December 5, 2014

December 5 - 18, 2014

AthensNowal.com E-MAIL: info@athensnowal.com ADVERTISING: Ali: 256-468-9425 Deborah: 256-309-9399

Nina’s Place Home Furnishings: “We Don’t Carry A Brand, We Make It By Hand!”

See Our Listings Inside this edition...

Pages 25 - 32

All Things Soldier The Legend That Was Louie Zamperini...

Louie Zamperini literally faced down many enemies in his near century of life, including Adolph Hitler, Josef Goebbels, Japanese prison camps and maniacal... Page 4

Clean And Green

KALB Displays Butts On The Square...

If you have spent any time on the Athens Courthouse Square during the last few weeks, then you probably saw KALB’s giant butts...

Page 12

By Ali Elizabeth Turner Back in 2009, while driving down Hwy 72 W near Dupree Worthey Road, I noticed a sign and some furniture pieces displayed outdoors that caused me to turn straight into the driveway of Nina’s Place Home Furnishings. This is because they had the unmistakable look

Betsy Poppell, of Nina’s Place

Continued on pages 15

McGuire Plumbing: “We Won’t Drain Your Wallet” Jerry’s Journal On the Possum’s Trail With Jimmie “Two Hills”...

One day in 1974, Country Music legend George Jones called Jimmie Hills’ barber shop and made an appointment. “No Show” Jones didn’t ...

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December 5 - December 18, 2014

By Ali Elizabeth Turner I chuckled out loud when Kevin McGuire gave me his business card and I read the tag line. We met at the buildings being renovated on Market Street and just north of the Courthouse Annex where he and his crew were working. Truly a promise given by a Continued on page 17

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December 5 - December 18, 2014

Publisher’s Point

Natalie’s Cakes And More, One Sweet Thing To Come Out Of Ferguson

Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Sales

Deborah Huff

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Delivery

Hunter Williams

Contributing Writers Shelley Underhill Wanda Campbell Janet Hunt Teresa Todd Joel Allen Brian Black Lynne Hart Rachel Clark, RN, BSN Jerry Barksdale

My dear friend and Juice Plus upline sponsor, Carrie Radnov, was a guest in my home when Ferguson, MO blew up the first time over the death of 18-yearold Michael Brown. She is a resident of St Louis, and she had to reroute her drive home due to the rioting. In addition, she had considerable concern for her daughter’s safety, as her daughter lives in Ferguson only a few blocks where some of the worst incidents have occurred.

Carrie’s heart for her town was burdened, and the night of the DA’s announcement was going to be a long one. We prayed that cool heads would prevail, and that God would bring good out of the grand jury’s findings. Sadly, things blew up, and as of this writing, the situation continues to be volatile. Nevertheless, there has been one story out of Ferguson that has a true silver lining, that of a bakery known as Natalie’s Cakes and More.

The night the announcement was made in regard to the grand jury’s decision to not press charges against the officer who shot Brown, I sat in

Natalie Dubose invested everything she had in order to open her bakery this past June.

Her shop was one of the casualties of the riots, and there

star Brandi Glandville, along with talk show host Rush Limbaugh were among those who got the word out.

To everyone’s shock, in a matter of a few days, over $230,000 was raised, significantly more than what would be needed to rebuild the bakery. “Thank you to actresses Patricia Heaton and Brandi Glanville for supporting me!” Dubose said. “I must have missed thousands

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 6 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 8 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Clean and Green . . . . . . . . 12 Cooking with Shelley . . . . . . 13 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 14 Cover Stories . . . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . 18 Dog Barker . . . . . . . . . 20 Jerry’s Journal . . . . . . . . 21

my living room, she in hers, and we texted back and forth as we listened to the District Attorney read his measured statement. While the grand jury’s conclusions seemed more than reasonable, given the evidence, it did not mean that the rule of law would triumph.

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

December 5 - December 18, 2014

was no way she was going to be able to fulfill her orders for baked goods for Thanksgiving. A website was opened where people could donate to help Natalie rebuild her shop, and through a most positive use of mass media, Natalie’s plight went viral. Actress Patricia Heaton and reality show

of other tweets, and I’m so sorry I can’t mention them all.

The sweet lady who offered money from her social security check brought me to tears. … Thank you to EVERYONE for the kind words, prayers, and emotional support.”

Not only has the outpouring been generous, it has also been

speedy. In the first 20 hours the site was opened, more than $100,000 was raised. Natalie has been wonderfully overwhelmed by the generosity of everyday Americans. She said, “I would [like to] thank everyone for their warm wishes, empathy, and support during this crazy difficult time.”

While it may be that our prayers for Ferguson were not answered in the way we had

hoped, in a way this answer is even “sweeter.” Why? Because in this hour where some people’s desire is to cause strife, no one would know the extent of the generosity of loving Americans of every color if Natalie had not suffered loss. Indeed, lemonade has been made out of bitter lemons, and it looks like it will be served with one of Natalie’s cakes for all of us to enjoy for years to come.

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

athensnowal.com www.athensnowal.com

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All Things Soldier

The Legend That Was Louie Zamperini

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

Louie Zamperini literally faced down many enemies in his near century of life, including Adolph Hitler, Josef Goebbels, Japanese prison camps and maniacal torturers, juvenile delinquency, alcoholism and PTSD. By God’s saving grace and discovering the power of forgiveness, he beat them all.

There have been several books written about his extraordinary life of triumph, the most recent entitled Unbroken, written by Laura Hillenbrand, New York Times bestselling author of Seabiscuit. On Christmas Day, the film version of Unbroken will be released, and if it is anything close to accurate in portraying this shining example of the Greatest Generation, it will be a splendid gift to “unwrap” time and time again.

Zamperini was born in 1917 in New York to Italian immigrants. In 1919 they moved to California, and he found himself being bullied due to the fact that he did not yet speak English. As a result, while in school he became a scrappy fighter. While he was a quick study in regard to English, he began to get into trouble and was headed for an early career as a juvenile delinquent. It was

he surrendered, he was “all in” for the rest of his life. The most dramatic aspect of his conversion story had to do with learning the power of forgiveness, and once he forgave his captors, he says that he “never had another nightmare.” Now, it is one thing to forgive one’s tormentors a half a world away from them, but it is another to make several trips to Japan to hug them and give them a chance to hear the gospel.

Louie made a point of going to the Japanese prisons where

his older brother Pete, himself a track star, who was the first to come to the rescue of his little brother. Pete encouraged Louie to join him in track and field, which helped to straighten Louie out. Early on in his adolescent track career, Louie began to set records, some which stood for years.

