February 19, 2016

February 19 - March 3, 2016

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

See Our Listings Inside this edition...

Pages 25 - 32

Special Feature Re-Elect Ben Harrison As Limestone County Commissioner, District 4...

In 2012, when I interviewed Ben Harrison during his successful campaign for the Limestone County District 4 Commissioner, I was intrigued by his... Page 5

Special Exhibit

The Gathering: A Place Of Grace Where You are Loved, Accepted, And Forgiven

By Ali Elizabeth Turner Recently I was contacted by the ministerial team of a fellowship known as The Gathering, and asked to tell their story.

Having the opportunity to fellowship with other believers and learning what Continued on page 15

Athens To Host Exhibit On Judge Horton And Scottsboro Boys...

When the family of Judge James Horton handed Limestone County Archivist Rebekah Davis family treasures for an upcoming exhibit, Davis was not expecting...

Page 7

Eddie Alley For District Judge: Experience, Fairness, And Values

Special Feature Matthew Huggins For District Court Judge, Place 2...

Matthew Huggins will firmly tell you that he “appreciates having grown up in this community.� As we chatted, he told me what it was like...

Page 9

February 19 - March 3, 2016

By Ali Elizabeth Turner When considering a judicial candidate, experience matters. Eddie Alley brings a host of experience, both legal and life experience to his campaign effort. He was born to young parents, and as is the case with so many in Lime-

Continued on pages 17

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February 19 - March 3, 2016

Publisher’s Point

The Miracle Of “Mega-shift”

Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Delivery

Hunter Williams

Contributing Writers Janet Hunt Lynne Hart Wanda Campbell Paul Foreman Shelley Underhill Rachel Clark, RN BSN Holly Hollman Jackie Warner Sandra Thompson Deb Kitchenmaster Wayne Kuykendall

Want some really good news? Want to know what is going on outside our country that should make you shout, (that is, if you are a believer in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob)? It is, that according to a book written by James Rutz, the fastest growing religion on the planet is NOT Islam in any form, radical or otherwise.

No, every 25 minutes, there are approximately 175,000 new Christians who become what we in

ber of theories. One is that we have killed over 50 million of our pre-born citizens, and God does not take kindly to the shedding of innocent blood.

We have become so dependent upon technology that we have nearly pushed God out of health and medicine, and we are perishing. Another is that we have gotten too fancy for our pants, and have told God what He does and does not do in our day. To try and assert that

life on Earth is going through a major change," he writes. "We are seeing a megashift in the basic direction of human history. Until our time, the ancient war between good and evil was hardly better than a stalemate.

Now all has changed. The Creator whose epic story flows through the pages of Scripture has begun to dissolve the strongholds of evil. This new drama is being played out every hour around the globe, ac-

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 6

What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 19

the South typically refer to as “born again.” However, it doesn’t stop there.

These are people who are quite used to miracles, the kind you have read about all your life. The “problem,” if there is one, is that this phenomenon comparatively speaking is not happening on our soil, and we are going to have to, at some point, ask why that is the case.

Horse Whispering . . . . . . 20

Personally, I have a num-

Special Exhibit . . . . . . . . 7 View From The Bridge . . . 8 Special Feature . . . . . . . . 9 From The Vets' Museum . . . 10 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Shelley . . . . . 13 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 14 Cover Stories . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . 18

Fitness, Fiscally Speaking . . 21 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Foreman's Forum . . . . . . . . 23

February 19 - March 3, 2016

miracles are not for today is just plain folly, but I am not here to make anyone unhappy, or get into a theological throw-down; I am here to celebrate. I hope you will join me.

According to Rutz, who has gone to great lengths to document that which he asserts, here is what is occurring all over the world. "Very few people realize the nature of

companied sometimes by mind-bending miracles."

I am forever grateful that I was never taught that miracles are not for today. I have seen them, and I have experienced them. I am grateful that I have lived on the foreign mission field, where they were nearly commonplace. I experienced them in Iraq, and in Africa, and you are not going to be

very successful in getting me to re-interpret what I have known to be true for the last 45 years.

Rutz says further: "There will be pockets of resistance and unforeseen breakthroughs. Still, at the rate we are growing now, to be comically precise, there would be more Christians than people by the autumn of 2032, about 8.2 billion."

More Christians than people? What a divine comedy, indeed! Rutz continued, "The growing core of Christianity crosses theological lines and includes 707 million born-again people who are increasing by 8 percent a year.” These are people who can only be described as being those “of whom the world is not worthy.” For now, they are largely underground in China, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. But make no mistake, if Rutz is right, we will live to see these things happen in our lifetime, and I for one am going to be one glad girl.

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

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All Things Soldier

The SAS vs. ISIS

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

We are in a global war against jihad, and we are not alone in that battle.

When I was in Iraq, I had several favorites as far as nations in the fight with us, rotating units that were unashamed members of the Coalition. They were focused, they were purposed, and they were not about to back down.

Among them were the Ugandans, the Aussies, and the Brits. This edition of Soldier is going to talk about two particularly powerful operations that were recently executed with precision by members of the SAS, or the British Special Air Service.

By way of background, the SAS was formed during WWII, and reorganized in 1950. Their duties include, but are not confined to, counter-terrorism, “direct action,” covert reconnaissance, and human in-

telligence gathering.

Some of this is not going to be pretty to talk about, but then, neither is jihad.

The subject of the first discussion is the death of a jihadist who was in the middle of teaching other jihadists the ins and outs of efficiently beheading people. As he was making his point re: “making the final cut,” let’s just say that the SAS sniper’s bullet found its mark, and in that moment the instructor became the embodiment of that which he was methodically teaching.

His students scattered, some with gratitude back to their families. Again, what was discovered in Iraq was that terrorists would terrorize whole families, and force the men of the families to do all manner of evil or face the murder of their own families. The Nazis did the same. This “teacher” was

known for his ruthlessness and brutality, feared even by jihadists, and while no one knows the percentages of “true believers” as opposed to those who were made to join ISIS on pain of death of their loved ones, this operation was inarguably success-

Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)

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11am - 1pm and 5pm-7pm

17915 W Elm St • Athens, Alabama • 256-232-0029 Page 4

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ful. Lives were saved, and it took 3 teams comprised of 4 members each to successfully complete this mission.

The second SAS operation went off without a hitch with assistance from our own Air Force. This time, the SAS disguised themselves as women in burqas and raided an ISIS bunker, killing a Syrian ISIS leader.

This operation involved a squad of 8, and it is said that the targets were utterly flummoxed when the “women” shed their burqas and opened fire.

The USAF released a Hellfire missile via a drone, and provided the safe extraction of all 8 SAS members.

An anonymous source told Britain’s Daily Star that “Gunmen were on the streets stopping everyone, lining people up against the walls and threatening to kill anyone who had ‘helped the spies.’” Sources also told the Daily Star that the kinds of missions

that are described here were going to be increasing in frequency. The reason?

Their current HVT (High Value Target) is a man by the name of Siddartha Dhar, who is also known as Abu Rumaysah. He has the nickname of being the new “Jihadi John,” after the other home-grown terrorist, ISIS propagandist Mohammed Emwazi was struck and killed by a drone last November.

Siddartha had the gall to tweet the following after he left London in September 2014. He was released on bail after being cited for “encouraging terrorism.” He said, “What a shoddy security system Britain must have to allow me to breeze through Europe to [ISIS].”

That may be, and hopefully both the UK and the US are learning from their mistakes. Even more, my hope is that they will continue to work together well to keep us safe, even if it has to get worse before it gets better.

