June 5 2016

June 3rd - June 16th, 2016

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

Athens Grease Festival Includes A Menu Of Music For All Tastes

See Our Listings Inside this edition...

Pages 25 - 32

Special Feature Drucilla’s Grand Reopening: Victorian Suppers By Candlelight...

This Spring, all of Athens celebrated as the new City Hall building was completed, moved into, and ready for business. One of the challenges that accompanied the project was...

Page 5

Clean And Green Couch To Duck & Run 5K: Why Not You?...

Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful promotes a healthy environment.

Part of creating a healthy environment is to...

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Learning As A Lifestyle We’re Off To See...

Did you ever have one of those days when you wake up feeling great, look in the mirror and see yourself as...

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By Holly Hollman

The menu for musical entertainment at the fourth annual Athens Grease Festival is as varied as the list of fried foods.

Continued on page 15

The 2016 Will Haney Foundation 5 K Race: Helping Others to “Finish Strong”

By Ali Elizabeth Turner Heather Haney, and her brother, Will, were very close to being like fraternal twins, except for the fact they were 16 months apart! They were inseparable from birth until the moment Will passed in 2011. He Continued on pages 17

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Publisher’s Point Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Why Have A Why?

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Contributing Writers Janet Hunt Lynne Hart Wanda Campbell Paul Foreman Tammy Wilkinson Rachel Clark, RN BSN Teresa Tofdd Joel Allen Jerry Barksdale Holly Hollman

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 6 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . 10 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Tammy . . . . . 13 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 14 Cover Stories . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . 18 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 19 Dog Barker . . . . . . . . . . 20 Jerry's Journal . . . . . . . . 21 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Foreman's Forum . . . . . . . . 23

June 3 - June 16, 2016

Do you have a “why?”

Do you know why you should have a “why?”

What in the world is a “why,” anyway? Briefly stated, your why is what makes you get up in the morning and sticking to “it,” until it’s done, no matter what. On the surface it can be that a guy’s why is that he knows if he doesn’t get up and go to work, his family won’t have food on the table. Yet, deeper than that, his why is a mixture of love and purpose that will cause him to lay down his life for them in a heartbeat.

Some folks say that you have not gotten to your why until you cry, or at least have a knot in your throat. If the guy who gets up every morning were to imagine for a moment the prospect of one of his kids getting kidnapped or go missing, chances are he would cry. Your why is knowing and walking in the core reason you were made and put on this Earth. It is more specific than “wanting to make a difference.” There’s nothing wrong with that, but it will not keep you when it looks like you are not, in fact, making a difference.

Truly walking in your why helps you take the position of doing a specific activity with no attachment to the outcome.

You do it because it’s right, you do it because you can do no other, you

take care of “it” before you can let yourself go to bed at night.

Maybe on the surface Rosa Parks wasn’t walking in her why the day she refused to give up her seat on the bus in Montgomery over 60 years ago. The story was that she was tired and just had had it with not being

treated like a lady. But I can guarantee you that much more than that gave her the courage to stick to her guns. Way down inside she had a passion for justice that was stronger than either her fatigue or her outrage; that and God’s grace sustained her.

Athletes might start off with a goal centered why

that is tied to winning a gold medal in Rio this summer, or beating Auburn or Alabama, depending on which “house” you live in. But, athletes age, and if they don’t have something deeper that lasts past lobbing their last pass, they come up empty. I think that might be why we see such a

high incidence of crashand-burn lifestyles, especially amongst professional athletes, after they are no longer in the stats or the sports shows. They never got a hold of their why.

You’ll read in this edition about Will Haney, who passed away from cancer. Interestingly, while Will worked hard, served his country, “never met a

stranger,” he did not get in touch with his why, (which was to go to nursing school) until he was near the end of his life and battling cancer. Why didn’t that come for him earlier? I don’t know, but I have learned this from talking to his family: Will was a “live-er,” and I have the impression that he was quite a nurse himself to the nurses who were taking care of him.

It is said that when you are able to distill your purpose down to six words, you’ll have a short-hand of sorts that serves as a hand hold when you are slipping.

Mine has changed over time, and might change again, but it is this, and it is on purpose crafted in the continuing action form of the three verbs because the whole point is to never stop: “Choosing life, doing good, doing well.” The walk-out of that is the “what”, and all of it is pointless if at the end of the day I have not checked in with my boss, the Jewish Carpenter. Find your why, love the One who gave it to you, show it to the world.

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

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All Things Soldier

Blasting Bollywood Music Drives ISIS Bonkers

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

On June 1st, it was revealed in the Economic Times that British Special Forces are engaging in an especially fascinating form of psychological warfare against terrorists in Libya. They are subjecting ISIS to “auditory torture” (my words) by incessantly playing Top 40 Bollywood music at high volume levels. The practice was suggested to them by a UK intelligence officer who was born in Pakistan. The reasoning behind the operation was that due to the fact that ISIS considers music to be “un-Islamic,” if they exited the area to get away from “all things infidel,” it could expose their numbers, strengths, weaknesses, as well as

a shot would have to be fired.

their movements.

The Brits had intercepted ISIS communications which made it very clear that according to Shar-

ia imposed law in and around a Libyan town by the name of Sirte, music was considered to be “western and frivolous,” therefore it must be

Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)

$7

June 20th

11am - 1pm and 5pm-7pm

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

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banned. So, they devised a plan to get the most “pound for their sound.”

Besides playing the music non-stop, Libyan and British soldiers also dumped two cars in town that were blaring Bollywood tunes from loudspeakers. I must admit, at first I thought that was too risky, because the cars could possibly get turned into VBIEDS (Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Devices), but then I realized that no self-respecting Sharia-ite would sully himself by drawing near to something that is forbidden.

It must be understood that there is more happening than just causing the annoyance of “Would you turn that thing down?” If someone is a “true believer,” then they must do everything they can to escape contamination, and as was mentioned above, that movement could be a priceless source of intel, and not

When I was in Iraq, there was an officer who used to walk back and forth near Saddam’s birthday palace at sunset playing “Amazing Grace” on his bagpipe. Every day I could not wait for him to play after the last call to prayer, which was always so poor musically that it was a relief when it was over. I cannot say that the officer was motivated by anything other than bringing a touch of home to the American, British, and Australian soldiers as the day was drawing to a close, but it certainly comforted me, so in a reverse manner, I can personally speak to the power of music in a combat zone.

The strategy seems to be working, as the ISIS operatives are using their walkie-talkies to discuss their dismay regarding the “Bollywood bombs,” and thereby they are giving away their exact locations. British soldiers are in Libya in a noncombatant role to teach Libyans who are interested in liberty to rout out the rascals. Thankfully their rules of engagement seem to be much better than what our soldiers are currently being subjected to, and that is, the Brits are able to return fire if they are fired upon first. May God bless them and all who are willing to put themselves in harm’s way to keep us from being swallowed up by Sharia insanity.

June 3 - June 16, 2016

Special Feature

Drucilla’s Grand Reopening: Victorian Suppers By Candlelight

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

e This Spring, all of Athens celebrated as the new City Hall building was completed, e moved into, and ready for business. One of the challenges that accompanied the project was y the extended closing of North - Marion Street, which made acn cess to Drucilla’s Restaurant y much more challenging. Now m that traffic is flowing freely l again, Drucilla’s is celebrat- ing by announcing a special y “Grand Reopening” event to n be held on June 10th and 11th.

