Athens Now Main

November 6th - November 19th, 2020

AthensNowal.com E-MAIL: info@athensnowal.com ADVERTISING: Ali Elizabeth: 256-468-9425 Degan Wilder: 256-426-2493

Christmas In Limestone County 2020

See Our Listings Inside this edition...

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Special Feature Athens Secures Additional Grant Money For Swan Creek Greenway...

The City of Athens continues to secure grant funding for the Swan Creek Greenway, a National Recreation Trail...

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What Makes Ronnie Roll Swearing In Our City’s Servants...

Monday, November 2, 2020, was the day that the government of the city of Athens, AL, was sworn into office and which officially made them ready to serve us for the next...

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Clean And Green Athens-Limestone Recycling Center Customer Appreciation Day...

It seems that 2020 has not been a year with much to celebrate, but that will not stop the Athens-Limestone Recycling Center from celebrating this...

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November 06 - November 19, 2020

By Jennifer Williamson The Chamber of Commerce, Athens Main Street, City of Athens, Limestone County Commission, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association, and several community volunteers have formed a committee to Continued on page 15

Old Mill Iron: Where Quality Products Are Made By Quality People

By Libby McGaw Since 2009, Old Mill Iron has been providing the people of North AlabaContinued on page 17

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November 06 - November 19, 2020

Publisher’s Point

Reflections On The 2020 Election

Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Copy Editor

Yvonne Dempsey

Sales & Distribution Degan Wilder

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Contributing Writers D. A. Slinkard Lisa Philippart Leigh Patterson Cayce Lee Anna Hamilton Joel Allen Nick Thomas Wanda Campbell Lana E Woody Steve Leland Jerry Barksdale Libby McGaw Jennifer Williamson

I waited as long as I possibly could on Wednesday to pen this Point without sending my cool Athens Now production crew into a full-on conniption (which I would have completely deserved). So, as of 7:30 p.m., we had no idea who was going to be our president, and the coup-countercoup of conspiracy theories and accusations ranged from the amusing to the amazing.

On election night, FOX News early on showed Joe Biden blasting through ‘Bama with a 60-something point win in comparison to Donald Trump’s 30-something score. Then, they put the all-important check mark next to Mr. Biden’s name. WHAT WAS THAT? Thankfully, FOX dealt with their faux pas (which technically in French means

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3

false step) after taking a lot of understandable flak. Alabama managed to get all of their votes counted within a few hours, and while there were shake ups, at least from my perch, it seemed as though the waters that ran through our particular voting and counting process were pure. I want to thank everyone in our county who worked at and protected the polls and the process. You treated it and us as the sacred charge that it is; one that is fragile and purchased with blood.

When I went to cast my vote, arriving at 6:45 a.m. to get in line, it was comforting to see the level of care, consideration, security, and professionalism exhibited by all of the poll workers. The machine that reads your ballot went down, and we had to wait

until the tech guy arrived to fix it. No one groaned, and people waited patiently. In addition, I learned something that I never knew about the voting process as it pertains to what is called an “emergency ballot.” While the machine was down, and it was obvious that there were people trying to get to work, the woman in charge told us that if anyone wanted to cast an emergency ballot they could do so right then.

Their ballot would be put in a secure box, and at 7:15, the sheriff would come and feed the ballot into the machine in plain view of the ballot workers. No one else is allowed to touch the ballot except for the sheriff. A couple of people opted for that and were on their way.

It appears that the 2020 “Hanging Chad Award”

This is what we know so far.

Courtesy of Brian Taylor

All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . 5 Calenar Of Events . . . . . . . 6 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 8 Slinkard on Success . . . . . . 9 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Steve's Corner . . . . . . . . 11

(which is a reference to the Battle of the Ballot in Florida in the 2000 election) so far goes to Wisconsin. President Trump has asked for a recount, and rumors swirl with regard to gobs of mail-in votes mysteriously showing up in the wee hours. So far the president’s team has filed three lawsuits against the states of Wisconsin, Georgia, and Pennsylvania. We shall see what we shall see….

For me, besides the gratitude I felt at living in America and being able to cast my vote, what I will forever remember about Election Day 2020 was having the great pleasure of helping two women vote for the first time in their lives.

One was 50 years old and had never voted because she felt overwhelmed and unconfident. One was 71, had been forbidden by her family to vote and threatened with being disowned if she did. To see the smiles of confidence on their faces at making personal history, in the midst of history being made, is something that shall stick with me for the rest of my life. Stay tuned, dear readers. The “last chad” is yet to be punched through!

Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Anna . . . . 13

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

Cover Stories . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Health And Fitness . . . . . . 16 Lifelong Learning . . . . . . 18 Jerry's Journal . . . . . . . . 19 Dog Barker . . . . . . . . . . 20 Mental Health Minute . . . 21 Alternative Approach . . . 22

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All Things Soldier

An Ali Kazammi Veterans’ Day

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

Editor’s note: This Soldier is actually an email I sent to friends when I was first in Iraq. It is dated November 11, 2004, and I had been in-country since June. At the time of this writing, I was working on Radwaniyah, the base that was the birthplace of the Iraqi Special Forces. I hope that the changes that were starting to be documented in my life will be perceived as they were intended; just a chance to say thank you.

