The Pintlala Ledger June 2024

June 24, 2024 | Vol. 4, Issue 2

A Budding Author Among Us

SOME SIZZLING SUMMER NEWS

By Trish McLaney trish.mclaney@gmail.com Recently, on May 7th, two of the third-grade classes from Pintlala Elementary School, friends, and family, and others gathered at the Pintlala Branch Library to enjoy hearing a delightful story read by Ava Jones from her newly published picture book entitled "Betty and The Bee." Cobb Publishing published Ava's debut picture book, which includes both imaginative text and watercolor illustrations. What is astounding is that Ava, Pintlala’s talented and youngest published author, is nine years old!

Ava's book was the Number One new release the weekend it launched on Amazon in the Children's Intermediate Readers Category!

PHOTO: Courtesy of Sandra Berry

book, which will be part of a planned series about Betty!

The book's underlying Obviously, "Betty and the Bee" inspiration is Ava's magical appealed to many parents and attempt to divert the attention young readers! of her sister Betty, as Ava puts on cumbersome boots to I also enjoyed reading her correct Betty’s clubfoot at book, and her whimsical and bedtime. It's an adventurous colorful pictures were journey from there. delightful! Her mother Ava has always loved books mentioned that she is now enrolled in an art class because and spent many hours at the she is planning to write another Pintlala Branch Library under the supervision of Mrs. Sandra

Berry, the local librarian, and her mother. On the first page of her book, she thanked Mrs. Sandra for being the “best librarian,” and of course, she thanked her sister and her parents. With a feeling of deep satisfaction in her achievements, she proudly stated that she had worked for three months on her first released edition.

Ava is homeschooled at Thursday School, a local

A PACERS NEWSPAPER NETWORK PUBLICATION

homeschool co-op and will participate with a national Classical Conversations homeschool program again next year.

Many of you know Ava and her family. She is the daughter of Jared and Chelsea Jones and the older sister of adorable Betty! Her very proud grandparents are Mark Jones, Minister of Liberty Church of Christ, and Mrs. (Continued on page 2)

(Continued from page 1)

SIZZLING SUMMER NEWS Rachael Jones, who works at Hooper Academy.

all very proud of you and excited for you! Thank you for sharing your special new book with us, and we are all looking forward to hearing about your next book!

Not only is Ava a talented author, but she is also an Ava, you are a unique and talented young lady, and we are excellent cook!

After the program at the Pintlala Branch Library, we were all invited to enjoy chocolate chip cookies in the break room which were made

by Ava . The delicious cookies made everyone smile!

Her book is available for purchase on Amazon, and you can find a copy by searching "Betty and the Bee" by Ava Jones. Three copies are also available at the library for check-out.

PINTLALA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

STUDENTS

By Mrs. Jasmine Deese jasmine.deese@mps.k12.al.us Pintlala Elementary School.

Principal 334.288.9523 Top Right Photo: Young author Ava Jones read her delightful book “Betty and the Bee” to Pintlala Elementary School students at the Pintlala Branch Library in May. The book written and illustrated by this nine-year-old impressed visitors who attended from Pintlala Baptist Church. The church chose to donate a copy of “Betty and the Bee” to each second and third grade student.

Ava, her mother Chelsea, and Betty, the inspiration for the book, met with donors Gary and Jerrie Burton from Pintlala Baptist Church and Principal Jasmine Deese to share the gifts with the thrilled students.

These students will have met a published author and have a personal copy of Ava’s first edition. We have high expectations for her next book and her future as a writer from hometown Pintlala.

Lower Right Photo: On May 16 we had our Kindergarten and Sixth Grade Promotion Ceremonies at Pintlala Baptist Church!

What a SPECIAL day we had celebrating these students!!

Thank you to the parents and faculty for making this day happen!

Looking forward to a great new school year in August, but we’ll sure miss Ms. Meriwether who retired in May. We wish her the best in her much deserved retirement.

