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Thursday • November 27, 2014 • Issue #14
Meeting your Editor: The Two Sides of James (JW) Webster By Elsa Rutherford
To be factual, James Webster is only one man. But there are definitely two people living inside him. I’m going to tell you about the first James Webster I met. To make it even more complicated, first opinions only scratch the surface when you’re dealing with James Webster, Editor-in-Chief of the Nifty Pickle, the local newspaper covering all of Marshall County. He’s middle-aged, a big, tall, broad shouldered man with a stubble of beard who tends to favor wearing a red fleece parka. He may resemble a bear of a man, but the truth is he’s a big teddy bear. Of course I didn’t know that when I first met him. I knew only that this big man seemed friendly and easy to talk to. And trusting. He didn’t ask me for a resume, references, or any samples of my work. He simply asked me to tell him about my work and career. As I talked, he listened. Listened in a way that made me know he was hearing every word I said. When I stopped talking, he said, “You are the person I need.” That was it, just like that; I was hired on the spot. Since Webster is my boss, I could easily tell you he is the greatest man I know, bar none. But then, you wouldn’t trust anything else I said, and I’d lose you as a reader and that is the last thing a writer ever wants to do. So, I’m going to be as candid as I can be. To start, I have to say I wondered if this
man was really on the level. Does he actually hire people without checking backgrounds? Does he trust people and believe his honesty will be reciprocated in turn? The simple answer is: yes, he does. Have I seen people disappoint him and let him down? Yes, I have. Too many people today subscribe to the I’ll-tell-you-what-you-wantto-hear-and-do-as-I-please attitude. Nevertheless, James Webster does not allow that to change his strategy about dealing with people, but he seems to perpetually believe there’s more honesty in people than dishonesty. It’s as if he feels that if he gives up on others he’ll no longer be true to himself. I ask him where this trust comes from. A grin inches slowly across his face. “I had good parents. A good childhood. I was raised to trust people.” Today, his mother lives in Odenville and he has only the warmest memories of his years growing up. His parents must have also taught him to be kind and thoughtful and generous too because I’ve never seen anything different from him. On my word as a journalist, I promise it’s true. Webster was born In Opelika, Alabama, and soon afterward his family moved to the Birmingham area. His interest in newspapers began when he was in the fourth Continued on Page 6
What Happened To The Nifty Pickle Last Week?
You probably noticed that we did not publish a Nifty Pickle last week for Thursday, November 20, 2014. We apologize for the inconvenience and we really appreciated the concern from our readers. We received several calls and emails asking “Where’s the Nifty Pickle?” Our main computer crashed on us earlier in the week (Blue Screen) and I didn’t have time to get my files moved over to the other computer. Hopefully, now all is well! We appreciate your understanding.
Do You Have An Idea For A Story That You Would Like To See In The Nifty Pickle? If So, Please Call 256-673-8190 or send an email to james@niftypickle.com.
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U.S. Troops Exposed to Chemical Weapons The pictures of blistered skin and the photocopies of the medical records make it clear: Service personnel in Iraq were exposed to chemical weapons -- nerve agent Sarin or mustard blister gas. It wasn’t just one or two broken and leaking canisters that were uncovered. Photos show dozens, even hundreds, of canisters in multiple caches. Depending on which version of the story you read, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel either did or didn’t recently order medical examinations of those soldiers who’d been exposed to those chemical-warfare agents. He asked that the medical treatment they received be examined. A Department of Veterans Affairs press release dated 2000 says that a former acting VA secretary had been “helping secure expanded benefits for veterans who were prisoners of war, or who were exposed to Agent Orange, radiation or mustard gas.” A 2005 press release says that the VA “announced a national outreach campaign to locate veterans who were exposed to mustard gas,” but goes on to say that “most of these veterans participated in chemical testing programs during World War II.” Nothing about what was being found in Iraq. Somewhere between 2000 and 2005, troops in Iraq unearthed caches of chemicals -- and were injured. As late as 2008, soldiers reported contact with the chemicals. Some were denied decontamination. Some were accused of malingering. A few were given ineffective creams. A few were hustled out for care; most weren’t. Some veterans who handled those canisters still have symptoms that were not taken care of at the time, especially breathing problems. If you were there, make an appointment to be checked out. To read the whole story, go online to NYTimes.com and search for “Troops to Be Checked for Chemical Exposure in Iraq.” Freddy Groves regrets that he cannot personally answer reader questions, but will incorporate them into his column whenever possible. Send email to columnreply2@gmail.com. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.