Lou was the recipient of a full track scholarship to the University of Southern California, and ran in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. His performance garnered him a face-to-face with Hitler and Goebbels, Hitler referring

to him as “the boy with the fast finish.” He enlisted in the Army Air Corps, and while on a search and rescue mission, his plane crashed, killing 8 of the 11 onboard. For 47 days he and the other two survivors were adrift, fighting sharks, surviving on small amounts of rainwater and fish, and on the 33rd day, one of them died. Then they were captured by the Japanese when their raft came ashore on one of the Marshall Islands.

For two years, until the end of the war in 1945, he was in

Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)

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11am - 1pm and 5pm-7pm

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several Japanese camps and the recipient of unspeakable torments, including “medical experimentation.” After the camps were liberated, he experienced what so many of our troops do, a period of euphoria, followed by depression, substance abuse, and the rest of the gambit of symptoms that we now know as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

He married, had two kids, and his drinking took a huge toll on his relationship with his wife. He was tormented by nightmares, sometimes dreaming that he was strangling his captors. His wife attended a Billy Graham crusade and became born again. At first Lou was highly resistant, but once

his captors were serving terms for war crimes, spoke to them through an interpreter, and several became Christians.

He went on to be an inspirational speaker, an author, ran a camp for troubled kids, and just recently passed at the age of 97. He was known for his sense of humor, his boundless energy, and finally quit snow skiing at the age of 91.

There are fewer and fewer of the Greatest Generation amongst us, and soon they will all be gone. Let us learn well from them as well as from Louie regarding how to be “unbroken,” and do what we can to carry on their legacy. We owe it to them.

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Calendar of Events

Downtown Athens Christmas Window Contest Through Dec 12th

Downtown Athens, AL. Stroll the participating merchants and pick your favorite for the “People’s Choice”. Voting is from Dec 2nd - 9th and winner will be announced Dec 10th. To vote on your favorites, visit the Spirit of Athens Christmas Window Decorating Contest Facebook Page.

Polar Express at Whistle Hollow Farms Through Dec 17th

Whistle Hollow Farms, 701 Lofton Hall Road, Ardmore, TN. Choose from either 9:00AM or 12:00PM, Monday-Friday for an adventure on the farm. Enjoy the Polar Express on the big screen with hot chocolate and homemade cookies. There will be a special guest and souvenir to take thome too. School groups, day cares and parents with children at home are welcome - groups of 100-125 can be accommodated. Cost is $6.00 per person. Enjoy lunch for an additional $2.00 per person. For more information or to make a reservation: 931-638-3501 or whistlehollowfarm@att.net

We Love Pam Shopping Extravaganza Dec 6th

10 a.m. til 2 p.m. Athens Tourism Office, located at 100 N. Beaty Street, Athens, AL. Do your Christmas Shopping and help Pamela and Mike Blackburn at the same time. For information please contact Mary Wimbs @ 256-758-1324.

Elkmont Lions Club Christmas Parade Dec 6th

Old Fashioned Christmas in Rogersville and Yule Log Ceremony Dec 6th

Historic Rogersville Presbyterian Church 1889 Dements Street, Rogersville, AL Join the Rogersville Historical Preservation Committee for this free event at 7:00PM following the parade.

There will be several musical selections from local children and vocalist along with a traditional Yule Log Ceremony on the grounds of the church.

Bells of Christmas Holiday Home Tour Dec 7th

The Athens Ladies Civitan Bells of Christmas Tour of Homes, Decmeber 7th from 1-5 p.m. Tickets are on sale at the following locations: Crawford’s Gifts, First National Bank (Hwy 72), Haley Marie’s, KALB office, Nestle Toll House Cafe, Pablo’s On the Square, Pam’s Home Furnishings, Pimento’s, Shea Leigh’s, and Trinity of Athens. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 day of event. 5 of Limestone County’s exclusive homes will be open for touring.

Call 256-233-0258 for information.

Christmas Makes Everything New Concert Dec 7th

Wooley Springs Baptist Church. 28025 Bethel Road, Toney, AL. Join the Wooley Springs Baptist Church Choir at 2:30PM or 6:00PM for this Christmas Choir Musical For more information: 256-4233494.

The Light of Christmas Concert Dec 8th

Elkmont, AL. Join the Elkmont Lions Club for Christmas cheer and to welcome Santa to Elkmont. More information to come. To register your float, marching band, group or individual participant, please call 256-732-4211.

First Christian Church, 400 West Market Street, Athens, AL. Come clebrate the season with The Heritage Children’s Chorale with Mary Stephenson, Founder-Director at 7:30PM. Admission: Free.

AHS JROTC Jingle Bell Jog 5K Run/Walk Dec 6th

Ardmore Christmas Parade Dec 9th

Athens High School, 100 U.S. Highway 31N, Athens, AL. More details to come. Contact Chief James Chambers at (256) 233-6619 or james.chambers@acs-k12.org for more details.

Christmas Tour of Homes Dec 6th

Join the Friends of the Ardmore Public Library from 3PM-7PM for tour of local homes decked in their holiday finest. Homes to be toured include: Alish Schrimsher, Cecelia and Andy Hargrove, Ronny Cornelison, Elayne Shannon, Ginger and Kevin Dunn and Mattie and Jerry Lipham. Tickets are $10 and can be picked up from an Ardmore Friends of the Library Member, Ardmore Public Library, Ardmore City Hall, Ardmore Town Hall and First National Bank in Ardmore.

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Ardmore AL/TN. Santa is coming to Ardmore with floats, marching bands and more. This year’s theme will be “Melodies of Christmas”.

Line up starts at Ardmore High School at 5:00PM, parade starts at 6:30PM and marches down AL-251 to AL-53 To register your float, marching band, group or individual participants, please call 256423-3011 or 931-427-2421.

Santa’s Mailbox and Sleigh Visits Dec 10th - 24th

Ardmore Town Hall (Bryan House). 26494 First Street, Ardmore, AL. Grab the letters to Santa Claus and your little one’s and head to Santa’s Mailbox to drop them off. Elves will check the box daily.

Be sure to bring your camera and take photos at Santa’s sleigh too.

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December 5 - December 18, 2014

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December 5 - December 18, 2014

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

The Rotarian, Kareem, And Eureka!

by Ali Elizabeth Turner This is the first in a series of “Ronnies” that will be keyed off of several outstanding articles published in the Rotarian, the magazine put out by Rotary Club International. As is the case with any service organization that is meeting the needs of its members, the Rotarian has many articles written on leadership and personal development.