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Jasmine Deese

Publisher: Gary Burton

Editor: Lisa Stanton Designer: Jerrie Burton Contributing writers: Kim O’Connor, Amy Belcher, Linda Jones, Kristi Skipper 2

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Jerrie Burton

Mailing Address: 13812 US Highway 31 Hope Hull, AL 36043 334.315.2235

All information herein has been checked for accuracy to the best of the publisher’s ability. No responsibility is accepted for deletions, omissions, errors and/or inaccuracies unless special placement within the publication was purchased. Publisher reserves the right to place ads on a first-come, first-serve basis. No materials contained herein may be reproduced without exclusive written permission of the publisher. Opinions expressed by contributing writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s opinion.

The Pintlala Ledger is a quarterly publication and will be distributed in local businesses.

The newspaper is available also in a digital format. If you would like to be added to our email database, please email jsburton@charter.net. If you have a story to tell or an interesting topic, or if you are interested in joining our staff and becoming a community journalist, please contact garyburton1@charter.net.

The Pintlala Ledger

K-9 Pal By His Side

HOMETOWN HERO BLAKE KIERNAN

by Kristi Skipper klskipper01@gmail.com Pintlala is full of everyday heroes; one such hero is Blake Kiernan. Blake spent his early years in Montgomery and was raised in a large, close-knit extended family. Some of Blake’s family attended Hooper Academy, and his parents enrolled him there in 9th grade. Soon after, they moved to Hope Hull to be closer to the school.

While at Hooper, Blake met Emily Murchison. They dated throughout high school and college and married in 2011, settling in Pintlala. They welcomed two daughters, Ansley and Olivia. The girls play softball at Pintlala, and Blake loves the way it gets the community together.

he graduated in 2023.

Blake works as a sergeant in the Patrol Division, supervising officers in Sector A and covering the north and west sides of Montgomery. His partner is MPD’s emotional support dog, Corporal Chester, who you can read about in our next issue of The Pintlala Ledger.

Blake and Chester are members of the Peer Support Bureau, providing support to MPD personnel who may need help navigating through traumatic situations in their professional or personal lives. This comes as no surprise because, according to Blake’s former shift commander, Retired Captain Charlie Burton, Blake is a great friend who always puts others first.

Blake spent eight years in the K9 unit, working with a singlepurpose narcotics dog and dual After high school, Blake attended Auburn University but -purpose dogs trained in soon returned to Hope Hull and apprehension and narcotics. applied for the police academy When Blake’s first K9 retired, at the Montgomery Police the current handler couldn’t Department. adopt him, so he lived with He was in a class of 17 chosen Blake and his family for two years until his death. “I think from 1,300 applicants. Blake he knew he was retired,” Blake grew up watching the local said, “because he got lazy and television show MPD, and just hung out.” Currently, thought being a cop was cool.

Corporal Chester lives with Several officers also inspired Blake and his family. him during childhood, so the opportunity to join MPD was Blake believes his shift is the exciting for him. best in the department because the officers and leadership all Blake graduated from the work well together. He said, Montgomery Police Academy “The chemistry is unbelievable. in 2012. MPD paid for him to They are all hard workers; they complete his bachelor’s in criminal justice with a minor in help each other.” homeland security at Troy They even received a Unit University Montgomery, and Local People . . . Local Stories

PHOTO: Courtesy of Blake Kiernan

Corporal Chester and Sergeant Kiernan are partners at MPD.

Citation for doing an outstanding job. Regardless of the stress that comes with the job or the amount of frustration from the public, Blake said his officers are giving their all every shift.

his hands dirty and is usually last to leave at the end of shift.

According to Charlie, “Blake is one of those guys that will always accomplish what needs to be done – there is no failing.”

Charlie Burton noted that if the morale on the shift is good, it’s primarily due to Blake’s leadership. He said, “Blake takes care of his people. He does everything he can to make their jobs easier. He is a lead-from-the-front kind of guy.” Blake is not afraid to get

When asked about positive experiences on the job, Blake revealed that one of the officers on his shift, Alan Silva, was awarded Police Officer of the Year for his role in an emergency call involving a (Continued on page 4)

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HOMETOWN HERO house fire. Officer Silva helped rescue a firefighter trapped inside the burning home. The firefighter would have died if not for the bravery of this young officer.

Blake’s favorite way to destress is spending time with his wife and daughters. They love movie nights, hunting, and fishing. Blake said, “Family is everything to me.”

