Athens Now Al by Alabama Biz Finder

July 6 - July 19, 2012

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

Nina’s Place Home Furnishings: “Furniture With A Soul” By Ali Elizabeth Turner Back in 2009, while driving down Hwy 72 W near Dupree Worthey Road, I noticed a sign and some furniture pieces displayed outdoors that caused me to turn straight into the driveway of Nina’s Place Home Furnishings. Why? Because they had the unmistakable look of the substantive, artfully hand crafted, wood, metal, leather, stoneware and travertine home furnishings

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Shoe Gallery To Relocate To Courthouse Square By Ali Elizabeth Turner It has been a dream of Terri Dunn’s to have her charming boutique shoe store be located on the Courthouse Square. For much longer than anyone anticipated, the storefront located at 109 S. Marion Street in Athens has been undergoing painstaking renovation, and the effort, while quite intense, is going to be fully worth it. Continued on page 16

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Terri Dunn, owner of Shoe Gallery, and her husband, Dr. Jimmy Dunn at the entrance to the new location of Shoe Gallery II on Marion Street.

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July 6 - July 19, 2012

Publisher’s Point

Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

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

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . . 4 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 5 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . 6 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 7 Clean and Green . . . . . . . . 8

The Kindness Of Strangers I am just home from having made a difficult, but most memorable trip to Seattle. My sisters and I cleaned out the apartment of my mother who is struggling with Alzheimer’s, and got her settled in assisted living. It is indeed the beginning of “the long goodbye,” and it has been a good while since I have had such a tough week. But while it might be tempting to “kvetch,” (i.e. “fuss” in Yiddish,”) what I was struck by during my time in Seattle was the kindness of strangers. First there were the staff members at the care facility. They hailed from all over: Ethiopia, the Philippines, India, and the States, and their tender care of my mom helped me to relax. I knew she was in good hands. Then there was the crew who manned the front desk. They were the cheerleaders who treated each victory at getting one more piece of furniture moved and squared away like a touchdown at a ‘bama/Auburn football game. They even bent the rules a bit and allowed my son and me to move some pieces through the lobby out into his wait-

ing truck, rather than use the freight elevator and go out through the parking garage. There came one day, though, down toward the end of the

week where I “hit the wall,” as they say. My heart was breaking over having to watch my mom say goodbye to so many of her treasures because there simply was no room for them in her new location. Nerves were frayed, muscles were tired, tempers were short, and I needed a moment to “leave and grieve.” The facility, one of the finest in Seattle, was undergoing extensive remodeling, which is always a nightmare. I found what I

Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Lifelong Learning . . . . . . . . . 13 Cooking with Shelley . . . . . . 14 Cover Stories . . . . . . . . . 15-16 Medical Update . . . . . . . . . . 17

Health and Fitness . . . . . . 19 Security Savvy . . . . . . . . . . 23

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Director of Sales for the whole shootin’ match. “Are you alright?” she asked. I managed to croak out an “I will be.” She intently listened to my brief description of what was going on, and said the simplest thing: “This is very hard, what you and your family are going through.” All I could do was nod in agreement. And then she, a complete stranger, showed me kindness that gave me the strength and space to settle down and go get back into the fray. “Here,” she said, “Come into my office. I am going to be away for about 15 minutes, and you can have it all to yourself.” I let her lead me almost like a little child into my newfound “sanctuary,” and she closed the door and left. There I wailed and prayed. I thought of the caution-

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Dog Barker . . . . . . . . . . . 18

thought was nearly a secret passage where I figured I could let my tears flow without disturbing anyone, and wouldn’t you know it, I was discovered by the

ary tales all around me I was observing, and became more determined than ever to get my own life in order. I thought of the fact that at the age of 92, my mom’s days are limited, and how much I wanted to build the last part of my relationship with her on this earth. I wondered whether her mind would allow it.

Now, while Peggy, the Director of Sales probably has encountered someone in my temporary emotional state on several occasions, I am sure there is no place stated in the facility’s policy manual that she be required to let me use her office to have a come apart.( Hence, the subtitle of this Publisher’s Point: The Kindness Of Strangers.) While I intend to do my best to tell her what a difference her dear gesture made to me in that hour of great need, I don’t think Peggy will ever know on this side that her spontaneous kindness gave me what I needed to get through a uniquely rough spot, regain my strength, and get back to my post. She made me want to “pay it forward,” and by God’s grace, I will.

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

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All Things Soldier

Guerilla Gratitude by Ali Elizabeth Turner I had the great privilege of flying across country on July 4th. I had been in Seattle taking care of my nearly 92 year old mother, and while I didn’t get to go to any cookouts, play any horseshoes or watch any parades or fireworks, my celebration of Independence Day was nonetheless most satisfying. Why? Because since my time in Iraq I have engaged in an activity which I have called guerilla gratitude, and got to take my ‘tude out for a spin while beating feet to make my flights and connections on the 4th. What in the world is “guerilla gratitude?” It is the act, primarily directed toward soldiers, of making a point of getting out of one’s comfort zone and going up to a complete stranger in uniform and thanking them for their service. This is both easiest and toughest to do in airports: easy because everyone is out of their comfort zone, thus, there is a great equalizer, and harder, because the stresses of travel make it much more tempting to pull back into one’s personal cocoon. I have found, though, that virtually without fail, every time that I go out of my way to thank a soldier

for the military, and now takes every chance I can to say “thank you” gives me the opportunity to have brief, dear encounters with the most remarkable group of people I have ever met: our men and women in service to our country.

