously provided, so every donation made to adopt ducks supports the work of Keep AthensLimestone Beautiful. Not sure what our organization does? I invite you to check out our website at www.KALBCares.com or the Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful Facebook page to learn more about the organization this event supports.

THE DERBY The derby will take place at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 5 at Big Spring

Memorial Park (The Duck Pond, of course!). Hundreds of specially-designed rubber ducks will be racing down the spillway, which is a fun thing to witness in itself!

For a $5 donation to KALB, one numbered racing duck will be entered into the race in your name.

Current Prize List

$1,000 American Leakless Co. GRAND PRIZE 8-Pack of Walt Disney World Park Hopper Passes 4-Pack of Walt Disney World Park Hopper Passes Round of Golf for 4 – Canebrake Golf Club $250 Osborne’s Jewelers Gift Card $100 Cash – American Leakless Co. $100 Cash - American Leakless Co. $100 Cash – Athens-Limestone Hospital $100 Cash – Limestone Drug Co. $100 Cash – Brody Jackson, State Farm Insurance Agent $100 Cash – Distinctive Landscaping, Inc. $100 Cash – Morell Engineering One Free Night Stay – Marriott Shoals Hotel and 3-Month Membership + Assessment – ALH Wellness Center $100 Gift Card – Hobb’s Jewelers $100 Gift Card – Eastside Pharmacy $100 Gift Card – Publix Valuable Gift Basket – The SK Salon Flex Tickets for 4 – Theatre Huntsville Flex Tickets for 2 – Theatre Huntsville Flex Tickets for 2 – Theatre Huntsville Monthly Ice Cream for a Year – MaggieMoo’s Ice Cream & Treatery 2 Admission Passes – Dollywood 4 Admission Passes – Birmingham Zoo 2 Admission Passes – Tennessee Aquarium $50 Cash – American Leakless Company LAZY DUCK AWARDS (last duck in each heat) – Dub’s Gift Cards

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Ducks will be divided and raced in 4 to 6 heats, depending on the total number of ducks adopted.

Rubber ducks will swim down the spillway trying to reach the duck trap to earn a place in the Championship Race in which every duck wins a prize!

The number of winners in each heat will be determined by the total number of prizes at the time of the derby.

All heat winners will be entered into the Championship Race and prizes won will be determined by the order the ducks come through the duck trap.

Winners will be announced as soon after that final race as possible.

Papa Murphy’s Quack Packs If you are into good deals, a Quack Pack of adopted ducks fits the bill, so to speak. For a $25 donation to KALB, 6 ducks (one free) will be entered into the derby in your name, and you will be guaranteed at least one duck in each heat, unless you request otherwise. You will also

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receive a coupon for 25% off your entire order from Papa Murphy’s Pizza with no expiration date!

How To Adopt Ducks Ducks can be adopted online at www.KALBCares. com. Click the EVENTS tab and Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby. Adoption forms are also available at the KALB office at 125 East St. in Athens. Duck adoptions will also be

available at the KALB tent during the Fiddlers Convention on October 3, 4, and 5 where you can adopt ducks until 1:00 p.m. on Saturday.

All of us at KALB truly appreciate the support we receive from our community.

We could not exist without our successful fundraisers, wonderful supporters, and awesome volunteers!

Become a Fan

(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com September 20 - October 3, 2019

Cooking with Anna

Choice, Chance, Change

by Anna Hamilton

“The 3 C’s in life: Choice, Chance, Change. You must make the Choice, to take the Chance, if you want anything in life to Change.” -- Zig Ziglar I’m not sure another quote has affected me as much this year as this one from Zig Ziglar. I had lived 38 years pretty much all exactly the same. I went through the routine. I dotted all my ‘i’s, I crossed all my ‘t’s. I didn’t truly examine the direction of my life. I played by the rules. I went to work, I went to church, I ate what I had been told was healthy food, and I restricted myself by calories and fat.

I tried diet after diet after diet. I had success, I lost 25 lbs. on a very popular diet plan but gained it all back, plus a lot more.

My husband and I both got married later than all of our other friends. God brought us together in our mid-thirties, and I am grateful every day for him. Since we were older, in medical terms, we decided to try to have children right away. I never dreamed we would face such difficulty. I know many of you have struggled with this same problem. We did everything right. We saw all the right doctors. We had to face the sobering reality that having children of our own naturally would not be an option. We both cried, prayed, and struggled to understand the reason why this was our reality. We would be great parents…but God has chosen for us to walk a different path. At the end of 2018, we both had to face the reality that it was not going to happen for us in the same way it had happened for so many of our friends and family.

