Athens Now Alabama 7-20-2012 by Alabama Biz Finder

July 20 - August 2, 2012

athensnowal.com E-MAIL: info@athensnowal.com ADVERTISING: 256-468-9425

Re-Elect Mayor Ronnie Marks For Positive, Professional Leadership By Ali Elizabeth Turner It has been nearly a year since I walked up to Mayor Marks at an event that was being held at the Veterans’ Museum, and asked if he would be interested in doing an interview twice a month for Athens Now. My idea was to publish something that would resemble the comfortableness of the “Fireside Chats” that were started by FDR during the roughest economic time in our country, and made legendary by Ronald Reagan during the same type of era in the ‘80s. He liked the idea, we began to meet at his office every two weeks on Monday mornings, and I quickly became a woman who is genuinely thankful that he is our mayor. I have found Continued on pages 15

Teddy Wolcott And The Little Search Engine That Could By Ali Elizabeth Turner My entrance into the 21st century re: the use of facebook, twitter and even understanding the full potential of having an online version of Athens Now has been a painfully slow one, that is, until Teddy Wolcott came into my life. Teddy, at 71 years young and who deContinued on page 16

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Publisher’s Point

Publisher / Editor

The Passing Of Stephen Covey

Ali Turner

Contributing Writers Shelley Underhill Janet Hunt Wanda Campbell Lynne Hart Jeanette Dunnavant Deb Kitchenmaster Jim Doyle Will Anderson Sarah Chadwell Christine Marsh

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . . 4 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 5 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . 6 Cooking with Shelley . . . . . . 7 Clean and Green . . . . . . . . 8 Sarah’s Sagas . . . . . . . . . . 9

Dr. Stephen Covey, author of several books including The Seven Habits Of Highly Effective People, died on Monday, July 16th from complications from a bicycle accident. He was 79 years old, in great physical shape, and yes, he was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. His family, which is reminiscent of the tribes of old, was present at his side, and he died surrounded by love. The man was happily married, had nine kids, and 50 grandkids! But what made him so special was that he was just a regular guy, a smart one, to be sure, but someone who used to go riding small motorcycles through the pineapple fields of Hawaii with his wife hanging on for dear life right behind him. Last year his son Sean spoke to local teachers at a conference held at Athens State University, and I had the privilege of hearing him. Stephen spent years researching the lives of people whom he wouldn’t refer to as successful, necessarily, because too often success is associated with money. Rather, he referred to them as “highly effective.” He was all about possessing and developing integrity, as well as the power of the internal, unseen victory

that he believed always preceded the outward public one. Ideas like writing a personal or corporate mission statement, which are a standard in most business cultures today were revolutionary back

•Be Proactive-Take responsibility for your life and actions, refuse to be a victim, and plan ahead.

when they were introduced by Covey in the late ‘80s.

want to be and what you want to do.

His books sold by the millions, were translated into myriad languages, and he travelled the globe until just a few years ago to spread his message. So, what was his message? That essentially a well run life was one that was built upon the following seven habits:

Lifelong Learning . . . . . . . . . 13

Medical Update . . . . . . . . . . 17 Horse Whispering . . . . . . 18 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 19

Security Savvy . . . . . . . . . . 23

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•Think Win Win- Don’t settle for solutions in home or business that don’t benefit everyone. •Seek first to understand, then to be understood.

•Sharpen the Saw- Live with the concept that if you are going to be effective, you must take time to “recharge your batteries” through recreation, creativity and spiritual renewal.

Cover Stories . . . . . . . . . 15-16

World According to Will . . 21

•Put first things first- Plan your week and life based on importance rather than urgency.

•Synergize-Understand that a team accomplishes far more than an individual.

Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Athens Rehab Spotlight . . . 20

•Begin with the end in mindTake the time to become very clear about who it is that you

So effective and practical was his approach that our local schools are now using the Seven Habits for kids, and last year I saw their effect in action. On more than one occasion I wrote about how

they impressed me, and gave me hope for the future of our kids.

By any stretch, Dr. Stephen Covey was a highly effective person, and he will be missed. I, for one, am glad I came to “know” him, if only through his work, and will spend the rest of my life making the Seven Habits my own.

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

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All Things Soldier

Burial Detail And A Few Facts About The Flag by Ali Elizabeth Turner

Recently I had a chance to interview three members of the Burial Detail that are in charge of the military ceremony held at the gravesides of veterans. Their names were J.D. Jones, Tink Haney, and Lyle Sadler. I learned some things, not just about what they do and the need they have for more citizens to become a part of their team, but about the symbolism of the ceremony and the need for the restoration of respect for the flag. Our burial detail is sponsored by the VFW, and is under the supervision of Roger Keyes. Currently there are about 25 members, and it would be ideal to have at least five more in order to keep a rotation going and avoiding burn out, literally, in this summer’s heat. It takes a team of 11 to do a ceremony properly: 7 shooters, a bugler, two to fold the flag that was on the coffin, and one to give the commands so the ceremony goes off with precision. If the deceased is a Marine, for example, at least one member of the team needs to be a Marine as well, and this is true for all the branches of service.

military officers and heads of state. The history of the “21 guns” goes back to the days of the Revolutionary War, and the number 21 was picked because it is the total of the numbers which make up the year

1776. The flag is folded with great care a total of 13 times, signifying the 13 colonies. Each fold has a special meaning, and includes such things as belief in eternal life, honor and remembrance toward the sacrifice of veterans, a tribute to woman and

mothers, and others. Tink also told me that the history behind the three shots fired goes back to the battlefield, where a succession of three fired shots after a cease fire indicated

that the fighting was to resume again after a time of respect for the fallen. Burial Detail members need not be veterans, and they need not be only men. They simply need to be people who have a passionate respect for our veterans and our flag. One

thing that is bothersome to all three men I interviewed is the lack of respect for the flag at games, and to a lesser extent, at funerals. Tink said, “If people can,

they need to stand, and put their hand over their heart. It shows respect both for the flag and the veteran.”