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3 Nifty Pickle Published Weekly by Nifty Pickle, Inc. 7032 US Hwy 431 Albertville, Alabama 35950
256-673-8190
The publisher, Nifty Pickle, Inc., has no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without consent of the publisher. The Publisher will not be liable for any error in display advertisement to a greater extent that the cost of the line space occupied in the advertisement. The advertiser and/or agency agree to protect, indemnify and hold harmless this publication, and it’s publisher, Nifty Pickle, against any and all liability, loss and expense (including attorney fees) arising out of the publication of the advertisers advertisement.
Letter To The Editor:
We encourage letters to the editor but we ask that certain guidelines be followed: Letters may be typed or handwritten, and legible. Letters must be signed along with a telephone number and address. Phone numbers and addresses will only be used for verification and will NOT be published. Letters should not exceed 250 words. The Nifty Pickle reserves the right to refuse to print or, at it’s discretion, may edit any letter. The basic content of the letter will not be altered. All letters must be received by Monday at Noon and should be sent to Nifty Pickle • 7032 US Hwy 431, Albertville AL 35950 or emailed to editor@niftypickle.com.
ENJOY!
The Rules Are Simple! This contest is for children 3 - 12 years of age. Please submit your entry no later than December 8th, 2014. The winners (one boy and one girl) will be announced on our website, www.niftypickle.com, and in the next issue of the Nifty Pickle. You can mail your entry to Nifty Pickle, 7032 US Hwy 431 • Albertville, Alabama 35950. Please include your name, phone number or email address so we can contact you if you are the winner. Your phone number or email address will never be shared with anyone. If you are one of the lucky winners, we will let you know where to pick up your prize.
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ALBERTVILLE
ALBERTVILLE Rose Road Church of God 804 Rose Road Albertville, Alabama 35950 256-891-7723
Boaz Church of God 115 McGee Street Boaz, Alabama 35957 (256) 593-3689
First United Methodist Church 539 Gunter Avenue Guntersville, Alabama 35976 (256) 582-2001
Corbinville Methodist Church Hwy 75 N Albertville, Alabama
Solid Rock Church 2073 Section Line Road Albertville, Alabama 35950 256-891-1818
Crestview Church of Christ 2001 US Hwy 431 Boaz, Alabama 35957 (256) 593-7326
Guntersville Church of Christ 800 Gunter Avenue Guntersville, ---Alabama 35976 (256) 582-2494
Fairview United Methodist Church 1750 Hustleville Road Albertville, Alabama 35950 (256) 891-1719
The Potter’s House 210 Sand Mt Dr. Albertville, AL 35950 256-298-2378
First Baptist Church 225 S. Main Street Boaz, Alabama 35957 (256) 593-8580
Mount Zion Missionary Baptist 1444 Carlisle Ave Guntersville, Alabama 35976 (256) 582-0181
All Saints’ Anglican Church 706 North Main Street Boaz, Alabama 35957
Mt. Zion Baptist Church 623 County Road 2 Boaz, Alabama 35957 (256) 561-3682
Rocky Branch Free Holiness Church Rocky Branch Drive Guntersville, Alabama 35976
First Baptist Church Albertville 309 East Main Street Albertville, Alabama 35950 (256) 878-2291
Belaire Baptist Church 1505 Oak Drive Boaz, Alabama 35957 (256) 593-8773
Sardis Baptist Church 1501 Church Street Boaz, Alabama 35957 (256) 593-7762
Mt. Calvary Baptist Church 201 Rose Road Albertville, Alabama 35950 (256) 878-6685
Beulah Baptist Church 1991 Beulah Road Boaz, Alabama 35957 256-878-1516
The Church at Lake Guntersville 4525 Wyeth Drive Guntersville, Alabama 35976 (256) 582-5312
First Baptist Church 1000 Gunter Ave Guntersville, Alabama 35976 (256) 582-5141
Victory Baptist Church 1644 O’ Brig Avenue Guntersville, Alabama 35976 (256) 582-5054
Albertville Baptist Church 302 Buchanan Road Albertville, Alabama 35950 (256) 878-3933
Corinth Baptist Church 4183 Rose Road Albertville, Alabama 35951 (256) 894-3400
BOAZ
Trust God! I don’t know about you but there have been times in my life where that phrase made me want to strangle the person telling it to me. I am sure if we were being totally transparent, we’ve all felt that way at one time or another. There are times in life when the darkness is so thick I can almost feel it. In those times, it’s hard to see the One walking out on the water in the middle of the night storm. Like the disciples, you may scream “it’s the devil” and want to run away from the One coming to your rescue. See, that’s the hard part, trusting God’s goodness in the middle of the storm. When nothing is going the way you think it should and it looks like you’re going down with the ship. If we can trust God in the middle of the storm, our peace will not fly away like a startled dove. There is no shame; this is not a guilt trip. We’ve all been there. How many times do we look back and realize what we thought was the end turned out to be a beautiful new beginning? The old saying “Hind sight is 20/20” is true. It’s a whole lot easier when we are standing on the other side of the storm. First off, because we realized we didn’t DIE! We made it through what we thought at the moment was going to kill us. That alone changes our perspective. But we also have gained a lot more information about
BOAZ
GUNTERSVILLE
GUNTERSVILLE