I found myself at the start of 2019 heavier than I had ever been. I had fooled myself in to thinking I was happy. The reality was that I wasn’t happy at all. Every day was a struggle. I went to work, church, outings with my friends and family…I had gotten so good at hiding my true feelings and emotions. I was depressed and facing the harsh reality that if I didn’t do something, my health would continue to fail me. I went to a new doctor, and he did a full work-up and bloodwork. I was in really bad shape. Pre-diabetic, high blood pressure, high BMI, low iron, low vitamin D, low B-12; it was not a good place to be. After that visit, I cried and cried. I knew I had caused this; my current situation was my own fault. I had a choice to make: I could continue on the path I was on which would lead to nothing good, or I could make a decision to change.

The first thing I did was make a Choice. I had to make a conscience decision to take time for myself. I had to learn to place value in myself and make better choices for my physical health and my mental health. Making that choice seems like an easy thing to do. You need to do better, so you do better. Yall, it has not been all rainbows and roses. Making the choice to no longer put certain things in my body has taking 100% full commitment. I don’t always make the right choice, but I am trying.

Since I have made the choice, I have to take a Chance. I am taking a chance on

myself. So many times in the past I had failed myself. I hadn’t held myself in high enough regard in the past and let things slide. I have learned a valuable lesson since I began to invest in myself; if you don’t value yourself and take a chance, no one will take a chance on you either. It has been amazing the blessings that have fallen in my lap since I have truly taken a chance on myself. Others seem to value me more. This may simply be the fact that I am carrying myself differently these days. When you respect yourself, others notice that and begin to respect you as well. Feeling good about yourself is contagious to others. I never thought that just by eating healthier, the respect I felt for myself and that others felt towards me would change, but it has! It has been an amazing transformation.

I have made the choice, I am taking the chance, now I am seeing the Change in my life. I feel good! That’s the best way to sum it up. I didn’t know just how bad I felt until I discovered how good I could feel. I can see a future. I can see myself continuing to improve my quality of life. This change I am embarking on has changed the entire way my husband and I are approaching life. Two years ago, my husband underwent gastric bypass surgery. He has truly put the three C’s into practice. He made the choice to take the chance to change his life and now, I am proud to say that I am taking those steps as well. I can see the change, I can feel the change, I am embracing the change. Even though my change does not include surgery, my life has done a complete turnaround. I am grateful everyday for this journey. I am learning so much about myself, both emotionally and physically.

I’ve heard it said before that you can’t enjoy the mountains if you never walk in the valley. I have walked the valley, and I know that I will again in my life, but right now, I am on the mountain and embracing the new me with every turn. My husband and I are looking to the future with a renewed hope. God is leading us on this amazing journey to better health, which I believe will lead us to building our family. I covet your prayers and kind thoughts. My hope and prayer for all my readers is that they take that chance and make the change. I promise, you will not regret it!

The recipe this week is a comfort food classic you can feel good about eating.

There is almost nothing better than relaxing on the couch under a fluffy blanket, with a classic movie on the television and a big bowl of macaroni and cheese in your hand. Well, we all know that macaroni and cheese is not the wisest choice when you are trying to live a healthier life. Let me tell you, try this Cauliflower “Mac” and Cheese, and you will never miss the noodles, I promise you! It’s warm and cozy and truly a crowd pleaser. I’m sure you will love it as much as this carbloving girl does.

“Though the mountains be shaken, and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed, says the Lord who has compassion on you.” Isiah 54:10

Recipe #18 Cauliflower Mac and Cheese What You Need:

½ tsp mustard powder ½ tsp garlic powder ¼ tsp black pepper ½ tsp salt

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into small florets 1 cup heavy cream 1¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese 1/3 cup parmesan cheese

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees and butter a casserole dish.

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cauliflower pieces for about 5 minutes until just tender. Remove from heat and drain well.

Set aside In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm heavy cream until a slow simmer. Reduce heat to low and add 1 cup of cheddar, and the parmesan, mustard, garlic, and pepper. Stir well until smooth and

September 20 - October 3, 2019

cheese is melted. Taste for seasoning and add salt to taste.

Add cooked cauliflower to cheese mixture and stir to coat. Pour into the baking dish and top with reserved cheddar cheese.

Bake for 20 minutes or until top is golden brown and bubbly.

Feel free to add broccoli, bacon, onions, tomatoes, ham…you get the drift. Make this your own by pumping up the deliciousness!

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The Millennial Mind

Pity Doesn’t Pay The Piper

by Rosemary Dewar

Too often people conflate the act of doing good with the feeling of goodness when doing something.

Most times, doing the right thing and doing it properly will not always feel all that great. Often accomplishing a task with integrity, selflessness, and precision is personally strenuous to the point that it tests the soul. If your need to feel good begins to outweigh the actual goal for others to benefit from your contribution, your efforts will have a negative effect. An individual may believe that he or she is experiencing compassion, but they are actually feeling pity.

