September 4 - 17, 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 Homeland Trading Company: Putting A Good Thing Out There... In 2012, during the holidays, John and Amanda McGrew took on what has become known as... Page 5
Tourism
Olympian Picabo Street Coming To Huntsville Ski Club By Ali Elizabeth Turner The Huntsville Ski Club is pleased to announce that multiple Olympic medal winner and Alabama resident, Picabo Street, is coming to speak at the Club meeting to be held on September 16th. The meeting is open to the public, and will be held at the Continued on pages 15
Fall In North Alabama Is Festival Season... With the weather starting to cool off and the days getting shorter, that is a sure sign... Page 10
Jerry’s Journal Remembering Dan Williams... Shortly before my good friend, State Representative and former Athens Mayor, Dan Williams passed away, I visited him at... Page 19
September 4 - September 17, 2015
Michael Clem of ClemTech Services
The Dance Academy: Drawing Forth The Best In Dancers For 29 Years By Ali Elizabeth Turner
Victoria Pace began studying dance at the age of 6, and had the great blessing of growing up in a supportive Southern home Continued on page 17
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Publisher’s Point
Gratitude Grenades
Publisher / Editor Ali Turner
Sales
Deborah Huff
Graphic Design
Jonathan Hamilton
Web Design Teddy Wolcott
Delivery
Hunter Williams
Contributing Writers Wanda Campbell Janet Hunt Rachel Clark, RN, BSN Joel Allen Sandra Thompson Paul Foreman Lynne Hart Shelley Underhill Jerry Barksdale Teresa Todd
Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 6 Foreman’s Forum . . . . . . . 8 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . 10 Cooking With Shelley . . . . 11 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 From The Vets Museum . . 13 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 14 Cover Stories . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . 18 Jerry’s Journal . . . . . . . 19
A little over 15 years ago, there was a school of psychological thought born that was called “Positivity Psychology,” and its most famous proponents were part of the teaching staff at the University of Pennsylvania. Now, when I say, “positivity psychology,” I am not talking about anything you’d find in a greeting card aisle, or on a sappy motivational calendar. This stuff was practical, not particularly emotional, and the result of years of research, using real people with real problems. Those studied had found a way to deal with difficulty in a way that is markedly different from most folks, and the good news is, it is a skill that everyone can learn. The bad news is, because you were not designed by your Maker to be a grump, indulging your negative self has been really hard on your grey matter. Learning a new way, or “growing a new brain,” is some of the hardest work you’ll ever do. However, it is also some of the most rewarding. My first “slap in the face” back then was encountering a book written by one of the U Penn profs by the name of Dr. Martin Seligman, and his book was entitled Learned Optimism. I went skipping through the test, expecting to pass with flying colors and be designated as a positive person. I had to eat a lot of humble pie when I discovered that I was a secret grump, with a whole lot of victimization in my thinking. My second slap was learning of the work of Dr. Paul Pearsall, who had done some fascinating work with Holocaust
Dog Barker . . . . . . . . . . 20 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 21 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22
September 4 - September 17, 2015
survivors, and found several things. First, the endorphins or “feel good” chemicals in the brain were highly addictive in a good way. By contrast, the chemicals produced by being sour were similar to anesthesia, which is also horribly addictive. Pearsall’s patients had found a way to reframe what had happened to them, bathed their brain and
even mainstream medical folks have known for a long time: people who proactively live in an intentional “attitude of gratitude” are just better off; physically, mentally, emotionally, relationally, and spiritually. Ancient wisdom from Proverbs says it best: “A merry heart does good like a medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.” However,
your kids and you had an especially satisfying conversation. You tell yourself, “I needed that, and boy, did he/she make my day! I am so blessed to have him/her in my life.” This intensifies the impact, and it is as simple as doing something we all do secretly anyway, and that is, talk to ourselves! Yes, it is ok to just think it, but saying it out loud is even better, even
heart literally in the chemical of forgiveness, and found that in spite of what they had been through, they could live in a basic state of joy. In addition, it was clinically determined that not one was in a state of denial or repressed memory. They had just worked really hard, followed Biblical principles, and were reaping the benefits.
the study went on to say that there was something else that had, in a way, been missed by the “positivity people,” and that was “reflexive gratitude.”
if nobody is there in the room with you. Either way, you are lobbing “grenades of gratitude,” with the result being an explosion that is good for everyone except the dark side.
Recently I came across another study, (a long term one), that was conducted simultaneously at the University of California, and on the other coast at the University of Miami, and it corroborated what
Many people are determined to send their gratitude out, either vertically or horizontally. Most of us understand the spiritual power of praise, as well as saying thank you to the people around us. But did you know there is an extra layer of effect when, in the process of expressing gratitude, you tell yourself what the impact has had? Let me give you an example: You get off the phone with
Try it, and tell me what you think. And if you catch me being sour, I give you permission to bust me!
Ali Elizabeth Turner Athens Now Information & Inspiration 256-468-9425 ali@athensnowal.com Website: www.athensnowal.com
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All Things Soldier
Troops To Teachers - Proud To Serve Again by Ali Elizabeth Turner
When I was in Iraq, I often had the chance to watch AFN, Armed Forces Network, and became aware of wonderful programs that were available to soldiers that had a direct impact on civilians. One of my favorites was the Troops to Teachers program, an educational track that was specifically designed to empower members of our
military who had finished their contracts or careers to finishing their degrees in education, and transitioning to the fight for our kids’ freedom and future by becoming their teachers. The subtitle for the program was, “Proud to serve again.” I can think of fewer things that could be more positive in the classroom than
having a soldier protecting their minds and bodies. I can think of few things that would make schools safer than having someone who would run into the fray as did the soldiers in France when they foiled a terrorist attack. And, while I come from a long line of teachers, both male and female, there is one thing that male soldiers can do in particu-
Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)
$7
September 15th
11am - 1pm and 5pm-7pm
17915 W Elm St • Athens, Alabama • 256-232-0029 Page 4
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lar, and that is, even if only in a small way, to satisfy what can only be described as “daddy hunger.” Here in the Southeast, the Troops to Teachers movement is alive and well. According to an article in USA Today in 2013, “… school administrators are increasingly finding that many former service members make good teachers
— and they’re pushing to bring veterans into the mainstream of teacher recruitment, with hopes that their grit and perseverance can both improve student performance and lower teacher turnover rates. Nationally, about 30% of new teachers leave the profession within five years.” That turnover rate is something that teachers who were troops can greatly reduce, if for no other reason than they know how to keep a commitment even when leadership is poor, circumstances are difficult, supplies are limited, and the future is uncertain. Teachers who possess what is known as “command presence” have the ability to inspire their students to sit up straighter just by walking in the room.
One soldier said, “My days as an enlisted U.S. Army soldier and alter working for the U.S. Military as a counselor and advisor taught me the value of leadership. Leadership, in my mind, is without a doubt the most important attribute an individual can have when leading a squad platoon, flight, division or classroom toward an ob-
jective.”
The beauty is, soldiers who have experienced poor leadership can choose to become the leaders in the classroom that perhaps they never had. They can help kids avoid all kinds of high risk behavior, because they have faced down the worst possible gangs, thugs, and injustices, and they understand that, at the end of the day, you fight for the man on your right, you fight for the man on your left, and you fight for the victory of your kids in the classroom.
For more information on the specific Troops to Teachers program here in Alabama, go to troopstoteachers.net/ States/Alabama.aspx, or contact Troops to Teachers recruiter Bill Kirkland at 1-800-745-0709.
