Athens Now August 1, 2012 by Alabama Biz Finder

August 3 - August 16, 2012

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

Sugar Mama’s: Sweet And Seasonal Treats By Ali Elizabeth Turner When Leigh Sutton, one of several women who make up the Sugar Mama’s “Sweet Treats Team,” met me at the door of the bakery for this interview, I knew in an instant why she is known at the shop as the “Peanut Butter Queen.” The smell of freshly baked peanut butter cookies was nearly irresistible, made worse by the fact that it was supper time and I was hungry. It was, however, clearly a pleasant torture. Continued on pages 15

Leigh Sutton, co-owner of Sugar Mama’s Sweet Treats

Alabama Orthotics And Prosthetics:

“Where Relationships Last A Lifetime” By Ali Elizabeth Turner

Jerry Swanson w/ long time patient and fellow amputee Lorie Clothfelter

August 3 - August 16, 2012

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In June of 1967, Jerry Swanson was a sixteen year old farm boy who had all his limbs and his whole life out in front of him. Then the unthinkable happened, and he lost his leg in a bush hog accident while working on his

Continued on page 16

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August 3 - August 16, 2012

Publisher’s Point

Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Contributing Writers Shelley Underhill Janet Hunt Wanda Campbell Lynne Hart Jeanette Dunnavant Joel Allen Jim Doyle Will Anderson Jerry Barksdale

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 Jerry’s Journal . . . . . . . . . . 9

Chick-fil-A And The Constitution Former Governor Mike Huckabee may have been the unwitting spark that lit a grassfire throughout America by declaring August 1 as “Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day.” Huckabee, along with millions of other Americans believe that Dan Cathy, the President of Chickfil-A has the right to say what he believes about marriage, and suggested that Americans show their support by patronizing their local franchise. I’ll go one farther: the 1st Amendment of the Constitution of the United States protects Mr. Cathy and his right to have an opinion on what constitutes marriage without any qualification whatsoever, and the lines around the block of cars and people spoke loudly that they agree. Marriage has, from time immemorial, always been defined as either being between a man and his wife, or a man and his wives. It is inherently heterosexual, else there would be no life brought forth, and mankind would cease to exist. It doesn’t involve unions with kids, animals or objects. Does Mr. Cathy have the right to hold to his views, whether they be corporate or private, part of an address or just a sideways comment? He does, and the mayors of Chicago, San

Francisco and Boston cannot interfere. People can disagree with Dan Cathy, should they choose to, and there are those who do. If the President of the United States indicated back a few years ago that he believes marriage is between the sexes,

and then changes his mind, as maddening as it is, the Constitution cannot step in and prevail against him. But when it comes to public policy, no mayor can say that a business is unwelcome because their CEO expressed an opinion with which the majority of Americans happen to agree.

Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 11

Cover Stories . . . . . . . . . 15-16 Bog Barker . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 19

Medical Update . . . . . . . . . . 22 Security Savvy . . . . . . . . . . 23

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ing that I encountered when I opened the door. People were patient and quietly celebratory. The staff was friendly, and if I hadn’t needed to put the paper to bed, I would have stood in line for as long as it took to get some tea. Hmm, perhaps Americans will now have a

media, it is the citizen reporters and alternative media that have carried the day.

second Independence Day, to be celebrated each year on August 1st, where we’ll drink tea, eat chicken, and tell our progeny about the day when we shocked everyone, including ourselves, and defended the Constitution of the United States from all enemies, both foreign and domestic.

What I found particularly remarkable was that there were reports of Wendy’s outlets that recommended that their customers, just for one day, go have lunch at Chick-fil-A. Perhaps the almighty dollar doesn’t have the power we have thought it has, and Americans actually have some spine. In Athens, the Chick-fil-A store was packed, the drive thru wrapped around the building, the parking lot full, and cars were parked up both sides of the street. But what I enjoyed was the upbeat feel-

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

World According to Will . . 21

As Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day gathered steam, many wondered if the mainstream media would report on it or ignore it. At least the network affiliates in the Valley acknowledged what was going on, and has always been the case since the advent of social

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

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All Things Soldier

Navy SEALS vs. “Climate Change As A Security Threat?” by Ali Elizabeth Turner My husband and I recently watched a grim, but in my view important movie produced in 2012 entitled “Act of Valor.” It illustrates the movements of Navy SEALS in three separate locations as they prevent radical Islamists in several American cities from using ceramic ball bearings sewn into vests from blowing themselves up in population dense places like airports and sporting events. They would have entered into America through an extensive tunnel system that starts in Mexico. In addition, the SEALS staged a daring rescue of a badly wounded female CIA agent who withstood unbelievable torture, and they narrowly escaped a heavily armed, well trained narcoterrorism force in Central America in the process. All of it was based on true

tarily to touch his name as the credits rolled.

events, and for SEALS, it’s all in a day’s work. For me, the film was a painful and dear reminder of what a privilege it was to live amongst the SEALS and Iraqi Special Forces for

16 months on a camp that had once been the haunt of Uday Hussein. What I was not prepared for, however, was the fact that the movie had been dedicated to every SEAL that had fallen since 9/11, and when I saw the name of Marc Lee, the fallen son of Gold Star

Mom Debbie Lee whom I have met, come up on the screen, I had a come apart. Marc’s story of self sacrifice has been alluded to in other pieces written in this column, and I won’t say more at this juncture other than I found my hand reaching out seemingly involun-

Now contrast the tales of valor as the SEALS waged the kind of warfare that nabbed Osama Bin Laden with a new report that has just been released that makes recommendations that our troops be reduced as well as refocused on dealing with “climate change as a security threat.” The Unified Security Budget, in cooperation with the Center for American Progress and the Institute for Policy Studies has posited that our troops be reduced by 20% and move toward making “conflict resolution and diplomacy” as one of its goals. Huh? The SEALS job never has and never will be to sit down at the table first. It has always been to get the bad guys so that diplomats can actually do the sitting down, let alone the talking. That’s bad enough, but global warming, even if it does exist, is somehow supposed to be looked on in the same way as jihad?

The authors of the Unified report also want to see the U.S. nuclear arsenal reduced, the Osprey not be produced, laser warfare technology not be developed, a Virginia class submarine be cancelled, and the list goes on. They want the Pentagon to “get out of the way, and handing over any unneeded military installations to be converted into green job incubators.” “Green job incubators,” I guess would be where the SEALS will be working to develop sustainable energy and their diplomacy skills. Do you think they’ll sing Kumbaya while they do?

