Athens Now Al by Alabama Biz Finder

April 5 - April 18, 2013

athensnowal.com E-MAIL: info@athensnowal.com ADVERTISING: 256-468-9425 Post Classifieds for FREE! At www.AthensNowAl.com

Coldwell Banker Realty... See Our Listings Inside this edition... Pages 25 - 32

All Things Soldier Follow Me: The Yoni Netanyahu Story... It has been nearly 40 years since one of the most remarkable hostage rescue operations in modern history occurred in Uganda... Page 4

Special Feature

Valley Pools Of Athens: Service, Saltwater Conversion Systems, And “Aquasilk” By Ali Elizabeth Turner In 2012, Valley Pools of Madison opened their second store located in French Farms Village, directly across from Wal-Mart on Hwy 72 in Athens. Ronny Hughes and Bob Taylor, (with nearly 70 years combined pool-building experience,) are excited to be located in Athens, Continued on pages 15

Celebrate Recovery: Healing For The Hurting

Athens Garden Club Annual Scholarship Drive Coming April 27th On The Square... On Saturday, April 27th, from 7am to 1pm, members of the Athens Garden Club are hosting a bake sale fundraiser for their annual scholarship drive... Page 9

The World According To Will Remembering Terri Schiavo, And Her Story’s Life Lesson ... In her book “Ballad for Baghdad,” Ali Turner begins her chapter on Terri Schiavo with a quotation from Thomas Jefferson... Page 19

April 5 - April 18, 2013

By Ali Elizabeth Turner

Dick and Jan Sanders of Friendship Church’s Celebrate Recovery Ministry

www.athensnowal.com

I first met Dick and Jan Sanders in 2000, not long after we arrived in Alabama. We were part of a small home-based fellowship, and I just plain liked them. Dick was a “shy guy,” successful in his career as an engineer, and Jan was a bright and devoted homeschooling mom. She was also Continued on page 17

Page 2

www.athensnowal.com

April 5 - April 18, 2013

Publisher’s Point Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Sales / Editing Deborah Huff

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Contributing Writers Shelley Underhill Janet Hunt Lynne Hart Teresa Todd Brian Black Joel Allen Will Anderson Angie DuBois Dr. Patrick Boyett Jerry Barksdale

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . . 4 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 6 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 9 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . 11 Clean and Green . . . . . . . . 12 Cooking with Shelley . . . . . . 13 Cover Stories . . . . . . . . . 15,17 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 18 World According to Will . . 19 Dog Barker . . . . . . . . . . . 20

The Strength Of One’s Story On Wednesday, April 3rd, right in the middle of what sometimes are the “Perils of Publication Week,” I was blessed to speak to the members of the Mayor’s Youth Commission. We met at Leak City, and had pizza for lunch. My topic was “The Pen Is Mightier Than The Sword,” and anyone who knows me knows that I was, when I was a full time educator, a real stickler when it came to being able to communicate well, both in writing and speaking the English language. (Notice I said “well,” not “perfectly,” as Lord knows, despite our best team efforts, “goobers” sometimes end up in Athens Now and I have to be embarrassed for two weeks until the next edition comes out and the same thing could happen all over again…) I found that there were kids in the room that had never met each other, and so I gave them an “ice breaker” assignment: Go to someone you have never met, introduce yourself, get their name, tell “your person” the title of your favorite story, allow them to do the same, and then stand and tell what you learned. The results were, as to be expected, widely varied and in many ways refreshing. There were several whose favorite story was The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. “Good!” I thought to myself.

Someone somewhere is still insisting upon some exposure to American lit. I expected some references to Twilight and The Hunger Games, and sure enough, there were a few. But there were stories which surprised me, for completely different reasons. There were several die

hard Dr. Suess fans, including our Mayor, who routinely puts on his striped Cat In The Hat hat and goes and reads to kids. Any parent knows that Dr. Suess is one of the best ways to teach life lessons to kids and make them laugh while they are at it. And then, to my shock I found that “my person’s” favorite story was Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World. “Ooooh, creepy,” I said to him with a smile, and if I had these kids on a regular basis I would have had him tell me why. Mine is To Kill A Mockingbird. I asked them to think of stories that had changed the world for good. Un-

cle Tom’s Cabin was one, and a story that definitely changed the world for the bad was Adolph Hitler’s Mein Kampf. What a relief that kids that are going to graduate from Athens High actually know who Adolph Hitler was, and what his book was about! I think I am going to be able to rest easier at

night. It was also a comfort to have them conclude that the Bible was the most important book ever written, and had done the most good. Then we talked about The Diary Of Ann Frank, the unlikely way in which it went from a post WWII monster hit to a modern classic, and how it has affected the lives of kids generations later through the book and film Freedom Writers. But what was it that I wanted them to conclude more than anything? That their story mattered, and they needed to write it well through the choices they made. And, if I may

say the same to you, dear reader, your story matters. You may not write an earth shaking novel, you may not think that there is anything in your story that could ever serve as a life lesson or a source of comfort or inspiration for someone else, but you are wrong.

Just this week, as I was interviewing the Sanders for the Celebrate Recovery article, two things were said to me that changed my life. They weren’t original with them, but they struck me nonetheless. The first was, that really the only way to introduce oneself with validity was to be able to say, “Hi, I am so and so, and I am a grateful believer.” The second was to realize that the only way I can define myself with any credibility or stability is to say, “I am His child, and I am loved.” All other identities and relationships are tenuous. It took someone an enormous amount of pain to make that true in our lives, and our story blended with His story equals HISTORY. So let’s tell it well, and let’s finish well. It’s a job no one else can do.