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Special Feature
Homeland Trading Company: Putting A Good Thing Out There by Ali Elizabeth Turner In 2012, during the holidays, John and Amanda McGrew took on what has become known as the Made In America Christmas Challenge. The purpose of the challenge was to encourage gift givers to strengthen the American economy by buying or making gifts with the guarantee that all materials were made right here in the U S of A. The McGrews also had a baby girl, and they were understandably wanting to make sure that her toys were guaranteed to be lead free. They succeeded in their Christmas quest, and started to “shop American” for themselves the rest of the year. Amanda asked John, “If there was a store like that, wouldn’t it be great?” John’s response was, “Why don’t we do it?” Then came the “Look, either we are going to do this, or shut up about it” phase of their entrepreneurial journey, and they decided to “make the leap,” as Amanda says. The result was Homeland Trading Company, located on Hwy 31 in the strip mall with the clock tower near CVS in Athens, and the address is 1207 East Forrest, Athens, AL 35613. Their tag line is: All items proudly made in the USA, and they aren’t kidding! Both John and Amanda have other jobs which involve operating equipment and/or supervising in the construction based fields, and they have been able to “spell” each other at the store, that is, hold down the store while the other one is “bringing home the bacon.” John also studied architecture at Auburn, and both of them have a number of creative interests they pursue in their “spare time.” They have their priorities straight: all day Monday is family day. As is often the case with local start up businesses, extended family is on hand to help, and Amanda says her sister, Joanna Whitehead, “helps with everything and is wonderful!”
The target market at Homeland Trading is the blue collar worker, but there is American made stuff for all kinds of folks. I laughed out loud when I saw a 100% cotton T shirt with an old VW bus on it, very close to the one I had almost 45 years ago. Orange is not technically “my color,” and my VW Bus days are long gone, but I am none the less tempted to buy and wear one! One of John’s long term goals is to start a textile company that would bear the same name as the store, and bring the textile industry back
The sizes range from small to women’s 6X, and up to size 62 in men’s. Right now there is a 60% off sale for summer items, and there are some prices which are truly “slashed.” There is a small selection of toys, and they are exploring what people are looking for and looking to expand in time for the holidays. Some of my favorites were the “Brio-like” wooden toys that are very similar to ones I played with as a little girl. There is also men’s work and casual apparel, including denim work shirts, jeans, T shirts, and John’s favorite, Thoroughgood brand work boots. He says, “These are the kind of boot that you never throw out, you get them resoled. They don’t wear out, they ‘ugly out.’” He swears by them.
Amanda and John McGrew, owners of Homeland Trading Company
The local craft market is also being supported at Homeland. For now, they have a number of homemade soy candles created in Elkmont. The colors and aromas are abundant, and more artisan items are going to be added, again, in time for the holidays. For this fall football season, Auburn, UNA and Alabama fans alike will be able to sport the colors of their favorite team. There is an entire wall of dresses in Bear Bryant houndstooth, blue and orange Tiger stripes, and other items that will work for everything from the office to a tailgate party. They have children’s camo overalls, in an assortment of sizes, and all of the “departments” in this modern day “dry goods” store, (without the groceries,) will only be increasing.
So, if you want to get on board the local “Made in America” train, the “station” is Homeland Trading Company, and the McGrews will get you there. “All Aboard!!”
Homeland Trading Company
1207 East Forrest Street Athens, AL 35613 Hours: Tue-Thur 9-5, Fri-Sat, 9-5:30 Phone: 256-444-4825 Facebook: Homeland Trading Company Website is under construction
to Alabama. They are also determined to demonstrate that the belief that products made in America are “too expensive” is just not true. I can say from a thorough examination that the prices in the store are reasonable, which I think can be corroborated by the fact that while I was in the shop for the interview, there was a steady stream of shoppers and purchases being made. So, what can you find at Homeland Trading? There is women’s clothing, from dresses to tops to jeans to accessories.
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Calendar of Events Heritage Children’s Chorale Open Auditions Sep 8th & 14th
Pulaski auditions will be held on September 8th at 4:30 PM at First Presbyterian Church located at 202 South Second Street. Alabama auditions will be held on September 14th at 4:30 PM at First United Methodist Church located at 208 West Hobbs Street. The Heritage Children’s Chorale of the South, a professional children’s chorus made up of young people ranging in age from eight to eighteen, proudly announces open auditions for the 2015-2016 season. Now entering its 27th season, the Chorale was established in Pulaski in 1988, by Mary Stephenson, who continues today as the director. In 1992 an additional chapter was established in Alabama. The Alabama Chapter rehearses each Monday in Athens, AL at First United Methodist Church from 4:30-6:00 and the Tennessee Chapter rehearses each Tuesday in Pulaski, TN at First Presbyterian Church from 4:30-6:00 from September through June. The audition is very child friendly and no prepared selection is required. All children who love to sing are encouraged to audition. For more information please contact Mary Stephenson at 256-874-5572. There is a website available for more detailed information www.hccofthesouth.org
3rd Annual Foundation for Mental Health Golf Tournament Sep 10th
Canebrake Golf Course. 23015 Founders Circle, Athens, AL Registration opens at 11:30AM, Lunch at 12:00PM, Golf at 1:00PM. $150.00 per person; $600.00 per foursome team Golf Ball Drop $5.00 per ball for purse of up to $2500.00. First person with hole-in-one on hole 3 will win a car. For more information Suzanne Linnermann 256-497-6044. Pay online www.mhcnca.org or mail Foundation for Mental Health Attn: Development Office 1316 Sommerville Road SE, Ste 1 Decatur, AL 35601.
Women’s Conference Sep 11th
Lindsay Lane Baptist Church. 1300 Lindsay Lane Baptist Church Athens, AL. Join speaker Michelle Myers for Pursuing God, Our Families and Our Passions at 6:00PM. Catered dinner by Drucilla’s at 5:00PM. Ticket and dinner: $20.00 before August 15, $25.00 afterwards. Tickets available until September 3rd-- lindsaylane.org
9/11 Heroes Run Sept 12th
Alabama Veterans Museum. 100 West Pryor Street, Athens, AL. Join the Athens portion of the 9/11 Heroes Run 5K to honor the sacrifice of the heroes of 9/11 and the wars fought since. Race starts at 7:00AM. For more information or to volunteer: athens@911heroesrun.org or visit www.travismanion.org/tmf_911run_race/911-heroes-runathens-al/
Superhero Day Sep 12th
Big Spring Memorial Park. 106 North Beaty Street, Athens, AL.
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Join Team Victory 4 All in the park to raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer. teamvictory4all.org
Swing Through 5K Sep 12th
Calhoun Community College 6250 U.S. Highway 31, Tanner, AL Runners and walkers will enjoy this certified, flat, closed course on the Tanner campus of Calhoun Community College. Proceeds benefit students of the Physical Therapy Assistant curriculum. Race starts at 8:00AM. For more information or to register: www.active. com/tanner-al/running/distance-running-races/swing-through-5k2015?int=
Fall Gospel Reunion Jubilee Sep 12th
Midway Baptist Church. 26575 U.S. Highway 72E, Athens, AL. Join Midway Baptist Church for an evening of gospel music featuring the Jubilee Reunion Choir and Band at 6:00PM.