Maybe I’ll start a guerilla gratitude training camp. Maybe my next book will be entitled “Guerilla Gratitude.” (My publisher likes the title, and I did already purchase the online domain.) But my fondest hope is that you, dear reader, will be inspired to make “guerilla gratitude” a lifestyle. Our troops

for my freedom and personal safety the reaction is always worth it. I meet all types of soldiers: new ones, enlisted ones, officers, those who have had several tours in the Great Sandbox, ‘Nam vets, on it goes. I think that there has only been one time that my getting in their personal space has been met with less than full warmth, and it didn’t bother me a bit. You see, “guerilla gratitude” makes YOU into a warrior. How? Well, understand that the term “guerilla,” (which means

‘little war’ in Spanish,) is defined as follows: “a form of irregular warfare in which a small group of combatants including, but not limited to armed civilians use military tactics such as ambushes, sabotage, raids, the element of surprise, and extraordinary mobility…to strike a vulnerable target, and withdraw almost immediately.” Now, does that not describe what goes on in a “guerilla gratitude airport raid?” I, in my disguise as a late- middle aged grandma wannabe, sneak up on the unsuspecting soldier, ambush them through the element of surprise, sabotage the plans of those who seek to demoralize our troops by countering their offensive with gratitude, and “withdraw almost immediately” to the tram, the gate or the plane.

is. Is it great fun? Oh, yeah. To be someone who once upon a time had no respect

need it more than we can know.

Is it “highly irregular?” It

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July 6 - July 19, 2012

Calendar of Events Cruise In Jul 7 at 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM

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

Moon Observation 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM Jul 07, 2012

Come out and observe the moon with us! Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and just relax under the stars from 8:00-9:30 PM. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll bring the snacks! Please note: Our Moon Observation event will be cancelled if it is raining or cloudy. We will not reschedule the event.

Athens Cruise In on the Square Aug 4

Annual ASU Community Band Concert on the Square Aug 11

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

Miss Shining Star Pageant July 14 at 2:00 PM

The Onyx Senior 5 All-Stars invite you to participate in the Beauty Pageant which will be held at Round Island Creek Center, 13829 Lucas Ferry Road. Divisions will birth from birth to 18 years. Entry fee is $30 per contestant. Photogenic division optional for $5.00. For more information contact Marie Henderson 256-990-19069 or Kelly Cain at 256-874-4445. Winners will receive crown, sash, trophy and certificate for manicure and pedicure.

Singing on the Square Aug 17 at 6:00 PM

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

Ardmore Crape Myrtle Festival Aug 25

Singing on the Square July 20 at 6:00 PM

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

Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the free concert featuring Dixie Bluegrass Boys and Borderline Bluegrass

CASA Mud Volleyball Tournament Jul 21

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

AL Championship Tractor & Truck Pull Jul 27 & 28

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

Ardmore Police Reserve Rodeo Aug 3 & 4

AHS Band Cotton Classic Marching Festival Sep 12 at 11 AM

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

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

The quilt exhibition, vendors, silent auction, door prizes, boutique and bed turning will all be at the Athens State University Ballroom located at 300 N Beaty Street, Athens, AL. Admission for one day is $5.00 or two days $7.00. Hosted by PieceMakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Quilt Guild of Athens. Contact Sue Manley 256-233-5346.

Singing on the Square Sep 21 at 6:00 PM

Contact: 256-423-2146. Fee

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

July 6 - July 19, 2012

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

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

“Captain Kirk” And The Need To “Grow A City” by Ali Elizabeth Turner

Most folks are aware that in late June the City Council of Athens voted to appoint long time Fire Marshall Tony Kirk to the position of Fire Chief, a vacancy which was created by the recent retirement of Danny Southard. Tony, (who has had to endure being called “Captain Kirk” since he was a kid) was brought into our interview by Mayor Marks in order to introduce him to me as well as the community. Tony was born and raised in Limestone County, and has been involved in firefighting since 1984. He started out as a volunteer firefighter with the Oak Grove/Thach Volunteer Fire Department and told me that “back then all we had for equipment was a 1952 aircraft crash fire truck.” As any good soldier, they learned to fight well using the equipment that was available, and were not deterred from doing whatever it took to save lives and put out fires. Tony was hired by the Athens FD in 1986, and

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continued to volunteer as well. During his original interview he was asked, “Where do you want to be in 10, 15, 20 years?” His response at the time

was, “Chief, if I am qualified.” It took a little over 25 years, but that is exactly what has happened, and the nickname “Captain Kirk” has never been more fitting.

in Athens, to build more fire stations to accommodate our city’s growing population, to be out in the community more in order to foster trust, and to be able to hire more firefighters. (As of the date of this writing, there are two firefighter positions available with the Athens FD, and those qualified are strongly urged to apply. For his part, Mayor Ronnie had just come back from a statewide Mayor’s convention, and was pretty fired up, both by what he observed to be admirable, as well as encountering situations where there was

huge room for improvement. “We have several high level department heads that are going to retire soon, and we must begin now to find their replacements,” he told me. With specific regard to the Fire Department, Mayor Marks would like to see a part time paid reserve unit formed as soon as funds can be allocated to do so. He also rattled off several “take aways” from the conference. The one about which he was the most passionate was the need to be wise and avoid letting your town get stagnant. “People don’t like to think this way, but successful cities have in part become successful because they have learned

to market themselves.”

So how do you “market” a town” in order to keep people interested in living in it, travelling through it, and contributing to the well being of its citizens?” His answer, which did not surprise me at all was “refusing to grow stagnant.” I didn’t even bother to ask him, “How do you do that?” I already knew the answer: you seek to synergize, no matter what it costs you personally. Only by building relationships will we build our town. You do that, and the rest will take care of itself.

