March 17, 2017

March 17th - April 6th, 2017

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

See Our Listings Inside this edition...

Pages 25 - 32

Limestone Health Spotlight Spotlight On Kathleen Hillis and Lorene Davis...

Kathleen Magnusson Hillis and Lorene Magnusson Davis were both born at home in...

Page 5

Slinkard On Success

The Athens-Limestone Hospital Foundation Annual Gala: Puttin’ On The Glitz, Old Hollywood Style

By Ali Elizabeth Turner For nearly two decades, the Athens-Limestone Hospital Foundation has sponsored an annual gala event for the purpose of raising funds for various needs at our award-winning 66-year old hospital. Some of Continued on page 15

What Impact Do You Want To Make On The World?...

What impact do you want to make on the world? It was an interesting question that was...

Page 9

Rocket City Barns And Buildings: Still The Cheapest And The Best

From The Vets' Museum Celebrating Women’s History Month “Honoring Trailblazing Women in Labor and Business”...

March is celebrated as National Women’s History Month in thousands of...

Page 10

March 17 - April 6, 2017

ALHS 2017 Gala Chair, Jessica Jones and her husband Randy

By Ali Elizabeth Turner

Rocket City Barns: the next generation

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It was the fall of 2015 when I first had the privilege of telling readers of Athens Now about Rocket City Barns, and few things give me more pleasure to know that since then they have significantly “increased their costs,” and Continued on pages 17

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March 17 - April 6, 2017

Publisher’s Point

Are You Second?

Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Copy Editor

Yvonne Dempsey

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Contributing Writers Janet Hunt Lynne Hart Sandra Thompson Deb Kitchenmaster Kimberly Hobbs D. A. Slinkard Jackie Warner Wanda Campbell Wendy Couch Paul Foreman

Last week I was visiting my friend Julie and her family in Orlando, having just had an incredible two days working at the National Religious Broadcasters’ convention. She asked me a very simple question: “Have you seen I Am Second?”

My answer was no, and she sat me down to show me a sample from the site. It would turn out to be something that has so deeply encouraged me that I knew I had to share it with you,

though they are at your kitchen table. They make it very clear that God is first and they are second, and they end their segment with “My name is so-and-so, and I am second.” Anyone can become a “second.” While the majority of people may be well known in their field, or be true celebrities who are household names, what is wonderfully jarring is the simple humility with which they tell their stories, on average in about seven minutes, and how quietly those stories seep into your soul and remind you that you are not alone.

Mike Huckabee talks about be-

Turner is a country music star, Stephen Baldwin is an actor, Bethany Hamilton is a surfer who lost her arm in a shark attack.

Each one of the stories of the famous folks is touching because it is so easy to think that fame and fortune equal happiness and a problem-free existence, and that is far from the case with these “seconds.” There are other stories of people whose lives were complete train wrecks, filled with crime, violence, prostitution, drugs, and while in a different way they light up the grace of God in neon, sometimes people who just have

ballast to what they have created, but I was not prepared for what I heard from film maker Alex Kendrick. Alex and his brother Stephen are the producers of Flywheel, Facing the Giants, Fireproof, Courageous, and War Room. Their success is an anomaly in the movie industry, but what I learned from Alex sitting in “the white chair” is that his own marriage was in trouble when Fireproof was being produced, and he actually had to apply the 40 day marriage challenge called The Love Dare to his own relationship with his wife. Alex had to come face-to-face with the fact

Alex Kendrick

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Limestone Health Spotlight . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 6 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 8 Slinkard on Success . . . . . 9 From The Vets' Museum . . . 10 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Kimberly . . . 13 Cover Stories . . . . . . 15 & 17 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 16 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . . 18 View From The Bridge . . . . 19 Horse Whispering . . . . . . . . 20 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Foreman's Forum . . . . . . . . 23

March 17 - April 6, 2017

and the more I hear people’s stories that have been a part of it, the more aware I am of how redeemable we can be if we let God love us.

I Am Second was started in Dallas by Norm Miller, the founder of Interstate Batteries. It was designed to strengthen believers in the DFW Metroplex area, and since then has become an international movement. The site, which can be found at iamsecond.com, is organized into topics such as anger, success, pornography, divorce abuse, drugs, fatherlessness, etc, and you can go straight to a topic or to the person who is telling their story.

It is a feast and a “life hack,” and I am a raving fan.

The format is elegantly simple.

People of all walks of life sit in a comfortable white chair and tell their stories and struggles as

Kathy Ireland

Scott Hamilton ing a political figure, but with deep tenderness speaks of his wife’s health challenges. Scott Hamilton talks about being an Olympic Gold medal skater, as well as his battle with testicular cancer. Kathy Ireland talks about being a super-model, and what it took for her to pursue true and lasting beauty from within. LeCrae is a rapper, Josh

“regular lives” (whatever that is) feel as though they have no testimony of worth. However, the “normal people” show up on I Am Second, too, and their stories are just as riveting.

I have always found that learning the back story of anything-a song, a book, or a person-invariably gives a depth and

that he wasn’t stepping up as a dad, and the call to fathers that is so beautifully portrayed in Courageous is in part based on his own life.

Alex knows that each story they produce is going to be harder and harder to do, and the cost will get deeper, no matter what return is garnered at the box office, but he is willing to be second, and he inspires me to be truly second. Will you join me?

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

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All Things Soldier

Misogynistic Marines?

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

There is an understandable flap over the recent disclosure that myriads of explicit photos of female Marines have been posted on a closed, secret Facebook account that apparently has a membership of over 30,000. There have been hearings on the Hill, the NCIS is investigating, and yes, it appears we have another scandal to handle.

Here are some statements made by officials with regard to positions and portending actions that are going to be taken: The chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives Armed Services Committee, Republican Mac Thornberry of Texas, and the panel's senior Democrat, Adam Smith of Washington State, separately called for a complete investigation. “Degrading behavior of this kind is entirely unacceptable," Thornberry said in a statement. "I expect the Marine Corps to investigate this matter fully with appropriate

consequences for those who willingly participated."

There are times when I feel like the little kid in the crowd who cries out in the fairy tale, “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” that the Emperor is indeed naked, much to the chagrin of the crowd. This is one of those times, and I realize I could very well be accused of “blaming the

victim” when I ask the obvious: “Honey(s), what in the ‘Billy Blue Sam Hill’ were you thinking when you either allowed the pictures to be taken or took them yourself in the first place? Did you have an expectation of privacy on Facebook???”