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August 3 - August 16, 2012

Calendar of Events Ardmore Police Reserve Rodeo Aug 3 & 4

It’s time for bucking, roping, bare back riding, barrel racing and much more. Bring the kids to see the rodeo clowns. Admission is $10 (6-12 years) and $12 (adults) advanced or at gate. 5 and under are admitted free. Burgess Rodeo Contractor. Two $100 Cash give aways each night. Be sure and purchase your chances on the saddle to be give away. A new Buckle will be given to each event winner. Contact Officer Tom CombsRodeo Coordinator at 256-434-0329 or Ardmore Police Department at 256-423-2146.

20th Annual Piney Chapel American Farm Heritage Days Aug 3 & 4

Join the excitement at 20147 Elkton Road, Athens, AL. Grounds open at 9:00 AM on Friday and at 7:00 AM on Saturday. Come see the equipment in action. Gasoline engines, steam engines, antique tractors, cars, trucks, horse drawn equipment, parts vendors, collectibles and much more. Events include Parade of Power, Fast Crank Competition, Slow Races, Skillet Throw for the ladies, Pedal Pull for the kids and lots more for the entire family. Primitive Camping - No hook Ups. Concessions available. Admission $5.00, children 10 and under free. Free parking. Flea market & parts vendors $10 set up fee. Contact: David 256-4316226, Allen 256-431-0619, Marvin256-431-2316 and Mike 256-2065926.

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.

“The Alabama Blues Brothers” Showband and Revue Aug 4 at 7:00 PM (doors open at 6:00 PM)

Yesterdays Event Center invites you to this concert. Also special guest national singer/impressionist Kevin Adams will be performing. This will be the first time in several years that The Alabama Blues Brothers has brought their entire showband back to Yesterdays Event Center, this is one of the top Blues Brothers tribute shows in the nation. This will also be Kevin Adams’ first show with us this year, Kevin qualified for “America’s Got Talent” in 2009 and received the “Rising Star” award for 2010 from Gigmasters, the nation’s largest online booking agency. Visit www.yesterdaysevents.com for information.

Ardmore Quarterback Club Car Show Aug 11 at 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

One of the biggest and best car shows in Tennessee and Alabama is in Ardmore at the Ardmore, TN John Barnes Park located on Ardmore Ridge Road. Awards will be presented in 10 classes with the top five by class.

August 3 - August 16, 2012

All judging is done by the contestants. Live music will be provided by Microwave Dave. Six grand prize drawings will be held during the day. The AQBC Grand Prize is a 1967 Chrysler Imperial. Brand Stovall’s Auto Body Shop will present cash prizes of $1,500 for first place, $1,000 for second place and $500.00 for third place. A Corporate Prize of a rolling tool box valued at $4,200 will be given away by Snap-On Tools. Naylor Performance Transmission will give away a 700R transmission. $50 cash drawings will be every 10 minutes. A 50/50 drawing will also be held. Pre-enter by August 4th and the fee is $20.00. Day of Show entry fee is $25.00. Spectator admission is $5.00 per person or $15.00 per family. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Contact: 256-4237588.

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

Singing on the Square Aug 17 at 6:00 PM

Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the free concert featuring Sophisticated Swingers and Piney Creek Bluegrass Boys. Contact: 256232-5411 Free

Ardmore Crape Myrtle Festival Aug 25

Contact: 256-423-7588, ardmorealtnchamber.com Free It’s time for arts and crafts, delicious festival food and live entertainment. The festival is held at the Ardmore, TN John Barnes Park located on Ardmore Ridge Road. Contact: Linda at 256-423-8252, ardmorealtnchamber.org. Free admission.

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.

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What Makes Ronnie … And Jimmy … Roll

The Quest For Servant Leadership The term “servant leadership” gets bandied about these days in everything from business publications to the pulpit. I asked Mayor Marks if he would invite Athens City Council President Jimmy Gill to join us for our interview time, because I wanted to get an idea of how these guys work together to serve our community, and specifically how they viewed leadership styles and their roles as leaders. Jimmy Gill has been serving on the City Council since 1992, and is in his 6th term. A lifelong resident of Athens as well as a Class of ’66 Trinity High School graduate, Jimmy has seen some “wild times,” especially during the ‘60s and the Civil Rights era. .Jimmy is also a cancer survivor and works part time at People’s Funeral Home. He’s a master BBQ-er,

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and according to Mayor Marks, “gives back to the community like few people do.” Jimmy has actually been Mayor of Athens, (serving when Dan Williams was out for health reasons,) involved in Relay for Life, the Birdie Thornton Center, and Ronnie says, “He’s sharp, works hard, and knows what’s going on.” I myself have seen him stand up for the truth when it would have been way easier to lay low and let things just pass over, and have admired him for his courage in doing so. “Jimmy, how would you describe your leadership style?” I asked. He thought for a minute and said, “I listen, think it through, go to prayer with God, and then make what I think is the right decision.” I liked the fact that the first thing on his list is that he listens, and also

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

that he prays. Jimmy and Ronnie have been friends for years, having met through Ronnie’s brother Claude when Jimmy and Claude worked together for the same company. I have wondered, knowing that they are both friends, colleagues, and men of deep faith, just how they handle the inevitable disagreements that arise when trying to govern well or just maintain relationships in general. “What do you guys do when you disagree?” I asked them. Jimmy spoke first. “We agree to disagree, and then move on. We have disagreed, and we get over it.” Ronnie seconded him. Jimmy added, “If you are doing things for the right reasons, things have a way of working out.” We talked about the need to be able to trust each other’s hearts,

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Jimmy Gill, President of City Council of Athens and Mayor Ronnie Marks

even when we didn’t see eye to eye, and to stand strong on principles. Jimmy talked about how important it is to remember that every City Council member, any public servant, for that matter, “takes an oath on the Bible, and it don’t matter if you are black, white, red,

or green, you gotta do the right thing.” Ronnie added, “It’s one thing to talk, and another to talk and walk.” Talk and walk, I think, is an excellent way to describe what makes for good leaders. And one thing I know, that’s the only way Ronnie and Jimmy desire to roll.