It is a reservations-only Vicy torian Supper by Candlelight, - and Chef Angela McClure will r be preparing a lovely 4 course meal for the occasion. (See in, sert.) n We’ll talk a bit more about s all that Drucilla’s has to offer, t as well as Chef Angela’s fas, cinating background, but for I now, a bit of history for those o of you who are not familiar a with Drucilla’s. It is beautifully situated in a wonderful house located at 300 North e Marion, in the historical sec- tion of Athens. It is named afr ter Olna Drucilla Bullington, s who taught both at Piney Chag pel and Ardmore, and she was ” the grandmother of the owner, - Carol Holland. Drucilla was a - great cook, and taught Carol s both to love cooking and do it - well. Carol is a native of Athh t e t y d e e

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the Manse (or parsonage) of the Presbyterian Church, and since then has sheltered both families and businesses. It has been beautifully maintained, and has leaded windows that cast rainbows on the walls when the sun shines through. It boasts the high ceilings of the day, has two fireplaces, and is furnished cheerfully with brightly colored tablecloths as well as an eclectic assortment of antique tables and chairs, which Carol loves

ens, got her engineering degree from UAH, and for 35 years she worked for the Department of Defense as an Industrial Systems Engineer. She retired, and when the house on Marion became available in 2014, she knew this was the place where she would be able to realize her lifelong dream of being a restaurateur. She was already familiar with the house, (known as the Manse,) as her brother went to school with the boys who used to live there, and she knew it would be the perfect place to launch Drucilla’s.

The house was built in 1901 as

to arrange so that each place offers a different chair in which to sit. The daily menu could be described as being “Southern Eclectic,” and the “you choose” theme is reflected there as well.

All the Southern standards from chicken salad, banana pudding, home-made pies and yeast rolls, to quiche and Poulet Normandie, (a French chicken dish) are available, and Carol has been able to hold to her hope of keeping lunch for two under $20.

Drucilla’s has another special feature which I have thoroughly enjoyed, and that is their high teas. They are custom designed; you get to pick your tea cup, tea pot, and flavors of tea for your event.” They include all the elements of a “proper English tea,” including scones, tarts, dill sandwiches, and more. They start at $9.95 and go up to $19.95, and

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the kitchen needs a 24-hour notice so they can custom design and display your wishes. Drucilla’s is a perfect place for bridal or baby showers, family reunion dinners, small weddings, and catering is a big part of their array of services. If you work in the downtown Athens area, they will also deliver lunch to you.

Now, for Montgomery native Chef Angela McClure and the collaborative effort that will pull off the Victorian Candlelight Suppers with aplomb. Angela could be described as a true “Southern renaissance woman,” holds a law degree, has worked at 5 star restaurants in North Alabama, is nearly finished with her culinary arts certification from Drake State, and will be spending next summer in France learning haute cuisine from a French Master Chef. Oh, and did I mention that she owns and breeds champion racehorses, breeds and shows rottweilers, and is a licensed dog groomer?

She grooms Carol’s Shih Tzus, and that’s how they met. She especially loves to create fabulous meat dishes, and for the spe-

cial supper, one of the entrees will be a layered filet mignon with fresh accompaniments which has been aptly named “Steak Drucilla.” As a matter of course, Carol loves to feature local produce as much as possible, everything will be homemade, and all of it is going to come together for a memorable meal to celebrate their Grand Reopening.

There simply is no restaurant in Athens that can offer the combination of a superbly crafted meal set in a beautiful historic home, and Drucilla’s would love to invite you to make your reservations today for an evening you’ll never forget. Serving will start at 5:30 pm, and the kitchen will close at 8:30 pm both nights.

Drucilla’s

300 North Marion Street Athens, AL, 35611 256-497-7279 Hours: M-F 10:30-2 www.drucillasrestaurant.com Facebook: Drucilla’s

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Calendar of Events Mud Volleyball registration NOW OPEN

2016 Mud Volleyball. Athens Swan Creek Park. Saturday, July 16 at 9:00 AM. Why play Mud Volleyball for CASA of Limestone County? Mud Volleyball is CASA’s primary fund-raising event each year. Your fee is used to provide services for homebound seniors. Primary services include transportation to medical appointments, construction of wheelchair ramps, winterization, etc. CASA depends on outstanding volunteers who provide these services. You may register by coming to the CASA office at 912 West Pryor St., Athens, Al. Mailing registration to CASA at P. O. Box 749, Athens, AL. 35612 or Register online. Please call Glynda Walker (CASA Director) at 256-777-1038 for more information or email her at casalimestone@gmail.com.

Bike MS: Rocket to the Shoals Jun 4th-5th

Wellness Park, Washington Street & Hine Street, Athens, AL. Bike MS: Rocket to the Shoals 2016 is a two day fundraising cycling event, taking you from Athens, AL to Florence, AL. There are 25,45 and 75 mile route options, all of which are well supported with fully-stocked rest stops every 10-12 miles, a great lunch stop each day and safety provided by medical personnel, HAM radio operators, law enforcement and motorcycle escorts. The ride begins Sat morning at Athens-Limestone Hospital Wellness Center Fitness Park. Riders travel through scenic back roads where they will enjoy NOAH bike trail, quaint towns, and beautiful scenery.

Participatants will end at the Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa where we will enjoy a great post-ride lunch, afternoon tours of the shoals area, and "A Taste of Florence" for our dinner party and awards banquet. Day 2 begins with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before heading back to Athens and and the finish line. Our route for the second day takes riders along the river and into Joe Wheeler State Park. For more info or to register: http://main.nationalmssociety. org/site/TR/Bike/ALCBikeEvents?pg=entry&fr_id=27776

Spring Garden Tour Jun 11th

Athens, AL. Enjoy a collection of private gardens during this tour from 10:00AM-2:00PM with Master Gardners on hand to answer questions. Advanced tickets are $15.00 from May 2nd to June 10th at the following location: Crawford Gifts 203 West Washington Street Athens; Pimento's 210 West Market Street Athens; Trinity's 204 West Market Street Athens; Athens-Limestone Public Library 603 South Jefferson Street Athens; and members of Friends of the Library. Day of Tour Tickets can only be purchased at the Athens-Limestone Public Library.

2016 National Marina Day Jun 11th

Joe Wheeler State Park, 4403 McLean Drive, Rogersville, AL. National Marina Day promotes the role marinas play as familyPage 6

friendly gateways to boating. Products and services will be on display to highlight the many pleasurable benefits related to both waterfront and outdoor lifestyles starting at 10:00AM at the park marina.​

Family Fun Day Jun 12th

Camp Helen, 14477 Baptist Camp Road, Harvest, AL. Everyone is invited to a fun day at Camp Helen from 3:00PM until ? for swimming, singing, food and fun. Free.

11th Annual Cruz-In Jun 16th

Sonic Drive-In, 26909 Main Street, Ardmore, TN. Bring your unique collectible car or truck and share the nostalgia of yesterday from 6:00PM-8:00PM. Come out check out the cars and support Ardmore Boys and Girls Club. Donations Greatly Appreciated.

No Entry Fee. No Judging. YETI Cooler Raffle.

Ardmore Lions Club Tractor and Truck Pull Jun 17th-18th

John Barns Park, Ardmore Ridge Road, Ardmore, TN. The engines will rev and the dirt will fly as the tractors and trucks pull the grounds of John Barnes Park starting at 7:00PM. Classes: Light Super Stock Tractors, Heavy Super Stock Tractors, Limited Pro Stock Tractors, 6200 TWD Trucks, 9300 Super Farm Tractors, P4=PSFWD TrucksAdmission $10.00 each night 6 & Under FREE, No Rain Checks * No Refunds http://www.e-clubhouse. org/sites/ardmoretn/projects.php

5K Training Program Jul 7th

Have you ever wanted to run a 5K but had no idea how to prepare?