February 19 - March 3, 2016

Special Feature

Re-Elect Ben Harrison As Limestone County Commissioner, District 4

by Ali Elizabeth Turner In 2012, when I interviewed Ben Harrison during his successful campaign for the Limestone County District 4 Commissioner, I was intrigued by his blend of career experience in corporate America, as well as that of a small businessman.

Ben grew up on his family's farm in rural West Limestone County. He is married to Beth McGuire Harrison, and together they have 4 children, Erin, Caleb, Olivia The Harrison Family and Emily. Erin is married to L-R: Ben, Olivia, Emily and Beth Greg Burton, and they have one son, Fionn. Caleb and Angela are expecting their car. School buses and con- to look for alternatives that first daughter this summer. struction equipment could not would be safe, and also save Family and traditional values legally cross the bridge, and money. He found a solution by have always been important were forced to detour around changing designs and utilizing to Ben, and that is one reason to another road. The whole round culverts instead of a why he's so concerned about situation was a hardship on traditional box bridge design. the direction our country is local citizens, and was cost- The upgrade cost only $32K, headed. “It really makes me ing them time and money. Ben and saved us (the taxpayers) a sad when I think about the looked into getting the Grigs- whopping 218 thousand dolGovernment debt and bur- by Ferry Bridge upgraded, but lars. dens we are leaving for fu- was told the only option was a Ben says his desire is to always ture generations,” he said. new bridge at a cost of $250K. be a wise steward of taxpayFighting for our community That seemed exorbitant and ers’ money, and be attentive to and children's future is one unnecessary, so Ben started the needs of the community. of the main reasons he got involved in politics, and Grigsby Ferry Road project was a deciding factor in his during the construction phase. decision to run for political office. “I'm not a politician and sometimes that gets me in trouble, but I am going to stand for what I believe in and not back down just because it's politically correct,” he stated with conviction.

Ben's conservative world view and his experience in the business world make him an excellent watchman over county spending. He knows how to spot and eliminate wasteful expenditures without curtailing services. A recent example was a bridge project in West Limestone County. Grigsby Ferry Road had a one lane bridge which was old and unable to accommodate the weight of much more than a passenger

February 19 - March 3, 2016

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He feels it's been an honor to serve as County Commissioner, and enjoys working with the people of District 4. Ben believes we live in a blessed area, and he says he wants to “keep it that way.”

As County Commissioner, Ben's biggest concerns are centered around road maintenance and improvement, i.e. improving the quality and safety of our roads while reducing costs. His priority is to do the job right, taking care of the base and drainage before he resurfaces current roads.

He is investigating a different way to chip seal roads that will result in a smoother and longer lasting surface. During his first term, Ben has been a strong supporter of eliminating unnecessary government projects and diverting that revenue to our road system. With District 4 getting less money Grigsby Ferry Road finished project.

per road mile compared to the other districts, these issues are especially important to him. If re-elected, he will continue to be an advocate for better roads, not only in District 4, but throughout Limestone County.

Transparency is also something that is important to citizens of our county as well as those of our nation as a whole. Ben has been talking about government transparency since he took office 3 years ago, and if it were up to him, he would post the county books online for easy review by citizens. By that, Ben means, “every transaction, who wrote what check, and from what account.”

Baldwin County already does it and Ben believes it would be a good move for us. He would also like to have Limestone County Commission’s work sessions recorded. “We currently record our regular meetings, but adding the work sessions would give people an added level of background as to what we are voting on during those meetings.”

While many think of County Commissioners as being only “the road guys,” Ben says with a passion, “Our job is also to protect the liberties and freedoms of citizens,” and that means public safety as well as their pocket books.

He has been a consistent supporter of private property rights, and opposing tax increases on the hard working people of Limestone County.

He has fought hard for fiscal responsibility, and is proud to have helped get District 4 out of debt during his first term.

If this is what you are looking for in a Limestone County Commissioner, then Ben Harrison would appreciate your voting to return him to his “watch” over District 4.

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Calendar of Events Intercultural Seminar with Dr. Culture Feb 22nd and 23rd

Sandridge Student Center Ballroom. Athens State University.

300 North Beaty Street, Athens, AL. This event is free and open to the public. Three separate aspects will be covered in the Cultural Competency seminars by Dr. Thomas Connell - "Dr. Culture": General Overview "Six Simple Steps to Cultural Competency" February 22nd and 23rd at 9:00AM-11:00AM; Cultural Competency for First Responders on February 22 at 1:00PM-3:00PM; and Cultural Competency for Teachers and Educational Professionals on Feb 22nd at 6:00PM-8:00PM. For more information: Terry Stepp 256-233-8241.

Hospice of Limestone County Chili Challenge and Silent Auction Feb 20th

Athens High School. 100 U.S. Highway 31N, Athens, AL. Sample over 30 local organization and individual's chilis and choose the Chili Challenge People's Choice winner, enjoy live music and bid on hundreds of silent auction items. $10.00 Admission; 10 and under FREE. For more information: 256-232-5017.

Ice Bowl Disc Golf Tourney Feb 20th

Disc Golf Course. Athens SportsPlex, U.S. Highway 31, Athens, AL. Join the Young Alumni Advisory Council of Athens State University at 9:00AM. All proceeds will be donated to Limestone County Churches Involved (LCCI), a local food pantry feeding the hungry families of Limestone County. The motto of the Ice Bowl is "no wimps, no whiners" and the tournament can only be cancelled under extreme weather conditions. The entry fee is $25.00 per person and individuals or businesses can sponser a hole for $20.00. Sponsors will receive a custom stamped disc with this year's Ice Bowl logo. For pre-registration and additional information visit athens.edu/alumni or contact the office of Alumni Affairs at Alumni@Athens.edu or 256-2338185.

Youth Ministry Global Youth Camp Fundraiser Feb 28th

West Highland Baptist Church. 1013 5th Avenue, Athens, AL. Join the West Highland Baptist congregation in raising money for their youth group to attend the Global Youth Camp in Blue Ridge, North Carolina. Southern Cross from Priceville, AL will perform starting at 5:00PM, a love offering for their talent and time will be taken. All are welcome to come and the event is free. Any and all donations will go to the youth trip. For more information: WHBC Office 256-232-3397 or Wesley Stover 256-654-7584.

Poke Sallet Follies Mar 11th, 12th & 13th

Athens Senior Center. 912 West Pryor Street, Athens, AL. Join the Prime Time Players as the Council on Aging presents its highly-anticipated fundraiser of the year. All seating is reserved and requires advanced purchase. Show times are March 11th at 7:00PM; March 12th at 7:00PM; and March 13th at 2:00PM. Tickets are $35.00 includes meal and 2 hour show. Limited to 2 full tables. For ticket or more information: http://www. pokesalletfollies.org.

Athens Home and Garden Show Mar 11th & 12th

Limestone County Event Center on 114 West Pryor Street in Athens, AL. Presented by the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce from 5:00PM-8:00PM on March 11th and 8:00AM4:00PM on March 12th. If you are looking for a unique item for your home or garden or maybe garden tips this event is for you.

Activities for the kids to make and take too. For more information: 256-232-2600.

Ardmore Shamrock Shuffle 10K/5K Mar 12th

Athens State Community Chorus and Decatur Civic Chorus Concert Feb 25th & 26th

St. Andrews Presbyterian Church. 3310 Danville Road Decatur, AL. It's the "Sounds of the Sixties" featuring your favorite songs performed by the Athens State Community Chorus and Decatur Civic Chorus at 5:30PM. Tickets are $25.00. For more information: 256-233-8262.

Ardmore Station Open House Feb 27th

Ronny and Joni Cornelius for an Open House and sneak peak in the newly renovated event venue. People who remember the original businesses and their owners are encouraged to shaire their tales, photos and memoribilia during the event from 3:00PM-7:00PM.

