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Seth lives life to the fullest Not letting his disease stop him

Inside this edition: A mission field in Talladega Eli’s wish is to be a fireman 1 • Hartselle Living

Vol. 6, Issue 2

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HARTSELLE

table of contents

Seth lives life to the fullest

FEBRUARY 2016

Not letting his disease stop him

Inside this edition: Talladega

in A mission field be a fireman Eli’s wish is to Vol. 6, Issue 2

Hartselle Living

•1

HOMES ON THE COVER

14. Seth lives life to the fullest

While students no longer fill the rooms of this grand structure the history that took place inside the walls will continue to be shared for generations to come. (Photo

by Randy Garrison)

While many would have withdrawn into a dark hole to escape the public eye, Ballew lives his life openly.

He is involved in more academic and extracurricular activities than some who have no health issues at all.

STAFF President and Publisher Randy Garrison Contributors Clif Knight Caleb Suggs Advertising Pam Gray Office Staff Ann Kirby April Thompson Katie Sparkman

Departments 10

7 CONTACT US Hartselle Newspapers, LLC 407 Chestnut St. NW P.O. Box 929 Hartselle, AL 35640 256-773-6566 Fax: 256-773-1953 info@hartselleliving.com Hartselle Living is published monthly by Hartselle Newspapers, LLC. A one-year subscription to the Hartselle Enquirer and Hartselle Living is $39 in county or $78 out of county.

Single copies are available at select locations throughout the Hartselle area.

To advertise or to get more FREE copies, call 773-6566. www.hartselleliving.com Copyright 2015 by Hartselle Newspapers, LLC

5 • Hartselle Living

FEATURE: Eating right can improve quality of life

FEATURE: A mission field in Talladega

22

19

FEATURE: Eli’s wish to be a fireman

FOOD: Thoughts on Pasta

IN EACH ISSUE: Letters • 6 Calendar • 8 Out & About • 26 Classifieds • 29 Parting Shot • 30

LETTERS

Blessings come in all forms, Even by sharing someone’s life story

Randy Garrison • Letter from the Publisher lessings are defined as the infusion of something with holiness. Many think to be blessed is to be favored by God. Another definition of a blessing is something that allows or helps you to do something or brings you happiness.

Being blessed means receiving help from God. I want to share something I feel is a blessing in my life: The opportunities I have been given to share stories about people’s lives has been a great blessing to me over the past year.

Some folks might question my thought process in believing this to be a blessing, but I have no doubt God placed me

B

6 • Hartselle Living

in a position to be able to share some of the stories – especially stories about people – with others.

Now most of you know writing and journalism was not something I was trained for, formally or even by accident.

However, I am finding the more I write, the more I really enjoy this part of my job.

I think part of the enjoyment is being able to listen to folks tell their stories and then recalling and living the story again before placing it in print. I dare you to think listening to heartfelt stories from someone’s life would not stir your sprit and fill you innermost being with care and concern for that person.

Many times blessings come in the form of thankfulness that God placed a person in our path for a particular reason. I do not believe we are just random beings existing in a galaxy without any sort of guidance and direction. I firmly believe God puts people in situations where they can help others, even if that’s just by listening to their stories – or by being the instrument used to share that story.

God places people in our paths to help us be better people, as well. When I wrote a story about a little boy with muscular dystrophy, who probably enjoys life more than any little one I have ever been around, that was not an accident or a random circumstance in life. Whenever I begin to feel sorry for myself, or feel like the world is about crash down around me, I think of Ethan’s smile – a smile that would fill a football stadium – and how excited he gets when he talks about building something with his Legos and the effect he has on all those around him. No doubt that meeting this little boy was a blessing to me.

Just a couple of weeks ago I interviewed three folks who work in education: two teachers and a cafeteria manager. The main thread through all three of the interviews was how much each of them care for and love their students. Each one did not consider their professions as simply being jobs, but much

more – almost to the point of being a ministry. Each of them wants to be sure whatever they do will make the lives of their students better, whether that’s making sure they have at least one good meal during the week, teaching them to reach for their dreams, or trying to give them the best education they can possibly receive.

Last week I wrote a story about a young man who has a disease that has resulted in losing all of his hair. Now some might think there are worse things that could happen to a person, but put yourself in his place: you are in high school, and everyone looks at you differently and wonders what is wrong with you. But this young man is using his condition to help others. He does not ask why this happened to him but feels like God will use what he is going through to make a difference in someone’s life. He also has plans to become a dermatologist so he can help others who are going through the same type of situation. He has not let the disease stop him from living his life but instead is even more determined to achieve his goals and dreams.

It has been a blessing to share these stories with our readers, and I hope I continue to have the opportunity to do so. You have to grow where you are planted, and the seeds God has planted were not planted by accident.

Eating right can improve quality of life

L

egend states that on April 2, 1513, Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León was the first European to discover modern-day Florida when he traveled on a quest for the mythical “Fountain of Youth.” While modern science has proven that there is no mystical fountain or body of water that can reverse or slow down the aging process, there are many steps people can take to age well and prolong their lives.