Here is a class to teach you how. Registration is currently open through June 30th. Kickoff meeting is July 7th and training will begin July 11th. Register for this training program through the City of Athens Parks and Recreation Department at 256-233-8740.

For more information about the program, contact Eric Patterson at ericdpatterson@yahoo.com.

WILLPower Race of Champions 5K Run / Walk 2016 Jul 30th

Will Haney Foundation Race of Champions. USTAF Certified.

Open to all ages. 7am sign in, 8am run/walk, 1 mile fun run immediately following, 10am Awards. Water and refreshments will be provided. 5k is $25 and Fun Run is $15. Tshirt included and guaranteed to all who pre-register by July 15th. Register online at www.willhaneyfoundation.org.

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Tourism

From International Travelers To Local Annual Favorites: Athens Is The Place To Celebrate Summer

by Teresa Todd, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association This past Friday morning (May 27, 2016), I had the honor of showing 61 international travelers from Mumbai, India our community’s most beautiful educational facility, Athens State University.

Niyati (Nina) Tijoriwala, the proprietor of an India touring company called “Edu Outing Concepts,” brought the students on an amazing journey throughout the Eastern and Southeastern parts of the United States. Travelling from New York to Florida, and then to Huntsville, the group took a short trip to Athens to learn about our intuitions of higher learning at Historic Athens State University.

It was my privilege to provide the group with a special welcome from Mayor Marks, details of how our educational facilities work, and how they may be able to be a part of our educational programs. In addition, they were greeted by Dr. Robert Glenn, President of Athens State University.

Afterwards, Mrs. Sara Love, ASU Archivist, gave the students a tour of the campus highlighting the University’s history, and identifying the buildings where the different curricula is taught.

Nina was very pleased with the tour, and is planning to bring another tour to the States and Athens again next year. I will be looking forward to their arrival, and to assisting them with their tour again.

June 3rd -- Singing on the Square. Limestone

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AL. Grab your clubs and three friends for this Four Man Scramble Tour starting at 7:00AM. Teams are $300.00 each, and proceeds go to the Ardmore Quarterback Club and their programs assisting area athletics. For more information, contact Tracy Goldsmith 236-4269307 or Bethany Barnette 256-777-2616.

June 4th -- Cruise In. Downtown Athens, AL. Bring your hot rod, motorcycle, truck, or unique vehicle and park on the square to share your love of automobiles with other enthusiasts from 3:00PM to 6:00PM. Shop the boutiques and stores, and enjoy a meal downtown at one of the restaurants.

June 10th & 11th -Elkmont Lions Club Smokin' Railroad

County Courthouse, Marion Street, Athens, AL. Join the Athens-Limestone County Tourism and sponsor Jimmy Smith Buick GMC for a free concert starting at 6:00PM featuring Southern Splendor Chorus and Rocket City Chorus. Be sure to bring your lawn chairs. For more information: http://www. visitathensal.com/3/singinon-the-square.htm June 4th -- Coffee Call.

Alabama Veterans’ Museum and Archives, 100 West Pryor Street, Athens, AL. All veterans and their families are invited to the museum for breakfast and a time of

Street Barbecue Cook-off.

Downtown Elkmont, AL. Join the Elkmont Lions Club for their newly Kansas City Barbecue Society sanctioned Backyard Division cook-off. Categories will be Pulled Pork, Chicken and Ribs. The public will enjoy music, sampling, and concessions. Tickets to sample for People's Choice to be announced. Cook teams interested in participating should visit: www. elkmontlionsclub.com For more information, e-mail ldpylant25902@yahoo. com.

June 10th -- Elkmont Cruise In. Gilbert Street, Downtown Elkmont, AL. First come-first serve parking 2:00PM-8:00PM. $250.00 People's Choice Award, $50.00 Furthest Distance Traveled, and $50.00 cash Prize Drawing

fellowship with fellow veterans at 8:00AM. For more information, contact 256771-7578.

June 4th -- 2nd Annual Catfish Literary Festival.

Athens-Limestone Public Library, 603 South Jefferson Street, Athens, AL. Join the library for a day celebrating local authors and the art of story-craft.

More details to come. For information, call 256-2321233.

June 4th -- Ardmore Quarterback Club Golf Tournament.

Southern Gayles Golf Course, 22405 Mooresville Road, Athens,

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June 3 - June 16, 2016

every 30 minutes starting at 6:00PM. For more information, contact Elkmont Town Hall 256-732-4211.

June 11th -- Athens Grease Festival. Downtown Athens, AL. Enjoy a day feasting on “all things fried.” For more information, see Holly Hollman’s article on page 11, or visit www.athensgreasefestival. com.

June 11th -- Spring Garden Tour. Athens, AL. Enjoy a collection of private gardens during this tour from 10:00AM-2:00PM with Master Gardeners on hand to answer questions. Advanced tickets are $15.00 from May 2nd to June 10th at the following locations: Crawford Gifts (203 West Washington Street Athens), Pimento's (210 West Market Street Athens), Trinity's (204 West Market Street Athens), Athens-Limestone Public Library (603 South Jefferson Street Athens), and from members of Friends of the Library. Day of Tour Tickets can only be purchased at the AthensLimestone Public Library.

June 11th -- Saturday Supper with Belle Chevre.

Belle Chevre Cheese Shop and Tasting Room, 18849 Upper Fort Hampton Road, Elkmont, AL. Back by popular demand, Belle Chevre is again offering their Saturday Suppers cooked by our award-winning Chief Cheese Tasia Malakasis and Chef de Cuisine Rick Vonk. Saturday Suppers are inspired by fresh, local ingredients, including Belle Chevre’s fine artisanal goat cheeses made in Alabama.

Southern-made 5-course meals that reflect Southern heritage and our passion for spreading love around meals. Two seating options are available: 5:30PM and 7:30PM. $75/person. To view menu or make a reservation, visit http://www. bellechevre.com/cream-

June 3 - June 16, 2016

ery-tours-events/saturdaysuppers-2/.

June 11th -- Singer-Songwriters Night. The Red Caboose, 25483 Railroad Street, Elkmont, AL. Join The Red Caboose for an evening of live music. Doors open at 6:00PM, show starts at 7:00PM. Admission is $25.00 and includes snacks.

Children age 12 and under are free. For more information, list of performers, and directions, visit TheRedCaboose.net.

June 17th-18th -- Ardmore Lions Club Tractor and Truck Pull. John Barns Park, Ardmore Ridge Road Ardmore, TN. The engines will rev and the dirt will fly as the tractors and trucks pull the grounds of John Barnes Park starting at 7:00PM. Classes: Light Super Stock Tractors, Heavy Super Stock Tractors, Limited Pro Stock Tractors, 6200 TWD Trucks, 9300 Super Farm Tractors, P4=PSFWD Trucks. Admission is $10.00 each night, with children age 6 & Under FREE. No Rain Checks, No Refunds For more information, please visit http:// www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/ ardmoretn/projects.php.

June 17th -- Singing on the Square. Limestone County Courthouse, Marion Street Athens, AL. Join Athens-Limestone County Tourism and sponsor Jimmy Smith Buick GMC for a free concert featuring Just Down the Road at 6:00PM. Be sure to bring your lawn chair. For more information, visit http://www.visitathensal.com/3/singin-onthe-square.htm.

June 18th -- Bluegrass at Whistle Hollow Farm.