August 3 - August 16, 2012

Cooking with Shelley

Ms. Lexi And The Broccoli Salad by Shelley Underhill

Recently I had the pleasure of creating a new recipe with my friend Lexi. We got together this past week and came up with this delicious culinary creation. It can be used as a side dish or a colorful party food. It is not only tasty but pleasing to the eye! I hope that you give it a try. Email your questions and comments to shelleysdesk@gmail.com.

What you will need: 2 cups raw broccoli 1 cup sour cream 1 pack of powdered ranch 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese 8 strips of cooked bacon (we used the cooked bacon from the store) Mix together ranch and sour cream, then combine broccoli,cheese and ranch mixture together. Mix well. Garnish with bacon. Refrigerate for several hours. Enjoy!

August 3 - August 16, 2012

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Clean and Green

Duck And Run 5k Is Racing Toward Us! by Lynne Hart

Get ready...get set...GO to our website and register to be part of the 9th Annual Duck and Run 5K Race and Fun Run taking place on Saturday, September 15th to support the work of Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful! You can also register through www.northalabamarunner.blogspot.com. The Duck and Run 5K is a moderately challenging race through the streets of historic Athens, Alabama. Runners will pass antebellum homes, pass through the Courthouse Square, and enjoy refreshments and award presentations in the historic Athens Utilities Building which was built in 1906. This building was recently renovated and is now the Athens Visitors Center. The first 25 runners

to register for this race will have a rubber duck entered into the Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby which takes place on October 6th and offers a $1,000 grand prize sponsored by McClary Ford in Athens. This event also supports the work of Keep AthensLimestone Beautiful.

RACE INFORMATION Pre-registration for the 5K is $15 and must be postmarked by 9/8/12. Race Day registration is $20. Fun Run registration is $10. A race form can be printed off the KALB website if you prefer not to register online. Packet pickup and late registration will be on Friday, September 14th from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the KALB office located at 125 East Street -- right behind Big Spring Memorial Park. Race Day registration will begin at 6:45 a.m. 5K Race will begin at 8:00 a.m. Fun Run begins at 9:00 a.m. T-Shirts will be guaranteed to the first 200 registered runners. Awards and prizes will be presented. Must preregister to guarantee size. For more information on the race, please contact KALB at 256-233-8728 or email to KeepALBeautiful@att.net.

Athens-Limestone Hospital, Advocare, Wilmer & Lee, P.A., Quizno’s and Bruegger’s Bagels. We appreciate these businesses supporting this fundraiser!

t-shirts, place any advertising you provide into the race bags, and provide recognition on all printed materials. Just give us a call!

If you or your business would like to help sponsor this event, we would be pleased to add your name or logo to our race

(256) 233-8728 KeepALBeautiful@att.net

Become a Fan

www.KeepAthensLimestoneBeautiful.com

RACE SPONSORS KALB appreciates our sponsors for this race: Fleet Feet, McClary Ford, Pepsi, Dub’s,

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August 3 - August 16, 2012

Jerry’s Journal

Face To Face With The Last Of The Code Talkers

by Jerry Barksdale

The dirt road leading to Taos Pueblo was rough and dusty, and bordered with chamisa and sage brush. Across the vast flats was Taos Peak, and the gray and looming Sangre de Cristo Mountains that rose up against blue sky. Ahead was a round brush-arbor surrounded by tents, pick-up trucks, vendor stands and hundreds of Native Americans.

The 27th Annual Pow-Wow sponsored by Taos Pueblo was underway, and Native Americans from across the country had come to dance, socialize and celebrate their culture. Leslie Pitts, age 12, a freckled face red-head and beginning 6th grader at Tanner High had his face stuck to the window of the Chevy Caravan as his father, Bonnie pulled onto a grassy spot and parked. We had driven to Taos to attend the Pow-Wow and visit my daughter, Shannon, after first stopping off at a Dude Ranch in the Texas Panhandle.

The sound of drums and singing in a language that I didn’t comprehend came from the direction of the brush-arbor. We walked over and stood in a shady spot among mostly native spectators. In the center of the arbor circle was a small fly tent that protected a handful of young Comanche drummers and singers from the hot sun. Drumming and singing began. Men dressed in colorful regalia of beads, moccasins, feathers and scarves entered the outside of the circle. Each held a gourd in one hand and feathers in the other. They began a “Ho yah, ho yah,” chant to the rhythm of the drums and rattled their gourds as they slowly

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danced toward the center of the circle. Most of the dancers displayed Armed Forces patches on their colorful scarves. Several were Marines. Women dancers wearing long skirts stood at the back of the circle and danced in place, moving their feet to

the beat of the drums. The closer the male dancers got to the center of the circle, the louder the drumming and singing. I found it mesmerizing. The announcer said that it was the Kiowa gourd dance and the circle represented earth and the four directions. He explained that the women stood at the back out of respect for the men. Traditionally they didn’t participate at all, he said. But the women’s movement had changed that. Go girls! Afterwards, I strolled off to find food. “I’ll take one of those chicken tacos,” I said to a tall white woman who was wiping sweat from her face. She dumped a cup full of grilled chicken strips into a big tortilla, threw in onions, poured on red chili sauce and rolled it up like a newspaper. “Do you want a roasted

green chili on the side?” she asked. “Heck yeah, why not?” I bit off a chunk and swallowed it. “Mmmmm pretty tasty. I took another bite. A fire ignited in my mouth and quickly spread to my stomach. “Oooooh weeee.

Hog dog

almighty! Do you sell bottled water?” “Sure, two bucks.” I didn’t care if it cost ten bucks. “Gimme two of ‘em.”

I offered my hand. “Sir, I honor you for your service to our Country.” He nodded, smiled slightly, but said nothing. His grip was firm for a ninety-year-old man. I had just met Chester Nez, the last survivor of the original 29 World War II Navajo Code Talkers. He was reared in a hogan in New Mexico, jerked from his happy home at a young age, and sent off to a white man’s school where his name was changed, and he was punished for speaking his native language. It was his unwritten language that helped America win the war against the Japanese in the Pacific. He fought at Guadalcanal, Peleliu, Bouganville and Guam. Leslie walked up. “Leslie, I want you to meet a real American hero,” I said. “One day you can tell your grandchildren about him.” Leslie’s freckled face beamed as he shook hands. “Good to meet you sir.”

This time the old man smiled and spoke. “Good – to – meet – you -.”