Ali Elizabeth Turner Athens Now Information & Inspiration 256-468-9425 ali@athensnowal.com Website: www.athensnowal.com

Medical Update . . . . . . . . 21 Security Savvy . . . . . . . . . . 23 Jerry’s Journal . . . . . . . . 24

April 5 - April 18, 2013

athensnowal.com www.athensnowal.com

Page 3

All Things Soldier

Follow Me: The Yoni Netanyahu Story

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

It has been nearly 40 years since one of the most remarkable hostage rescue operations in modern history occurred in Uganda. German terrorists that were left of center, shall we say, teamed up with Palestinian terrorists and hijacked an airliner carrying mostly Jewish passengers, and landed it in Entebbe, Uganda. I remember it well. It was during the reign of raving madness that was the hallmark of Idi Amin and his administration, which facilitated the hijacking by allowing the terrorists to land and stay at the airport. For eight days, the world, and especially the not even 30 year old State of Israel waited, praying that the terrorists’ threats to kill all the hostages if Israel didn’t meet their demands would not come to pass. It was July 4, 1976, and it became known as the “Miracle

Page 4

at Entebbe.” The raid was led by Yoni Netanyahu, the big brother of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin (Bibi) Netan-

led the squad that blew into the airport, blew away the terrorists, and rescued 103 people. It was an astronomical

SEALS have learned much from the Israelis and the strategies employed at Entebbe. Sadly, as the hostages were

Yoni Net resting during the Yon Kippur War, October 1973

Now there is a documentary of both the raid and the man who died saving others. It contains footage of the actual rescue and a discussion of both the complexities of the raid and those of the man who led it. It is entitled Follow Me: The Yoni Netanyahu Story. Below is one of the reviews of the film: The Charlotte Observer

yahu, and it was a phenomenal success. Lt. Col Netanyahu

gamble, executed with precision, and people like the Navy

www.athensnowal.com

scurrying to the transport planes to be extracted before Idi Amin could muster his troops, Yoni was shot and killed. He was the only Israeli soldier to die in the raid. News journalists such as Walter Cronkite and David Brinkley kept us up to date before the days of 24/7 cable feeds of today, and the whole world cheered when the hostages were freed and rescued. They also mourned the fact that 30 year old Yoni, (which is the equivalent of the name Johnny) lost what had already been a life that was the stuff of legends.

“Yoni Netanyahu hated war but loved his country. He led the seemingly impossible but successful Raid on Entebbe but tragically became the only Israeli casualty. Told partly through his own letters and poetry, this compelling documentary unveils his complex character by allowing us to see beyond his tough exterior into a deep inner personality where heroism, duty, love, turmoil and doubt raged. His writings describe with striking clarity the exhilaration and fear he faced during the crossroads of his short but fascinating life and the recognition of his human frailty. Nevertheless, Yonatan Netanyahu dared to make a difference, and he is a true modern day hero.”

Let us, as we face the weariness of war and find ways to support our soldiers, remember that Israel lives with the constant threat of annihilation, and yet, they press on toward a better day. May we in America do the same.

April 5 - April 18, 2013

www.athensnowal.com

Page 5

Calendar of Events Yesterdays Event Center presents “The Flashbacks” Apr 6th at 6pm

The return of the region’s premiere classic showband, “The Flashbacks” for a night of fantastic memories, and some exciting new surprises including very special guest vocalist Kim Fleming. Kim’s long list of credits include performing at Carnegie Hall with the Fisk Jubilee Singers, touring with Amy Grant, Wynnona Judd, and Trisha Yearwood, and performing in the Broadway musical “Ain’t Misbehavin”. The Flashbacks perform your all time favorite hits from the 70’s and 80’s, with a little 60’s, Motown, and Disco included, all with high energy and crowd interaction. This will be a complete dinner show, but no dance floor for this show. Show details: Show admission is $15, E-mail Reservations are required. There will be a complete country dinner available including drink and dessert for $9.95. Doors open 6PM, dinner available 6-7PM, showtime 7PM. You may reserve seating by info@yesterdaysevents.com, and pay at the door, cash or personal check. Please specify if you plan to eat with us.

Chick-fil-A Connect Race Series April 6 at 8:00 AM

All ages are welcome to register for the Chick-fil-A® Connect Race Series. 1-Mile Family Fun Run/5K/10K Run and Free Family Fun Zone on Saturday, April 6 at 8 a.m. at Athens Limestone Hospital Wellness Center. The race will offer Chip Timing, USATF Certified course, Dri-fit shirt for participants, and a chance to win Chick-fil-A® for a YEAR! Runners can also earn points in SPEED AND SPIRIT for the Athens race and for the national Chick-fil-A® Connect Race Series. The Free Family Fun Zone will be located by the finish line with several inflatables for a family-friendly activity area. The Fun Zone is open to children ages 12 and under. Proceeds from the Chick-fil-A® Connect Race of Athens will benefit the Bridge of Hope Adoption Ministry. Pre-registration prices are $25 for 1-Mile/5K and $30 for the 10K. Registrations on April 6 are $30 for 1-Mile/5K and $35 for 10K. Group registrations of four or more runners will receive a 10% discount. For more information about the Chick-fil-A® Connect Race Series or Family Fun Zone, visit www.cfaraceseries.com. Runners will receive a Chick-fil-A Race Series dri-fit shirt! Sign up at : http:// connectrace.net/event/chick-fil-a-connect-race-series-athensal/media

Family Fun Day April 7th 11am-3pm

Free to the public. Enjoy the baby goats and baby lambs. Take farm tours and see how the delicious Humble Heart Goat Cheese is made. Sample fresh cheese and goat milk ice cream. Take pictures of your kids with our kids. Working on a picnic area so bring your own blankets. Talking with chefs about having picnic food available. Humble Heart Farms, 25235 Mooresville Road (North of Thach Road) Elkmont, AL 35620

Page 6

Athens State’s Athenian Players to present The Glass Menagerie April 11-13, and April 19-20 at 7:30 p.m.

Matiness performances will be held on Sunday April 14 and Sunday April 21 at 2:00 p.m. The Athenian Players of Athens State University present their inaugural production of Tennessee Williams’ The Glass Menagerie. This play, directed by Assistant Professor of Drama, Dr. Hugh Long, will be performed in the Black Box Theater at Calhoun Community College. Admission will be charged at the door and is $10.00 per person, $7.00 for students and seniors. In addition, there will be a special dinner and theater performance on Saturday, April 27 at 7:00 p.m. in the ballroom of the Sandridge Student Center on Athens State’s campus. Dinner will be served by Picasso’s Grill with the cost being $30 per person. Call 256-233-8243 for reservations. “We are beginning a rebirth of Athens State University Drama with the great Southern Playwright, Tennessee Williams,” states Dr. Long, “and with the Athenian Players fostering a North Alabama theatre culture & community firmly grounded in our wonderful academic institutions of Athens State University and Calhoun Community College”. The cast consists of Laura Poe as the mother, Jensie Britt as her daughter, Colin Whitworth as her son, and Forrest Johnson as the gentleman caller. More information can be found at www.athens.edu/athenianplayers.

Walk for Autism at Athens High School Apr 13 8:30AM

$30 registration fee includes a T-Shirt. 2 mile walk with other activities for kids and families.limestonecounty@autismalabama.org Register at www.walkforautismal.comSponsored by Autism Society of Alabama.