First Baptist Chruch. 26670 Fifth Street, Ardmore, AL. Lace up your running shoes and get ready for the Shamrock Shuffle starting at 9:00AM. The Ardmore Shamrock Shuffle consists of a 10K race running concurrently with a 5K race. Both courses are certified and begin and end together. The 10K course is primarily flat with occasional inclines and is an out and back course. The 5K course winds through residential Ardmore and is also fairly flat.

Our races are chip-timed by Tennessee Race Timing. This year's entry fee will benefit the Ardmore Fire Department. Register at www.ardmoreshamrockshuffle.com/race-information.html

Ardmore Station. 30490 Ardmore Avenue, Ardmore, AL. Join Page 6

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February 19 - March 3, 2016

Special Feature

Athens To Host Exhibit On Judge Horton And Scottsboro Boys Exhibit includes family treasures stored in lard bucket

by Holly Hollman When the family of Judge James Horton handed Limestone County Archivist Rebekah Davis family treasures for an upcoming exhibit, Davis was not expecting one of those items to be a lard bucket full of letters.

ment to set aside the jury’s guilty verdict in the re-trial. Despite medical testimony indicating there were no rapes and one woman recanting her story, the jury found Patterson guilty.

“After the re-trial ended in Decatur, it was in his hometown of Athens on June 22, 1933, that Judge Horton set aside the jury verdict,” said Judge Horton Monument Committee member Limestone County Circuit Court Judge Jimmy Woodroof.

Kathy Horton Garett, Horton’s granddaughter, and Katherine Horton, the judge’s daughter-inlaw, are loaning items for an exhibit call “Outside the Protective Circle of Humanity” that will open with a kickoff event on Feb. 18 at Athens-Limestone Public Library.

Davis said the letters in the lard bucket were sent to Horton during the 1930s re-trial of one of the Scottsboro Boys defendants. The Scottsboro Boys case involved nine black men accused of raping two white women in 1931 on a train traveling from Tennessee into Alabama. Eight of the nine men were sentenced in Scottsboro to death despite a lack of evidence.

The U.S. Supreme Court granted an appeal for new trials in Decatur, where Horton, of Athens, presided over defendant Haywood Patterson’s trial.

In 1933, Horton lost his race for re-election, which is attributed to his decision to set aside the verdict.

Other family items include doorknobs from the old Morgan County Courthouse where the

“What a great story in itself that these priceless documents, these letters, have been carefully preserved in a lard bucket all this time,” Davis said.

“There’s even a letter he received from Denmark.”

County archives. The exhibit, including the lard bucket and letters, will be available to the public from Feb. 18 to March 1 in the library on Jefferson Street. It will open Feb. 18 at 6 p.m. with guest speakers, including Limestone County Bar Association President Mark Maclin, who will discuss Horton and his pivotal role in the case.

Maclin will also provide information about a local effort to raise funds to erect a bronze statue honoring Horton at the Limestone County Courthouse.

The exhibit is a partnership with the Limestone County and Morgan

The exhibit will feature the fountain pen Horton used to sign the judge-

February 19 - March 3, 2016

trials took place. Morgan County Archives is loaning images from the estate of Fred Hiroshige, one of six photographers allowed in the courtroom for Patterson’s trial. In 1998, the Morgan County Commission acquired the 127 negatives Hiroshige had saved. They are now a part of the permanent collection of the Morgan County Archives. The exhibit includes 32 of those photos, along with narrative panels that help share the story.

The exhibit will close on Tuesday, March 1, as Laura Anderson, Archivist of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, will present “Mother’s Day 1961: The Freedom Rides of Alabama” for the “Booked for Lunch” event at noon.

How to support the Judge Horton Monument Project

The monument project is being overseen by the Judge Horton Monument Committee comprised of local attorneys and community members. The Limestone County Bar Association started efforts and received support from the Limestone County Commission and Limestone Area Community Foundation.

To support the project, mail a tax-deductible donation to LACF-Horton Fund, P.O. Box 578, Athens, AL 35612. To learn more, go online at www. hortonmonument.com or on Facebook at James Judge Horton Monument Project.

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The View From The Bridge

The Intake Challenge

by Jackie Warner Jackie Warner

Community Outreach “Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters

A few weeks ago, my daughter challenged me to a “No Bread” diet.

She was preparing for a big event, and wanted to shed a few pounds, so having no bread was going to be her way to lose the weight. Doubting that I would do it, she asked me anyway.

I, of course, (actually doubting myself,) surprisingly said I was up for the challenge. Four days went by and guess what: I was doing well and surviving without any bread! For me, bread is an essential part of my day but those four days, I felt so good being successful with the challenge.

The fifth day presented itself, and I heard my daughter saying that we could have a cheat day.

Well it didn’t take much for me to agree! I had been so good for four whole days, and now I was ready for a cheat day. Poor me, thinking I had starved myself, and then in that short instance all my will power went out the window.

Can you believe that?

Sadly, of course, I know

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2016 “to have the best body ever.” I too want to work toward that goal, and it starts with doing what is realistic and not losing yourself to a moment of weakness.

Read the tips below to gain a boost on your journey to your best body ever.

•Plan your healthy meals ahead, and prepare your food for the entire week, even though it is “easier” to grab and go •Keep a food log to track what you are eating and how you feel.

Try the “My Fitness Pal” tracker tool.

•Eat 5-6 times a day, but smaller portions. This will cause your body to burn more calories throughout the day.

you can.

Success wasn’t living here; bread was just on a short vacation, and was making its way back.

Yes, I caved in and had some bread. Feeling guilty, I only had one piece on my chicken sandwich.

Overall, it didn’t seem that bad.

The next day, I could feel it. My indigestion was back, and it was as if my body was rejecting that one piece of bread.

•Drink a minimum of 1 gallon of water each day.

•Enlist a “challenge buddy.” If you have that urge to cheat or quit, then you have someone to keep you accountable and makes you think twice about your decision.

As I share this personal story, I have learned that although we may love the taste of various foods, they are not always needed, nor are they good for us. After having the indigestion, I vowed to give the no bread diet another try.

After all, it made me feel better, and I didn’t realize how much better until I decided to be counterproductive.

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Sad, but so. We start and stop these yo-yo diets all the time, and in some strange way wonder why we are not successful.

For many, counterproductive activity is common place when working on weight loss goals, making it extremely difficult to see lasting results.

I am reminded of Oprah Winfrey’s phrase for

•Go to bed early, and get 8 hours of sleep each night.

Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional Jackie Warner, Community Outreach Specialist Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com Check out upcoming events: http://thebridge-us.yolasite. com/

February 19 - March 3, 2016

Special Feature

Matthew Huggins For District Court Judge, Place 2

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Matthew Huggins will firmly tell you that he “appreciates having grown up in this community.” As we chatted, he told me what it was like growing up here He went to both public and private school, having graduated from Athens Bible School before attending Auburn University. He majored in history, and graduated with honors. He particularly loves Civil War history, and we talked at length about the Scottsboro Boys case, which is also the topic of Holly Hollman’s article on page seven.

Matthew said that he has always felt a calling to law in general, and specifically as a prosecutor. “I saw it as a position where I would be able to influence people’s lives,” he told me. Several things served to “seal the deal” as far as pursuing a law career is concerned, not the least of which was having the opportunity to spend a summer clerking for soon-to-retire Limestone County Circuit Judge Jimmy Woodroof. Other mentors included former Alabama State Supreme Court Justice

Patti Smith, former Alabama State Senator Tom Butler, and Judge Jerry Batts. Matthew received his law degree from Faulkner University, and then came back home to officially begin his career by working in the District Attorney’s office.

as hundreds of felony cases.