Kareem Abdul Jabbar, the famed 7’2” superstar who played basketball for de-

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cades, first for the Milwaukee Bucks, then for the Los Angeles Lakers, wrote an article entitled, Eureka!

The Four Elements Behind Every Great Invention. The article is a good one, and it generated lively discussion between the two of us.

First, we dated ourselves.

I first asked, “Remember when he was Lew Alcindor?” “I sure do,” replied the Mayor. Lew was a full two feet taller than I ever was, let alone when, as a

seasoned citizen, I began to shrink significantly. The idea of being over 7 feet tall is something I will never be able to get my head around. At some point Lew decided to change his name to Kareem, went on to have a long, amazing career, and retired as an undisputed NBA giant in every regard.

Kareem mentioned in his article something that he learned from his mentor, UCLA Coach John Wooden. He has applied Wooden’s statement to his own life ever since he left the collegiate basketball court.

“Things turn out the best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.” While no one disputes the importance of positive thinking as a foundation for anything that is successfully creative, what spoke to Mayor Ronnie

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was the fact that Kareem had distilled out four other elements that went far beyond the “glass that is half full.” They are behind every great invention that has blessed our lives, and become a part of how we function daily. Of inventors and their inventions, Kareem says, “… real accomplishment was the result of observation, imagination, commitment, and discipline.”

Observation means more than just being situationally aware; it means taking a detailed look at what can happen. From the standpoint of basketball, it means not just knowing where your opponents are, it’s anticipating where they’ll be “three seconds from now.”

Imagination, as Mayor Ronnie said, “is what gets the inventors somewhere.”

Commitment is what gave

Thomas Edison the stuff to press through over 15,000 “failed” experiments before the light bulb effectively went on. Kareem spoke of African American inventors whose inventions saved lives, but they were never given credit for it. It was clear that public adulation, (or the lack of it,) was not what motivated them, and in spite of tremendous odds, they went on to be successful. Discipline is something Kareem spent a good deal of the article discussing, because, by his own admission, he never saw himself as having all that much raw talent. He described himself as a young man as a “greyhound running across a freshly waxed floor.” However, it took literally years of daily practice under Wooden’s tutelage to become the player who had one of the longest careers in NBA history. “Being tall put me on the court, but being disciplined kept me winning on the court,” he said.

All of these are highly important points to consider, whether for an inventor, a city, or a Mayor, and they can be applied to any problem. “From basketball, to life, to church, to Rotary,” said the Mayor, “this is what makes for a truly ‘seamless city.’”

We talked about what the wonderful things Rotary is doing, both here in Athens, and all over the world, then we prayed.

Then he had to “roll,” this time to Birmingham.

December 5 - December 18, 2014

December 5 - December 18, 2014

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Tourism

What A Wonderful Life

by Teresa Todd, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association

Remember reading the Polar Express as a child and wanting to hear the ringing bells of Santa sleigh? Now through December 17th, you and your family can experience the Polar Express at Whistle Hollow Farms located at 701 Lofton Hall Road, Ardmore, TN. You can choose either 9:00AM or 12:00PM, Monday-Friday for an adventure on the farm.

Enjoy the Polar Express on the big screen with hot chocolate and homemade cookies. Make a lasting family memory. Admission is $6 per person. Enjoy lunch for an additional $2 per person. Contact 931-6383501 or whistlehollowfarm@ att.net to make a reservation.

Street, Ardmore, TN, Ardmore Town Hall 26704 Main Street, Ardmore, AL, or First National Bank 26591 Main Street, Ardmore, TN. The Belle Mina Station Christmas Open House will be held December 6th at 6855 Mooresville Road, Belle Mina, AL. Bring your list and enjoy the Belle Mina Station for a little holiday shopping, cheer, and light refreshments from 10AM to 5M. Call 256-3557059 for more information.

held on December 7th in Athens, AL. Five prominent Athens homes will be dressed up for the holidays and open for touring from 1PM to 5PM. Each home will have delicious sweet treats provided by local caterers for your enjoyment. This is a self-guided tour with hostesses at each home. Advanced tickets are $15 and can be purchased at Nestle Toll House U.S. 72-

rale with Mary Stephenson, Founder-Director. First Christian Church is located on 400 West Market Street in Athens, AL. Concert begins at 7:30PM with free admission.

6:30PM-9PM as they reenact the birth of Jesus in this annual walk-through production. For more information visit www. mablehillbaptist.org/bethlehem.html

The Ardmore Christmas Parade will be held on December 9th in Ardmore AL/TN. Santa is coming to Ardmore with floats, marching bands, and more. This year’s theme will be “Melodies

Visit Historic Mooresville, AL, for the Holiday Home Tour and Progressive Dinner. They are putting on their holiday finest, and invite you to enjoy the season with them on December 13th. Bright, fresh greenery and red bows decorate the street signs. Della Robbia wreaths colorfully deck the public buildings, and homes are decorated in the traditions of Christmas past.

Reserve your space on this exclusive tour that will visit locations and homes from 2PM until 7PM. Cost is $65.00 per person. For more information, or to make reservations, go to www.mooresvilleal.com/progressive-dinner.

Hand-bell Artist, Danny Lyons, with Bellissimo Hand-bell Quartet will be performing December 7th at McCandless Hall, Athens State University 300 North

The Mooresville Mercantile Holiday Open House will be held on Dec 5th & 6th located at 5081 Mooresville Road, Mooresville, AL. You will be impressed by the all American-made wares and goods available to fill your stockings or heap under the Christmas tree. Go to www.mooresvillemercantile.com/special-events for more information.

The Elkmont Lions Club Christmas Parade on December 6th begins at 1PM with the theme “A Disney Christmas” in Elkmont, AL. After the Elkmont Parade, continue the celebration of Christmas with the Ardmore Christmas Tour of Homes starting from 3PM till 7PM. Sponsored by the Friends of the Ardmore Public Library, enjoy the tour of local homes decked in their holiday finest. Homes to be toured include Alisha Schrimsher, Cecelia and Andy Hargrove, Ronny Cornelison, Elayne Shannon, Ginger and Kevin Dunn, and Mattie and Jerry Lipham. Purchase your $10 tickets from the Ardmore Public Library located on 25836 Main Street, Ardmore TN, Ardmore City Hall 25844 Main

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The Annual Spirit of Athens Sippin’ Cider will be held December 13th on the Downtown Square in Athens, AL from 5PM to 8PM. Enjoy samples of cider from participating merchants and vote by ballot for your favorite. The cider receiving the most votes wins bragging rights for the year.

The ballots will also serve as an entry to one of many door prizes to be given away.