Athens High School Booster Club Golf Tournament April 18

Join the fun at Canebrake Club, Athens, AL. Cost per foursome is $500. Registration Opens at 11 AM, Lunch is served at 11:30 AM and Tee Off is 1:00 PM. Team prizes, longest drive, closest to the pin, Hole-in-one prizes, lunch & range balls included mulligans (4 individual mulligans per player available for purchase) & award ceremony immediately following tournament play. All proceeds go to the Athens High School Athletic Booster Club. Contact Taz Morell at taz&morellengineering.com or 256-8674957/497-4595.

Earth Day Celebration and Outdoor EXPO Apr 20 at 10:00 AM - 3PM

Keep Athens Limestone Beautiful and Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association invities you to come out and enjoy the great outdoors! The Coosa River Science School will bring their birds of prey presentation along with llive raptors, reptile, and amphibian presentation. Jim Swanner with KIN Stables in Tanner will have Rosie, his dancing horse to do a surprising demonstration. Many other demonstrations for all things outdoors. Free hotdogs and Pepsi! Contact 256-233-8728 or 256-232-5411.

www.athensnowal.com

April 5 - April 18, 2013

www.athensnowal.com

Page 7

Tourism

Free Local Historical Walking Tours Start in April By Teresa Todd, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association 6 at 8:00 AM

Enjoy the spring weather and find out about the history of our town!

Athens Cruise In on the Square - Apr 6 at 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM

The Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association announces its April Historic Walking Tours to be held each Saturday in April (April 6, 13, 20, and 27). Walkers should meet at the Athens Visitors Center, 100 North Beaty Street, (corner of Beaty and Market Streets by the duck pond) at 9:45 AM. The walks will begin promptly at 10:00 AM and will last approximately one hour. Alabama is the only state in the nation to hold statewide, simultaneous walking tours. Tourism President Jeanette Jones said, “We have had over 800 walkers since Athens started participating in the state walks in 2006 and they keep increasing in popularity every year.” “Walkers may choose one of 5 different walks each Saturday in April.” The walks are free and open to the public. It’s a great way for children to learn about local history. Groups are welcome. Experience the culture and history of Athens by taking one of the walks. Tour 1: Historic Down-

Page 8

Athens State’s Athenian Players to present The Glass Menagerie - April 11–13 and Apr 19–20 at 7:30 PM Confederate Memorial Ceremony - Apr 19 at 2:00 PM Singing on the Square Apr 19 at 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM The Limestone County Master Gardeners Annual Plant Sale – Apr 20 at 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

town Athens Square Tour 2: Beaty Historic District, Washington Street and Old Town Cemetery

1818 Farms Spring Sheep Shearing Party - Apr 20 at 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM

Tour 3: Athens State University, Big Spring Memorial Park and College Inn

Earth Day Celebration and Outdoor EXPO Apr 20 at 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Tour 4 – City Cemetery

Southern Crossroads 8th Annual Best Buckin’ BBQ Cook-off - Apr 26 & 27

Tour 5 – Houston Historic District Local residents serving as guides will share personal remembrances and tall tales from the old days as well as the history of their respective walk. OTHER EVENTS YOU MAY WANT TO ENJOY DURING APRIL INCLUDE:

Alabama Veterans Museum Coffee Call - Apr 6 at 8:00 AM Athens Historic Walking

Tours - Apr 6, 13, 20, 27 at 10:00 AM Chick-fil-A Connect Race Series: Athens, AL - April

Athens Cars & Bikes on the Square - Apr 27 at 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM followed by free live entertainment 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM Community Unsung Heroes Awards - Apr 27 at 5:00 PM For more information on the above event or other events and attractions in Athens-Limestone, visit the Athens Visitors Center located at 100 North Beaty Street or call 256232-5411. Information is also posted on our website - www.visitathensal.com.

www.athensnowal.com

April 5 - April 18, 2013

Special Feature

Athens Garden Club Annual Scholarship Drive Coming April 27th On The Square by Angie DuBois

On Saturday, April 27th, from 7am to 1pm, members of the Athens Garden Club are hosting a bake sale fundraiser for their annual scholarship drive. One hundred percent of the bake sale proceeds will go to one deserving Limestone County student who will earn the $1,000 scholarship. The bake sale will take place in front of Pablo’s, and baked offerings will include custom created baked goods from the award-winning Bakery at Elkmont. Also, the ladies from the Garden Club will be making some homemade cupcakes, cookies, brownies, cakes, and fried pies.

concrete birdbath from Sutton’s furniture, a metal centerpiece University of Alabama football from Rustic River, and one large scoop of mulch from the Athens-Limestone Farmer’s Co-op. This bake sale will coincide with the Athens An-

nual Car Show, so after purchasing some delicious, baked-with-love delights, treat yourself by viewing over 800 antique cars beautifully displayed on the Square by their owners. Students planning on applying for the scholarship must see their school counselor

immediately for an application. Last day to apply is Friday, April 12th.

We look forward to seeing you there on the Square!

At 12pm, guest auctioneer, Donnie Cornelison, will auction off some signature prizes to include: a 3-day weekend retreat at a local Tennessee River Vacation home, a showpiece

April 5 - April 18, 2013

www.athensnowal.com

Page 9

DMS015 Tailgater Print Ads DMS 8.5x11 FINAL.pdf

12/27/12

3:51 PM

TAKE TAILGATER

WHEREVER YOUR WEEKEND TAKES YOU

PORTABLE SATELLITE DISH

AND HIGH-DEFINITION RECEIVER

ITH S W ME K R WO ISH HO ION RD YOU SCRIPT H S U B I T H D IS O G OR W S-YOUA PAY PLAN

Supports HD and SD programming Quick and easy set-up Lightweight for easy transportation

Compact to ﬁt any space Weather-resistant cover Integrated security bracket

SOUTHERN SATELLITES 256-232-6445 26978 US HWY 72 #A ATHENS, AL 35613 Limit one receiver per antenna. With DISH home subscription, additional $7/mo receiver fee may apply. For Pay-As-You-Go service, all charges, including monthly programming, pay-per-view and equipment upgrades, must be paid in advance; failure to pay by due date will lead to service disconnection within 24 hours. All prices, packages, programming, features, functionality and offers subject to change without notice. State reimbursement charges may apply. Additional restrictions apply. Offer ends 5/21/13.