Eating the right foods is one way to age well. According to Ralph Felder, M.D., Ph.D., coauthor of “The Bonus Years Diet,” reversing the aging process internally is more difficult than outward cosmetic changes. But the right foods can go a long way toward increasing both life expectancy and quality of life. Those who want to employ diet to increase their life expectancy may want to start adding more of the following foods to their breakfast, lunch and dinner plates.

• Broccoli, grapes and salad: According to Health magazine, researchers have found that 7 • Hartselle Living

compounds in these three foods boast extra life-extending benefits.

maintain a healthy weight and protect against cardiovascular disease.

• Berries: In addition to their abundance of antioxidants, berries have other benefits. A 2012 study from Harvard University found that at least one serving of blueberries or two servings of strawberries each week may reduce the risk of cognitive decline in older adults.

• Whole grains: Whole grains pack a lot of nutrition into a low-calorie food. Whole grains help protect against type 2 diabetes, and researchers at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center found study participants whose diets included plenty of whole grains and fruit cut their heart disease risk by almost half compared to those whose diets favored meat and fatty foods.

• Fruits and vegetables: Produce is good for the body because it’s low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins and other nutrients. Numerous studies have indicated that diets plentiful in fruits and vegetables help people

• Red wine: A glass a day for women and no more than two glasses daily for men can be ben-

eficial. Moderate consumption of red wine has been shown to slow age-related declines in cardiovascular function, according to the American Heart Association.

• Fiber: Increase your fiber intake for a longer life. Research from The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finds that the more fiber you include in your diet, the lower your risk of coronary heart disease. The daily recommendation is 25 to 35 grams.

While there may be no such thing as the fountain of youth, a healthy diet can help men and women prolong their lives.

CALENDAR March 5 Fashion Show Decatur Charity League presents a Spring Fashion Show and Mimosa Brunch for PACT March 10,11& 12 Hairspray Hartselle Jr. High Presents “Hairspray” March 21-25 Spring Break Hartselle City and Morgan County Schools observe Spring Break April 7 Rodeo Morgan County Sheriff’s Special Needs Rodeo at the Posse Grounds in Hartselle

April 8-9 Rodeo Morgan County Sheriff’s Rodeo at the Morgan County Celebration Arena

HARTSELLE

April 23 Benefit Dinner & Silent Auction Hartselle Fine Arts Center will hold the Annual Benefit Dinner & Silent Auction Fundraiser.

We want to hear from you!

Tell us what you like. Suggest improvements.

Submit story ideas and your photos.

HOW TO REACH US

Email: editor@hartselleliving.com

Seth lives life to the fullest Not letting his disease stop him

Inside this edition: A mission field in Talladega Eli’s wish is to be a fireman Vol. 6, Issue 2

8 • Hartselle Living

Hartselle Living • 1

Mail: Hartselle Living c/o Hartselle Enquirer PO Box 929 Hartselle, AL 35640 In person: Hartselle Living c/o Hartselle Enquirer 407 Chestnut St. NW Hartselle, AL 35640 Where in the World is Hartselle Living?:

Travel with Hartselle Living!

Snap a photo of yourself anywhere in the world holding a copy of Hartselle Living and submit by email, by mail or in person. Don’t forget to let us know where in the world you were!

May 20 Relay for Life Hartselle Relay for Life will take place at J.P. Cain Stadium.

May 21 Hall of Fame Banquet First annual Hartselle Educators Hall of Fame Banquet. Location to be announced at a later date.

May 23 Graduation Hartselle High School will hold graduation ceremonies at J.P. Cain Stadium for the Class of 2016.

Sept. 10 Zombie Chase Hartselle Lions Club will host the second annual Zombie Chase.

9 • Hartselle Living

Sept. 17 Hartselle Half Marathon Hartselle Kiwanis will hold the fourth annual Hartselle Half Marathon

Sept. 17 Depot Days Festival Hartselle Area Chamber of Commerce will host the 36th Annual Depot Days Festival.

A mission field in Talladega Ministering to thousands while at the race STORY & PHOTOS BY RANDY GARRISON

F

or most, Talladega brings to mind cars going around a track at over 200 miles per hour, lots of beer drinking and maybe even a few other unsavory activities. But to others, the opportunity to share Jesus with race fans is what first comes to mind.

Alabama Raceway Ministries, sponsored by the Southern Baptist Association, will set up eight different campsites at each Talladega Super Speedway in May and October. The mission is to serve the fans

10 • Hartselle Living

and workers and tell people about Jesus.

The Morgan Baptist Association sponsors a group from North Alabama. This group is assigned to the infield at the speedway. Three associations make up one campsite, and the infield site includes Morgan, Madison and Franklin counties.

Approximately 30 members of the Morgan group go to different races, including Mike and Virginia Alexander, who have been working with this group for more than 12 years.

Virginia got started with

Raceway Ministries while serving with Baptist Student Ministries at Calhoun Community College. The group was looking for a spring mission trip and became involved with the race ministry. Some of the students who were involved then now have families of their own and are still involved with this ministry.