Beaty Street, Athens, AL. Sponsored by the Livingston Concert & Lecture Series and the Center for Lifelong Learning, enjoy this special concert featuring Danny Lyons as he rings an entire 3 octave set of hand bells - 37 in all. He will be joined by the Bellissimo Hand-bell Quartet.

Concert starts at 3PM. Limited seating available for this free event. For ticket information, contact the Center for Lifelong Learning at 256-233-8262.

The Athens Ladies Civitan Holiday Tour of Homes will be

Athens, Shea Leigh’s on Hwy 72-Athens, Pimentos downtown Athens, 1st National Bank U.S. 72-Athens, Hallie Marie’s next to 306BBQ on U.S. 72-Athens, and Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful East Street-Athens.

Tickets at the door will be $20.

For more information contact Carolyn Stair, 256-233-0258.

Join First Christian Church on December 8th as they celebrate the season with “The Light of Christmas Concert” with The Heritage Children’s Cho-

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of Christmas.” Line up starts at Ardmore High School at 5PM, parade starts at 6:30PM, and marches down AL-251 to AL-53. To register your float, marching band, group, or individual participants, please call 256-423-3011 or 931-4272421.

Experience the unique Bethlehem Walk at Mable Hill Baptist Church located on 3778 Ready Section Road, Ardmore, AL on December 5th-7th and December 12th-14th from

Make your plans now to attend Yesterday’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve Variety Show at the Yesterday’s Event Center located on 15631 Brownsferry Road, Athens, AL. Don your partywear and come enjoy a night of your favorite music.

RSVP to info@yesterdaysevents.com.

Visit us at the Athens-Limestone County Tourism Office located at 100 N. Beaty Street, Athens, AL. for information on upcoming events, attractions, hotels and restaurants.

To learn more about Limestone County, please visit us online at www.VisitAthensAL.com or call 256-232-5411.

December 5 - December 18, 2014

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Clean and Green

KALB Displays Butts On The Square

by Lynne Hart

If you have spent any time on the Athens Courthouse Square during the last few weeks, then you probably saw KALB’s giant butts on display.

Now I know some of us may resemble that remark, but I am referring to giant cigarette butts! These giant butts were created and placed next to each of the new metal bell ash receptacles purchased

by KALB with grant money awarded through the Keep America Beautiful Cigarette Litter Prevention Program and a donation from T.R.A.I.L. (Together Renewing and Improving Limestone).

The amount of poisons in these butts may seem miniscule; however, when you consider that TRILLIONS are tossed, flicked, and squished annually, that adds up to a LOT of poisons. According to CigaretteLitter.org, smoking materials are the most littered item on earth and add up to millions of pounds per year.

We recognize that cigarette litter is an environmental issue, not a smoking issue -- just the same as soda manufacturers having no control over the consumer’s decision to litter drink containers. We respect Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks helping to get the message out

“just the facts”, here are some facts and statistics you can share with your friends and relatives that smoke who may need a reminder. Peer pressure works on grownups, too!

We are all so busy that we may not notice the amount of cigarette litter that exists.

That is exactly why this cigarette litter awareness program was developed. KALB hopes these giant cigarette butts will call attention to the location of the new ash receptacles and bring awareness to the dangers this type of litter causes. Each of the cigarette butts contains an individual fact about cigarette litter.

Cigarette litter is very small and often overlooked or equated with being harmless.

That couldn’t be further from the truth. Cigarette filters are made from tiny strands of plastic so small some people think they are made from cotton. They will remain in the environment a very long time. The filters are designed to trap the chemicals and poisons in burning tobacco.

When the filters are littered, they will find their way into ditches and waterways where the poisons wash out of them and into the ecosystem.

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• Smoking in the United States has decreased by 28% over that last 10 years, but remains the most littered item.

• Dropping, flicking, and stuffing filters in planters is littering and is against the law. The act warrants a citation.

the right of a person to smoke.

Our goal is to provide enough information so that smokers can make educated choices about discarding their waste once the cigarette has been smoked.

Here is a list of just a few of the chemicals found in cigarette filters: • Methanol • Arsenic • Butane • Cadmium

• Stearic Acid • Toluene • Nicotine • Ammonia These chemicals and more find their way into our aquatic ecosystems and endanger the living things that make the water their home. They are also very toxic to wildlife that mistake them for food, as well as toddlers who often put things in their mouths.

For those of you that prefer

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• Littered cigarette butts cause fires. Did you ever wonder how the grass fire you saw on the side of the road got started?

• 63% of cigarette butt littering is attributable to a lack of awareness about the environmental impact and insufficient ash receptacles. KALB is working to solve both problems through the purchase

of ash receptacles and our awareness program.

• Residents and businesses “pick up” the tab. Cigarette litter creates a need for more street and sidewalk sweeping, greenway and park cleaning, and storm drain cleaning.

• Auto manufacturers no longer put ashtrays in vehicles, which causes a dilemma.

Contact or visit the KALB office and we will provide smokers with portable ash receptacles that fit in a drink holder. We also have pocket ashtrays that will safely hold a cigarette butt until an ash receptacle is found.

Please share this information as often as you can because knowledge is key to changing behaviors. Watch for our giant butts to show up again.

Cigarette butts, that is!

(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com

Become a Fan

December 5 - December 18, 2014

Cooking with Shelley

Sausage Balls

by Shelley Underhill

Ms. Clara (my daughter) is at it again in the kitchen‌ Not so long ago I was awakened to the aroma of something baking in the oven. I couldn’t put my finger on what it might be, but I knew it was gonna be good! As I stumbled towards the kitchen, there she was...in full flight. She had a pan of sausage balls in the oven, she was rolling out more and she had this neat basket lined with cheese cloth to put them in (the basket reminded me of little Red Riding Hood). She was making them for her coworkers.

She reported to me that afternoon that they were a hit!

She also shared the recipe with me...

HEHEHE. They are very easy to make and keep well in their raw state. Because the recipe made more than what I needed at the time, I kept half of the mixture for later.

Hope you enjoy them as much as we did. They will be on my holiday menu.

What you will need: 1 pound bulk sausage ~ mild or spicy (your choice) 3 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar 1 cup parmesan cheese 3 1/2 cups Bisquick 1/2 cup milk A pinch of garlic powder 3 tablespoons parsley Mix together well all ingredients. Shape and roll into balls the size of a golf ball. Place on a greased sheet pan with sides. Bake on 350 for 20 minutes or until light brown.

December 5 - December 18, 2014

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Health and Fitness

Tips For Eating Out

by Janet Hunt

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

If you are trying to eat healthy or just trying to shed a few pounds, one of my first recommendations is do not eat out more than one or two times per week. Work or social obligations may sometimes make this difficult. If you find yourself eating out frequently, here are a few tips to follow.

