AthensNowAl 7-20-2018

July 20th - August 2nd, 2018

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

See Our Listings Inside this edition...

Pages 25 - 32

Special Feature Premier Structures Incorporated: Building Buildings And People...

In 1986, Will Evans and his wife, Helen, started Premier Structures Incorporated, and since that time, PSI has become...

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From The Vets' Museum

The 2018 Women’s Resource Center New Hope Dinner: An Evening With Ryan Dobson

By Ali Elizabeth Turner On Saturday, August 11, North Alabama is in for a real treat: an evening with Ryan Dobson, son of Dr. James and Shirley Dobson Continued on page 15

Kelly’s Studio Of Dance: It’ Always Been About Much More Than Dancing

Alabama Veteran Museum Marks 20th Anniversary...

North Alabama is visited by countless tourists each year, and one of the most visited attractions is our Alabama Veterans Museum and Archives....

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Tourism AthensLimestone Alabama Is Thriving With Fun And Things To Do...

Things To Enjoy In Athens-Limestone Alabama...

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July 20 - August 2, 2018

By Ali Elizabeth Turner I first interviewed Kelly Nave, founder of Kelly’s Studio of Dance, almost seven years ago to the day, and I remember how impressed I was with the fact that she was about way more Continued on pages 17

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July 20 - August 2, 2018

Publisher’s Point Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Copy Editor

Grit And Gratitude

Yvonne Dempsey

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Contributing Writers Janet Hunt D. A. Slinkard Lisa Philippart Lynne Hart Anna Hamilton Cayce Lee Rosemary Dewar Tim Lambert Yvonne Dempsey Deb Kitchenmaster Jackie Warner Eric Betts

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 6 From The Vets' Museum . . . 7 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 8 Slinkard on Success . . . . . . 9 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 PlayAction Sports . . . . . . . 11 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Anna . . . . 13 The Millennial Mind . . . . 14 Cover Stores . . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 16 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . 18 View From The Bridge . . . 19 Horse Whispering . . . . . 20 Mental Health Minute . . . 21 Medical Point . . . . . . . 22

July 20 - August 2, 2018

I just read the most remarkable story about an Alabamian by the name of Walter Carr, and thought to myself, “Can we clone this guy?” Just for the record, I am no fan of the concept of human cloning, but I think it’s reasonable to say that we could use a whole bunch more 20-year-olds like Walter. In the wacky world of social media, Walter’s dear story has gone viral, and it was his monster work ethic, integrity, and perseverance that that got him fame, a Ford Escape, friends, funding, and a Facebook following; none of which he expected, nor to which he felt entitled.

What did Walter do? He walked all night (to the tune of 20 miles) to get to his first day of work as a mover, and then worked all day without complaining. Why did he do it?

Walter and his mother lost their New Orleans home to Hurricane Katrina back in 2005, and they moved to Alabama.

Having suffered such loss and heartbreak, Walter was determined to succeed in life. But, he desperately needed the money from this job; he had just rented an apartment and his car had broken down. So he got resourceful in the way that folks did during the Great Depression. The 21st century version is that Walter went online and calculated how long it would take to walk from Homewood to Pelham, and Google estimated 8 hours. Walter had run cross country in high school, and felt confident that he could do it in less time than that. His friends freaked out and begged him not to do it, as walking all night anywhere these days can be risky, even for a guy. How-

ever, Walter had given his word to his new employer, Bellhops Moving Company, that he would be there, and he was going to show up, come hell or high water, and on time at that.

Walter armed himself with a small kitchen knife and a baseball to throw at potentially marauding dogs, ate some bologna and eggs at 8 p.m., took a 4-hour nap, and got on the road at midnight. A few hours in to it, he needed to toss the ball to distract a dangerous dog and kept going. He hit Hoover at 2 a.m. and made it to Pelham by

4:00 a.m., then sat down to rest for a bit because his legs were burning. He still had a ways to go. A policeman pulled up, saw him sitting, and asked if he was ok. Walter explained what he was doing, and the cop basically said, “Hop in.” Officer Knighten took Walter to get chicken and a biscuit, and Walter explained that all of his cash had just gone to paying rent.

Knighten insisted on treating Walter to not just one but two meals from Whataburger, and after they ate, dropped Walter off at a church parking lot.

Knighten had to get his cruiser “back to the ranch” because he was due to go off shift, but

not before he let other officers know what was going on. Because Walter had no idea if any of them were going to be able to break away and come get him, he decided to set off on foot again at 5:30 a.m., just to be sure that he would be on time.

Officer Al Duffey saw Walter walking on what truckers call a “skinny road” (meaning that it was two lane), pulled up next to him, told Walter that his trek had gone out over the police scanner, and that he was here to get Walter to work. Duffey

drove Walter the last 4 miles, and he arrived before the rest of the crew. The “lady of the house,” a woman named Jenny Lamey, was a bit curious as to why one of the movers was being delivered via police cruiser, and the story was told.

It brought her to tears, and she just wanted to let Walter sleep, but he insisted on working his shift. Then, Walter shot hoops with Lamey’s three sons, ages 16, 13, and 11. Her response?

"I can't imagine what kept him going." What came over him physically was supernatural. I think God helped him through.

He's such a humble, kindhearted person," she said, and then

added, "He's really incredible.

He said it was the way he was raised. Nothing is impossible unless you say it's impossible." One of Walter’s new coworkers gave him a ride home, and the next day, still more blessing was in store.

Walter’s new boss and CEO of Bellhops, Luke Marklin, got wind of his grit and called Walter to tell him that he wanted to express his gratitude in person. Walter agreed, and Mr. Marklin handed him the keys to a 2014 Ford Escape that had been driven very little. Marklin simply said that Walter had blown him away. Then, as if this isn’t enough, Ms. Lamey started a GoFundMe account for Walter that as of this printing has raised more than $44,000. So far Walter has been interviewed by the Washington Post, USA Today, CBS News, WAPI Newstalk 99.5 in Birmingham, and I hope he’ll consider coming and hanging with us at WKAC. Everybody who has met him says he is a humble guy, and I think it’s fitting to close this Point with Walter’s own words: "The lesson of my story is it's great to reach people, I always wanted to inspire people," he said.

"Don't let nobody tell you you can't do something. It's up to us whether we can." And all God’s people said, “Amen!”

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 Melée Over A Military Parade

by Ali Elizabeth Turner President Trump has been busy lately—travelling, hosting “Vlad,” touring Europe, perhaps flummoxing Queen Elizabeth by walking ahead of her for a couple of steps, nominating a Supreme Court Justice, pretty much creating a stir at home and abroad.

Business as usual, I’m jes’ sayin’. He wants to upgrade the appearance of Air Force One, and one snarky artist has implied that Air Force One is going to sport a picture of the Donald forward near the cockpit.

That’s unlikely, as the 3.9 billion dollar contract awarded to Boeing for two new planes is not due to be completed until 2024, which as well after the last possible moment that he could still be in office.

Hysterical calls for “an intervention” have been made on the House floor, accusations of treason and all manner of malfeasance have been levied everywhere from Colbert to Congress. System normal, except that POTUS came back from Paris with an idea that I don’t ever remember seeing in my lifetime: an uber-grand military parade. Now, it’s not

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that we have never had them. It used to be rather common for a president to be present and review a military parade on the 4th of July.

Jefferson, Madison, Van Buren, and Polk all were present for military parades.

They were common after WWII, and Ike had one as part of his Inauguration celebration.

JFK had one as well. Clearly during Vietnam the mood of the country was that it “wasn’t in the mood,” and Gerald marched down Constitution Avenue, and ‘Nam vets showed up in droves.

Ford did not call for one due to the controversy in the country over the war. Kinda like today…

Everyone knows that ‘Nam vets were not greeted with a parade when they came home, but still several vowed

to themselves that if there were ever another shooting war as well as a parade, they’d show up even if they were the only ones. In 1991, after the 1st Gulf War, Stealth fighter planes flew overhead while 8,000 troops

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The President has made it clear that in November, he wants us to have a military parade in honor of the 100th anniversary of the end of WWI, and people are going nuts.

At first, I thought that this would not be a great use of our money, but then I remembered a legendary Marine Colonel named Jack du Bois, who served as the dean of the theological school

I attended during the ‘70s, and retired into the position where he could provide much-needed leadership for young potential theologians. Jack understood the value of parades, and I had forgotten. Jack also never got to have a parade, and he deserved one.