Whistle Hollow Farm Wedding & Event Venue, 701 Lofton Hall Road, Ardmore, TN. Solid Blue will be performing starting at 5:00PM. Come early and enjoy. Concessions will open at 4:30PM. Bring your own blanket or lawn chair,

and settle in for an evening of bluegrass music. Space is limited. General admission is $10.00, and general admission with a meal ticket $17.00. Visit www.whistlehollow.com for more information and purchase your tickets at http://www. eventbrite.com/e/bluegrassnight-at-whistle-hollowtickets-24636357007.

June 20th-- Vietnam Veterans Spaghetti Lunch/ Dinner. Vietnam Veterans Chapter 511 Post, 17915 West Elm Street Athens, AL. Join the VVA Chapter 511 for an all-you-can-eat spaghetti meal including salad, garlic bread, dessert, and beverage for $7.00.

Options are lunch from 11:00AM-1:00PM or dinner from 5:00PM-7:00PM or both!

June 24th -- Basic Digital Photography with Olivia Reed. 1818 Farms, 24889 Lauderdale Street, Mooresville, AL. Join Olivia Reed for an afternoon of fun at 1818 Farms as she presents her Basic Digital Photography Class from 3:00PM to 6:00PM, with the focus on the botanicals. Olivia will go over camera basics, shooting in manual, selecting the right lenses to maximize quality, composition, memory cards, computer programs and more. Bring your digital SLR camera and lenses for a hands on experience in manual mode.

Once the basics are covered, step outside on the farm for an outdoor shooting experience. Price is $150 per class. The following supplies are Included: handouts on all topics covered and a box supper. For more information, please visit https:// store.1818farms.com/collections/classes/products/ basic-digital-photographywith-olivia-reed.

June 24th-- Senior Lunch Matinee Show. Yesterday’s Event Center. 15631 Brownsferry Road Athens, AL. Join Yesterday’s for a

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complete lunch including drink and dessert for $11.00, and entertainment featuring a special performance. Celebrate American Veterans with singer/impressionist Kevin Adams. Also included is a trip to the Alabama Veterans Museum and Archives in Athens. Doors open 10:30AM, event begins 11:00AM with show time at 12:00PM. The show will last approximately 6075 minutes. Groups of all size welcome. Bus parking available. Cancellation fees may apply. Pre-reservation is required, so send your reservation email to Info@ YesterdaysEvents.com.

June 23rd, 24th & 25th -Athens Lions Club Kiddie Carnival. 309 East Forrest Street Athens, AL. Join the Athens Lions Club Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 6:30PM-9:30PM for 10 rides including a small Ferris wheel, rocket ships, swings, carousel, train, roller coaster, parachute rides, bigger swings, and the scrambler. Also, we have bingo. and delicious concessions are available.

We will serve sandwiches, French fries, popcorn, sno cones, funnel cakes, and drinks. Tokens to ride are just $0.50 each, and all monies go to local charities.

June 24th - 28th -- Cal Pipkin State Baseball Tournament.

Athens SportsPlex, U.S. Highway 31 Athens, AL. Approximately 30 teams from all over Alabama will compete during the Cal Ripkin State Baseball Tournament.

June 25th -- Saturday Supper with Belle Chevre.

Belle Chevre Cheese Shop and Tasting Room, 18849 Upper Fort Hampton Road, Elkmont, AL. Back by popular demand, Belle Chevre is again offering their Saturday Suppers cooked by our award-winning Chief Cheese Tasia Malakasis and Chef de Cuisine Rick Vonk. Saturday Suppers are

inspired by fresh, local ingredients, including Belle Chevre’s fine artisanal goat cheeses made in Alabama.

Southern-made 5-course meals that reflect Southern heritage and our passion for spreading love around meals. Two seating options are available: 5:30PM and 7:30PM. $75/ person. To view menu or make a reservation, visit http://www.bellechevre. com/creamery-toursevents/saturday-suppers-2/.

June 25th -- SingerSongwriters Night. The Red Caboose, 25483 Railroad Street Elkmont, AL. Join The Red Caboose for an evening of live music.

Doors open at 6:00PM, show starts at 7:00PM. Admission is $25.00 and includes snacks. Children age 12 and under are free.

For more information, performers and directions, visit TheRedCaboose.net.

June 26th - 30th -- SonWest Roundup VBS. Mays Memorial Baptist Church, 23636 AL-251, Toney, AL. Join the fun of Vacation Bible School and be part of the fun from 6:00PM-8:00PM. For more information, visit maysmemorial.org.

June 30th, July 1st & 2nd -- Athens Lions Club Kiddie Carnival.

309 East Forrest Street Athens, AL. Join the Athens Lions Club Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 6:30PM-9:30PM for 10 rides including a small Ferris wheel, rocket ships, swings, carousel, train, roller coaster, parachute rides, bigger swings, and the scrambler. Also, we have bingo. and delicious concessions are available.

We will serve sandwiches, French fries, popcorn, sno cones, funnel cakes, and drinks. Tokens to ride are just $0.50 each, and all monies go to local charities.

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Clean and Green

Couch To Duck & Run 5K: Why Not You?

by Lynne Hart Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful promotes a healthy environment. Part of creating a healthy environment is to promote healthy living. Our Duck & Run 5K and Fun Run not only raises funds for KALB projects and programs, it also promotes healthy activity.

I’d like to introduce you to our Duck & Run 5K and Fun Run Race Coordinator. Eric Patterson has been running for 9 years, and is extremely knowledgeable and experienced in the sport of running. More 5Ks than we can count have seen Eric pass the finish line. He finished the 2011 Boston Marathon, several 50K races, a 50-mile run, including finishing a 26.2 mile marathon in less than 3 hours.

Eric and his wife, Leigh (our office manager), have been coordinating our Duck & Run event for 7 years.

They took over from Tanjie Schrimsher, who created the event and started it on the road to success in 2004.

The 2016 Duck & Run will be held on Saturday, September 17th. Runners will

gather and start the race at Big Spring Memorial Park (the duck pond) in Athens. The race takes runners through historic neighborhoods and around the Courthouse Square, then back to Big Spring Memorial Park.

This race is a fundraiser for Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful. We are a freestanding 501(c)3 nonprofit and must raise almost half of our annual budget through fundraisers, memberships, donations, and sponsorships.

group increases accountability and increases the chance that you will stick to it and meet your goals." No previous running experience is necessary, but please check with your physician prior to starting any exercise program.

A Success Story Our own Leigh Patterson was diagnosed with diabetes about 6 months ago. Leigh began making lifestyle changes, including particiEric Patterson with Leigh Patterson, Julie Harbin, Kellie Jennings, Cady Stewart, Lindsay Anderson, Becky McFall, Perry Scott and Marian Cook after finishing the Spencer Black 5K Race on May 14th.

This was the 5K training group's goal race.

Still on the Couch?

That’s OK! If running a 5K is on your bucket list, there is a program just for you. Eric leads a 5K Training Program through the City of Athens Parks and Recreation Department to help beginners work up to participation in a 5K (3.1 mile) race. Eric is a native of Limestone County, a member of the Fleet Feet Racing Team, and a Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) certified running coach.

"Many people try to train on their own,” Eric Patterson said. “Some are successful.

However, training with a

could not have done this without the constant encouragement of the group.

I would have quit on my own." Not only did she complete the 5K, but she has lost weight and her blood sugars are back under control. pating in her husband’s running program. “I changed my diet, but that alone was not enough,” said Leigh. “I started training with Eric's 5K group, and in 10 weeks I literally came from the couch to finishing a 5K. I

Registration – 5K Training Program Registration is currently open through June 30th.

Kickoff meeting is July 7th and training will begin July 11th. Register for this training program through the City of Athens Parks and

Recreation Department at 256-233-8740. For more information about the program, contact Eric Patterson at ericdpatterson@yahoo.com.