•Check out the menu ahead of time. If you know where you are going, pull up the menu online and check out the healthy choices. Look for

items that are lower in sodium and lower in calories. Some restaurants have calories listed. If you know ahead of time what you plan on ordering, you will not be tempted by what others are choosing.

Also, try to order first and set the pace for the meal.

You will be surprised at how many follow your lead.

•Skip the buffets. If your friends insist on a restaurant with a buffet, go ahead and order off the menu and skip the buffet.

•Keep your meal simple.

Order grilled meat and simple vegetables. Make substitutions – steamed vegetables rather than French fries or mashed potatoes. Baked potatoes are healthy when eaten plain. Skip anything that is described as “loaded,” “cheesy,” or “creamy.”

•Drink water or calorie free beverages. Calories from sodas, sweetened teas, and alcoholic beverages can add up. These are just added calories that will not make you feel full.

it does not equal whole grain!

when it is a special treat and not the norm!

•Skip or split dessert.

Most desserts served are HUGE with a high amount of calories. Order one dessert and forks for all. A couple of bites will satisfy the sweet tooth. Or order dessert only on very special occasions. You will appreciate it more

Want more information about making healthy choices and changing your lifestyle? Contact Janet Hunt at jhunt1@ pclnet.net or 256-6143530 to find out when her next Weight Management and Lifestyle Class is offered.

•When ordering salad, ask for the dressing on the side. If salad comes with bacon, ham, cheese, croutons, etc., ask that they be left off. A salad loaded with high sodium, high fat toppings and loads of salad dressing probably has more calories than the burger and fries.

•Skip the bun. Most breads in restaurants are not whole grains so just ask for that sandwich without the bun or bread.

Reminder: just because they offer a wheat bun,

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Cover Story

Nina’s Place Home Furnishings: “We Don’t Carry A Brand, We Make It By Hand!” by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

of the substantive, artfully hand crafted, wood, metal, leather, stoneware and travertine home furnishings and décor that I had come to love so dearly while living and working in the late ‘90s with my husband at an orphanage in Juarez, Mexico. Nina’s has gone on to become one of my favorite stops on my Athens Now delivery route. I am always warmly greeted, the shop is a feast for the eyes and soul, and is a place to rest for a bit. The furniture is solid and the décor whimsical. I think all of it is a reflection of “Nina,” her staff and her family. Nina’s actual name is Melinda Freeman, and the nickname (which stuck), was given to her by her brother when they were kids.

Nina’s Place Home Furnishings just celebrated their 5 year anniversary, which I believe is a tribute to God’s grace, their great staff, friendly customer service, and from Melinda’s perspective, “None of this would have happened without my mother.” Her mom’s name is Betsy Poppell, and I can attest that she is indeed lovely, within and without. “She is a godsend, my best friend, and my biggest cheerleader,” says Nina. She then added, “She is so good with everyone and everything.”

Betsy holds down the fort when Melinda is gone on buying trips or is out back working on furniture, and she does a splendid job of it.

Another thing Melinda wanted to emphasize in this season of giving and giving thanks, is her gratitude for their loyal repeat customers.

“They really have become

like family. They come in all the time just to say hi, and recommend us to other people.”

She then added, “We could not do it without them, either. It has been a tough year, for our customers and for us, but things are looking up, and we are all still here.”

Melinda is a big fan of radio talk show host Dave Ramsey, who has helped many families become debt free through common sense, biblically based financial strategies, and implementing those principles has helped Nina’s Place stay in the black, even in lean times. As a result, she has an uncommon level of flexibility when it comes to selecting the pieces that fill Nina’s Place. She also is able to steer clear of the usual level of price mark up in

December 5 - December 18, 2014

and importing furniture so worth it is the joy she feels when someone finally sees the thing that they had lost hope of ever finding in a chain store or anywhere else.

She has helped give several local interior designers their start by employing them in the store, and loves it when they come back “home” with a client who is genuinely delighted in what is available.

One of the new additions at Nina’s Place about which many furniture dealers routinely engage.

“Every piece in here I have picked, and I love,” she told me.

She also indicated that one of the many things that makes all the hard work involved in selecting

which Melinda is pleased is the teak furniture that is being imported from India. Besides being solid, beautiful and trendy, it means she doesn’t need to travel quite as much.

“Now we have solid pine from Mexico, and solid teak from India,” she said with a smile.

On a personal note, being able to be at home more means she doesn’t have to be away from her dogs. Kitty, a Chihuahua, and Boo, a rescue pup found on a buying trip to Texas are most definitely part of the Nina’s Place family.

However, Melinda’s tender heart is not confined just to

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her pooches and the people in her life; she has also been involved in supporting international adoptions and fighting lupus.

Nina’s also makes a point of carrying the work of several local artisans, and does cross promoting of their work with other outlets.

They carry excellent quality unfinished furniture, and will custom finish pieces to suit the client’s exact needs.

They also specialize in painting furniture with the most current and popular interior color trends, and “if you bring in the paint, (and the piece you purchased has an unfinished surface,) there is no charge for painting or distressing it,” said Melinda.

Nina’s Place has a solid reason to hope and a clear vision for their future in the Athens area.

The business is doing well, they are passionate about giving back to the community, and the hard work is paying off. Come to Nina’s and enjoy the fruit of their labors, while you explore a homey furniture and interior design store where their motto is, “We don’t carry a brand, we make it by hand.”

Nina’s Place

30175 US Hwy 72 Madison, AL 35756 256-233-5720 256-233-5718 FAX www.ninasplace.biz www.facebook.com/pages/ ninasplaceal Hours: 10-6 Tue-Sat, 12-6 Sun, closed Mondays Page 15

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Cover Story

McGuire Plumbing: “We Won’t Drain Your Wallet”

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

continued from page 1

plumber to not drain one’s wallet is both welcome and rare, and I enjoyed hearing Kevin’s story.

He is “purebred and home grown,” as they say, having lived and worked in Limestone County all his life. He graduated from Elkmont High School, and he and Laurie have two kids, Madelyn, 15, and John, 12. They both have worn several hats in their careers, Laurie with real estate, property management/development and hospitality (with her work at Madelyn’s in the Grove), and Kevin with farming, construction, real estate investment and plumbing.