Gandhi is famously known for saying, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” The attempt to change the world by changing everyone else before yourself is a resignation of your responsibility. Furthermore, you lose the one thing you have the most authority over: yourself. This is true of any act of charity, benevolence, or care. Others cannot do what you do, and demanding of others when you cannot manage it yourself is emotionally selfish.

Oddly, our current culture seems to demand retribution from historical offenders. You cannot draw blood from a stone.

Tragedy and the state of lack prompt both pity and compassion, but the focus is what differentiates pity from compassion. Pity focuses on the individual witnessing someone else’s tragedy. Compassion, on the other hand, focuses on the individual being afflicted at the time.

In our current culture, it is becoming easier to conflate the two when national news affects the public in a visceral way. Communities don’t want to see calamities come to their door step. No one would.

Socially, our culture aims to absolve themselves of the shared ‘emotional’ guilt from not being able to prevent it from happening. That is an impossible task. You can’t change the past, nor rewrite history.

Both religious and secular societies have many failings when it comes to discerning the difference between pity and compas-

sion. They usually improperly evaluate those who need their assistance. What is given is not always what is needed. Faithful and dependable people are left out of favor, and when they ask for help they are resisted for the lack of a look of desperation. Platitudes are offered in place of the act of care. This is pure pity. A person is presented with someone who has a need, and instead of being moved to act, they pander. The human in front of you needs help, and you feel uncomfortable rather than eager.

The Judeo-Christian worldview asks, “What man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent?” Giving is important,

but what you give and how you give it is just as important. Compassion is meant to inspire the individual feeling it to act upon it, and the Bible states that Christ was moved with compassion. Pity is so unpleasant that someone would give almost anything just to not feel it anymore. The act of giving becomes penance for guilt, accomplishing practically nothing of value.

This ends up being no different than social programs that don’t actually solve what may be causing the deficit. Educational grants are not helping young students receive vocational skills. Abortion is not helping women plan for motherhood. Demographic quotas are not assisting businesses in growth.

Government assisted

healthcare is not innovating treatments, rewarding doctors, and improving coverage. Tax write-offs are not incentivizing people to get married and have children.

You don’t have to change the whole world. You only have to change your world. Sigmund Freud was quite twisted about most things, yet he was right when he stated that, “Most people do not really want freedom, because freedom involves responsibility, and most people are frightened of responsibility.”

Pity will not fill the void, nor find a solution. Either work what is rightfully yours with honor, or waste your time making yourself feel better by bringing “relief” that is anything but.

When you live in the past, you make it impossible to affect your present in order to make sure your future changes. Mahatma

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September 20 - October 3, 2019

Cover Story

Toodlebugs: Where Quality And Families Are The Focus

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

It was a treasure put together for Jeanette Blackwood by her mother when Jeanette was a little girl. As captivating as it is, it really only inspires shoppers to look through every nook and cranny of the inviting children’s shop that is located in a recently restored historical building at 107 Market Street East in Athens. Jeanette works with owner Melissa Anderson as well as Melissa’s mom, Maxine Sides, and Linda Rodgers. Together they are a force that loves every square inch of the building, all that is in it, and most importantly, the families that walk through the door.

I first interviewed Melissa in 2010 when the business was a gift shop called The Myrtle Tree, and greatly appreciated her heart for children and families. There came a time when Melissa decided she wanted to focus on children’s clothing and accessories, and Toodlebugs was born. “Actually, it was my son Will who named the store. He was about six years old at the time, and ‘Toodlebugs’ was what I called him for a nickname. He said, “Mama, we need to call it ‘Toodlebugs,’” and they have ever since.

Melissa loves the building and told me, “It is my dream shop. I wanted a historical building with the old brick, a cement floor, and the feeling of ‘Mayberry.’ I love the Square -- seeing families walking, talking, and shopping together…maybe ending up at Kreme Delight when they are finished.”

She has filled the place with high quality clothing, toys, and accessories which are reasonably priced.

Another thing that is extremely important to Melissa is giving back to the community, and several of her favorite clothing lines have give-back programs where a percentage of the sales go to various nonprofits. For example, Mud Pie donates to the March of Dimes, Charlie’s Project supports autistic and Downs’ kids, and over the years, Toodlebugs has contributed to several local projects. “We not only sell stuff, but we give to kids.

A few years ago, we were able to get some I-Pads for the autistic class in Ardmore,” said Melissa.