On the lighter and perhaps more practical side, a pet peeve of J.D’s is “long winded preachers.” He has been on duty at graveside services where the detail stood at parade rest for a total of 40 minutes in 100 degree weather. “They were lucky we didn’t faint,” he said. Lyle enjoys being a part of the detail because it “shows respect, and gives me a chance to say thanks.” So far this year they have officiated at over 60 funerals. Tink, who calls out the commands, says that their two jobs are to “follow protocol,” and “to do what the family wants.”

If this sounds like something you’d like to be a part of, your uniform and training will be provided for you, and you can learn more by calling Roger Keyes at 256-374-2072.

In a pinch they can get by with three shooters, and typically three rounds are fired. The full 21 gun salute is reserved for officials like the President,

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July 20 - August 2, 2012

Calendar of Events

Ardmore Crape Myrtle Festival Aug 25

CASA Mud Volleyball Tournament Jul 21

Enter your team early. Registration is underway. Entry deadline is July 11th. Register by July 2nd and receive an event T-shirt. Cost is $15 per player and a team must have a minimum of eight members and two must be females. About 90 teams will be competing for the championship. Proceeds provide services to homebound and elderly citizens. Contact: 256-232-5751, casalimestonecounty.org.

James D. Vaughan Quartet Festival July 26 - 28

At the Crockett Theater in Lawrenceburg, TN (Birthplace of Southern Gospel Music) Shows start at 7pm on July 26 & 27 and at 6pm on July 28. For more info or to order tickets, call 1-800-547-6500. www.lawrenceburgtn.gov. Event sponsored by Main Street, Lawrenceburg, TN.

AL Championship Tractor & Truck Pull Jul 27 & 28

This Tractor Truck Pull is one of the best in the nation. Make your plans today to attend at Tanner High School. Contact: 256-497-4309, 4311292 or 256-233-7077. Fee

Contact: 256-423-7588, ardmorealtnchamber.com Free

AHS Band Cotton Classic Marching Festival Sep 12 at 11 AM

This competition will be an all day event and Marching Bands stretching from Tuscaloosa to Nashville are invited. We are estimating a total of 12-20 bands. The competition will be held in the Athens High School Football Stadium. The Pride of Dixie Marching Band from UNA will perform as the exhibition band at the end of the day, prior to the awards ceremony. Please contact John Hays at telephone 256-998-0158 or email ahscottonclassic@gmail.com

Harvest of Quilts Quilt Show Sep 14-15 at 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sep 16 at 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

The quilt exhibition, vendors, silent auction, door prizes, boutique and bed turning will all be at the Athens State University Ballroom located at 300 N Beaty Street, Athens, AL. Admission for one day is $5.00 or two days $7.00. Hosted by PieceMaker’s Quilt Guild of Athens. Contact Sue Manley 256-233-5346.

Ardmore Police Reserve Rodeo Aug 3 & 4

Singing on the Square Sep 21 at 6:00 PM

Contact: 256-423-2146. Fee

Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the free concert featuring John Martin (upcoming country music entertainer). Contact 256-2325411.

Ardmore Quarterback Club Car Show Aug 11 Contact: 256-423-7588. Fee

Jubilee Reunion Sep 29 at 6:00 PM

Athens Cruise In on the Square Aug 4

The monthly Cruise In is held the 1st Saturday night of each month - Apr - Oct. Bring your antique vehicle and park around the square. Enjoy delicious dishes offered by our downtown restaurants. Come early and check out the great buys at the downtown businesses. Be sure and get you an ice cream cone at Limestone Drug or milk shake at Kreme Delight. Make it a family night. Contact Tom at 256-457-9179.

Enjoy an evening of Southern gospel music at the Midway Baptist Church, 26575 Hwy 72, Athens, AL. This year the concert will feature “New Ground”, an outstanding gospel group. Contact Jimmy Hill at 256-783-4876, www.foundershalljubilee.com.

Spirit of Athens invites you to “A Celebration of All Things Fried” Sep 29

Annual ASU Community Band Concert on the Square Aug 11

Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the free annual concert. Contact: 256-232-5411/256-867-1438. Free

Downtown Athens, AL will be alive and hopping as the Spirit of Athens first annual “Grease Festival - A Celebration of all things Fried”. It’s Toga time! Mark your calendars for a fried food festival and celebration of the Greek origin of our city’s name. Share your ideas, the quirkier the better! Stay tuned for more details. Contact 256-232-9040 or www. spiritofathens.com.

Singing on the Square Aug 17 at 6:00 PM

City Cemetery Walk Sep 30 at 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the free concert featuring Sophisticated Swingers and Piney Creek Bluegrass Boys. Contact: 256-232-5411 Free

July 20 - August 2, 2012

Step back in time and learn about some of the citizens buried at the Athens City Cemetery. Actors will be in garb as they tell about their ancestors. The cemetery is on Hobbs Street. Contact 256-232-2327

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

Choppin’ Cotton In A Crew Cut by Ali Elizabeth Turner

Mayor Ronnie Marks grew up in Ripley, and graduated from High School in 1962, the year, some say, signaled the end of innocence in our country. He, as is the case with so many folks I have met here in Athens, did his chores and homework, played baseball, (2nd base,) pickup basketball, (mostly from the bench,) worked the cotton fields alongside people of any color, and his memories are that “folks were happy. We just all came together and helped each other,” much like what we saw after the 2011 tornadoes.