When I was in Iraq, there was a theatre wide regulation that was known as General Order

Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)

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Number One. The short version of the order was basically, “No booze, no porn, no proselytizing.” Did soldiers ever violate the booze/porn prohibition? Yep, right cleverly, I might add, and I locked horns with them when they did.

And, here’s my JAG question in the age of social media: Are the women who knowingly caused to be published explicit photos of themselves to be held culpable as well?

Should they be recipients of what Thornberry calls “appropriate consequences?”

Just to be clear, I am not in any way trying to be dismissive toward the dreadful comments that were posted underneath the pics. And anyone who knows me knows that I have no tolerance for true sexual harassment. I am not a “boys-will-be-boys” kind of gal. Allegedly there were threatening comments posted that sounded like something an “un-sub” would say under interrogation on an episode of Criminal Minds. There were also things like addresses, Social Security numbers, duty station locations, and more that constitute potential identity theft, which is a felony, and operational security violations, which can land you

in Leavenworth. There were also pictures that were taken unknowingly, and voyeurism, whether cyber or physical is inarguably illegal.

I genuinely felt bad for General Robert Neller as he was being grilled at a hearing by NY Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, (D) because in her estimation he had no good answer as to why no one had been punished yet. I couldn’t help but think, “Is he floundering because he wants to raise the issue of culpability on the part of the females for the source of the porn in the first place, but knows he’ll be excoriated as a misogynistic Marine?”

There is a problem here, to be sure. Men who behave viciously toward women, fellow Marines or civilians, do not deserve the title of Marine, and they do not exemplify “Semper Fi” because there’s no “forever faithful” to be found in that type of behavior.

And, if holding Marines to a higher standard is going to be insisted upon, then the Jarhead Janes need to take their lumps for sullying the saying on the recruitment posters of “The Few. The Proud. The Marines.” by flashing folks.

It swings both ways, Marines.

Now, clean it up.

March 17 - April 6, 2017

The Limestone Health Facility Spotlight On Kathleen Hillis and Lorene Davis

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Kathleen Magnusson Hillis and Lorene Magnusson Davis were both born at home in Ardmore.

Kathleen was born in 1922 and Lorene in 1924. Now, all these years later, they are roommates at Limestone Health Facility’s Senior Rehabilitation and Recovery Center. They are the daughters of O.W. and Ellis Magnusson. O.W. was a farmer, and according to Kathleen, “He raised everything—corn, cotton peas, sorghum, and peanuts.”

Later on he raised cattle, too. Both girls worked the farm hard, as was the case with every kid during the Great Depression, and Lorene’s husband was a farmer, too.

Lorene is the baby of the family, and she married at the age of 15.

Kathleen married at the ripe old age of 17. Kathleen made an interesting comment about her father when she said, “He wanted us to go

to college and get jobs.”

I asked, “But you both fell in love, right?” She smiled. Both Kathleen and Lorene were happily married, and each of them had one child.

Kathleen had a son, and Lorene had a daughter.

Kathleen went on to become a doctor’s assistant at Jackson Hospital in Lester, and Lorene worked the farm with her husband. Kathleen’s husband served in Europe during WWII, and Kathleen Hillis Lorene’s husband was exempt due to the fact shipping at the Church of Christ that “he got butchered when he got because that was her husband’s his appendix out, and he had flat church. They both love reading feet.” the Bible, and Kathleen especially The sisters were raised Methodist, but Kathleen spent her life fellow-

loves to read the book of Revelation. Kathleen enjoys reading the newspaper from front to back, and because Lorene was out in the fields a lot, she didn’t read much for pleasure. However, Lorene did read trade magazines that had to do with cattle.

This is the first time that I have gotten to do the “faves” section with more than one person in the same interview, and it was so much fun to hear sisters act like sisters with each other as they discussed their possible answers. Kathleen’s favorite color is purple, which she wore for the interview, and Lorene’s is red, which she wore as well. The one thing they share in common is that they both like to make and eat fried chicken. They are also big Dolly Parton fans.

However, they made me laugh when they talked about how, long after they were married and living on opposite corners of the same property, they would call each other on the phone when it was time for Dancing With The Stars, which was broadcast on WAAY 31. Kathleen told me, “I would be willing to miss a meal before I’d miss Dancing With The Stars.”

Their favorite United States Presi-

March 17 - April 6, 2017

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Lorene Davis

dent is Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

Lorene says that she appreciates how FDR took care of the soldiers.

As far as the biggest changes that have occurred in their lifetime, Kathleen says that she thinks it’s the invention of the TV, and Lorene says it was when all the soldiers came home from World War II.

I think the most interesting and entertaining thing about these two is that they yodel! They gave me a demonstration, and it made my day.

They love the care they are getting at the Limestone Health Facility and enjoy being there. Kathleen says, “I love the way they take care of us now that we can no longer take care of ourselves.” She and Lorene say that the food is good, and Kathleen’s favorite activity is bingo. “We love music, too,” she said, and Lorene said with enthusiasm, “Music is our middle name!”

I asked them what words of wisdom they would give to young people, and Kathleen said, “Be good, study hard, and stay out of trouble.” Lorene said, “Live a good life, stay out of trouble, and do the best you can.”

As we moved things about so we could take their picture, Kathleen looked at me and grinned, saying “We’ve had a good life.”

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Calendar of Events Felicia, La's Boutique, Made by Moira, Plunder Designs, Plexus.

Premier Women's Organization & Food Pantry First Saturday of Each Month

Terrarium Workshop Mar 26th

Prayer • Elderly Assistance • Feed The Hungry Clothes • Scholarships • Empowering Women Volunteers Wanted & Needed Call for Details -256.233.5995 Meeting Time: First Saturday of Each Month at 1:30pm Food pantry open now. wewoa.org • E-Mail: wew5995@gmail.com

Terrarium Workshop with 1818 Farms in Mooresville. During the workshop participants will learn the history of terrariums, planting steps and basic care. You will also learn which plants to use in open versus closed containers. Once construction is complete participants will select a miniature farm-or fairyinspired figurine to add your personal touch. Class is from 1:00pm - 3:00pm and cost $80.00 per person. Register at https://1818farms.myshopify.com/products/terrarium-workshop

Gardening Questions Answered Every Tuesday

Ribeye Steak Sandwich Fundraiser ​Mar 31st

Join the City of Athens Relay for Life team and the Limestone County Cattleman Association for a Ribeye Steak Sandwich Fundraiser at Friendship Church, 16479 Lucas Ferry Road in Athens from 11am-1pm. Cost is $10.00 for eat in or carry out.

Limestone County Master Gardeners Association (LCMGA) is available every Tuesday and the first Saturday of every month at Athens Limestone Public Library from 10 - 2 to answer gardening questions.