DMS015 Tailgater Print Ads DMS 8.5x11 FINAL.indd 1

Page 10

12/27/12 2:57 PM

www.athensnowal.com

April 5 - April 18, 2013

What Makes Ronnie Roll

The True Meaning Of March Madness by Ali Elizabeth Turner

ketball. He would have them practice “cutting the nets,” the time honored tradition of basketball teams that have just won a championship. In many circles the net means more than the actual trophy. He would also have them practice putting him up on their shoulders so he could make the final snip and forever separate the net from the rim and take it home as the spoils of war.

By the time this edition of Athens Now finally gets delivered, the last of the NCAA Basketball Tournament season affectionately known as “March Madness” will be nearly culminated, and a new winning team will be crowned. It will also herald the annual opening of our own Sportsplex on Hwy 31, the place where kids play hard, get skinned knees and road rash, bruised elbows and egos, and if done right, something else much more important occurs: they grow on the inside.

Being a part of a sports team is a personal development program for kids and adults thinly Coack Jimmy V at the 1993 Espy Awards disguised as a game. And few people knew and then was hired to coach discouraged players, that better than legendary basketball coach Jimmy at North Carolina State, a unhappy parents, critiValvano, better known as school whose win to lose cal staff members and ratio was legendarily less alumni, and little to no “Jimmy V.” than pathetic. Jimmy had his job security. Jimmy V coached at Rutgers, work cut out for him: he had What was more, he did

things that back in the day were considered anything from stupid to sinister: he taught his players to “see” what had never occurred: an NCAA crown. Mayor Marks told me about some of the “crazy” (back then) things Jimmy would do that now are so main stream. He would have them practice without a bas-

April 5 - April 18, 2013

www.athensnowal.com

He built up his boys, turned them into men, and they did the impossible:

30 years ago the Wolf pack went up against legends such as Michael Jordan and won the championship. As important as that accomplishment was, ten years later Jimmy V won the Arthur Ashe Award from ESPN, and was so sick

from cancer that he threw up on the plane all the way to the gala. In addition, he had to be helped up to the stage. To watch his acceptance speech is nothing short of miraculous, even if you could care less about basketball. It was as though for one last time the Coach coached the audience as though they were all his team, and challenged them to live a life far beyond the extraordinary by doing such things as laughing and

thinking on a daily basis. He also announced the formation of the Jimmy V Foundation, which has raised more than 100 million dollars for cancer research.

We may not all be Jimmy Vs, nor may the kids who grace the grass of the Sportsplex end up being the Wolf pack, but if we model for our kids the kind of sportsmanship and healthy respect for the leadership skills that are learned between first and third base, Athens will continue to be a marvelous place to live. And, “making it so” is one of the many things that makes Ronnie Roll.

Page 11

Clean and Green

Earth Day Celebration And Outdoor Expo... Your family won’t want to miss this! by Lynne Hart

Long before the weather showed signs of warming and trees began

Saturday, April 20, 2013 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Big Spring Memorial Park (Duck Pond in Athens) Weather Location: Limestone County Event Center

Coosa River Science School

Birds of Prey Presentation with Live Raptors Reptile and Amphibian Presentation with Live Critters

Meet the Author and Book Signing

Heather L. Montgomery, MS in Environmental Education and Author of children's books including her newest WILD DISCOVERIES: WACKY NEW ANIMALS

Natural Horsemanship - Jim Swanner of K.I.N. Stables

Jim will provide information and perform with his special horse, Rosie!

Free Take-Home Recycled Crafts and Activities for the Kids Athens-Limestone County Tourism Outdoor Expo

Joining Earth Day to showcase Limestone County’s outdoor trails and activities. Walk through the vendors and you may find that fishing pole, ball bat, hiking shoes, etc. that you’ve been looking for.

Electronics Collection, Document Shredding (Self-Serve)

Exhibits and Demonstrations Free Admission, Hot Dogs, Pepsi, and Treats!

Free Door Prizes! www.Legacyenved.org

Information: 256·233·8728

to bloom, KALB staff and volunteers were thinking about our Earth Day Celebration. We get very excited about this event because of what we are able to offer back to our community. Thanks to the wonderful businesses and individuals that are sponsoring the event this year, we will again offer all activities, food, and door prizes free of charge! This is important to us because we want all families, no matter what their financial situation, to be able to come and enjoy this day of fun and learning. The people of Athens and Limestone County have made great changes over the last 10 years in their appreciation and concern for our environment. We know that the majority of people will do the right thing when they know the facts and the consequences of their actions. Educating children and adults about human impact on the en-

We believe the Earth Day Celebration fills that need for education. Bringing the people, exhibitors, educators, and fun together equals change of hearts and minds. We don’t preach, we teach and that makes all the difference. This year, the Tourism Board is teaming up with KALB to offer an Outdoor Expo at our Earth Day Celebration. These exhibitors will focus on products, services, or experiences connected with outdoor activities available in Limestone County. For more information about this event or how to register as an exhibitor (must have product, service, or information pertaining to litter abatement, recycling/recycled products, community greening, or healthy lifestyles), contact us. We want to hear from you!

(256) 233-8728 KeepALBeautiful@att.net

KeepALBeautiful@att.net www.KeepAthensLimestoneBeautiful.com

Become a Fan

Page 12

vironment is critical to behavior change.

www.athensnowal.com

www.KeepAthensLimestoneBeautiful.com

April 5 - April 18, 2013

Cooking with Shelley

Creamy Fruit Salsa & Simply Naked Pita Chips by Shelley Underhill I came up with this version of fruit salsa a few weeks back. After checking the Internet, I was positive that such a dish did exist! Their were several types, all yummy looking. The difference between the others and mine is that I bathed this version in a sour cream dressing. I also used Stevia to sweeten the sour cream. Thus cutting back on a few calories:)

such a thing with the Simply Naked pita chips... Try it out on your family and friends! I am sure they will enjoy it as much as mine did. You can email your questions to shelleysdesk@gmail.com

Then, I set out to find the perfect chip for dipping. I found

What you will need: 2 Kiwi fruit - peeled and sliced thin 1 Can pineapple chunks - in its own juice - drained well 1 Can mandarin oranges - drained * Mix fruit together Dressing 1 cup sour cream 1 tbsp Stevia * Mix sour cream and Stevia together well, then mix with fruit. This salsa is best when served cold. Dip with pita chips and enjoy!