Virginia serves as church and community ministries director for the Morgan Baptist Association, and Mike is the associate director.

When they go to Tal-

ladega twice each year, there are more than 250,000 people on race weekends – more people than in some cites.

The group arrives on Friday and sets up the campsite. Group members begin their work by handing out packets to the campers and workers, which have freebies inside, including soap and shampoo. They also offer free firewood to those spending the weekend in the infield. They hand out race guides provided by NASCAR to the fans. The group also cooks at the site

for their workers.

The group will minister to thousands over the threeday weekend.

The Raceway Ministry group also holds activities during the weekend for children and adults attending the races, like a pinewood derby race, corn hole tournament and crafts.

Virginia said her group witnesses to the fans and workers when they come to the tents or activities, sharing the gospel as often as the opportunity arises. Twelve people were saved in 2015 during the two weekends. Three were saved at the children’s activities, and one was saved at the corn hole tournament.

The groups work regardless of the weather, be it rain, sun, cold or heat.

The group holds a worship service Sunday for the race fans, as well. A couple from Louisiana will bring the message at the spring race. The service includes prayer, music, drama, the message and a benediction.

Virginia offered a few examples of how this ministry has shared the gospel with those attending the race. For instance, there was a group of military race fans along with a chaplain camping in a tent. Their firewood had gotten wet, and they did not have dry wood. The Raceway group unloaded dry wood at the tent and left a brochure.

The chaplain later sent a letter thanking the ministry group for the wood. He 11 • Hartselle Living

explained in the letter that he had been witnessing to his group, telling them God would provide for them.

When Raceway provided the dry wood, they all knew God had provided for them in a big way.

Another success story included a race fan family that was camping on the infield that came to a corn hole tournament and won first place. The couple was invited to the worship service, but only one person came. At the next race six months later, the entire family came to the worship service and also participated in other activities sponsored by the ministry.

By the third race weekend, they were helping out and even brought other camping friends. The family has now joined Raceway Ministries and even stays with the ministry group at Shocco Baptist Lodge during race weekends. They are faithful in church attendance at their home, as well. “We water the seeds the Holy Spirit plants,” Virginia said.

Another success story involved a child with special needs who saw the trophies for the winners and wanted one. A camping neighbor told the child he would win a trophy for him. As the tournament wound down to just four teams, the man who promised the child a trophy challenged the other teams to give the child the trophy if they won. The ABOVE: Raceway Ministries volunteers hand out race information, and lead music during the worship service. competition heated up, and the first place winner was

the man who promised the child a trophy. The second place winner also gave up his trophy to the child as well. The child’s family always attends the worship services.

“Many of the race fans have been attending the

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worship services and other activities for many years and have become like family,” Virginia said.

This might not be what you would expect to find at the infield of Talladega on race weekend. But true to His word: “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am with them.” Matthew 18:20.

A Cornhole Tournament is always one of the high points of the race weekend. Winners show off trophies they won during recent tournaments.

The young man pictured below was honored to receive both the first and second place trophies after being promised by his camping neighbor that a trophy would be one for him. The competition is pretty heated during each race weekend. Bragging rights and trophies are at stake.

13 • Hartselle Living

14 • Hartselle Living

Seth lives life to the fullest Not letting his disease stop him

STORY AND PHOTOS BY RANDY GARRISON

W

hen seeing Seth Ballew for the first time, the first thought many might have is that the Hartselle High School senior is a cancer victim.

Ballew does not have cancer but instead suffers from an autoimmune skin disease known as alopecia areata, which causes hair loss on the scalp and other places on the body.

He was first diagnosed with this disease in the fifth grade. Suffering from eczema since he was born, and being allergic to almost everything outside, he was being treated for a skin infection when he started losing patches of hair on his head.

After the diagnosis he was treated with high doses of steroids and even had injections in his head.

The disease went into remission, and the hair loss stopped. Ballew said no one knew about his disease in fifth grade.

There were side effects, however, from the treatments, including weight gain and muscle loss because of the heavy doses of steroids. By his own determination, he regained his strength, lost 30 pounds and played league and school basketball and baseball. He continued to play sports through junior high school.

During his freshmen year, Ballew had an injury to his pitching arm that would require surgery in order to continue playing as a pitcher and an infielder.

Doctors warned Ballew and his parents that the anesthesia and the trauma of surgery could cause the alopecia areata to come out of remission. He was also told the disease could return even worse than what he had suffered previously.

After talking with doctors and his parents about what could happen by going through the surgery, and after much prayer, Ballew decided he did not want to give up baseball. He knew what could happen and decided he would deal with the situation if it returned. He also felt he would regret his decision if he gave up baseball and did not have the surgery.

He had the surgery, and a few months later, his hair began to fall out. Steroids and injections began again to treat the disease. He was spending hours each week at a dermatologist office.

The hair loss slowed but didn’t stop. Unlike when Seth Ballew during his early high school years played on the basketball team. Seth he was in fifth grade, people now had begun to no- poses for a photographer for his senior portraits.