Welcome Spring At Mooresville Mercantile Mar 25th

Join Mooresville Mercantile in welcoming Spring by enjoying the crafters, artists, small businesses and community organizations that join them under the trees from 9:30AM to 2:00PM at 5081 Mooresville Road in Mooresville, AL. The Spring Gathering is being held in conjunction with the Sheep Shearing Day at 1818 Farms.

Companion Planting in the Garden Mar 25th

Limestone County Master Gardeners Association is offering a free presentation on Saturday, March 25th from 10am - 11am at Lowe's in the back of the Garden Center. Topic is "Companion Planting in the Garden". For more information visit our FB Page (Limestone County Al. Master Gardeners) or Jay Shaw at usnrete8@outlook.com or Janet Hunt at 256-614-3530.

Everyone is welcome!

Spring Craft and Vendor Fair Mar 25th

VVA Chapter 511, 17915 W. Elm St. Athens. 9am - 2pm. Free Admission! Door Prizes! Fun Saturday with crafts and unique items from local small business owners. Be ready for Spring and Easter with unique purchases. A great time to shop for a special gift. Booths include: It Works, Rodan & Fields, Paparazzi, Scentsy, Lularoe, Avon, Sassyjojo's, The Pink Room, Life Proof Lips with Chele, Norwex, Initials Inc., Pink Zebra, Tracie's Treasures, Body Sas Naturals, Younique, Door Hangers by Page 6

Athens April Historic Walking Tours Apr 1st - 29th

100 North Beaty Street, Athens, AL 35611. Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association host the Sweet Home Alabama April Saturday Walking Tours each Saturday in April. Attendees will be offered up to 4 simultaneous tours each Saturday to choose from.

Check-in is 9:45am at the Athens-Limestone Visitors Center and the walking tours are 1-2 hours in duration.

Rock and Walk For Babies Apr 29th

The TEARS Foundation provides compassionate assistance and ongoing support for bereaved families. Join us for our walk on Saturday, April 29th from 10-1 at the Athens Sportsplex. For more information or to register, visit www.thetearsfoundation. org/walks

2nd Annual Biker / Motorcycle Event Apr 29th

Point Mallard Park (large pavilion near wave pool), Decatur, AL. Get your motor runnin’… head out on the highway… looking for adventure? If that’s you (yes, it’s you!) come out and join us for a scenic ride, food and prizes. Hosted by the Decatur-based chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association (CMA). No fee is required but any donation appreciated. This is a Run for the Son (RFS) event whereby any donations collected will be 100% disbursed to CMA headquarters so it can be used to help spread the gospel of Jesus Christ, nationally and internationally.

8:30am-3pm with group ride at 9am, then lunch at approx noon.

Ride maps will be provided if you want to ride solo. More info: 256-509-2419.

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

For The Love Of Cities, Part 5

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Mayor Ronnie came zooming in, having just welcomed utilities workers from several states who were beginning their first day at a conference at Leak City. “I talked to them about working hard and having fun,” he said. He then added, “Those two ladies, the ones that turned 103 and 104 that I spoke to last week, you know what they said is the secret to their long life? ‘Make sure you have fun every day.’”

The mayor talked further about how risky it is for cities to take the “love approach” toward growth and wholeness, because people tend to look at love as soft and maybe spineless. The “love approach” is thought to be inappropriate. “The question is,” he said, “Why is it that love is out of place to talk about at the political

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level? Because we have political rhetoric and budgets, but a city is about far more than repairing streets,” he said. He finished with, “We run the risk of getting stuck at the bottom of the triangle.” By that he meant, never moving past having a city be safe and functional.

Enter the effect of the arts and festivals in the life of a city. “It is difficult to justify the role of the arts to some people,” the mayor said.

We talked about how, for example, refurbishing the Scout House, to the point that it even has a sound studio, could have a huge ripple effect. Kids could learn music, a skill that has been shown to help increase SAT scores. They could be part of a team. They could bring beauty to the community while building community.

The sound studio could be

one of the many outstanding small indie studios in North Alabama that rival anything in Nashville for a fraction of the price, and that would bring revenue to Athens. The question is how does that concept make sense when “the potholes are screaming?” As always, it is about balance, something with which all of our elected officials grapple.

We just had a successful 25th anniversary Poke Sallet Follies, this past Tuesday we had a St. Patrick’s Day dinner celebration at Athens State University, and once again a tour group from India is going to be visiting us because they love our city so much.

Besides setting aside funds to repurpose the Scout House, we also need to take personal responsibility

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when it comes to making our city lovable on an individual or community basis. City Councilman Chris Seibert recently spoke of a challenge set forth at Rotary to “Take 10 minutes to put your phone down. Slow down, walk your dog.” We could stand to return at least once a week to rocking on the front porch and actually visiting with each other.

“Visiting,” in the Southern sense, is a lost art that could use a revival.

Peter Kageyama, author of For The Love Of Cities, puts the need to make a city more lovable this way: “Government is not responsible for legislating happiness, but smart communities make it a little more likely to happen by their policy decisions. Communities have embraced the notion of becoming more

creative and innovative because they see the economic benefits of those characteristics. So, too, should enlightened cities recognize that happiness has economic benefits; happier citizens are healthier both physically and mentally, live longer, and enjoy more success at work.”

It was clear that there was a weight on the mayor’s shoulders, and that was the number of people who are battling cancer or families who had experienced unexpected deaths in their families. He had gotten a call in the wee hours of the morning about yet another loss.

So, we took time to pray for them, and then it was time for Ronnie to roll.

March 17 - April 6, 2017

Slinkard On Success

What Impact Do You Want To Make On The World?

by D. A. Slinkard D.A. Slinkard is the manager of the Athens Staples store What impact do you want to make on the world? It was an interesting question that was posed to me that has really got me thinking.

If you ask this question to a ten year old, the answer is going to be more heroic than if you were to ask this same question to a thirtyyear-old.

Sadly, somewhere between the lines of being a child and being forced into adulthood, we go from looking at life with a “no holds barred” mentality to one that stifles our innerchildhood dreams. Becoming the CEO of a company or the person who finds the cure for cancer succumbs to being a person worried at the dinner table because

there is more month left than there is money.

these responses are only excuses.

We go from living a potential glorious life ahead of us where we can be anything we want to be, to living a life where we are sick and tired of being sick and tired.

If this is you, then now is the time to make the change in your life necessary to be the person you were meant to be.