Apparently it is going to cost around 12 million dollars for the parade that is going to be held in Washington DC, on November 10, with others to be held on November 11, Veterans Day. And, I am going to go on record that I think that it is a good use of our tax dollars.

Why? Because there is no price tag that can be put on restoring our confidence in the ability of our troops to protect and defend us, and to give the ‘Nam vets the parade they so richly deserve at last.

July 20 - August 2, 2018

Special Feature

Premier Structures Incorporated: Building Buildings And People

by Ali Elizabeth Turner In 1986, Will Evans and his wife, Helen, started Premier Structures Incorporated, and since that time, PSI has become one of the most highly-respected construction firms in the Tennessee Valley. Dan Mankins, who is now the owner, having purchased PSI from Miss Helen a few years after Mr. Will passed, knows firsthand what it is like to be built up and grow as a man while you are constructing buildings. He spent several years working at PSI, moving up the ranks until becoming its president as well as its CEO. Now he’s at a point in his personal and professional life where he wants to pay it forward by building up those who are coming up. That is not to be construed as a handout, but rather a chance to revive what is nearly a lost art – building relationships via mentoring the next generation through apprenticeship.

What this means in simpler terms is that PSI is hiring, and with all the growth that is forecast as well as is currently in play in our area, skilled construction workers are going to be in high demand for several years to come.

For example, PSI has been awarded contracts for the remodeling of the old Athens High School and some bigbox retail projects beginning in September, and they are in need of at least 10 new employees.

July 20 - August 2, 2018

Snap on tool in Elkmont When I first interviewed Dan in 2010, he said the following as it applies to PSI’s working philosophy regarding constructing buildings. What is interesting is that the same approach can be applied to building people, and PSI is in a great position to do just that: “What I try to focus on is the quality and value of work that we provide to our customers.

Our customers are people, not just companies. I want our company to do what we do, the right way, for a fair price. We don’t cut corners, we don’t do cheap work, period. Where

some companies have faltered by reducing their standards just to get jobs, we have found a way to keep our standards high and provide quality work that we can stand behind.

Along with our crews, we have a great group of subcontractors that work with us. We differ from most companies where we don’t shop prices or use a lot of different subcontractors.

This way we know what we’re getting. Our subs know what we expect, and we know what to expect from them. I believe that doing business this way is the only real way to get what you pay for.”

While this truly is “the only way to get what you pay for,” sadly the work ethic that assures that kind of quality is an endangered species in our culture, as Dan has found too often. However, he has wonderful stories that tell what can happen when someone is teachable and willing. “We had a kid who had been taught

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poorly, took shortcuts, and didn’t want to learn ‘how to do it right the first time.’ We had to let him go. He went to work for other firms, and learned the hard way what happens when you don’t do it right. He came back, was willing to learn, and now is a lead man. He’s headed toward becoming a supervisor.” Dan has a number of “tools” on hand to build his crew. They include friendly competition, a leadership team with literally decades of experience who also share Dan’s vision, and the challenge to the younger employees to “step up and teach somebody else to do your job,” as he says.

Dan told me further that this is what PSI requires in order to work there: American citizenship, ability to pass the drug test, and willingness to learn while putting forth their best effort. Women are welcome.

In fact, Dan says that in his experience women shine

brightly in the construction industry.

“Ok,” I said, “Let’s say I am looking for a job. Why should I come to you?” Here is his reply: “Our pay is in the middle, but we have something that hardly anyone else has, and that’s benefits. We have paid holidays and paid vacations.

We have holiday bonuses. We have retirement plans. If you are interested, once you become a supervisor, there is a voluntary profit-sharing program.”

He went on to tell me that PSI is experiencing some real “growing pains.” “Right now we are doing about 7 million dollars of business a year, and we need to get it up to 10 million in order to handle all the growth. To do that, we need to hire about 10 quality people before the end of the year who can come on board with our vision,” he said. I asked, “What is your vision?” “Building buildings and people,” he said. If you are looking to build a life while you are constructing buildings, then PSI is hiring.

Call them today to set up an interview.

PSI

2311 Hine St S, Athens, AL 35611 (256) 232-2092

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Calendar of Events Highway 31 in Athens. Featuring former college players as lead instructors from 9:00AM-1:00PM. Free. To register or more info: ToughAsNailsBaseball.com

26th Annual Piney Chapel American Farm Heritage Days Aug 3 & 4, 2018

Steel Magnolias Jul 26

20147 Elkton Road, Athens, AL 35614. Show Grounds Open at 7am til. Antique power exhibits, live animal exhibits, wheat threshing exhibits, skillet throw for the ladies, pedal pull for the kids. This years theme is "Everything John Deere". Tractor ride and fish fry on Friday, live entertainment. Admission: $5, Children 10 and under are free. For information, call 256-431-0619 or 256-206-5926.

Presented by the Footlights Community Theatre at Athens State University. McCandless Hall, 300 North Beaty Street in Athens.

6:00PM. Enjoy the tale of a group of small-town Southern women as they bond, gossip and cope with the loss of one of their own. Tickets at footlightsal.booktix.com

Will Haney Foundation Race of Champions 5K and Fun Run Jul 26

We're Looking For a Few Good Yards for the Month of July!

If you know of a gardener whose yard is exceptional (no professionally maintained yards, please) and would like to have them recognized, the Limestone County Master Gardeners would like to know, check out the website link http://mg.aces.edu/ limestone/were-looking-for-a-few-good-yards/ and/or provide the information and a picture to tlt_brown@charter.net.

Athens High School, 100 U.S. Highway 31N in Athens.

6:00PM-10:00PM. Impact to Athens Swan Creek Greenway will occur for this event. Information and Registration at WillHaneyFoundation.org

42nd Annual Alabama Championship Tractor and Truck Pull Jul 27 & 28

Singing on the Square featuring Dean Jul 20

Dean is a husband and wife duo who share their love of music with each other and the world. They will take the stage on the Marion Street side of the Limestone County Courthouse in downtown Athens from 6:00PM-8:00PM with a blend of Country and Rock.

Bring chair. Free.

Clements Community Yard Sale Jul 28

Fridays After Five Jul 20

Downtown Athens stays open late and offers shopping and dining specials, music, art and more. End your work week by staying late with us for Fridays After Five.

A state-certified farmers' market. Enjoy fresh produce, baked goods, music, art, and crafts at the Green Street pavilion, 409 West Green Street in Athens. 8:00AM to 12:00PM.

2nd Annual Mud Volleyball for a Cure Jul 21

With County for A Cure at Swan Creek Park. 100 U.S. Highway 31N in Athens from 8:00AM-5:00PM. Players: $20.00 ea Register at Active.com

For boys Age 7-12 at the Athens SportsPlex. 1403 U.S. Page 6

Clements High School. 7730 U.S. Highway 72 in Clements.

7:00AM-2:00P. Benefiting the sports program improvements to the equipment and facilities.

2018 Power Grid Defense Conference Aug 9-12

Athens Saturday Market Jul 21, 28

Tough as Nails Baseball Camp Jul 23-25

Tanner High School. 12060 Sommers Road in Tanner, AL. Gates open at 6PM and show starts at 7PM each night. Eight classes of rev' roaring fun each night. Admission: Ages 13 and up $15.00; Ages 6-12 $10.00; and Ages 6 and under are free.

Embassy Suites Hotel. The goals are 1) to get Alabama and the Tennessee Valley Authority to harden their power grids, 2) to ensure that the National Guard and Emergency Management are prepared to maintain operations during a multi-year nationwide grid down scenario, 3) to ensure communities have proper civil defense planning and 4) to ensure individuals know how to prep for such an event. Sessions will feature more emphasis on cyber-attacks. We will look at what is being done in other states. We will have a Public Services Commissioner and a State Senator in attendance. Lunches on Thursday and Friday, and dinner on Thursday. You can sign up for the entire event or pick and choose the days and events to best fit your interests, schedule and budget. For more information: www.powergriddefense.org/ PGDCcon2018.shtml. Sign up here: www.eventbrite.com/e/2 018-power-grid-defense-symposium-tickets-41927754041.

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July 20 - August 2, 2018

From The Vets' Museum

Alabama Veteran Museum Marks 20th Anniversary

by Yvonne Dempsey Limestone Veterans Burial Detail member and Alabama Veterans Museum volunteer North Alabama is visited by countless tourists each year, and one of the most visited attractions is our Alabama Veterans Museum and Archives.