Registration for Duck & Run 5K and Fun Run Registration is now open.

Early registration is $20.

Late and race day registration is $25. KALB members can receive a $5 discount when showing their current membership card. Visit www.KALBCares.com and click on the EVENTS tab for information and registration for this race.

Become a Fan

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

Starting Line at the 2015 Duck & Run 5K Race.

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June 3 - June 16, 2016

Cooking with Tammy

Juice Plus + Lemon Complete Energy Bites

by Tammy Wilkinson, owner of Arabella's Cakes and Catering

Juice Plus + Lemon Complete Energy Bites Looking for a healthy treat to take along to backyard barbeques this summer? Below is a recipe that is both nutritious and delicious! It’s also gluten and dairy free. It’s one of my favorites, to make and eat!

Ingredients: 1 cup almond butter 1 cup (3 scoops) Juice Plus+ Vanilla Complete Powder 1/3 cup honey (may substitute Agave nectar to remain vegan) 2/3 cup raw oatmeal 1 cup unsweetened, shredded coconut (divided) Juice of 2 lemons Zest of 2 lemons, or 1 teaspoon dried lemon peel Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a bowl, keeping back 1/3 cup of shredded coconut. Chill for 30 minutes. Roll into 1 inch balls. Roll balls in remaining coconut. Refrigerate.

June 3 - June 16, 2016

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Health and Fitness

Muscle Imbalances

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

Every joint in our body is surrounded by muscles that produce and control movement.

Sometimes muscles on one side of a joint become too tight from overuse, which then causes the muscles on the other side to become too weak from lack of use. This is called muscle imbalance. Muscle imbalances can potentially cause an injury. The right exercise program can improve your muscle strength and improve joint range of motion, both of which are necessary for eliminating muscle imbalances.

Below are six things that you should know about muscle imbalances.

1. Repetitive motions are one of the most common causes of muscle imbalances. Repetitive movements at work or performing the exact same exercises in every workout are two examples. If you have a job requiring repetitive motions, try to identify ways that you can make small changes to the movement to avoid imbalances. Also, change the

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exercises outs on a minimize veloping ances.

in your workregular basis to the risk of demuscle imbal-

2. Staying in a sedentary, seated position for an extended period of time can create muscle imbalances in your hips. When you are seated, your hips are flexed, which places the muscles that cause hip flexion in a shortened position. When the hip flexors are shortened, they will change the way the hip joints move. In addition, tight hip flexors reduce the activity to the gluteus maximus muscles which are responsible for extending the hips. This could be a cause of low back pain. If you spend a lot of time seated, look for opportunities to stand up, move around and try to keep your joints mobile and your hip muscles from becoming too tight.

3. Your driving position can result in muscle imbalances. Keeping one leg bent back or slouching while driving could cause the resting length of your muscles to change,

especially if you’re in the car for extended periods of time. Pay attention to how you sit and try to keep your body in a neutral position. If you’re taking a long car trip, stop to get out, move around and stretch.

4. Performing exercises in a single plane of motion can contribute to muscle imbalances because our body is designed to move through multiple planes of motion in many directions. To reduce this risk, make sure that your exercise program includes equal amounts of movements like pushing, pulling, or rotating, as well as moving sideways and in rotational directions.

5. Poor posture can result in muscle imbalances of the upper body, specifically the shoulders and upper back. For example, allowing your body to roll forward in a slouched position can cause shortness in the muscles of the shoulders, which creates unnecessary length in the muscles of the upper back. Using a computer keyboard or texting often

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can also encourage this slouched position. If this sounds familiar, exercises for core stability or performing pulling movements with your hands in a neutral position can help you stand taller (which also helps you to look slimmer without dropping any weight).

6. Frequently wearing shoes with heels higher than your toes could increase your risk for de-

veloping muscle imbalances in your feet, lower legs, hips and shoulders.

When your heels are in an elevated position, it can change the position of your knees. This, in turn, changes the position of your thigh bones, which, subsequently, changes the position of your spine and shoulders.

Elevated heels can also cause extreme tightness in the calves.

When your car has a tendency to pull to one side, it’s probably out of alignment and you need to see a mechanic. Likewise, with your body. A certified personal trainer has the skill set to help identify any muscle imbalances. These imbalances can be addressed with an appropriate exercise program that improves joint stability, mobility, and enhances overall movement efficiency.

June 3 - June 16, 2016

Cover Story

Athens Grease Festival Includes A Menu Of Music For All Tastes

by Holly Hollman Her lead guitarist is Hunter Jones, drummer is Drake Lopez and her bass guitarist is Garrett Browning. Fans can follow her musical journey on Facebook at Lillian Glanton Music.

continued from page 1

The entertainment recipe for the June 11 event is a mixture of genres: jazz, pop, county, bluegrass, rock, gospel, R&B, Latino and reggae.

“We call it our ‘deep fried’ music mix,” said Festival Chairwoman Robbin Hines. “We will have a little bit for everybody.”

The Spirit of Athens, a Main Street organization, hosts the festival as a tribute to the Greek origin of the city’s name and a celebration of all things fried. It also is a way to offer affordable family fun in historic downtown Athens.

Local American Idol contestant Lillian Glanton and her band, The Elk River Boys, are

among the music lineup.

“I am always excited to perform in my hometown,” Glanton said. “It means so much to me that everyone has been so supportive and encouraging.”

Glanton performed at the Spirit of Athens event

Fridays After Five last year before her American Idol debut. The teen grew up in western Limestone County on a farm and began taking guitar lessons at age 5. Glanton said she has had a busy schedule since being on Idol and has shows booked all summer. The Athens Grease Festival is an ideal time for her hometown to catch a performance.

“My band comes from right here in Limestone County, too,” she said.

Hines said Cool Bone Jazz Band will participate in the opening ceremonies. The festival is from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on The Square.

Opening ceremonies will start at 11:30 a.m. with Athena, members of her court, and event organizers parading around the event area.

In addition to music, event goers can sample fried concoctions such as fried deviled eggs stuffed with jalapeno pimento cheese and bacon made by LuVici’s and fried shrimp puppies made by Suzanne’s Bakery. The shrimp puppy is like a hushpuppy stuffed with shrimp with a sweet/heat flavor.

Other

activities

Toga Tidbits

Event: Athens Grease Festival Date: Saturday, June 11, 2016 Location: The Square in Athens, Ala. Times: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with opening ceremonies at 11:30 a.m.

Cost: $5 for adults, $4 for children ages 3-12 and free for ages 2 and younger.

Get $1 off admission by wearing a toga More Information: www.athensgreasefestival.com

June 3 - June 16, 2016

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in-

clude a toga contest, Dub’s Burger Eating Contest, frozen turkey toss, Kids’ Zone and mechanical bull. In addition, Keep AthensLimestone Beautiful will recycle the cooking grease, which is then used by farmers in their bio-fuel equipment.

Here is the list of entertainers (schedule of times to be determined): Cool Bone Jazz Band

Opening Ceremonies and Performance

Round Island Creek Male Chorus The Howling Strays Microwave Dave and the Nukes Ken Orr Matt Ennis Sound of Three TCU Band Living Legend Saxophone Diedra “The Alabama Blues Queen” Lillian Glanton and The Elk River Boys Kush

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June 3 - June 16, 2016

Cover Story

The 2016 Will Haney Foundation 5 K Race: Helping Others to “Finish Strong”

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

had a rare cancer called rhabdomyosarcoma (pronounced RAB-doh MY-oh Sar-COMA), and it normally strikes children. The battle is waged most often in muscles, other soft tissue and occasionally in the bones. He fought hard for 19 months. The stories of that unspeakably painful process, Will’s warrior spirit, and what the family has gone on to do to help others facing this and other cancers all stand as the inspiration for both this article and the 5K’s theme title, “Race of Champions.” It will be held on July 30th, which is the day after what would have been Will’s 40th birthday.