It was a time that if you were “cool,” you put several Mickey Mantle, Jackie Robinson, or Roger Maris baseball cards or playing cards on the spokes of your one speed Schwinn, using your mama’s clothespins to do so. That way you could get your bike to make the unique clicking sound that could only be generated by cards, and everyone could hear you coming. These days said trading cards are worth thousands of dol-

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lars, and most kids don’t even know what you are talking about when you tell them that was one way to “strut your stuff!” Ronnie knows, however, especially from his many years working for the Alabama State Department of Human Resources, “happiness was not the experience of everyone.” He spent several years work-

ing for DHR dealing with truancy and helping abused people of all ages. “It paved the way to my learning the concept of servant leadership and how to work with people.” But what happened in between? “It took me awhile to know what I wanted to do. I majored in Chemistry and

Biology, and graduated from UNA. I worked as a “lab rat” to get through school, and still worked cotton to help pay for my tuition. I taught school for a few years, some of which were at West Limestone High, and at one school I was the only white guy in the whole place. Then along came Vietnam.” His Army tours in ‘Nam were in ’69 and ’70, and he came home to a different, not so happy America. Viet Nam made him more determined than ever to help people, and to that end, he got his Master’s in Social Work. He spent seven years working as a lobbyist in Montgomery, and as far as politics is concerned, he has seen the good, the bad, and the ugly.

of Hurricane Katrina down in the Gulf. He reported directly to the Governor, “and I was glad to be able to help people who had lost everything.” He loves God, his wife, his kids and grandkids, (although on a recent vacation he was sorely tempted to take away the smart phone from one of his granddaughters because she wouldn’t stop texting,) and he loves to play golf. When we did this interview at LuVici’s on a Saturday morning, we had to hustle because he had a tee time at 9:30. Busy as he is, he makes

a point to fill his mind with Scripture and other inspirational literature, and as is often the case, shared with me his current favorite saying. It is as follows: “We are all works in progress-green tomatoes ripening on the windowsill of life.” Indeed we are, and that, my dear town folk, is some of what makes Ronnie roll.

Some of his most satisfying work came as a result of being appointed by former Governor Bob Riley to the task force that dealt with the aftermath

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July 20 - August 2, 2012

Cooking with Shelley

Green Tomato Cake by Shelley Underhill

This is one of the best cakes I have ever eaten! When my mother told me about how she was at our local farmers market thumbing through a magazine and came across this recipe that said, “Recipe courtesy of Crescent City Farmers Market Vendor,” she just had to try it. When she told me about it I was kind of leery; I am not leery any more.

I promise you will not be disappointed. It was a huge success at our house and I am sure it will be at yours too. Email your questions and recipes to shelleysdesk@ gmail.com. It makes my day to hear from you!

What you will need: ½ teaspoon salt 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon cinnamon 2 cups sugar 3 cups chopped green tomatoes 2 large eggs 1 cup chopped walnuts 2/3 cup vegetable oil Garnish: Confectioners sugar 1 teaspoon baking soda Preheat oven to 350; spray Bundt pan with nonstick baking spray with flour. Set aside. In mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, eggs, oil, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. Mix together well. Stir in tomatoes and walnuts (mixture will be very thick). Spoon batter into prepared Bundt pan. Bake until top is browned and springs back when lightly touched and edges are pulling away from sides of pan-- approximately 1 hour depending on oven. Remove from oven and let cool in pan completely before removing to prevent cake from falling. Garnish with sprinkled confectioners sugar. ENJOY!

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Clean and Green

Going Green? So, What’s In It For Me? by Lynne Hart

the goodness of the human race. Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful has a mission and goal to provide environmental education and information to our community so everyone can make informed choices about their personal behaviors. Here are a few ways that YOU can connect with the information you need: Monthly e-Newsletters science may be his willingness to sacrifice something today for future generations whose words of thanks will not be heard.”

In today’s world, “What’s in it for me?” seems to be a frequent question.

Our actions, more than our words, indicate whether we care about the condition of this planet when handed over to those future generations.

One of my favorite quotes is from Senator Gaylord Nelson, the founder of Earth Day, who said, “The ultimate test of man’s con-

I believe that most people are caring and unselfish, and will do the right thing if given the necessary information. I still have hope for

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Our e-Newsletters are an excellent way to receive up-to- date, local information on events, programs, and upcoming volunteer opportunities. Newsletters are brief with added links for additional information. Email addresses are protected, never sold or given away, and are only used for KALB business. Facebook Page KALB’s Facebook page -

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Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful - is a great source of quick, useful information. Our posts provide information in easy-to-swallow bites -- and it is ALWAYS local and pertinent. Website KALB also has a website dedicated to our entire organization, which includes information on our education programs, litter abatement activities, our Recycling Center, and Beautification Board. Here you can find details about our programs, find a list of what, where, and how to recycle, and seek out the many volunteer

and sponsorship opportunities available through KALB.

We rely on Planet Earth to provide a great deal to us -- food, water, fresh air, and more. Future generations are relying on us, people they’ve never met, to handle their planet with care and concern. Connect with KALB and we’ll help you do just that.

(256) 233-8728 KeepALBeautiful@att.net

Become a Fan

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July 20 - August 2, 2012

Sarah’s Sagas

Why Should You Care? by Sarah Chadwell

Athens Now is pleased to welcome Sarah Moquin Chadwell, the Director of the Family Resource Center here in Athens to our writing staff. Sarah graduated from the University of Alabama, and has had a career in broadcast journalism and media consulting. Her column will be focusing on the stories of the people of Athens she encounters every day, and her desire is to give them “a voice.” Welcome, Sarah! Don’t you just love a simple question? It’s probably due to the fact that simple questions require minimal brain power to process and respond as we are facing the never ending complexities of our smart phone, Facebook, CNN, twitter (still haven’t tried it) life. Dry or wet food for the cats? Jeans or shorts? Tomatoes with or without the skins before placing in the salad? My name is Sarah Chadwell, and I work alongside three educated, talented, and gifted woman who are finding that simple questions posed to them each day are requiring more and more complicated, heart wrenching, and resource draining answers. You may have heard of the

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Athens Limestone County Family Resource Center. We are located on Jefferson Street right next to Dub’s, and on most days you will find single struggling mothers, jobless fathers, and families who find themselves under - educated or with low incomes and who are about to be homeless or hungry. They also realize they need someone to help them make a positive change on a path that is going totally off course. These families have simple questions: “Do you have diapers, as I cannot buy them this month?” “Can you help us find a job?” Or, “We have been evicted and are living in the hotel with our two children, is there a low cost place to live?” Our Social Worker, Parent Educator, and Juvenile Community Service program directors just don’t know how to give a simple answer. That’s because they know that these questions are just the top of a mountain of personal and family circumstances, social and education issues, drug or alcohol addictions and more that have brought them to our Resource Center. Let’s go back a few years ago, when Governor Bob Riley had the opportunity to do a study asking another simple question: “How can we improve social service support to Alabama families in need?” The answer was based on research in other communities and states, research that showed that to create a positive change for

support to families here in our community.