I knew a man growing up who decided he wanted to be a pastor and was going to live his childhood dream of bringing people closer to God. There were many naysayers who thought the man was ludicrous. How could he leave his comfy job to take up his cross and spread the word of Christ? He had put in nearly 20 years working for the local factory and he was nearing retirement age. This career move would be detrimental to his financial stability.

What’s the difference in your life now compared to when you were a child? Would the younger you be satisfied knowing the life you are living on a daily basis? If not, then why? I hear all kinds of answers as to why people cannot be the person they want to be because of varying reasons, but rest assured

Other people, who had given up on their dreams, were trying to get the man to give up on his. After all, he was 55 years old and wasn’t get-

ting any younger so why would he make the career move? Here’s where I want to challenge your thinking though. The average life expectancy of a person living in the United States is just over 78 years. Now do the math; if the person finally went after their passion at 55 years of age, and lived the average life expectancy, this means that person would spend 23 years living out their passion.

you can even use the side margin on this article. At the top I want you to write down what impact you want to have on the world.

Many people get up day-in and day-out to go to jobs they really don’t like to only come home and complete the rat race they have burrowed themselves into.

Does this sound familiar to you? I want you to take out a pen and piece of paper,

If you are someone reading this passage and are above the expected life expectancy, this article is for you too! We never know when our number is going to be called, and we should live each day as if it is our last because it may be. I have continuously heard people talking about living life with no regrets, but the more I think about the impact being made on the world, I have to question how many people are just lying when they say they have no regrets?

The answer you write down to this question is what you are passionate about and is what you need to aggressively go after in your lifetime. Below this answer I want you to calculate how many years you have left being able to live out this passion.

The time to start living your life needs to be today.

We all have consciously said we would start something tomorrow only to find an obstacle or two get into our way. Before we know it, tomorrow has turned into next week, next week into next month, and next month into, “If I was only younger.”

We get one shot at life and there is only one person standing in the way of our dreams, of our passions.

The person standing in the way of your dreams is you.

What impact are you going to make on the world?

March 17 - April 6, 2017

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From the Alabama Veterans’ Museum

Celebrating Women’s History Month “Honoring Trailblazing Women in Labor and Business”

by Sandra Thompson, Director, Alabama Veterans’ Museum March is celebrated as National Women’s History Month in thousands of communities and military bases throughout the world. This celebration, designated by joint resolutions of the House and Senate and proclamations by six American presidents, is an opportunity to honor and celebrate women’s historic achievements. The stories of women’s achievements are integral to the fabric of our history. Learning about women’s tenacity, courage, and creativity throughout the centuries is a tremendous source of strength. Knowing women’s stories provides essential role models for everyone. And role models are genuinely needed to face the extraordinary changes and unrelenting challenges of the 21st century.

retired, once as an Organizational Psychologist with the United States Air Force Research Laboratory and once as a Major General (2Star) in the United States Army Reserve. With 34 years of active and reserve service, Paulette was the first woman to command an Army Special Operations unit as a flag-officer. When she returned to active duty in 2002, she served as the President of the Joint Special Operations University.

Upon leaving active duty, Paulette joined Booz Allen Hamilton and led their Organization, Strategy, and Learning team in Hunts-

ville for three years. Additionally, Paulette served as the Principal Director for Huntsville Operations for DigiFlight, Inc.

veterans as valued members of their workforce.

Paulette also manages a generous grant from the Call of Duty Endowment.

Today, Paulette serves as the Program Director for Veteran Employment Services with Still Serving Veterans (SSV), a Huntsville-based nonprofit dedicated to helping Veterans and their families successfully transition and integrate into the community and civilian work.

Paulette's primary focus is on assisting veterans in finding meaningful work and assisting employers in welcoming and retaining

Paulette holds Master's Degrees in Psychology and Education. She is also a certified web designer and True Colors Facilitator/Trainer. Paulette is a member of the Women's Economic Development Council (WEDC), the Association of the United States Army, the Association for Talent Development, the National Career Development Association, and the National Defense Industrial Association.

She is also a member of Women in Defense and was awarded their national 2015 Service to the Flag Award. Paulette serves as the Employment Committee Co-Chair of the Alabama Veterans Network (AlaVetNet), a Governor’s Commission challenged with building public-private partnerships to meet the needs of Alabama’s large veteran population. She also serves on the Alabama Small Business Advisory Commission and is an alumna of Leadership Huntsville Masters Class 7.

As the country celebrates nationally, locally we will be celebrating our female veterans. The 2017 theme for National Women’s History Month – “Honoring Trailblazing Women in Labor and Business” – honors women who have successfully challenged the role of women in both business and the paid labor force. Women have always worked, but often their work has been undervalued and unpaid. I can think of no one more deserving to be recognized for her service in both the United States Army Reserve and also in the civilian sector than Major General Paulette Risher!

Paulette Risher is twice

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Clean and Green

Take A Stand Against Litter

by Lynne Hart

We in the KALB office often hear words of thanks for all that is accomplished through our organization each year.

We really don’t deserve the thanks. It is our volunteers that answer our calls.

just roll them down this hill into the river? Why shouldn’t I leave all these beer bottles in the woods after I’ve partied with my friends? Why would I want to properly dispose of all that tangled fishing line when I can just leave it on the river bank?

Why should I trash my car when I can just toss

Volunteers armed and ready to go

We recently called for volunteers to come out and help with our Elk River Cleanup on March 4th. As always, our call was answered and great work was accomplished.

Fifty-seven volunteers braved the cold morning, which turned into a beautiful, sunny day, to pick up other people’s trash.

Throughout the year, we have dedicated groups and individuals who participate in the Adopt-ASpot program by cleaning up a stretch of roadway in the city or county on a routine basis. You don’t always see these volunteers, but they are out there quietly working to make our communities better.

There are also people living in our communities who only think of themselves by asking these questions: Can I save the few dollars it would cost to take my trash to the transfer station by just tossing it down a ravine?

Can I pocket the money I charged the homeowner to properly dispose of old roofing shingles if I just dump them under the bridge? It’s just too far to go to take my tires to the Limestone County district tool shed to be properly recycled; so should I

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Girl Scout Troop 1134 telling the world what they think of litter Handing out trash bags, gloves, and litter grabbers this fast food bag and drink bottle out the window?

If any of the people who ask those questions had someone to answer them, they may or may not have changed their mind about how to proceed.

It is the duty of those of us who do know the answers to these questions to speak up. If you see someone dumping trash, report it.

If you see someone litter from their vehicle, report it to us. We work with the Athens Police Department and the Limestone County

Sheriff Department to help track down offenders.