“I got my start with my dad, who is a master plumber, and that’s where I learned the trade,” said Kevin. I thought about the fact that we could use a wholesale return of dads teaching their sons a trade and instilling in them pride in their work as well as a conviction that their word is everything. “We farmed, did cows and hay, and I earned my master plumber’s certification,” said Kevin. Kevin and Laurie “flipped” houses for awhile until the housing and investment markets went sideways, and there was no longer any level of reasonable profit to be had.

Certain aspects of the construction industry became saturated, so Kevin decided to concentrate on the plumbing business. He is one of those rare birds who actually likes dealing with the muck, and gets an enormous sense of satisfaction when a tough job gets “all buttoned up.”

One of the things that he also enjoys is listening to his clients while he is on his back under a messed up sink. He has an especially protective heart for our “seasoned citizens,” who at times can be vulnerable and easily ripped off by scam artists or people who do shoddy work. “I do my very best to never disappoint,” he says.

I asked him to tell me about some of his projects, large and small, and the list is impressive. “We did several of the houses at Canebrake,” he said. I asked, “Do you prefer to do residential over commercial?” “Not really,” he said. “I like doing it all.” Some of the

commercial projects have included ConAgra, as well as several smaller businesses.

Most recently they did all of the plumbing upgrades for the temporary Limestone County Courthouse building down on Jefferson near the new library.

Kevin has been in the plumbing business for over 20 years, and built McGuire Plumbing on reputation, “going-the-extra-mile”

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Left to Right: Brandon Rager, Zack Adams, and Kevin McGuire

customer service and hard work. “We have had to do very little actual advertising,” he said, “and almost all of our business comes from word of mouth and referrals.”

“OK,” I said, “Let’s say I am new to the area, and need a plumber. Why should I come to you?” He answered thoughtfully by saying, “I don’t want to put down any other plumb-

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ing companies, but our best advertising comes from homeowners who have called us to come in to repair the work of other plumbers.” I thought for a moment about what a challenge that would be. A person would already be upset, probably suspicious and worried that they would be taken advantage of again, and of course, concerned about the cost of the repairs. If someone in that situation can go from being an “unhappy camper” to becoming a “raving fan” customer, that is proof that the plumber indeed “went the extra mile.”

Laurie told me later that she especially wanted people to know that now is the time for folks to let McGuire Plumbing get their pipes prepared for the cold weather ahead. We have already had some bitter cold weather, and while I know that Kevin and his guys are experienced in dealing with plenty of emergency

service calls, a little proactivity would go a long way toward making everyone’s holiday just that much less stressful!

If you are in need of a local crew with over 20 years experience in the Athens-Limestone area, and whose business has been built on hard work and honesty, then you need to give McGuire Plumbing a call at 256-233-0806.

McGuire Plumbing

Kevin McGuire, owner New construction, remodeling and all types service work Emergency service available Phone: 256-233-0806 mcguireenterprises@ yahoo.com Face book: mcguire plumbing Page 17

Learning As A Lifestyle

Online Learning

by Wanda Campbell

Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 Online learning is convenient, reasonably priced, and fun. Some people don’t want to take an online class because they are intimidated by the technology. Some people don’t want to take classes online because they are not motivated to stick with it. Some people just really prefer the interaction of an in-class course.

for students, teachers, and other professionals to access high quality educational courses to complete re-licensure, program certification, additional educational endorsements, or advanced degrees. These courses are offered each

ers. New course sessions begin each month. Most courses run for six weeks (with a ten-day grace period at the end). Courses are project-oriented and include lessons, quizzes, hands-on assignments, discussion areas, supplemen-

At the Center for Lifelong Learning we offer more than 300 online courses.

We have partnered with four companies that provide excellent opportunities for learning. Each company has its own time frame, its own selection of classes.

Virtual Education Software, Inc (VESi) specializes in teacher courses for continuing education and professional learning credit. Thousands of educators across the country have registered for and completed VESi courses to fulfill their continuing education needs. In an effort to meet the growing needs of students, teachers, and universities, VESi has begun partnering with institutions to develop asynchronous and blended certificate and degree programs. These programs will make it even easier

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fective web-based learning programs. Instructors/mentors are actively involved in your online learning experience, responding to any questions or concerns, as well as encouraging and motivating you to succeed.

These courses will prepare you to take national certificate exams or to be certified in topics. Visit the website at http://careertraining.ed2go.com/athens/ for more information.

Our final partner, UGotClass, (a division of Learning Resources,) makes online learning easy and fun.

These classes will boost your productivity and your organization’s bottom line.

semester. Visit the website at http://www.virtualeduc. com/athens/ for more information.

ED2GO offers instructorfacilitated online courses that are informative, fun, convenient, and highly interactive. Their instructors are famous for their ability to create warm and supportive communities of learn-

The online certificates are provided by expert instructors and students can participate day or night from any computer. Their focus is on business skills and social media. These courses run for one month unless you are taking a certificate course. You can visit the website at http:// www.yougotclass.org/catalog.cfm/Athens for more information.

When you are ready to take an online course, I hope you will visit our website at www.athens. edu/CLL for a long list of options. Learning happens everywhere now. See you there.

tary links, and more.

You can complete any of these courses entirely from your home or office and at any time of the day or night. Visit the website at http:// www.ed2go.com/cll/ for more information.

We have also partnered with the Career Training department of ED2GO to offer online open enrollment programs designed to provide the skills necessary to acquire professional level positions for many in-demand occupations. These programs are designed by a team of professionals from each respective field, providing you with ef-

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Dog Barker

A Letter To Doggie Claus

by Joel Allen

Dear Doggie Claus, This year has been memorable! I was a bad dog, but in a good way. Just because I escaped from my yard and prowled the neighborhood doesn’t mean I was the dog getting into the neighbor’s trash. Besides, my family needs to know that their security measures are not that good.

Better fences make great neighbors and the statement the cat gave the “Dog Cop” was completely fabricated.

He said he saw me tearing out the neighbor’s trash. But really, can he say it was truly me?

There is another dog in the neighborhood who looks just like me and he lives at 108 Fido Lane. You reading this

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“Copper?”

I really believe the family cat is getting old.

All his claims he makes against me about getting into the trash and chasing him makes me worry for him. So, just to show that my heart is in the right place, I ask that you bring my feline friend a pair of glasses so he can get his facts straight. Oh and some catnip would be nice too.

I have a confession to make. I have been backsliding very badly on my chewing habits.

Just the other day, Dad left his nice leather shoes down and I was passing by them when the memory of chewing a pair like them hit me. I found myself salivating so bad that before I could remem-

ber the “BAD Dog! No touchie!!” rule, I had them in my mouth running to another room.

They were tasty. Just like old smelly socks and leather, yummy.