15 • Hartselle Living

tice something was happening. By the time tenth grade rolled around, he was having a difficult time keeping the hair loss a secret.

Ballew made the decision during Christmas break to take control of the situation.

His hair loss was at a point he could not longer hide it, and he made the decision to shave the remaining hair from his head. “My family was a huge support in my decision to shave off the rest,” Ballew mentioned.

When he returned to school, he explained his disease to his friends, and they asked if he was OK. People were helpful by checking on him and showing concern for his situation. This caring and concern made Ballew’s experience with this alopecia areata different from most; many are bullied because of their appearance while dealing with the disease.

However, Ballew also continued to experience the side effects of the treatments. During the eleventh grade it was decided the treatments would be tapered off. He was again gaining weight and suffered from lower energy levels because of the steroid treatments.

During this time, he lost all of the hair on his body, including eyebrows, lashes and even nasal hair – the latter of which caused his allergies and infections to increase, without having nasal hair to filter out anything harmful he was breathing in.

Not only was he dealing with the physical aspect of the disease, the psychological affects took their toil as well. Ballew said many 16 • Hartselle Living

with alopecia areata become reclusive, not wanting to be seen in public. The emotional side affects many people more than the physical.

Some who have the disease feel alone and isolated and experience grief and loss. They live in fear of others finding out; they are embarrassed, feel sad and become depressed.

But through all of this, Ballew never asked, “Why me?” He is strong in his faith and said he knows there was a reason this happened to him. He said he believes God will use his situation to helps others.

Ballew said he knows he has to stay positive. He often mentions the support of his family and friends, which enabled him to escape many of the psychological problems associated with the disease.

The treatments did not seem to be bringing the disease into remission – this was another reason to taper off the drugs. Effective treatment should have been stopping the hair loss, which was not the case; to make things worse, the treatment itself was causing fatigue and weight gain. So treatments continue to be tapered off for Ballew.

Ballew said he has always thought he would go into the medical field because he loves science. After living with alopecia areata, he has decided to become a dermatologist and plans to help others with this disease, as well.

Ballew has definitely not let this disease control him or even slow him down.

He continues to play base-

ball and holds a 4.35 grade point average while taking the most rigorous of course work. He scored a 34 on the ACT test and is ranked second in the HHS Class of 2016. He plans to attend the University of Alabama in fall 2016.

He played basketball in ninth and tenth grade. He is also an ambassador for the school, vice president of the Latin Club and Who’s Who in the senior class. In addition to his roles in school and clubs, he is active in First United Methodist Church and in the Hartselle community.

Ballew is open about his disease and even acts as a mentor to a younger student who is suffering from the same thing. This young man was not as lucky as Ballew and has experienced bullying from others at school.

He has not lost all of his hair but does have patches of hair missing that are hard to conceal.

Eczema continues to plague Ballew, especially since he is coming off the steroids, and his immune system is weak. He does not give into the disease but continues to live his life in the fullest manner he can.

He was recently honored by receiving the Class 6A Region 8 Bryant-Jordan Student Achievement Award. This award is sponsored by the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in conjunction with the Alabama High School Athletic Association and is an achievement award for the student athlete who achieves beyond his ability both academically and athletically, 17 • Hartselle Living

or overcomes obstacles to achieve success. Hartselle High Principal Jeff Hyche nominated Ballew for the award for 2016. In his recommendation letter, Hyche explained what Ballew has been through during his lifetime. He said what he most admires about Ballew is, through all of this ordeal, his determination not to let alopecia areata define who he is. Hyche said Ballew is one of the finest young men he has ever worked with.

Being the Region 8 winner, Ballew was awarded $2,500. He will now compete with eight other region winners to be the state winner April 11. As a regional winner, he also qualified to interview for scholarships specifically for students in Alabama who will be going to medical school. Ballew plans to attend either UAB or Vanderbilt for dermatology school.

One could not help but be impressed, listening to this young man share his story.

While many would have withdrawn into a dark hole to escape the public eye, Ballew lives his life openly.

He is involved in more academic and extracurricular activities than some who have no health issues at all.

His faith in God is so evident in his testimony, and he makes a difference to all he comes in contact with.

His attitude and strong convictions are infectious.

Ballew said male pattern baldness runs in his family, and he might research a potential correlation between this and alopecia areata.

Perhaps he will be the one who finds a cure for both.

Eli’s wish is to be a fireman A wish-experience can be a lifechanger STORY AND PHOTOS BY RANDY GARRISON

18 • Hartselle Living

E

li Davis looks like any other 4-year-old little boy. He is active and full of energy, with a head full of blond hair. With his glasses, he looks like a little scientist. Eli lives in Hartselle and attends Pre-K at Barkley Bridge, in Ms. Ellis’s class.

Eli is the son of Lauren Alvey and Wesley Davis. He has two brothers, Weston and Jace, and one sister Trinity.

But when he was 2 years old, things were not looking so great for this little boy.