August 2018 marks the 20th anniversary of the signing of the articles of incorporation giving birth to the museum, which has become a beloved asset to Athens and Limestone County.

Containing thousands of artifacts from the Revolutionary War to the present day and all branches of the service, the museum holds the stories and memories of local heroes and those on the homefront. Local veterans and their loved ones have donated precious, irreplaceable items to our museum in hopes that they will be preserved for generations to come. The role of our museum is to honor all the men and women who served and to educate the public. At our museum, the past is here for the future. Although we are still a young nation, we have seen and endured so much during our 200 years; we must remember and never forget our nation’s birth and its growing pains.

Our museum holds our history – the good, the bad, and the ugly; the sacrifices; the struggles; the triumphs. It’s real and it’s all here for everyone to experience.

Housed in a 100-yearold L&N Freight Depot, the museum was the brainchild of the

July 20 - August 2, 2018

late Kenneth David, who served as the Limestone County Veteran Service Officer. After collecting artifacts for an exhibit in 1995 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II, he was still left with artifacts that contributors no longer wanted. Ken felt that a permanent display was needed and with other veterans, began working on what is now our veterans museum. Donations of articles and money started pouring in. The support from area citizens was overwhelming and it still is. Over the years, our museum has grown and has actually outgrown the building. Plans are underway for an expansion that will allow us to better display and preserve all of the artifacts currently in the museum, as well as the extensive collections currently in storage.

We are always looking

for ways to honor our veterans, understand society during their times, and remember events that impacted the world. Various fundraisers, donations, and other events keep our museum alive and help us to serve the public. Coffee Call is one of our museum’s regular events held at 8:00 a.m. on the first Saturday of each month. It is a free breakfast for veterans, their families, and friends. This is sponsored by local businesses and individuals, with usually around 100-150 attendees.

“A Night to Celebrate,” a fundraiser for our museum featuring comedy magician Denny Corby on July 28.

Another

memorable

event will be held on Sunday, August 19, at 2:00 p.m. Please join us at the Athens Senior Center for a celebration of our museum’s anniversary. The entertaining show will include comedy skits, music, and stories centered around our museum, its artifacts, and local veterans. You’ll see familiar faces and hometown celebrities in a program reminiscent of classic TV comedy/variety shows. A limited number of tickets are on sale at the museum – $10 for adults and $5 for kids 12-under – and at the door. For information, call the museum at 256-771-7578. We look forward to seeing you there, and we thank you for your continuing support.

We hold an annual Memorial Day event honoring and remembering all of the deceased veteran. Other events and fundraisers are scheduled throughout the year. We would like to thank everyone who bought tickets for

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

The Power Of Yes

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

Mayor Ronnie always is careful to give credit where credit is due when it comes to acknowledging sources of inspiration. Monday started with him being pretty jazzed by a sermon that had been delivered the day before that had to do with the “power of yes.” “Yes can send you in the right direction, or completely in the wrong direction,” he said as we started off our time together. He continued, “If we’re not saying yes to being servants, we’re missing the boat.”

Saturday the 14th had been Serve Day, and in the Valley there were over 100 projects taken on by local congregations. LCCI (Limestone County Churches Involved) has a well-used center on Jefferson that was in need of some TLC. “We painted and scrubbed,” the mayor said, and I know from experience there is nothing like getting

tired for a good reason and being able to see the fruit of one’s labors.

The previous week, Mayor Ronnie had been at a League of Municipalities conference, which is always encouraging as well as intense. One of the things that any city faces, large or small, is weighing out the risk of paying up front for projects with the hopes that the investment will pay out. And, as we have said of-

ten, planning is difficult, all the more so when there are huge projects that are coming our way.

On the corner of Pryor and Highway 31, several buildings had been razed. They had a long history as part of the story of Athens. There was Tall Paul’s Rental. On an angle right on the corner there was the old site of the former Harley-Davidson dealership which had gone

on to become a spot for everything from car detailers to BBQ and truck farm produce, and now it is going to become “Project X,” which is the generic code name for a retail project. There is also road work coming up to accommodate the increase of traffic turning on and off Hwy 31 connected with the new high school. “Project X is going to bring some huge opportunities,” Mayor Ronnie said.

“Project X” isn’t the only thing going on. “Project Y,” which is going to be located “somewhere on Hwy 72 near the interstate,” is also an important retail project that Athens has landed after a lot of hard work. With all the growth that is going on, there

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is always the concern for public safety. “People need to be careful crossing 72 on foot to get to Popeye’s,” the mayor said.

We talked about personal development, which we always do, and the fact that the word “transparency” has become a buzz word in our culture that sometimes has gotten fuzzy.

Nevertheless, the mayor said, “Transparency of self has to precede transparency of government,” and I agree. We discussed the election that was going to be happening the next day, and expressed hope that people would get how important it is and would show up to vote. The time flew by, and it was time to pray. We started out by praying for our president, moved on to kids that are in trouble, and the mood of our country.

Then it was time once again for Ronnie to roll.

July 20 - August 2, 2018

Slinkard On Success

Choices, Choices, And More Choices

by D. A. Slinkard

D.A. Slinkard is the manager of the Athens Staples store What kind of attitude are you going to have today? Are you going to be productive? Are you going to be friendly? Are you going to be grumpy? How is your day going to go? In all walks of life we have people with positive attitudes, and we have people with negative attitudes; and I am oftentimes asked what makes the difference with me and my attitude. My reply is always the same, it is by choice. My answer is actually the same for everyone in that your life will go exactly how you choose it to be.

I understand that bad things will happen to everyone. There will be valleys and there will be mountaintops for everyone reading this article; but the real question is “What choices will you make when you are faced with a low and a high?”

Your mindset and wellbeing is dependent upon the choices you make.

Every day you must choose to be the person you want to be.

If you do not want to be negative, then simply choose not to be negative. If you want to have a good day, then simply choose to have a good day. If you want to be productive, then simply choose to be productive.

Whatever it is you want to be in life, then simply choose to be that. It is not rocket science. It is not something that cannot be done. Your success simply comes down

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to life, and start making better choices. The harder you work, the luckier you will get; and before you know it, there will be tons of opportunities for your success that were not previously there.

to making a decision.

Once you make that decision, then you must commit to your success.

I have had a lot of negative things happen to me in 2018, but rest assured, my mindset has not wavered from the mentality I must maintain daily. Our human nature leads us to have a negative mindset, but we must choose to be positive. Our human nature is to be lazy and nonproductive, but we must choose to work hard and become productive. Henry Ford is credited with saying, “If you think you can or if you think you can’t, either way you are right.”

We like to over-complicate things sometimes.

We tend to overthink the situations that do not need to be overthought.

We just simply need to make a choice and then do whatever it takes to achieve the desired outcome. Instead, we want to over-promise and under-commit to ourselves

when we should actually make a choice to commit ourselves to obtaining success. Too often we know what we need to do, know what actions need to be taken, but instead of doing what we know should be done, we make the choice to skip all the necessary steps in a rush to reach the desired outcome.

Success in life takes hard work, yet we live in a society in which too many people want things just given to them without the blood, sweat, and tears that success cost the generations before us. We live in such an entitled society that we give out trophies to everyone who participates, but what are we teaching the young?

No matter what choices you make in life, you can still be a winner, but the reality of life is going to come crashing down on many people who have been duped by the choices they have made.

that you have been making wrong choices? Have you even thought about the areas you need improvement in, or are you comfortable with just getting by in life? Too many people want a millionaire’s paycheck with a minimum-wage work ethic. It just will not happen until you change your mindset, your approach

You must make the choice, though, of what steps and efforts you are going to make today to impact your life tomorrow. The people who have success in life are doing so because of the choices they make on a daily basis. You can, too, but you are going to have to decide to take the first step. If it is important to you, you will find a way to accomplish your goals and dreams.

If it is not important, you will find an excuse for not achieving your goals.

Just know the difference between having and not having all comes down to the choices you make every day.

Where is it in your life

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Tourism

Athens-Limestone Alabama Is Thriving With Fun And Things To Do

by Cayce Lee Social Media Specialist, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association Things To Enjoy In Athens-Limestone Alabama The Athens Lions Club Kiddie Carnival continues operations until August each Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Fridays After Five and Singing on the Square with Dean will take over downtown Athens on July 20. Footlight Community Theatre takes to the stage of McCandless Hall at Athens State University on July 26, August 2, and August 4. The 42nd Annual Alabama Championship Tractor and Truck will set the ground to rumbling in Tanner on July 27-28.