Of course, Pintlala plays a role in his stress relief, too, offering

peace and quiet after working a 12-hour shift in loud and busy Montgomery.

THE PINTLALA LEDGER In the heart of Alabama, where magnolias bloom Lies a peaceful community, bathed in golden afternoon.

Pintlala, a place where neighbors greet with a smile, Where stories intertwine, mile after mile.

Becoming a police officer strengthened his love for Pintlala, and Blake loved the community long before he became a cop. He said, “I love that it has a small-town feel without being out in the middle of nowhere.”

THE PINTLALA LEDGER, ink-stained and true, Weaves tales of triumph, of everyday heroes too.

Its pages dance with laughter, with deeds that inspire, A beacon of light in a world that can tire.

From the farmer's harvest to the schoolyard cheer, The Ledger celebrates moments both far and near.

It whispers secrets of kindness, of bonds that endure.

A testament to unity, a promise to secure.

Blake said, “I can call just about anybody in this community if I need anything.

It is a really cool community that I will never take for granted.”

So, raise a toast to Pintlala, its spirit so bright, And to THE PINTLALA LEDGER, a guiding light.

For in its ink-stained verses, we find hope anew, In this close-knit community, where dreams come true.

Kathryn Loftin 6/2024

Pintlala Softball

A Community Bonding Over Sports

By Casey Ray clray31@gmail.com

In the heart of Pintlala, Alabama, softball is not just a sport but a way of life that brings together neighbors,

friends, and families. The Pintlala Softball League stands as a shining example of community, unity, and good

sportsmanship.

This league is not only a venue for athletic competition but a vital thread in the fabric of local life, bringing together residents of all ages in the shared love of softball.

Founded with humble beginnings, the league has grown steadily over the years, expanding its reach and impact on the community. All are welcome from youngsters swinging their first bats to seasoned players showcasing their skills on the diamond.

This year the league had more than 200 kids register to play. The youngest participants, between the ages of 3 and 6, learn the basics in the T-Ball Division.

These PHOTOS: Courtesy of David Haygood

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This PHOTO: Courtesy of Dixie Brown

Participants between the ages of 7 and 11 continue to develop their skills in the Middle (Continued on page 5)

The Pintlala Ledger

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PINTLALA SOFTALL Division. The Older Division participants between the ages of 12 and 17 show off and practice their skills during competitive play. The league has something for everyone; and has even been able to put together eight full teams for an Adult Division.

Indeed, the league’s impact extends far beyond the diamond. It serves as a focal point for social gatherings, where spectators cheer on friends and family and players forge friendships on and off the field.

With games being played four days a week on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays some families can easily spend three or four days at the field cheering on children, siblings, cousins, grandchildren, parents, or friends. Throughout the season the field echoes with laughter, cheers, and the occasional sound of a home run cracking off a bat.

Volunteers play a crucial role in the league’s success. The board members work hard to make the league a reality.

Coaches spend their time imparting their knowledge of the game to the kids and helping them apply it.

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Vickie Boyd

The zealous Pintlala T-Ball Blue Team is always ready for a little friendly competition and drama.

Equipment for the field and concession stand were also donated to the league by members of the community.

It is clear that volunteers are the lifeblood of the league.

Their dedication underscores the community’s commitment to fostering a positive environment where sportsmanship and fair play reign supreme.

Beyond the thrill of competition, the league emphasizes values like teamwork, sportsmanship, safety, and respect. It serves as a platform where friendships are formed, families bond over Organizers ensure each game shared experiences, and day runs smoothly by newcomers are welcomed with maintaining the field, preparing open arms. the concession stand, operating the lights and scoreboard, and With the current season in full calling games. Other volunteers swing the Pintlala Softball spend countless hours on field League looks forward to it’s clean-up days assisting with growth and continuation. general maintenance of the Anyone who is considering field and surrounding areas. playing is welcome to come down. There is ample free Just this year, several parking available at both overgrown areas of the grounds Pintlala Elementary and were cut back and sections of Pintlala Baptist Church. fence were repaired.