the situation. Of course, if we had known then that person was a lying thief we wouldn’t have trusted them. But we didn’t. So we acted on what we knew. We can’t be too hard on ourselves, it’s not our fault. They don’t call them con-men for nothing. I am using “lying thief” as an extreme example that we can all relate to. But how about the times it’s not so obvious, when other people walk out of our lives? God really struck me with something recently. Not every time someone leaves is it a bad thing. Sometimes they are more of a hindrance than a help to you fulfilling your purpose, your destiny. They gotta go so you can grow. Sometimes what seems like a total disaster is really the best thing that could have happened. I have more experience in this area then I have time to tell you. Without drawing a picture that might incriminate anyone in particular, let me just say I’ve been there. And without exception, with the help of God, I discovered it was the best thing that could have happened. Sometimes it took a little while to get there, but it all came out in the wash. So at the risk of being strangled, I am going to say, “Trust God”. He is working in your situation and when He’s done, it’s going to be good.
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Meeting your Editor: The Two Sides of James (JW) Webster Continued from Page 1 grade. “My parents bought me a comic book and I found an advertisement inside looking for boys to sell newspapers, so I signed up for the job.” He’d rush home from school every Thursday, hop on his bike and head to his mailbox to pick up a small package of Grit newspapers to deliver to his customers. They cost 25 cents per copy. If you’re too young to remember Grit, they were about the size of a slim Reader’s Digest magazine but the contents were more similar to The National Enquirer , not as brazen or bawdy but not necessarily more factual. They were quite popular, as you might guess, in an age long before social media. Webster says he always “loved reading,” and has continued the pursuit all his life. “Amazingly enough, I still have the books that I had to read in the 7th grade. My favorite, however, was the Hardy Boys series that my Grandmother got me hooked on.” A man with many business interests and talents, as a young adult, he worked as a Private Investigator for a couple of years, started his own Accounting and Bookkeeping firm (which he still operates today), and currently works with his brother, Donald Webster, providing IT services and custom programming for other companies. In 1993, his early love of newspapers drew him back to publishing and he launched a monthly publication called Crossroad Shopper’s Guide in Leeds, Alabama. A few years later, he also co-published a short-lived magazine called Weird Alabama. A man with a memory for details, he remembered seeing a shopper’s guide called Thrifty Nickle, so when he decided to move to Boaz and eventually open an antiques/variety-type store he decided it would be fun to do a play on words and came up with Nifty Pickle. He later opened other stores in Albertville. But he’d never discarded his idea of being an editor/publisher in the newspaper market. So when he decided to publish a local newspaper that would cover all of Marshall County, he decided it, too, would be called Nifty Pickle. It would be a positive, upbeat newspaper with highlights for readers of all ages plus, most importantly, locally-themed articles covering people, places and businesses in the entire area. Thus far, the newspaper is free to readers and has over 300 distribution locations. By almost any definition, it has been a success. “I get calls almost daily from readers who tell me just how much they appreciate, and enjoy reading the Nifty Pickle each and every week,” Webster says. “This job is very satisfying.” But that tells you only one side of James Webster. As I said in the beginning, there is another side. An even stronger, more determined side to this man. Webster has suffered from diabetes for 19 years,
along with other health issues, which has ultimately led to kidney failure. Knowing the inevitable was coming, in 2012, Webster’s doctor performed a procedure on him called a “fistula.” In simple terms, it meant tying together a vein and artery in preparation for the kidney dialysis which began in 2013. Webster receives dialysis, a several hours-long process three times each week at the Lakeview Dialysis Clinic, located near Marshall Medical North Hospital, between Guntersville and Arab. He undergoes this routine at night, called “nocturnal dialysis,” which seems to work better for some patients. “I have met some wonderful people and made many new friends as a result of being on dialysis,” Webster says. “I think of them all as family.” As he undergoes these three nightly sessions each week, he usually works on the Nifty Pickle, checking each item and ad before passing it to his Associate Editor, who happens to be me. He sleeps very little and has suffered from insomnia for years. Lately, he’s also experienced a debilitating breathing problem for which he is being treated. But does all this slow down this man? Not for one second. He just smiles and brushes off my concerns and the concerns of his devoted, also hard-working