Once that simple question of “can you help me” is asked, we find that by having all the puzzle pieces or social services information at our fingertips, we can empower each family to find an individualized solution that works.

Recent Family Resource Center Fun Day a family in need, you must solve the immediate crisis first (emergency shelter, food and safety.) But in addition, you must provide the social service tools, the personal one-on-one guidance and mentoring, in order to help the family move out of their situation for the long term.

LAUNCH to help youth find jobs, Morgan county Vocational Rehab to help our disabled, and the Madison County Crisis services to support victims of violence. Even if they are based in other counties, they are funded to provide personal

It only involves our staff and their talents who are using community resources to support local families with our local government support. Sound simple? It may.

Why should you care? That’s really up to you. It is your community and our families’ future.

Just one simple question to think about!

So, the simple answer to Governor Riley’s question was that “communities need a Family Resource Center to create positive changes for both now and the future.” The Athens Family Resource Center has operated for over five years at their Jefferson Street location, and is designed to be the “go to place” to find information on existing resources (food banks, community action, hospice, Learn to Read, DHR and so much more) AND provide a visiting home for resources not available in our community but that are needed. Here in Athens, we provide an opportunity for families to visit the Morgan County Career Link / Employment office, Madison County’s

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Tourism

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Time To Bring Out The Big Rigs By Jeanette Dunnavant, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association

The Tanner Tractor and Truck Pull, hosted by the Tanner Quarterback Club, is one of the largest events in the South. The pull will be at 7:00 PM, July 27thand 28that Tanner High School. Each night includes six classes sanctioned by the NTPA/Mid-South Pullers Association. On Saturday night the dual-wheel farm tractors join the competition. Bring the entire family and enjoy this event. If you only go to one tractor/truck pull this year, this should be the one. Each night is full of excitement and fun. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children over 6. Children 6 and under are admitted free, and concessions are available. Event proceeds benefit the Tanner High School athletics and Tanner youth sports. To find out more about the Tanner Pull call 256-4974309. For information about this and other Athens-Limestone County events call 256-232-5411/256-8671438 or visit our website, www.VisitAthensAL.com.

Region 914 AYSO Fall Soccer Registration Ages 5-18 â&#x20AC;˘ Cost is $75 East Limestone Fire Dept Thursdays (6:00pm til 8:00pm) and Saturdays (9:00am to 12:00pm) July 12 - Aug 4 For more info call 256-444-4102 or regioncomish914@yahoo.com Page 10

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SOUTHERN SATELLITES 256-232-6445 26978 US HWY 72 #A ATHENS, AL 35613

Serving Athens AL for Over 11 Years 'LJLWDO +RPH $GYDQWDJH SODQ UHTXLUHV PRQWK DJUHHPHQW DQG FUHGLW TXDOLÂ¿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Â¿HG IRUPHU FXVWRPHUV DQG VXEMHFW WR WHUPV RI DSSOLFDEOH 3URPRWLRQDO DQG 5HVLGHQWLDO &XVWRPHU DJUHHPHQWV $GGLWLRQDO UHVWULFWLRQV PD\ DSSO\ 2IIHU HQGV

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Learning As A Lifestyle

Just Fake It Until You Make It? by Wanda Campbell

People who know me can’t believe that I am really a shy person. How could I be shy when I seem so at ease while I talk on television and radio, give speeches to community groups, and introduce myself in crowds? This is how I can do that.

As I said in this column before, we moved a lot when I was a kid. Moving was really hard for me, especially when we moved while I was in high school. I had visions of not going to the prom, and being left out of everything that makes high school special. Not only was I going to miss prom, but we moved in the middle of the year, and everybody already had their groups formed. On top of that, our stuff was not going to get there in time for Christmas.

Since my life was “ruined,” I figured I would go spend money at the base shopping center. I was really surprised to run into a boy by the name of Alan Boyd there. Alan and I met in middle school in Clarksville, Tennessee. As we sat in the

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cafeteria catching up, I told him about my ruined life, and he told me that since I was in a new place, I could be anything I wanted to be. All I had to do was ‘fake it until I make it.’ I was really glad to have a friend

tions in class. I went home with a stomach ache. Every morning I had to remind myself that I was going to ‘fake it until I made myself one of the popular kids.’ Every morning I would tell myself I could do it.

these things. Every day I had to force myself to perform the actions that would help me succeed. There were days I wanted to hide in the corner, and there were days I did not think it was working. Some say you can change a habit in 30 days. I think it takes longer than that. There are days I still want to fall back on my old habits. From 13 Things to Avoid When Changing Habits, ZenHabits, http:// zenhabits.net/13-things-to-

in our new place, but he was leaving the next day. Talking with Alan made me feel better, but I wasn’t sure I could do it. I knew mom always said things such as, “The new place will be as good as you let it be,” or, “You will have as much fun as you want to.” And those sayings always seemed to work out. I decided I would try it.

avoid-when-changing-habits/, Jim Ryun, former athlete and politician, is quoted as saying “Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.” Aristotle is quoted as saying, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then, is not an act, but a habit.” So, if you are going to make learning into a lifestyle, you might just have to “fake it” for awhile in the process, but if your heart is true, you will indeed “make it,” and the effort will surely be worth it.