Additionally, Toodlebugs has donated 100 books to the Athens Elementary School library, sponsored work for Kids to Love (which works to meet needs of kids in the foster care system,) has given auction items for Sacred Selections (a faith-based group which helps offset the costs of adoption,) sponsored a beauty pageant for Eli Williams Cure for Childhood Cancer Foundation (where they raised approximately $3,000), and this season they are focused on helping with the Full Tummy Project. The Full Tummy Project is one where kids who are at-risk for hunger are given

Jeanette Blackwood food to take home on Fridays when they end their school week. “We also collected Easter Baskets for 30 under-privileged kids,” Melissa told me.

Years ago, Melissa had a goal of becoming a manager for the Alabama Department of Labor, and she has met it. She has been with them for 21 years, but eventually she plans to finish her career there and make Toodlebugs the home of her fulltime career. She has a biological son who is triumphing over A.D.H.D., and a daughter that was part of the foster care system whom the Andersons hope to adopt. Husband Gary is a minister at Salem Church of Christ and has always been a strong supporter of Melissa’s work. Toodlebugs was given the Readers’ Choice Award in 2017 as Best Children’s Store,

and back in the Myrtle Tree days, was voted Small Business of the Year in Ardmore.

I asked Melissa what was new this season, and she talked about a line called ML Kids, which come in separates. They are high quality, trendy, reasonably priced, and are made to mix and match, which helps to stretch a backto-school budget and still look adorable.”Three outfits become nine outfits,” said Melissa. Toodlebugs’ most popular baby line is Kissy Kissy; one of their best-selling shoe lines is L’Amour, and Ruffle Butts (for girls) as well as Rugged Butts (for boys) are also hot items. Their heirloom line is handmade and called Sarah Louise. As a matter of fact, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis of England have been seen

several times in clothing by Sarah Louise. The smocking, embroidery, hemming, and attention to detail is a throwback to beautifully crafted children’s clothing of yesteryear.

“We try to strike a balance between trendy and traditional,” said Melissa, and as far as toys are concerned, she is a long-term Melissa and Doug Fan. She finished our time by letting me sample some skin lotion for kids that is called Noodle and Boo. “It has a soft feel and fragrance,” she said, “and all of us here in the shop use the Elasticity oil on our own faces.”

Toodlebugs also has a baby registry that is one of the most important services they offer, and they love to serve children, families, parents, grandparents, and people who are looking for “just the right gift.” Come see them today as a customer, and leave as a friend. Be sure to be on the lookout for plans later this fall to celebrate their anniversary!

Toodlebugs

All dressed up for Fall

September 20 - October 3, 2019

The Anderson Family Tree

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Jeanette's childhood dollhouse

107 Market Street East, Athens, AL 35611 256-800-1114 Hours: Tue 10-5, Wed 10-3, Thur-Friday 10-5, Sat 10-2 Closed Sun and Mon Facebook: Toodlebugs Page 15

Health and Fitness

Why Not Swim Upstream

by Nick Thomas, owner of Prime Performance Training, and Certified Sports Nutritionist I think salmon maybe my favorite fish for many reasons, but right out of the gate I love that they go against the flow! Since the best nutrition or fitness choices may not always be the popular or easy ones, I am familiar with the feeling of “swimming upstream.” However, for now, let’s focus on how packed this fish is with health benefits!

Salmon is one of the most nutritious fish/proteins you can eat. Wild salmon has an excellent omega-3 fatty acid content. By keeping a good amount of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet, you reduce inflammation. This is a huge benefit because inflammation is the base of many health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, some types of cancers, and arthritis. Some research even shows that omega-3 fatty acids have the potential to help slow cognitive problems, such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Salmon also has virtually zero carbohydrates making it perfect for those with diabetes. It contains tryptophan, the precursor to serotonin, which helps combat depression. This, combined with being an excellent source of vitamin D, makes it a natural

Page 16

mood booster, along with aiding in bone health.

When it comes to actually picking out your salmon at the store, there are few things you want to keep in mind. First, don’t worry; salmon can be consumed without fear of excess contaminants, such as mercury which can be a concern with other seafood, meaning you can eat it multiple times a week without hesitation. Wild salmon is usually best, but some farm-raised is not a totally bad thing. There is such a wide range of ways to purchase and prepare salmon it helps keep variety in your diet while still using this same nutrient rich fish. Salmon can be purchased fresh, frozen, smoked, or canned. There are also several varieties of salmon which you can try, including king, Atlantic, sockeye, coho, pink and chum. I find the biggest difference to be what texture you prefer, which can be a choice that varies based on how you plan to prepare and cook it.

this in mind when seasoning it. Using olive oil and staying clear of heavy, creamy sauces is best.