Judith S. Avila, co-author of Code Talker was present. It’s the first and only memoir by one of the original Navajo Code Talkers of World War II. I had to have a copy.

“Would you like it signed?” she asked. “Absolutely.”

And it was. “To Jerry Barksdale – Walk in beauty! Cpl. Chester Nez.”

The book is excellent reading and published by Penguin Group, 300 pages and includes the actual Navajo Code and rare photographs. It sells for $26.05. I recommend it. I also recommend attending the Taos Pueblo Pow-Wow if you get the chance. It’s usually held during the second week of July. And go for the chicken taco. But do not – I repeat – do not eat the roasted green chili pepper!

Folks, an Alabama gringo’s stomach is designed to process watermelons and cornbread, not fire bombs. Later, I wandered off to visit other vendors. I spotted an old native man, his face bronze and wrinkled, sitting stoically behind a table beneath a fly tent. Books were stacked on the table. I walked over to check them out. The old man wore an open collared yellow shirt with military sleeve patches and a red bill cap. Pinned to the front of the cap was a Marine anchor and globe. Stitched across the front in bold yellow letters was “Navajo Code Talker.”

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Tourism

Tractors, Trucks, Cars, Horses & More! By Jeanette Dunnavant, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association

The next two weeks offer lots of fun and exciting events to attend. The 20th Annual Piney Chapel American Farm Heritage Days will be August 3rd and 4th at 20147 Elkton Road, Athens, AL. Show grounds open at 9:00 AM on Friday and 7:00 AM on Saturday. There will be gasoline engines, steam engines, antique tractors, cars, trucks, horse drawn equipment, parts vendors, collectibles, and much more. Events include the Parade of Power, Fast Crank Competition, Slow Races, Skillet Throw (for the ladies), Pedal Pull (for the kids) and lots of fun for the entire family. Live entertainment on Friday night will be at 5:00 PM. Admission is $5.00. Children 10 and under are admitted free. Free parking. Contact David Hargrove at 256-431-6226 or Allen Dement at 256-431-0619 for more information.

rel racing and much more. Bring the kids to see the rodeo clowns. Admission is $10 (6-12 years) and $12 (adults) in advance or at gate. 5 and under are admitted free. Two $100 cash giveaways each night. Be sure and purchase your chances on the saddle to be given away. A new Buckle will be given to each event winner. Contact Officer Tom Combs - Rodeo Coordinator at 256-434-0329 or Ardmore Police Department at 256423-2146 for more informa-

more at the Ardmore, TN John Barnes Park located at 30500 Ardmore Ridge Road. Awards will be presented in 10 classes with the top five by class. Live music will be

provided by Microwave Dave. The Club Grand Prize is a 1967 Chrysler Imperial. Pre-enter by August 4th and the fee is $20.00. Day of Show entry fee is $25.00. Spectator admission is $5.00 per person or $15.00 per family. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Contact: 256-4237588 for more information.

After you have enjoyed a day at the Farm Heritage Days, drive to Ardmore for the 20th Annual Ardmore Police Rodeo, August 3rd & 4th. The rodeo will be held at

On August 11th, the Athens State University Community Band will tion. Contractor this year is Burgess Rodeo Company.

the Ardmore, TN John Barnes Park located at 30500 Ardmore Ridge Road. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for bucking, roping, bare back riding, bar-

Come to downtown Athens August 4th, 3:00 PM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8:00 PM, for the monthly Cruise In on the Square. Bring your antique vehicle and park around the square. Join the fun by enjoying delicious dishes offered by our downtown restaurants. Come early and check out the great buys at the downtown businesses. Be sure and get an ice cream cone at Limestone Drug or milk shake at Kreme Delight. Make it a family night. Contact Tom at 256457-9179. The 9th Annual Ardmore Quarterback Club Car Show will be August 11th at 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM One of the biggest and best car shows in Tennessee and Alabama is in Ard-

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hold its annual Concert on the Square at 6:30 PM on the east side of the Limestone County courthouse in historic downtown Athens, AL. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the music under the direction of Mr. Dan Havely. The concert is free but donations will be appreciated. For information about the above events and other Athens-Limestone County events call 256-232-5411/256-867-1438 or visit our website www.VisitAthensAL.com.

August 3 - August 16, 2012

Special Feature

Monkey Town Party And Play Center: A Clean, Safe Place For “Monkeys” Of All Ages by Ali Elizabeth Turner

We are told in Scripture that unless we become like little kids, we won’t see the Kingdom, and we know that at least on one occasion our Savior repeatedly jumped for joy. There is a place in Madison where kids of all ages can jump on inflatables to their heart’s content, and I can tell you that doing so made me feel way more like a joyful kid and much less like a stressed business owner who was at the end of a difficult work week.

It’s called Monkey Town Party and Play Center, and it’s located at 140 Castle Drive, just off Hwy 72 and Slaughter Road. It is a family owned business, and a favorite hangout for homeschoolers, church groups, birthday parties, parents and kids who are looking for an activity that won’t break the bank. Formerly known as Jump Zone, Larry and Connie Martin recently bought and renovated the place, and their children Courtney and Brianna helped them. They are a homeschool family, and running such a fun business is a unique part of the girls’ education.

When they took over on February 1st of this year, they began to renovate and rearrange. Bright colors were painted on the walls, the party rooms were decorated, and the rooms were reconfigured so there could be better supervision.

Monkey Town has everything from a hurricane simulator to a room that is one non-stop blackboard and plenty of colored chalk. There are rooms with air hockey, and very soon

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and are especially popular with highschoolers.

Monkey Town features sports parties, day cares, end of year Awana parties, and special times for toddlers. However, what made me wish my kids weren’t all grown was the “Parents’ Night Out.” This is held once a month, and for $17 dollars for the first child, and $15 for the second, parents can drop their children off from 6-10 pm and go have a date. Babysitters are hired, the kids are fed and Laura says it’s a wonderful way to spend time with her husband and get in both dinner and a movie.