By spring, I knew quite a few kids in school. I tried out for cheerleader and made it. I tried out for drama club and “starred” in a play called “Zingu.” I ran for Junior class Secretary and was elected. I had “made it.” This may sound easy, but it was not. Every day I had to remind myself that I could do

The first day of school at Mannheim American High School in Germany, I said hello to everyone I saw. I asked ques-

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Cover Story

Re-Elect Mayor Ronnie Marks For Positive, Professional Leadership by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

him to have a shepherd’s heart for Athens, he possesses a vision for our city, and decades of quantifiable experience that have only served to sharpen his leadership skills. He also has the energy of a man decades younger than he is, and he spends that energy freely on us. Lastly, he is not afraid to admit his need for God’s help and wisdom for the job, and is not ashamed to pray for it out loud. So, without any further personal reflection on my observations about the man, I will get to the meat of this article and let you decide if you think it’s a good idea to re-elect him in August. I asked him what he wanted people to know about Athens in general, and his job in particular. “What we have been blessed with as citizens of Athens is a truly great community,” he said, “and it is a privilege to serve them.” In addition, he told me that Athens “is the fastest growing city in Northern Alabama, and I hear statements from ‘newbies’ to our town all the time about how beautiful and safe it is, how people holler at you when you go in and out the door.” He continued, “What people need to understand is that the City of Athens has to be run like a large corporation; it is a big business, with budgets in the millions that need to be spent wisely and accounted for with integrity.” To that end, the books are open to anyone who wants to wade through them, of course with the request that the full context of accounts and expenditures be understood and acknowledged. “Our job is to provide good government and services, and I

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always have the same five basic areas of concern that must all be addressed if I am going to do my job.” They are:

for Brown’s Ferry.”

Public Safety -“That is the most important. If the town isn’t safe, the rest doesn’t matter.” These days that also includes having in place a social media service that is “timely, true, and accurate.” Jobs and Economic Development - “People need to be able to support their families, and several businesses have come to Athens in the last year, with more on the way.” Education - “If our kids are

and the things about which he is the most pleased are the new fire stations and the influx of new industries. “We have also been able to put money into paving Lindsay Lane, have been awarded a grant to pave Lucas Ferry Road, Sanderfer Road, and Nuclear Plant Road, which is an evacuation route

What are his concerns and challenges? “First of all, that the community comes together. The natural disasters we have recently faced made us stronger than we had been for many years, but that needs to continue. And my charge as Mayor is to build a team that can give great service.” The other thing he mentioned to me with his usual sense of humor is the importance of tracking revenue streams. “Huntsville is creeping westward, and I don’t want to wake up one day surrounded.” He added, “We need to be proactive about protecting the interests of the City of Athens.” And finally he told me, “I’ll do this job to the best of my ability as long as I am supposed to. I am asking the people of Athens to get out and vote for the candidate of their choice on August 28th. I would like you to consider me to be your candidate for Mayor so we can make Athens the best place in Alabama to grow up, live and work in, and then retire here.”

going to live well and be productive, we must be vigilant about giving them a quality education. After all, they’re the ones who will be running this town after we’re gone.” Recreation - “Our city needs to be a place where people not only work hard, but have the opportunity to play well, and to have safe, affordable things to do with their families.” Quality of Life - “My goal is to make Athens so attractive that even if kids move away from this city for years, they’ll come back and settle here because it is home.” I asked him about what has been accomplished on his “watch,”

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Page 15

Cover Story

Teddy Wolcott And The Little Search Engine That Could by Ali Elizabeth Turner

continued from page 1

scribes herself as “older than dirt,” is in my view, the “engineer” of what I have come to call “The Little Search Engine That Could.” More on that later. Teddy and her brothers are the children of artists, and possess minds which work like Bill Gates and Steve Jobs. They’ve been “at it” (i.e. involved with everything that pertains to computers,) a long time, and Teddy totally got my attention when she told me she could build a website from scratch in 12 hours. My ultra-professional response was, “Whoa.” I had been told that our original Athens Now site was going to cost several thousand dollars to renovate, and a common complaint when it comes to website building is how long it takes for a web designer to finish the project. It can also be very difficult to explain what it is that you want, and if you decide to go with a web building kit, the chances are quite good that someone, after observing how you are floundering about, will borrow Dr. Phil’s line and ask, “How’s that workin’ out for you?” In our case, it wasn’t. We were stuck, and the day Teddy called, God smiled on the whole crew at Athens Now.

did not cost me my yet-tobe-born grandchildren to build, for which I am thankful! In a word, the work was exquisite, the price fair, and I am a highly satisfied customer.

where most folks go to find you. The way to “win” is through the use of what are called “key words.” Key words are a mathematically formulated list of how often certain words show up in your work. The more often the key words show up, the higher up on the Google, etc, list you go. Is your head swimming yet? If it is, that’s why you need Teddy. She “gets” this stuff like you and I can say our ABCs.

Teddy created her own online “paper,” called www. athensshoplocal.com, and we are linked to each other, having seen the value of entering into a joint venture relationship. She also is the

Because some of our readers are not interested in the Internet and how it can be a powerful marketing tool, I will keep this brief. “Search Engine Optimization,” (or SEO,) is a term that refers to how outfits like Google and Yahoo use and position your Internet ad or entry. The ob-

owner of www.truwebhost. com, is the manager of more than 100 sites nationwide, and owns her own server. With the launch of the Ath-

ens Now website, Athens business owners can get even more traction through the use of what is known as “Search Engine Optimization.”