The volunteers who came out to help clean up the Elk River removed 7,380 lbs. of trash and debris from the river and surrounding land areas. A portion was loose trash that washed up from the water. Most of it consisted of things like TV sets, tires, mattresses, carpet, bags of trash, dead animals and much more.

These items ended up at the river as a result of someone’s laziness, ignorance, or just lack of pride.

On behalf of the KALB

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Commission, I thank those of you who came out to help with the river cleanup this year, and those who have adopted an area of their community to clean.

Athens and Limestone County are filled with good people willing to do the dirty work of cleaning up after others. We thank you.

Be a voice. If you see

something, say something. You can report littering and illegal dumping by using our online reporting, by email, or by phone. Visit our website at http://kalbcares.com to find the online report under the Litter Control tab.

Take a stand against a littered community. It truly matters.

Become a Fan

(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com March 17 - April 6, 2017

Cooking with Kimberly

Old Fashioned Butter Roll

by Kimberly Hobbs

2 C self rising flour 1 C shortening 1/2 C milk

2 sticks of butter, softened 1/2 C sugar

Vanilla Sauce 2 C milk 2/3 C sugar 11/2 tsp.Vanilla

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Grease a casserole dish with butter.

In a large bowl mix flour and shortening until mixture resembles crumbs. Add milk and form dough into a ball.

Roll dough out onto a floured surface to 1/2 in thick. Roll into a rectangle. Spread butter onto the dough and top with sugar.

Fold the dough over twice. It will look like a fold, not a roll.

In a saucepan, add milk, sugar, and vanilla just to a boil. Pour over the butter roll.

Bake 40-45 minutes until golden brown.

Enjoy

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Cover Story

The Athens-Limestone Hospital Foundation Annual Gala: Puttin’ On The Glitz, Old Hollywood Style

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

the proceeds from previous galas have paid for the Jackson surgical table, a mobile C-arm surgical platform, the “Smart beds,” which can tell if patients have gotten out of bed, and other upgrades. This year, the Foundation’s focus is the new Outpatient Surgery Center. As Leah Beth McNutt, who works for the Foundation stated, “While keeping the pace with technological advancements in healthcare, we are maintaining the ‘hometown’ atmosphere that makes us the hospital we are today!” All of that takes money, and Putting On The Glitz is a memorable way to meet some important needs in our community for years to come.

The Gala will be held on Saturday, April 29th at the Westin Hotel at Bridge Street, and if you have never walked a red carpet, this will be your chance. Upon entering the hotel lobby, there will be a photo op backdrop custom designed to look like those you would see at a televised awards ceremony.

It will have the logos of the Foundation, the Gala, and the sponsors for the event. The theme of the evening is “Old Hollywood Style,” and as far as fashion is concerned, anything out of the ‘40s will be perfect. This is an evening where a tux and evening gown is appropriate, as is a streetlength cocktail dress and a suit, or dressy casual, either gender. The room can hold 300 plus people, and will be filled; so you need to get your reservations right away.

There will be a beautiful meal, a silent auction, and the eve-

March 17 - April 6, 2017

ning will be finished with dancing which will last until 11 p.m.

I spoke with Jessica Jones, the Chair of the Gala, who also works for Federal Mogul, one of the sponsors of the event. She became involved several years ago as a volunteer, and has a vision for this event. “I want to see new faces, the new generation coming up becoming invested in the hospital.” We discussed the fact that it’s time for the younger ones to step up if they are going to have a stake in the hospital’s future. Leah

item, still to be determined.

The list of items from last year is an example of the kinds of things that are available at the auction, but the sponsored items for this year are still being gathered. Leah Beth had the following to say with the hope of inspiring you to call her office to make your reservation:

Monica Nelson and Cecilia Hargrove at Puttin' On The Glitz Beth McNutt said, “Our goal is to make the whole town invested in the hospital, to rally behind the projects.”

Sample of 2016 silent auction items: Yeti Cooler Big Green Egg K2 30 Quart Cooler 2 tickets to Alabama vs. W. Kentucky Signed Rashad Johnson Football Guitar signed by Alabama Shakes Set of Rocking Chairs One 8x8 Painting of your canine family member Custom Framing worth $500 Set of Brighton Jewelry Men’s Citizen Eco-Drive Watch Lafonn Simulant 18” Necklace Gabriel Silver and Crystal Bangles Avindy Square Halo Earrings 36” Black Diamond Necklace Small Cedar Street Hayden Bag Vera Bradley Overnight Bag Bebe Sunglasses $500.00 Airline Voucher Windward Pointe Condo Grand Panama Beach Resort, 3 night stay Utah Alpine Ski Resort Cancun Paradise Vacation 1 hour massage Westin Hotel Basket Ion Active Power Treatment

was a guitar donated by Railroad Bazaar and autographed by the Alabama Shakes. This year, once again, Brittany Howard of the Shakes will donate a special

“We are excited to be part of the largest healthcare project of its kind thus far in our area.

We hope you will join us as a partner for our 2017 Gala, Puttin’ on the Glitz, Old Hollywood Style!”

To make reservations, or for more information call Leah Beth McNutt at the Foundation office at 256-233-9557.

One of the things that has made the Gala a success in years gone by is the silent auction, and this year will be no exception. In the past there have been trips, luxury hand bags, jewelry, items from Bridge Street stores, custom framing, a Yeti cooler and more. Last year the hit of the night was a gorgeous Labrador mix by the name of Buddy. Buddy didn’t come empty handed; he had a number of extras to sweeten the deal. They included: a cage worth $150, the cost of being neutered, toys, and an underground electric fence system. All in all he was worth close to $2,000, and this year we are hoping there will be another beautiful rescue dog for someone to take home.

In addition, last year there was a Green Egg cooker system, college basketball tickets, $500 worth of graphic design, furniture, home décor, lamps, a mirror, a pair of rocking chairs, and much more. Another highlight

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Health and Fitness

Organic Vs. Natural

by Janet Hunt

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

What's the difference between organic and natural? Isn't "natural food" just as safe and healthy as organic food? Unfortunately, natural does not mean organic and comes with no guarantees.

"Natural foods" are often assumed to be foods that are minimally processed and do not contain any hormones, antibiotics or artificial flavors. In the United States, however, neither the FDA nor the USDA has rules or regulations for products labeled "natural." As a result, food manufacturers often place a "natural" label on foods containing heavily processed ingredients. This is one of those marketing ploys I frequently refer to!

What about organic? Organic is the most heavily regulated food system.