18th Annual Crystal Cup Golf Tournament Sep 17th
Canebrake Golf Club. 23015 Founders Cirlce, Athens, AL. 3-Man Scramble with lunch at 11:30AM-1:00PM; tee off at 1:00PM; Dinner at 6:00PM. Golf ball drop to follow at 6:30PM, winner is the one ball closest to the designated hole. Golf Ball $5.00 each and can be purchased by contacting the ALH Foundation at 256-233-9236. 3 person Teams: $600.00; Individual $200.00. For more information Laine Terry 256-233-9236 or lainet@alhnet.org www.alhfevents. org/#!golf-tournament/ck31
Trail of Tears Commemorative Motorcycle Ride Sep 19th
Bridgeport, AL to Waterloo, AL. This commemorative ride will pass through Limestone County via U.S. Highway 72. www.al-tntrailoftears.net
Country Boy Horse Show Sep 19th
Minor Hill City Park. Minor Hill, TN. 5.4 miles from Lester, AL. Admission $5.00; Age 6 & under Free - bring your lawn or camp chair. No horses with pads or chains will be allowed to show. All horses keg shod unless otherwise specified. 26 classes of competition. For more information, call 931-565-3113 www.minorhilltn.com
Senior Lunch Matinée Show Sep 24th
Yesterday’s Event Center. 15631 Brownsferry Road, Athens, AL. Come enjoy the sounds of Silvery Moon Big Band. Cost is $10.00 and includes lunch, drink and dessert. Groups welcome. Event begins 11:00AM - Seating, Opening, Announcements, Blessing, Lunch with the show kicking off at 12:00PM. Cancellation policy applies. RSVP required: info@yesterdaysevents.com
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Foreman’s Forum
Sheep Or Sheep Dogs? by Paul Foreman
Looks like to me those American heroes in France had played war ball in Junior High and remembered how well it worked!
Athens Now is pleased to welcome Paul Foreman, NRA certified firearms and personal defense instructor to our pool of columnists. Foreman’s Forum will be dedicated to safety and security issues, with an ample helping of Paul’s stories from when he was on the force. We hope you enjoy the Forum. As a retired Deputy Sheriff, the subjects of firearms safety and personal safety either at home or in the street are near and dear to my heart. I just hate to see and hear about someone who is a victim of violence, when they can “refuse to be a victim.” Recently, there was an incident in France, where three US citizens, (two of which were US Military,) decided to be what I will describe later as sheep dogs instead of sheep. While other passengers, and even one of the train’s personnel ran the other way, these three heroes ran toward the terrorist who was armed with a Kalashnikov, the Russian equivalent of an AK-47. He also had knives as well as a hand gun. The three heroes took down the terrorist, (who claimed he was only intent upon committing
3 of the 5 French Legion of Honor recipients. From left, American student Anthony Sadler, Oregon National Guard Specialist Alek Skarlatos, Briton Chris Norman. Not pictured: Airman Spencer Stone, who was wounded in the attack, and Frenchman Marc Mooligan, also wounded in the attack.
armed robbery,) and he was then led away by arresting authorities. Remember when we used to play war ball in Junior High? About 50 kids would split up and take sides in the fenced in tennis courts. About 20 soccer sized rubber balls would get dumped in the middle and the coach would blow the whistle. Some of the guys would rush in, grab a ball and start throwing. The rest would huddle in the back corner and get clobbered! The guys who rushed in FULL CHARGE in all-out attack mode would be the last ones standing. I once read a true story about Lt. Ollie North in Viet Nam. His men called him crazy, because he would play “war
ball” with his M16 and Colt 1911. Ollie would charge across a rice paddy or up a hill yelling like a crazy man, firing at the enemy. His men had to either follow or hide in a ditch! Now, I was not much of a jock in Junior High, but I loved war ball, and the coach gave me an A the quarter that we played it. I am learning, (no, “re-learning”) the war ball tactics I used 50+ years ago. Basically, those who huddle in the corner get killed, and those who charge full blast into the fray win. When I was a deputy Sheriff, I was shot at multiple times during one evening on patrol down in the Harlem area of South FT Myers, Florida. I temporarily forgot
my “war ball” experience in Junor High. The backup deputies arrived like a cavalry charge, and boy, was I glad to see them coming! From my position crouched down behind my patrol car, I yelled, “The shots came from over there!” One of the deputies, a Viet Nam Vet, jumped out of his patrol car, shotgun in hand, and ran straight towards the brushy area across the street where the shots had come from. Just like in war ball. Just like Ollie North in Viet Nam. Well, the kid who shot at me was long gone by then, but If I had been playing war ball, maybe I would have gotten him. The shooter was arrested a few days later when an informant ratted him out.
There are sheep and then there are sheep dogs. Now don’t get me wrong, some people just are not sheep dogs. Some people need protecting, and sheep dogs protect the sheep. When I was out west in Colorado a few years ago, we drove into territory that made me feel like I was on a movie set, and John Wayne was shooting bad guys from his perch on top of a stage coach. Now, the Duke was a sheep dog! Then we saw a herd of sheep. There must have been several hundred, right out there on the open range. The sheep were all running one direction, then, they would all suddenly turn. They came running right towards where we were stopped. They started to turn again, but then turned back and crossed the road right in front of us. Then we saw him. A Native American’s sheep dog was herding the sheep towards a rustic, wood corral. The dog would run like crazy, back and forth, first one side then the other, guiding his herd of sheep to safety for the night. My question is, are you a sheep or a sheep dog? I would love to hear your comments and suggestions as to subject matter and content. You can e-mail me at: captureman@paulforeman.com. Be sure and put in the subject line “Foreman’s Forum” and check out my web site: www. paulforeman.com See you at the range!