Heather came in for the interview with her friend Joe Sanford, who is like family to the Haneys and hearing them both speak about the impact that Will made on everyone made me look forward to meeting him when I shed this “earthly tent.” Let’s just say there was not a “dry eye in the place,” and it is my honor to tell Will’s story, as well as invite you to come and participate in the 5K. You don’t have to be an experienced runner, you can walk, and join with others in the community who are taking time out to help others “finish strong,” while they build their own health, spirit, and heart.

While Will was alive, the community did three fundraisers to help with the expenses of treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Remember, cancer does not just attack a person, it attacks their family, friends, church, and community. Heather said, “The good people of Limestone County helped Will, and our family, and in return we want to keep Will’s legacy alive by helping those in need.” Will’s cour-

June 3 - June 16, 2016

age and legacy affected even the medical staff who was treating him. Heather added, “Will’s doctor, Dr. Ravi, truly loved Will, and fought hard with him and for him. In fact, just before Will died, Dr. Ravi flew from Houston; he came to say good bye, hugged Will, got on the plane, and flew straight back to Houston to his other patients.” All I could say was, “Wow.” I asked them to tell me a bit about Will, and while it was a struggle to do so, they said,

“He was always concerned about others, and he never complained.” Joe said, “Will was so selfless,” and we all had to pause for a bit. Heather added that one of the things Will was dogmatic about that no matter what day he died on, he wanted his funeral to be the following Saturday, “so that no one would have to take time off from work.” What got to me was that Will took his last chemo treatment, which was especially brutal, and the reason was that he “didn’t want to ruin anyone’s Christmas.” He hung on, got through the holiday, and died in January. “He didn’t have to do that,” Joe and Heather said, “but he did that for us (his family and friends) because that’s just who he was.”

Heather went on to say, “Will was a jokester, and he had an infectious laugh.” In light of this recent Memorial Day, I also want to honor the fact that Will served our country as part of the U.S. Navy, and in my view, could very well be honored as a casualty in a vastly different, but nonethe-

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less deadly global war.

The Haney family, Joe, and others have carefully formed a non-profit organization called the Will Haney Foundation.

You can get more information regarding the foundation at www.willhaneyfoundation.

org. The purpose is to raise awareness of rhabdomyosarcoma and other cancers, raise funds for research, help families whose loved ones are fighting cancer, and provide scholarships for those choosing nursing as their career or participating in ROTC (because Will was a true patriot). Will was in the middle of getting his nursing degree when cancer cut him down. While the fight was on, “Will’s warriors” wore wrist bands with the words “Will Power” on them, and Will Power is what the Haneys want to strengthen and spread in our area, and beyond. I If you want to “get in the fight,” then come and join them on July 30th at 7 am. I have a feeling it just might change your life and give you more “Will Power.”

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Learning As A Lifestyle

We’re Off To See…

by Wanda Campbell

Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 Did you ever have one of those days when you wake up feeling great, look in the mirror and see yourself as 20 years younger? When I looked in the mirror this morning, my hair was brown again. When this feeling of the impossible hits me, I think of all the things I still have not seen.

At the Center for Lifelong Learning, we are planning a summer trip to the “enchanted forest.” On Friday, July 29, we will leave the Center at 8:00 am, headed to Montevallo, Alabama.

Montevallo, Alabama is in Shelby County, just south of Birmingham. It is the home of the University of Montevallo. And, according to Wikepedia, there is a plaque on Reynolds Cemetery Road that marks the geographic center of the State of Alabama.

But that is not why we are going. We are going to see the trees in Orr Park. Why would you want to go see the trees? As you walk along the park, you will be greeted by carvings of faces in the trees. This remarkable forest

of characters is a gift from Tim Tingle, a local artist who wanted to save as many trees as possible after a storm in 1993. Mr. Tingle only uses the dead trees, leaving the living ones to continue to grow. Today, there are over 30 sculptures in Orr Park courtesy of Mr. Tingle.

We are also going to visit the American Village in Montevallo. American Village opened in 1993 as a classroom for children. The goal of the Village was to help children understand

the principles of liberty and to understand our history. It is a civics classroom with re-enactments of great moments in history. American Village houses replicas of Mount Vernon, Independence Hall, and the Oval Office.

This trip will require a good bit of walking. You will be outside a good bit too, so remember to bring your personal fan.

This trip would be a good outing for families or for adventurous friends. The fee is only $55/person which includes a picnic lunch. The last day to register is June 30.

If you have not registered for summer camps at the Center for Lifelong Learning, now is the time.

Archery Camp is already filled, and several others only have a few spaces left. We have added a camp for older “kids,” too. CSI Camp is for 11th grade and up. It features a short course in forensics around blood, bones, and handwriting tools used to investigate. It sounds like so much fun, I want to attend myself. The fee is $55. Camp is scheduled Tuesday, June 28 – Thursday, June 30, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.

For more information about what is happening at the Center, call us at 256-233-8260 or visit our webpage – www.athens. edu/CLL. We make regular announcements on Facebook at Center for Lifelong Learning at Athens State University, and on Twitter and Instagram at CLLatAthensState.

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June 3 - June 16, 2016

What Makes Ronnie Roll

Ditching Distractions And Fighting Through Fears

by Ali Elizabeth Turner We met a day late, due to the Memorial Day Weekend. We both attended the fine program put on by the Vets’ Museum which was held at the Limestone County Event Center, complete with an address by Lt. General David Mann, a 21 gun salute, and the playing of Taps. “It was the biggest crowd we have ever had,” he said, and we were both glad we were there. The flags of the US and the State of Alabama had been appropriately flown at half-staff at City Hall, as well as throughout our area, and the flags displayed along Hwy 31 made us both proud of our town for making Memorial Day about more than kicking off the summer cook-out and vacation season.

He told me about the thrill he personally felt regarding various accomplishments by local students, from the awarding of a $180,000 scholarship to the Naval Academy to a graduating senior from Athens High School, to a 9th grader successfully negotiating with DEKKO to get the full $67,000 requested in a grant proposal she had helped craft. DEKKO had counter offered with $20,000, and as a result of all she had learned as a budding entrepreneur, she had the full requested amount in five minutes!

He told me about a move to get more teachers certified to teach AP (Advance Placement)

June 3 - June 16, 2016

classes, because we have more public high school students who qualify for college level work in a number of subjects than we have teachers to teach them. Mayor Ronnie also mentioned that on July 23rd, there will be a Senior Fun Day held at the Senior Center.

There will be a “day at the beach” theme, with skits, karaoke, therapy

vious are all the opportunities we have to get distracted through tweeting, Facebooking, emailing, texting, binge watching, phone calls, and procrastinating ad nauseam, but he told me that realizing that fear can be a distraction was something that really got his attention.

“I’m not talking about ‘ISIS’ kind of fear; that’s

legitimate,” he said, “I am talking about the distracting, internal fear that shuts down your dreams. For a recent high school graduate, if you are not dreaming big enough to be a bit nervous, you’re not dreaming big enough.”

I thought to myself, “I graduated from high school 45 years ago, and I still allow myself to get

distracted and not dream big enough. I need to pay attention, here.”

He went on. “There is a fear to fight through until you reach your goal, and fear that is clean.