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The concession stand is fully its mission of providing a fun stocked with good food, drinks, and competitive outlet for all and snacks; both cards and members of the community. cash accepted.

Through the dedication of its Also available at the volunteers and the enthusiasm concession stand are raffle of its participants, the league tickets to win one of two Yeti continues to enrich the lives of Coolers: 1 ticket for $5 and 5 residents and strengthens the tickets for $20. The raffle bonds that define Pintlala, drawing will occur on July 30 Alabama. As another season during the kid’s divisions unfolds on its well-worn field, closing ceremonies. one thing remains clear: the Pintlala Softball League is not As Pintlala grows, so too does just a place to play; it is a place the softball league. Looking to belong. ahead, the Pintlala Softball League remains committed to

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Rabies is a real threat

A TERRIFYING ENCOUNTER ON THEIR DECK

by Kim O’Connor kmoc1968@gmail.com What started as just another day for Joe and Margie Poole became what they would describe as "unbelievably horrible."

was then also attacked. He fell twice and would later find out he had fractured his back.

Fortunately, he was able to kill the animal.

They called their vet, Dr. Jeff Cavanaugh, who instructed them to "double bag the fox and keep it in the refrigerator On June 9th of this year, they until they were able to get it to were viciously attacked, the health department for scratched, and bitten by a fox testing." The Alabama that ran onto their deck. The fox had recently given birth to Department of Public Health three kits and the Pooles would says, if you must kill the animal, do not damage the PHOTO: Courtesy of Margie Poolee periodically see them playing head, and do not touch the dead in the woods near their home. animal with your bare hands.

This is the fox that viciously attacked the Pooles on their deck recently.

The day before the attack, Mrs. Dr. Cavanaugh also instructed them to seek immediate It is also stated on the Alabama stray, injured animals or Poole saw one of them near Public Health's website that wildlife (even if they look their house and said she noticed medical attention. harmless) raccoons make up the majority unusual behavior, "it appeared of all Rabies cases every year. 3. Don't handle bats. to be staggering," but she never Mrs. Poole drove them to Baptist East ER, where she In Alabama, there are two 4. Keep your pets (it is the tried to get closer in case says they "each received law in Alabama) and different strains of rabies virus: something was wrong with the tetanus and rabies shots, and livestock (recommended) the raccoon variant and the bat animal. additional shots in and around variant. The raccoon strain can vaccinated.

The following day, Mr. Poole, the multiple bites and 5. Keep pets properly infect other wildlife, such as scratches." They were as he often did, took a cup of confined or on leashes. foxes, coyotes, and skunks; but scheduled for further injections more importantly, it can infect 6. Avoid leaving trash or coffee, their two dogs and cat outside to sit on the deck when three, seven, and fourteen days people's pets. Vaccination of leftover pet food after the initial attack. a fox appeared and began uncovered, which may dogs, cats, and ferrets is chasing and attacking the attract wildlife. required by law.

Vaccinations animals. One of their dogs was The rabid fox also scratched a for other species, such as neighbor a few days before able to bite the fox's tail, and You can read more about horses and livestock are also Mr. Poole was scratched on the who was required to complete Rabies at available and recommended. the necessary treatment for her foot in the scuffle. www.alabamapublichealth.gov/ Vaccinating animals helps wounds. infectiousdiseases/rabies ensure protection should they The fox scurried off, but later The Alabama Public Health unknowingly be exposed to a that afternoon, Mrs. Poole went rabid animal.

Margie and Joe are doing well outside on the deck to try to get website defines Rabies as a deadly viral disease that infects after receiving all of the their cat back inside, and the It is important to know that if the brain and spinal cord of required shots. Joe is still fox began chasing the cat. As mammals. It is spread from an you are ever bitten or scratched recovering from his fractured soon as it noticed Mrs. Poole by an animal, time is of the infected animal, usually vertebra. Margie says their pets on the deck, it turned and essence. Do not wait to seek through a bite or scratch. are doing great because they began attacking her legs and medical attention as soon as Rabies is preventable if proper had been vaccinated. feet. She began swatting at it possible. treatment is given before with a broom but the feral symptoms occur but is fatal NOTE: While in the ER they Quick Steps for Prevention animal would not relent. Mrs. once symptoms are present. were told that several people 1. Avoid being bitten or Poole described it as a scene Any bite or scratch from an had been treated for rabies over scratched. Get medical "out of an Alfred Hitchcock animal should be checked by a the last two weeks. Be aware. attention immediately if movie.” Mr. Poole came physician and reported to the you are scratched or bitten. outside to help his wife and county health department.