wife, Trish. By the way, he met Trish one night in 2011 while doing Karaoke at a little place called Reliving The Memories that was located on Hwy 431 in Sardis. He loves to sing and entertain. Webster’s father, Vernon (Catfish) Webster, died in 2005 of lung cancer and in 2010 his grandmother, Beatrice Heflin, died of the same disease. He also lost his sister, Tammy Hardin, in 2011, who suffered from much of the same health concerns that he deals with today. Always remembering his father as a man who tried to “give” to anyone in need, Webster established what he calls “Foundation for the Cure.” The foundation doesn’t have a lot of money, but Webster uses it to help people and families in need, especially during the holidays. A number of people have donated to the FounContinued on Page 15
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ARIES (March 21 to April 19) While it seems that chaos is taking over, you get everything back to normal, even if it means being more than a little assertive with some people. Expect to hear more job-related news soon.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) You should be seeing some positive results following your move toward repairing that unraveling relationship. There might be some setbacks, but staying with it ultimately pays off.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Expect to be able to move ahead with your workplace plans now that you have a good idea of what you might have to face. You also can anticipate a welcome change on the home front.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Encouraging a friendlier environment in the home could go a long way to help dissipate anger and resolve problems, especially those affecting children. It won’t be easy, but you can do it.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A quieter period settles in, giving you a chance to catch your breath, as well as allowing for more time to handle some important family matters. The arts dominate this weekend. Enjoy them. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) The frustrations of last week have pretty much played themselves out. You should find things going more smoothly, especially with those all-important personal matters.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A recent act of kindness is beginning to show some unexpected (but very welcome) results. On another note, expect to hear more about a possible move to another locale.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) The good news is that the sure-footed Goat can rely on his or her skill to get around obstacles in the workplace. The not-so-good news is that new impediments could turn up LEO (July 23 to August 22) Once again, later. you find a creative way to resolve a pesky problem in short order. However, a matter AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A involving a possible breach of confidence change of pace is welcome but also confusmight need a bit more time to check out. ing. Before you make decisions one way or another, be sure you know precisely what it VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Re- is you’re being asked to do. uniting with an old friend could lead to the sharing of some great new experiences. But PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Don’t be careful you don’t find yourself once again fret if you don’t get the gratitude you think being super-critical or overly judgmental. you’re owed for doing a nice thing for someone. There might be a good reason for that. In any event, what’s important is that you did it. BORN THIS WEEK: You have a way of making the sort of wise decisions that ultimately shed new light on dark situations. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.
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Rise & Shine Breakfast When the grandkids stay overnight, we like to serve them dishes like this. It doesn’t take very long to prepare, but they’ll think you’ve made a big fuss over them.
Ingredients
6 eggs, beaten or equivalent in egg substitute 1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper 2/3 cup nonfat dry milk powder 2/3 cup water 2 teaspoons prepared yellow mustard 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes 3/4 cup shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese 1 cup diced extra-lean ham 1 (7.5-ounce) can refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Spray an 8-by-8-inch baking dish with butter-flavored cooking spray. 2. In large skillet sprayed with cooking spray, combine eggs and lemon pepper. Cook over medium heat until eggs are set, stirring often. Set aside. 3. In a medium saucepan, combine dry milk powder and water. Stir in mustard and parsley flakes. Add Cheddar cheese. Mix well to combine. Cook over medium heat until cheese is melted, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Fold in ham and cooked eggs. 4. Spread mixture into prepared baking dish. Separate biscuits and cut each into 4 pieces. Evenly sprinkle biscuit pieces over top of egg mixture. Lightly spray biscuit tops with cooking spray. Bake 15-20 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown. 5. Place baking dish on a wire rack and let set for 5 minutes. Makes 6 servings. ¥ Each serving equals: 262 calories, 10g fat, 20g protein, 23g carb., 839mg sodium, 2g fiber; Diabetic Exchanges: 2 Meat, 1 1/2 Starch. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.