However, his “baby” is Drug Court, which, incidentally, has been strongly supported by all of the judges, as well as those who are running for the various judicial positions. He is the Supervisor of District Court prosecutions, and estimates that “80-85% of all my cases are drug related.”

When Judge Batts announced his retirement, Matthew went to his family as well as to prayer regarding making the decision to run for the District judicial position. His parents, Mike and Jackie Huggins, and his parents-in-law, Grant and Mitzi Gilbert, along with his wife, Holly, have all encouraged him to run. Holly, an art teacher, gave birth to their first child, Ford, in October of 2015.

I asked him, “What do you say to people who think you are too young for this position?” He answered by telling me about his grandfather, Jack Riley. He showed me a picture of Jack in a courtroom trying a murder trial in the late 1950s.

“Big Jim Folsom appointed my grandfather at age 29 as the circuit solicitor, a position

The Huggins Family Holly, Matthew, and Ford

later renamed district attorney, and then he became Circuit Judge in Cullman County,” he said, and added, “He was one of my heroes. Another of my heroes is my other grandfather, Horace Huggins, who was a gospel preacher.” He then added, “I don’t think it is necessarily the quantity

of cases that I have tried, as much as the quality.”

He went on to say that he has been “pleased to be in the DA’s office, and getting continual experience, and the best experience.”

During his career, Matthew has handled thousands of misdemeanor cases, as well

“It is so rewarding to see people turn their lives around,” he said. (And, I might add, it is gratifying as a resident of Limestone County to know that our judiciary is not in any way opposed to faith based recovery and rehab programs, unlike districts in other states.)

He also said, “What makes me happy and truly satisfied is to know that when I go to sleep at night, I have made a difference.”

By way of professional associations, Matthew is a member of the Limestone County Cattlemen’s Association, the Fraternal Order of Police, and is a board member of the Little Light of Mine Foundation, a local non-profit organization. He also is a member in good standing with the Alabama Bar Association and the Limestone County Bar Association. He and Holly worship with the Oakland Church of Christ.

“I strive for justice, to be fair and impartial,” he told me.

Then he added, “I want to be just in every case.” If you believe his values, experience and conservatism would best serve us as District Judge in Place 2, then cast your vote for Matthew Huggins on March 1st

February 19 - March 3, 2016

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Page 9

From the Alabama Veterans’ Museum

Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans!

by Sandra Thompson, Director, Alabama Veterans’ Museum

We must never forget the horrific dishonor that many of our veteran brothers and sisters faced upon their return from Vietnam. Stories of being snubbed, called names, and even spat upon are unfathomable to a society that today reveres its soldiers returning from war.

It wasn’t until the late seventies that something was done to prioritize the issues our Vietnam-era veterans and their families faced.

In 1978, a small group of Vietnam veteran activists went to Washington in search of allies to support the creation of an advocacy organization devoted exclusively to the needs of the Vietnam veterans.

Initially known as the Council of Vietnam Veterans, the members felt if they brought attention to the plight of the Vietnam veteran that a grateful nation would take steps to

remedy them. Sadly, they failed to win even a single legislative victory.

Thankfully this group did not give up. They soon came to realize that political strength would be measured in numbers, and numbers translated to membership. By 1979, the Council of Vietnam veterans was transformed into Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), an organization that today is 75,000 members strong, with more than 650 chapters throughout the U.S., Puerto Rico, the Virgin Island, Guam and the Philippines. Their founding principle is "Never again will one generation of veterans abandon another."

VVA's goals are to promote and support the full range of issues important to Vietnam veterans, to create a new identity for this generation of veterans, and to change public perception of Vietnam vet-

nizations, church groups, community events, and craft/trade shows. The Vietnam Veterans building is located at 17915 W. Elm St., Athens, AL 35612. For more information on membership, building rental or general information about the Vietnam Veterans of America, please call 256431-3213.

I am reminded daily of the need to educate our future generations by a short story I keep in a frame in my office. When my son was in 4th grade, he was given an assignment to write a piece called “My American Hero.” I was surprised and proud when erans.

Athens Chapter 511 is 188 members strong and is named in honor of PFC Gary Elmore, the first Limestone County soldier to be killed in action in Vietnam in 1965. PFC Elmore served with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade. He attended Tanner High School.

In addition to upholding the principles of the national organization, Chapter 511 supports the local community in many ways.

One of these programs is a scholarship program awarded to local high school students. You can help support this scholarship program by joining them for lunch or dinner.

On the third Monday of each month, Chapter 511 and Associates holds an all-you-can-eat spaghetti meal for just $7.00. Lunch is served from 11am-1pm, and dinner runs from 5pm-

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7pm. Proceeds go to support the scholarship fund.

Chapter 511 president, Ron Webster, invites potential new members to come to their meeting and see what they are doing for our community. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of the month, with dinner starting at 6pm and the actual meeting beginning at 7pm. At this time, a lifetime membership is only $100.00, a single year membership is $20.00, and 3 years is $50.00.

Their building is also available for rent. It is a great place for civic orga-

he decided to write about a Vietnam veteran we had recently met. This is his short essay: “My hero is Terry Lane.

He fought in Vietnam.

His life was horrible when he came back from ‘Nam. The reason was the news anchor lied and his comrades were hated

by Americans because of that news anchor. He is really not messed up, but he can tell a good story, but when he tells about his fallen friend it is sad.”

As they say, out of the mouths of babes…

February 19 - March 3, 2016

February 19 - March 3, 2016

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Page 11

Clean and Green

Seeking Community Garden Leadership

Healthy plants providing produce for the LCCI food pantry

by Lynne Hart In 2013, Keep AthensLimestone Beautiful received a grant from Lowe's Corporate through Keep America Beautiful to create a community garden at the Farmer's Market. It was our hope to create a place where fresh produce could be grown and provided to those in our community that would benefit from it.

Asphalt was removed and additional green space was added to the property in preparation for garden beds. Hundreds of volunteer hours were spent building three raised beds and three hugelkultur beds.

What is a hugelkultur bed, you ask? It was a new concept to us as well.

Hugelkultur (pronounced hoogle-culture) beds are created by either digging a hole and filling it with tree trunks, limbs, and branches along with other compostable materials or just piling them up and covering them with dirt. The trees will become spongy as they decompose and will absorb and hold water, feeding it back to plants during dry periods. All of the materials attract healthy organisms which improve the soil, which benefits any plants grown on or around these beds.

Many volunteer hours were also spent tilling the beds, planting, weeding, and harvesting crops. All of the produce that has been grown has been donated to

Eggplants (obviously.....) growing in one of two keyhole beds.

LCCI's food pantry.

We are proud of the vision we had for this garden and what has been accomplished; however, we at KALB believe that our staff and the KALB commission have taken this project as far as we are

capable of doing. It is time to turn the gardens over to a more capable community group with gardening knowledge that will allow them to expand into sustainable vertical gardening to substantially increase the

harvest and help make this garden what we envisioned it could be. We would like to turn this project over to people that have a heart for the community with a de-

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Part of the grant money received was used to build a storage shed for garden tools and equipment. Several hoses, sprinklers, rakes, and hand tools will be available. Plans to create a drip system have been discussed and funds are available to make this happen with the right person taking charge.

Our contribution to LCCI has been small, but appreciated. We know this community garden is capable of so much more than we are able to accomplish.

Volunteers building raised beds and poles for green beans

Volunteers creating hugelkultur beds.

Three were created by filling beds with fallen trees, leaf mulch, and manure, and covering them with a mound of soil.

These compostable materials attract healthy organisms which improve the soil, and the tree materials absorb and retain water which benefits any plants grown on or near them

sire to bring fresh produce to those in need, whether that be LCCI or for another worthy purpose.