An Alabama Veterans Museum fundraiser, “A Night to Celebrate” will be July 28. The Ardmore Police Reserve and Fire Rodeo will be hitting the dirt August 3-4. The tractors and farm history will come alive at the Piney Chapel Heritage Farm Days on August 3-4, on the Elkton Road festival

grounds.

For details about these and many more events, please take time to visit the events page of the tourism association at VisitAthensAL.com.

Alabama School Supply Tax Holiday It’s time for the annual Alabama School Supply Tax Holiday from July 20-21, giving families a tax break on much needed school supplies and clothing. For more information: revenue.alabama.gov/salesuse/sales-tax-holidays/

New Attraction Coming To Ardmore The Ardmore Veterans Museum will be opening in August at 26301 Hamlett Street in Ardmore, TN, featuring a curated collection of local veterans and their families. There will be no admission to tour the new museum, donations will be welcome. Further announcements about times and days of opera- 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday whiles supplies last.

Payment should be in cash or check. Checks payable to ALCTA or Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association with memo line: T-Shirt.

Medium to Extra Large are $15.00 and 2XL-3XL are $18.00. For more information: 256-232-5411

New Dining And Entertainment Venue Opens At Lucy’s Branch Marina Lucy’s Branch Marina, located at 6049 Bay Village Drive in Athens, has launched Lucy’s BARge featuring live music and their new restaurant El Patron. El Patron will be serving up a variety of Mexican food and your favorite alcoholic beverages.

Donnell House PastPort Tours

tion are coming.

Athens-Limestone Bicentennial T-Shirts Own a piece of the bicentennial! Athens-Limestone County Tourism is offering a limited number of Alabama 200-themed tshirts commemorating the community’s birthday.

Available in sizes medium to 3XL, the t-shirts can be purchased at the AthensLimestone Visitors Center, 100 North Beaty Street in Athens, from 8:00 a.m.

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The Donnell House has been chosen as a prestigious PastPort site by the Alabama Bicentennial Commission. Special tours will be held every Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to noon and every Thursday from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. through September at the historic home located at 601 South Clinton Street in Athens.

Built in 1845, it served as the headquarters for Union Colonel Ivan Turchin during the infamous Sack of Athens in 1862. No admission is charged, but donations are appreciated. For more information, call (239) 249-2211.

July 20 - August 2, 2018

PlayAction Sports

Local Sports Not Taking The Summer Off

by Tim Lambert

Tune in for the PlayAction Sports Update, three times each weekday on 1080 AM WKAC. Visit us online at www.pasnetwork.net!

email: playactionsports@hotmail.com The Limestone County School Board approved the hiring of new football coaches. Oscar Bonds was chosen to lead at Tanner while Michael Parker will coach at Clements.

Bonds was assistant coach at Piedmont while Parker was offensive coordinator at Hatton. They join P.J. Wright who was recently hired at Ardmore and Shelby Davis, who is the new West Limestone coach. Elkmont hired Eric Smith to helm the boys’ basketball team and Sam Wallace to lead the girls’ team. East Limestone assistant baseball coach Ryan Griffin transferred to West Limestone to become the Wildcats’ head man. James Clemens head girls’ basketball coach Amber Deline stepped down from her position and was replaced

by Capriee Tucker, who was previously an assistant coach at Hazel Green. Deline will continue as a teacher at the school.

Area football players committed to continue their sport at the next level. James Clemens' Jamil Muhammad and Daevion Davis both gave the nod to Vanderbilt, while Athens High's Kannon Biggs picked Troy.

Local athletes made AllState baseball teams: James Clemens' Collin Brown made the Class 7A first team. Athens High's Jacob McNairy was a 6A first teamer.

Nick Embrey of Ardmore was named to the 5A first

July 20 - August 2, 2018

team with fellow Tiger Jason Hogan making honorable mention. West Limestone's Drew Beddingfield was 4A honorable mention. Athens Bible School's Kenneth Adams and Cade Abernathy were tapped for the 1A first team. James Clemens' Lila Young was a 7A softball second team pick, while teammate Sarah Simon was honorable mention. Ardmore's Sydney Hall and Karla Hice were tapped for the 5A first team, with Bo Riley and L.B. Smith making honorable mention.

West Limestone's Raegan Clem was named to the 4A first team. The 3A first team included Elkmont's Haven Kirby; the Lady Red Devils' Autumn Davis was placed on the second team. Tanner's Audrey Henderson was a 2A honorable mention selection. Tanner's David Pizano and Tyler Keenum were picked for the 1A-3A boys’ All-State soccer team. James Clemens' Nicole Guay and Kaley Arnett made first team of the 7A girls' AllState soccer team while teammates Lily Wright and Hannah Smid made second team and Rachel Bradberry was honorable mention. East Limestone's Stefani Fleagle made 4A-5A second team and Mariam Villamonte was honorable mention.

Elkmont's Bailey Webb was tapped for 1A-3A first team and Claudia Allen made honorable mention. Tanner's Areli

2018 Athens Gators Mendoza was a second team member and Corina Martinez was honorable mention.

At the Alabama State Games, the Tanner varsity boys’ soccer team made it all the way to the finals where they fell to Guntersville 5-0 in the high school varsity division. The E3 Elite defeated Southern Tennessee United FC 2-1 in the finals of the Under 19 Girls Red division. The Rocket City United 01 beat Phantoms 01 Blue 3-0 in the Under 19 Boys White division. The Comets 03 took the silver in 16U softball, while the Madison Mayhem 01 finished 3rd in the 18-year-olds.

James Clemens grads claimed gold at the games in swimming – Christina Tarsitano won the girls’ 15-18 50-yard freestyle,

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50-yard breaststroke and 100-yard freestyle while Eric Messer was first in the boys ‘15-18 50-yard freestyle and butterfly and the 100-yard individual medley and freestyle.

In track and field, Vada Samuels was first in the 17-18 girls’ 100-meter dash. Zach Meadows and Travis Pepper won the 35-39 Male division in the men's doubles pickleball competition.

The Athens Gators swim team started their season in June defeating Marshall County and followed that up with a victory over Lawrence County and a win against Shelbyville. The Gators fell short to Fayetteville, but beat Florence.

Former Athens High golfer Michaela Williams tied for third with an even-par

71 to qualify for the U.S. Women's Amateur. The upcoming junior at the University of Tennessee was one of seven that advanced to the championship scheduled for next month. Williams’ younger sister, Ally, a rising senior at Athens, wound up in a tie for second at the Alabama Girls State Junior Championship in Montgomery and made it as far as the semi-finals of the Alabama Women's State Amateur.

The 14-year-old Limestone Hammers beat Madison, Huffman and 78 West twice to win the Dizzy Dean state baseball championship. The Hammers advanced to the World Series in Southaven, Mississippi; look for results on our Facebook page and in next month’s column.

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Clean and Green

Change is Coming – Notes For Responsible Recycling

by Lynne Hart Executive Coordinator - Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful

KALB and our AthensLimestone Recycling Center appreciate responsible recyclers! If you are one, please accept our sincere “Thank you” for taking the time not only to recycle but to recycle correctly.

items, such as grills, metal bed frames, electronics, etc., to the center on Lucas Ferry Rd. and not leaving them piled up at the community collection center trailers.

For those who are not sure if you are recycling correctly, here are a few examples:

If you do all the above, we appreciate you! If you are making an effort to learn the

• Making an effort to recycle only #1 and #2 plastics.

who are careful to recycle #1 and #2 plastics only. We currently DO NOT accept plastics #3-7. Often these non-recyclable plastics along with other items, such as pool liners, vinyl, Styrofoam/plastic coolers, and molded plastics, take up precious space.

This also causes additional labor and expense to the

the Community Collection Centers located at schools and other locations across the county, please be aware that compartment labels will change. Please take time to check the signs on each bin or compartment to be sure you are recycling the correct items in the correct bins/ compartments.

When told that we do not accept any paint, the man’s reply was, “Well what do you want me to do with them?”

My questions would be, “What do you want us to do with them?”

Please do not use the recycling center to get rid of items you don’t know what to do with. If you have questions on how to get rid of certain items, contact KALB. The answer, in some cases, is to wait until the city and county provide a household hazardous waste collection, but in other cases such as with latex paint, there are ways for you to dispose of it properly.

Final Thoughts KALB and the AthensLimestone Recycling Center staff are grateful to all who take the time to recycle. We extend a HUGE thank you to all who take time to recycle the right way.