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For most, the average work-week morning is downright dreadful. You wake up still bleary-eyed and exhausted. After knocking back some coffee as quickly as you can, it’s time for the struggle to get the •Always wear your life jacket when fishing and keep it fas- kids up and moving. The rest of your whirlwind morning is spent trying to get them ready for school, while simultaneously attempting to get at tened. Safety should be your main focus, so the life jacket least half-put together for work. should be the right size (not too big) so that it won’t slide over At the campsite, mornings couldn’t be more different. The sun is your head. shining softly through the trees, the birds are chirping gleefully, and you couldn’t be more awake or refreshed; somehow, even the old-fashioned percolated coffee tastes better. With ample time to start your day, you •Have plenty of cold drinks and snacks in the boat. might even have time to cook up a tasty campsite breakfast for everyone. The following breakfast recipes are a satisfying way to start the •Avoid getting sunburned while fishing. You should apply sunday, and easy enough to make that they won’t get frustrating or take all screen to any part of your body that isn’t covered by clothing. morning. With them, you’ll be cracking the eggs, flipping the pancakes, and frying up the bacon to create a breakfast very much worth devouring •Sunscreen should be applied at least 30 minutes before go- and remembering.
Tips for a Safe Fishing Trip
ing outdoors, even on a cloudy day, and reapplied every two hours. •Keep hooks, sharp knives and fishing line in a tackle box. You don’t want to get hurt.
All-in-One Breakfast Ingredients 3 sausage links (or other) 3 eggs half a potato 1/4 cup shredded cheese 3 tablespoons milk
•Fins are sharp. Always handle fish carefully and under the supervision of an adult. Cook sausage and cut into small pieces, cut the potato into small pieces •It is important to be aware of weather conditions before setting out on a fishing trip. Also, weather can change quickly so it is a good idea to take a radio along to stay tuned in to changing conditions. •Wearing the right clothing for a fishing trip is important and it can help to keep you dry. Footwear should be appropriate for the occasion, and wearing multiple layers of thin clothes allows you to adjust to changing temperatures. •The right clothes and repellents can help keep the bugs away. •If fishing from shore, pick an area free of debris and large enough to allow casting space for all of the anglers in your group. •Never fish from bridges or roadways.
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and cook in sausage drippings. Drain. Beat eggs and milk together and add to potatoes. When almost cooked, add sausage and cheese. Ready when cheese is melted.
Bacon & Egg in a Paper Bag Ingredients 3 thick slices of bacon 1 egg 1 paper lunch bag 1 stick
Place bacon in the bottom of the bag, covering the bottom. Crack egg and put in bag on top of the bacon. Fold top of bag down securely. Poke a hole through the top of the bag for the stick. Hold over the hot coals till cooked.
Foil Breakfast Ingredients Hash brown potatoes Eggs Sausage Spices Aluminum foil
Place potatoes, scrambled eggs (uncooked), sausage and spices in aluminum foil. Wrap securely. Place on coals for approx. 15 minutes. Turn and rotate as needed.