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Only organic guarantees that no toxic synthetic pesticides, toxic synthetic herbicides, or chemical NPK (nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium) fertilizers are used in production, and no antibiotics or growth hormones are given to animals. Organic producers and processors also are subject to rigorous announced - and unannounced - certification inspections by third-party inspectors to ensure that they are producing and processing organic products in a manner you and your family can trust.

But are organic foods really better for you or worth the price? Your chances of getting pesticide residues are much less with organic food, but even so, the amount of man-made pesticide

residues found in conventional foods is still well below the level that the Environmental Protection Agency has deemed unsafe. The real issue is whether these small doses, over time, might add up to an increased health risk down the line. Who knows?

We are the guinea pigs.

Another concern is the use of manure as a fertilizer. Some say this might increase the risk of contamination of E. coli.

As far as organic foods being more nutritious than natural or conventional foods – no one can say for sure. A few studies have reported higher levels of some minerals, vitamin C and antioxidants, but the differences are so small they have no impact in overall nu-

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trition.

As usual, I suggest you do some research. If a food says that it is natural, read the label and see what it “really” means. If

you are concerned about pesticides, definitely select organic products. If you are most concerned about nutrition – read labels.

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Cover Story

Rocket City Barns And Buildings: Still The Cheapest And The Best

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

by grace have done their part to defy the Great Recession. In other words, they are thriving and flourishing.

Rocket City is several things, including a successful “buyhere-pay-here” pre-owned auto lot on Hwy 72 called Rocket City Motors, and they carry the Cotton States barns and Metal Max buildings there as well. Rocket City Barns West is located on

Toronto. She wasn’t sure what she wanted to do; so she came to the States and also became a Mobile Certified Electrician.

Marcy and Daniel met when they were both working at a major auto dealership in Decatur. Both were single parents who married and blended their families a year later, and Marcy started the Rocket City Motors “buy-here-pay-here” auto dealership, as well as the barn dealership. Daniel is quick to note that Marcy started the

ton States, and the buildings are built by Mennonites here in Alabama. It is possible to rent to own the cabins and barns, and there is no down payment required for barns up to 12’x32’. Rocket City is the only barn dealer that will make it possible to get in for zero down. Rocket City/Cotton States will also match any price lower than theirs. They absolutely guarantee that they have the lowest prices.

People use the cabins for ev-

boxed eave and vertical carports, garages and barns ranging in size from 12’x21’ to 48’x100’. They come in 14 standard colors and 5 premium colors. They can be installed on bare ground or cement, but the surface must be level.

Rocket City will oversee all aspects of delivery and set up. It costs 25K on average to stickbuild a garage, and you can figure on any of the Metal Max buildings costing less than half their stick-built counterparts.

and includes two swings, a gang plank, a trapeze bar, steering wheel, ladder, telescope, and a slide. The Backyard Playsets are also rent to own, and they as well as the Metal Max buildings require a small down payment, depending on the size of the building.

If you are in need of a cabin or storage building, a portable metal structure or a playset for your children, you need look no further than Rocket City Barns for the best!

Marcy and Daniel Baker of Rocket City Barns

Hwy 72 near Collins Supply, and now there are two more new locations. Rocket City Barns is now in Huntsville as well as Guntersville, and they still stand by their promise of being the “cheapest and the best.” If you can find a comparably built cabin, barn or metal building for less, Rocket City will meet that price.

Now for a bit of story about Marcy Baker, the owner, and her husband, Daniel. Marcy was born in Canada, and got her degree in computer science from the University of

March 17 - April 6, 2017

businesses, is the owner of the businesses, and Rocket City is “on the radar” with several suppliers as an outstanding female-owned business.

What I enjoy about Marcy is that while she is clearly a talented, experienced, and motivated entrepreneur, her husband and family are definitely her priority, and her faith is her foundation. She is hard-working, smart, funny and fun, and it’s obvious she enjoys what she does.

With regard to the barns, the parent company is Cot-

erything from storage sheds to at-home offices to actual homes, reflecting the current popular trend in housing. There are also garages, and they can be built with lofts if so desired.

Cotton States/Rocket City Barns will deliver and set them up nearly anywhere, including in RV parks. Sometimes Rocket City gets re-pos, and there are significant savings for paying off early.

New to Rocket City Barns is a brand of metal buildings known as Metal Max. They have Rent-To-Own regular,

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“In fact,” Daniel said, “A very nice two car garage runs only about $5,000. He also stated that, “The sales of the Metal Max buildings have just taken off, and that’s one of the reasons we have two new locations.”

The third new development at Rocket City is playground equipment made by Backyard Playsets. They range in price from $1399 to the large Ark, which is $4495. The large Ark is on display at Rocket City Barns East, located at 26912 Hwy 72, Athens, AL 35613,

Rocket City Barns East

26912 Hwy 72, Athens, AL 35611 near East Limestone Road

Rocket City Barns West 17486 Hwy 72, Athens, AL 35613 next to Collins Supply

Phone: 256-221-7062 Web: www.rocketcity barns.com Facebook: Rocket City Barns Page 17

Learning As A Lifestyle

It’s Not Rocket Science

by Wanda Campbell

Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 I recently had to give a speech to a group of high school seniors who were interested in leadership. Here is what I said to them: “I am honored to be asked to talk with you today. The title of my presentation is ‘It’s Not Rocket Science.’ Today I want to talk with you about business etiquette and business ethics.

You are probably sitting there thinking this is going to be so boring. But this subject is not about ‘Please’ and ‘Thank you.’ It is not as easy as it seems.”

About now I am wondering why I said ‘Yes’ to this request. Boy,

there was a room full of zombie faces – no smiles, no nods, no interaction at all. So I continued……

to your customer, and sometimes you are selling yourself to a boss or co-worker.

“As adults, you will spend more than half of your life at the office.

Etiquette is all about making those hours as pleasant and productive as possible. Ethics is about the process of learning what is right or wrong then doing the right thing.

“Good salesmanship is empathetic.

Empathy means you can identify the feelings, thoughts and attitudes of others.

If I am watching television or reading a book, and really getting into, the character throws a punch and I stand up and throw a punch too, that’s empathy.

“I know, you know that all business is people business – no matter where you work, you will be involved with people.

In the people business, everyone is your customer. Sometimes you are selling something

“This is not to be confused with sympathy.

Sympathy is agreeing with the feelings of others. When someone gets hurt and we feel sorry about it – that is sympathy.

“And, empathy is not to be confused with action.

If someone has a rotten attitude, it is not an excuse to have a rotten attitude too. Empathy is a feeling.”

I did get a little laugh here but I am still not sure they know what I am talking about. So I continued…..