Think of fresh herbs, spices, and lemons as great options to add and switch up flavor, maybe even including some fresh garlic or Dijon mustard and honey on occasion. The fattiness of the salmon is

in your favor when cooking it; however, be careful not to overcook it. Simply cook it until it is flakey and changes to an opaque light pink throughout.

This should keep it moist and very tasty. Pair it with some fresh, cooked green veggies and brown rice or quinoa, and you have an amazing healthy meal.

And here’s a good tip, cook a bit extra and save it for lunch or dinner another night because salmon reheats very well.

For more information regarding a personalized general or sports nutrition plan contact me at Prime Performance 423-8050870.

Salmon is a sturdy fish which holds up to many cooking styles and seasonings. It can easily be grilled, baked, poached, broiled, or pan seared.

Since we are discussing health benefits, let’s keep

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September 20 - October 3, 2019

Cover Story

The 53rd Annual Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers’ Convention Is Almost Here!

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

continued from page 1

year is what has come to be known as “The Granddaddy of Midsouth Fiddlers’ Conventions,” or “Fiddlers’” for short. It is a time when hundreds of old-timey musicians, buck dancers, artisans of all kinds, and vendors set up camp on the Athens State University campus. Then, thousands of people come to see and hear them. In addition, spontaneous groups of musicians spring up everywhere and make beautiful music with total strangers.

The young honor the old, the seasoned showcase the young bloods, and for three days non-stop, there is pickin’, grinnin’, singin’, gift shoppin’, eatin’, and fun.

Space is made each year for RVs to camp, but there are no electrical hookups or waste disposal services. Some folks park their RVs and stay through Grease Festival all the way until Storytelling Festival. For them, each year, Athens is the place to be to say or sing, “It’s Fall, Y’all!”

I spoke with Chris Latham, the Athens State University Director of Marketing and Public Relations, and the thing about which he is the most excited this year is

Bradley Walker

that the “talent has come full circle.” By that he means that there are now kids who grew up competing that have come of age and are making their mark on the old-time music world. Another thing is that Athenian Bradley Walker is going to be performing, and the legendary 15-time Grammy Award winning Ricky Skaggs with his band Kentucky Thunder is returning. Huntsville International Airport is the Presenting Sponsor, and the Alabama Farmers Cooperative and Aetos Systems are the Stage Sponsors. This year there will be $18,225 in prize money, a $1,200 cash prize for the Top Fiddler: Alabama State Fiddle Champion, which is a legislative distinction that was passed by way of resolution in 2013 by our lawmakers. The resolution also recognizes the top winners in 14 competitive

September 20 - October 3, 2019

categories as Alabama State Champions.

Because Fiddlers was begun in 1967 with the purpose of keeping old-timey music alive in the Age of Aquarius and acid rock, one of its most important features is the opportunity for young fiddlers, banjo players, guitarists, and mandolin players to compete. There is a Beginner Musician category and a Junior Fiddler competition, both of which sees incredibly talented kids cross the stage each year. More information about the competition categories is available on the festival website, which is www.tvotfc.org.

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Something that began earlier this year is the Fiddlers Concert Series, funded in part by the Livingston Concert/ Lecture Series, that provided old-timey concerts so bluegrass lovers can hear live music every few months leading up to the Convention. In just a few days, on September 26, the two-time Grammy Award winning Nashville Bluegrass Band is going to perform in McCandless Hall, and tickets are on sale. Then, on Tuesday, October 1, Tony Robertson of Iron Horse and Gibson Master Luthier Dave Harvey will present a Gibson Acoustical Instrument Workshop, also in

McCandless. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online at www.tvotfc.org.

Once again on Thursday, there will be a free concert which is open to the public and begins at 7 p.m. This year’s performance will take place on the Alabama Farmers Cooperative Main Stage, and Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper will be making the music. Friday at 4 p.m. and at 6 p.m., Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder will be performing, and on Saturday, our very own Bradley Walker and the Lonesome River Band will be performing at 6 p.m.

Gates open at 8 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, and Thursday’s admission is free. A pass for Friday only is $15, and Saturday only is $15. A weekend pass is $20, children under 12 are admitted free of charge, and when you consider what it costs to hear music of this quality anywhere else, you can afford to bring your whole tribe!

There are a few housekeeping things to remember that will make the weekend a joy for the thousands who will be there. Please police your trash, and know that there will be ample trash barrels. Please, no pets are allowed except for certified service dogs. If it rains, the festival will go on as planned with a covered stage in front of Founders Hall. Tickets are available at the gate or online at www.tvotfc.org.

So, get out your favorite lawn chair, and get yourself to Athens State University on October 3-5 for the 53rd Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention, where you won’t be able to stop pickin’, grinnin’, or both. See you there, rain or shine!