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Extra Day in Hospital Could Save Your Life Would you willingly stay in the hospital one more day to reduce your chances of being readmitted? A study by Columbus Business School shows that even one day longer in the hospital can reduce readmissions and costs -- and save lives -- when compared to outpatient care. The study focused on pneumonia, heart failure and myocardial infarctions in 6 million patients over the age of 65. Here are the stats for one extra day in the hospital: • Mortality risk reduced by 7 percent for those who have had a heart attack; 22 percent for those who have been treated for pneumonia. • Readmissions rate decreased by 7 percent for those with severe heart failure. • Five to six times more lives saved compared to using outpatient care. • When it comes to cost, an additional day in the hospital usually costs less than outpatient care that is the result of being released from the hospital too early. At this point, nearly 20 percent of Medicare patients end up being readmitted within a month. It makes sense for hospitals to try to keep readmissions at a minimum, because penalties will begin for additional illnesses and conditions beginning in 2015. So far hospitals have looked for ways to keep the readmission rate down, mostly by using outpatient care. However, this study shows that for most patients, that one extra day in the hospital is the better method to reduce readmissions and deaths. NOTE: Remember that you have until Dec. 7 to join a Medicare health or drug plan in the open enrollment, or make changes to the one you have for 2015. Go online to medicare.gov and compare your options. Look for the Medicare & You booklet for a lot of answers. Or contact Medicare at 1-800633-4227. Matilda Charles regrets that she cannot personally answer reader questions, but will incorporate them into her column whenever possible. Send email to columnreply2@gmail.com. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.
A Child’s Memory of Thanksgiving By Elsa Rutherford
All of us have special memories of Thanksgivings past. Families gathered around the dining table graced with a golden-brown turkey or glazed ham and all the trimmings. Most of us waiting for grace to be said and done so we could dig in before Uncle Fred or Aunt Nelly grabbed the best slices of meat. I remember so many happy Thanksgivings in my various homes as an adult with my own children and extended family and friends. But my very best memories are, without doubt, those from my Southern childhood. Perhaps everything seems bigger and better and more special when you view it through the eyes of childhood. We lived thriftily most of the year, but when we gathered around the table at Thanksgiving, it was a day of indulgence and one of the happiest times of my life. I was with the people who belonged to me and I belonged to them: grandparents, parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and cousins, all my nearest and dearest, joined by blood and love and clan. And, yes, we thought of ourselves as a clan, one for all and all for one. Our bloodline was a bit mixed: Scots-Irish, English and at least a dipperful of Cherokee and Creek. You could see our heritage in the faces at the table. We had fair, freckled-skinned redheads, blueeyed blonds, and dark haired, tawny-hued complexions. It didn’t matter. We were all family. There was one tradition that was especially exciting for us kids. We never saw much wine drinking when we were young. Well, Great aunt Lucy would sometimes donate a jar of her homemade scuppernong wine for the adults at Christmastime, but that was the limit of our acquaintance with the fruit of the vine except for our grandfather’s, Pop, treat to us on holidays. He poured a good-sized splash in a jelly jar for each of us: it was a dark reddish-purple liquid and sweet as candy. He called it Manischewitz and we never knew where he got it. But we thought it was the nectar of the gods and drinking it made us feel very grown-up. Years later, living in France, I was too embarrassed and far too worldly, I thought, to admit ever imbibing such a mediocre wine. For years, we ate Thanksgiving lunch (dinner, as we called it) at the home of my paternal grandparents. The site of these meals was a modest brick house six miles from the closest town, surrounded by acres of pecan trees. In todays more fashionable vernacular, the house might be called a “Craft’s Man Style”residence, but to us it was a plain bungalow with a banistered front porch made for sitting and relaxing. When my grandparents grew elderly and their health began to fail, we switched Thanksgiving to our house or the house of one of the aunts. Women, it went without saying, were both hostesses and cooks at these feasts. (Women’s lib had never been heard of.) My grandparents didn’t have a dining room. There was only the big table in the corner of the kitchen, covered in a red and white checked tablecloth. I have no notion of how so many of us, at least fourteen or fifteen, crammed ourselves around that