Community Collection Center Piney Chapel • Educating yourself so you know what is and is not accepted for recycling locally. You can do that by visiting www.KALBCares.com and clicking on the Recycling tab, or calling the center at 256-2338746.

recycling ropes, we appreciate you, too.

Plastics Overflow

• Checking both sides of the community collection trailers for appropriate compartments.

Ruby McCartney, Recycling Center Plant Manager, is aware that the plastics compartments on the community collection center trailers and bins at the recycling center fill up quickly and sometime overflow. In an effort to correct this problem, changes are being made. Bins and compartments are being cleaned, painted and relabeled to allow for more room for plastics.

• Bringing large recyclable

We very much appreciate all

• Taking time to read the labels on the recycling bins or on the recycling trailers and using them correctly.

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center as these items have to be sorted out and discarded.

Because of this, the center’s dumpster has to be emptied every single day. These dumpster costs add up to about $6,000 per year! This is precious funding that could be used to upgrade our facility and equipment, and is a totally unnecessary expense when most could be placed in someone’s household trash can.

Please Be Aware When recycling at the center on Lucas Ferry Rd. or one of

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It’s pretty amazing how many people come into our recycling center and ask if we would take their items, knowing they are not on the list of accepted items. For example, a gentleman came into the center one day and said, “I know your sign says you don’t accept paint, but I have these nearly full cans of paint. Will you take them?”

Recycling is important to protecting our local and global environment. It is the right thing to do. We are making a positive impact, thanks to the many responsible recyclers in Athens and Limestone County.

Future generations are counting on us.

Become a Fan

(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com July 20 - August 2, 2018

Cooking with Anna

Grandmother’s Ice Cream "Salad"

by Anna Hamilton

As a child, visiting my grandmother’s house was like visiting a museum of wonder. There were two living rooms. One with a large comfy sectional, complete with a round sofa. The other all white and gold – so pristine, fancy, and reserved for only when she was entertaining guests or when we were all dressed in our Sunday best. She had a playroom with a large pool table, a bouncy horse (whose beautiful mane I ruined with a brush, but that’s another story) and a long couch decked out in Alabama hound’s-tooth printed fabric.

My grandmother was fancy. She never had a hair out of place. Her clothes were always spotless and beautiful.

During church, we would hold hands, and she would let me wear her rings. I also got to play in her purse; she had a gold change purse that was my favorite. It was a gold mesh material, and I can still smell the metallic way it left your hands smelling.

We loved getting to spend the night at my grandmother’s and playing there. At her house we got to play with our cousins, eat her delicious homemade biscuits and fried chicken, and climb the giant magnolia in the back yard. It was a simpler

time, a time that I wish I could go back to, and a time I cherish. You see, my beautiful, fancy, sweet grandmother is gone. She is still herself physically, but the devastating effects of Alzheimer's have taken her.

Alzheimer’s is a terrible disease. It robs a person of not only their memory, but it robs the family as well. If you aren’t careful, you could dwell on the horrible parts of this disease.

As a family, we are striving to focus on the positive, remember the good, remember the fancy.

Food can hold so many pleasant memories; it can be what links us to another person, another place, or another time.

Every time I have a fluffy, buttery biscuit or a crispy piece of fried chicken, I think of my grandmother. Another recipe that will always belong to my grandmother is Ice Cream Salad.

There is nothing “salad” about it! It is full-on decadence, full-on fancy, full-on delicious.

It combines salty and sweet, and is the perfect thing to cool you off during these hot Alabama evenings. I hope you enjoy this salad and be sure to serve it on your best china. Be fancy!

Ice Cream Salad

What You Need:

2 sleeves Ritz Crackers ½ cup butter, melted ½ quart ice cream (grandmother always used vanilla) 2 small boxed instant pudding (vanilla) 1 cup milk One 8 oz. tub of Cool Whip

Directions:

Crush crackers and add melted butter. Mix well, leave out about ¼ of a cup, and layer in bottom of 9x13 pan; press down. Bake for 5-10 minutes at 350⁰F. Let cool completely. While your crackers are in the oven, set your ice cream on the counter to thaw a bit.

With a mixer combine ice cream, pudding, and milk for 2 minutes or until well combined. Fold in Cool Whip. Pour over cracker crust. Take reserved cracker crumbs and sprinkle over top. Refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight.

July 20 - August 2, 2018

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The Millennial Mind

Culture’s Chronic Anxiety Problem

by Rosemary Dewar

A lack of patience weaponizes bitter anger. Those that stir up fears of scarcity and jeopardy attempt to lead the next revolution. Most epiphanies are meant for the individual to live out for themselves. Bringing down a society in order to facilitate one’s subjective ideal is nothing short of tyranny.

If the desired outcome is lasting improvement, it will take merciful endurance.

Not only are there those who want to convince you of imminent calamity, they want to be the ones to persuade you that they are the only answer. It is possible that the ones who claim they are trying to save you are also orchestrating the disorder in the first place.

That sense of urgency can easily be alleviated with a willingness to wait. Elements of tension, suspense, and drama are what people use to emotionally con the viewer. The ability to wade through that is a valuable commodity.

When someone discovers a new method or process that makes one’s life easier, sometimes that revelation is meant for that person alone. Once that one person tries to persuade others through force, the good that could come out of it is extinguished. Leading by example is difficult because you have to live it out. Time has to be invested, and more than you anticipated most of the time.

Similar to an episode of the TV show Shark Tank, investors ask, “How long have you been in business?” or “How many units have you sold?” or “What have you personally invested?” The audience never feels bad for the guy that expresses skepticism and scolds the investors for “missing out on a big opportunity.” If what someone has to offer is beneficial, and people find a need for it, it will be appreciated enough to be distributed.

Granted, people in history

made decisions that hindered advancement. They also allowed their inner drama and anxiety to form conclusions that harmed their communities.

British author, James Allen said that, “Men are anxious to improve their circum-

stances, but are unwilling to improve themselves; they therefore remain bound.” It is simply impossible to advance one without the other.

If too anxious, men will destroy their neighbors before changing anything. Ruthless leaders have done that for centuries. Their ideals will bring millions to slaughter before others deliver them out of that thinking. It is no different than the Bolsheviks and the Mensheviks; they both had rash ideas about “improving” their way of life. They were both gravely wrong.

The Judeo-Christian perspective states that we are to “not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself,” as well as “do not [worry] because of evildoers, or be envious of the wicked.” Maliciousness eventually destroys itself without your help. Those that squander their wealth will lose it soon enough.

Waiting out the storm is es-

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sential most of the time. It is strenuous and uncomfortable, but those behind you will value you for doing so. Many will depend on it, and that type of experience is rarely ignored or needless. Lessons are long, and they are to be endured. Many will try to cheat it, change the rules, and deprive you of your investment; however, their success will be short-lived and diminished.

Those that promise “a leveled playing field,” or “give you the wealth that is ‘rightfully’ yours” are lying, and are willing to violate your community to satisfy you. There is nothing to be gained from empty assurances. Revolutions that demand blind submission and emotional coercion have ended gruesomely.

Take your time. Society is counting on those that can suffer properly, not needlessly.

July 20 - August 2, 2018

Cover Story

The 2018 Women’s Resource Center New Hope Dinner: An Evening With Ryan Dobson

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

of Focus on the Family. I am old enough to remember going to a parenting class produced on VHS tapes back in the early ‘80s when I was a new mom. Dr. Dobson talked about the clearly cherished and infamous Ryan as being, shall we say, “strongwilled,” and I laughed, as well as heaved a huge sigh of relief. It seemed that God had blessed us with a fiery redhead boy who broke the mold, and Ryan Dobson had done the same for his folks.

Even as a toddler, Ryan gave me hope, and of course he didn’t know it.

Ryan went on to become a key member of the Focus on the Family team, Family Talk, and then launched his own ministry. He has become the leader of an organization called Rebel Parenting, has written a book called Wanting To Believe: Faith, Family, And Finding An Exceptional Life, has podcasts, and a Facebook page.

He also does a great deal of public speaking. Hearing his own father, Dr. James Dobson, tell about Ryan’s gift for speaking at crisis pregnancy center fundraising events, such as the one we will have here on August 11, brought tears to my eyes as I listened to the broadcast.