www.facebook.com/ElkmontBakery

April 5 - April 18, 2013

www.athensnowal.com

Page 13

Page 14

www.athensnowal.com

April 5 - April 18, 2013

Cover Story

Valley Pools Of Athens: Service, Saltwater Conversion Systems, And “Aquasilk” by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

largely because they have “found the people of Athens to be so welcoming and friendly.” They love both our small town feel and the fact that Athens is a fast-growing community. The Madison store has been very successful, in spite of the recent economic downturn. They concluded that Athenians were pleasant to work with and there was a real need for quality pool supplies and service in the area; took a risk and opened the new store in Athens. In the last year word has spread that the service at Valley Pools is exceptional, business has been brisk, and they are gearing up for the 2013 pool season. On April 19th, from 11am to 1pm, the Athens store will be hosting an exciting workshop on basic pool and spa water chemistry. With the ever-changing technology of maintaining a pool, (particularly with the advent of salt water conversion systems), Valley Pools felt the no-cost workshop would be beneficial to current and future pool owners. As part of Valley Pools ongoing customer service program, they will provide a no-cost “101” class with GLB Rep, Wayne Dugger, on hand to offer his expertise. There will also be plenty of Valley Pools satisfied customers to speak about their experience with service and products. In addition, those attending can receive 20% off pool chemicals purchased that day. You must RSVP in advance to register for the class by calling 256-771-2990. Ronny Hughes installed his first saltwater conversion system over 10 years ago. Since then, Valley Pools has

April 5 - April 18, 2013

installed over 1500 systems, more than any other pool company in the area. Ronny states, “The days of using chlorine are coming to an end because saltwater is superior in so many ways. Saltwater is the wave of the future.” Any pool owner knows that there is the constant need to test the pool’s Ph, and routinely adding chemicals in order to keep everything in balance. Salt-water conversion systems drastically simplify this process. Storing chlorine can be dangerous, and chlorine imbalance can cause stinging of the eyes, cloudy water, swim wear discoloration, dry skin and often an unpleasant smell. By contrast, the amount of salt used in a saltwater filtration system is virtually unnoticeable and totally safe

to store. Water treated with the salt-water conversion system is gentler to the skin, more transparent with virtually no irritation or dryness of the skin nor discoloration to swimwear. Although the initial cost to convert to the salt-water purifier is substantial, it doesn’t take long for the conversion to pay for itself by the reduction in the cost of chemicals. On average a pool that holds 40,000 gallons of water can be treated with the salt-water conversion system for less than $100, compared to the cost of chlorine at $300 - $500 annually. Additionally, the average time spent to maintain a salt-water filtrated pool is drastically reduced in comparison to a chlorinetreated pool. During the month of April, Valley Pools is offering a complimentary supply of salt with purchase of a salt water conversion system.

www.athensnowal.com

Valley Pools is excited to introduce another chlorine alternative-- the Aquasilk Pool Care System. This product line

is chlorine free, highly stable, and is an effective alternative to traditional pool sanitizers. It is designed for swimmers who have sensitive skin, and is also gentle on hair. The Aquasilk Pool Care System is a three-step system that includes a sanitizer, hydrogen peroxide-based shock to oxidize organic compounds, and an algaecide. The Aquasilk system is not affected by sunlight, temperature or pH fluctuations. It is the exact equivalent to the more familiar product line, Baquacil, and promotes crystal clear pool water. For a limited time, Aquasilk is being offered at a 25% discount. You can learn more about this product line by attending the April 19th class. So, if you are in the market for a pool, supplies, or to convert to saltwater, I do believe the folks at Valley Pools are a great fit. Come see them at:

Athens

200 French Farms Boulevard, Suite C Athens, AL 35611 256-771-2990 Hours for Athens store: Mon-Fri 9:30-6, Sat 10-2

Madison

7467 US Hwy 72 • Madison, AL 35758 www.valleypoolsofmadison.com 256-536-8008 Hours for Madison store: Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-1

Page 15

Page 16

www.athensnowal.com

April 5 - April 18, 2013

Cover Story

Celebrate Recovery: Healing For The Hurting by Ali Elizabeth Turner

continued from page 1

enormously funny. As with so many of us, believers or otherwise, they were secretly what could be considered “walking wounded.” What do I mean by that? Christians who know the Word, are in the Word, give, pray, minister, “do all the right things,” and the “abundant life” for which our Savior paid such a hideous price seems to continually elude them. Or, they have tried church and for whatever reason are burned out and isolated. Perhaps they never have walked with God, and began to be beaten up by life and the enemy a long time ago through divorce, sexual abuse, or other things that broke their hearts. It really doesn’t matter, because they are your neighbors, your co-workers, your clergy, and the guy who mows your lawn. They are either howling with pain inside, or they may have gone numb. They may or may not be in outward trouble, but inside, now that’s another story. Sometimes they have a battle with actual substances, sometimes it’s just that despite their best efforts, nothing in relationships with themselves, others, or their Maker is working, and they live what has come to have been called “lives of quiet desperation.” In the Sanders’ case, substances were not a part of the problem, but codependency and despair certainly were, and Jan came to the place where she couldn’t “fake it” one more moment.

April 5 - April 18, 2013

She reached out to the ministry team at Friendship Methodist Church in Athens, and they suggested she become a part of Celebrate Recovery. “CR” (as it is referred to with affection by

ter, etc, to simply a child of God who is loved. “I began to learn to connect the dots between what I ‘knew,’ and what I believed.” She went by herself for two years, and Dick began to notice chang-

living far below his birthright as a child of the King. I asked him about one of the biggest fears he had to face, and he told me, “Being shy.” He had always felt that was “just the way God made me,” and found that so much of what he did, even good stuff, was fear based. “Anything that hinders or that is a stumbling block to the abundant life has to go.” Neither Dick or Jan ever expected to go from being people who introduce themselves in CR meetings as “Hi, I am Dick/Jan, and I am a grateful believer,” to becoming ministry facilitators, but that’s what happened. They want to let the community know that CR is both beneficial and available to all, and at the moment they have about 30 “CR-ers” in their group. They meet on Friday nights at Friendship North, locat-

those who are a part of it,) is an international transdenominational program that is based on the famous “12 Steps” of Alcoholics Anonymous, as well as a relentless search and application of the Beatitudes, the “blessed are the……”/ Sermon on the Mount statements we learned as kids in Sunday School. Celebrate Recovery was started around 20 years ago by a guy named John Baker, himself a recovering alcoholic. It is Christ centered because the Higher Power is an actual person with a name! Jan had to get real, at times got “raw,” and began to move away from trying to define herself as a devoted wife, mother, sibling, daugh-

es in her that were “way in the deep down.” He, like so many guys, thought he was just fine, and began to attend CR on Friday nights because he was tired of being at home alone. He wasn’t feeling the crunch or the crisis, and just wanted to be with his wife. What he began to discover, however, was that he wasn’t ok, that there were fears in his life that were holding him back, and that he was