The basic pricing schedule for parties is as follows:

they’ll be opening up an arcade with all kinds of video games that won’t give parents the creeps. There’s a playroom for preschoolers, several rooms with tables on the first floor and a second story of party rooms. Let me tell you about the inflatables. For smaller kids there is one that is shaped like a carousel. There is a giant Superman inflatable slide, but hands down, my fave was the Jurassic Park themed inflatable. It had a mountain you could climb, inflatable tusks to push through, and several slides cascading from the top of the mountain. The inflatables can handle adults up to the weight of 300 lbs, so size is rarely an issue if you want to jump. Several open play times are scheduled, and once a month on the 4th Friday there is a time for homeschoolers to get together. I spoke with a homeschooling mom by the

Weekends Weekdays 10 kids

$170

$140

15 kids

$200

$160

20 kids

$230

$190

25 kids

$260

$220

Cosmic Glo

name of Laura Minjares, who was there with her two daughters, aged 5 and 11. “I like the owners,” she said, and comes as often as she can. “What’s nice is that one daughter can be jumping and the other can be practicing the letter A if she wants,” she said. For $300, Monkey Town can be rented for what are known as Cosmic Nights. That’s when the laser and strobe lights come out, the kids are given glo-stick necklaces to wear, and if they come in having ap-

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plied face paint that glows in the dark, this is when it will show up. It is one of Monkey Town’s most popular venues. Soon they’ll be adding a black light, which will make the face paint all the more interesting. The “Cosmic Glo” parties feature pizza from Marco’s Pizza in Madison. Peggy Newton, the Martin girls’ grandmother says that the pizza “rocks.” Quite an endorsement, I’d say, coming from Nana. Glo party nights are on Friday or Saturday nights from 6-8:30,

$300

There are add-ons such as pizza, ice cream, goodie bags, colored popcorn bags, beverages and extra play time. During the month of August, get $40 off on your party, and for more information, hours or to book a play day or party, call 256325-jump. Monkey Town, for “monkeys” of all ages.

Monkey Town

140 Castle Drive Madison, AL 256-325-5867 Monkey Town Play Center Page 11

PuroClean Announces a New Service – Asbestos Abatement Athens, AL (Grassroots Newswire) Aug 3, 2012 -- Asbestos abatement consists of the safe removal and disposal of Asbestos containing materials. Identification and removal of Asbestos from your home or business can be a complicated and potentially dangerous process. Asbestos may be found in flooring, insulation, siding, roofing tiles, popcorn ceilings, ductwork and other materials. It is most harmful when it has begun to crumble, fray, tear or becomes brittle. Exposure can lead to Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer, Asbestosis, and other serious medical conditions. The PuroClean Team has highly trained workers who perform the abatement of Asbestos in a safe and cost efficient manner. The Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) regulations require schooling and up-to-date certification for project supervisors and workers. Supervisors receive a special supervisory course. Each PuroClean Asbestos Technician is insured for Workers Compensation and has an Alabama Safe State Supervisor Certification. PuroClean Property Rescue employees have the training necessary to assist the homeowner with identify-

PuroClean

ing potential hazards. These abatement professionals can assess your needs and they offer free estimates. If potential hazards are identified, they can also collect samples of the material and send them to an Independent Laboratory for confirmation of the test results. Once verified that an Asbestos hazard exists, the Technician will discuss the recommended course of action for safe and effective removal. PuroClean also provides services to properly remove, contain, transport, and dispose of asbestos contaminated material. PuroClean Property Rescue is a locally owned franchise serving North Alabama. They specialize in property damage remediation for water, fire, smoke, odor, and mold; plus they offer services for biohazard cleanup, contents packing and storage, dwelling tear out and debris disposal. They are certified by the Better Business Bureau, EPA Lead Safe, IICRC CleanTrust, State of Alabama Renovation Contractors, and accredited by Alabama Safe State. They are members of the Alabama Home Builders Association.For more information on PuroClean, please contact at 256-729-5067 or visit www.puroclean. com/ppr-al

Property Rescue

Office: 256-729-5067 Cell: 256-509-8376 8468 US Hwy 72 • Athens, AL 35611 dcowan@puroclean.com • www.puroclean.com/ppr-al

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August 3 - August 16, 2012

Learning As A Lifestyle

Southern Writers The South has produced some of the best known authors. Harper Lee is from Alabama. Margaret Mitchell, Flannery O’Connor, and Carson McCullors are from Georgia. William Faulkner and Tennessee Williams are from Mississippi. Truman Capote is from Louisiana, and these are only a few of the Southern Writers. Saturday, September 8, the Center for Lifelong Learning is hosting a free workshop, Kudzu Chronicles, a Southern Writers Event at Art on the Square. There are four panel discussions – Writing Tips, Writing Children’s Books, How to Get Published, and Researching and Genealogy. The featured speakers include C.S. (Christopher) Fuqua, Robert S. Davis, Dr. Julie Hedgepeth Williams, and Frank Travis.

Robert S. Davis is the author of Civil War Atlanta and Andersonville Civil War Prison. He has

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more than 1,000 publications dealing with genealogy, history, records, and research. He has been widely quoted by or appeared in CNN, Time, Smithsonian, Newsweek, the Wall Street Journal, and elsewhere. C.S. (Christopher) Fuqua is the author of Alabama Musicians: Musical Heritage from the Heart of Dixie. As a guitarist and craftsman of Native American flutes, C.S. Fuqua’s interest in music led him to research and write numerous magazine articles about music and musicians. A native Alabamian and full-time freelance writer, he lives in Athens, Alabama. His published books include Notes to My Becca, Divorced Dads, and the four-novel audio book series Deadlines. His poems, short stories, and nonfiction articles have appeared widely in newspapers, magazines, and journals.

lie Hedgepeth Williams is a journalism professor at Samford University. She received a B.A. in English and history from Principia College in Elsah, Illinois, a Master’s in journalism and a Ph.D. in mass communications from the University of Alabama. She lives in Birmingham, Alabama.

by Wanda Campbell

ticipants will be able to talk with authors and get books signed. Stop by the Silent Auction to bid on other signed books from authors such as Rheta Grimsley Johnson, Daniel Wallace, Mark Childress, and many more. Refreshments will be served. The fee is $20. For a brochure about this event, call 256-233-8260 or go to our website, athens.edu/CLL. This is

such a great opportunity for Athens. Whether you want to write your family history or write a novel, Kudzu Chronicles will give you a chance to hear from people who have already been successful. Ask your questions, learn how to do the background research and get the writing tips you need to get started or get finished. Learning is a lifestyle and this is a very special learning opportunity.