Chief Tony is close to completing his Bachelor’s degree in Fire Service Management, and found that the two classes which have benefitted him the most have been Tactics and Strategies, as well as the study of Building Construction. As Fire Chief he has several goals, and they are as follows: the formation of a complete fire training facility here

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Special Feature

Medical Massage: Great New Location, Same Professional, Compassionate Care by Ali Elizabeth Turner

Much has changed in the life of LMT (Licensed Massage Therapist) Wendy Couch since I last interviewed her. She is now happily married, and on July 1st had an open house at her practice’s new location just off the Square at 109 Marion Street in Athens, having moved from her previous location in the Lambert Law Firm building on Market Street. There was a great turnout, with “lots of tours and socializing.”

Indeed the new location is ideal. It is roomy, serene, has potential for expansion of services, and as soon as I put this paper “to bed,” I am going to make an appointment for a much needed massage. I am truly overdue!

For those of you who don’t know Wendy, I can say from experience that her knowledge of both massage and massage-related health issues, compassion and level of professionalism have been a blessing to me both professionally as a publisher, and personally as a woman who tends to store her tension between her shoulders. I have needed her skilled hands to “unravel those ropes,” and she has amply delivered.

Wendy is a native of Madison, and after 12 years returned to the area in 2010. She opened her first practice in Athens just after the tornadoes hit in April, 2011, and says “the people in Athens have been wonderful to me.” There are several things I have found endearing about this young woman in the time that we have been each other’s clients. First is

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her strong faith in Christ. She is someone who quietly prays for her clients while she works on them, knowing that even secular medicine has had to grudgingly acknowledge the power of both prayer as well as the “laying on

of hands.” Wendy, as is the case with many of us in Athens, sees her work as both a profession as well as a ministry, and I always enjoy her fellowship.

Aromatic candles and oils make the Medical Massage experience all the more therapeutic.

Second is that her rates are more than reasonable, and she is worth every penny. While she and I are both convinced of the truth of the biblical maxim which says On right is Wendy Couch, LMT, with her office assistant, Katherine Layne, on left.

that the “laborer is worthy of their hire,” she has a heart for people who normally would dismiss the idea of getting massage due to cost. She regularly has promotions, and clients need only to call to inquire. Wendy also offers full body scrubs, masks, and ionic footbaths, and uses only the purest of ingredients in her practice. She received her degree from Madison School of Massage in 2006, and is licensed to practice several types of massage, including deep tissue, trigger point and Swedish. She also practices medical massage and is trained in pain management. Prior to her worki n g in North Alabama, she was on the Army base located

Medical Massage’s new location just off the Square at 109 Marion Street in Athens

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at Ft. Riley, Kansas, and used her expertise in pain management to help our soldiers, for which I am deeply grateful.

Wendy, congratulations on your “new digs,” and we trust that your practice in Athens will only continue to grow and thrive!

Medical Massage Therapy

by appointment only

109 Marion Street Athens, AL 35611 Phone: 256-374-4127 Page 7

Clean and Green

The Three Rs: Radically Recycled Robots by Lynne Hart

cycled rather than tossed in the trash. Every one of these boys can now explain how to tell the difference between fer-

Tammy and me, but could not wait to begin building their own robot to take home! KALB would like to thank

Cub Scout Joshua Caffey Tammy Haymon, KALB’s Education Coordinator and I had the pleasure of manning one of the “stations” at Cub Scout Camp in Decatur recently. About 120 boys attended, including several from Limestone County troops. The theme of this year’s camp was metals. What better way to get a young boy’s attention, than by letting him build his own robot with

our Recycling Center, Electricfil in Elkmont, Don Wojtal, and Ruby McCartney for supplying the nuts, bolts, wire, bottle caps, Christmas tree ornaments, metal cans, fittings, screws, and an array of other treasures for this project.

As you can see by the photos, it was a great project with some very unique results!

a huge selection of “parts” from which to choose? Before the boys could begin building their robots, important lessons had to be learned about metals. Tammy presented a PowerPoint program and shared information about the types of metals, the mining process, and also the protection of natural resources and cost savings when these metals are re-

If you are interested in having KALB provide activities for a group, please call us. Tammy just loves to be with the kids. Ahem... and just wait until school is back in session and the kids get to hear us sing!

KALB Director Lynn Hart helps a scout with his robot. rous and non-ferrous metals and how they are separated when they are recycled. The lesson was like eating your vegetables because it’s required to get dessert. The boys patiently listened to

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(256) 233-8728 KeepALBeautiful@att.net

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Jerry’s Journal

The Trip To Aliceville by Jerry Barksdale

Tired of the hustle-bustle urban life in Athens? I recommend a therapeutic day trip to tiny Aliceville in Pickens County, Alabama where life is slow and folks are friendly. Recently I accompanied Athens residents Bill Ward and Jerry Crabtree there to visit the Aliceville Museum, touted as “Home of the Largest World War II German POW Camp Collection in the U.S.” Bill, a board member of the Alabama Veterans Museum, is a native of Pickens County. Jerry Crabtree is President of the Veterans Museum, and a retired Athens cop. I soon learned that when Bill Ward is driving, having a cop onboard is mighty handy.

We departed Athens at 7 a.m. and drove to Moulton, where I hoped to have a fine breakfast to sustain me during the 3-hour drive. When we headed down scenic Alabama 33, (that meanders through Bankhead Forest,) my stomach growled in protest. There would be no breakfast. At Double Springs, a blue and white cruiser did a U-turn, and flashed on blue lights.

“Sir, you were doing 65 in a 35,” the young cop said, pulling out his ticket book.

“Yes sir, I’m awfully sorry,” said Bill apologizing. I’ve never witnessed such boot licking in my life, but it worked!

“Well, I’ll just give you a warning ticket,” the cop finally said.

That’s when Jerry Crabtree flashed his cop card and the officer wilted like a vampire before a cross.