Ryan will tell us of his era of “pushing the envelope,” as well as the importance of what Women’s Resource Center Director Brooke

July 20 - August 2, 2018

Thompson calls “life-affirming choices,” which I will explain in a moment. The following is from Wanting To Believe: “Like many adolescents, Ryan pushed the limits on his parents’ boundaries, seeing just how far they’d stretch. He questioned their faith, their rules, their values, and their “truth,” determined to sort out life for himself. The journey wasn’t a pretty one, but it was beneficial in the end. Because once Ryan held up his parents’ core principles to the intense gaze of scrutiny, he discovered how right they’d been.”

With a great deal of humor and the wonderful ability Ryan has to tell his story, we will be inspired to support one of the most important nonprofit organizations in our area, the Women’s Resource Center. Brooke Thompson became the director earlier this spring, and she also heads up the children’s ministry at Summit Crossing Church. We

met at the new facility, which is located at 727-D West Market Street in Athens. While the WRC is part of an organization called Sav-a-Life, its scope is greater than assisting those who are facing crisis pregnancies. Brooke told me, “We want to come alongside families to help them make life-affirming decisions, offer support, and help with parenting.”

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Brooke went on to tell me her own story, and how she became involved in the pro-life movement. “It was many years ago, and we had a neighbor who had been told that tests had indicated the possibility of their unborn baby having birth defects, and it was suggested that they abort their baby. Our family encouraged their family to choose life, and they went on to give birth to a perfect baby girl. She is now a teenager, and before they moved away, they thanked us for letting them know that they had options and for walking with them through that confusing time. They were also sobered by what could have happened if they had not had the support that enabled them to choose in favor of life,” she said. Having had the opportunity to help save a life

changed Brooke forever.

Brooke continued our time by educating me about the services offered by the Women’s Resource Center. There is confidential counseling, limited obstetric ultrasound, options education, pregnancy and parenting classes, healthy relationship and abstinence training, life education, post-abortive help, practical fatherhood, and spiritual support. They also have a 24hour hotline, and the number is 256-233-5775. The WRC has a “Practical Parenting” program, which helps you earn points for the baby boutique by watching the parenting course prepared by Heritage House. The boutique carries such items as diapers, car seats, and clothing, and is a real boon for new parents. The Women’s Resource Center has been able to move into a new site which makes it possible for them to help many more families in our area; and while they have made great progress in paying for the building, one of their goals for the August 11th dinner is to raise funds to help finish paying for the building.

The cost for individual tickets for the dinner is 50 dollars, and table sponsorships are available for $400. Music is going to be provided by Bradley Walker, and there will also be an auction. Sweet Thymes is catering the meal, and we hope to see you when the doors open at 5 p.m. on August 11. To purchase tickets, go to www.wrcathens. org, or call 256-233-5775.

Women’s Resource Center

727-D Street, Athens, AL 35611 256-233-5775 (24 hour hotline) Hours: Mon.-Thur. 9-1, Ultrasounds on Thursdays Page 15

Health and Fitness

High Blood Pressure

by Janet Hunt

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

As a fitness professional, I know blood pressure needs to be measured regularly and must be controlled. High blood pressure (HBP) is dangerous because it increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Untreated high blood pressure can lead to heart failure, kidney failure, peripheral arterial disease, and may enhance the likelihood of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Only 50% of people in this country with high blood pressure are diagnosed and treated, which increases our health care costs significantly.

High blood pressure means the pressure in your arteries is elevated. Blood pressure is the force of

the blood pushing against blood vessel walls. It is written as two numbers, such as 130/80 mm Hg. The first number, systolic, is the pressure when the heart beats. The second number, diastolic, is the pressure when the heart rests between beats.

High blood pressure usually cannot be cured, but it can be controlled.

High blood pressure has no symptoms. It is called the “silent killer.” Not treating high blood pressures is dangerous.

Who is at risk: • People that have family members with HBP

tive:

• African Americans

• Pregnant women

• People over 35

• Women who take birth control pills

• People overweight or obese

How to reduce HBP:

• People who are not physically active

• Lose weight, if overweight

• People who drink too much alcohol

• Follow the healthy” diet

• People with diabetes or kidney disease

• Limit alcohol consumption

“heart

• Take medication as prescribed • Become more physically active. Minimum recommended is 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week or 75 minutes of vigorous.

How to become more ac-

An inactive lifestyle is a risk factor for HBP, heart disease, stroke and more.

Inactivity also tends to add to obesity, which is another risk factor. If you are inactive and wish to start an exercise program, begin slowly and do something you will enjoy and you will continue. Talk to a personal trainer to get some suggestions. First, decide if you need someone to be accountable to. If not, perhaps you are one of the few that are self-motivated. If you like a social atmosphere, perhaps classes are a good choice. If you are totally new to exercise and need someone to be accountable to, perhaps you should consider working with a personal trainer.

For more information about fitness options, call Janet Hunt, an A.C.E. Certified Personal Trainer at 256-614-3530.

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July 20 - August 2, 2018

Cover Story

Kelly’s Studio Of Dance: It’ Always Been About Much More Than Dancing

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

than teaching precise dance technique to her students. She wanted to “grow more than dancers,” and that desire has only increased over the years. We had a rare chance to chat at length as her “kiddos” were participating in the 2018 KSD Dance Camp. When Kelly was growing up in the local dance community, they had dance camps, but she looked at me with a smile and said, “They were nothing like this. We told our parents that their kids would tell them that this is the best week of the summer!” Every year the summer camps have a theme, and this year’s was based on the award-winning film, The Greatest Showman. Kelly called it The Greatest Camp.

Every day they changed the focus slightly, and when we did our interview, the little ones were getting a chance to take supervised horseback rides in their tutus. They also did crafts, had lunch, danced, did tumbling, and played games; it has been so popular that this year they have run two camps.

Because it has always been Miss Kelly’s vision to teach her girls to live life well, she has a Bible study group for her 8 to 11-year-olds, as well as the older girls. She calls the group “Godly Girls,” and for the third year, Kelly’s Studio of Dance (KSD) was involved in the recent Serve Day, held on July 14. Serve Day is a global, once-a-year opportunity for churches and individuals to get involved in various

July 20 - August 2, 2018

award-winning studio, and earlier this year during competition season, they took an award for jazz choreography and contemporary choreography. They were also named the Top Dance Studio in the area competition held in Birmingham.

Kelly knows that her job is “to make your kids look the best they can.” That means a lot of practice, and having experienced teachers

community service “giveback” projects. The KSD girls and participating adults went to the Haven, a community service center that focuses on tutoring and is located in North Athens. “They cleaned, set up for Vacation Bible School, and played games with the kids in the neighborhood. We served food, and just hung with the

to help her dancers shine and grow.

Another new feature this year is the launch of an interactive, internet-based dance class that will occur several times throughout the season. Kelly purchased a projector that will make it possible for the students to see their instructor in Los Angeles, and the instructor will be able to see the dancers here in Athens. The instructor is none other than Nick Lazzarini, who was the winner of the first season of So You Think You Can Dance.

This would not be possible if KSD weren’t doing so well. “We are growing, and we want to grow for the right reasons,” she said. That has been, and always will be to “grow girls,” and guys, too; help them become a team; and then a family.

Kelly Nave Caribbean. Kelly did that when she was younger, and she knows it will be a great experience for everyone that goes. One of the things she always tells her girls is that wherever they go, they are representing KSD and Athens, AL. As a young girl and dancer, Kelly was taught, “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice,” and she expects all her students (as well as parents) to behave accordingly. No “dance moms” allowed! To me, that emphasis on character and teaching them how to live well while dancing well is proof once again that “it has always been, and always will be about way more

who are passionate about what they do, and committed to their girls and the school.

“We invest in, mold, and nurture young people,” Kelly said, “and we always see the beauty in each dancer.”

kids and their parents. It was a great day,” Kelly said.

So, let’s talk about the “dance” in Kelly’s Studio of Dance. KSD is a multiple

From July 21 through the 25, Kelly Studio of Dance will have what they call their Summer Intensive. Instructors from New York and Los Angeles are being brought in to level up the abilities and experience of the KSD crew, and because Kelly is able to make great contacts at dance “trade shows,” these are choreographers who have worked with names like Paula Abdul, Prince, Liza Minnelli and the Joffrey Ballet. Every year Kelly brings in experts

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Some of the students and their parents had the chance this year to go to New York, visit Radio City Music Hall, see the Statue of Liberty, eat amazing New York food, and dance. This year Kelly will take some families on a 4-day cruise to the Bahamas, and the girls will be part of the entertainment team for Royal

than dancing.” If this type of total dance experience is what you are looking for as you empower your child, KSD is starting back up for the 2018-2019 season soon!