We welcome anyone to contact us for more information on the community garden project. Let's make our community garden a GREAT garden!

Become a Fan

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

February 19 - March 3, 2016

Cooking with Shelley

“Oven Ready” Lasagna

by Shelley Underhill They call it “oven ready,” and that it is! What I have always disliked about making lasagna was that I had to boil the pasta. What a “HOT MESS!” Not no more, as the Cajuns say. A new pasta is on the market. They call oven ready lasagna. You make it the same way you did the old style, except you layer it with the uncooked pasta.

Give it a try and let me know what you think. You can email me at shelleysdesk@ gmail.com. Enjoy!

“Oven Ready” Lasagna 1 box Oven Ready Lasagna 2 bags shredded Mozzarella cheese 1 jar (large) of Ragu pasta sauce (your choice of flavor) 1 ½ lbs ground beef, cooked, drained well, then chopped fine What You Will Do: Spray well a 9x13 baking pan. Start the layering process, beginning with the Ragu, adding the pasta next, then the meat, and finally the cheese. Repeat as desired. You should end with the cheese as the top layer. Bake for 50 minutes covered with foil, then another 10 to 12 minutes uncovered. Let lasagna rest for about 8 to10 minutes before serving so that it will not be so soupy.

February 19 - March 3, 2016

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Health and Fitness

What Do You Need In An Exercise Routine?

by Janet Hunt

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

The Internet is loaded with information about exercise.

At this time of year, every magazine advertises their “magic” exercise program to lose weight and more.

Some programs claim ways to burn fat, while others are designed to improve your strength or flatten your abs.

Some experts believe cardio is most important, others promote strength training, while still others tout yoga or Pilates as the best.

As I have said before, there are no good or bad exercises (as long as they are safe).

You need to do what works for your body and what you enjoy. If you hate, running – don’t do it. In general, though, a well-rounded fitness regime should include three components: cardio, resistance, and flexibility training. Below is a summary of each component and why it is important.

Cardio work is exercise that gets your heartrate up.

It is training your heart to be more efficient at pumping blood throughout your body. Regular cardio work makes it easier to perform daily activities like walking upstairs or cleaning house, and it lowers your risk of cardiovascular disease and other chronic illnesses.

Your goal should be to perform cardio work 5-7 days per week for at least 30 minutes. These 30 minutes can be at one time, or broken into 10 minute increments several times a day.

Resistance or strength training is the exercise that places external stress on your muscles and joints.

Your body responds to this work by increasing its bone density and its lean muscle mass. By increasing your muscle mass, you increase your metabolism.

Since muscles burn calo-

ries, the more muscle you have the more calories you will burn. Experts recommend performing eight to ten strength training exercises two to three times per week. Resistance exercises can include body-weight exercises, dumbbell exercises, resistance tubing exercises, kettlebell workouts, and more. Strength training helps with your stability and strength for all your daily life activities such gardening, laundry, or lifting kids or grandkids.

Flexibility training is often overlooked, but it is equally (or maybe more) important as cardio or strength work in your fitness program.

Lack of flexibility is associated with poor posture and sometimes pain. Without flexibility exercises, you begin to lose your range of motion which affects even the simplest daily routines.

To improve your flexibility,

mobility, and range of motion, perform a stretching routine two or three times per week. Focus on stretching a large muscle group such as hamstrings and hip

muscles, lower back and chest to reduce the impact of daily lifestyle activities like sitting or standing.

After you find a fitness program that you like, make sure to change it up periodically to prevent boredom and encourage progress. Try different activities or classes to see what you enjoy the most. If you enjoy the exercise activity that you are participating in, you are more likely to establish a long term commitment to and remain consistent in your exercise program. Regardless of your fitness level, each program can be adapted to your current wants and needs. If you are uncertain of where to begin, hire a certified personal trainer. This will ensure that you learn proper form and technique.

For more information, contact Janet Hunt, ACE Certified Personal Trainer at 256-614-3530.

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February 19 - March 3, 2016

Cover Story

The Gathering: A Place Of Grace Where You are Loved, Accepted, And Forgiven

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

makes them tick is always a joy, and to hear stories of brokenness, grace, and triumph is invariably edifying. This night was no exception, and I headed back home feeling refreshed.

One of the things that impressed me about this group was their desire to reach out to other fellowships for the purpose of strengthening them, and there was no spirit of competition, no feeling of either insulation or isolation.

By way of demographics, there is a phenomenon occurring in American Christianity that some find disturbing, and to others it is a welcome breeze. It is the growth of the non-denominational church or fellowship. In June of 2015, Christianity Today published a piece written by Ed Stetzer called The Rapid Rise Of Non-Denominational Christianity. Mr. Stetzer is executive director of LifeWay Research, an evangelical research organization. His article discussed the growth of “non-denoms,” as they are sometimes called, and had the following to say:

Stetzer believes that very soon non-denominationalism will account for a full third of American Christianity, and it is precisely that trend that

Greg had some thoughts about the vision of The Gathering, and said: “We are excited about seeing people set free from the legalism that arises from the toxic mixture of Old Covenant Law and the New Covenant of forgiveness.

We long to see God's people moving again in the unconditional (Agape) love and power of the Holy Spirit as ambassadors of His Kingdom. We are reminded in Hebrews 8:13 that ‘By calling this covenant ‘new,’ He has made the first one obsolete; and what is ob-

brought The Gathering into being.

Stetzer additionally noted in a companion article featured on CNN.com, that from his perspective:

The Gathering’s leadership team, which consists of Guy and Wanda Fry, Steve and Sherry Heinzleman, and Greg and Pam Kiyak, have all walked with God for decades.

They have been active church members, have occupied a number of church government positions, have a solid understanding of God’s Word, and Greg and Pam are seasoned worship leaders. Each of them would tell you that there came a time when they felt strongly led by the Holy Spirit to start a fellowship, and were supernaturally brought together to do so.

The sky still isn't falling on American Christianity or evangelicalism.

Rather, there is a stunning growth in nondenominational evangelicalism that is reshaping the religious landscape today. More and more churchgoing

I asked them about their vision for The Gathering, and who would be a good fit for that style of fellowship. They replied that their desire was to have it be “a safe place, and a place where people who would not necessarily feel comfortable in a regular church could

“Using a baseline average from 1972–1976, over the last four decades, there has been more than a 400 percent growth in Protestants who identify as nondenominational.”

important things to her was that The Gathering “feels like a family,” and the rest agreed. They wanted people to understand that because of the New Covenant, when God sees you, He sees you in Christ, period.

Christians, when asked about denomination, are saying, "none." American Christianity is becoming more nondenominational and more evangelical at the same time.

continued from page 1

February 19 - March 3, 2016

come.” Collectively they have decades of experience in ministering to people from any number of backgrounds—the homeless, people with substance issues, who are struggling with gender issues, who have been badly hurt by religious abuse, who feel judged and hopeless, or who have felt like “just a number” and not a member.

Spirit to come, move, and be in charge.” They do not have a bulletin, and there is no pre-determined order to the service.

It was also their desire to have The Gathering be administered by a leadership team, and not just a head minister and an elder board. They feel that approach would make for more accountability, and more closeness all the way around.

solete and outdated will soon disappear.’ Our prayer is that all will come to know and experience the true Father heart of God.”

They all agreed that they had “had it up to here” with religion and legalism, and “just don’t want to be religious.” By contrast, they want The Gathering to be “a fellowship of believers who come together to praise God, and allow the Holy

“We want to help people go from dead works to a living relationship with Jesus Christ,” said Guy, and they all felt that going through their various struggles with religion had made them stronger. Wanda mentioned that one of the most

Sunday mornings 10 am 100 Beaty Street (at the Visitors Center) 256-230-8080 or 256-874-0090.