To all of our veterans, know that you are highly honored this Veterans’ Day and always. We thank you for your service. The nickname “Ali Kazammi” had been given to me by a pre-schooler back in the States.

It is pushing 2 in the morning, and it's Veterans’ Day. I am coming up on having successfully completed my first week of working graveyard. This means working from seven at night till seven in the morning, and it will be for seven days a week until I get another break in February or March.

There are a couple of guys in the computer room, and other than one "boom" a few hours ago, it is a quiet night.

For me, working graveyard may end up being one of the biggest blessings in disguise that could have ever come my way, though by nature I am not a night owl, nor did I ask for this shift. Quiet and time are commodities that are not usually flowing in a glut in my little life, and these days I have a bumper crop. May I use them well.

I am sad to say that in my 50 plus years of existence, this is the first Veterans’ Day that

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has meant anything to me.

My grandfather, who we called Gumbo, had Ike for a lieutenant in World War I, and he and Ike had to go to war as newlyweds, both having respectively married Mary and Mamie in 1916.

My dad, whose name was Roy, flew PBYs in World War II as part of the Naval Air Corps. He too, was in wartime as a newlywed, having married my mother, Mary Ellen, in 1943. Quite a sacrifice, this.

Neighbors and friends fought and some died in Viet Nam. Before I was given the opportunity to go on a wild trip to Baghdad, Veterans’ Day was a bank holiday, or if you worked for the government, you got it off. How grieved I am for having taken so much for granted, and how grateful I am for getting a chance to see freedom and the price that must be paid in order to live liberty, from a different perspective.

I am an emotional person.

All my life I have worn and will probably always wear my heart on my sleeve.

Here in Iraq, I find that the strangest things affect me deeply. Personally speaking, both compliments and digs go deeper, I think perhaps because the war drains us in ways we can't always perceive. There is this "way, way on the back burner," but nonetheless ever present, sense that not only could this be the last time you may see someone as they are leaving for a mission, you also live with the portended loss from the fact that their unit may be rotating out soon and you won't see them anymore. This pa-

spirit is one of the things that makes being here a joy.

Guys find the most ingenious ways to decorate or create privacy in their barracks. Women soldiers put the dearest little emoticons in their emails, or get all fancied up in feminine clothes and then stay in their rooms, as they can't be outside without being in uniform.

Talk about being all dressed up with nowhere to go... they still make sure they get a chance to feel like a girl when they can. Duct tape and parachute string are essential parts of life here, and their uses are nearly endless.

The old-timers from 'Nam miss the days when their helmets were made of metal and you cooked in them as well as used them to shower with. rade of grand people, as well as some who are real pains in the rear, is ongoing and you can't stop the parade or slow it down. You can only enjoy it as it goes by. What I am about to describe sent me into deep silent sobs at our registration desk.

As I was cruising through my email and trying not to be too irritated with the "if-you-don't-send-this-toat-least-ten-people-something-awful-will-happen-tothem-or-you-or-both" style of message, I came across a picture of a soldier cutting some grass outside his tent with some scissors. The man is Army, in his PTs (the casual shorts and T-shirt uniform that the soldiers run or work out in), and he was outside squatting before a makeshift planter that was made from rough Iraqi brick. His weapon is,

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according to orders, within arm's reach off to his left, ever at the ready.

This soldier-in-a-sandbox had missed the feel and smell of grass so much that he asked his wife to mail him some soil, fertilizer, and seeds so he could grow a tiny lawn. He was manicuring it with scissors rather than a LawnBoy. I am sure that he wished he was at home doing that thing that everybody hates to do -mowing. I wanted to reach inside the picture and hug him. I wanted to thank him for risking his life so people like me, people so ungrateful and undeserving, could be free. I wanted to make him some lemonade or offer to sweep up the clippings.

I wanted to see him wiggle his toes in the grass after he was done "mowing."

His creativity and can-do

They take it in stride, day after day. They do their job; they complete their mission; they just flat get the job done without fanfare. Tonight I met a kid in the Army from Kansas whose job it is to get fuel here, driving a convoy through Baghdad all the time. He happened to mention that his guys pray every time before they go out. I guess!!! Driving a flippin' fuel truck through the Red Zone during Operation Phantom Fury (Fallujah, round II) would turn you into a praying person if you aren't one already! His humility, sweetness, and serenity were deeply endearing, and he is by no means an exception. They are over here by the thousands, and from the depths I honor them.

I can from a full heart now say, Happy Veterans’ Day. Better late than never.