Frank Travis will be presenting Livin’ Poetry. He is known throughout the state of Alabama as “Mr. Poetry,” as most of his spare time is spent performing his “Livin’ Poetry” presentation at schools all across the state. Friday, September 7, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm, there will be a Meet and Greet event with the authors. Par-

Dr. Julie Hedgepeth Williams is the author of A Rare Titanic Family: The Caldwell’s Story of Survival. Dr. Ju-

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August 3 - August 16, 2012

Cover Story

Sugar Mama’s: Sweet And Seasonal Treats by Ali Elizabeth Turner

continued from page 1

I reluctantly turned down her offer of one of the warm cookies, and chose a mini-cupcake that was sugar free. I know myself well enough to I realize that I “can’t eat just one,” and managed to stop at two. No harm, no foul. Leigh, who is one of the coowners, is the daughter of Sugar Mama’s owner Stephanie Sutton, and they come from several generations of bakers. Denise Bolen had worked for the previous owners as well as the bakery at Wal-Mart for 10 years. April Patten, who works nearby used to come by the shop and try her hand at making roses. It was through April that Stephanie came out from Huntsville to check out the shop, and Sugar Mama’s Sweet Treats was born in the fall of 2010.

them are Oreo cheesecake, orange Creamsicle, butter pecan, and hazelnut. As we were discussing illustrations for the article, Leigh showed me a picture of a “popcorn cake.” When I first looked at it, I didn’t realize it was a cake and wondered why she was showing it to me. She laughed and told me that the “popcorn” is made out of cut up marshmallows, rolled around to shape them into “popped kernels,” and then slightly airbrushed, using yellow food color-

ing! Like so many bakers these days, Leigh is addicted to the TV program Cake Boss, and as a result of watching “the Boss,” has gotten so she can do some serious piping, which apparently “ain’t easy.” She agrees with me that Cake Boss has taken cake decorating to a whole new level and has forced bakers all over America to “bake outside the box.”

of seasonally flavored items from which to choose. Those flavors include pumpkin, Christmas mint and eggnog, with cake pops (cake truffles put on a popsicle stick) decorated to look like snowmen.

Leigh says she “likes to experiment with stuff,” and soon will be offering cake truffles that will look like bumblebees. Sugar Mama’s has also recently added pies to their venue. Their great-grandmother, Juanita Campbell Sutton, or “Diddle,” was known for her fudge. They use her pecan pie recipe, as well as the recipe for her cheese straws. During the holidays there will be a number

Custom work and being innovative is absolutely necessary if a cake shop is going to make it these days, and Leigh says they are “willing to try anything at least once.” A Tennessee fan had her truffle cakes decorated with an orange jersey and the Tennessee T. Of course, Alabama and Auburn cakes are on display, and the same kind of cakes and truffles are available sporting your favorite team’s colors and logos. “We can work around just about any food allergy, and have some gluten free and sugar free recipes as well,” says Leigh. Recently they made some sugar free cupcakes for an event held at the Riviera gym.

Leigh, a young mother who is heading toward a business degree and works on the week- e n d s , has made peanut butter cookies a best seller. She tells of how much she loves to watch her mother “free hand” cake decorations, (i.e., just look at a picture and replicate it with frosting,) and the Sutton women use recipes that have been handed down for generations. Another of Sugar Mama’s most popular items is the cake truffle, a small flavored cake that is coated with frosting that makes it look just like a truffle. I know from a bridal shower I attended how yummy they are, and just recently Sugar Mama’s added new flavors to their cake truffle line up. Among

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understand that there’s a recession on,” says Leigh, “and we try to work with people so they can get what they want at an affordable price.” Come and see what’s been cooked up at Sugar Mama’s, located on Hwy 31 in Athens, and I dare you to “eat just one.”

“We

also

Sugar Mama’s Sweet Treats

616 Hwy 31, Suite D, Athens, AL, 35611 Phone: 256-233-5217 Hours: Mon-Fri 10 am-5pm, Sat 10am-2pm info@sugarmamassweettreats.com and facebook www.athensnowal.com

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Cover Story

Alabama Orthotics And Prosthetics: “Where Relationships Last A Lifetime” by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

uncle’s farm. His left leg was completely mangled, and had to be amputated above the knee. That same October, by the time Jerry was seventeen, he was walking in his calling and mission: “To get amputees up and back to daily living.” Today at the age of 62, he has six clinics in two states, nearly 30 employees, and has a special desire to reach out with personalized long term care to all amputees in the Valley, including the veterans who have recently lost limbs in Iraq and Afghanistan. His career started in Memphis at a firm named Snell’s Limbs and Braces, where he apprenticed and learned the trade, no small task while learning how to handle being an amputee himself. “This was back in the day when prostheses were still mostly made out of wood and lacquer,” he told me, although his was one of the early “legs” made out of plastic. While at Snell’s he received his certification in prosthetics, and took college courses as part of his training. He studied at Northwestern University in Chicago, as well as NYU. While in Chicago he learned how to make prostheses for upper and lower leg amputees, and while in New York he studied production for upper extremity prostheses. He spent 10 years in Memphis, has been here for 35 years, and because what he does is his “passion and calling,” he has no plans for quitting any time soon.

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Jerry told me further that what he does is an art. “Anyone can make a prosthetic limb, but not everyone can make it fit. By “fitting,” he means far more than getting the correct physical measurements, or making sure it’s comfortable. The entire field has gotten so sophisticated

As is the case with any truly successful health care practice, he has surrounded himself with people who are both compassionate and competent, and everyone made me feel most welcome. I found it both interesting and comforting to know that he made sure that he has an amputee on staff in each of the clinics. “We can look at someone who has just lost a limb or limbs and say, ‘we know what you are going through,’” and it’s true. For example, at the Huntsville office one of the certified licensed prosthetists by the name of Eric Andrews is what is known as a “bi-lateral below the knee amputee.” In other words, Eric lost both of his legs, and has turned his calamity around into a successful career. I had the chance to watch different ones in various stages of familiarity with their prostheses “take their limb out for a spin,” and all of them greeted me with a smile. “Every person, job, surgery is different,” Jerry

told me, “and we do not want any amputee to get anything other than personal, individualized care.” To that end, he makes sure that each patient comes in every three months, no matter how long ago they became an amputee. “It’s very important,” he said, and told me horror stories of people whose limb loss has been complicated further by ill fitting or poorly functioning prostheses. One woman named Lorie Clotfelter first came to Jerry when she was 18, having gotten too old for the Shriner’s Hospital program for child amputees. A mowing accident took her leg below the knee, and she has been seeing Jerry for 35 years. It is apparent that she is part of the family, and she has gotten great care for decades now.