My Dad was walking around looking for those shoes not long after and I played it so cool by laying there. I just stretched, yawned and gave him the look like, “What is wrong?”

He kept giving me the look of “You got my shoes and if I could prove it, ewwweeee, I would tan your hide!”

Well, he won’t find them because I buried them in the trash. Yes, I can dig in the trash and not get my paws dirty, can’t anyone? Can you bring him some new shoes to replace his old ones? They needed replacing anyway and it

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was just my way of doing him another favor.

About the “Pottie Patch” you brought me last year. Well, it worked great until I left a few poop mines and then my parents were like “What did you eat?” Or when they came home before they found the mess and said “What is that smell?” So, to alleviate my family coming home to that terrible smell and save face, could you bring me a dog door to be installed in my house? I really would like to come and go when I please.

Besides, the cat should be able to wander out when he wants to also.

Hehehe....

My year has been an awesome experience

again, Doggie Claus, and should there be anything I didn’t cover (like bones and food), could you please surprise me and bring me some? Thanks and Merry Christmas!

Love Sincerely, Everybody’s Favorite Canine Family Member “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

December 5 - December 18, 2014

Jerry’s Journal

On The Possum’s Trail With Jimmie “Two Hills” Part Three

by Jerry Barksdale

One day in 1974, Country Music legend George Jones called Jimmie Hills’ barber shop and made an appointment. “No Show” Jones didn’t show up. Nor did he show up for the next several appointments. “He walked in one day and asked me to cut his hair,” says Jimmie. “He gave me a hundred dollar bill and told me to keep the change. He would come by the shop two or three times a week just for me to shampoo and style his hair. We got to be friends and would go out and have lunch together.” It was the beginning of a 22 year journey for Jimmie, often rocky and challenging, but never dull.

One evening, George dropped

by Jimmie’s house and stayed several hours just to talk; said the Hills seemed like a good family. He asked 12-yearold Danny Hills to go to the car and get his shaving kit.

“George opened it and pulled out the biggest roll of money I’d ever seen,” said Jimmie.

He counted out three thousand dollars, offered it to Jimmie and said, “I want you to be my friend.”

“George, my friendship isn’t for sale. I don’t want your money. I’ll be your friend no matter what,” replied Jimmie.

“After that, we became really good friends. I heard later that’s how he tested people to see if they were honest.”

George was troubled, but always generous. “I was giving him a hair cut one day and a woman came in the shop and saw his expensive ring with a guitar surrounded by diamonds. She said she’d like to have a ring like that. George pulled it off his finger and gave it to her,” says Jimmie.

“I got the lady aside and told

her not to take it. She gave it back. George was generous and would give you the shirt off his back.”

George came by the barbershop on several occasions, intoxicated and passed out in the chair. Jimmie and Ann always took him home. This was after George and Tammy Wynette had divorced and he was dating Linda Welborn, Peanutt Montgomery’s sister-in-law.

Jimmie was driving George home when the latter wanted to stop at a small cemetery. “If there is a God, those people wouldn’t be in those graves,” George said.

Jimmie rolled down the window and let in fresh air. A bee flew inside the car and stung George on the neck. “He got down on the floor and started praying. I laughed at ‘em. “Why are you laughing at me?” George asked.

“Because you’re crazy.” That proved to be phrophetic.

George would frequently appear unannounced at the barber shop or at the Hills’ home and request Jimmie to drive him around and listen to him talk. He and Linda Welborn were having problems. One night, Jimmie was driving him in his Lincoln Town Car down the Natchez Trace, while George drank Jack Daniels from the bottle, tooted cocaine and talked about Linda.

A herd of deer walked onto the road and paused. immie stopped the car. “Jimmie if you going to hunt deer get yo’self a shotgun,” said George. “Listen to me when I’m talking to you.”

His behavior became more bizarre as time passed.

“That was one of numerous trips down the Trace. I bet I’ve driven a million miles up and down the Trace listening to my friend, George,” says Jimmie.

On another occasion, George stopped at the barber shop near

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closing time and asked Jimmie to buy him supper. Jimmie told him that Ann was cooking and would set out an extra plate as she had done on many occasions. George wanted to go to Bonanza Steakhouse. On the way there, George said someone had robbed him of $25,000.

While crossing the Tennessee River bridge, George reached under the seat of the Lincoln, pulled out a pistol and put it to Jimmie’s head. “I’m going to kill the SOB,” said George. “I didn’t take your money,” Jimmie said and pushed the pistol away with his hand.

“Oh, I know you didn’t get it my son,” said George. “I would have given it to you because I love you like a brother.”

go to sleep, Jimmie stopped at an Omelette Shop in Muscle Shoals. A song writer, his wife and George’s girlfriend, Linda Welborn pulled up simultaneously and they all went inside and sat in the same booth.

“You remember being over at my house one night?” said George to the songwriter. “I seen you in the hallway. You got some money outta Linda’s purse.” George yanked out his pistol, stuck it between the man’s eyes and started pulling back the hammer. Jimmie grabbed George’s hand, punched him hard in the ribs and wrestled him down. Customers scattered like quail on the rise. One man jumped over the counter. The songwriter and

Sirens were wailing and growing louder. Jimmie peeled rubber and made a getaway. “We drove around until 2 a.m.,” says Jimmie. “I expected the cops to be waiting for us but they weren’t. The police were real good to George and helped him all they could.” Jimmie put George to bed. The next evening, George came to the shop. “He didn’t remember anything,” says Jimmie.

George seemed to have a Guardian Angel. Maybe he was just lucky, but most likely it was his fans who looked out for him. George was late for a flight from Huntsville to Nashville and didn’t have time to park his new Lincoln. So he parked his new Lincoln on the sidewalk at the front door.

He called Jimmie . “I’ve left my car at Huntsville Airport.

Can you go up there and get it?” “I guess. Why?” asked Jimmie. “I left it by the door and I’m afraid they’ll tow it off,” said George. Jimmie and Ann knew they would need a key so they called the dealership, explained what happened, picked up a new key and headed to Huntsville Airport.

Country music legend George Jones, (l) and “Jimmie Two Hills” George said he had been asleep on a couch at a car lot and the owner had taken his money out of his pocket. “I know where the SOB lives and you’re gonna help me kill’em,” said George.

“Not me George!”

Jimmie tried to convince him to go home, but George was insistent. Finally, thinking that food might cause George to

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company made a fast getaway.

The manager called the cops.

“George, let’s get outta here!” exclaimed Jimmie. “They done called the law.” Jimmie pulled George out of the restaurant, put him in the Lincoln, and slammed the door on his ankle.

“You broke my ankle! Oh God, you broke it,” George hollered.