Eli was having problems urinating, so Lauren took him to the doctor. The doctors at Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children found a mass during a scan, and Eli was referred to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis.

He was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a soft tissue cancer. This type of cancer is a sarcoma – a cancer of connective tissues – and the cancer cells are thought to arise from skeletal muscle progenitors, similar to stem cells, which develop into a specific type of cell. The cancer was stage two when it was diagnosed.

This type of cancer is rare, but when it does occur, it is most common in children 1-5 years old and more common in boys than girls. Eli had 14 months of chemotherapy and eight weeks of radiation.

Eli is now in remission; he’s been finished with treatments for eight months and cancer-free for a year. According to his mother, Eli has a good prognosis for a healthy life. He has to have check-ups every three months.

Eli was referred to Make-A-Wish of Alabama. His wish? To be a fireman.

According to Pam Holmes and Julianna Hallman with Make-A-Wish of Alabama, Eli was their first “to be” wish. Most children want to go to Disney World or take some other type of trip, they said.

The Make-A-Wish organization grants the wishes of children diagnosed with life-threatening conditions. Coordinators with Make-A-Wish believe a wish-experience can be a life-changer.

Eli was told in December that his wish was officially going to come true. Eli began his wish-fulfillment at Macy’s at Riverchase Galleria in Hoover.

He thought he was going to Macy’s to mail a letter to Santa, but while there he saw Sparky, the Hoover Fire Department’s mascot, running through the store.

Firefighters were pretending to look for Sparky and asked Eli if he would help them search.

Eli was led outside, where Macy’s employees, Chi Omega sorority sisters, community supporters and Make-A Wish staff lined a red carpet leading to a fire truck, and Hoover Fire Chief John Wingate revealed to Eli that he would get his wish to be a firefighter.

Hoover Fire Department presented Eli was a custom-fitted suit, with his name on the back. Eli then was allowed to complete smoke drills in a safety trailer and even extinguish a live fire. He was also taken for a spin around the parking lot in the fire truck.

Feb. 13, Eli was able to experience more firefighting when he visited the Hartselle Fire Depart19 • Hartselle Living

Eli poses with his Dad Wesley Davis and with Hartselle Fire & Rescue’s Zach McGee working the fire hose.

ment. Eli arrived at Station Two and was given a ride in one of the city’s fire trucks. The truck brought Eli to Station One, where he went through more firefighting jobs with Hartselle firefighters, who showed him many of the training skills they have to work on to be firemen. Eli was shown how to properly use a fire extinguisher and practiced putting out fires on a simulator. He was also trained in unrolling a fire hose. Eli worked his way through a simulated attic, having to climb on rafters, as a fireman would need to do in an actual attic. Eli also practiced with the dummy used by the firefighters to simulate moving survivors out of harm’s way in a fire situation.

Hartselle Fire & Rescue officers showed Eli how to hook up a fire hose, and one of his favorite activities was spraying water from one of the fire hoses. His parents said Eli enjoyed his time

20 • Hartselle Living

at Hartselle Station One and caught on very quickly to all of the tasks he was put through. He was also able to spend time climbing aboard the fire truck inside of Station One. Make-A-Wish of Alabama provided Eli and his family with a pizza lunch during his time Saturday, as well.

Fire Chief Daryl Fox presented Eli with an official Hartselle Fire & Rescue shirt, in his size, and made him an honorary firemen, complete with a badge for his fireman suit.

Eli seemed to enjoy his morning and his wish to be a fireman, and Hartselle Fire & Rescue officers made sure he had a good time.

According to Lauren, Eli’s two dreams in life are to be a superhero and a fireman. One of his dreams came true Saturday in Hartselle.

Eli enjoys his day at the Hartselle Fire Deparment. He is presented an official Hartselle Fire & Rescue shirt by Hartselle Fire Chief Daryl Fox.

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FOOD

Thoughts on pasta Pasta is very versatile with lots of variations INTRO BY RANDY GARRISON

M

ost of us probably remember out first taste of pasta being from a can of Chef Boyardee spaghetti and meatballs or ravioli. I can still remember how both of my boys looked as they sat in their high chair with spaghetti sauce covering everywhere but their mouth. But they did enjoy being able to feed themselves with this fun food.

As we grow older our taste for pasta perhaps does change. We find there are many variations on this food staple.

Not only are different types of pasta available, but the sauces and pasta recipes are almost endless.

However, one thing still remains the same. No matter how careful I try to be, I usually wind up with some sauce on my shirt, and unfortunately one usually has on a white shirt when eating pasta. This must be some type of cosmic karma that causes pasta sauce to be attracted to white shirts.

But pasta is one of those foods that seem to bring on good feelings and happy thoughts. What could be a better than dipping a bread stick into a simmering pot of sauce? Of course if you are on a low carb diet this might not be the best ideas for you. But regardless of our eating habits pasta remains one of the favorite of foods, if you do not believe me, look at the aisle at the grocery store, between sauces and pasta most take up at least half an aisle.

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Pasta Salad

dressing over salad; toss and refrigerate overnight.