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that it is almost as though The Six Million Dollar Man/Woman is no longer a sci-fi TV program. That type of what used to be considered “futuristic” prosthesis is part of a science called “symbionics,” and it uses both electronics as well as hydraulics. This is the type Jerry uses, and he programmed the microchip that sees to it that the alignment, range of motion, swing, and any other part of the artificial limb is workLeft: Derek Ricks a right ing in harmony above knee amputee with the body. Right: Dane Swanson A symbionic Certifed and Licensed solution is not Prosthetist for everyone, and the whole staff is involved making sure patients are fully comfortable with their product, that it fits their age and lifestyle. I asked him, God forbid, if I should ever lose a limb, why should I come to Alabama Orthotics and Prosthetics? He answered simply, “Because we try harder,” and I believe they do.

Alabama Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc. 2100 Franklin Street • Huntsville, AL 35801 Alabama Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc. 1021 6th Avenue SE • Decatur, AL 35601 Shoals Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc. 840 Florence Blvd • Florence, AL 35630 August 3 - August 16, 2012

August 3 - August 16, 2012

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Dog Barker

What You Don’t Know by Joel Allen

Recently, I watched a documentary titled, “One Nation Under Dog”. I would recommend only watching this with no children present. There is one scene I wish to talk about in the documentary. Keep in mind the definition of euthanasia. EuthanasiaAlso called mercy killing. the act of putting to death painlessly or allowing to die, as by withholding extreme medical measures, a person or animal suffering from an incurable, especially a painful, disease or condition; painless death. The scene opens with men taking dogs out of kennels and placing them into a steel, square dumpster style chamber. Some dogs are scrambling to get away and look terrified as they are caught by the men and carried to the chamber. They are crammed into this chamber and the lid is closed and sealed by the men. The whole time this is going on, the cameras do not show their faces or indicate the location. The men step away from the chamber and the camera follows one of the men to another part of the ken-

nel. As the camera enters this area, you can see gas tanks/welder’s tanks

off and it follows him back out to the chamber where he opens the lid and the camera pans over the dead dogs. One dog in

place them on top of the dead dogs and they repeat everything all over again. The howling was horrible. At the end of the scene the men unhook the gas hoses and a dump truck drives up to take the dead dogs away. Now, read the definition again. The last part when it says “painless death,” what is so painless about that scene? Let me be clear, this should not be happening. Places like this should be held accountable. If you

attached to a hose leading back to the chamber. The man reaches up and turns the knob, and then the camera pans back to the chamber where you hear the dogs in the chamber screaming. I mean literally screaming. You can hear the agony. By this time I am ready to wretch up my dinner and I am sobbing uncontrollably because I cannot believe the cruelty I am witnessing. Then the camera shows the man turning the knob

particular, is laying there with its eyes open. They looked like they all died painfully. Then the men go and get puppies and

check around, you may find that some Veterinarians are paid to euthanize dogs. Blood money is

not worth your soul, and I believe God holds them accountable that do this. Yes, we have an overpopulation issue with pets, but, spaying and neutering are only part of the answer. It’s time to stop this and expose it for what it really is, “HITLERISM”. We have an inherent responsibility to take care of these dogs. Look at your dog and think, “What if it was them?” Say, your dog got loose and the local animal control catches them. Yes, here there is a 5 day stray hold. What if you don’t check with the pound and you sit home missing your “Baby” and their time runs out? Not saying that here in Limestone they gas the unwanted pets, but what if?

Lastly, we need more or bigger “No Kill Shelters”. Support your local no kill shelters, adopt a pet, and let’s raise up our voices to stop this cruelty.

“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

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August 3 - August 16, 2012

Health and Fitness

How BMI Affects Arthritis and Joint Pain by Janet Hunt

Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment. Maintaining a healthy weight can help your joints and ease arthritis pain. BMI stands for body mass index, an estimate of your body fat based on your weight and height. BMI is a more reliable indicator of body fat than weight. Knowing your BMI can help you and your doctor determine if you’re at a healthy weight. Generally a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy. If you’re older than 65, it may be better to have a BMI between 25 and 27. Maintaining a healthy weight, or normal weight, can benefit joints already

August 3 - August 16, 2012

affected by arthritis. One pound of weight puts an additional 4 pounds of pressure on your knees! Therefore, you can reduce joint pain by shedding pounds, even as little as 10 percent of your total body weight. Doing so can also decrease your risk of developing arthritis in joints not already affected, and lower the chances that you’ll need a joint replacement. Even though there are many diets and exercise programs out there, the simplest way to lose weight is to eat less and move more. If you need help getting moving, talk to a personal trainer to design a program to fit your

specific needs, contact local gyms for a free trial, or look for community programs in senior centers, churches, etc. BMI is frequently used as an indicator for how body weight affects health. A normal-weight BMI reduces risk for a number of

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health problems, including: • High blood pressure • Low good cholesterol or high bad cholesterol • Type 2 diabetes • Heart disease • Stroke

While BMI is useful, it’s just one of many factors that influence your overall health. Your cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure levels, whether you smoke, your diet and your current level of physical activity all play a role.

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August 3 - August 16, 2012

The World According to Will

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

News Alert: The New York Times Hits A Homerun On Health Care And Doctor Shortages by Will Anderson Update: Back In Rehab

I transferred back to Vanderbilt’s Stallworth Rehab Hospital yesterday afternoon, where I will be continuing my push to strengthen my upper body and regain my range of motion in my legs. Eventually, despite what some at first believed, I’ll be walking again normally. Follow me on Facebook (keywords “the will anderson show”) for the latest updates, including pictures of me rehabbing and pictures of the car I was driving when I had the accident. And “like” the show page while you’re there!