table. Maybe some of us carried our food into the living room and ate with our plates on our laps, but I don’t think so. More likely, we ate in shifts. Men first, of course, while the women surely buzzed about the table offering extra rolls or biscuits hot from the oven, refilled glasses of sweet tea, and replenished any dish that was being depleted. The table unquestionably sagged under the weight of all those dishes: sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes, green beans, fried corn, squash casserole, asparagus casserole, cornbread dressing (we never called it stuffing because it was never rammed inside the bird ) and oyster dressing because Pop learned to like it when living with the Seminoles and Mam always made it for him. In addition there were cucumber pickles, pear pickles, watermelon pickles, chow-chow, and fried apples and more I can’t remember. Desserts were heavenly delights: apple, blackberry and peach cobblers, chocolate, lemon, pumpkin and pecan pies, chocolate, coconut, lemon pound, angel food and carrot cakes. No upscale bakery or posh restaurant ever emitted such mouthwatering and scrumptious aromas or delivered such luscious-tasting flavors. The women in my family could have taught Emeril Lagasse and Wolfgang Puck a thing or two about the art of cooking. While we ate, we talked and joked and laughed and poked fun at each other and mulled over the happenings of the past year. And I admit, there was usually some eye-rolling as gossip was exchanged too. We never walked away from the table. We slouched away like slugs, just looking for someplace to lie comatose for the next several hours. As the years went on, we stifled our gluttony somewhat (it is a sin, after all) and some of the men were capable of going out to hunt after a rest and, in later years, we lounged around the TV and watched football games. But those huge feasts, coming after a year of mostly lean provisions for country folk like us, were truly manna from heaven. How much I miss those people, most who are now gone, and the younger ones, scattered here and yon, middle-aged or older themselves nowadays with children and grandchildren and Thanksgiving dinners of their own. But I will never, ever forget those happy memories of a child’s Thanksgiving when the world seemed a better and more harmonious place. I hope you have similar memories too. ©
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The Two Sides of James (JW) Webster
Continued from Page 6
dation, which is always welcomed. Webster says the motto of the Foundation is: “It is our belief that every disease demands a cure! Whether it’s a disease of the body, mind or circumstance, a cure, or at the very least, relief must be afforded.” Which side of this man is the real James Webster? I think both sides dwell within him. He never gives up, never feels sorry for himself or complains, buckles down to whatever work needs to be done and gets it done. And helps his fellow man along the way. Yes, I could tell you that I think James Webster is the best boss I’ve ever had and one of the best men I’ve known, but he’d deny it and probably feel embarrassed and I don’t want to do that. So believe what you want and, in the meantime, let me just say I am not looking for another job. ©
About the Author: Elsa Rutherford is a native Alabamian and lives in Albertville with her attorney husband, Nick Kirst, and they have two very spoiled cats. She attended Snead College and the University of North Alabama. Rutherford is a seasoned writer, beginning her award-winning career almost forty years ago as a newspaper columnist and features writer. She has written for numerous magazines and newspapers and sold her first book in the 1980’s. Her short stories have been published in anthologies in the U.S. and many other countries.
Please Support Your Local Merchants! “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” Revelation 3:20 For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish. Psalms 1:6
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Wordsearch Contest
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Win a $50 Gift Card... Find the Advertisers listed below and tell us which page
that their ad was found. Mail this entire page to us at 7032 US Hwy 431 • Albertville, AL 35950. Deadline is December 8, 2014. (Date of Puzzle: November 27, 2014)
Find these names: alabamacraftshow alanjackson bestway bottomlinewebdesign brigittesclothing custompestcontrol fullcolorprinting incarerx joespawnshop mcclendonauctionhouse mcclendonwholesale nickkirstjd qslowsmoked rigginsunlockservice sandmountainpest tradebank wlcaccounting
HOW TO PLAY: On this entry form you will find some of the businesses advertised in this issue. Simply browse the Nifty Pickle, looking for these advertisements. When you find them, record the page number on which you found their advertisement in the space provided on this entry form. Then, find and circle that business name in the word search puzzle. Once you have located all of the advertisers listed, complete the entry form and mail this entire page to the address shown above. Your entry must be received by December 8, 2014. We will then draw one entry from the group of correct entry forms and announce that winner in the December 10th issue. Incorrect or incomplete entry forms will be disqualified. All decisions by Nifty Pickle, Inc. are final. There will be only one winner for this contest each week. GOOD LUCK!
Page Numbers: __________ __________ __________ __________ __________ __________ __________ __________ __________ __________ __________ __________ __________ __________ __________ __________ __________
The Winner of the November 6, 2014 Wordsearch Puzzle Contest is A. Martinez of Boaz. Congratulations!
Name: ________________________ Address: ________________________ City, State, Zip ________________________ Telephone: ________________________ Email Address: ________________________
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Please Support Your Local Merchants!
Anyone Out There Want To Tell About Their Favorite Pet? Would you like to see your pet featured in the Nifty Pickle? Jot down some information about your pet (name, personality, something funny, tricks it can do, etc.) and send it along with a photo to Nifty Pickle Pet Pix, PO Box 1161 Guntersville, Alabama 35976, email to info@niftypickle.com or bring it by the office at 7032 US Hwy 431 in Albertville (next to Merle Norman).
Thanks For Reading The Nifty Pickle!