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“Ya’ll have a nice day,” he said, and we sped off. “Just professional courtesy,” quipped Crabtree. My stomach growled. “I’m hungry.” “After touring the museum we’ll eat at the Plantation House in Aliceville,” Bill said. “It’s a fine place.” A hungry man doesn’t care how fine a restaurant is; he wants food, now! Bill pulled

adults, Military and students.

in at Barbara Ann’s place, a logger’s hangout. While he pumped gas, I gouged down a giant chicken biscuit. My stomach stopped complaining and converted into a grease trap. At Carrollton, we stopped at the courthouse to see “the face in the window.” According to Bill, after being arrested for burning the courthouse in 1876, Henry Wells was placed in the garret of the newly-built courthouse for safe keeping from a mob. While looking out at the mob, lightning struck

and imprinted his likeness on the glass. I didn‘t believe it. We stood in the middle of the street in a rain shower looking up. “Look!” said Bill. “Do you see it?” “Well, I’ll be doggone,” I said, seeing a face. Whether it was Henry Wells, I can’t say, but the face is there.

After Rommel’s proud Afrika Corps crumbled before British forces advancing across North Africa in 1942, 6,000 German POWs arrived by train in tiny Aliceville on June 2, 1943. There they were confined behind barbed wire on 400 acres. The Geneva Convention was strictly followed. Officers didn’t work, and, if the enlisted men chose to work outside the camp, they were paid 10₵ an hour. They were fed foods that many Americans couldn’t obtain because of rationing. Peanut butter on white bread, some-

thing that they had never heard of, was their favorite. The POWs organized an orchestra, produced plays and concerts, wrote poetry, and promoted the arts. The walls of the museum display drawings, portraits and paintings, and in the courtyard are three sculptures. The museum is also chocked full of American military memorabilia, and for the record, Pickens County boasts two Medal of Honor recipients. Remarkable!

Finally, Bill decided it was dinner time and took us to the Plantation House, a roomy, two-story former family home that has been converted into a restaurant. A salad bar and large buffet of fried chicken and such made the waiting worthwhile. The museum is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4p.m and by appointment on Saturday. The Plantation House is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

So, get out of your rut and visit the Aliceville Museum. Remember, there is no Cracker Barrel in Bank Head Forest and don’t dare speed in Double Springs – that is, unless you have a cop card! A plate of fried chicken at the Plantation House will make your trip worthwhile.

At the Aliceville Museum, housed in a 1940’s CocaCola bottling plant, we were welcomed by a friendly brunette named Bobbie Renee Unruh, its Director. By the way, admission is only $5.00 for adults, and $4 for senior

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Tourism

It’s Time To Get Muddy! By Jeanette Dunnavant, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association

As kids, we all loved to get muddy. Now adults love it as well – at least they do at the annual CASA Mud Volleyball Tournament.

11th. If you register by July 2nd, you will receive a t-shirt. Registration is $15 per play. Each team must have a minimum of eight members and two of those must be females. Spectators are admitted free. If you’ve never attended one of the tournaments, this year would be the perfect time to go and support your favorite team. Don’t get too close to the net; you will get muddy! However, mud washes off and

you’ll enjoy every minute of the games. For more information about the tournament, contact 256-777-1038. For information about this and other Athens-Limestone County events call 256-232-5411/256-867-1438 or visit our website www.VisitAthensAL.com.

This year the Care Assurance System for the Aging and Homebound (CASA) is hosting their 24th Annual Volleyball Tournament at Swan Creek Park beside Athens High School on July 21st beginning at 9:00 AM. It’s time for teams to register to compete. About 90 teams compete each year and raise about $8,000 for the agency. The deadline to enter is July

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July 6 - July 19, 2012

Learning As A Lifestyle

Growing by Wanda Campbell

I am so excited and I can’t wait! We have three bushes that are loaded with green tomatoes, and you would think I had never been in a garden before.

We had gardens in a lot of places when I was growing up. I was never responsible for the planting or caring for plants; Mom and Dad did that. I did not have to pick much because I was allergic to most of the

fried. The field peas were the worst, no matter which way they were cooked. Canning and freezing were not my favorite work, and fortunately, I did not have to do it often. Gardens were a lot of work when I was a kid even though I only did a little bit of it. Once I got married and moved away from home, there was not much time to think about gardens.

said to do. It did not matter. Within two weeks my plant of the month died. I am not talking droopy leaves, wilted died; I am talking all the leaves falling off, black stalks died. You could hear plants coming to my house crying before they ever got there. They knew their fate. So how did I get three

I will probably get someone else to do this part too, just to be sure my bad gardener cooties don’t get on them. I will just look and enjoy the fruits of everyone else’s labor.

plants. My eyes swelled up and I “got itches,” so I could wait by the car while everyone else worked the garden.

I did love the food that came out of the garden though, especially homegrown tomatoes. I would eat okra if it was fried real hard, and green beans were okay. The corn was great, as was shucking ears when they were picked. I was not as fond of squash or zucchini, unless they were dipped in cornmeal and

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We had four kids, and both of us worked most places we lived. There were lots of reasons not to have a garden. The biggest reason, though, was that I had a black thumb. In the early ‘90s I got a subscription to Plant a Month Club. A nursery would send me a new plant every month with instructions for how to care for the plant. I would put the plant in full sun, partial sun, lots of water, no water – whatever the directions

Knowing your limits is part of learning. Knowing how to delegate is learned, too. That’s how you get three bushes full of tomatoes.

bushes full of tomatoes? That was easy. I used the pots my mom used to grow her garden last year. Mom can grow sticks so I knew the pots had absorbed good gardener vibes. And, I let my granddaughter, Christina, plant them. She is only 12, but she likes to plant things. I asked my sons to water and feed them. Ben is very into organic gardening and how things work, so he was willing. Brian just likes to help out. That leaves picking them.