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If this describes what you are looking for in a Christian fellowship, then come visit The Gathering.

The Gathering

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February 19 - March 3, 2016

Cover Story

Eddie Alley For District Judge: Experience, Fairness, And Values

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

stone County, developed his work ethic and values by spending long hours in the family business. His dad was resourceful, and with Eddie’s help, carved out a livelihood harvesting mussels from the Tennessee River. Eddie worked year round with his dad, irrespective of the weather, and that hard work got him ready for his calling: law and justice. It is this path that he has travelled as a practicing attorney for the last 13 years.

He earned his undergraduate degree in Political Science from the University of Alabama, and graduated with honors. He also received his law degree from Alabama, and while still in law school (and clerking for the local District Attorney’s office), he tried several felony cases successfully. Because of his stellar performance, he was recruited by the DA’s office right out of law school and personally prosecuted

everything from drugs to murder. In addition, he conducted Grand Jury proceedings for thousands of serious felony cases.

The result of his then young career and hard work flagged him as the candidate of choice by the Bush Administration as a Special Federal Prosecutor. He was appointed to that position by the US Department of Justice, and his work there was largely in the realm of violent crime reduction, a position he held for three years.

While in the Limestone County District Attorney’s Office, Eddie was personally responsible for the prosecution of thousands of misdemeanor cases, hundreds of felony cases, and he handled most of the cases that involved drugs and narcotics. In 2011, he opened his own successful law firm after being a full-time state prosecutor for over 8 years.

He can add to his list of experiences that of being a small business owner. Part

February 19 - March 3, 2016

The Alley Family: (L-R): Sharie, holding Tate, Eddie, and Reagan

of his calling is that of an educator, and he has taught law both in Alabama police academies, as well as on Redstone Arsenal.

His job on the Arsenal has been to teach legal courses at the National Center for Explosives Technology and Research for state, local, and federal law enforcement, as well as the military and NATO allies. We talked for quite awhile about what is often referred to as IEDs, or Improvised Explosive

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Devices, and while he has always been a strong supporter of our veterans, he said that hearing about what they have gone through in the Middle East has been truly eye-opening. “Anything that I can do to make it possible for our warfighters to do their job well, I will,” he said. I was touched by his humility as well as his gratitude for those who put their lives on the line for us.

He is a strong proponent of the 2nd Amendment, and a Life Member of the National Rifle Association. He is also a member of the Veterans’ Museum. He is keenly aware of our responsibility as a society to take care of our veterans, especially those who have returned from a fight that was not only physically brutal, but also philosophically and psychologically.

We discussed the fact that several good people are running for the many judicial positions that have become open. I asked him why, given the fact that he is in a race that is uncommonly gentlemanly, I should vote for him.

His answer was simple

and quick: “Experience.

For the past 13 years, I have tried cases in District Court, Circuit Court, and Municipal Court. I have taught law. I have been a Special Federal Prosecutor during the George W. Bush administration. I served as a Special Municipal Judge for Athens and Ardmore. I have been on both sides of every type of case you can imagine, and have had to examine cases from every possible perspective.”

Eddie is married to Dr. Sharie Alley, and is the father of two girls. We talked about how parenthood changes everything, and the protectiveness we feel for our families, our first responders, and our community.

As far as Eddie’s involvement in the community of Athens-Limestone County, it can only be described as “extensive.” In the past, he was on the board of the Boys and Girls Club of Athens, and belonged to the Rotary Club of Athens.

Currently he is a member of the Limestone County Chamber of Commerce, the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, and the Fraternal Order of Police. He is a member in good standing of the Bar Associations of the State of Alabama as well as Limestone County. He also serves on the Limestone County Republican Executive Committee.

If experience, fairness, and values are what you are seeking in a District Judge, then vote for Eddie Alley on March 1st.

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Learning As A Lifestyle

Songs of the Sixties

by Wanda Campbell

Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 On Saturday, February 27, the Center for Lifelong Learning will host a performance called Songs of the Sixties by the Athens State Community Chorus and the Decatur Civic Chorus. The show will take place in the Sandridge Student Center Ballroom on the Athens State University campus. Dinner will be served from 6:00pm7:00pm, and Sounds of the Sixties concert will be from 7:00pm8:30pm. Tickets are available at the Center for Lifelong Learning for $25, which includes your dinner and the show. Get your tickets

by Thursday, February 25!

I am really excited about this concert. The Sixties were my era.

My prom song was Crimson and Clover, by Tommy James and the Shondells. I can put a memory on most of the songs from that time period.

In the sixties, there was music from Elvis Presley, Otis Redding, Ray Charles, Pat Boone, The Highwaymen, Chubby Checkers and Frank Sinatra. And as I sit here writing this, a flood of favorite songs are coming back to me.

Do you remember Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polkadot Bikini? It was a song from 1960 written by Paul Vance and Lee Pockriss. The song was released by

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Redding did (Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay. Or maybe you remember Mrs. Robinson by Simon and Garfunkel.

How about Harper Valley PTA by Jeannie C. Riley?

Brian Hyland with an orchestra conducted

by John Dixon. It was about a shy girl going to the beach in a bikini for the first time. Boy, how I could relate! Bikinis were so skimpy after all those one-piece bathing suits.

made a lot of stops all over the world, And in every port I own the heart, Of at least one lovely girl…..”

Maybe the early sixties are too early for you to remember. What about 1968? That is when Otis

I know you remember I Heard it Through the Grapevine by Marvin Gaye. That song was used in a popular commercial for raisins in 1986. It was a commercial made for California Raisins and had raisins dancing and singing “I heard it through the grapevine.” It was very popular for several years. Burger King even had California Raisins as the toy in their kids’ meals.

Whatever the song, I am sure you can sing along with me during the concert. Don’t forget to get your tickets by February 25. And if you have not

gotten your registration in for the Women’s Symposium – Leadership Next: Defying Gravity -- on March 2, you will need to do that

by February 25, too.

We are doing so much at the Center for Lifelong Learning. Whether you like travel, want to take classes, or need professional development courses, the Center is the place to never stop learning. Just check out the web site – www.athens.edu/CLL or call us at 256-233-8260.

And remember, we are all over social media.

You can follow us on Instagram at centerforlifelonglearning.

You can tweet us at ASU Center@CLLatASU, or you can like us on Facebook at Center for Lifelong Learning at Athens State University.

Maybe you don’t remember that one, but what about Travelin’ Man by Ricky Nelson? I know you remember Ricky Nelson. His whole family was on television in The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet (mom and dad). Ricky and his brother David were not the stars, but they provided enough entertainment so that they were interesting to watch. Besides, Ricky was SOOOO CUTE when I was a teenager. I could just listen all day – “I'm a travelin' man, I've

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February 19 - March 3, 2016

What Makes Ronnie Roll

Storms, Safety, Spring, And The Shakes

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Often times, Mayor Ronnie has come in so full from the weekend that it’s hard to confine all that is inspiring him to around 500 words. Sometimes there are tough things going on, and they need to be talked about, prayed about, and printed. This particular day it was both.

“We are coming up on storm season,” he said, “and people need to be prepared.” Of course, preparation is always a relative thing, and yet, it still is puzzling as to how so many people seem to just ignore storm season, and hope it will completely bypass them. I imagine we will address it again at length, but for the abbreviated imperative statement in this particular Ronnie, it’s time to buy your batteries, be able to reach your flashlight by Braille, purchase your water, and review your storm plan with your family. “Be alert,” were his two words on the subject. ‘Nuff said.

Public Tough stuff: safety issues. We have talked many times over the years about mental health, something that we have both dealt with in our careers, and with which I have had to grapple personally with in regard to more than one family member. Outside of faith, sometimes the answers just don’t seem to be readily available, and for a public official, that is as humbling as it is frustrating. When ill mental health threatens

to all, especially the sufferers and their families.