2. Don't approach or feed 6

The Pintlala Ledger

Check Your ISO Fire Rating

PINTLALA VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT NEWS

By Shawn Holland, Chief sholland@pintlalafire.com TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN It has come to our attention that many insurance companies are not using the correct ISO fire rating for the people served by Pintlala Volunteer Fire Station.

If you have received a large hike in your insurance premium, find out what fire rating they are using. PVFD obtained a rating of “5” several years ago and we continue to work on improving. ISO examines each department

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every 5 years, and we will be evaluated again later this year.

In the meanwhile, we have the current rating of 5 as indicated in our evaluation from 2019.

There is another opportunity to obtain a lower rating if your property is within 5 miles of one of our 3 stations, AND within 1000 feet of a fire hydrant. Discuss this option with your agent.

PVFD is working on a way to distribute the documents you need to provide proof of our ISO rating, to the insurance companies.

We will make copies of the ISO rating and make them available for you to pick up at Station 1 at 272 Federal Road.

The copies will be in an outdoor literature holder to facilitate pickup after hours."

We will also make some copies available at Mosley’s Store.

Pintlala Volunteer Fire Department is working to serve you.

Anyone can contact us VIA the fire station number (334)2802333 or email sholland@pintlalafire.com.

PHOTO: Courtesy of Jerrie Burton

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Colts Celebrate Incredible Year

HOOPER ACADEMY MOVING ON UP

By Judy Reeves jreeves@hooperacademy.org As the academic year draws to a close, Hooper Academy is abuzz with celebrations and reflections on an exceptional year filled with achievements and new ventures. The school recently hosted its end-of-year festivities, highlighting both academic and athletic accomplishments.

Honors Days and Graduations

PHOTO: Courtesy of Hooper Academy

The High School and Lower School Honors Days were significant events, where students were recognized for their outstanding academic achievements and contributions. These ceremonies celebrated the dedication and hard work of Hooper's students, setting a tone of excellence and pride.

Athletic Triumphs The track team also showcased their talent at the state track meet, putting forth commendable performances that reflected their hard work and commitment throughout the season.

PHOTO: Courtesy of Hooper Academy

The Baccalaureate service provided a moment of reflection and gratitude for the graduating seniors (top), while the Graduation ceremony itself was a grand event, marking the culmination of years of hard work.

The K5 graduation (lower) was equally special, as the youngest students of Hooper Academy took their first steps toward a promising educational journey.

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The Pintlala Ledger

YOUR PINTLALA COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SHARE: The Pintlala Ledger editions can be viewed on issuu.com, search “Pintlala Ledger.” If you know of someone who would like to receive an email with the link please have them email thepintlalaledger@gmail.com or jerrieburton@gmail.com PHOTO: Courtesy of Hooper Academy

In the realm of sports, Hooper Academy's teams delivered stellar performances. The highlight of the year was undoubtedly the softball team's triumph, clinching their second consecutive state championship in May. This remarkable achievement underscores the dedication and skill of our athletes and coaches.

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of opportunities available to our students.

We are excited about the future and the opportunities it holds.

Community and Growth

For anyone interested in joining the Hooper Academy family, we encourage you to set up a tour by calling our main office at 334-288-5980.

Come and see firsthand the vibrant and dynamic community that makes Hooper Academy a place of excellence and opportunity.

HOOPER ACADEMY New Sports and Clubs

The past year has also seen a Hooper Academy is continually significant increase in alumni evolving and expanding its involvement. Former students extracurricular offerings. This have actively participated in year, we were thrilled to various school events and reintroduce tennis, providing initiatives, strengthening the students with another avenue to Hooper community and pursue their athletic passions. providing valuable support and Looking ahead, we are excited inspiration to current students. to announce the addition of We look forward to furthering cross-country to our sports this trend and fostering even lineup next year. greater alumni engagement in the coming years.