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Cooking with Shelley

Really good “Cheesecake” ~ Compliments of Riley by Shelley Underhill

Athens Now readers... I would like you to meet Riley, in this issue we will share some memories made in my kitchen this past week. I must say, Riley and I out did ourselves with this recipe. We took your basic cheese cake recipe and added a little more of this and took out a little more of that. The recipe that follows is the outcome of our maken’ memories in the kitchen cheese cake. I encourage you to take time this summer and make this recipe with someone special to you. You will not regret the outcome. I also want you to be on the lookout for the next issue of Athens Now, where I will share

my momma’s Green Tomato Cake recipe and the story that is behind it. So save some of your green tomatoes from your garden; your gonna need um.

Send your questions and recipes to shelleysdesk@gmail.com. Enjoy!

What you will need: Crust: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs 1 & 1/2 sticks real butter - melted Combine butter and crumbs together, mixing well. Press crumb mixture into pan, make sure you to press crumbs up the sides of the pan, about 1/2 way - press into 9`inch “well greased” Springform pan.

Topping: 1 pack of cream cheese 1 cup powdered sugar Combine the two and mix well with mixer.

Cheesecake filling: 4 8-oz. packs of cream cheese - room temp. 1 cup sugar 2 tablespoons flour 1/4 cup milk - room temp. 3 eggs- room temp. 1 tablespoon Vanilla 1 teaspoon lemon Combine all together and mix well with mixer until you get a satin finish. Pour into graham cracker crust. Place on cookie sheet with sides, sometimes butter will seep. Bake on 350 for one hour - let rest 15 minutes, then eject from pan. Let cool and cover top with icing. `We placed ours in the fridge over night. We garnished it with kiwi and fresh plums.

Fresh fruit to garnish - optional.

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Cover Story

Nina’s Place Home Furnishings: “Furniture With A Soul” by Ali Elizabeth Turner

continued from page 1

things that make all the hard work involved in selecting and importing furniture so worth it is the joy she feels when someone finally sees the thing that they had lost hope of ever finding in a chain store or anywhere else. She also has helped give several local interior designers their start by employing them in the store, and loves it when they come back “home” with a client who is genuinely delighted in what is available.

and décor that I had come to love so dearly while living and working with my husband at an orphanage in Juarez, Mexico. I was most definitely on a sentimental journey, and my joy has only increased since then by getting to know “Nina,” (whose real name is Melinda Freeman,) and learning of her heart to help, her spirit of adventure, and her tea cup Chihuahuas, Kitty and Kali, whom, she says, “are part of the store.” Melinda, (who picked up from her brother the nickname “Nina” when they were still small kids,) has done everything from helping to manage her family’s electronics brokerage business, to living for several years in Guadalajara, Mexico, to being involved with supporting international adoptions. She did what so many Athens Now customers have done: defy conventional wisdom and start a business in the middle of a recession, and the result is a place where it is not at all uncommon to have someone walk in for the first time and say, “This is just what I have been looking for!” Her love of rustic home furnishings goes back to her childhood in California, and she loves to think of it as “furniture with a soul.” The furniture comes from Puebla, Guadalajara, and all over Mexico. “Some of the reclaimed and primitive pieces are actually made in people’s living rooms,” she told me. People, I might add, that she has come to know

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personally. The artisans who work with copper and travertine, (a type of stone whose composition is somewhat similar to limestone) have been at it for years, and the excellent level of craftsmanship has remained unchanged. Melinda is a big fan of radio talk show host Dave Ramsey, who has helped many families be-

“in the black.” “We do not operate in a negative cash flow,” she says, and as a result, she has an uncommon level of flexibility when it comes to selecting the pieces that fill Nina’s Place. She also is able to steer clear of the usual level of price mark up in which many furniture dealers routinely engage. come debt free through common sense, biblically based financial strategies, and Nina’s Place is happily

“Every piece in here I have picked, and I love,” she told me. She also indicated that one of the many

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Nina’s Place makes a point of carrying the work of several local artisans, and does cross promoting of their work with other outlets. Melinda, as do I, believes that “there is enough to go around.” In addition, due to the fact that her “passion is antiquing,” she has a real knack for finding treasures here in the South where so many regions have been picked over. Recently she found a rustic mantle that had come from a cabin in Kentucky, and once again, a couple who wanted something out of the ordinary was thrilled when they saw it. Nina’s Place carries excellent quality unfinished furniture, and will custom finish pieces to suit the client’s exact needs. They also specialize in painting furniture with the current interior color trends for which Mexican décor is so well known, and “if you bring in the paint, (and the

piece you purchased has an unfinished surface,) there is no charge for painting or distressing it,” she added. Someone who was going through an intense time of p e r s o n a l crisis distressed her own piece of furniture, and found it positively therapeutic! Hmmm, a new take on “anger management?!”

Nina’s Place has a hope and a vision for their future in the Athens area. The business is doing well, they are planning on having classes on refinishing furniture and other teaching venues, are passionate about giving back to the community, and the hard work is paying off. Come to Nina’s and enjoy the fruit of their labors, and explore a home furnishing store where their motto is, “We don’t carry a brand, we make it by hand.”