www.athensnowal.com

ed on the corner of Easter Ferry Road and Witty Mill Road. They are “peer led, donation supported,” and the Sanders are on staff as a part of Friendship Church’s community ministry outreach. CR is considered to be another worship opportunity offered by Friendship. Dick and Jan’s “boss” is Steve Dorning, Executive Pastor at Friendship. Friday nights start with a light supper at 6:15 pm,

followed by worship and teaching at 7 pm, small groups at 8pm, and coffee and dessert following. Most times they are finished by 9pm. Jan says that “CR is the best place to be on Friday nights!” CR also has a prison ministry called CR Inside. Jan says, “I love those women, and love being with them. I get them, and they get me!” Toward the end of April they will also start a 6-9 month in depth study of all the Steps, and it will be on Wednesday nights. April will also bring the premiere of a CR inspired film centered around the recovery story of a baseball player. It’s entitled “Home Run,” starring Scott Elrod as Cory Brand, the ball player, and Vivica Fox as his agent, Helene Landy. It is being publicized as a “substance abuse redemption drama,” and in our

area will be at Monaco Pictures. If you are looking for a safe place to get help, I do believe that Celebrate Recovery is for you. Remember, recovery is something from which everyone can benefit, because everyone has something from which to recover. For more info, or to become a part of Celebrate Recovery, call Dick Sanders at 256-867-4234 and leave a message.

Page 17

Health and Fitness

Top 10 reasons why older adults should exercise by Janet Hunt

Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment.

From the American Council on Exercise (ACE)

joint range of motion and functional movement

It’s becoming increasingly clear to the medical community that it’s just as important for older adults to stay active as it is for their younger counterparts. Exercise helps maintain mobility and stamina, reduces the incidence of disease, and leads to an overall better quality of life. ACE, America’s Authority on Fitness, shares the following reasons why older adults need to get plenty of safe and appropriate exercise.

Physical activities that require the body to go through the full range of movement helps keep the body flexible and mobile. Circulation is also increased. 10. To improve cardiovascular strength

Cardiovascular exercise helps maintain a healthy heart and cardiovascular system reducing the risk of heart disease. Appropriate physical training has shown improvements in most aspects of cardiovascular functioning.

1. To increase bone density and prevent Osteoporosis As we live longer lives, Osteoporosis is affecting an ever-larger number of elderly – becoming one of the major health problems associated with old age. It affects some 20 million women and 5 million men and leads to more than 250,000 hip fractures each year. Exercise delays the onset of Osteoporosis by increasing bone strength. 2. To improve self-efficiency and maintain independence One of the top concerns of the elderly is losing control, becoming dependent or a burden to someone. Exercise helps older adults maintain a greater capacity to undertake the activities of daily living.

and improve reflexes to decrease falls

6. To improve pulmonary function

8. To help prevent and regulate diabetes

As adults age there is a natural decline in balance and coordination. This can be postponed and even prevented with proper strength and balance training.

Pulmonary function declines with age due to the degeneration of the vertebral disks, which alters the shape of the thoracic cavity. Physical activity, which decreases the amount of vertebral degeneration and increases the strength of the thoracic cavity, may lead to improved pulmonary function.

Aerobic exercise has shown to be an important means of preventing and treating non insulin-dependent diabetes by helping regulate blood glucose levels.

5. To create a sense of community or feeling of belonging Exercise groups enhance social interactions for many older adults who may not otherwise leave their homes. New friendships are also stimulated during group exercise gatherings.

9. To improve flexibility,

Janet Hunt (ACE Certified Instructor and Silver Sneaker Flex Instructor) offers classes on MWF at 8:30 a.m. at Athens’ Senior Center on Pryor St. For more information, contact Janet by telephone (256614-3530) or email jhunt1@ pclnet.net.

7. To boost mood Exercise reduces the incidence of depression and improves self-esteem while providing a feeling of accomplishment.

3. To increase metabolism Strength training increases muscle mass, which elevates metabolism. This may also lead to a reduction in overall body fat percentage. 4. To maintain balance

Page 18

www.athensnowal.com

April 5 - April 18, 2013

Like me on

The World According To Will

The Will Anderson Show M-F 6pm-8pm on 800 and 1230AM and 106.5FM WBHP

Remembering Terri Schiavo And Her Story’s Life Lesson by Will Anderson

In her book “Ballad for Baghdad,” Ali Turner (who, incidentally, is the editor of this stellar newspaper,) begins her chapter on Terri Schiavo with a quotation from Thomas Jefferson: “The first duty of government is the protection of life, not its destruction. The chief purpose of government is to protect life. Abandon that and you have abandoned all.” So why devote a chapter to the tragedy of the Terri Schiavo story in a book written, in part, to pay homage to the bravest among us—our soldiers— who risk everything to protect our liberty? Ali explains based on a conversation she had with one of our soldiers who she got to know well while in Iraq. “The fastest, fullest way to break a normal man in interrogation has nothing to do with causing him physical pain or inducing fear in him. Rather, it is to bring in a woman, rape her while he’s forced to watch, and then to really finish him off and break him, finish her off and kill her…men are indeed hard-wired to protect and defend women.” The first cousin of the above maxim could be that some of us, men and women, value life, and will do everything within our reach to protect, preserve, and save it. I haven’t been to Iraq, but last year, I had an automobile accident which nearly took my life. Unlike Terri, I was on a ventilator— i.e. I came closer to dying naturally than Terri Schiavo did. My body was so beaten up that it took sev-

April 5 - April 18, 2013

eral days before the doctors could begin to repair it. The first objective was keeping me alive. The remarkable doctors at Vanderbilt saved my life and my legs, even as the prognosis was that I probably wouldn’t make it. Today I’m walking ahead of schedule, and the consensus among the amazing doctors who saved my life is that I will fully recover. I’ll probably be able to predict the weather based on knee pain that comes and goes for the rest of my life, but I’m alive, thanks to those who repaired my body with a determination to preserve my life. I had the privilege to interview Bobby Schindler (Terri’s brother) this week on my radio show. We talked about his sister’s story, and how his passion for the sanctity of life blossomed based on the heartwrenching experience of having a court decide the fate of a loved one. And then Bobby said something that almost caused me to break down mid-show. He told me that he prayed for his former brother-inlaw, Michael Schiavo. As Christians, of course, it is our duty to pray for our enemies. That’s easier said than done. My internal reaction was, WOW. I’m not sure that I could pray for a man who effectively engineered my sister’s demise. When I asked him to elaborate, he said, (and I paraphrase,) that if Michael were to have a change of heart and realize that what

a few. Along the way, though, we would all serve ourselves well by remembering Jefferson’s words—that the chief purpose of government is protecting life. The Schindler family’s experience, and their magnanimous ability to forgive for the sake of preservhe did was wrong, he would have the chance to change the hearts of others with regard to the sanctity of life. Today’s headlines challenge the most pathological of optimists. Our debt is soaring; North Korea’s recalcitrance seems sincere; the nation is preoccupied with debates about

www.athensnowal.com

gay marriage, guns, and immigration, just to name

ing life, is an inspirational blueprint for the rest of us.