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Tourism
Fall In North Alabama Is Festival Season by Teresa Todd, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association
With the weather starting to cool off and the days getting shorter, that is a sure sign fall is on its way. In my line of work, it means fall fun is about to begin! September 1st - 30th, the Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association will proudly exhibit works from three local artists Pamela Keller, Gary Anderson and Katelyn Harris who are featured in the Athens Voices Juried Exhibit at the Alabama Center for the Arts in Decatur. Athens Voices celebrates 48 artists from the 8 Athens’ in the United States with a juried art show and traveling exhibit. Please stop by the Athens-Limestone Visitors Center located at 100 N. Beaty Street to see a sampling of the collection Monday Friday 8:30AM-4:30PM and Saturday 8:30AM-11:45AM. For more information, please call 256-232-5411. The Alabama Veterans’ Museum’s Coffee Call will be held on September 5th from 8:00 AM- 9:30 AM at 100 W. Pryor Street. Veterans and their families come together for a free breakfast, and to share their dedication and service to our country at the Veterans’ Museum. The Athens Cruise-In will also be held on September 5th on the Square from 3:00 PM-6:00 PM. As we observe 9/11 this year, we have an opportunity to participate in the Travis Manion Heroes Run. Join the Alabama Veterans Museum to raise awareness and honor the fallen on Saturday, September 12th. To donate or signup go to visit www. travismanion.org search heroes run Athens or email athens@911heroesrun.org. Use the code CB1 when registering so the museum will
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receive a portion of the proceeds. Also see Sandy Thompson’s piece on page …. The Superheroes Day is September 12th at Big Spring Memorial Park 106 North Beaty Street Athens, AL. Come and join Team Victory 4 All in the park to raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer. Everyone is encouraged to wear your super hero costume and enjoy the day in the park
Helmets, Medals, Patches & Badges, Flags, Fields Gear, Documents, Photography and more. Admission: $5.00 per adult. You can also purchase 2-Day passes for $8.00. Children under 12, Military, Police, Fire & Rescue, and ReEnactors in Uniform will enjoy free admission. If you would like to reserve an exhibit table, contact Sandy Thompson, Veterans’ Museum Director at
challenging race will take runners through historic Athens neighborhoods and through the Courthouse Square. Prizes will be awarded, including cash prizes. T-shirts guaranteed to the first 200 registered runners. Find more information at www.duckandrun5k.com. Do you like the music of the BIG BANDS? Then come out to Yesterdays Event Center on September 24th for the Senior Lunch Matinée Show with Silvery Moon Big Band. Event begins 11:00AM with lunch at noon for only $10.00 - RSVP required. For more information email info@yesterdaysevents.com The Annual Tourism Haunts Walks begin in October at the Athens Visitor Center meeting room. These guided Haunts Walks offer a special treat for the Halloween season. Here is your opportunity to get a glimpse into the haunted history and mysterious happenings of Athens through ghost sto-
Beaty Street, Athens, AL. The Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention is known as the “Granddaddy of Midsouth Fiddlers Conventions” for its role in reviving the tradition of competition in old time music. Approximately, 15,000 people are expected to attend the convention this year from more than 30 states. For more information on this festival go to www.athens.edu/fiddlers or call 256-233-8215. Fit As A Fiddle Relay for Life 5K run will be held on October 3rd at the Athens SportsPlex located at 1403 U.S. 31N, Athens, AL. Join the City of Athens Relay for Life team for this annual fundraiser that uses the Athens Greenway to Athens High School Track and back for its route. For more information contact hhollman@ athensal.us One of the cutest races you will ever see is on October
as Team Victory informs attendees about the threats of childhood cancers. Learn more at www.teamvictory4all.org Athens-Limestone Hospital invites everyone to enjoy the day at Canebrake Golf Club for a round of golf supporting the Hospital Foundation. The 18th Annual Crystal Cup Tournament will be held on September 17th with a 3-Man Scramble. Join this full day of fun starting with lunch at 11:30 AM and tee off at 1:00 PM. Contact Laine Terry at 256-233-9236. A new event for Athens is the Alabama Veterans Museum’s Militaria Show to be held at the Limestone County Event Center two days, September 18th and 19th. Come enjoy exhibits on Antique and Military Guns, Ammo, Knives & Edged Weapons, Uniforms &
256-771-7578. Vendors tables (6ft) are $45.00 and display tables (also 6ft) are $20.00. Keep Athens Limestone Beautiful will be having their annual Duck and Run 5K on September 19th at Big Springs Memorial Park at Beaty and Market Streets. This mildly
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ries. This walking tour takes you from the Athens Visitors Center through the historic districts, downtown and Athens State University with guides Shane Black, Billy Ward & Mac Martin recounting tales, woes, and the unexplained. On October 2nd & 3rd, come out to the 49th Annual Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddler Convention on Founders Green located at 300 North
3rd at the Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby at Big Spring Memorial Park Athens, AL. Get your ducks in a row for this Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful fundraiser. Adopt a duck for $5.00 or a QuackPack of 6 ducks for $25.00. Visit Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful (KALB) at 125 East Street, Athens, AL or call 256-233-8728 for more information.
September 4 - September 17, 2015
Cooking with Shelley
Peach Pretzel Salad by Shelley Underhill I know most of us have heard of “Strawberry Pretzel Salad,” but I had never heard of it until I moved to Alabama. The first time I was introduced to this scrumptious desert I fell in love with it. It’s easy to make and hard to resist! This week I am going to share the peach version of this decadent desert. My awesome daughter (who just happens to also be a fabulous cook) prepared her version of this recipe this week. Make some for your family and enjoy. You can email your questions to shelleysdesk@gmail.com
Peach Pretzel Salad Crust: 2 cups crushed pretzels ½ cup sugar 1 & ½ sticks REAL butter
Filling: 8oz cream cheese 3 cups Cool Whip 1 cup sugar
Topping: 1 large package of peach Jell-O 2 cups boiling water 12 large peaches sliced in half long ways
Directions: For crust, crush pretzels, then mix in sugar and butter. Pat into a 9x13-inch Pyrex dish and bake 8-10 minutes at 350 degrees. Let cool. For filling, mix cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar well. Fold in Cool Whip, then spread on top of pretzel layer. For topping, mix the package of Jell-O in boiling water until dissolved, and then add peaches. Let thicken slightly, and poor over cream cheese layer. Refrigerate until set.
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Clean and Green
Why We Do It by Lynne Hart
The mission statement of KALB is “to empower citizens of Athens and Limestone County to take greater responsibility for enhancing their community environment.” Many people know WHAT we do at KALB to fulfill this mission, and many may even know how we do it. The most important question, however, is WHY do we do it. What we do and
how we do it has to be secondary to the “why.” If the “why” does not come first, then the “what” and “how” will be done for the wrong reasons. Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful was certified as a Keep America Beautiful affiliate in 1977, and known as Athens-Limestone Clean Community until
Diane Risdon and Barbara Newman, Board Members
Donna Cotton, Board Member, and Amy Cotton, Volunteer
2002. The organization was established to deal with litter issues and to change behaviors. Since that time, KALB has grown to include the Athens-Limestone Recycling Center and the AthensLimestone Beautification Board. The 40+ members of the KALB Commission, Athens-Limestone Beautification Board, and AthensLimestone Recycling Board are all volunteers. Each one gives of their time because they understand and are passionate about WHY we create green space and beauty, accept more materials at our recycling center than most others, and work so hard to educate students and adults on how human behavior affects our local environment. Management staff and board members within this organization believe the following with passion: •that the health of our environment means everything to the health of our community;
• that clean air to breathe, clean water to drink, and healthy soil are critically important, a right to pass on to future generations, and not something to take for granted; • that a pleasant community appearance can improve quality of life, attract businesses, and increase community loyalty; • that protecting our natural resources by recycling all that we can is good stewardship, saves landfill space, and provides more useful life to the virgin materials we do use; • that we must not be selfish and should make sacrifices in order to protect future generations from dealing with serious environmental issues that, through good choices, could be avoided. If you share our passion for why the KALB organization exists, consider becoming a KALB volunteer. There are many opportunities in a variety of settings. We would be happy to talk about volunteering with no strings attached. Just remember, passion is a requirement!
Become a Fan
(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com Page 12
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September 4 - September 17, 2015
From the Alabama Veterans’ Museum
9/11 Heroes Run
by Sandra Thompson, Director, Alabama Veterans’ Museum
On September 12, 2015, the first 9/11 Heroes Run will be held in Athens. The run, which is being managed by Whitney Hollingsworth, will benefit the the Alabama Veterans Museum & Archives. Whitney started running in high school, then began running competitively in 2003. She heard about the Travis Manion Foundation at a Marine Corps Run and decided she would like to bring the run to Athens. The 9/11 Heroes Run unites communities internationally with the goal to never forget the sacrifices of the heroes of September 11th and in the
wars since: Veterans, first responders, civilians, and military forces. Join us to raise awareness and honor the fallen. The 9/11 Heroes Run 5k +1M fun run/walk welcomes runners and walkers of all levels and of all ages. Events take place all over the world, on or near September 11th, and are organized by local volunteers who have asked themselves “If Not Me, Then Who” and are serving in their communities. A large portion of the funds raised through the 9/11 Heroes Run are invested back into the race communities to support local veterans, first responders, troops and military families. The re-
September 4 - September 17, 2015
maining proceeds support the Travis Manion Foundation’s community building projects, programs that inspire future leaders, initiatives that foster camaraderie, and events that support our veterans, service members, and their families. The run, which begins and ends at the Alabama Veterans Museum, will start at 7:00am. Senator Bill Holtzclaw will speak at the opening ceremony. Please help us get the word out about the race. For more information, contact the museum or Whitney Hollingsworth at 256-6517507. The museum is located at 100 W. Pryor st in Athens, AL.