November 06 - November 19, 2020

Special Feature

Athens Secures Additional Grant Money For Swan Creek Greenway

by Holly Hollman - City of Athens Communications Specialist The City of Athens continues to secure grant funding for the Swan Creek Greenway, a National Recreation Trail.

The Mayor’s Office received approval for two grants from funders that promote quality of life projects. One is a $5,000 grant from Walmart to make improvements to the trailhead under construction south of U.S. 72 near Railroad Bazaar.

The City will combine the Walmart grant with its $200,000 grant from ADECA for the trailhead’s parking area. The ADECA grant is funding Grayson Carter and Son Construction’s portion of the project, which is the base, curb, and gutter for the parking area and the new road connecting to it. City of Athens crews will do part of the trailhead work, such as paving, and the Walmart grant will help fund this portion.

“We appreciate your efforts to help people live better and wish you success,” the Walmart Community Grants Team wrote in its approval notice to Athens.

The Mayor’s Office also received a $4,000 grant from the local Resource Conservation and Development Council. Recreation Department Director Bert Bradford said his department will use these funds to purchase materials, construct and install kiosks with signage, benches, and a map. One kiosk will be at the U.S. 72 trailhead under construction. The second will be at the Sportsplex trailhead, which is off U.S. 31.

The mission of the Alabama

Mountains, Rivers and Valley’s RC&D Council is to “improve the quality of life of residents by the reasonable and responsible protection of the natural and human resources of the Tennessee Valley.”

swimming pool; disc golf; and playgrounds. The trail includes bridges, a restored covered bridge, and benches.

“Walkers utilize the greenway every day, even in cold weather, to exercise, explore, and enjoy the scenic beauty along Swan Creek,” Mayor Ronnie Marks said. “We appreciate ADECA, Walmart, and RC&D for investing in our efforts to enhance this quality of life asset.”

The Swan Creek Greenway is 2.3 miles and will lengthen another 1,200 feet with the new trailhead parking area.

The greenway extends from U.S. 72 to the north by Swan Creek Park, Athens Middle School’s walking track, and on to the City’s Sportsplex.

The trail offers opportunities to see wildlife indigenous to northern Alabama, including deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and foxes, along with numerous types of fowl and fish.

The greenway connects with recreational facilities at the City's Sportsplex and Swan Creek Park, such as an archery range; fields for baseball, softball and soccer;

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Calendar of Events Steve Smith Memorial Golf Tournament November 6

Chicken Stew Sale ​November 7

With Calhoun Community College at Canebrake Golf Club.

23015 Founders Circle in Athens. 7:00AM Registration and Breakfast and 8:00AM Shotgun start. With an 11:00AM registration, 12:00PM lunch and a 1:00PM Shotgun Start also.

Proceeds benefit scholarships for students in Calhoun's health programs. 4-Man Team: $600.00; Individual: $150.00. For more information Micky Wolfe micky@canebrakeclub.com or visit calhoun.edu/calhoun-foundation/steve-smith-memorialgolf-tournament

Ardmore Veterans Group at the Ardmore City Annex Building (behind Burger King 26383 Main Street in Ardmore TN) from 10:00AM-2:00PM. Chicken stew will be sold for $25.00 a gallon and $15.00 for half-gallon. Please bring containers if possible. For more information or to Pre-order by calling Ken Crosson 256-874-4821 or Jan Chancey 910-391-5908.

Fall Foliage Cruise November 6 and 7 8

Starting at Athens Middle School (100 U.S. Highway 31N in Athens) at 11:00AM. Sponsored by AARP. The parade will depart from the high school and travel west on Pryor Street to Shaw Street turning south to Hobbs Street before proceeding around the square and end at Hometown Center - AthensLimestone Public Library area. , Please practice social distancing and wear a mask when outside of your vehicle. For more information, contact the Alabama Veterans Museum 256771-7578

With Wheeler Lake Scenic Cruises. Enjoy a beautiful cruise sailing from Joe Wheeler State Park Marina aboard the 36' Nautical Wheeler. 4405 McLean Drive in Rogersville. 1:00PM2:30PM. Departing from JWSP Marina for a 90-minute cruise filled with scenery and narrated tour including wildlife, park scenery, and a close look at Wheeler Dam. $20.00 per person; $15.00 for 12 and under. Seating limited, social distancing, seats sanitized, and mask required. Weather permitting. For more information or reservations - call or text: 256-335-2187.

True Grit 1969 Drive-In Movie ​November 6

With Athens-Limestone Public Library. 603 South Jefferson Street in Athens. 6:00PM-8:30PM featuring the John Wayne classic western. Bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy..

Please note the library building will be closed, so restrooms and other amenities will not be available. Free and open to the public.

Play Outside Day November 7

Families everywhere are encouraged to get outside the first Saturday of every month and play in public parks, enjoy trails, hit the waterways, explore greenspaces and just play!