Page 19

Dog Barker

Tears Shed But Unseen by Joel Allen

Early every workday morning while you are leaving Athens going toward Huntsville on Hwy 72, there is the sound of howling and barking. It is the Athens Dog Pound, and you would hear it if the noise from the road was not so loud. The cries you would hear are those of dogs and cats waiting for a loving family to rescue them, or the end of their life at needle point. Now enters a heroine. It is 8:00 am, and she walks into her place of work to see how many dogs and cats have been caught by the Animal Control Officer or abandoned by their one time pet parents, who, for whatever reason, could not continue to care for

Page 20

and love them. This is the daily routine of the Director for the Athens Dog Pound, Priscilla

Blankenship. She comes in to find a daily average mix of cats and dogs. That average comes to approximately 15 animals a day during the spring. It is different with each season. Approximately 5 of these have a family. Priscilla stated to the Dog Barker, “More often than not, many people do not check the Pound for their family pets.” If you are missing your family pet, check the Pound! The

www.athensnowal.com

animals caught by the Animal Control are kept on a 5 day stray hold, but those turned in by their families can be euthanized on the same day if there is no room. Also, by the end of the stray hold, they could be euthanized should they not be picked up or adopted by a family. Now close your eyes and imagine you are in Priscilla’s shoes. You are in charge of the Pound and one of your many duties is to decide who lives or dies today. Regardless of the health or bloodline of the animal, your job is to choose whether they will live or die. Let’s take it a step further, look at your canine or feline family member and pretend they are the ones facing a chance of being euthanized by you because there is no room

at your facility. Not so easy, huh? So, some of you are probably saying things like, “I never knew that!” or “How can I help?” Well, here is how you can help. Go see Priscilla at the dog pound and ask her what the Pound needs. I can tell you that they need volunteers and foster parents for the pets. If you can foster just one, then that would take a huge burden off the Pound. If you are going to make excuses though, then marinate on this, “What is the maximum effective range of an excuse?!” I used to say as far as I could throw it. In which case, I did a lot of pushups for that answer, ha ha. “OPT TO ADOPT!” “Remember to love your dogs because they love you. Maybe not the way you want them to, like chewing up your favorite shoes or what not, but that is just love chewing. Be thankful for the time you have with them always.”

Joel and Zues Allen 256-651-2211

April 5 - April 18, 2013

Medical Update

Shoulder Pain Shoulder pain is a common complaint among working individuals in the middle age range. Shoulder pain can occur with injury or without injury. Of the middle age group of patients, doctors see patients more often who report â&#x20AC;&#x153;no injuryâ&#x20AC;? than in patients who report injury. The most common scenario for patients who present to the office with shoulder complaints is a 55 year old patient who states the shoulder started hurting and the pain has persisted despite time, rest and over the counter anti-inflammatories. These patients often complain of pain at night when they try to sleep and pain with certain movements of the shoulder, especially over the head motion. They often seek medical attention to find that they have an injury to the rotator cuff. What is the rotator cuff and why does it hurt without an injury? The rotator cuff is a group of tendons that come together as a group to cause movement of the shoulder in different directions. The most common injury pattern is one that starts with bursitis and tendon irritation. This often results from a deconditioned rotator cuff muscle that allows the rotator cuff to become weak. This results in a mechanical impingement of the tendon on the surrounding bone of the shoulder that causes the irritation. Sometimes we

April 5 - April 18, 2013

By Dr. Patrick Boyett, Orthopedic Surgeon

call this impingement. If the rotator cuff tendon is allowed to continue to rub the bone then it can ulti-

then you should not have the surgery. This recovery is more involved and often takes a few months to fully

mately cause a rotator cuff tear. This is how people develop rotator cuff tears without injury.

recover.

The treatment for rotator cuff tendonitis and bursitis is anti-inflammatory medication, possibly a shoulder injection with a steroid, and a physical therapy regimen of exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff. If this fails then often your surgeon will recommend a shoulder scope, which allows for removal of any bone impingement (bone spurs) and resection of inflamed bursa. This is always followed by physical therapy. This type of shoulder surgery generally responds quicker, and recovery is faster.

Other patients who have non-traumatic shoulder complaints may have arthritis. Fortunately the shoulder is a non weightbearing joint, and can tol-

erate more arthritis than weight bearing joints such as the knee or hip. Nonetheless, patients can still get arthritis in the shoulder that causes pain. A common location for this is the AC joint (collar bone joint). This often causes pain when the patient does movements across the midline of the body and sometimes with overhead activity. The pain is located in the front of the shoulder. Sometimes, injections can help but more often this requires a surgery performed through the scope, that allows the surgeon to clean out the joint through the scope, which alleviates the pain. These patients recover faster and require less intense physical therapy during recovery.

Lastly, some patients present with arthritis to the ball and socket joint (Glenohumeral joint). This is treated primarily with injections and ultimately with joint replacement surgery when symptoms get bad enough. It very common for patients to have a combination of these problems and often times your surgeon will address multiple problems with one surgery.

OrthoSports Athens 256.233.2332

In the case when there is tearing of the rotator cuff, then surgery is almost always recommended to perform repair of the torn tendon. Physical therapy is a significant part of the recovery and always necessary. If you cannot undergo physical therapy after this type of surgery,

www.athensnowal.com

Page 21

Page 22

www.athensnowal.com

April 5 - April 18, 2013

Security Savvy

Protecting Your Home Part II by Brian Black of Madison Security Group In a previous article we talked about ways to protect your home. One layer of protection mentioned was to have a monitored security system. There are many reasons for having one, and we will mention just a few in this article.

case of a fire. There are other features that security systems offer, and even if these features cost

a little more, they are worth it. You can get sensors that monitor for CO2 and heat. If you want to

go big, you can have “nanny cams” placed throughout the house to look in on your family

One aspect that is rarely mentioned is the deterrent factor of a monitored security system. Much like having Security Officers on site deter criminal activity, placing the security sign in your yard and on your doors and windows will deter a would-be criminal from entering your home. But please do not try and just go buy signs and stickers. It’s a neat trick, but you are playing with the lives of your loved ones. It’s not worth it. Just get the system.