“The car was parked in the front door – I mean up on the sidewalk, engine still running,” says Jimmie. “A note was on the dashboard. ‘Please to whom it may concern, I was in quite a hurry, this flight was very important. My name is George Jones with the Grand Ole Opry and I’ll be back tomorrow evening.’ It had probably been there four hours.

Nobody touched it,” says Jimmie. He pushed aside the empty Beenie Weenie cans, pork rinds and cheese balls on the seat and drove it home.

The note is framed and now hangs in Jimmie’s den.

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Medical Update

Five Simple Solutions To SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder)

By Rachel Clark, RN, BSN It’s winter again, and the days are getting shorter.

The skies seem cloudier, the air colder, and the wind has a bite to it that isn’t there in Spring and Summer. With the change of the seasons can come a change in mood for some people.

This is known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. According to the Mayo Clinic, SAD is a type of depression related to the change in seasons that begins and ends around the same time every year. For most, that happens in the winter.

How do you know if you’re “SAD?” Some common signs and symptoms include irritability, feeling tired or having less energy, issues getting along with others, hypersensitivity to rejection (real or perceived), oversleeping, heavy feeling in arms or legs, appetite changes (especially increased cravings for high-carbohydrate foods), and weight gain. As SAD as this all sounds, there are some simple, natural ways to combat this change in moods. So if you’re ready to get back to your usual self, and

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leave the grumpy, irritable you that comes in the winter behind, below are five simple ways to get started.

1. Scents can be used as a “pick-me-up.” Most people have scents that they personally associate with positivity and comfort. For some, that is the mingled scents of baking sugar cookies, with warm vanilla and sugar wafting through the house. For others it might be roses, cinnamon, or oranges. Diffusing essential oils can be a great way to help lift your mood, without side effects connected to anti-depressants and other chemical alternatives. A “recipe” of sorts that I can’t wait to try is as follows: 20 drops Sweet Orange oil, 20 drops Clove Bud oil, and 20 drops Cinnamon oil. Check out Pinterest or other social media sites for additional information on essential oils and blends that can help lift your mood this winter.

2. Let the sunshine in!

The lack of available sunlight is a key factor in SAD. Open up your curtains, blinds, and doors on sunny days. Letting

in the sun can lift your mood exponentially. Sit next to those open windows to maximize your sunlight absorption. You can also use phototherapy to help. This involves using lights that mimic natural sunlight. You can also surround your-

time to talk with your significant other, best friend, or someone else you care about. Consider an alarm clock that uses natural sounds and/or light to wake you rather than your usual methods.

And enjoy the peace and quiet, get away from the

mood is concerned.

self with imagery that is bright and sunny when the days are cloudy and dull. Set your screensaver on your phone or computer to something warm, inviting, and bright. This can also help elevate your mood.

noise and chaos that is everyday life.

and comfortable can go a long way. Also, the same characteristics in bedding can be helpful.

Get affirming touches such as hugs, cuddling, and other gentle affections from your spouse, significant other, or even your pets. You may also wish to consider getting regular massages from a licensed massage therapist.

3. Start listening! Music and mood have been linked for quite some time. Choose music that is uplifting rather than dark and moody. Christmas carols or summer themed choices are generally best for combating the blues. Who can be sad when the beat is happy? Also, schedule

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4. Taste the joy! Many people gain weight when battling SAD. Choose foods that remind you of summer. Mix blueberries, chocolate, and nuts into trail mix and snack on it. Choose hot tea rather than coffee when you need to warm up on cold afternoons. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables as often as you can.

When you can’t choose frozen options. Put them in salads, smoothies, or as dessert itself. You’ll be amazed at the difference it can make as far as your

5. Be sensitive to TOUCH! Touch is one of the first senses to develop inside the womb, so it only makes sense that it can be a huge anti-depressant for some people. Clothing that is soft, breathable

Don’t be SAD this winter. Take some of the tips above and change the pattern that may have been going on for years.

You’ll be glad you did.

December 5 - December 18, 2014

Security Savvy

Safe Driving

by Brian Black, Operations Manager of Madison Security Group 203 Us Highway 31 S, Athens, AL 35611

Driving is a privilege, not a right. That being said, there are lot of people who practice this privilege. Some of us have been driving longer than we were in school, longer than we’ve been married, some longer than there have been traffic lights, and some are just starting to learn to drive.

I’m not big on special restrictions for drivers, but I do think NASCAR has the right idea: put a yellow stripe on the back of cars to indicate that the driver is inexperienced and should be treated with caution.

I will not jump into the debates about speed limits, seat belts, or helmets for bikers. These are laws that should be followed until they are repealed. I do want to talk about a couple of simple, yet overlooked issues that we as drivers face every day.

later or earlier in order to adjust. Also, make sure that there is plenty of braking room between you and the car in front of you and start braking earlier when coming up to stop signs, traffic lights, and ALL intersections.

When driving on ice, don’t unless you have had lots of experience.

Even if you are experienced, proceed with caution. If you are reading this article, chances are you live in the South and know we don’t get a whole lot of ice, and you have seen what happens when we do. If you are one of our cousins from the North, trust me you’re not much better driving on ice than we Southerners are so stay off the roads. Please.

But, bless their hearts, they won’t listen.

Parking Areas: What? Parking Areas?

That’s not driving! I know, but this is an area where the little things cause problems.

First, let me rant for a moment. If you are not handicapped, please don’t park in these spaces! I will take it a step further: the only people that should park in handicap areas are people who are truly handicapped or those who are transporting them. Just because you have a handicap placard does not mean you should use it.

so people parked next to you can get into and/or out of their vehicle without hitting your car with their door. You also need to be able to get into and out of your car without hitting the car next to you with your doors.

Another overlooked issue is walking in the parking area. When you are walking from the store to your car, be mindful of cars trying to back out a parking space. Many fast food restaurants

have parking areas in the same areas as their drivethru windows and have entrances/exits in these areas as well. Be mindful that even though you have the right of way, the drivers leaving the drivethru may be distracted and not see you. Children are the most vulnerable in parking areas, so let’s keep them safe.

As with all things in security, your best defense is to be aware of your surroundings.

Now, on to parking.

Please make sure your vehicle is fully in the parking space with enough space around you

Road Conditions: This is one of the biggest reasons for accidents that drivers encounter. Let’s be honest, it’s not the road conditions that cause the problems; it is our lack of adapting to these road conditions that causes accidents.

When it is raining, snowing, icy or foggy, SLOW DOWN! If you have during these ditions, plan better. Plan

to travel bad conyour trip to arrive

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