Nina’s Place

30175 US Hwy 72 Madison, AL 35756 256-233-5720 256-233-5718 FAX www.ninasplace.biz www.facebook.com/ pages/ninasplaceal Hours: 10-6 Tue-Sat, 12-5 Sun, closed Mondays Page 15

Cover Story

Shoe Gallery To Relocate To Courthouse Square by Ali Elizabeth Turner

continued from page 1

Wayne Kuykendall, the owner of the building and the visionary behind its renovation, has paid scrupulous attention to every detail of the project, and many times when I have been doing Saturday deliveries of Athens Now I have seen him “knee deep” in the work. For those who know Wayne, who is a lifelong resident of Athens, it is no surprise that he knows so much about the building and is totally committed to its restoration. He told me a bit of its history. It has been everything from an alley way to a restaurant to a sewing store. The reason it is so long and narrow is that it originally was the space between two buildings, but the “shotgun” shape is perfect for a boutique. The rough brick walls give a warm, homey feel, and the unusually high ceilings give the place a sense of space and light. The tile work at the threshold is accurate to the period, as well as the overhead lighting and the opaque tile work that makes up the transom. The original floors were too far gone to use, but Wayne found some old ones from another building, had them refinished, and they are beautiful. Only a few

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details remain on the “punch list,” as well as the final inspection, and then the process of moving from the current store, located at 1207 East Forrest Street, Suite G, can begin.

craft her unique creations. She will do custom work, and if, for example, you purchase a necklace that is not quite the right length, she will adjust it for you.

Before that can happen, however, Terri and her husband, Dr. Jimmy Dunn are going to be counselors at church camp, something they have done remedied.

for years since their own kids were small. Once the move to the new location begins, there will be an “everythingmust-go” moving sale and both stores will be open for business until the transition is completed. Lots of work,

to be sure, and the results will be wonderful, both for shoe lovers as well as people interested in the revitalization and restoration of the Courthouse Square. So, whether you shop at the current location, or wait until the new one opens, what can you expect to find at the Shoe Gallery? For openers, service extraordinaire from Terri and her team. I have always been treated like a queen, as has anyone I have sent there to shop. Once I purchased a pair of shoes that turned out to be defective. Not only did I get my money cheerfully refunded, but Terri took my shoes to the market and spoke with the representative to make sure the problem with the shoe’s construction was

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As far as actual shoes are concerned, Shoe Gallery carries such well known lines as Clark’s, Merrell, Vaneli, Pierre Dumas, (one of my favorites,) Nicole, and Jambu, an “eco-shoe” whose sales line is “be you with Jambu.” There are sandals, dressy evening shoes, boots, comfy-butnot-dumpy, and the new ultra light running shoes that are “all the rage.” When Terri can get great deals, she passes on the savings to the customers, and I personally have loved a pair of Nicole black patent leather flats that in New York go for $300, but are much less at Shoe Gallery. Lovely, elegant, practical, and kicky purses are available, with a new line called Papaya being one of Terri’s current favorites. There are also some lovely scarves. The store also specializes in custom jewelry, including bracelets, earrings and necklaces. One line, called Priti, is made by a woman named Michele Smith who lives near Birmingham. Michele is very selective regarding her choice of stones, and she uses components from estate sales and other venues to

Shoe Gallery carries invitations, watches, umbrellas, note cards, stationery, journals and planners. One other service that Terri offers is ordering items for a customer from one of her many catalogues. No one can stock everything, so she is happy to show customers what’s available and get it for them.

I do believe the new location of Shoe Gallery II will prove to be one of the most beautiful shops on the Square, and thank Wayne, Terri and Jimmy for having a vision and then seeing it through. Can’t wait til the Grand Opening!

Shoe Gallery II

1207 East Forrest Street, Suite G Athens, AL Phone: 256-233-4861 Hours: Monday 12-5 Tuesday-Friday 10-5 Saturday 10-4 shoegallerytwo@ gmail.com facebook: shoegallery2

NEW LOCATION TO OPEN SOON 109 South Marion Street, (directly across from the east side of the Courthouse, next to Kids’ World) July 6 - July 19, 2012

Medical Update

Find Hot Flash Relief The Natural Way courtesy ARA content

(ARA) - As women enter their 40s and 50s, it’s in.evitable. Menopause will ,begin. And so will the hot uflashes. s At the onset of “the change,” , many women turn to their moms, sisters and friends -for advice on how to beat the -heat during unpleasant and ,uninvited hot flashes. While eeach woman can offer her -advice on relief, you might afind that different treatments rwork for different women. e According to Rebecca e Hulem, certified menopause s clinician and affectionately t known as “The Menopause Expert,” that is OK. n “There’s no one method of e treatment that is appropriate for all menopausal women,” d says Hulem. “The choices you make might be quite d different from the ones your t best friend makes. And the way a specific treatment method affects your body might also be quite different.” But one common ground many women find in their treatment plans is that they are looking for natural solutions. Natural remedies typically involve plants or habitual lifestyle changes that help alleviate hot flashes. For women seeking natural hot flash relief, below are a few of the most effective options: Focus on nutrition

quency and severity of hot flashes. For some women, certain foods trigger hot flashes. Common triggers include coffee, spicy foods or alcohol. Many experts recommend avoiding caffeine or alcohol within three hours of bedtime to decrease the likelihood of night sweats interrupting your sleep.

to incorporate a variety of training techniques including aerobic, weight-bearing, strength training and relaxation exercises like yoga. Take a natural supplement Supplements containing soy isoflavones rich in genistein, or naturally-occurring compounds with a chemical structure similar to estro-

However, it’s important to carefully examine supplement dosage to make sure you are getting an effective

flavones - just look for the green NovaSoy brand leaf on the labels of over-thecounter supplements widely found in drug, grocery and health and nutrition stores. To find a list of products featuring the leaf logo, visit www.NovaSoy.com.

Deflate stress with therapy

It’s been proven that lowering stress levels helps decrease menopausal hot flashes. There are many ways to alleviate stress, such as deep breathing, meditation and yoga exercises. But some women are turning to more creative therapies such as hypnotherapy, herbal therapy and aromatherapy. Regardless of the approach you choose, bringing your body to a state of calmness and relaxation should help minimize hot flashes.