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Health and Fitness
Exercise Bike or Treadmill? by Janet Hunt Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment. Two of the more popular exercise machines in the gym and my studio are the stationary bike and treadmill. Outside the gym, biking and walking are very popular. Often my students or clients ask which machine or form of exercise is best. My first answer is to select the one you are most likely to use and continue over time. An unused exercise machine does nothing but take up room. Exercising regularly is important for losing weight, looking and feeling better, and most importantly for your longterm health. If you don’t really have a preference, you might want to consider safety and workout effectiveness. Safety Treadmill Pros •If used correctly, most new models include automatic shut-off safety devices if you should fall. Treadmill Cons •You can misstep and fall off a treadmill. •Treadmills put more stress on your knees and ankles. If you have arthritis, you might find a treadmill painful at times. Stationary Bike Pros •A bike is the safest if joint stress is a major concern
due to age or injury. •It is very difficult to fall off an exercise bike. •If you have an upper body injury, the support of a recumbent bike may allow you to continue exercising. Stationary Bike Cons •Reaching for the handle bars on an upright exercise bike may put stress on your back and discourage proper posture. Workout Effectiveness Treadmill Pros •At the same intensity, a treadmill will burn more calories per hour than a stationary bike. •Walking on a treadmill uses your core muscles to stabilize your body throughout your workout, and allows you to get a more all-over workout, especially if you swing your arms as you walk. •Walking is a weight bearing exercise, so it helps maintain your bone density.
you will burn more calories per session on an exercise bike. Stationary Bike Cons •Focuses only on the major muscles of the legs. Riding doesn’t really do much for the rest of the body. Boredom
Treadmill Cons
Treadmill Pros
•If you have joint issues, a treadmill may be too jarring.
•If you can put your treadmill near your TV, you can watch TV or movies. If you don’t watch TV, listen to music.
Stationary Bike Pros •If you cannot walk 10 minutes on a treadmill but can easily ride for 20 minutes on an exercise bike,
•On upright exercise bikes, you probably cannot read because you need handlebars for your balance. •If you get distracted on a bike, you may decrease you speed without realizing it. Either piece of equipment will help you in your quest
for weight loss and improved health, but sticking with your option is the most important, so choose the piece of equipment you are most likely to continue using. For more information regarding exercise equipment and exercise types, talk to a Personal Trainer.
•You can change your treadmill incline or speeds. Treadmill Cons •The treadmill noise will often compete with the television unless you use earplugs. Stationary Bike Pros •Like a treadmill, a bike can be placed in front of a TV, but you can also read, play video games or even talk on the phone safely. Stationary Bike Cons
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September 4 - September 17, 2015
Cover Story
Olympian Picabo Street Coming To Huntsville Ski Club by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1
Fierce competitor and athlete safety advocate, Picabo Street
Huntsville Area Board of Realtors Building, located at 525 Monroe Street, and the meet and greet begins at 7 pm. Ms. Street will begin her presentation at 7:30 pm, and there is no cost to attend. Picabo is a legend in the sport, and as an Olympian, pulled down a gold and silver medal. As a World Cup skier, she took a gold, a silver, and a bronze. However, as is often the case, there is a “story behind the story.” Her first Olympic fame came as a result of her taking the silver medal in the women’s downhill competition during the 1994 Lillehammer Winter Games, held in Norway. After that triumph, disaster struck. During a routine training run at Vail, Colorado, she tore her anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, which can often signal the end of a sports career. This injury was to her left knee. She worked through close to 11,000 hours of rehab to regain her former prowess, came back and went on to win a gold in the Super-G event held at the Winter Games in Nagano, Japan, in 1998. This was the high point of her career, no doubt something she’ll discuss on September 16th. Not long after, she was competing in the World Cup in Switzerland, and lost control at 70 mph during the downhill competition. She crashed into a fence, tore her
right ACL, and this time also shattered her femur in 9 places. She refused to be bested, and while this time she was out of the sport for two years, she qualified for a spot on the US Women’s Olympic Ski Team for the games that were held in Salt Lake City in 2002. Now she lives in Warrior, is married, and is the mother of 4 boys. She is a published author, a network sports commentator, and is passionate about skier safety, prevention, and rehab. Some of her work includes being involved with the Olympic Committee’s Stay On The Slopes organization, which focuses on providing injury preventing technology for skiers and snowboarders. And, as she is also involved in helmet testing, don’t even THINK about skiing around her without a helmet! She says, “Now I get so much pleasure out of helping the next generation to do prehab to keep them on the slopes, to also make sure their equipment is dialed in right, to make sure that they are comfortable with it, and it’s working well for them.” She added, “And to make sure they’re doing all the cross training
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“reverse snowbird.” He organizes the Ski Club’s annual trips to places like Steamboat Springs, Lake Tahoe, Winter Park, Park City, Breckenridge, Beaver Creek, and so much more. He has been a part of the Ski Patrol in Alabama
they need to do to be strong enough to be out there competing.” Her story is inspiring, whether or not you are a skier, and as someone who started to ski when I was 5, I am planning on hearing what she
an entire family the cost is $40. Huntsville Ski Club is a member of a ski alliance called Crescent Ski Council. The Club’s constitutionally stated purpose is to “promote alpine skiing.” However, they want to build community by building families, and you don’t
Looking down the slope into the town of Telluride have to have ever been on a pair of skis or a slope in your life. They are hoping you will join them on September 16th to hear Picabo, and then discover with them what I can only describe as wonderful sensation of “flying while your feet are still on the ground.”