ACCOUNTING, PAYROLL, CONSULTING, BOOKKEEPING and Much More. Call James at WLC ACCOUNTING 256-6738190. 7032 US Hwy 431 in Albertville... 3 Doors Down from The Nifty Pickle Variety Store.
Q SLOW SMOKED BBQ 106 South Main Street in Old Downtown Boaz. If you love BBQ, then you will love REAL Q-slowsmoked with natural hardwoods. 256-281-9699. See our ad and coupon in this issue.
ALABAMA CRAFT SHOW Selling Year Around Crafts handmade by local artists. Custom orders welcome. Piper Station, Boaz. 256-996-4945.
SAND MOUNTAIN PEST MANAGEMENT Got Bugs? Call Sand Mountain Pest Management at 256-891-7400 and start protecting your house from unwanted pests. Be sure to see our coupons in this issue of The Nifty Pickle.
BOTTOMLINE WEB DESIGN Web Sites starting at ONLY $29.95 per month. Call 256-673-8190. BRIGITTE’S CHILDREN’S CLOTHING 403 Martling Road, Albertville. 256-744-8404 or 256506-5853. Family owned business Specializing in Boys and Girls Clothing Sizes Newborn to 14. CUSTOM PEST CONTROL Termite and Pest Services. We Guarantee Our Service! No Contract, No Commitment... Just Dead Bugs! 256-593-6613 JOE’S PAWN SHOP 11411 US Hwy 431 in Albertville. Buy, Sell, Trade, Pawn. Open 8am - 6pm, 7 days a week. 256-894-9994. See Our Ad In This Issue of the Nifty Pickle. McCLENDON AUCTION HOUSE Returns and Shelf Pulls from ALL Major Box Stores. Open Monday - Saturday 9am until 5pm. Sale on Saturday and Thursday at 6:30pm. 702 Chastain Blvd West, Glencoe. 256-492-5333.
TRADEBANK The Smarter Way To Barter®.Save Cash on Business and Personal Expenses. See our Ad in this issue or call JW at 256-6738190.
PRIDE MOBILITY ELECTRIC Z CHAIR. Only used a few times. Only $495. Call 256-593-6796 between 8am - 2pm. KARAOKE EQUIPMENT FOR SALE. Amp, Speakers and stands, Microphones, All necessary Cords. $850 obo. Call James at 256-6738190.
OUTSIDE SALES Representative, Mail Your Resume and Salary Requirements to Nifty Pickle, 7032 US Hwy 431, Albertville, AL 35950.
Place Your Yard Sale Ad Here. Only $5 per week for up to 30 McCLENDON WHOLESALE Words. Mail your ad and payment Buy It By The Pallet. Returns and to Nifty Pickle, 7032 US Hwy Shelf Pulls from All Major Stores. 431, Albertville, AL 35950 or you Great for Auctions, Trade Day, can come by the office located at Yard Sales, etc. Open Tuesday - that address. The deadline is every Friday 9am until 4pm. Claybrook Monday at Noon. Road in Albertville. Call Charlie at 256-477-3914 for more informa- NOTICE: The Nifty Pickle Varition. ety Store located at 7020 US Hwy 431 in Albertville (next to Cook NIFTY PICKLE VARIETY and Sons Ace Hardware) is closSTORE 7020 US Hwy 431 in Al- ing by the END of November. bertville, 2 doors down from Ace Hardware. Merchandise Added Daily. 256-673-8190
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CLASSIFIEDS
$5 each week for 30 words or less. 10¢ each additional word. Mail your ad and payment to Nifty Pickle, 7032 US Hwy 431, Albertville, AL 35950 or you can come by the office located at that address. The deadline is every Monday at Noon.
Thank You
Please Support Your Local Merchants!
For Reading The Nifty Pickle Each Week! LAST CHANCE: Up To 75% OFF SALE at The Nifty Pickle Variety Store In Albertville. 7020 US Hwy 431, next to Cook and Sons Ace Hardware.
To Advertise In The Nifty Pickle, Call JW at 673-8190. We have Affordable Rates For All!
NOW HIRING: OUTSIDE SALES
Must Be Self Motivated and Work Well With People. Send Resume to: Nifty Pickle, Inc. 7032 US Hwy 431 Albertville, AL 35950 or email to james@niftypickle.com
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Please Support Your Local Merchants!