In addition to traditional sports, Hooper Academy has As we celebrate an incredible introduced a club clay shooting year of achievements and team. This new team offers growth, Hooper Academy students a unique and remains committed to competitive extracurricular providing a supportive and activity, broadening the scope enriching environment for our students.

Local People . . . Local Stories

For more information about Hooper Academy please call our main office at (334) 288-5980.

Hooper Academy 380 Fischer Road Hope Hull AL 36043 Headmaster, Darryl Free

SUPPORT: Our parent organization PACERS Newspaper Network, is a 501c3 nonprofit group supporting rural Alabama newspapers.

The Pacers Rural Community News Network has launched a web site at https://pacers-prcnn00852.squarespace.com/ chapters with archived issues of the four rural newspaper they sponsor.

Your contributions to “PACERS, INC” c/o Gary Burton, 13812 US Highway 31, Hope Hull, AL 36043 are greatly appreciated.

ADVERTISE: We would love to publish an ad for your business in the newspaper. Contact Kim O’Connor at 334.220.3025 or kmoc1968@gmail.com for ad information.

JOIN THE TEAM We are always in need of volunteer staff who would like to edit, sell ads, write articles, or interview people in our neighborhood.

Thank you for supporting our community newspaper.

We welcome your story ideas, comments and suggestions.

Please contact Kristi Skipper at klskipper01@gmail.com or thepintlalaledger@gmail.com.

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“We, The People” - Part 2

By Lee Hester lee.hester@att.net Part 2 of 3 In the last edition of the Ledger, we discussed that the roles and responsibilities of “We, the People” begin with participating. So did you do your homework? Are you registered to vote? Do you know where your voting precinct is? Is our next election day on your calendar?

Before you head to your precinct, you have another responsibility. Do you even know who and what you’re voting for?

Only through active participation can we educate ourselves to have an informed perspective. We all have opinions. Are they informed opinions or are they just a viewpoint based on some comment Cousin Larry made, or something which may or may not be accurate you read on Facebook? Why do you believe (or feel) the way you do?

After all, for most of us, where we stand on a given issue is based on where we sit; but then, where is it exactly we're sitting, and, more importantly, why?

And there are even more questions – who determines what issues we’re voting on? What funding supports each issue, and who specifically decides how the funds are spent?

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Nearly one-third of every dollar you make goes to the government at some level.

And who decides where and how your money gets spent (apportioned) is called politics. And politics are run by those we elect. Most of these dollars are federal—where income, social security, and Medicare taxes get roughly 1523% of your dollar (rough numbers) depending on a host of variables.

Then, consider property and sales tax along with other tax types in addition to these. The Federal government, State, County, and City all have streams of revenue that begin with that dollar you earned.

Further however, and something we commonly forget, is that we do 'get' something for our money—we get goods and services.

national defense. And I'm sure you are secure in the fact that IF something bad happens, federal, state, and/or local first responders will be there to render aid. And, let's not forget that public education most of us and/or our children are products of.

All are funded by those tax dollars. So, how does the federal government spend your money? Here's a chart USA Facts published 26 February 2024; an aggregate of information from US Treasury and The Office of Management and Budget. Notice how we have committed to spend considerably more than our revenue stream provides (deficit spending).

We all like to complain about wasted federal spending.

But when we look at federal obligations, discretionary Of course, at this point, it's dollars are limited. Much of easy to be upset. Whatever it is, our spending was obligated it isn't good enough. After all, years ago. Interest on debt, you worked hard for your social security, Medicare, dollar, and you should decide veterans care, etc. are areas where it gets spent. And that's most of us probably believe really the point of this article. are 'owed' and the collective WE have a responsibility You're losing (or investing) to pay. Could we cut nearly 40 cents from every them? Absolutely. dollar and have no obvious goods, no gas, no groceries, no But what to cut? And how? power bill payment bucks to Which category do we take show. But is that really the from, or do we just grow the case? That's where keeping revenue stream (more taxes?) perspective and staying Whether we do or not rests informed matters. with who WE elect to public office—the congress who will You probably drove on a decide what to levy for income federal, a state, and a county/ and direct how that income will city road just today. I'd also get spent. Informed matters. expect you didn't feel like you were going to be attacked by a Once informed on what is at foreign power, thanks to issue, then is where you stand

on it. I was surprised to learn that nearly 90% of income at the federal level is pretty much obligatory spending and well in excess of income. The what to stop paying for so we can pay for something else, without generating more revenue (increasing taxes) is significantly less obvious than I might have thought— making such choices much more difficult.