Spring: “There is so much good stuff going on in our community that I almost don’t know where to start,” he said.

Per usual, he always worries that he is leaving somebody out. The Boy Scouts are honored to have Coach Bruce Pearl confirmed as their keynote speaker on April 6th. Coach Pearl is a legend in the NCAA basketball world, and is currently a coach at Auburn.

“He is one of the finest motivational speakers I have ever heard,” said Mayor Ronnie, and he has personally heard many.

the welfare of others, it is one of the worst situations imaginable, as we have recently seen in Florence and Athens.

regard to dealing with it from the standpoint of public safety. May God grant wisdom and relief

He was jazzed about the upcoming Intercultural Seminar to be hosted by ASU and the City of Athens. The Cultural Competency presentations are open to the public, and are designed for first

responders, the public at large, and for those in education. It will be held on Monday and Tue, February 22nd and 23rd, and for more information, see the Community Calendar on page six.

The Home and Garden Show is coming on March 11th and 12th, and it seems like our whole city looks to it as being the proof that Spring will truly come again.

And finally, how about those Shakes?? Three Grammys? The Alabama Shakes have always been dear to the Mayor’s heart, because his wife, Sandra, has known Brittney Howard’s grandmother since they were in high school. We both love the fact that in spite of fame, the Shakes still claim our wonderful town as their own. We prayed, and then it was time to roll, left both sobered, yet joyful.

Anyone, whether a first responder, a parent, a teacher, or a public official, knows that mental ill health is “equal opportunity” when it comes to its devastating effects on everyone.

“Mental illness knows no gender, race or age,” he said as he sighed, and I nodded as we were quiet for awhile.

When we prayed, we prayed for every person in our area who struggles with it, their families, and everyone who has to make any kind of a decision with

February 19 - March 3, 2016

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Page 19

Horse Whispering

More Or Less

by Deb Kitchenmaster “Fear less, hope more Eat less, chew more Whine less, breathe more Talk less, say more Love more, and all good things will be yours.”

perience dignity under your leadership, you will do the less and the more in a specific moment and watch your horse WANT to do what you are asking.

ing or reacting to you.

Now that is awesome stuff! Why? Because you

-Swedish Proverb Horses communicate to us through their body language. This is where the “more” or “less” becomes our focus.

Studying the horse and understanding what a head held high means, versus a head held low or level. Is the horse’s body standing still and resting a hoof, or can’t the horse stand still?

What about the ears?

Are the ears pinned back, actively moving forward and backward, or are they relaxed and attentive to me? What about the horse’s tail?

Is it tucked and tight, or loose?

Being observant, aware, and noticing will help you understand the four primary needs or “motivations” of a horse. They are safety first, comfort, play, and then food. If a horse does not have confidence in loading onto a horse trailer, more than likely, he’s just not that interested in food. From “safety” comes confidence, from confidence comes curiosity, from curiosity comes sensitivity, and from sensitivity comes dignity.

“Three rules that work: #1 – out of clutter, find simplicity #2 – from discord; find harmony #3 – in the middle of difficulty lays opportunity.”

What does this MORE or LESS look like?

When you are with a horse that is right brain (meaning they are submissive, fearful, not confident, nervous and reactive), you would

have the mind, spirit, body, and emotions of the horse who now “is” a “YES!” When we connect with our YES, we move forward together in unity, harmony, AND with an unforced rhythm.

Your belly button is like a bright beacon light to some of these horses. Simply turning and walking away from your right brain horse can be a foundational block in your relationship with your horse. You’ve just removed MORE pressure by this simple act and given the horse breathing space to consider you a worthwhile leader.

Remember, horsemanship starts when your horse “sees” you. Also, “Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.” Albert Einstein

In the archives of Albert Einstein, he stated,

MORE quickly interrupt Have MORE fun and their phrases. Working LESS cares as you enjoy with a left brain horse horsing around. (dominant, brave, confi- Be safe. dent, calm, and tolerant), you would do less by Your NEIGHbor, slowly interrupting their Deb Kitchenmaster phrase and quickly comCorral Connections pleting. A phrase would www.corralconnections.com be the communication ‘A church of great heart’ between you and your 256-426-7947 horse to accomplish the goal that you have and Animal B.E.S.T. practitioner how the horse is respond- dkitchenmaster@mchsi.com

Anybody can make a horse do something.

However, if your goal is for your horse to ex-

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The MORE or LESS will come as you work with an introverted horse (low energy, more “whoa” than go, slow reactions, and stops often) versus and extroverted horse (high energy, more “go” than whoa, quick reactions, and runs often).

Understanding and identifying your horse is the key to knowing MORE or LESS.

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February 19 - March 3, 2016

Fitness, Fiscally Speaking

Asset Allocation: A Step To Balancing Your Portfolio

By Wayne Kuykendall, Financial Services Representative with Strategic Financial Partners, an office of MetLife.

As the global markets continue to fluctuate, many investors and their portfolios are feeling the effects.

Therefore, a sudden dip or rise in a portfolio may be the perfect time to take a look at whether or not one’s investments are truly diversified and assets are properly allocated among the different asset classes (e.g., equities, fixed income, and money market/cash equivalents). Asset allocation and diversification are techniques used to manage risk and attempt to balance the risks versus rewards of an investment portfolio. However, neither asset allocation nor diversification can prevent investment loss or assure a profit.

For many investors, investing typically begins with the purchase of a stock, a bond or a mutual fund. Over time, other investments may be added because many people understand

it may not be prudent to invest in a single investment.

However, simply “spreading money around” in various investment vehicles doesn’t necessarily create a properly diversified portfolio.

A sound portfolio management strategy begins with diversification – that is, dividing investments among major asset classes. Since each type of asset class has unique characteristics, they will rarely rise or fall at the same time, creating somewhat of a buffer in your investment portfolio. An investor can then make finer distinctions within each asset class by combining different assets to help soften the risks and losses within the portfolio, though in no way do they eliminate them all together.

The main objective of diversification is to match the characteristics of the various investments and their asset classes to percentages

allocated within your investment portfolio so that the allocated percentages match the most important aspects of your personal investment profile. For example, your tolerance for risk of loss or ability to handle the ups and downs of a volatile market and what you ultimately seek to achieve through investing should all inform how you allocate your investment dollars to different asset classes.

Investing according to your risk tolerance helps to keep you from making rash decisions when it comes to your investment portfolio. One way to measure your risk comfort zone is to ask yourself how much of a loss in a one-year period you could withstand and still stay the course. Finding an appropriate match of your tolerance for risk against the different volatility levels of returns is the ultimate goal of asset allocation. For example, if the thought of potentially losing

10 percent of your portfolio’s value over the next year for the potential to gain 20 percent within the next five years makes you uncomfortable, you may want to consider a more conservatively allocated portfolio. The potential for higher returns usually involves taking a greater degree of risk.

Lastly, understanding how long you want to invest in order to meet your goals is important. In fact, it may be the thing that makes you choose one investment vehicle over another. Your personal time horizon extends from when you implement an investment strategy until you need to begin withdrawing money from an investment or investment portfolio.

You may wonder at this point how much should be invested in each asset class.

The short answer is that asset allocation is more a personal process than a strategy based on a set formula. There are guidelines to help establish the general framework of a well-diversified and properly allocated portfolio but no two portfolios are alike.

Keep in mind, a properly allocated and diversified

February 19 - March 3, 2016

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portfolio will not guarantee against a loss and there is no guarantee that an allocated or diversified portfolio will outperform the market.