Clean fear will make you choose the right people to be around, who share your dreams and values with so you don’t get pulled down and pulled away.” He added, “Don’t be afraid to ask for help; that’s a distracting fear, and one of the ways to fight fear is to give to others. It gets your focus off yourself.”

We could have stayed all day, but he finished his sermon with “Don’t be ‘feared’ into not dreaming, and not holding to your faith.” We then prayed, and it was time once again for Ronnie to roll.

dogs, and food. He was especially glad that the event would be local, rather than have to send our celebrating seniors elsewhere.

He moved on to other things that had particularly inspired him over the weekend, and what stood out the most was a sermon preached on Sunday morning re: “Distractions.” He essentially preached it again to me, and as they say, “we had church.”

The topic was the many forms of distraction that rob us of our purpose on this earth. The most ob-

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Dog Barker

Delicious And Nutritious!

by Joel Allen Ever wonder if dogs lack for nutrition? I often find myself amazed at how resilient a dog’s body can be, and how they are able to eat something and survive through the impossible. When cell phones were being built smaller, I read about a bulldog eating a cell phone, and just like those “urban legends,” the cell phone rang from inside the dog. That was how the owner found their missing cell phone!

Enough of that, though.

Let’s talk about nutrition and its importance for the dog.

I have found that through proper nutrition, some illnesses can be reversed that may have developed. An example is one of my Danes, Samson, has developed “wobblers.” I thought when this happened that we would lose him. He became so bad that I had to assist him when he went outside. I began to investigate his situation, and I decided I would try Dinovite. Dinovite is a multivitamin for dogs, and they have a cat version too. It is a bit pricey, but the benefits for your dog are very apparent after a couple of weeks. In Samson’s case, he was not able to keep his balance and was falling all the time. After being on Dinovite for two weeks, his balance became better. His falls stopped, and he was able to take care of himself. He has been on Dinovite for almost two years, and he has approximately 80 percent of his body functions back.

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There is another such secret that I have found to work well. Growing a garden, then adding the vegetables from that garden to your dog’s diet is very beneficial for your dog. In most cases, your dog will not just eat the vegetables raw. It will require some creative cooking on your part.

When I have a garden, that is what I do.

mixture warm.

Here is a simple recipe that anyone can add to or take from:

My Danes have been on this diet for years, and they have no growths or cancers. But then again, I also ensure that their dogfood has no cancer causing preservatives.

Things one can look for that cause cancer in the ingredients include BHA or BHT (both of which

Prepare 1 cup of rice, and put in large bowl after cooking Prepare 1 cup of oatmeal, and add to rice, mixing well Keep the rice/oatmeal

Put a cup of tomatoes, carrots, garlic clove, and just about any vegetable one can think of that is not toxic to dogs in a pan, but do not overcook.

Add gravy Add some, and I mean some, dog food and there is a complete meal for your dog

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are preservatives). This can be found also in some of our foods we purchase to eat, so beware.

Lastly, there is another product out there that is for humans called Juice Plus+, and some of the people who take this product give it to their dogs too. The reports are it really works! Here is one website that has all the information on this product: http://ja90528. juiceplus.com/content/ JuicePlus/en.html or try googling Juice Plus+.

So, those of you who have a dog that has taken ill, start looking at their nutrition. Some will have been on the cheap and bad dogfood

all their lives with no issues. But consider this: Zues is 7 years old, and his brother Samson is his litter mate. Neither have a cancer or growth on them. Zues has an umbilical hernia but that was from his mother biting the umbilical cord too closely. Have a great month, and we will see you again soon.

“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 June 3 - June 16, 2016

Jerry’s Journal

All God’s Dogs Going To Heaven

by Jerry Barksdale

Doggone it! It finally happened. The country has gone to the dogs.

I’m not talking about the lying, corrupt, political class in Washington who take and squander our money and impose laws on us and exempt themselves. No, I’m referring to tail-flapping, loafing, car chasing biscuit eaters. Since the beginning of time, dogs have mooched on the generosity of humans.

Now, they want to go to Heaven. Not Dog Heaven, mind you, but Baptist and Church of Christ Heaven.

Recently, I was listening to talk radio host, Matt Murphy, when a woman called and said God put dogs on Earth to teach us to love. (I thought Jesus came to do that, but I won’t be picky.) She said that dogs will go to heaven with their masters, and quoted scripture to back it up.

others. When I was a kid, we owned 17 foxhounds, two bird dogs and a yard dog. The hounds lived inside a wire pen attached to the side of the barn that resembled a Japanese labor camp.

The bird dogs slept under the house, and the yard dog slept on the front porch. They were fed cornbread every day-just like Mama fed us. That tasty Southern power food that makes our women smart, our men handsome, and our dogs fat.

The only good dog I know is Marley, my only granddoggy. She lives in Taos, New Mexico, with my daughter Shannon, and is the apple of my eye.

Okay, I admit I’m jeal-

ous of dogs. I’ve dated women who would rather stroke their dogs than me. How would that make you feel? I don’t approve of dogs’ wellknown laziness (“he’s lazy every day”). They don’t work or pay taxes or join ObamaCare. I say, sic the IRS on them.

Elvis took notice too.

“You ain’t nothing but a hound dog and you ain’t no friend of mine.” If Elvis said it, it’s gotta be true.

The radio caller’s statement raises many questions in my mind. If the master goes to hell, will the dog automatically follow? Or, what if the master has led a saintly life and his dog has spent his days chasing cars and biting joggers? Will the

Will there be cars and cats to chase in Heaven?

What about a leash law and dog pound? Who will pick up dog poop on the streets of gold?

Unitarians would do it happily, but I doubt any of them will be present.

I suggest Baptists. They are always doing good works, and no doubt would volunteer, provided they are fed plenty of fried chicken and potato salad.

Will dogs have to attend church on Earth in order to qualify for Heaven?

If so, will they have to tithe and attend Sunday School too? Instead of St. Peter, will dogs be met at the Pearly Gates

by a St. Bernard? Humans are the only form on Earth held to a strict moral code set forth in the Bible and similar writings. Why is that?

Why can dogs fornicate with impunity, and humans be sent to hell for the same behavior?

There has been a double standard for too long. If dogs are going to Heaven, they should have to stop fornicating, get a job, and walk the chalk line like the rest of us.

What about Muslim dogs?

Will they get 72 whelps on arrival in Heaven? Hindus believe when they die, they will be reincarnated and come back in a different life form.

Wouldn’t it be justice if a dog came back as a cat and is chased by a dog every day for eternity?

I hope to go to heaven when I die, but doggone it, I don’t want to be there with a pack of dogs scratching, licking their privates, and humping my leg. Anyway, I’m allergic to dog hair. I’m no Bible scholar, but I do know that dogs ate Jezebel.

That’s enough evidence for me. There are exceptions. My sweet granddoggy, Marley deserves to go to Heaven, along with seeing eye dogs, drug sniffers, bomb dogs, and K-9s.

I like dogs as well as the next fellow, as long as they don’t chase me when I walk, or come over and poop in my yard. But I don’t want to spend eternity stepping over dog poop and listening to a pack of hounds barking all night long. That sounds more like hell to me.

Heaven is supposed to be a place of tranquility and peace where a soul can escape that kind of annoyance.

I’ll stay tuned to Talk Radio. No telling what I can learn. No doubt cats will soon be meowing for a place in Heaven pretty soon.

I don’t dislike dogs – only those owned by

June 3 - June 16, 2016

bad dog get a free ride to Heaven on the master’s good record?