Add to that the numbers on growth projection of social security and Medicare costs due to an aging population living longer by the day, and the task at hand becomes more and more complicated. And for these reasons, my perspective, and my participation in selecting representatives who will vote the way I would if I were there in person becomes all the more critical.

So you have another assignment. Read. Watch.

And Listen.

Find out what’s on your next voting ballot and become an educated voter.

“We, The People” must be an informed people.

The Pintlala Ledger

HEALTHCARE PLAN FOR ALABAMA SUMMERS

By Wilson Scott wscott785@gmail.com

Let's break down the science.

Electrolytes are tiny, charged particles in your body that are Alabama summers require crucial for its proper special health care. functioning. They include Just like different seasons bring This impact was highlighted by sodium (salt), potassium, different temperatures, they a recent member who was magnesium, chloride, and also bring health challenges. complaining of long-standing calcium, which we mostly get In winter, we look out for colds symptoms that included through a balanced diet and and flu. In fall and spring, dizziness, fatigue, and staying hydrated. many deal with allergies. confusion. The symptoms were severely impacting her So when you become In the summertime South, we everyday life and became so dehydrated (anytime of the deal with notorious nutrientalarming that she went to year) and lack these nutrients, depleting heat and humidity several doctors. you can really feel poorly. affecting many, especially active seniors.

Finally, one ordered bloodwork The first line of defense is that revealed significant simple: drink plenty of water.

As the director of the electrolyte imbalances. Once Some experts recommend the Montgomery Cardiovascular she addressed those "8 x 8 rule" – that is eight - 8 Associates Health & Fitness imbalances, her health quickly oz glasses of water daily even Center, specializing in senior if you're not thirsty. Just improved. care, I witness every year the

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profound impact our hot and humid weather has on my members and the general population of Alabama.

remember your body is 60% water!

So be aware this summer. Stay hydrated! If you've stayed too long in the garden or exercised to the hilt and are not feeling good, you can grab an electrolyte-enhanced Gatorade, Pedialyte, or even pickle juice.

But a balanced diet and plenty of water or fluids usually do the job.

Whatever you do, listen to your body. Stay hydrated throughout the day for the best health results. Grab some water, and don't wilt in our summer sun.

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R e s p e c t — H o t A i r — S h a r k s — Tr a i n s

NEWS FROM YOUR PINTLALA LIBRARY

By Sandra Berry pintlalacirc@mccpl.lib.al.us 334.281.8069 Check out the library Facebook page for more info. See you there!

(Right) June 5 Adventure begins at the library! Our summer reading program has started with a bang. Our adventurers have been crafting, and hunting for treasure! Its not too late to join us because this adventure will be going all summer long!

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Sandra Berry

(Above) June 17 Pintlala Summer Reading Program Storytime with a Scientist Jennifer, Alabama Department of Environment Management. She read a story and gave out coloring books and pencils. Ms. Jennifer shared with us all about her job and how we can help keep our earth clean.

Second, we had a guest reader Mrs. Kiernan, reading Shark vs Train by: Chris Barton Ms. Sandra also read a book - “Hot Air” by: Marjorie Priceman Our craft today: we made balloon animals Thank you all for coming.

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Sandra Berry

PHOTOS Courtesy of Sandra Berry PHOTOS: Courtesy of Sandra Berry

(Above) May 7 Ms. Hall's 2nd grade class joined us for story time! Afterwards they made their own special Mother's Day cards!

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(Above) May 15 Today the students of Pintlala Elementary were taught about the concept of "respect" and all of its forms. They learned how to be respectful to their teachers, parents, country, and themselves!

The Pintlala Ledger