Limestone County offers over 20 trails to explore including walking, cycling, horseback riding and kayaking – perfect for all ages. For more information: 256-232-5411

Basic Blacksmithing: Coat Hanger Project ​November 7

Athens-Limestone Veterans Parade ​November 7

Growing Up Wild - Terrific Turkeys November 10

Joe Wheeler State Park Marina. 4405 McLean Drive in Rogersville. 10:00AM-11:30AM. Wild Turkeys nearly became extince but with people such as hunters and wildlife biologist working to conserve them, there are now 7 million Wild Turkeys in North America. Come learn more and have a "gobble gobble" good time.

Calhoun Community College. Kelly Gymnasium, 6250 U.S. Highway 31N in Tanner. Dr. Joe Fitzgerald, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army for North Alabama will be the speaker starting at 10:00AM. Dr. Fitzgerald is also the founder of the "Honor Flags" program that accompanies Honor Flight as well as the organizer of "Victory Day", a national observance of the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II. In addition to Dr. Fitzgerald's presentation, the program will include the annual music salute to veterans, performed by the Calhoun Jazz Band and Calhoun Chorus. Free and open to the public. Refreshment will be served. Social distancing measures will be followed during the program and masks are required for attendance.

With Travis Fleming of Fleming Iron Works. 722 Commercial Drive in Athens. 8:00AM-4:00PM. This class swill guide you through the basic blacksmithing techniques of forging metal using tools to hammer, bend, and shape. Students will learn basic safety, fire instruction, tapering, bending, twisting, spreading, rolling, punching, and riveting. All tools and equipment provided. No previous experience required. Register at athens. edu/cll or call 256-233-8260 Page 6

Veterans Day Program November 10

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For the health and safety of our volunteers and the public, we regret that the VVA Spaghetti Day has been canceled until further notice. Thank you for your support and understanding.

November 06 - November 19, 2020

November 06 - November 19, 2020

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

Swearing In Our City’s Servants

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Monday, November 2, 2020, was the day that the government of the city of Athens, AL, was sworn into office and which officially made them ready to serve us for the next four years. It was a ceremony that was both touching and humorous, and became the newest entry on my ever-growing list of reasons as to why I love being an Athenian.

After President Frank Travis opened the meeting/ceremony with an unabashed word of prayer, there were heartfelt tributes expressing the universal sentiment of his colleagues, which was, “Talk about not being able to keep a good man down…” Mr. Travis has remained at the helm despite unspeakable personal tragedy.

To see Sharon and Frank later stand together while he was being sworn in, brought a tear to more than one eye. Incoming President Wayne Harper said it best when he noted, “We don’t always agree, but we never get disagreeable, and called Frank “a hard act to follow.” Councilman Harold Wales said, “I enjoy your prayers, Frank.” For his part, Frank quipped with his trademark humor, “There have been sighs and cries, but thank God I survived.” Later on, Frank told me that his top three priorities for the next year

Wayne and Vonnette Harper

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the next four years of learning from the more “seasoned” servants.

Mayor Ronnie and Sandra Marks, grandson Quinton, daughter Laura Johnson, and City Attorney Shane Black were, “pavin’ and drainin’,” dealing with traffic, and finishing the relocating of Jimmy Gill Park.

Frank and Sharon Travis

Newly elected council member Dana Sims Henry, center, husband Scott (l), and son, Mitchell (r)

Chris and Tiffany Seibert

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Mayor Ronnie called up his grandson, Quinton, to assist with the Pledge of Allegiance, and was joined by his family later for the swearing-in ceremony. At the end of the meeting, Athens City Attorney Shane Black gave a tribute to Ronnie, thanking him for his leadership and vision during a time of huge growth and changes on many fronts.

Newcomer Dana Henry thanked the entire council for walking her through her time as a “freshman,” and they in turn complimented her for her hard work getting up to speed with regard to the ins and outs of being a member of the council. She is looking forward to

Chris Seibert was sworn in by Judge Chad Wise, and when I asked him later what were some of the things he especially wants to tackle in the next year, he told me, “The Pilgrim’s Pride project; getting that finished, as well as Jimmy Gill Park.” Chris also added, “We need to properly manage growth: industrial growth, jobs, and people.” Chris will also serve as President Pro-tem.

Each member of the council had the opportunity to choose a judicial official to swear them in, and Judge Don Mansell spoke of his friendship with former Athens Police Chief Wayne Harper, which started in the early ‘80s when Wayne was an officer and Don was an investigator.

Judge Wise also swore in Harold Wales, and spoke of how grateful he was as a kid to have had Harold for a coach. Mayor Ronnie said of the entire council crew, “We have a wonderful city and a great team,” and I for one am looking forward to “four more years” here in Athens, Alabama.

Photos courtesy of Holly Hollman

Harold and Carol Wales

November 06 - November 19, 2020

Slinkard On Success

You Reap What You Sow

by D. A. Slinkard

You are reading this, and an election has occurred.