Huntsville Ski Club member Vonette Hartsfield and her 2 grandchildren on a club sponsored ski trip has to say. She especially loves working with kids. Besides encouraging the residents of Huntsville to fight back through any adversity, the Ski Club is also hoping to gain new members. I spoke at length with Gene Hartsfield, a man who did not begin to ski until he was 45, got “bit” by the ski bug, and as a retired NASA Engineer, could be described as a
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at Cloudmont, which is located in Mentone. The Huntsville Ski Club does far more than skiing. There are cruises, hikes, trips, and other activities, and the Club currently has about 300 members. They are hoping to add to their membership roster, and the fees for belonging to the Club are more than reasonable. A single yearly membership is $30, and for
Huntsville Ski Club
Meetings: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month Location: Huntsville Area Board of Realtors Bldg 525 Monroe Street, HSV, AL, 35801 Point of Contact: Gene Hartsfield, 256-497-0474 or ski.gene@yahoo.com Website: www.huntsvilleskiclub.org Page 15
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Cover Story
The Dance Academy: Drawing Forth The Best In Dancers For 29 Years by Ali Elizabeth Turner
continued from page 1
where higher education was not only encouraged, but required. She attended UNA, Athens State University, Calhoun, and North Shoals, and holds degrees in Photography, Computer Information Sciences, Business Management, and Marketing. However, dancing was her chief love. 29 years ago, as a young bride, she worked third shift, slept, and in the afternoons taught dance in her basement. She quickly outgrew that, and then she and her then husband built a studio adjacent to their home. She outgrew the studio as well. In the meantime, she gave birth to two boys, and then Victoria unexpectedly found herself in the position of being a single mom. She supported her toddlers through her dance school in Florence for 20 years, met Allen, (the love of her life) 10 years ago, and he encouraged her to open up another branch of The Dance Academy in 2014. The Dance Academy locations are in Florence at 2801 Mall Drive, and in Athens at 1207 East Forrest Street. Over the years, this well trained troupe has given soldout performances of The Nutcracker Suite, has won many Platinum and High Gold awards, as well as college scholarships for exceptional students. Several of her students have worked in New York and Disney, Orlando, and she told me, “Now I am teaching the second generation of my first students!” Victoria, who also gets called “Mimi” by her students and her grandchildren who study with her, runs a tight but loving ship. For example, she does not permit inappropriate language, dance moves, clothes or behavior, and the parents thank her for it. But, she told me, “Once I had a student knock on my door at midnight because she needed
my help,” and Victoria looks upon her students as family. She is also certified to teach by Dance Masters of America, an international organization of dance instructors. Speaking of the Nutcracker, this year’s performance will be held at UNA on December 11th, so save the date! It will be a function of The North Alabama Ballet Company, which she formed 19 years ago. Victoria has this to say: “The North Alabama Ballet Company was formed because I wanted to give area dancers a chance to perform more than just at their annual recital. Since The Nutcracker, is a world renown ballet, I thought it was important for our students to be educated in the history of this production. So, I studied with the Appalachian Ballet Company, and then formed my own company. It’s a not-for-profit organization, and all funds raised go back into the company. Area schools are invited to see The Nutcracker as a field trip, and the students will get educated in the Arts and enjoy an elaborate production with beautiful music and costumes. Teachers can call now to reserve their space at 256-366-6136. This fall we will be attending various workshops to enhance our training, plus a special guest instructor will hold workshops here at our studios.” Victoria also wanted people to know that in addition
Madalyn Pace, Granddaughter of The North American Ballet Company founder, Victoria Pace
to the performance of The Nutcracker, there will be a recital at UNA on June 11th of 2016. In the spring the Company’s competition teams will be travelling and competing for cash prizes and awards. They have won many awards in the past, and hope to take home several prizes and scholarships this year as well. What can parents expect their children to learn at the Dance Academy? Ballet, Jazz, Acro, Lyrical, Contemporary, Tap, Hip Hop, Cheer, Pointe, and Musical Theatre. Boys learn Hip Hop and tumbling at half price. There is a class called Diaper Dancers, and her youngest granddaughter is a
Brooklyn Bates
graduate. Victoria especially designed this class when her granddaughter was born, and it is for babies age 1-3. The cost is only $25 per month. Fall classes begin September 8th, and registration is going on now. If you register now, there will be a discount, and if you or your child are not quite sure about your choice, the first class is free. Victoria also does fundraisers to offset costs, and there is a referral program whereby you can get free tuition. We finished our time by Victoria telling me the following: “Dance has been my life since I was 6 years
old. I love children, and this beautiful art. Watching a child overcome shyness or just build the confidence it takes to perform in front of a large audience is so rewarding to me. It’s why I teach. I want to build strong, confident young adults.” If that sounds like what you want for your child or grandchild, then the Dance Academy in Florence or Athens may just be what you have been looking for. Come and visit, and ask Victoria any questions you may have. Enjoy the fruit of 29 years of experience and all the artistic grace, beauty, poise, confidence and creative expression possible at The Dance Academy.
The Dance Academy
The Dance Academy Musical Theatre performers
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Florence & Athens, AL 2801 Mall Drive, Florence 1207 East Forrest, Suite I, Athens Phone: 256-366-6136, 256-614-5510 Email: victoria5w@aol.com Page 17
Learning As A Lifestyle
Taking Care of Business
by Wanda Campbell
Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 At the Center for Lifelong Learning, we have taken on a new initiative. Our new focus will be taking care of businesses. If you have are looking for someone to help your business develop training, please call the Center. We can do needs assessments, develop training with specific curriculum, and locate instructors for your existing training. We offer rooms for company trainings and retreats. We also have three new courses in the works. We have partnered with the Decatur-Morgan County Entrepreneurial Center to offer Business 101, a nine-week course that focuses on everything a business owner should know. Class is scheduled Mondays, September 14 – November 9, from 5:30pm to 9:00pm at the Center for Lifelong Learning, 121 South Marion Street, Athens, Alabama. The fee for the course is $350. CEUs are available by request for additional $25. A variety of experts will teach the weekly segments of the course. This all-inclusive nineweek program includes real-world expertise from small business
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owners and an opportunity for participants to have their questions and concerns answered while developing or improving their business plan. Participants will be involved in strategic planning and the establishment of a solid foundation. It is designed for entrepreneurs with new business startups, owners of a growing business, employees of small business who want to add value and support in their job, and anyone desiring knowledge of entrepreneurship and how to start a business.
Another new course at the Center is the Accounting CPE Forum. The class is offered on Friday, September 18, from 8:00am to 5:00pm, at the Center for Lifelong Learning. The fee is $150. Continuing education credit for accountants and attorneys is available. Eight CPEs include 4 in accounting and auditing, 2 in tax, and 2 in business. Four CLEs for attorneys are available.
Emily Corzine, CPA, CMA, GCMA; John Gatlin, CPA, and assistant Professor at Athens State University; and Ana Ramos, an investigator with the Corporate Security Department of Regions Financial Corporations in Huntsville, Alabama. Another new course is the Basic Archery Instructor Workshop. Did you know that archery posi-
tively influences student attendance, behavior, self-esteem, confidence, and on-task behaviors? Do you want to add archery to your Physical Education curriculum? This workshop will help you get certified to teach Archery in your school. Basic Archery Instructor Workshop is scheduled on Wednesday, September 23, from 8:00am – 5:00pm at the Carter Gymnasium on the Athens State campus. The course is approved for eight CEUs. There is no fee for teachers in the region but the fee for the general public is $40. We are planning a tournament in the winter semester. For more information contact Kim Bell at 256-233-8260. Look for more business specific programs to be offered in the coming months. You can find out about all our courses on our website – www. athens.edu/cll - or call us at 256-233-8260 and we will mail you a catalog.