It’s important to remember though, that you should still consult your health care provider even if you are using natural options for hot flash relief. Discuss your symptoms, treatment plan and how it may impact your overall health. Exercise regularly Exercise has been shown to improve hot flashes as well as a host of other menopause-related issues women face, including sleep disturbances. However, to reap the full benefits, it’s important

gen, have been scientifically proven to reduce the frequency and severity of menopausal hot flashes. The results of the most comprehensive study to-date, which were published in Menopause: The Journal of

With many changes taking place inside your body, it’s essential to maintain the right kind of diet. What’s the right kind, you ask? One that’s full of fruits, vegetables and plant-based proteins such as beans, lentils, legumes and soy. Certain soy supplements, specifically, have been scientifically proven to decrease the fre-

July 6 - July 19, 2012

The North American Menopause Society this year, found clear and consistent evidence that soy isoflavones decrease hot flash frequency and severity by approximately 50 to 60 percent.

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amount. Supplements that contain a dose of at least 19 milligrams of the soy isoflavone genistein are most effective. Some companies are making it especially easy to find supplements that contain the right amount of soy iso-

It’s also critical for women to remember that treatment doesn’t work overnight, emphasizes Hulem.

“You may need to try several different approaches before you find the one that works best for you,” she says.

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Dog Barker

Happy 4th of July… 2013 by Joel Allen

Hello everyone! The 4th of July is just behind us, and by the time this article is printed we will have eaten ourselves into gluttony. We will have fired our fireworks and enjoyed the displays. Some of us will have attended the fireworks show in town. And now for the memories! I had a dog that was half pit and half dachshund. Her name was “Little Girl” for obvious reasons. Anyway, every year we had to lock up Little Girl because she hated fireworks to the point she would clamp down on them and let them explode in her mouth. Thankfully she was never seriously injured. We were bruised when she would come running full tilt into us because of the firecracker we would light. She was always trying to take them from us, LOL. It was comical to watch her grab one in her mouth, bite down, growling, and then “POW!” She would shake it off, spit it out and be ready for more. It always scared me she would hurt herself, but thankfully, it never happened.

expended.

Hiding

Playful

When this happens, have the compassion enough to put them into a quiet room, with maybe a TV,

Your dog tries everything they can to get your goodies by chasing you, trying to knock you down for the ordinance, and sometimes just bark a lot and harass you. This can be fun and cause you to smile because they are totally into you and what you are doing. If you put them in the house to get them out of your way or to protect them, keep in mind, someone will need to protect your curtains.

or some music to “soothe the savage beast.” They will be really nervous and sometimes become aggressive toward others or have accidents in the house, so be careful. If they have already run under something, don’t reach into their sanctuary. Instead try and lure them out and take them to their designated quiet area. Lastly, remember for every dog bite or accident there is a reason why it happened, so do your best to find out why, and

take steps to keep it from ever happening again. So, although this is may seem a bit early, “Happy 4th of July!!” “Remember to love your dogs because they love you. Maybe not the way you want them to, like chewing up your favorite shoes or what not, but that is just love chewing. Be thankful for the time you have with them always.”

Joel and Zues Allen 256-651-2211

So, let us talk about your recent holiday. Do you have a dog that hated the fireworks? Did they get aggressive, playful, or just want to hide? Well, let’s address these situations one at a time. Aggression Your dog tries to eat up anyone who lights any fireworks. The best thing you can do is put them up and keep them away from everyone at least until thirty minutes has gone by since the last firework was

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July 6 - July 19, 2012

Health and Fitness

Battling The Bulge by Janet Hunt

Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment. According to a recent Gallup study, three in 10 people in the USA are trying to lose weight,. Below are 11 of the most effective weight loss strategies. 1. Tackle barriers. Determine what is holding you back and create strategies to overcome those obstacles. 2. Dump the quick-fix approach. Quick fixes lead to failure. If you lose weight quickly, you will probably rapidly regain it. 3. Change only one habit at a time. If you do too much at once, you will be overwhelmed and quit. Start with small dietary changes – for example load your sandwiches with more vegetables and less meat. 4. Keep a food and physical activity diary. If you want to lose weight, you have to become more aware of your exercise and eating behaviors which means keeping a diary. 5. Weigh daily.

6. Think about calorie density, not just calories. Low calorie density foods are foods that have lower calorie content per certain volume of food than high density foods. Low density foods include fruit, vegetables, beans, and cooked grains, whereas high density foods are crackers, chips, nuts, candy, butter, etc. Lower calorie density foods will fill you up faster with less calories.

July 6 - July 19, 2012

lead to comfort eating. In some individuals, stress increases cortisol levels which can lead to weight gain.

7. Commit to at least 30 minutes of daily exercise.

hunger because it is both emotional and physical.

8. Sleep more. Not only does lack of sleep make you cranky causing you to turn to “comfort” foods, it may cause cortisol and insulin levels to increase, making you think you are hungry.

11. Stress less. Stress may

For information about “Battling the Bulge” and a healthy lifestyle contact Janet at jhunt1@pclnet. net or 256-6i4-3530.