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Medical Update

Staying Active And Eating Healthy At Work

by Rachel Clark, RN, BSN

Obesity has become an epidemic in the U.S., but not in the traditional sense of the word. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention define an epidemic as “an increase, often sudden, in the number of cases of a disease above what is normally expected in that population in that area.” Usually, it refers to an infectious disease of some sort, but the term is now being redefined to include such chronic diseases as diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity as well as infectious diseases.

According to the America Heart Association, 78 million adults and 13 million children deal with the health and emotional effects of obesity.

Part of the problem is that our bodies aren’t getting the cues that trigger hunger and fullness. Another issue is the reward system in our brains promote eating, such as the olfactory and optic systems which prompt us to eat, whether we are hungry or not because we smell or see something pleasant.

Yet another is the lack of healthy dining options for people and families on the go. We all lead busy lives, and it is so easy to drive through the pickup window of your local fast food chain. Other issues include larger portion sizes, sweet/sugary drinks, unhealthy fats, and refined grains.

Given that the average American spends at least 40 hours per week at work, the workplace can either be a catalyst to

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healthy living or a derailment of a healthy lifestyle.

I know that for me, there are all kinds of temptations at work, including copious amounts of caffeine, soda, donuts, and candy of all sorts. Another major temptation is to work straight

The, add your greens to the top. When you dump it on a plate a lunch time, your salad is still as fresh as when you packed it. This is a great way to make several pre-made lunches for the week that you can grab and go without having to think about it. Another easy and time saving solution is leftovers from a healthy dinner you had the night before.

2. Take a protein shake for breakfast. This is the most important part of my day. The night before every work day, I use my Vitamix to make

through my 12 hour days without a lunch break, or worse, eating quickly so I can get back to work.

two shakes for the following day; one for breakfast in the morning and another for a healthy snack later on.

I use almond milk and/or coconut water, berries of some kind, greens, an avocado or banana, and Juice Plus Complete (a plantbased protein powder that is gluten and dairy free, low glycemic, vegan, and rich in fiber).

3. Pack a snack (or more than one if you need to). I often pack a granola bar of some kind (usually one of my favorites from the Juice Plus Company, either Tart Cherry and Honey or Dark Chocolate and Fig), nuts, cheese sticks, grapes, clementines, apples, or other fruit. This will often curb

my craving for something sweet, without all the unnecessary calories that come with candy and other sweet treats. It is also important that snacks be balanced. In addition to your fruit, eat protein. So if you have grapes, have a cheese stick as well. If you have apples, dip them in peanut (or almond, or other nut) butter. Have some nuts with your clementine.

Staying Active 1. Park at the farthest end of the parking lot, and walk.

2. Skip the elevator, and take the stairs instead.

3. Walk around your office during conference calls.

Use your wireless device to capitalize on the opportunity to get out of your chair.

4. Stand up at least every 60-90 minutes and stretch your muscles. Sitting for long periods puts stress on muscles and joints.

You could also set up a workstation where you can stand rather than sit.

Below you’ll find some tips for healthy meals at work, and ways to stay active in jobs that require a lot of sedentary activities.

Healthy Meals and Snacks

5. Take your lunch break outside. Use at least 5 minutes of it to walk around, soaking up the vitamin D, breathing fresh air, and stretching your legs.

1. Pack a lunch the night before. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or fancy. A turkey sandwich on whole grain bread with cheese, lettuce, and tomato (on the side so the bread doesn’t get soggy) is a great way to get protein, dairy, and veggies in. Another creative option is a salad in a jar. Pack it so that dressing is on the bottom, along with diced peppers, celery, cucumbers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes. You can also add in grilled chicken or other protein sources.

Get creative with ways to improve your health at work. Form a group that takes daily walking breaks together. Encourage each other. But most importantly, take control of your own health.

You’ll be glad you did, and you might even inspire the same in someone else.

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June 3 - June 16, 2016

Foreman’s Forum

Lessons For The Ladies: Part 2

by Paul Foreman

In the last edition, I talked about selecting a gun to fit a lady’s needs. If you missed it, you can go online at www.AthensNowAl.com.

Click on Foreman’s Forum just under the top of the front page.

Just this week, I had a lady in my pistol training class. She had bought a very nice Ruger snub nose revolver. Because her job sometimes takes her into questionable parts of town and exposes her to people she does not know, she feels the need to be properly trained. Bravo! Shooting a firearm and properly defending yourself is a lot more that just pointing and pulling the trigger. And the best part?

She wants to keep up her training and practice.

For anyone, ladies or men, to purchase a firearm, then put it on a top shelf and not touch it for the next ten years, is just not the way to stay safe.

This lady had concerns about how she was going to carry her firearm.

Several months ago, I wrote in this forum, “Don’t Let Your Gun Go Naked.” Everyone, ladies and men, needs to have a proper holster with which to carry your gun. With ladies, carrying a firearm often takes second place to fashion.

Yes, men are guilty of this too. Anyone who carries a concealed weapon needs to fit their clothing style to the gun, not the opposite. The ladies just cannot wear today’s form fitting skinny

June 3 - June 16, 2016

jeans and tank top and still expect to carry a gun and have it concealed.

On the other hand, today’s long flowing tops are perfect for concealing a firearm on your person. Overall, I do not recommend ladies carry their gun in a purse or handbag, however, there are exceptions. Carrying a firearm in your purse takes a very disciplined lady. The purse must never be left sitting anywhere. It is best to carry the purse across your body. The armed lady cannot lay her purse in the shopping cart. She cannot leave it lying on the front seat while she fills her tank with gas.

The concealed carry lady cannot lay the purse down ANYWHERE in which she does not have

total control over the purse holding her gun.

Does it sound like I am encouraging you NOT to carry in your purse?

It really depends on how careful and diligent you are while carrying a firearm.

access while driving a car. With ankle holsters, the pant leg needs to be loose and big enough to cover the holster and firearm. While in the car, the ankle holster is easily drawn from a sitting position.

Other than the cross body purse for ladies carrying concealed, there are some other very good and safe options. The lady I mentioned above is going to be in her car for hours at a time in mostly city driving. She plans to carry the purse’s strap across her shoulder and the purse, with firearm, sitting in her lap. If she sticks with this discipline, I think she will be fine. Another way to carry for the ladies is an ankle holster, which again would be fine for quick

A cross draw holster on the waist is another option for carry while driving. Again, it needs a cover garment such as an un-tucked blouse or jacket. The “strong hand” holster on your waist, whether right or left, can be difficult to draw from with a seatbelt. All of these options (strong side waist, cross draw waist, ankle or purse), can ONLY be safe and efficient if you PRACTICE!

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Back in the ‘90s, I was

a deputy in Lee County Florida. We were issued new holsters for our Glock 9mm pistols. The holsters were “high retention” holsters. A law enforcement officer’s greatest fear is having their gun snatched away by a criminal with deadly intentions. The Range Instructor told us to holster and draw 100 times, to lock in our muscle memory. There was only one way to draw from this holster which I will not write in detail here.

Attempting to draw any other way would result in the gun staying secure in the holster. After about the 50th practice draw, the cussing stopped and the deputies began to be able to draw their guns properly and very fast. You need to do the same with your holster, no matter where you carry it. Get trained and practice constantly.

Paul Foreman Is a retired Deputy Sheriff from Lee County, Florida. He is also a NRA Certified Pistol Instructor, AHA Certified Instructor in First Aid, CPR & AED.

For firearms training, Paul can be reached through e-mail at Captureman@PaulForeman. com or his web site, www.PaulForeman.com

Paul Foreman Retired Deputy Sheriff, Lee County Florida NRA Certified Pistol Instructor.

Paul can be reached through e-Mail at Captureman@ PaulForeman.com or his website www.PaulForeman.com

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