Accounting CPE Forum will feature an accounting update from 8:00am – 10:00am; a tax update from 10:00am – 12:00pm; Securities and Fraud for Financial Institutions will be from 1:00pm – 3:00pm, and an Audit Update will be from 3:00pm – 5:00pm. Lunch is on your own. The instructors for the Accounting CPE Forum include John Berzert, CPA, CMA, GCMA;
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September 4 - September 17, 2015
Jerry’s Journal
Remembering Dan Williams, Part 1 by Jerry Barksdale Shortly before my good friend, State Representative and former Athens Mayor, Dan Williams passed away, I visited him at his home. We reminisced about yesteryear. We first met at Athens High School in the 11th grade and became good buddies and remained so for 58 years. I miss his chuckle and good humor. Our friendship was cemented while sacking groceries at A & P. Mr. Alfred London was manager and carried out his responsibilities like Moses leading the children of Israel out of bondage. He perched in his front office like a hawk, watching for any sign of indolence. One goof-up and I’d be back chopping cotton for $3.00 a day. Dan and I worked Saturdays from 7a.m. til 9p.m. and earned about $9.00; big money for me! We wore black pants, white shirts and black bow ties. Our job was to remove the groceries from the shopping cart and place them on the check-out counter in categories – cans, produce, meats, etc. Placing them in the incorrect order brought a rebuke from the check-out ladies who punched in the price of each item individually; scanners hadn’t been invented yet. The ladies were usually tired and grouchy by mid-afternoon. We sacked the groceries in brown paper bags and carried them to the customer’s car. I preferred working for Elizabeth “Liz” Bryant, whose daughter, Brenda was a classmate. If I mistakenly placed eggs with a can of soup while scoping out a pretty woman, Liz
would react. “Wake up Barksdale!” Smoking and accepting tips was a fireable offense. We hid a lit cigarette around the corner of the building and took
a puff on the way out and on the return trip. A lady handed me a quarter. “Ma’am, I can’t take it,” I said, eyeing enough money to purchase a pack of cigarettes. “Why not?” she asked. “Mr. London will fire me,” I replied. “I’ll take care of Alfred London,” she said and placed the quarter in my palm. A quarter was a lot of money back in 1957. Gas was 31₡ a gallon, bread was 19₡ a loaf and a postage stamp was 3₡. Red McCormick managed the meat market. Most Saturday afternoons, Judge David L. Rosenau, a tight-fisted shopper, came in looking for a cheap cut of meat. He lived nearby and sometimes entered the store from the rear. He would inspect each cut of meat and ponder at length before making a decision to purchase. One Saturday he bought several cheap pork chops for supper. Dan was in the rear of the store when the back door swung open. A black skillet, still smoking and attached
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to the end of an arm poked through. “RED! WHERE IS RED?” It was Judge Rosenau and his dander was up. “The pork chops had shrunk to the size of quarters and were
floating in a puddle of grease,” said Dan. Red came running. “What’s wrong Judge?” “Look at these pork chops, Red. They shrunk!” “Well Judge that’s what happens when you buy cheap cuts of meat that’s mostly fat,” replied Red. Dan and I were famished by the time the store closed at 9:00 p.m. We swept the aisles, and after being satisfied they were clean, Mr. London paid us. We struck out walking to Sue-Wil Grill on Clinton Street and ordered hamburger steak, greasy fries, brown rolls and sweet tea. We sopped every puddle of grease on the plate. Our next stop was C.M. Officers Pool Hall on East Washington Street near the railroad where we cracked a few balls.
and I liked to hear George’s accent. “Hey George, loan me a nickel,” one of us would say. “Broke – sick – hungry,” he would reply in broken English and tap the floor with his cane. Someone told me later that George once operated a hamburger joint nearby and loved to gamble. Later, I landed a part time job at McConnell’s Funeral Home through the Diversified Occupation Program at Athens High School. I worked over 70 hours a week – if you can call that part time – and was paid $28.00; I was in high cotton. I left school at noon, worked the rest of the day, all night and was off on alternating nights. Dan often came by to visit me at night. He was present when I received a call that a man had shot himself. “Come on,” I said. We jumped in the old 1952 Cadillac hearse, turned on the siren and roared through the night. When we rolled the cot into the kitchen, a body was sitting in a straight-back chair, slumped forward, scalp hanging over the face. A shotgun was propped against the chair. The poor soul had blown his head nearly off. After loading him in the hearse, I got a bedpan and filled it with fragments of remaining skull, hair
and brains and placed it on the floorboard on the passenger side. Dan sat silent with both feet hiked up in the seat. “I ain’t never seen anything like that,” he finally said. “In the movies all you see is a chalk outline of the body.” Dan was elected President of our Senior Class. We graduated in May, 1960 and enrolled at Athens College. I was in love with Carol O’Connell, a skinny 17 year old brunette with big brown eyes from Coleman Hill. “Jerry, she is so skinny she don’t’ even cast a shadow,” Dan said. Her father had emphysema and was moving to Arizona as soon as Carol graduated. She didn’t want to go. “What the heck?” I thought. I made a deal with Mrs. Cluxton to purchase an engagement ring on installments, and proposed to Carol. Our wedding date was set for August 30, 1961 at Market Street Church of Christ. I asked Dan to be my best man. I rented a small apartment on the ground floor from Mrs. Ben Peck on South Beaty Street. All my little love nest needed was a thorough scrubbing. I recruited Dan and our buddy, Brown (not real name) to help. “We’ll make it a fun party,” I promised. TO BE CONTINUED…
“George the Greek,” who lived at the Ross Hotel across the street, was always present. He sat in one of the elevated chairs that could have been a shoe shine stand at one time, dressed in an old suit and bowler hat. A walking cane was between his knees. Dan
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Dog Barker
Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner?! by Joel Allen Ever have guests over to your house and they bring their dog who is a “Holy Terror?” “Holy Terror,” (Joel’s definition) is a very rowdy, mud throwing, slobbering, jumping, pawing, begging, stealing while counter surfing, barking, tornado of destruction and terrorist to your own dog in the house. This dog is so untrained that when it is time for your guests to arrive, you are already taking Goody’s headache powders and calling me, frantically asking for quick counter measures. In this case, I applaud the use of taking a preventative to a migraine. Well, guess who’s coming to dinner? The holidays will soon be upon us, and it is my hope that this article will give some advance tidbits to
the face for not taking the time to develop their Doggie Skills. If this fails, we can use plan C.
Plan C: Well, you call me 256-651-2211 and I will come to visit and help your guests see a better way and better dog. Besides, would it not be considerate of them to train their dog?
prepare for canine guests. “They’re heeerrree!” You say eerily, to warn everyone as you answer the door. First one through the door
is the unleashed “Holy Terror” who runs straight to your dog. Your dog, being the age he is, rejects “Holy Terror’s” invitation to become best buddies. The Pet Parents of the dog, now ripping through your house, just smile and say things like, “Awe! How cute! He loves your house.” Then you hear the return of their dog and like nails on a chalkboard, you hear the distinct clawing of the dog’s nails on your nice finished hardwood floor. Remaining
civil is one way to deal with the situation because you don’t want to offend your guests. But, what do you do? Plan A: To deal with said situation is to ask your guests to please control their dog (Be careful how you ask someone to control their dog because it is easy to hurt some people’s feelings). At this point, I can imagine you want to scream at the unruly dog. Don’t do this because yelling and losing your temper will get you the “Have you lost your mind?!” look. Plus, the dog will most likely ignore what you are saying, so you just wasted your breath. If this tactic fails, then we go to plan B. Plan B: This is the strategy of using a spray bottle or squirt gun (In my case a Super Soaker, hahaha) with the concoction of 1/3 vinegar to 2/3’s water. Set for stream and spray the unruly dog in the face. If your guests have an issue with this, spray them in
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A lot of people don’t realize they are being inconsiderate when they bring their untrained dog or puppy. I always ask or warn that Zues will be with me and when someone has a problem with Zues, I either don’t visit or I try to accommodate the situation. So, let’s all try and work things out because soon it will be the season of forgiving and remembering all our loved ones. Gifts will be exchanged and everyone will be eating all sorts of goodies. Lastly, you might get lucky because “Holy Terror” might decide to bring back your slippers that he originally took when no one was watching. Hence, soaking his Pet Parents with vinegar and water can be a great remedy for you and their dog can laugh at them in his own way. “Remember to love your dogs because they love you. Maybe not the way you want them to, like chewing up your favorite shoes or what not, but that is just love chewing. Be thankful for the time you have with them always.”
Joel and Zues Allen 256-651-2211
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What Makes Ronnie Roll
The Old Blue Suit by Ali Elizabeth Turner is the need for all of us to return to a state of giving the benefit of the doubt, and to be civil, even when we disagree. All of us in this town have people with whom we don’t agree, either religiously, philosophically, or politically. We have different concepts of what we should approve and how we should spend public funds, run government, construct buildings, and provide services.