You can go online to www. ksd-athens.com to get more information and register.

Hurry, though, classes will fill up quickly.

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Learning As A Lifestyle

The Path Toward Personal Authenticity

by Eric Betts Assistant Director, Curtis Coleman Center for Religious Studies and Ethics at Athens State University Too many in the workforce today are merely surviving or barely competing in the marketplace. There is so much more to life than the mundane day-to-day routine, yet few have discovered what is enjoyable and fulfilling. Are you one of those who are involved in a work week where Friday cannot come soon enough? Is Monday morning more of a dreaded prison sentence to you rather than another opportunity to do what you love? Are you one of those who cannot wait until the weekend so that you can really do the things that bring you happiness? Millions in the workplace feel as if they are trapped in an occupation that brings them money, but they feel that there is something more to their lives which is being neglected. They recognize that they have ability, skill, and education, but are not enthusiastic about their careers and what they are accomplishing.

How does one get to the place where they begin to look forward to Mondays in the same way that they have longed for Fridays?

What such individuals need most is to discover what success coaches have called “the path toward personal authenticity.”

Dan Miller, author of No More Mondays, says the following about why personal authenticity is so important for your life: The path toward personal authenticity can lead in many surprising directions. Yes, we do see physicians who left their practices to drive

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trucks, a former pastor who became an artist, and accountants who now have landscape businesses. But rest assured the application of authenticity does not always require a downward financial shift. In fact, quite often the opposite is true.

Miller points out that the most successful people who are enjoying their lives and have found fulfillment are those who have found what they are passionate about; their financial success flows out of doing what they are enthusiastic about.

In most cases, those who are engaged in tasks that they do not enjoy, are simply doing enough to get the task done.

dreams. Sometimes one has to separate their capabilities from their calling. Sometimes one has to separate what others would love for them to do from what they feel within themselves that they were designed to do.

Then there is Jason Brown, the former NFL standout who left a career making $37 million to become a sweetpotato farmer. What makes a person do something like this? He bought 1,000 acres and farms crops, including

Marcus Buckingham writes about Matt, the swimmer. Matt was a great swimmer in high school. He was forced into it by his parents and teachers. Matt won many medals and trophies for his high school swim Former NFL star team. However, there Jason Brown finds true was a problem which fulfillment in farming Buckingham pointed out; Matt hated swimming. Matt loved playing instruments in the band. cucumbers and sweet poEveryone around Matt felt tatoes. He says farming is that he should become a more fulfilling than sports. professional swimmer, but “My agent told me, ‘You’re Matt felt otherwise. His making the biggest mistake parents and coach sug- of your life,’” said Brown. gested that he do both, but “And I looked right back at Matt was convinced that he him and I said, ‘No I’m not. should pour everything into No I’m not.'” his musical development. According to the local Finally, Matt was allowed North Carolina CBS news to do what brought him en- affiliate, Brown had never thusiasm. Matt went on to farmed a day in his life; become an extremely suc- but he researched farming cessful and popular music by watching YouTube viddirector in California, and eos and getting advice from began to live his personal local farmers. He says his

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plan was inspired by God, and he plans to give away huge amounts of food to the needy. His success as a farmer is based on the enthusiasm that comes from finding his authentic self.

It is true that most will not change their careers entirely as did the NFL player; most are in careers that are not that far from their authentic selves. Brown’s authentic self was not an NFL player, even though he was successful; his authentic self

keep trying new things.

Dan Miller goes on to say: Look at what you most enjoy—what do you do with enthusiasm? Keep in mind that the word enthusiasm comes from the Greek en theos and literally means “God in us.”

You don’t have to be religious to realize that true enthusiasm is more than fun and games. It comes deep from within and connects us to what is meaningful and purposeful.

How does one know whether he or she is connected to their calling?

Miller declares emphatically, “If your work is boring, exhausting and monotonous, you are clearly unconnected to your calling.” (Dan Miller, No More Mondays.)

Therefore, in order to find that personal authenticity and enjoyable Mondays, there are five rules: (1) Do something every day that you enjoy?

Don’t wait until Friday.

(2) Try new things.

was found completely outside of his life’s path. The key is finding within one’s current career path the one thing that they will enjoy the most within their workplace, and do it with zeal and gusto. Others will try new things, discover something about themselves they never knew, find fulfillment in it, pour themselves into it, and reap a bountiful “harvest.”

One of the keys to finding your authentic self is to never be content, and to

(3) Seek to discover the thing within your career that connects with your calling and do it with enthusiasm.

(4) Be open to change.

(5) Focus less on what people like to see you doing and more on what brings you personal fulfillment.

When this happens, your Mondays will give you new energy, new excitement, unexpected levels of success, and new discoveries.

July 20 - August 2, 2018

The View From The Bridge

The Role Reversal…Are you Prepared For The Shift?

Jackie Warner

by Jackie Warner

Career Development Facilitator “Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters

You just start to understand who you are and the purpose you were meant for in this life, and then there comes another shift in your ideas and expectations for it.

This article is truly a tough one to write. We are given tools as a child to use for our future success. We are bathed, clothed, nurtured, and loved from the infant stages to adulthood by our parents, grandparents, and guardians. My question to you is “How did you use it for your life today?”

When I am speaking at youth group events, I often share statements with students as a way to encourage them to think beyond the present and look at what it will take to live tomorrow.

One thing I say to them is: “It is what you do today that will determine how you live tomorrow. So if you want to live well, you have to start making the right choices today.” As I continue my presentation, I share with the students that one day there will be a role reversal, and I ask them if they will truly be prepared to handle it.

July 20 - August 2, 2018

The role reversal I speak of is when parents are the ones that now have to be taken care of. I go on to ask the students if they will be prepared to take care of aging, elderly parents. Fast forward to 2018, and now I ask you, my audience, “Did you prepare for the role re-

the child and they are the parent - Dignity and respect are key 2. Understand that your parents are having a mind shift too, and this may be very upsetting and take time to absorb versal?” It is not easy seeing our parents age and need care and assistance, for it is difficult to see them start to fade, become frail, and sometimes helpless when it comes to their normal dayto-day routine. It becomes an emotional roller coaster for both you and your parent when the shift starts to happen. You start to ask

yourself: “How do I do this; am I mentally prepared, not to mention financially stable enough, to handle what may come next.

What physical and emotional support will be required? It is not an easy path to navigate; so if you have not started preparation then start now.

1. Remember you are still

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3. Be proactive: Talk to your parents about their wishes and needs 4. Have a serious conversation about finances, real estate, and business documentation 5. Keep your parent involved in any health and financial decisions to be made 6. Know what options

should be discussed, such as home health care, longterm nursing care, powers of attorney documents, and end-of-life wishes 7. Research and ask questions about available resources to help you navigate Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional Jackie Warner, Community Outreach Specialist Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com Check out upcoming events: http://thebridgeus.yolasite.com/

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Horse Whispering

Horses In Heat

by Deb Kitchenmaster How do we help our horses cope with the heat? Because NEIGH-BOR it’s HOT outside!

You’ve heard the saying “No Sweat,” right? Usually those two words mean “No problem.” This is not the case in the equine world.

When a horse is unable to sweat, he is unable to keep his internal organs and brain from overheating.

Horses cool themselves by sweating. The evaporation of sweat from skin has a cooling effect. High humidity becomes more challenging for coping with heat because humidity keeps sweat from evaporating as quickly, and horses are more prone to overheating in humid weather.

The appetite also decreases on hot days. Thin, young, or elderly horses are at high risk for losing weight during extended periods of hot weather. If you have a concern in this area, please go to my website www. corralconnections.com and click on NATURAL SOLUTIONS FOR PEOPLE,

PETS and HORSES. To the left you will see “for your horses,” scroll down to WEIGHT CHECK OIL. This oil is a tremendous source of omega fatty acids.

There are no hydrogenated fats or processed fats and is extremely palatable. Horses need “good” fats, also known as “calm” or “cool” calories. Good fats would be your omega fatty acids. In this oil are omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids. It is cold-pressed, not heat processed. If your horse needs to lose weight or maintain his current weight, give 1-2 ounces per day. If horse needs to gain weight, increase amount of oil. Just pour it over your feed.