Courtesy of Allrecipes.com 1 pound tri-colored spiral pasta 6 tablespoons salad seasoning mix 1 (16 ounce) bottle Italian-style salad dressing 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced 1 green bell pepper, chopped 1 red bell pepper, diced 1/2 yellow bell pepper, chopped 1 (2.25 ounce) can black olives, chopped In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta until al dente, rinse under cold water and drain.

Whisk together the salad spice mix and Italian dressing.

In a salad bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers and olives. Pour

Pecos Pasta

Courtesy of Allrecipes.com 4 ounces macaroni 1 tablespoon butter 1 green bell pepper, chopped 1 onion, chopped 1 (8.75 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained 1 (15 ounce) can chili with beans 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper In a large pot of boiling salted water cook macaroni past until al dente. Drain well.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet melt the butter or margarine and add chopped green bell pepper and chopped onion. Cook vegetables until tender. Add chili beans, corn, salt and pepper. Simmer on low heat for 5 min-

utes. Stir in cooked and drained macaroni.

Cover and cook on low 5 minutes.

Serve warm.

Pasta Carcione

Courtesy of Allrecipes.com 10 ounces spinach, rinsed 1 (16 ounce) package bow tie pasta 1/4 cup olive oil salt and pepper to taste 2 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, quartered 8 ounces crumbled goat cheese Remove stems from spinach and stack leaves together; chop thin longer strips instead of square chops and set aside.

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain and place in a large bowl.

Drizzle olive oil over pasta and add salt and pepper to taste, spinach and tomatoes; gently toss.

Add goat cheese and serve warm or room temperature.

Onion Pasta

Courtesy of Allrecipes.com 1/2 cup olive oil 4 tablespoons butter 5 onions, thinly sliced 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 pinch ground black pepper 1 cup water 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon 1 pound uncooked pasta, cooked according to package directions In a large skillet place oil, butter and onions and cook until golden brown.

Add basil, pepper, water and bouillon and cook on low heat for 10 minutes. Add onion mixture to cooked pasta, sprinkle with cheese, toss and serve.

Mexican Pasta

Courtesy of Allrecipes.com 1/2 pound seashell pasta 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 onions, chopped 1 green bell pepper, chopped 1/2 cup sweet corn kernels 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained 1 (14.5 ounce) can peeled and diced tomatoes

23 • Hartselle Living

1/4 cup salsa 1/4 cup sliced black olives 1 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning mix salt and pepper to taste Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.

While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Cook onions and pepper in oil until lightly browned, 10

PASTA continued on page 24

PASTA, from 23

minutes. Stir in corn and heat through. Stir in black beans, tomatoes, salsa, olives, taco seasoning and salt and pepper and cook until thoroughly heated, 5 minutes.

Toss sauce with cooked pasta and serve.

Chocolate Lovers Fettuccine a la Mode Courtesy of Allrecipes.com 10 ounces chocolate fettuccine 1/4 teaspoon canola oil 1/2 cup whipped cream 1 tablespoon white sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

24 • Hartselle Living

1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder 2 cups vanilla ice cream, divided 1/2 cup chocolate ice cream topping Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil; cook the chocolate fettuccine until tender but not mushy, about 2 1/2 minutes. Drain the pasta and immediately place into a large bowl filled with ice water. Allow to stand until chilled, about 5 minutes. rain the pasta again and toss with canola oil in a bowl to lightly coat. Refrigerate until fully chilled, at least 15 minutes.

Lightly whisk the whipped cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder together in a small bowl until thoroughly combined.

To make the desserts, divide the chocolate fettuccine between 4 dessert plates.

Spoon a dollop of chocolate whipped cream on the fettuccine on each plate.

Place 1/2 cup of vanilla ice cream onto the whipped cream.

Spoon 2 tablespoons chocolate topping onto each dessert to serve.

Antipasto Pasta Salad Courtesy of Allrecipes.com 1 pound seashell pasta 1/4 pound Genoa salami, chopped 1/4 pound pepperoni sausage, chopped

1/2 pound Asiago cheese, diced 1 (6 ounce) can black olives, drained and chopped 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 green bell pepper, chopped 3 tomatoes, chopped 1 (.7 ounce) package dry Italian-style salad dressing mix 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons dried oregano 1 tablespoon dried parsley 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese salt and ground black pepper to taste Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, and cool under cold water.

In a large bowl, combine the pasta, salami, pepperoni, Asiago cheese, black olives, red bell pepper, green bell pepper and tomatoes. Stir in the envelope of dressing mix. Cover, and refrigerate for at least one hour.

To prepare the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, parsley, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Just before serving, pour dressing over the salad, and mix well.

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OUT & ABOUT 1

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1-College students Katy Beth Bole, Katie Glasgow, HHS Counselor Dana Gladden and student Beth Ann Compton at the Alumni Breakfast. 2-College Students Christina Holmes, Robbie Fields and Robert Summerford enjoy the college breakfast. 3- MCBOE honors Paula Owens teacher, Kathleen Larson teacher and Darlene Jewellson CNP manager as their teachers and support person of the year. 4- College Students Shelby Harris, Sarah Ellen Battles, Madelyn Sittason and Alice Ann Glasgow pose at the college breakfast. 5- F.E. Burleson Principal Debbie Queen poses after her school was named a CLAS Banner School.