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Learning As A Lifestyle

Coming Soon!

by Wanda Campbell

Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 New programs and familiar favorites are available this fall at the Athens State Center for Lifelong Learning. Check out our website – www.athens. edu/CLL or give us a call at 256-233-8260.

Friday Night Movies You may sometimes wonder why a scene from a movie stays with you long after the credits roll, yet in other cases, you can’t recall if you’ve ever seen the movie. Thinking about that memorable moment, what made that impression? Was it particularly well-acted?

The dramatic lighting?

The emotion of the music? The tension that built up? The ability to relate to the scene? A powerful choice of words? Join us for movie night as we discuss what impacts us in the movies. Defining Genre – Good Will Hunting; Special Effects of the 20th Century – The Dark Knight; Scoring the Story – Out of Africa. $5/person per movie

basics of creating pottery on the potter’s wheel. You will learn how to center the clay on the wheel and make cylinders and bowls.

No prior experience necessary, but come ready to make a mess! Register early as class size is limited. All supplies are provided. $89/person - 5 Sessions

learning, laughing, talking about recipes, and decorating the perfectly beautiful cookie. This is a very hands-on, detail-oriented class; so come join us for an incredible cookie transformation! All supplies provided. $49/person - 1 Session

Cookie Decorating for Beginners

This class will use advanced skills to build a Simple Candlestick that is perfect for a gift or for your own home. Students will learn basic tong forging, and forging precise parts to fit and work together. Students need to bring leather gloves to class. All supplies are provided. Prerequisite: A Basic or Beginning Blacksmith class. $109 - 1 Ses-

Just in time for Halloween, this is a true beginner’s class on cookie decorating! Our instructor does a fabulous job in teaching students how to become “cookie artists” with sugar cookies, royal icing, and amazingly simple decorating techniques.

Bring a friend and spend a couple of hours with us

Advanced Blacksmith – Simple Candlestick

sion Lunch and Learn: The Great Debate – Advocates and Opponents of the American Constitution This course will not only point out the significance of the historical debate that

took place while writing the constitution, it will highlight, in retrospect, the key strengths and weaknesses of each side of the debate. Bring your lunch and join us for this interesting discussion of the Separations of Powers and the Bill of Rights.

FREE - 4 Sessions

Painting for Beginners This class will guide the student step-through-step to complete three paintings using acrylic paints.

Students will learn about strokes, mixing paints, balance, and more. The fourth painting will be a free-style painting of the student’s choice. All supplies are provided. $89/ person - 4 sessions Pottery: An Introduction to Wheel Throwing Students will learn the

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September 20 - October 3, 2019

The View From The Bridge

Living Your Best You!

by Jackie Warner

Career Development Facilitator “Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters Today is all about trends, fashion, and the latest looks on celebrity television. Yes, I like to shop just like most people do, but all those items are just our cover up. I was recently in a leadership meeting at work, and the question was asked “How do you want your leadership team to value what you bring to the table?” I thought about my answer and then shared with the group, “I desire my leadership team to authentically see me. As a leader, it is imperative to know who you have on the team and really get to know who they are so you tap into the inner core of what makes them an asset, and then allow them to thrive in that space.” In my conversation with you this month, I ask you to think about how you show up to your life.

Are you just existing or are you living your best you?

I am reminded of words from Ruth Simons’ ministry, “Given a choice, I’d rather go to a faraway country than clean out my own pantry.

I’d rather dig wells for other people, seeing

despair. Heaven cries out to us when we are hurting -- “This way through” not “This way out”! By nature, our flesh looks for the exit sign instead of the entrance sign.

Set your heart and your eyes on Jesus. Without proper focus, we will never hit our target.

Choose Faith instead of Fear! Jesus is your guide to finding and living your best you! Wishing you the best always.

Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional progress and visible fruit, than work through math problems again with my child. Truth be told, sometimes I esteem the value of ministry to others over the oftenunseen ministry within my own home.”

land or culture.” Yes, the mission starts at home with self and family!

When we recognize and tackle the work there, it provides real strength for the war out there.

God tells us in Jeremiah 31:25 that He satisfies the one who is weary and refreshes the faint.

He is faithful to bring us through, to lift us up and restore hope and remove

Jackie Warner, Community Outreach Specialist Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com

Check out upcoming events: http://thebridge-us.yolasite. com/

Her words are real and true. Often we step out of our own house and inner being for the sake of helping and doing for others, but have truly forgotten we will never get where we need to be without first “recognizing that our home is a mission field -- equal to a remote

September 20 - October 3, 2019

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September 20 - October 3, 2019

Mental Health Minute

Healthy Aging

by Lisa Philippart, Licensed Professional Counselor

“Your power to choose the direction of your life allows you to reinvent yourself, to change your future, and to powerfully influence the rest of creation.”