9. Pay attention to portions. Use visuals to identify correct portions. Weigh foods at home. Use a smaller plate. Limit your dining out. 10. Focus on fullness, not hunger. People have a difficult time identifying

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July 6 - July 19, 2012

What To Do ... And Not To Do In A Water Emergency Nation’s Experts Advise Property Owners How To Reduce Damage From Water-Related Emergencies Athens, AL (Grassroots Newswire) -- According to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage related incidents resulting from leaks and other “wet” mishaps are the No. 1 reason homeowners file claims with their insurance companies. Property owners can actually minimize damage and significantly reduce safety risks by following expert advice from PuroClean Property Rescue, part of a leading national franchise that specializes in mitigation and restoration services for water, mold, fire, trauma events and other types of losses. As the “Paramedics of Property Damage,” PuroClean Property Rescue arrives at the scene of a loss and takes the necessary steps to bring the situation under control, preventing it from becoming worse, and finally providing restoration services to help put the property back to preloss condition. “No one thinks that a water damage crisis could ever happen to them, but the unfortunate truth is that every American is impacted by water damage at some point in their life,” said Dave Cowan, owner of PuroClean Property Rescue. “Most people don’t realize the magnitude of a water-related disaster, and that there are actually some measures they can take themselves before we arrive to protect themselves and their property from further loss.” To help minimize loss, and prevent further damage while technicians from PuroClean Property Rescue are en route, Cowan suggests property owners follow these guidelines: - Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting the saturated area. - Wipe furniture to remove excess water - Place Aluminum foil between furniture legs and wet carpet.

PuroClean

- Prop up wet furniture cushions for even drying - Lift drapes off flooring, loop through a coat hanger and hang on curtain rod - Remove wet area rugs - Turn on air conditioner if damage occurs in summer - Move valuable paintings, art objects and photos to a safe, dry place - Open closet doors, furniture drawers and luggage to aid in drying - Remove any wet fabrics and dry immediately. - Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature - Stay out of any rooms where the ceiling is sagging from trapped water - Turn off the breaker before unplugging appliances Do Not - Use your household vacuum to remove the excess water - Use electrical appliances while standing on wet flooring or carpets - Enter a room where electrical cords are in water - Wait to call for professional help. The longer you wait, the more damage will occur Services provided by PuroClean Property Rescue include water damage restoration, odor control, fire and smoke restoration, sewage clean-ups, debris removal, water extraction, sanitization, crawl space drying, trauma restoration, emergency board-ups, structural drying, wind damage, disinfecting, mold removal and basement drying. PuroClean’s technology allows people to repair their homes and regain their lives after a disaster. Quickly providing the insurance community and property owners with disaster restoration and mitigation services, PuroClean minimizes loss and prevents additional damage from mold, soot, smoke and odors to structure and contents.

Property Rescue

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

July 6 - July 19, 2012

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550 Braid Paracord

Sizzlin’ Summer Sale

40+ Colors to choose from

Paracord Bracelet Clips

7.99

550 Braid Paracord Bracelets Many colors and combinations

4.99

7, 8 and 9 inch

Bradford White Water Heaters 50 Gallon

Man Cave Plaques & Clocks

12.99

Kool Seal $49.96

For making your own bracelets

10/$

125

Steele Generators 1200 watt in camo case - $299.95 2000 watt - $275.00 3250 watt - $399.00 6000 watt - $650.00 7500 watt (electric start) - $750.00 10,000 wat (electric start) - $1,000 Griddle $299.99

3.50

79.95

Smith & Wesson Hearing Protetion

9.95

Winch 9500

299.95

Industrial Warehouse Fan 42” $250.00 36” $200.00

Gun Cleaning KIts

19.95$29.95

8.99

Solar Pael Array 45 Watt Complete with converter box and lights

17.49

Winchester Gun Cleaner

400 Watt - $39.95 1200 Watt - $89.95 2000 Watt - $179.95 3000 Watt - $249.95

Good Selection

Wireless Backup Camera

Whistler Inspection Camera WIC-2517C

280 8.49

Car Fan 12 Volt

Starting at

Inverters

Gun Holsters & Magazine Pouches

250

Game Scale 0-440 lbs.

19.95

Engine Hoist (Cherry Picker)

199.95 Engine Stand

56.88

14535 US Hwy 72 • Athens • 256-232-6695 HOURS: 9am-5pm Mon-Sat. CLOSED SUNDAY

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

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July 6 - July 19, 2012

Security Savvy

Safety At The Gas Station by Jim Doyle, owner of Madison Security Group

The gas station, it used to be the place just to get gas and have the oil changed, maybe have your windows washed. Now gas stations have turned into mini shopping marts. With the convenience of being able to pick up just about anything at the gas station, the trouble can quickly start. Here are some tips to keep you and your family safe while visiting the gas marts.

• Always turn off your engine before you begin refueling your car

• Don’t talk on you cell phone while refueling your car

• Never smoke, or light matches or lighters while refueling

pump

• Never leave your car running or with the keys in it while you run in the store • Never leave your children in the car alone

• Never use a non-approved container for gas (Glass/Plastic bottle)

• If you see someone smoking near the pumps, say something

glass bottles, plastic milk containers or soda bottles. • Keep gasoline out of reach of children • Keep all containers tightly closed

• Avoid getting in and out of the car while refueling

• Never mix gasoline with diesel fuel or kerosene

• Static explosions and fires are very real danger

• Do not use gasoline in kerosene lamps or heaters

• Avoid spills by not topping off the tank

• Store gasoline in a separate building from the house, such as a storage shed

Transporting and storage of gasoline can be very dangerous if you do not use the proper precautions.

• Only use containers approved for gasoline storage. Do not use old containers that have been laying around such as

July 6 - July 19, 2012

fumes from gasoline can result in a trip to the emergency room. If you do need to buy something from of one of the mini-mart stores that

are now also a part of most gas stations, here are some tips to keep a theft or tragedy from happening. • Never leave your car running for any reason at a gas

• Try to be polite to other patrons. I have seen arguments start over the smallest problem. Common sense and courtesy will go a long way toward making your summer road trip safe and successful. Happy travels!

• Allow engines such as a lawn mower to cool before refueling • Make sure that if you are working with gasoline that the area that you are in is well ventilated. Inhaling

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July 6 - July 19, 2012