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1-James Horner and Micayla Atkins enjoy a slow dance at the Snowflake Ball. 2-Dan Bennich enjoys a dance with daughter Emma at the Les Amies Formal. 3-Larry Byrd and Grace McCarley enjoy at slow dance at the Snowflake Ball.

4-James Horner cuts a rug during the Snowflake Ball. 5-Hartselle Intermediate students help principal Gaylon Parker celebrate his 5oth birthday. 6-Earon Sheets and Beth Rabb work with HJHS students on the “One Word” project. 7-Hailey Copeland and Sloan Sittason enjoy the evening at the Snowflake Ball.

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OUT AND ABOUT 1

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1-Hartselle Board of Education members Randy Sparkman, Jennifer Sittason, Venita Jones, Dr. James Joy along with superintendent Dr. Vic Wilson pose with the Dr. Seus’ hats given them by Crestline students.

2-Jim Aklin, Dr. Vic Wilson and Robert Dotson at the Morgan County Cattlemen’s Banquet.

3-Morgan County Superintendent Bill Hopkins, Jr. teaches a world history class at Lacey’s Spring School. 4-Kathleen Lawson shows her excitement after being names MCBOE Secondary Teacher of the Year. 5-Harrison Haynes and Asher Gipner recently achieved Eagle Scout honor.

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Marketplace Hartselle Living • 256.332.1881

Drivers: Home Nightly.

Excellent Money. Full Benefit Package. New Equipment. Family Work Environment.

CDL-A 1yrs exp.

Jay: 256-309-7520 Mon-Fri 8-5 JOBS IN ALABAMA!!

AIDT assists employers throughout AL by identifying qualified applicants by recruitment, screening & training services. V isit www.aidt.edu/jobs for latest jobs & training!

Caregivers & Nurses ALWAYS THERE IN-HOME CARE Immediate need, Flexible hours, Benefits available.

Call for more information 256-539-1400 www.alwaysthereinc.com American Proteins, Inc. Hiring Drivers Home Daily, Great benefits package (including: health/ dental/ vision insurance), paid vacation and holidays, quarterly safety bonus, 401K retirement plan.

Need Class A CDL with tanker endorsement, one year verifiable driving experience.

Contact Jamie Sewell at 256-970-6133 or Ronnie Demonia 256-9706109 EOE Amrec Services For ALL your Metal Recycling Needs!

Located at 2800 Hwy 31 SW, Hartselle, or call 256-773-2584 ANN’S ALTERATIONS 600 Limestone Street, Suite #6 Hartselle, AL 256-773-4213 CAGLE SOD FARM 419 Hybrid Bermuda $1.35 per square yard Meyers Zoysia $2.50 per square yard Empire Zoysia $3.00 per square yard

29 • Hartselle Living

Delivery available 662-365-3152 www.caglesod.com CARRY TRANSIT Decatur, Alabama Now hiring DRIVERS * Good Pay * Excellent Benefits & Home Time * 18 Months OTR exp. * Class A CDL with Tanker Endorsement.

Apply on Line@ CarryTransit.com THE MEADOWS Luxury Apartments Ground floor patio apts., Upgraded Appliances, Ceramic Tile, Ceiling Fans, Individual Alarm Systems & More.

1540 Lawrence St. East, Russellville 256-398-8818 Soon The Mark Of The Beast Will Be Enforced!

Free book & bible study!

In God We Trust Ministries P.O. Box 171 Samantha, AL 35482 (205)339-4837 Looking for a home?

Need help with financing?

Call your neighbors down the street at Davis Realty.

We can help you get a great rate!

Call Willodean 256-7625671 Davis Realty & Assoc. Inc. 115 N. Jackson Ave., Russellville, AL 256-332-9920 Dunn Building Company has immediate openings in the Decatur area for Trackhoe and Backhoe Operators, Form Carpenters, Concrete Finishers, Rodbusters and Laborers. Must have minimum 3 years experience and be able to pass a drug test.

Benefits included BCBS insurance, Aetna Life and Disability insurances, Vacation, Holidays and 401k. Download an application from: www. dunnbuildingcompany. com and fax to 205-5100301 or email to sprice@

dunnbuildingcompany.com EOE M/F/Disabled/Veterans Now Hiring!

Production Workers-CDL Class A or B Drivers-Food Service-General LaborHVAC-Machine OperatorsForklift OperatorsCustodians-Accounting Clerk: $7.25 - $17.00 Decatur: 256-351-1183 Cullman: 256-739-2024 Huntsville: 256-532-0599 Concert Promotions!

Weekly Pay! Hiring Fulltime & Part-time Sales & Clerical, Management & Hourly Employees.

Requires Positive Attitude, Respectful Personality. NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED 256964-7691 Call Today/Start Tomorrow!