“Let’s start with the basics – ‘Please’ and “Thank you’ are important. Remember to use them in your everyday meetings and encounters. A smile, a sincere handshake, and a kind word all provide important introductions and reminders of encounters.

Schmoozing a little is

the first step to building rapport. And listening is the secret to successful schmoozing. These basics tell others you are interested in them and value them. A little small talk can give you increased visibility in the workplace. And this is how it starts.”

The hardest part of this speech was not knowing whether or not anything I said got through.

Blank stares followed me through the whole presentation, and I wonder what I should have said differently.

But, you never know how much you influence someone, especially teenagers.

T i A D J I i w y t O b t i i p w e a p u e

I t d a

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The View From The Bridge

You Have To Value The Next Step

by Jackie Warner Jackie Warner

Community Outreach “Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters

This past weekend I was invited to take part in the Alabama-Mississippi District Meeting for the Junior Optimist Club.

It was such a rewarding opportunity to speak with the large group of youth who have made the commitment to be Optimist Club members. I shared with them the importance of starting with self and thinking critically about their pathways to success, with a reminder that each of them are unique and must define their path, not getting caught up following someone else’s plan of action.

I emphasized the fact that a step in the right direction meant truly realizing the right course

of action for successful future growth. The students’ weekend was full of activities that exuded the purpose of the optimist club, and I have to say I was very proud to be amongst our Junior Optimist Club members.

Last year was my first involvement with the Athens Chapter of the Optimist Club. I was so impressed by the work of our Athens Chapter that I became a member. If you are not familiar with the work of the Optimist Club, then you must take a moment to find out more. It is a wonderful organization serving youth in the community. Be a member or a contributor; you will truly be blessed!

As I concluded my presentation with the youth at their district meeting,

I called to their attention the following: • Develop a plan of action based on you and not others.

Everyone’s plan is unique in it own way.

• Establish and execute smart goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, & Time based).

• A step in the right direction is purposeful and intentional for long-term success.

• Alignment and Preparation makes the steps easier to see.

• The key is to VALUE the step… Don’t just step…

As an Optimist Club member you March 17 - April 6, 2017

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are to be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

The Optimist Club Mission: By providing hope and positive vision, Optimist bring out the best in youth, our communities and ourselves.

Website: http://www. optimist.org/ClubDetail. cfm?club=29004 Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional Jackie Warner, Community Outreach Specialist Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com Check out upcoming events: http://thebridgeus.yolasite.com/

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Horse Whispering

Spring Ahead Into Focus

by Deb Kitchenmaster A spotlight has been on a particular word in my own personal life since the beginning of the New Year. The word is FOCUS. While developing a schedule for a couple of horses and my own personal goals, I read this quote from natural horsemanship expert Pat Parelli, “Focus gives you feel. Focus and feel give you timing. Focus, feel and timing give you balance.”

As spring break is here and the official first day of spring on the 20th of March arrives, there are events to be scheduled on our calendars, tasks at hand, and goals to set.

Getting the tack cleaned up, making certain the leathers are strong, replacing those that aren’t. You focus on building your own natural horsemanship and move forward to develop a plan that will take your horse’s confidence to another level.

FOCUS is defined as: center, heart, focal point, center of attention, (get this) spotlight, and meeting point.

So what is the center or the heart of focus? Where is the meeting point? The meeting point is awareness. It is awareness that brings a new focus to us in understanding our horse. Understanding creates and builds a partnership between you and your horse. This canter (3 beat rhythms) of awareness, focus and understanding initiates, strengthens, and builds amazing partnerships – whether it is with our horse or another person.

ing simply means a mistake, an error, a mix-up, a misinterpretation, a quarrel, or a misapprehension. When we have a misunderstanding with our horse usually we will avoid, punish, ignore, or replace the horse. Sad to say, we do the same with people.

Natural horsemanship always begins by understanding any problem from the horse’s point of view. Dear God, wonder what our families and communities would be like if I/we chose natural horsemanship with people! I’m just thinking out loud, one of my many weaknesses.

and ability to evoke emotion in humans. Breakthrough after breakthrough is happening in people’s lives because of those who are devoted and committed to face mental health issues. EAP (Equine Assisted Psychotherapy) uses a horse as a form of therapy for an individual who is experiencing

horse, simply remember you are in the presence of an amazing teacher who teaches without judgment. We all

You see, horses are naturally fearful, claustrophobic animals whose main defense is to run away. Understanding this, I can address a problem or an issue with my horse, refraining from punishing him for his natural reaction/behavior. Next, I can take steps to change my approach and my behavior in order to gain or regain my horse’s confidence in me.

Horses are wonderful partners, due to their intuitive nature is primarily ground-based, a non-riding experience.

tend to need refresher classes with leadership, love and language. Your horse is a ‘natural’ teacher of these three classes.

So, here we have a fearful, claustrophobic horse. A human comes into the horse’s Have Fun life with awareness, focus Be Objective and understanding; building a

(purpose) partnership. From this partnerConfidence ship something unexplainable, Grow marinated in wonder, begins Say Yes to Understanding to take place. Healing; like a salve, a gentle breeze, a sip #1 Priority Safety of refreshing water silently shifts and anchors feelings Your NEIGHbor, Deb Kitchenmaster of strength and confidence in place of suffered abuse, low Corral Connections self-esteem, communication www.corralconnections.com issues, depression or anxiety.

256-426-7947 As you move forward into Animal B.E.S.T. practitioner spring and being with your dkitchenmaster@mchsi.com

Have you been in a relationship with someone and no longer are? We all have. At one point a misunderstanding became the center, and we became disconnected to some degree. Misunderstand-

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depression, anxiety, communication issues or suffering from low self-esteem. Horses accentuate our struggles while they accept us without judgment. Horses are amazingly adept at revealing pieces of trauma that our unconscious mind hides. The involvement with the horse in this setting

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Medical Update

Alternative Therapies: A Proactive Approach to Managing Fibromyalgia

by Wendy Couch Often times when we are in pain our automatic response is going to our family physicians and accepting whatever pill they give us. Don’t get me wrong, many times it is needed and fixes whatever is ailing us. However, there are many instances where alternative therapies can play a key role in managing chronic pain, for example, fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a common syndrome in which a person has long term, body-wide pain and tenderness in the joints, muscles, tendons and other soft tissues. Fibromyalgia has also been linked to fatigue, sleep problems, headaches, depression, and anxiety.

massage treatments have been reported for years to reduce chronic pain associated with fibromyalgia. It is important to understand when treating any chronic pain there is no quick fix.