- Stephen Covey My last few articles have been quite “heavy” and clinical, so I decided I needed to lighten things up a bit! September is Healthy Aging Month, an annual health observance designed to focus attention on the positive aspects of growing older. (And yes, there are some!) Healthy Aging Month was started

by Carolyn Worthington, who is the editor and publisher of Healthy Aging Magazine. Healthy Aging Month was established to provide inspiration and helpful ideas for adults over 50 to improve their physical, mental, social, and financial well-being.

My hope is that as “mature” adults, you can use September to motivate you to take stock of where you have been, what you would really like to do, and then actually follow through and do it! You don’t have to pick something related to work or school. And you don’t have to nix the idea of entrepreneurship or starting your own business just because you are no

longer a spring chicken!

Maybe you aren’t at your peak physically, but that doesn’t’ mean you can’t do something wildly different from anything you’ve ever done before.

Only you are stopping that from happening. To get started on the reinvention process, let’s look at some fun ideas to help you to age in a healthy way.

1. Turn on your creative side. In my office at Athens State, I have an acrylic painting of tulips that I created. I use it to share with students the fact that I was told in school that I had NO artistic abilities. (Ouch!) And worse yet, I believed it. A few years ago, I tried one of those painting studios where you drink wine and someone guides you through the painting process. (The wine helped!)

And while I still struggle with my ability to draw,

September 20 - October 3, 2019

this experience opened the door to another medium that I enjoy and find I can do well -- photography. You may also want to explore other art forms, such as music or performance.

2. Take care of your physical health. First, take time this month to set up your annual physical and other health screenings.

And then go to the appointments! Next, walk.

And walk like a vibrant, healthy person. Make the effort to take big strides and hold your head up.

Start walking not only for your health but to visit with your neighbors.

I walk our dogs every morning and evening and continue to be amazed at how they have become conversation starters, and are definitely more popular than I am!

3. Go to your dentist regularly. Fear of dental work is no longer an excuse,

because numbing and sedation have become common practices. (Trust me, I have had dental problems all my life, so I know well the feeling of dread.) Your teeth are just as important to your good health as the rest of your body. And speaking of teeth, how is your smile?

As you might imagine, people who smile more often are happier. Your smile is the first thing people notice, and good oral health is the pathway to overall wellbeing.

4. Be positive. Being positive in your conversations, actions, and interactions everyday has a huge impact on your mental, emotional, and spiritual health. If you are a complainer, start catching yourself and change the topic to something positive. Do you have negative friends who grumble constantly and talk doom and gloom? As

harsh as this may sound, try to distance yourself from those who don’t have a positive outlook on life. You know the effect they have on you… they depress you, and they will keep you from moving forward. Positive people tend to be happy, energetic, and encouraging, and we all need to be around those people. And better yet, be one of them!

5. And finally, I am going to share with you my word for the year: Connections.

My goal this year was to improve and increase my connections, both by understanding and connecting with inner self and by surrounding myself with people who share my vision and purpose. If you find yourself feeling lonely and complaining about having no friends or family, do something about it right now. Make contacts by volunteering, taking a class, or inviting someone to meet for lunch or coffee. Join an organization whose members share your interests. I encourage you to reach out to someone once a week every week.

Let’s get started creating a better you!

Lisa Philippart is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who divides her time between her own private practice in Huntsville and providing personal counseling services at Athens State University.

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Medical Point

Expert Tips For A Better Night's Sleep courtesy BrandPoint content (BPT) - When was the last time you had a good night's sleep?

For many, sleep doesn't come easy. Up to 70 million Americans suffer from sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, narcolepsy and restless legs syndrome. Nights are spent staring at the walls as insomnia takes control, or frequently waking from snoring or gasping for air due to untreated obstructive sleep apnea. Fortunately, achieving the recommended seven hours of healthy sleep and managing a sleep disorder is possible with help.

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"Sleep should be a restorative experience, but sleep disorders are notorious for robbing us of that nightly pleasure," said Patti Van Landingham, chair of the American Alliance for Healthy Sleep (AAHS). "Whether recently diagnosed with a sleep disorder, such as obstructive sleep apnea, or just noticing warning signs, such as snoring, choking during sleep or fatigue and daytime sleepiness, people need to seek support so that they can experience the joy of sleep again."

However, where do you start and what resources are available?

The AAHS, a patientfocused membership

organization made up of health care providers and patients with sleep disorders, shares the following three tips to manage your sleep better: Talk to your doctor As a society, we often deprioritize sleep issues despite a patient's need to address a lack of sleep.