First South Farm Credit Poultry House Financing for: • New Construction • Refinancing farms • Expansion • Updating facilities Muscle Shoals 256-381-0721, Moulton 256-974-1124 firstsouthpoultry.com Equal Housing Lender

Welder Training Coming Soon!

Short Term Licensing Call for Details 866-432-0430 ESDschool. com Kioti CK30 HST 4x4, 156 hours, R4 tires, w/ Kioti loader and quick-attach bucket: $13,900 John Deere 4300 12x12 Shuttle Shift, R4 tires w/ John Deere loader bucket: $12,900 256-565-8695 (no txt) Greenbush Logistics, Inc. has immediate Career Opportunities for Local, Dedicated Class A Professional Drivers Tuscumbia, AL. Home most nights & off weekends/ holidays. Late model trucks. Competitive pay.

SIGN-ON BONUS. Very

little tarping. Extra stop pay. Per diem. Multiple incentive programs-fuel/ idle/safety. Comprehensive benefits – major medical/ dental/vision/401K/profit sharing/driver referral fee. Must be at least 23 yrs. Old, have lass A CDL/ clean driving record/2 yrs.

Verifiable commercial big rig experience/ flatbed experience given preference/No felonies/ No DUI/DWI in past 10 yrs. THIS IS A CAREER TO RETIRE FROM…NOT JUST A JOB! To apply go to www.greenbushlogistics. com Or call (866)338-7213 HOMES FOR SALE Financing Available (wac) Low Down Payments Sheffield, Hackleburg, Town Creek, Courtland, Moulton & Falkville Call Matt 1-855-847-6808 •Mixed hay $5.00 per bale •$4.50 per bale for 100+bales Located In West Point Call 256-734-4202 We Buy Unwanted Appliances!

We Pick Up Free Of Charge!

We also do appliance repair and consignment.

Also Riding Lawn Mowers!

Hallmark Appliance Repair 256-773-1192 Come Home to Holiday Plaza Apartments (Behind Foodland) Equal Housing Opportunity 256-332-2960 A wonderful opportunity is waiting for you. Life is too short for the wrong job. Get a job that not only allows you to help other but makes you feel great aboutdoing it. We are looking for YOU! Help seniors in their own homes with simple things around the house and also with their personal needs. Flexible hours and ongoing training

opportunities plus take advantage of our great benefits we have to offer.

2 BONUS OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY UPON HIRE! Apply today at: www.homeinstead. com/250 or call 256-883-3080.

Maintenance Staff Wanted Huntsville Jetplex area.

Good pay. Regular hours.

Benefits. Mail resume to Charlene Graham, 2903 Wall Triana Hwy, Suite 8, Huntsville, AL 35824 or fax to 256-461-7427 KDC Properties, Inc. 256-355-9090 P.O. Box 987 Decatur, AL 35602 kdcpropertiesinc.com J. Wesley Cain, AL #286; TN #6499 THE MORTGAGE OUTLET, INC. •Offering Purchase/ Refinances w/CREDIT SCORES 580+ •100% CashOut & Purchase Programs •FHA Streamline–No Appraisal/Closing Cost •FHA/CONVENTIONAL/ USDA/VA Call Glenda Popwell 205-755-4577 or 1-800-365-9016 GJP@moneyoutlet.com NMLS #7371/AL#50594 We Buy ATVs Motorcycles & Utility Vehicles Motorsports Superstore 888-880-2277 Hamilton, AL SPRING CLEAN-UP Need a Dumpster?

Call 205-893-7223 HUGHES NET • Gen4 High-Speed Satellite Internet Is Available Where You Live!

FREE Standard Installation Limited Time Offer!

Ask about FREE router!

Call 800-266-4409 www.pbsinternet.com

Hartselle Living • 29

PARTING THOUGHTS

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)

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WHO AM I? #ImADecaturMorganBaby

I was the first baby born at Decatur Morgan Hospital on August 3rd, 1916 Miss Decatur High School 1932 Loyal Decatur Resident

PARKWAY CAMPUS

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Martha Davidson

Call by and and let let us us Call or or come come by show your show you you how how Important Important your Dental all of of us us Dental Health is to all

Seatedl-r: l-r:Ally AllySummerford, Summerford, Andrea Brasher, Kim Seated Kim Parker Parkerand andKelsey KelseyLott.

Lott.

Standingl-r: l-r:Teresa TeresaMcNutt, McNutt, Brandy Brandy Widner, Widner, Dr. Chris Widner, Standing Widner, Leslie LeslieWolf Wolfand andMarla MarlaWallace Wallace

Providers for for BCBS, BCBS, Delta Dental & Providers & Southland/PEEHIP Southland/PEEHIP

Widner Family Family Widner

DENTISTRY DENTISTRY COSMETIC&&GENERAL GENERALCARE CARE COSMETIC 509 W. Main St., Hartselle 509 W. Main St., Hartselle

widnerdentistry.com 256-773-7900 •• widnerdentistry.com 256-773-7900 32 • Hartselle Living

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