So it is with total pleasure and gratitude that I announce the “birth” of our new website, www.athensnowal.com. It is beautiful, user friendly, linked to everything, and even has a button that lets you read the whole paper while “turning” the pages, much like amazon’s Kindle. It also

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ject of the Internet marketing game is to get listed as closely to the top of the Google, Yahoo, Bing or other page as possible, because that is

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Speaking of ABCs, that is the last of Teddy’s projects I would like to talk about. Athens Business Connection is a newly formed business cooperative that is patterned somewhat after BNI, (Business Networking International,)the world’s largest business networking and referral organization. ABC meets every other Tuesday at the HG Asian Bistro on Hwy 72 near S. Jefferson, right next to Taco Bell. The time is 11:30 am til 1pm, and I have both thoroughly enjoyed the contacts I have made, the challenging personal growth I have experienced, and the business I have garnered. Who do I have to thank for getting me into this? God and Teddy, in that order. To contact Teddy Wolcott for your advertising or web building and management needs, or for more information about Athens Business Connection, please call 256-729-0916, “like” her on facebook, or email her at smartbird@hughes. net. You’ll be glad you did!

July 20 - August 2, 2012

Medical Update

Sarrell Dental Offers Free Basketball Camp For Athens Kids by Christine Marsh of Sarrell Dental

Sarrell Dental is an Aladbama based nonprofit swhich serves children eages 1-20 with Medicyaid or ALLKids insuryance. With 14 locations nthroughout the state and na Mobile Dental Bus, nthe Sarrell Dental Team ehas treated over 350,000 ,children since their esdtablishment in 2004. s eWith over 185 employdees, the Sarrell Dental staff is made up of individuals who are dediscated to helping children sand ensuring no child is .neglected when it comes nto receiving dental care. sThe Sarrell Dental Team dunderstands the impor-tance of a comfortable -environment for chiltdren and strives to make dsure patients enjoy their Ctrips to the dentist. With ycolorful walls, a friend-ly staff, and TVs in each .room, each office is catered tto the needs of the children ethey serve. l hSince opening, Sarrell dDental has seen a notable edecrease in the revenue per -patient treated. In 2005, hthe revenue per patient was ,$328. In 2011, the revenue Iper patient was decreased oto $131. This decrease can kbe attributed to both the opreventative work provid,ed for children at a young -age as well as Sarrell Dental’s community outreach

July 20 - August 2, 2012

efforts. Through providing dental screenings at local schools and daycares, the

dental care to children in need, one of the ways Sarrell Dental gives back to

the fundamentals of basketball and the importance of team work. Within their second annual session of summer basketball camps, over 200 children have attended the camps held in Anniston and Clanton. Sarrell Dental will hold their third basketball camp this Saturday, July 21st from 9:00am- 12 noon at the East Limestone High School Gym. The 2012 summer camp session will come to a close after the fourth basketball camp is held in Tuscaloosa on July 28th at the Tuscaloosa Plum Grove Baptist Church Activity Center.

Sarrell Dental Team can evaluate the needs of students and ensure parents are aware of their child’s current dental needs. In addition, Sarrell Dental provides dental education lessons at various schools, day cares, and community events where children have the opportunity to learn the correct way of brushing, learn interesting dental facts, and ask any questions they might have through a fun, relaxing presentation. Aside

from

the community is through their free summer basketball camps which they put on in different areas across the state. Camp instructors include members of the University of Alabama basketball team who spend the day teaching children

Sarrell Dental takes pride in the opportunity to provide these free camps for children because they realize many children might not have the chance to attend summer camps due to the expense. The summer basketball camps provide a small way for Sarrell Dental to have an impact on children outside of the dental realm.

dental home for your child or know of someone who might be interested in Sarrell’s services, Sarrell Dental has an office located near you at 310 West Elm Street in Athens, AL. To schedule an appointment or ask any questions you might have, please call (256) 262-0200 to speak with a Sarrell representative.

Sarrell Dental looks forward to continual growth as their team strives to meet the dental needs of Alabama’s children. With a mission devoted to oral care and oral health awareness along with a staff dedicated to children, the future of Sarrell Dental looks bright. For more information on Sarrell Dental, please visit our website at www.sarrelldental.org.

If you are looking for a

providing

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Page 17

Horse Whispering

Putting Out Fires by Deb Kitchenmaster Earlier in July, when we were experiencing record breaking heat, I was in frequent contact with my daughter who lives in Colorado Springs. She kept me informed regarding the fires in that area that devoured thousands of acres, consumed structures, and took lives. People’s lives were challenged by heart wrenching choices, re-arranged because of the fire’s presence, and left with the reality of the environment that now surrounds them. With any and all fires, three elements are present: fuel, something that will burn, oxygen, the environment that supports the fire, and heat, the ignition source. Firefighters unite together to remove first one, and then all of these elements. In our connecting moments with horses, sometimes our relationships can become heated, ignited, or out of control. Let’s iden-

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tify possible “equine fires” and how to extinguish them desirably, back at the starting point. The three elements I will be discussing are: your relationship with your horse, your role with your horse,

and your intention with your horse. Understanding our relationship with the horse is crucial. We are the predator or the hunter, and they are the hunted. Inside themselves they know

is become more conscious of your anger, illusions, sorrow and fears, to mention a few. This, my NEIGHbor, is worth the connection!