My prediction is that some people are happy, some people are plain mad; one side is screaming about voter fraud, while the other side is smiling with a big grin on their face. Ultimately though, the results may come as a surprise for many, but the winner has not surprised God. I have given into the idea that no matter who wins and who loses, the Lord Jesus Christ is still the King of kings and the Lord of lords.

As my pastor has said many times, “God will either give us what we need, or He will give us what we deserve.” It is a very valid point that was made, and we will reap what we sow. Galatians 6:7 reads, “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” Another nugget from God’s Word which has so much truth packed in it from the book of Genesis to the book of Revelation.

that person staring back at us, we could alleviate many of the problems we face.

positives in life; you do the right things, and you will continue to receive the right kind of reaping.

Reaping what we sow is an astute observation, but many times, we fail to realize the negativity stemming from our own actions. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. If the alcoholic continues to hang out in bars, continues to buy the booze, he will continue to make the wrong decisions.

If he continues to sow wrong, he will continue to reap bad things happening in his life.

For instance, you think positive and you will see positive results. I am amazed how easy it is to change the world around us by changing our thought pattern. Now, I realize that just thinking positive is not going to keep the weeds out of your life. Believe me, the weeds will grow; but if you can adjust your way of thinking, you will find it easier to tend to your garden (your life).

Maybe there are other areas where you know you have been reaping what you have been sowing. It could be in your attitude with others, the way you respond to criticism, or it could even be the way you speak to your spouse.

It really does not matter what vice we are talking about -- whether it is drinking, smoking cigarettes, doing drugs, etc. -the same theory is prevalent. You sow the wrong things, and you will reap the negative benefits. The same can be said for the

What you sow, you will reap. Sow good and you will reap good. Sow bad and you will reap bad. It

My question to you becomes – What are you sowing and what will you reap in your own life? Many times, we have bad things happen to us; and as much as we like to blame external factors, the reality is that our main problem is the person who stares back at us in the mirror. Our own actions, our own behaviors, are what create the roadblocks we see in our lives. If we could just fix

November 06 - November 19, 2020

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sounds like a simple concept; yet, we often reap the bad things in life because we do not know how to sow good things.

Our nation is reaping today what we have sown so many years ago. Our harvest is coming to fruition, and I can tell you that there is some bad fruit being harvested. Why? We have gotten it wrong with

our thinking.

My success in life is because of God. My failures in life are because of me. How do you turn a failure into a positive?

Learn from it. If you learn from a failure, then you have gotten an education, which then becomes a blessing from God. Throughout my lifetime, I have received many blessings from God; and the most important blessing of all has been my salvation through Jesus Christ. My second biggest blessing is, without a doubt, my wife. What has God blessed you with? If you think about everything in your life, it should not be hard to come up with some blessings -- whether it be your salvation, your spouse, or an educational moment in your life. We will reap what we sow, but life’s events may catch us off guard. However, they do not take God by surprise.

Jesus is still the King of the world.

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Tourism

Welcome November – We’re Happy To See You!

by Cayce Lee Social Media Specialist, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association Fall is here, and isn’t it a welcome change, with crisp air and leaves shimmering with colors? This year has been full of loops and hurdles for events and venues – and November is seeing organizers adapting to make their events still happen, including going virtual. Be sure to check the calendars at VisitAthensAL.com for the full details of the events below as well as for frequent updates on your favorite November and December events, and the many others being added daily.

The spooky thrills of Halloween carry over to the first weekend of November. Help contain the zombie outbreak aboard Zombie Assault Vehicles at the Zombie Paintball at Grace Hill Farms on November 6 and 7. Or enjoy a final good scare at Doomsday Haunt’s new location in Athens on U. S. Highway 72 at The Doomed Town on November 6 and 7.

til the 10th of November.

Athens Christmas Open House will be November 20– 22. Ardmore Tinsel Trail is accepting sponsors through November 24.

The salute to veterans continues with the AthensLimestone Veterans Parade on November 7. happening at Canebrake Golf Course on November 6. The Will Haney Foundation, which supports area families battling cancer, cancer research, and scholarships for graduating seniors seeking a nursing degree, has moved its annual race to the “In It To Win It” 34-mile/34-day Virtual Race celebrating the life of nursing student Will Haney, who lost his battle with cancer at age 34; the virtual race runs from November 1 through December 4. The True Grit Cowboy Church Arena Benefit Auction happens Novem-

ber 14. Piney Chapel Fire and Rescue will be hosting a Swamp John’s ToGo Fundraiser Dinner on November 14 to benefit the station. Redstone HarleyDavidson with Heroes for the Homeless will have a Homeless Ride on November 22 dropping off much needed camping and winter supplies to area homeless camps.

If you’re beginning to feel the Christmas Spirit, don’t miss these events. AthensLimestone Tourism is accepting tree sponsors for the December event, Athens North Pole Stroll, un-

Explore the fall colors by visiting one of our trails.