One is what is known as Life Safety. We all know the basic uses of a security system are to monitor for burglary and fire. While these two items are important, we don’t want to limit their effectiveness to protection of property. “Things” can be replaced. However, with burglary protection, you are discouraging home invasion, which could put your family in danger. With fire protection, you will hopefully have enough warning to get your family to safety in while you are at work. With technology continually increasing, the possibilities are limited only to your imagination. On the same thought, a service not widely discussed is emergency medical response. Most monitored security systems are equipped to call for emergency medical responders with the simple touch of a panic button on the key pad, or on a pendant which is worn. This is especially beneficial for the sick and/ or elderly that may be home alone. Depending on the specific features of the system, there may be two way communications between the person having the problem and

April 5 - April 18, 2013

the monitoring system’s dispatch center. This will help prevent the “Help! I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” moment from being a tragedy.

www.athensnowal.com

There is one other consideration regarding having a monitored security system, if you are worried about the cost. Depending on your insurance company and policy, you can receive a discount on your Home Owners policy of 10 – 15% or more. Again, don’t be cheap; don’t get a system and not get the monitoring. Without the monitoring part, all you have is just a loud noise maker. Monitoring is the key to these discounts.

Let me state at this point, NO security system is infallible. It is only a tool. It is a very useful tool, but none the less, it is only a tool. It is up to you to use it as such.

I hope this helps. Look for the next part in this series on Protecting Your Home.

Page 23

Jerry’s Journal

Across the Purple Sage Part 8 by Jerry Barksdale Visiting the Great Sand Dunes – America’s version of the Sahara Desert - is never a good idea in the middle of July. Nevertheless, we breakfasted early and headed north out of Taos toward Alamosa, Colorado. My friend and sometimes red-head Pat, and I had visited the Dunes the previous November when the sand was cool. Bonnie Pitts, of Tanner, was at the wheel of the Chrysler Caravan, the red-heads, Pat and Penni were in the back, and I rode shotgun and acted as guide. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains rose up to our right like a purple wall. “Sangre de Cristo means blood of Christ,” I said to 12-year-old Leslie Pitts. “Spanish Conquistadors thought they were the color of blood.” To know the past is to predict the future. Leslie understands that when he’s around me he has to endure a short history lesson whether he likes it or not. “The Spanish came to this area in the 1500’s

looking for the Seven Cities of Gold,” I said, “and they brought with them priests to convert the Indians to Christianity. They didn’t find the Cities of Gold and they didn’t convert the Indians, but they did burn a few at the stake.” On our left was a wide sage brush plain as far as the eye could see, interrupted by an occasional brown butte and mesa. “Look!” Leslie pointed to a band of horses. “They’re wild mustangs,” I said. The San Luis Valley funnels north into southern Colorado and bumps up against rugged mountain peaks, Mount Blanca being the tallest at 14,345 feet. At the base of the peaks are 330 square miles of sand dunes, the highest rising 450 feet. At the Dunes, Leslie grabbed a plastic sled that Pat had purchased for him to slide down the dunes and we began our trek to the top. I danced on the hot sand to keep it from burning my feet. It was so hot that it melted the soles of a

woman’s Nikes. Not surprisingly, the plastic sled didn’t perform well on the burning sand. On the fun scale, the adventure was one click short of visiting Hades. I was about to melt. Bonnie and I headed down to find shade. A gaggle of Boy Scouts who had been camping out in the nearby wilderness hurried past us jabbering about what they were going to eat when they reached civilization. “I’m eating three Big Mac’s,” one said. “I’m having four and lots of fries,” said another. The following morning, Shannon, who had worked as a river guide doing float trips down the Rio Grande called and made reservations for us with Los Rios River Runners. “I recommend going with Sysco,” she said. “He’s married to Angelica Houston’s sister.” “The actress Angelica Houston?” I asked. “Yep, if you’re lucky enough to ride with Sysco, it’ll be a hoot.” The Rio Grande begins life high in the mountains

of southern Colorado and flows south through a 500 – 800 foot gorge west of Taos. Shannon recommended that we take a scenic back road to the departure site. The road, a white knuckle dirt one, was dusty with hairpin curves that snaked down to the river. Not even a reckless teenager would have dared texting on that deadly road. At the river’s edge we were instructed on safety, issued a paddle and a life jacket and assigned to rubber raft. Luckily, we drew Sysco, a friendly fellow with a black beard. Sysco operated the tiller and issued a torrent of instructions to paddlers. Sometimes he ordered us to paddle backward to avoid rushing holes of turbulent water; or ordered one side to paddle forward while the other side paddled backward. “Left forward – right backward.” It was confusing. “Your other left,” he would shout. Most of us were wet and cold before long, but Leslie was smiling and having a good time. We stopped at an edding pool where the water was smooth and the sun warm. Sysco told us about some “Crazy Texans” (a local term that applies to all Texans) who, with no experience purchased rubber rafts at Walmart and plenty of beer and attempted to run the most dangerous part of the river during spring when the water was high and swift. “One of them was to be married the following day,” Sysco said. “Poor fellow was never seen again. Search parties couldn’t find him.”

Page 24

www.athensnowal.com

“How awful!” someone exclaimed. I checked my life preserver and tightened the straps. “About a year later a river runner spotted a piece of cloth wedged against a boulder,” said Sysco.“When he pulled it out a human foot was trapped inside and the shoe still on. It was later determined to be the foot of the young groom-to-be.” “What happened to the foot?” someone asked. “His fiancé carried it back to Texas, held a funeral and buried it,” replied Sysco. “Ohhh, how sweet.” A woman said. I was doubtful. It was too good a tale to be true. “Yeah, it’s what you call having one foot in the grave,” Sysco deadpanned. Now, I was more doubtful. Sysco let Leslie get out in the water to dog-paddle. I looked down and he was smiling, white teeth gleaming. “Well, is this a GolleeShazam moment?” I asked him. “Yes sir, Mister Jerry, it sure is.” Later, Shannon confirmed that Sysco was telling the truth – the “Crazy Texans” had drowned and only his foot was found, which unfortunately was buried. So, there really is such a thing as one foot in the grave! -To be Continued –

April 5 - April 18, 2013