Your 4-legged friend needs some relief from the hot rays streaming down from a cloudless sky, relief that comes in the form of a leanto or shade tree(s). If your horse is stalled, be conscious of adequate ventilation. A fan in your alleyway helps circulate airwaves also. Not all fans are appropriate for barn use. When buying a fan, buy one that is designed

for agricultural use. These fans have motors sealed up to prevent dust and dirt from interfering with the motor and starting a fire. The cords are heavier, also. One bite (horse, mice, or raccoon) to a cord can cause a short circuit and potential fire. Un-

plug fan when not in use.

One of the best ways to cool an overheated horse is to spray or sponge him with cool water. Immediately and continuously scrape off the water. A shedding blade is a great tool for this, using the smooth edge not the jagged.

This encourages evaporation. If you don’t scrape the water off, it could actually trap heat and make things worse.

normal amount of water when temperatures rise above 70⁰F. On the average, a thousand pound horse may drink eight to ten gallons of water a day.

When the heat is on, that same horse can consume sixteen to twenty gallons of water a day! Make sure your horse has plenty of fresh water daily. Remember the salt! Your horse needs to have access to lose, free-choice salt daily, especially in the heat. You can go to www.athensnowal.com to the Horse Whispering column dated May 18 – May 31, 2018, and read the article “PASS THE SALT, PLEASE” for more information about the importance of salt for your horse.

Happy trails to you! Your calendar is marked with horse shows and trail rides in the heat and humidity of a southern summer day. Trailer your horse in a “cool” trailer. That would be a horse trailer, white or silver in color. Studies show dark-exterior colored trailers can be 20-30 degrees hotter inside. Large windows and ceiling roof vents maximize airflow.

Let’s talk diet. It’s more difficult for horses to digest There’s another type of a and break down protein durhorse in heat but that’s a ing hot weather. Limit altotally different topic. We falfa and high protein feeds. can talk about that later. Be Provide pasture or good cool. quality grass hay. Now, let’s Your NEIGHbor, do the math. If combined Deb Kitchenmaster temperature plus relative humidity level meets or exCorral Connections ceeds 150⁰F, do not ride or www.corralconnections.com work your horse. Cheers!

256-426-7947 I’ll drink to that.

Animal B.E.S.T. practitioner Horses can drink twice their horsinaround188@gmail.com

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July 20 - August 2, 2018

Mental Health Minute

What Nursing Home Residents Want You To Know

by Lisa Philippart, Licensed Professional Counselor “Be kind; for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle.”

- Plato

Before I decided to open my own private practice, I had worked as a geriatric counselor in the nursing home setting. I was referred to clients who either had a history of mental illness and needed continuity of care or to residents who were exhibiting “challenging” behaviors. I was honored to work with these residents who displayed courage, humor, and intelligence as they neared the end of their lives. As we talked about their accomplishments and challenges and they shared their stories with me, I often thought about how many of their family members were missing out on spending time with their loved ones.

Tragically, I was sometimes the only “company” a resident would have, and this would break my heart. Over the years, I would ask residents what they would like visitors, family, staff, and friends to know about their situation, and what could make their lives better in the nursing home setting. This is my list of the most common suggestions that the residents shared with me:

tines. We have lots of time on our hands, and it helps to know that there is a plan for our day...even if it is only breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

appreciate your wiliness to treat us as fellow human beings. NEVER TALK TO US LIKE WE ARE CHILDREN!

3. We need to keep moving. We may complain about our aches and pains, but it becomes important for our sense of independence and overall well-being to know that we can still go where we want, when we want.

6. Ask before you help us.

Don’t assume you know what we want or that we want your assistance. And then listen to our responses.

You can’t possibly know what it is like to be in our shoes.

4. No kindness is too small.

For example, a resident asked me to open the blinds for her so she could look outside and enjoy the day.

She thanked me so profusely, that I always walked by her room to make sure she could look out her windows.

7. Don’t ask how we are unless you really want to know the answer. Actually this question is useless to us. It would be better to ask us how you can help us today.

We will give you an honest answer; so be prepared.

5. Look at us with respect, not pity. We can tell the difference. Please sit down when talking to us, so we are eye level. We are doing the best we can and would

8. What you see on our outside is different than what is on the inside. Our bodies may be falling apart, but our brains might be sharp as tacks. Conversely, our thoughts may be foggy, but

our bodies might be able to function just fine.

9. You will receive a much better response when you ask, rather than issue orders.

We have the right to say no.

And rather than argue with us, look for a compromise, or even better, let us have our way. Unless there is a safety concern, the battle is not worth the fight.

10. Words are almost as powerful as medication. We respond to both. If you want to see an immediate improvement in overall health, tell us we look nice, share a kind word, pray for us, or for a truly amazing transformation…sing! We will probably join in!

I learned so much from my clients and residents in the nursing homes...about suffering, about joy, about regret, about hope, and about life. I leave you with a bonus

thought…number 11 from a resident whom I cherished and admired. She would often get frustrated and lash out at others. She wanted us to know this: “Please leave your feelings of impatience or feelings of discomfort at the door, and just spend time with me. Your presence is enough. There will come a time when you will have to let me go. But until then, my being here is not about you.”

Take action: Visit a veteran’s home or nursing home through your volunteer organization.

Lisa Philippart is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who divides her time between her own private practice in Huntsville and providing personal counseling services at Athens State University.

1. We need something to look forward to. Your visit, no matter how short, makes my day. And please don’t tell me that you will be coming to see me, and then don’t show up. You think we don’t remember, but we do.

2. We like schedules and rou-

July 20 - August 2, 2018

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Medical Update

Tips For Talking About Alzheimer's With A Family Member courtesy BrandPoint content (BPT) - It's a conversation no family wants to have, but one that can be vitally important - talking to a loved one about memory loss or cognitive decline.

activities he once loved grew, so did Mary's concern. Eventually, Mary and the couple's adult daughter, Michele, decided to share their concerns.

Mary Foss of Eagan, Minnesota, said she knew it was time to broach this sensitive topic with her husband Darrell when she noticed he was having difficulty doing the home improvement projects he had enjoyed all his life.

"We just told him that something is not right and you need to see a doctor and figure out what it is," Foss said. "I thought maybe he had a mini-stroke or a brain tumor. We were shocked when the diagnosis came back as mild cognitive impairment, possibly Alzheimer's."

"Darrell would spend hours building and fixing things around the house it was his hobby," Mary said. "But it got to point where he was having trouble doing even routine tasks. He would get frustrated and soon began doing less and less.

I knew something was wrong, but dismissed it for a while."

As Darrell's retreat from

The Fosses' story is not uncommon. Talking about memory or cognition problems with a family member can be daunting for many families. Denial, fear and difficulty initiating conversations about this sensitive subject are common barriers.

"Alzheimer's disease is challenging, but talking

and companionship Let your family member or friend know that you're willing to accompany them to the doctor and offer your continuous support throughout the diagnosis process.

Darrell and Mary Foss about it doesn't have to be," said Ruth Drew, director of Information and Support Services at the Alzheimer's Association.

"Family members are typically the first to notice when something is not quite right and it's important to discuss these concerns and follow up with your doctor."

The Alzheimer's Association is offering these six tips to help families facilitate conversations about Alzheimer's and other dementias: 1. Have the conversation as early as possible - Addressing memory or cognition problems early offers an opportunity to identify the cause and take action before a crisis situation occurs.

2. Think about who's best suited to initiate the conversation - If there is a family member, close friend or trusted adviser who holds sway, include them in the conversation.

3. Practice conversation starters - Be thoughtful in your approach. For example, consider an open-ended question such as, "I've noticed a few changes in your behavior lately, and I wanted to see if you've noticed these changes as well?"

4. Offer your support

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5. Anticipate gaps in self-awareness - Someone experiencing cognitive decline may be unaware of problems.

Be prepared to navigate confusion, denial and withdrawal, as people may not want to acknowledge their mental functioning is declining.

6. Recognize the conversation may not go as planned - A family member may not be open to discussion.

They may get angry, upset or simply refuse to engage. Unless it's a crisis situation, don't force the conversation. Take a step back, regroup and revisit the subject in a week or two.

While receiving the diagnosis was difficult, Mary Foss said it also provided a path forward.

"As difficult as it was to receive Darrell's diagnosis, it provided an answer to what we're facing," Foss said. "We took a few days to grieve, but then we focused our attention on getting educated about the disease and what we can do to fight it. We are staying active and focusing on the things that are most important to us."

For more information, visit alz.org/6Tips or www.alz.org.

July 20 - August 2, 2018

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Mondays at 10am 1080 AM WKAC July 20 - August 2, 2018

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