We most definitely need to understand our role with the horse. Horses are true followers! Followers do two things. They follow the leader and they chal-

this about us; we need to do the same. What is the definition of “predator?” Here are three: 1. Carnivorous animal or destructive organism – a carnivorous animal that hunts, kills, and eats other animals in order to survive, or any other organism that behaves in a similar manner 2. Somebody who plunders or destroys – a person, group, company, or state that steals from others or destroys others for gain 3. Ruthlessly aggressive person – an aggressive, determined, or persistent person. Don’t get discouraged. We have the power of choice. We can connect in meaningful ways with our equine friends simply by choosing not to react, respond, or relate to them as a predator. Are you going to do this perfectly every time? NO! You will not, but what you will do

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lenge the leader to determine if that leader is worth following. YOU are the leader! There is a HUGE difference between being a predator and being a leader! This is worth meditating on and receiving clarity. True leadership is not about controlling, it’s about connecting. “Being in control” actually is an illusion! Again, there is a difference between the illusions of “being in control” and the fruit of the Spirit of selfcontrol. This fruit comes by being connected, rooted and grounded in LOVE, which is God. Thirdly, let us talk about

our intention with the horse. Horses are sentient in nature. What does that mean? They are conscious, alert, attentive, awake and responsive. In order to survive, they have to be sensitive to emotional energy and the intention behind it. Consider horses in the wild, for example. They may graze peacefully with a lion in the vicinity because they know he has recently eaten and is not hungry, yet, the herd scatters long before a predatory animal comes near, because they are aware a carnivore is on the hunt looking for food for its empty stomach. Horses are in tune to intention! Being the mirrors they are, if you are not clear with your intention, aim, intent, plan, objective or meaning, your equine friend will reflect that back to you. And one more time, you stand in the position of “choice!” Choose well, it’s worth the connection.

In your relationship with the Great Shepherd, you are a follower. He will lead you into green pastures, beside still waters, and restore your soul. Guess what? Goodness and mercy will follow YOU! In your relationship with your horse, be a leader worth following.

Your NEIGHbor, Deb Kitchenmaster Corral Connections: Connecting with LIFE through a horse Animal B.E.S.T practitioner dkitchenmaster@mchsi.com

July 20 - August 2, 2012

Health and Fitness

Heat and Exercise by Janet Hunt

Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment. Exercising in hot weather puts extra stress on your body. Both the exercise and the outside temperature increase your core body temperature. To help cool itself, your body sends more blood to circulate through your skin. This leaves less blood for your muscles, which then increases your heart rate. If the humidity is high, your body has additional stress because sweat doesn’t readily evaporate from your skin. That pushes your body temperature even higher. Heat-related illness Under normal conditions, your skin, blood vessels and perspiration level adjust to the heat. But these natural cooling systems may fail if you’re exposed to high temperatures and humidity for too long, you sweat heavily and you don’t drink enough fluids. Heat illnesses include: • Heat cramps. Heat cramps are painful muscle contractions, mainly affecting the calves, quadriceps (front of your thighs) and abdominals. Affected muscles may feel firm to the touch. Your body temperature may be normal. • Heat exhaustion. With heat

exhaustion, your body temperature rises as high as 104 F, and you may experience nausea, vomiting, headache, fainting, weakness and cold, clammy skin. If left untreated, this can lead to heatstroke. • Heatstroke. Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency condition that occurs when your body temperature is greater than 104 F. Your skin may be hot, but your body may stop sweating to help cool itself. You may develop confusion and irritability. You need immediate medical attention to prevent brain damage, organ failure or even death Pay attention to warning signs During hot-weather exercise, watch for signs and symptoms of heat-related illness. • Muscle cramps • Nausea or vomiting • Weakness • Headache • Dizziness • Confusion If you develop any of these symptoms, you must lower

your body temperature and get hydrated. Stop exercising immediately and get out of the heat. If possible, have someone stay with you who can help monitor your condition. Remove extra clothing or sports equipment. Drink fluids — water or a sports drink. If possible, fan your body or wet down your body with cool water. If you don’t feel better within 30 minutes, contact your doctor. If you have signs of heatstroke, seek immediate medical help.

How to avoid heat-related illnesses When you exercise in hot weather, keep these precautions in mind: • Watch the temperature. Pay attention to weather forecasts and heat alerts • Get acclimated. If you’re used to exercising indoors or in cooler weather, take it easy at first when you exercise in the heat. As your body adapts to the heat over the course of one to two weeks, gradually

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July 20 - August 2, 2012

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increase the length and intensity of your workouts. • Know your fitness level. If you’re unfit or new to exercise, be extra cautious when working out in the heat. Your body may have a lower tolerance to the heat. Reduce your exercise intensity and take frequent breaks. • Drink plenty of fluids. Dehydration is a key factor in heat illness. Help your body sweat and cool down by staying well hydrated with water. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. If you plan to exercise intensely or for longer than one hour, consider a sports drink instead of water. • Dress appropriately. Lightweight, loose fitting clothing helps sweat evaporate and keeps you cooler. Avoid dark colors, which can absorb heat. If possible, wear a light-colored, wide-brimmed hat. • Avoid midday sun. Exercise in the morning or evening, when it’s likely to be cooler outdoors. If possible, exercise in shady areas — or do a water workout in a pool. • Wear sunscreen. Sunburn decreases your body’s ability to cool itself. • Have a backup plan. If you’re concerned about the heat or humidity, stay indoors. Work out at the gym, walk laps inside the mall or climb stairs inside an air-conditioned building. • Understand your medical risks. Certain medical conditions or medications can increase your risk of a heatrelated illness. If you plan to exercise in the heat, talk to your doctor about precautions. Heat-related illnesses are usually preventable. By taking basic precautions, your exercise routine doesn’t have to be sidelined when the heat is on.

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Athens Rehabilitation and Senior Care Center Spotlight on Sandra Wagner by Ali Elizabeth Turner No one in their mid fifties expects to find themselves in what is often referred to as a convalescent center, but that is the situation in which Sandra Wagner found herself. A few months back, she literally woke up paralyzed from the waist down, had a pinched nerve, near failure of her kidneys, and barely beat back the Grim Reaper. She was in Athens-Limestone Hospital for 3 ½ weeks, and then was transferred to Athens