Many patients do not proactively talk to their primary care physician about their sleep during routine exams, mainly due to a perceived high cost of treatment. By asking the right questions or finding an accredited sleep center for testing and consultation, you're one step closer to a good night's sleep. A sleep physician can help

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outline a treatment strategy that can last a lifetime, helping you take back control and reduce the cycle of the frustration of losing valuable sleep.

Connect with others Another way to improve quality of life if you suffer from a sleep disorder is to identify a one-onone peer support group.

Mentorship provides long-term support to patients who are newly diagnosed by connecting them to patients who have experience managing their sleep disorders.

Patient mentor programs, such as the one offered by the AAHS, allow experienced patients to share their stories and

use their firsthand experience to help guide others. For example, a newly diagnosed narcolepsy or sleep apnea patient is connected with an individual who was diagnosed with the same disorder at least two years prior and is managing his or her sleep disorder with an evidence-based treatment option. The result is a support system that offers encouragement and a new perspective on sleep at a peer level.

Stay up to date - It's an exciting time in the sleep field, and advancements are on the horizon. From new sleep monitoring technology and more comfortable positive airway pressure machines, researchers continue to focus on new ways to provide high-quality patient-centered care.

By joining together, patients and their family members can learn more about healthy sleep, access exclusive news affecting the sleep community and ultimately be a part of a collaborative discussion that furthers the success of the sleep disorders community.

Together you can advocate for increased and improved care for patients and rally for more significant research funding to improve the understanding and treatment of sleep disorders. To learn more about improving your life through healthy sleep, visit www.sleepallies. org.

September 20 - October 3, 2019

www.JuicePlus.com

Mondays at 10am 1080 AM WKAC September 20 - October 3, 2019

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Horse Whispering

Between Horse And Human

by Deb Kitchenmaster What do you think it takes to understand and help a horse? For starters you learn to recognize and appreciate the uniqueness of each animal. When a human approaches an animal with the grace of acceptance and the assurance of the true worth of the animal, the animal knows that. It’s all about energy, intention, and attitude. These exchanges between human and horse are recognizable to observers as communication and understanding flow from human to horse and horse to human. It really is a masterpiece -- challenging to explain. But it is REAL. More times than not, it is easier for man to communicate with the horses than it is for him to communicate his thoughts and feelings about the horses with the humans.

Sometimes it is hard to find the words.

As you continue being

with your horse, your ability to recognize and meet your horse’s needs grows.

And along with that, your awareness of how much there is to learn. Look to other horse people for advice and encouragement so you can enjoy your horse more and you can pass it along when someone comes to you for such. You see, your horse is teaching you all the time. When you learn something from a horse and someone asks you what book you got that from, you usually (unless you did get that from a book) have a pause and respond that you don’t guess you read that from a book, but your horse taught you that. Brace yourself; faces have some of the funniest expressions. Communication between horse and human is not something that can be handed to someone.

It has to be learned. It has to come from the inside of a person and the inside of

a horse.

Horses naturally have tremendous faith in the human being. It is their natural instinct of self-preservation that the person needs to understand in order to gain the confidence of the horse. What beauty, absolute breathtaking, when a person can present himself or herself in a way

that is understandable to the horse. The horse then tells you what is going on within himself. When a human thinks of a horse AS A HORSE, connection begins. Now this may seem silly to some, but seriously, some people think of horses as dogs or humans. Did you know that? If this one remark gets your attention

enough to do some personal inventory, this writing has been worth your time. When you see a horse as a horse, you are seeing what he is and his potential.

time -- “Do you feel that?”

What she was referring to is the FEEL that comes when timing and balance synchronize.

It’s awesome. There actually is a NOW moment when you and your horse are in that time/balance zone. This is what you hope to build on and go forward with.

The older I get, it seems to me, more and more people tend to have so little feel of the whole horse. A horse knows when a fly lands on his back! Do we not think the horse feels our hands, feet, heels, butt, back, shoulders, spine, fingers, wrists, neck, and our eyes? They do. What about us? Do we FEEL their shoulders, back, hips, legs, neck, head, and tail?

This is what BETWEEN HORSE AND HUMAN is all about; FEEL THE WHOLE HORSE. To tie this up, the human needs to recognize the horse’s need for self-preservation in Mind, Body and, the third factor, Spirit. The person’s approach can assure the horse that he can have his self-preservation and still respond to what the person is asking him to do. This recognition is going to be a useful thing to both the human and the horse.

In the past I have written about EMOTIONS. This month I want to touch Until we meet again. Hapbase with you on FEELpy trails.

ING. Horses are amazing Your NEIGHbor, therapists when it comes Deb Kitchenmaster to both these arenas of Corral Connections life. I was taking English riding lessons and my in256-426-7947 structor would ask me this Animal B.E.S.T. practitioner one question from time to horsinaround188@gmail.com

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