When crafting an asset allocation strategy, make sure to take all of your assets into account, including your retirement savings and any other investments you may. That way, you can ensure that all your assets are working together to help meet your goals and objectives throughout all stages of your life.

Prepared by MetLife Delivered courtesy of Wayne Kuykendall, Financial Services Representative Strategic Financial Partners, an office of MetLife For more information on the financial, risk and wealth management strategies that Wayne Kuykendall provides, please contact him at 256-777-4524, wayne.d.kuykendall@strategicfinancialpartners.com, or 105 South Marion Street, Suite 202, Athens, AL 35611

Page 21

Medical Update

Understanding And Combating Adrenal Fatigue

by Rachel Clark, RN, BSN Feeling tired all the time, yet have trouble falling asleep when you lay down at night? Are you more irritable, or get angry easier than you once did? Do you crave sugar, carbs, fat, salt, or all of those things? Do you find that you need that extra caffeine in the afternoon that you didn’t used to? Are you beginning to gain weight, particularly around your middle (a muffin top, or spare tire)?

Are you getting sick more often than you once did, and staying sicker longer?

Are you feeling anxious, or depressed, and aren’t really sure why? Having problems focusing, not getting your work done? Experiencing mood/hormone swings, or difficulty with fertility? Is your digestive system all messed up?

that sharpens our thinking, mobilizes blood sugar, and gives us energy. The rate of breathing increases, heart rate goes up, and senses are heightened. Once the threat is gone, the system normalizes and all is well again.

However, we now live in crisis-mode most of the time. There is no time for our bodies to process the first threat before another is upon us, and yet another after that. Our lives are in a constant state of stress, without the time to recover. Eventually, if we do not interrupt the cycle, our adrenals will be overloaded, and not function properly.

We will continuously pump

out too much sugar and insulin (which is a hormone excreted by the pancreas to get sugar out of the blood stream and into the cells where it can be used for fuel/energy), and can lead to insulin resistance and diabetes. This is followed up by cravings for salt and fat, which is necessary for the reaction to occur.

success. Perfectionism is a precursor for all kinds of mental and emotional disturbances, such as anxiety and depression. When we are no longer driven by the need to overachieve and say “yes” to every opportunity that comes our way, we can be truly present in our own bodies and begin to combat pressure.

So, how do we prevent our bodies from getting overworked and protect our adrenal glands? One thing to realize is that perfectionism creates a stress response, similar to other types of chronic stress. It is also an addiction, because we are driven to more and more

If you are already experiencing adrenal fatigue, here are some practical tips to help you begin to bounce back:

According to renowned midwife, herbalist, and functional medicine doctor Aviva Romm, M.D., the above listed symptoms are the top 10 indicators of adrenal fatigue.

•Sleep hygiene. Your body needs 7-8 hours of sleep to repair itself. Skip that 4pm cup of coffee. Take the TV out of your bedroom. Turn off your phone and other electronic devices after 9pm (or at least an hour before going to sleep). Keep your bedroom dark and quiet. Go to bed and get up at the same time each day to keep your circadian rhythm in balance. Take a hot bath. Drink some herbal tea (chamomile or lavender are great options).

•Keep blood sugar balanced. Don’t skip meals.

Eat a high protein breakfast. Skip sugary foods and drinks during the day. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and good quality fats.

•Reduce or eliminate caffeine intake. Caffeine is a drug, and it allows you to push past your body’s natural limits and perpetuates the vicious cycle of stress you are trying to break.

The adrenal glands sit at the top of the kidneys (about midway down the back) and control many of the automatic responses of our daily lives. Most people only relate them to to “fight or flight” response, which is one of their main functions, but they affect so much more, including blood pressure, stress response, immunity, weight, and blood sugar regulation. When the adrenals are activated by a situation, our normal response is to either get away from it or defend ourselves. In this response, we pump out cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone

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•RELAX! Find an activity that you enjoy doing that doesn’t put any pressure on you, and then do it.

Read, hike, go on a trip, get

a massage. Whatever you choose, do something that will help you unwind.

•Exercise. Move your body. It will give you more energy by releasing endorphins. But be careful not to over do it, as that can also contribute to further issues.

•Talk to an herbalist. They may be able to suggest options that will help you support your body as you try to make the necessary changes to take back your health.

Stress is a reality in life.

However, you are in control of how much you allow it to control your mind, body, and spirit. Take back your life, and nourish your adrenal glands.

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Foreman’s Forum

Are You Smarter Than a Five Year Old?

by Paul Foreman

I am about the most “pro gun, Pro 2nd Amendment” guy around. I fully believe in our Constitutional right to self defense. I also believe that citizens who have firearms MUST keep those guns stored in a secure manner. Secure, in this case, means that absolutely NO person can gain access to your guns that is NOT trained on how to safely and properly use them.

Are you smarter than a five year old? Recently, a five year old boy found his grandfather’s gun in the grandpa’s bedroom.

The child shot and killed his nine year old sister.

In doing my research for this forum, I was, at first, horrified that Alabama has no law providing for someone to be charged as a criminal for allowing access to a gun by unauthorized persons. In Florida, there is a state statute in which an adult can be charged with a felony if a child finds the unsecured gun.

From my experience as a law enforcement officer there, the statute was rarely used. The horrific trauma which parents of a child face after their child is killed, or kills another child, is just about unspeakable. Most of the time, the State’s Attorney in Florida just would not put the parent in jail after their child was killed accidently.

When my boys were little, (2 and 4 years old,) I was a State Park Ranger. Now remember,

we lived way out in the boonies, 18 miles from nowhere. We had no neighborhood children wondering in and out of our trailer which was parked out in the Piney Flatwoods of Central Florida. I could come in for lunch or supper, lay my gun belt on the couch, and the boys didn’t think anything of it. Now, if I had told them, “Don’t you ever

says to store guns in a locked safe and store ammo separately. But, when seconds count, and some drug crazed thug is kicking in your door, it’s better to have a gun in your hand than a cop on your phone!

touch that,” I am sure they would have gone right over and touched it just to see if it was hot. Later, I was sent to a different park with other rangers and their children living close by.

The gun would be put on a top shelf, way back in the closet. I don’t ever remember telling the boys where it was and they never asked.

I say all this to get this point across. A five year old is VERY smart! If you were a five year old, could you find your par-

February 19 - March 3, 2016

ents’ gun? How many times did you go looking for, and find, Christmas presents before Christmas morning? A safe is the best place to store a gun so no unauthorized persons can get it. Now comes the tricky part. If your gun is locked up in a safe, how could you ever get to it in a hurry if some miscreant is kicking in your front door?

Even the NRA pistol class, which I teach,

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There are some excellent products on the market to solve the “locked up” gun dilemma. Starting with the most economical, there are safes which have easy access by a keyed lock. But where is the key? Can a child find it? Can you find it?

A little more expensive are safes with a combination lock. You can set your own numbers, and hopefully you won’t forget them! Another safe, which I think is the one of the best choices, has a Biometric lock. It reads your fingerprints and pops open. Still another safe is opened by a digital signal on a ring or

bracelet that you wear.

Pass your hand within 6-8 inches, and the lid pops open. You can find these gun safes at most big box sporting goods stores and online. The prices range from $29 for the key locked box, up to $195, for the biometric ones.

Other ways to hide your guns can be behind picture frames, hidden shelves under furniture, drawers with false bottoms, and even magnets that secure your gun out of sight. Just remember, a five year old is very good at finding things he is not supposed to find.

Secure your guns! You are NOT a responsible gun owner if you aren’t smarter than a five year old.

Paul Foreman Retired Deputy Sheriff, Lee County Florida NRA Certified Instructor Paul can be reached through e-Mail at Captureman@PaulForeman.com or his web site, www.PaulForeman.com

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