Recently Mayor Ronnie came across a story that underscores some qualities in our culture that have become, if you will pardon the pun, a bit “frayed.” There are any number of ways to describe that which has become “unraveled.” In the 19th century, the terms were “civility” and “deportment.” In the 20th century they were simply defined as having “good manners,” or stated by way of retort, “my daddy didn’t raise me that way.” The story Mayor Ronnie told me was about Cecil Rhodes, the British man who started the Rhodes Scholar prize and Rhodes University. Love him or hate him for his impact on South Africa, this particular story illustrates the power of being flexible and gracious, especially when things aren’t going properly. As was the case with most wealthy people during Queen Victoria’s reign, being appropriately dressed for dinner was non-negotiable. You didn’t come to the table in cargo shorts, a T shirt and flip flops, and Cecil was a stickler for formal dress when expected.
Cecil Rhodes, the wearer of the old blue suit guests. (I don’t know why the young man wasn’t invited to go change, but that’s beside the point.) Before anyone knew it, Mr. Rhodes appeared dressed for dinner in a noticeably worn old blue
suit, and warmly welcomed his guest to the table. Cecil may have been a stickler, but not at the expense of the feelings of others. What struck Mayor Ronnie in the “blue suit” story
But, what kind of legacy are we handing down to the young people who will be running Athens- Limestone County before we can make, as my dad used to say, “two shakes of a lamb’s tail?” Did they see a good example coming from us as we grappled with the recent school vote, and find themselves being inspired to step up and take over when it’s their time, or did the Facebook fights make them want to run the
other direction?
“Thankfully, there were 50 young people who voted, most of whom were college students,” he told me. And, I learned that in contrast to 2012, when only 20% of our citizens turned out to vote, this time 44% of our registered voters cast their ballot. As bumpy as it was, we both concluded that it was “democracy in action,” and indeed there was cause to hope. “We have got to get better at agreeing to disagree,” he said, “if for no other reason than public safety. We will all feel anger sometimes, and it has its place, but don’t we also need to get good at managing it?” I nodded, and we prayed, most specifically that we would all be willing, for the sake of unity in our town, to wear “an old blue suit.”
The Right Honorable Mr. Rhodes was having a formal dinner, and a young man who had been invited to the fete found himself in what appeared to be a dilemma with no proper solution for the etiquette of the day. The train had been delayed, and while the young man had brought proper attire for the evening, he had no chance to change ahead of time. He arrived bedraggled in travel-stained clothing, was willing to convey his solemn regrets, and not join Mr. Rhodes or his other
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Medical Update
Notes From A Nurse: Burnout by Rachel Clark, RN, BSN
Nurse burnout is a huge problem in this country, and is projected to become even more so in the future. Despite the fact that enrollment in bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral nursing programs is up, there is still projected to be a shortage of registered nurses (RNs) by the year 2030. There are many factors that drive the shortage, including the high burnout rate. Contributing factors to the burnout rate include staffing problems, sicker patients, and working long hours. The term “burnout” was coined by American psychologist Herbert Freudenberger in the 1970s. According to an article from the American Nurses Association (ANA), he used it to describe the consequences of severe stress and high ideals experienced by people working in the “helping” professions. It is difficult to tell how many people may actually be affected by burnout, because this term is no longer exclusive to those in healthcare. However, no matter the career path, the symptoms of burnout seem to be the same. Symptoms Constant fatigue. You should not go to bed tired and still wake up tired in the morning. When you find yourself without the energy to do common everyday things like exercise, spend time with family or friends, or read a good book, this physical exhaustion could be an early symptom of burnout. Feelings of being overworked and under appreciated. If you are feeling this way, it may be time to re-evaluate and figure out why you are feeling this way. If you are working too many hours, it may be time to cut back. If
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you are taking on too much, you may need to figure out how you can cut back. Feeling frustrated and resentful about your job is not good for you, your co-workers, or your patients. If you feel this way, you may need to step back and see how or if being a nurse still fits in with your plans and goals for life, and it’s ok if it doesn’t. Lack of enthusiasm about work. When you are “just going through the motions,” can be another sign of impending burnout. If you are at home dreading going to work, or are at work and can only think
people don’t understand the demanding nature of being a nurse. They aren’t aware of what happens on a daily basis, or the strain that it puts on a person to be able to deal with multiple complex patient care scenarios. Often times, family members expect the nurse to leave his or her work at work, and not to talk about it at home. Many hospitals have an employee assistance program in place, but many nurses don’t use it. Some out of fear that their discussions will be shared with their supervisors. Others don’t use it because of
by what is happening in this environment, imagine being responsible for 4 or more complex patients and managing their care! In addition, hospitals are being paid on satisfaction rates by patients’ perceptions. Trying to keep up with everything every one wants exactly when they want it can be extremely daunting. Work-life imbalance. Sometimes you have issues going on at home that affect your performance at work, and vice versa. When this happens, you aren’t able to give your full attention to one arena or another, and the
about going home, this can adversely affect patient care since it is vital that you are able to concentrate on what needs to be done for your patient(s) moment by moment. It can also spill over into other areas of life. Compassion fatigue. This is when you become detached from patients, feel cynical about your work, or feel that you are a failure as a nurse. It is often after years of emotional stress, physical stress, and the experiences on the job. Contributing Factors Lack of social support. Many
the stigma of “going to see a counselor.” Inability to control schedules or assignments. Many places set a nurse’s schedule for them, and they have no say in it. Some set schedules force nurses to work 3 days in a row, giving little time to recuperate in between work days. Not everyone can handle this type of scheduling, yet there is little that can be done about it. Chaotic environment. On any given day in a hospital, things are extremely chaotic. Ask any person who has ever been a patient! If they feel overwhelmed
other suffers. Staffing issues. This is one of the biggest contributing factors, if not the biggest. Despite enrollment being up, the shortage of nurses persists. Sometimes this is due to budgeting, which often backfires because then patient safety becomes an issue. Other times it is due to the fact hat you can’t keep staff in a department. No matter the reason, it is vital that staffing problems be addressed. Continually running on a “skeleton crew” adversely affects not only nurses, but patients as well. Fixing this one issue has
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the potential to offset most of the others. What To Do About It There are many things that you can do personally to take care of yourself and decrease the stress and likelihood of burnout. Stretching. Sometimes, just stretching out your muscles helps relieve the tension in them. This can improve strength, flexibility, and posture. You can even teach simple stretches to your patients, giving good self-care at the same time. Meditation or Prayer. Taking a short break to be able to clear your mind helps tremendously. Even if it is just five minutes. Quiet your mind and spirit. Focus on your breathing and being still, and teach your patient(s) to do the same. Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT). This is simply a sequence of tapping on different meridian points on the body that can help clear out stuck electrical energy, negative emotions, and stress chemicals. For more information on EFT, you can visit www.thetappingsolution.com if you are interested in learning the basic techniques. If you would be interested in a more in-depth program and coaching, you can visit www. donmilton.net. Breathing Exercises. Just practice taking long, slow, deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. I’ve often done this with people, patients included. Teaching your patient to become more aware of their breathing is a great way for you to get in touch with your own, and you both benefit. Nurses, I would be interested in knowing if this has been helpful for you. Let’s beat back burnout together! You can contact me at rachel.athensnow@gmail.com.
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