Rehab and Senior Care to continue her recovery. She couldn’t walk, and she was so distressed at first that she didn’t want to leave her room. However, she says with gratitude, “They coaxed me out, and all of that is in now in the past.” Two months have gone by, and she is walking with a walker, laughing, considers the staff and residents her “new family,” and says with confidence, “I am going to throw away this walker someday.” She

can’t say enough about the excellent care she has received since arriving in May. “It’s awesome, there are no words for it,” she says. “I now have no regrets about being here, and I am thankful to the staff for getting me back up and walking again.” She loves the activities, and some of her favorites are Bingo and Wii bowling. It is clear that the staff loves “Miss Sandi,” and the feeling is mutual. We shared several laughs, and

talked about her life prior to coming to Athens Rehab and Senior Care. She has two grown children and 4 grandkids. She attended church at New Oakland Baptist and Decatur Christian Fellowship. What makes Sandi’s story so interesting is that for six years, back in the ‘80s, she actually worked as a caregiver at the very center where she now resides. She became so attached to the residents that she finally had to quit, and she is quick to mention that there are staff workers who will come down on their day off or in the middle of the night to be with a patient in need or who is about to pass, and she both appreciates and understand their dedication. So, what are her “favorite things,” as the song goes? Favorite movie? Without a moment’s hesitation she told me that it’s “Fried Green Tomatoes.” Her favorite color? Blue. “Mine

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too, I told her.” Her favorite food is homemade tacos or spaghetti, and if she were President of the United States, she’d “fix health care and the economy.”

She loves all kinds of music, and especially bluegrass gospel. Her favorite place in the whole wide world is Montego Bay, Jamaica, and told us of a memorable trip she took with her children a few years back. “Oh, I would love to live there,” she said.

What advice does she have for young people? “Trust in God, obey your mom and dad, and learn from other peoples’ lives.” I’d say that’s wisdom no matter what your age. There is a chance that Sandra might be at the Center for a very long time, and being able to live without regret if that ends up being the case is a rare gift for which she is continually thankful.

July 20 - August 2, 2012

e f e x -

e e , a k w d e

The World According to Will

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

Voter ID Laws And Voter Turnout by Will Anderson On July 3rd, Will Anderson, one of our Athens Now staff writers and a talk show host whose program is on Huntsville’s WBHP, was involved in a terrible car accident. Undaunted and undeterred, the man is still functioning in his former capacity through facebook, posting blogs, and speaking to the nurses that are caring for him. Per usual, he is rattling a few cages and making people both think and laugh, and below we have posted one of his blogs written from his hospital bed. He is recovering nicely, and will be returning to the show as soon as he is able. He has been touched both by the care he as received at the hospital, as well as the outpouring of love and support from his listeners. Will, all of us pray that you have a

speedy recovery, with full restoration of the use of your legs. I read the post below to one of the wonderful folks taking care of me here at Stallworth, and he objected (with a smile, of course) that I was taking things too far by suggesting that Democrats are concerned about Texas stripping minorities of the Constitutional right to vote. I referred him to this column in today’s Los Angeles Times, in which Bruce Ackerman and Jennifer Nou posit that there are “special provisions of the Voting Rights Act that prevent states with a history of discrimination from disadvantaging minority groups.” The 1965 Act, they go on to argue, is insufficient in stopping such discrimination. “The poll tax amendment, in contrast, was focused on the very problem that now threatens

again to undermine our democracy: imposing costs on the poor that prevent them from voting.” My caretaker was confused: Was I in favor of preventing minorities

from voting? Of course not, I assured him; requiring a picture ID is not tantamount to imposing a tax, and besides, I continued, states that have passed voter ID laws in the last several years have actually

seen an increase in minority turnout. He was politely skeptical as he took my blood pressure. Then I unearthed a column written back in March by The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s always brilliant Jack Kelly. “In Georgia,” I read to my caretaker from the piece, “black voter turnout for the midterm election in 2006 was 42.9 percent. After Georgia passed photo ID, black turnout in the 2010 midterm rose to 50.4 percent. Black turnout also rose in Indiana and Mississippi after photo IDs were required.” It was probably my imagination that the BP cuff felt tighter than normal around my arm.

e t m m d s t y e f e e

July 20 - August 2, 2012

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Limited quantities, more specials throughout the store J and G Variety would like to thank you for supporting your local small businesses! For more information email: info@jandgvariety.com

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July 20 - August 2, 2012

Security Savvy

Identity Theft “101” by Jim Doyle, owner of Madison Security Group

Anti-Theft Procedures 1.Use an inexpensive crosscut shredder to destroy old tax returns, bank statements, utility bills, loan records, credit card statements and other records that contain personal information.

copies, check each one to be sure that all activity listed is correct.

2.Do NOT sign a new credit card. Using a permanent fine point marker, write “C.I.D.” in the signature line. By doing so, you are asking every sales person to “See my ID” so they check personal identification before processing a retail transaction.

2.Blank forms can easily be altered by identity thieves using chemical and computer technology. Shred those blank cash advance “convenience” checks often included in monthly credit card statements.

3.Immediately check for YOUR NAME on the credit card that’s returned to you after each transaction…especially in restaurants and bars. Never simply pick up the credit card and receipt copy and store them in your wallet or pocket.

3.Have your Social Security # removed from all utility / medical / charge accounts and your driver’s license. Ask to be assigned a random ID number instead. 4.Leave your original Social Security card at home in a safe place. Do NOT carry it in your purse or wallet. 5.Opt out of those pre-approved credit offers you get in your mailbox. Call:

July 20 - August 2, 2012

(800)-567-8688 and ask to have your name & address removed from their mailing lists.

6.Never leave outgoing mail in an unlocked home mailbox. Account numbers and bank routing information are printed on your checks and can be easily copied. Plus, the “Pay to the order of “line can be altered by identity thieves using available computer technology.

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Check Your Credit 1.Order a copy of your personal credit report annually from major credit bureaus: EQUIFAX (800) 685-1111, EXPERIAN (888) 397-3742, TRANS UNION (800) 8884213. Once you receive

4.Pay close attention to bank, credit card, and debit card statements. Report any suspicious entry promptly in order to be protected by your bank or credit card company regulations.

1 out of every 10 people that have been violated by identity theft know that person.

Again stay aware and be safe.

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July 20 - August 2, 2012