The Richard Martin Rails to Trails, Noah Bike Trail, Swan Creek Greenway, Marbut Bend, and Limestone County Canoe and Kayak Trail are all great ways to get outdoors and take in the colors. The Richard Martin Trail passes through the heart of the town of Elkmont, which is a great place to start and chose a direction to walk, cycle, or horseback your way along the trail. The Noah Bike Trail is on paved roads in Limestone County and the city of Athens and is suitable for bicycles, motorcycles, a Model T, or the family car and has 89-miles of scenic byway to enjoy.

The Swan Creek Greenway stretches from the

Athens SportsPlex to U.S. Highway 72, with arching branches overhead and babbling creek alongside the trail. Marbut Bend is an accessible trail near Salem-Lester in northwest Limestone County, with a raised walkway over a beaver pond and amazing views. The Limestone County Canoe and Kayak Trail stretches from Veto, TN, to Sportsman’s Park at Elk River Mills, with towering bluffs, pastoral scenes, and an amazing abundance of wildlife.

You can always find these and more events and information about the trails on the Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association’s website at VisitAthensAL.com. Or you can drop in for a visit to the Athens-Limestone Visitors Center 100 North Beaty Street in Athens from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday (except holidays).

Looking for a little patriotic fun for the family this November honoring Veterans Day? November 7 has the Ardmore Veterans’ Group hosting their Chicken Stew Sale. The Alabama Veterans Museum will be bringing the Athens-Limestone Veterans Parade to downtown Athens on November 7.

Coming together as a community is always on the calendar, and November isn’t any different. The Steve Smith Memorial Golf Tournament, benefiting Calhoun’s health program students, will be

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Athens-Limestone Tourism is looking for sponsors to help with the magic of December's Athens North Pole Stroll. www.athensnowal.com

November 06 - November 19, 2020

Steve’s Corner

Adam Was Right There

by Steve Leland

About twenty-five years ago, I read The Silence of Adam,

by Dr. Larry Crab. I also had the chance to hear Dr. Crabb speak at a church about the research that went into his book, and the experts he consulted.

The premise was that the way the story is written in Hebrew, it appears that Adam was standing right there when Eve was tempted.

I grew up with the understanding that Eve had failed all by her lonesome, and that when she gave some of the forbidden fruit to Adam, he either heroically joined her in her sin or was tricked into it. Neither of those scenarios sat all that well with me, so when I learned that it was probable that Adam had been an observer, I liked how it flowed.

Scenic detour: As Adam watched the interaction between the upright reptile and his wife, was he secretly fin-

November 06 - November 19, 2020

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gering his ribs and thinking that he could spare a few more (in the interest of science of course) in case this experiment didn’t work out well?

Easy come, easy go. All that it had cost him was a nap and a small bone.

Back on the highway: So Adam knew that he had been given the command directly by his Creator and that his wife had only received it secondhand. As he watched, he apparently didn’t pipe up with something like, “Umm, honey, let’s not do this, the Big Guy was kinda specific about this tree.” No, he stayed silent and didn’t protect her. That’s a pretty big deal right there.

We aren’t given the details, but this is how I see the next part playing out. We know that their eyes in some way were opened after they ate, and most people that I have talked to believe that it happened

at the same time for both of them. But why the time delay for her? That is what would have to have happened if her eyes opened when his did, because she ate first and then gave it to him. Personally, I believe that as he watched, he saw a change in her expression as her eyes were opened (whatever that means, it’s above my pay-grade).

I believe that Adam realized that Eve now had understanding that he didn’t have. Being a guy, he probably couldn’t help himself at this point as he reached out and received the fruit from her to take a bite for himself. This is why I believe that it was called the sin of Adam. She was deceived (and unnecessarily so if he was there), but he did it by choice.

I could be wrong; I was wrong once last year, and I am fully aware that it could happen again!

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Clean and Green

Athens-Limestone Recycling Center Customer Appreciation Day

by Leigh Patterson - Executive Coordinator - Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful It seems that 2020 has not been a year with much to celebrate, but that will not stop the Athens-Limestone Recycling Center from celebrating this month! The Recycling Center’s 40th Anniversary is this year, and in conjunction with America Recycles Day, we are planning a special day for our customers on Monday, November 16.

A Brief History: The Athens-Limestone Recycling Center grew from an Athens High School Science teacher who had the idea to start a recycling project, collecting cardboard and aluminum cans to raise funds for the AHS Science Club in 1977. Because this project grew too large for the Science Club to manage, a union was formed with the City of Athens and this project was moved to a city-owned property in 1979. In 1980, Athens-Limestone Clean Community, which is known today as Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful, assumed the responsibility of the program, formed

minum, steel, glass bottles and jars (sorted by color), motor oil, cooking oil, and electronics.

(There is a $10 fee for televisions.) All dropoff bins are labeled, so please sort your items accordingly.

NO PLASTICS are accepted at this time.