August 3 - August 16, 2012

It wasn’t exactly front page news—it’s the lead story in the Money and Policy sec-

tion—but nevertheless, the Times ran it. The headline is “Doctor Shortage Likely to Worsen With Health Law.” Here’s how the story starts: “RIVERSIDE, Calif. — In the Inland Empire, an economically depressed region in Southern California, President Obama’s

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health care law is expected to extend insurance coverage to more than 300,000 people by 2014. But coverage will not necessarily translate into care: Local health experts doubt there will be enough doctors to meet the area’s needs. There are not enough now.” There you have it—yet another example of tomorrow’s news today on the show. I’ve been stressing for months that there is a

difference between health CARE and health COVERAGE. As my good friend Jim pointed out a week or so ago (and he was only halfway kidding), if the nation had been fully laboring under ObamaCare, I’d still be waiting on a doctor. But by golly, I’d be covered! Cognitive dissonance plagues me as I urge you to read the whole New York Times story—and, for once, take it seriously.

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Medical Update

High Temperatures Increase Health Risks For People With Diabetes

by ARA Content

in high temperatures. Both alcohol and caffeine have diuretic effects that can increase risks of dehydration.

(ARA) - For the nearly 26 million Americans living with diabetes, high temperatures and increased sun exposure can pose particularly dangerous health risks. During warm weather, experts caution that people with diabetes must take extra care to avoid serious, heat-related conditions. “Heading to the beach, the pool or the park is a great way to cool down and stay in shape when the temperature rises, but people with diabetes may not realize the heat can place them at greater risk for serious, heat-related illness,” says Dr. Deneen Vojta, senior vice president and chief clinical officer of UnitedHealth Group’s Diabetes Prevention and Control Alliance (DPCA). “Diabetes actually impairs a person’s ability to sweat, which means that hot, humid weather can dangerously reduce the body’s regulation of blood sugar levels. That’s why it is critical that people with this disease take proper precautions to avoid conditions like heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”

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7. Be alert for common signs of heat exhaustion. Signs of serious health-related illnesses can include: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting and fainting.

Vojta advises that people with diabetes should be on the lookout for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke and seek medical attention right away if they experience symptoms.

Vojta offers seven simple tips that may help people with this disease to stay active, healthy and safe when temperatures are high: 1. Check your blood sugar levels often. Changes in activity and heat levels can affect your body’s insulin needs. 2. Wear sunblock. Sunburn can tax your body and trigger in-

creased blood glucose levels. 3. Stay cool. Take regular breaks from the heat in airconditioned areas or designated cooling centers, if possible. Make sure to exercise in an air-conditioned place or exercise during early morning and evening hours when temperatures are cooler. 4. Keep medication and sup-

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plies cool and away from direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures and sunlight can have a damaging effect on diabetes medication such as insulin, causing the drug to break down or become less effective. 5. Stay hydrated. Dehydration stresses the body and affects glucose levels. 6. Avoid caffeine and alcohol

Additional resources on managing and preventing diabetes can be found by visiting the websites of the American Diabetes Association (www. diabetes.org) and the National Diabetes Education Program (ndep.nih.gov/resources). UnitedHealth Group also offers a range of helpful tips and information on the disease at www.unitedhealthgroup.com/ diabetes.

August 3 - August 16, 2012

Security Savvy

Top 10 Tips For Personal And Property Safety On Campus by Jim Doyle, owner of Madison Security Group Jim Doyle is still on the mend, so this week’s column is courtesy of ARA Content.

(ARA) - It’s time to start backto-college planning, buying school supplies and preparing for move-in day at campuses around the country. Students will be living independently, meeting new friends and enjoying all that the college experience has to offer. However, young adults on their own - many for the first time - can be unfamiliar with personal safety risks, often sharing too much information and exposing themselves to a variety of security threats, including theft.

“College is a wonderful rite of passage full of important learning experiences both academic and social,” says Rebecca Smith, vice president, marketing for Master Lock. “For students to get the most out of their time on campus and in the classroom, they must be aware of various safety risks they face and take the necessary precautions to safeguard not only their possessions, but themselves, as well.” Here’s a list of 10 tips that college students should keep in mind as they move to campus (parents: slip this into your students’ luggage.): * Stay in touch. Share your class schedule with family and friends and arrange regular calls while walking to and from class. This way, your loved ones know you’re going to class and that you’re safe. * Secure the perimeter. You wouldn’t just leave the front door to your house open, would you? It works the same way on campus. Never let someone into your residence hall you don’t know and never prop doors open. * Lock it up. Whether

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you’re simply headed to the shower or down the hall to a friend’s room, lock your door every time you leave to keep all of your valuables safe when you’re away. Consider

purchasing individual locking devices for expensive electronics like your laptop, such as the Master Lock SafeSpace Laptop Computer Lock. With one laptop stolen every 53 seconds, according to a Gartner Group study, this visual theft deterrent can help protect your investment. * Be safe online. In today’s digital age it’s too easy to share personal information online. Avoid updates on any websites that share your location or personal information and make sure your settings are private. Store your online user names, passwords, bank account and other confidential info at masterlockvault.com. This digital safe deposit box is free, secure, and convenient to use 24/7 via smart phone app or website.

representative immediately to ensure your safety and the security of the building. * Lock and check your car. Be sure to always lock your car

and never leave any valuables in plain view. Remember to also check on it from time to time.

and late night walking escorts and other safe transportation systems. * Protect your stuff. Whether studying in the library or eating in the union, it’s tempting to run to the bathroom or grab a quick snack while leaving your laptop, identification, smartphone or keys on the table. Consider investing in a portable mini-safe like the Master Lock 5900D SafeSpace that can help keep valuables safe when unattended. * Know your numbers. Keep all important emergency phone numbers stored in your phone and at least one other place like the Master Lock

Vault (in case your phone is also stolen). This includes campus security and the telephone numbers to your bank and credit card company. Should you have your wallet stolen or be put in a risky situation, you will have all the contact information you need. Also, sign up for your school alert system to be notified of emergency situations on campus via text, email or phone.

* Phone a friend. Regardless of time of day, when heading out across campus, find a friend who is also headed your way. Safety in numbers should never be discounted.

For more advice on campus safety and security, visit www. masterlock.com.

* Map it out. Take time to familiarize yourself with the campus. You should know where emergency phones are located, the best-lit paths to take and the safest ways to get around during both the day and night. Be aware and observant of your surroundings. Check out the services your campus offers such as evening

* Keep track of keys. With one to open your mailbox, another for your residence hall and yet another for your room, it’s tough to keep track of all of your keys, but also very important. If you lose a set, report it to your residence hall

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August 3 - August 16, 2012