It takes time as well as tolerance to reach the goal of “pain management�. It is important to work with a therapist who is familiar with your condition, and can approach your treatment sessions with experience and knowledge. Having a better understanding of how massage therapy can help in the case of fibromyalgia would literally require an anatomy and pathology lecture.

plays an important role in the determination of the extent of muscle stretch and contraction. It is very important to understand that fascia also provides pathways for nerves and blood vessels. In cases of fibromyalgia, due to the muscles being in a state of prolonged pathological hypertonus, (or overuse,) fascia becomes tense, causing compression of muscle fibers, nerve tissue and blood vessels. This will cause strain on muscles and tendons, and will always create inflammation. Massage Therapy will not only reduce mental stress but muscular stress!

But to put it simply, muscles are surrounded by fascia. This connective tissue

A few other options for managing your fibromyalgia pain are ionic detoxifi-

cation and infrared therapy.

Fibromyalgia is a reaction to a low-grade inflammatory condition of the muscles, fascia, and other connective tissues. This inflammation can be caused by a number of factors, including stress, hormonal changes, and even toxic chemical exposure. Ionic detoxification reduces the levels of toxins in your body, thus reducing the pain that is the result of those toxins. Individuals who detox have seen a reduction in pain and stiffness associated with arthritis, better sleep habits, and overall well being.

Infrared therapy can be very helpful reducing pain, although it may only help for a short period. The deep heat from Infrared therapy

can reduce the amount of lactic acid build up in the muscles which can make you stiff and sore. Infrared therapy comes in many forms such as saunas, lamps, and hand held devices.

Managing fibromyalgia can be difficult, but it is my opinion that combining multiple therapies, along with exercise and a healthy diet will bring aid in managing chronic pain.

For more information about fibromyalgia treatment plans, please call Wendy Couch at 256-3744127.

Medical Massage Therapy 109 Marion Street Athens, Alabama 35613

According to a Mayo clinic staff writer, symptoms sometimes begin after a physical trauma, surgery, infection or significant psychological stress. In other cases, symptoms gradually accumulate over time with no single triggering event. Research has shown that women are more likely than men to develop fibromyalgia.

While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, a variety of medications can help control symptoms. But even more important is knowing how exercise, relaxation and stress-reduction measures also may help.

There are several therapies than can assist in managing the chronic pain associated with fibromyalgia. One of the most popular therapies is massage therapy. Series of

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Foreman’s Forum

How To Behave When Pulled Over By The Police

by Paul Foreman There has been a lot in the news lately about the police “mistreating” people at traffic stops. Maybe I’m preaching to the choir here.

Readers of Athens Now are most likely already well informed about how to behave around police officers.

I hope the readers might pass this article on to their teens before they get behind the wheel for the first time.

Imagine if you were a police officer, and you spotted a car load of teenagers driving in heavy traffic on a Friday evening. The car was speeding up and slowing down, then it would get real close to the car in front, then all of a sudden swerve over and pass, only to do the same thing again to the next car it came up behind. You, as a police officer could see at least six occupants, they all seemed to be laughing and having a great time. Before you activate the blue lights, your mind flashes back to the two mangled bodies of teens that were thrown out of their Mercedes Benz as it left the road at over 100mph. You remember the look on the faces of the mom and dad when they came to the scene of the wreck. That was just last night. This is tonight, and maybe you can prevent such a terrible tragedy from being repeated.

speaker and call out to him, “You in the red Mustang: pull over to the right, pull into that parking lot.” The driver looks over his left shoulder with a look on his face, “You don’t mean me, do you?” You want to shout over the loud speaker, “Yes you, pimple face,” but you maintain your professional demeanor, and instead repeat the first command, “Pull over to your right, pull into the parking lot.”

The driver complies and you call in on the radio, giving the dispatcher your location and description of the car as well as its tag number. You also inform the dispatcher that the vehicle is occupied six times. You have parked your patrol car about a car length behind the red Mustang, at about a 45 degree angle. This provides you cover behind your car’s fender, if needed.

The driver is expecting you to come to his driver’s side.

Instead you approach from the passenger side. All the kids are looking to their left. You are on their right, observing what they are doing. The teens all jump with surprise as you say, “Driver, I need to see your license, registration and proof of insurance”.

These teens look to be ok, they just came from a football game and they were all excited to have their school win. You don’t see any alcohol containers, you don’t smell any weed. Then it starts. One of the girls in the back seat, the one with the “Big Hair” starts in. “Hey officer, can I wear that cute hat?” Another girl chimes in with, “Have you ever shot anybody? You’re not going to shoot us, are you?” The driver is trying to find his license while the teen clos-

OK, back to reality. Can you see all the times that you would have been in danger? From the beginning, they did not pull over right away. The overcrowded car where you couldn’t see what everybody was doing with their hands. The girls were acting silly with their questions, distracting you. The driver is still trying to find his license. The passenger suddenly opening the car door into your legs, then popping open the

glove box. Could there be a gun in the glove box? Could this be a stolen car? Could these teens have acted differently?

When you see the blue lights come on, pull over when it’s safe to do so. Get out of traffic if possible, but do not keep driving! Even if you are sure you did nothing wrong, pull over!

Driver and passengers, stay in the car unless the officer tells you to get out. Everybody keep your hands in your lap and keep your mouth shut unless you are directly spoken to. Driver, if you need to get your papers out of the glove box or console, tell the officer what you are doing. If you are wrong, admit it! Just say something like, “Gee, we’re all taking and laughing, I should have been paying attention to my driving.” Now, I am sure a lawyer might tell you not to say anything, but that kind of honesty will more than likely get you off with a warning, as long as everything else is in order.

Paul Foreman Paul is a retired Deputy Sheriff from Lee County Florida Paul is currently at the MD Anderson Cancer Ctr, Houston Tx. Firearms Classes are on hold until this cancer is healed.

Prayers are certainly welcome. E-mails are welcome; Captureman@ paulforeman.com 256-431-6702 NRA Recruiter, to join or renew: https://membership. nrahq.org/forms/signup.

NRA Protects your 2nd Amendment

When you “light them up” with the blues and hit the yelper and few times, the driver decides to pretend it’s not him you’re pulling over. He keeps on going but his driving behavior improves dramatically. You flip on the loud

March 17 - April 6, 2017

est to you suddenly opens the door right into your legs. He jumps back into the car, saying he is sorry and then states, “This is my dad’s car, he is a lawyer; as a matter of fact, my dad is a judge in this county.” The judge’s kid pops open the glove box and starts sifting through a pile of papers and receipts. The driver still has not found his license.

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