Customer Appreciation Day: a board of directors, and began a search for a plant manager, officially becoming AT H E N S - L I M E STONE RECYCLING CENTER. Athens-Limestone Recycling Center moved to its present location in 2004, and currently services 24 schools, both public and private; 2 colleges/universities; and over 300 businesses.

Before COVID-19, there were 12 community collection centers located throughout Limestone County, in addition to providing 24/7 drop-off bin services at the Lucas Ferry location. Due to being short staffed, these services are not available at this time.

For Your Information: Business hours at the

center have changed due to Daylight Savings Time ending on November 1. New business hours are Monday through Friday from 6:30a.m. until 2:30p.m. Drop off bins will be available during business hours and are located in front of the center. Items accepted during business hours include: flattened cardboard, office paper, magazines, junk mail, books, newspapers, alu-

We would love for you to join us at the Athens-Limestone Recycling Center on Monday, November 16 during business hours (6:30a.m. to 2:30p.m.), so that we can show our appreciation for our customers!

Bring your recycling and stay for snacks, drinks, and more. There may even be a drawing for a cash prize!

On this day we will be celebrating both the 40th Anniversary of the

Recycling Center and America Recycles Day. America Recycles Day (November 15) is a nationally recognized day of celebrating and promoting recycling efforts throughout our country.

This is just a small way for us to say, “Thank you,” to everyone who has supported our center over the years, and to show appreciation for their continued efforts to recycle the items that they bring to us.

Our recycling center is one of the oldest non-profit centers in the state of Alabama.

We strive to accept as many materials as possible and encourage anyone living in the Tennessee Valley area to bring them to us.

We believe people care about protecting natural resources and saving landfill space, and Athens-Limestone Recycling Center wants to support those efforts.

We are truly grateful for your support, and we hope to see you on November 16!

Become a Fan

(256) 233-8000 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com Page 12

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November 06 - November 19, 2020

Cooking with Anna

Mercy And Grace

by Anna Hamilton

Mercy and grace are words that are sometimes used interchangeably in our everyday conversation, but they have different meanings. Webster’s defines mercy as: “Compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender or to one subject to one’s power. Grace is defined as: “Unmerited divine assistance.”

One of my favorite parables in the New Testament is the story of the prodigal son. In this parable, Jesus is talking to his disciples, the Pharisees and others gathered around. In the story, a father has two sons. The younger son asks for his share of the inheritance from his father. The father grants his son’s request. This son, however, is prodigal which means wasteful and extravagant, thusly squandering his fortune and eventually becoming destitute. He is reduced to eating the slop they feed the pigs. He decides to go back to his father. He is welcomed back with open arms and a feast is given in his honor.

This story brings to life the true meaning of mercy and grace. Mercy gives the prodigal son a second chance. Grace gives him the feast. He doesn’t deserve either one, but his father shows compassion and welcomes him back with open arms. He then goes the extra step and extends unmerited divine assistance. Nothing the son has done in his life has earned him that feast. He has nothing to show for his life but by the grace extended to him, he can now begin to rebuild.

In this life, I have found it easy to show mercy to others. Most people show mercy to others easily. You put money in the little red bucket outside the store during Christmas because you have compassion for ones less fortunate than you. Mercy seems to be easily offered to others, especially during this time of the year. We feed the hungry, we donate old clothes to thrift stores or homeless shelters, and we give of our finances and time.

Showing mercy makes us feel good about ourselves.

Showing grace to another is a little bit harder. Giving grace to another person is forgiving them, unconditionally, even if they don’t deserve or ask for it, in the same way that God has forgiven us. That one stings just a little. It’s not always easy to forgive someone that doesn’t seem to show any remorse for the actions they have taken in their life. Even if they haven’t personally done something to us, in order for us not to view them in a negative light, we still must forgive them for the sins they have committed and try to see them with new eyes.

Now how in the world does all this relate to a journey to better health? I think most of us are able to show mercy to others who are trying to lose weight, live a healthier lifestyle. Most of the time we are able to show a little compassion even to ourselves. My husband and I are both doing our best to live a healthier life. When he slips up and has a candy bar, I find it easy to show him grace, easy to forgive his slip-up. The problem comes when I slip up myself. I do a horrible job showing myself grace.

I beat myself up for not being perfect, for not sticking to my strict diet plan, for eating things that I shouldn’t. During this journey to better health, I am slowly learning to give myself grace. Forgive yourselves!

-- That is going to become my anthem. I want it to be yours too, forgive yourself. We are all doing our best, and we will all be okay… at least that’s what I’m going to keep telling myself.

Here in Alabama, it has gotten COLD y’all. It went from a pleasant 74 degrees to chilly 34-degree overnight lows. With the time change, the sun is setting sooner and that temperature is dropping quickly. The recipe this week is a delicious low-carb cauliflower chowder. It sticks to your ribs and is so comforting. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family does.

Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Hebrews 4:16

Creamy Cauliflower Chowder Ingredients: 1 Tbsp. butter ½ cup onion, diced 5 garlic cloves, minced ½ cup carrots, diced 1 head of cauliflower, cut into small florets 2 ½ cups vegetable broth ½ tsp. dried oregano ¼ cup cream cheese 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled Salt and pepper to taste

Directions: In a large soup pot, heat butter and add onions and garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.

Add carrots, cauliflower, 1 ½ cups of vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil then lower the heat to a simmer.

Cook for 15 minutes or so till the cauliflower is tender.

Remove the pan from the heat and using a hand blender, blend the soup until you reach the smoothness you like. If you do not November 06 - November 19, 2020

have a hand blender, pour half the soup into a blender and pulse a few times until creamy.

Once the soup is its desired consistency, put the soup back on the heat and add the remaining cup of broth along with the cream cheese. Simmer for 5-10 minutes. Top with bacon and enjoy.

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November 06 - November 19, 2020

Cover Story

Christmas In Limestone County 2020

by Jennifer Williamson continued from page 1

help promote and celebrate the holiday season. Tere Richardson, Executive Director of Athens Main Street, expressed to me her enthusiasm for this collaborative effort by saying, “Downtown Athens is a lovely place to visit anytime of the year. But, Christmas on the Square is a magical time and especially during Christmas Open House weekend.

With ice skating, caroling, photos with Santa, North Pole Stroll Christmas trees, and most importantly, great shopping, it is a family event that is not to be missed.” Below is a description of events and opportunities for the residents of Limestone County and Athens.

34th Annual Christmas Open House November 21-22, 2020 Downtown Athens, Alabama • The Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce and Athens Main Street are planning a weekend full of fun for the whole family. The date for this year's Christmas Open House is November 21 through November 22.

• Skating rink hours are Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.

• Photos with Santa on Marion Street will be from 1 - 3 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.

• Merry Market on Marion Street will take place on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Vendor applications are coming soon.

• NEW THIS YEAR: The Broken Brush Art Studio will offer painting opportunities for children and adults near the skating rink. Children can paint a Christmas tree night

light for $15 each and adults can paint a 12" lighted Christmas tree for $45. Take home paint kits will also be available for purchase. If you purchase four or more items, you will receive a discount.

• Stan Smith and Wild Hearts Cowboy Carriage Rides will also offer carriage rides throughout the open house.

• Be sure to join us for the “Season of Love” Christmas Concert hosted by Jerome & Tiffany Malone on November 21 from 4 - 5:30 p.m. on the Courthouse Square!

North Pole Stroll December 1 - 31, 2020 Big Spring Memorial Park Downtown Athens • Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association is offering businesses the opportunity to purchase a tree in their annual North Pole Stroll. The stroll is located in Big Spring Memorial Park in downtown Athens. Trees are $100 and for more information, contact the Tourism Office at (256) 2325411.

Annual Limestone County Commission Christmas Tree Lighting - December 3, 2020 - East Side of the Limestone County Courthouse Lawn • Before the annual parade, the Limestone County Commission would like to invite the community out for some Christmas carols and excitement as Limestone County's official Christmas tree will be lit on Thursday, December 3, 2020, at 5 p.m. on the east side lawn of the historic Limestone County Courthouse. Carols will be sung by Tom McClung and the emcees for the event will be Jamie and Gloria Cooper. Ornaments, decorated by area students, will be judged and winners will be announced. There is a 100 percent chance of snow at the courthouse.

November 06 - November 19, 2020

Athens-Limestone County Christmas Parade December 3, 2020 Begins Promptly at 6 p.m.

House! It will be a great weekend to kick off your holiday shopping while supporting our local businesses, and you will

find something for the whole family to enjoy during Christmas Open House. See you there!

• After the tree lighting, residents from across the entire county will convene for the annual Athens-Limestone County Christmas Parade. The theme is “A Christmas Wish Love, Unity, & Community.”

The parade will begin at 6 p.m. on December 3rd at Athens Middle School on U.S. Highway 31 and follow the same route as previous years — west on Hobbs Street, south on Jefferson Street, east on Market Street, south on Marion Street, west on Washington Street, south on Jefferson Street, and ending at the Hometown Shopping Center. Betty Christopher, who has worked with the parade since 2004, will serve as grand marshal. Parade applications can be turned in from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays at the Chamber office located at 101 S. Beaty Street in Athens. The deadline to register is at 4 p.m. on November 19.

10th Annual Sippin' Cider Festival December 12, 2020 Downtown Athens • Athens Main Street has scheduled their annual cider festival for December 12, 2020, from 5 - 8 p.m. Downtown merchants will be open late for shopping and dining. While shopping, patrons can sip on cider and vote for their favorite! Merchants are competing for the coveted Cider Cup and bragging rights for the year.

Patrons can eat s’mores on the courthouse lawn. Christmas carols will be led by Limestone County native Jerome Malone.

Kids can also get their picture taken with costume characters.

We at the Chamber and throughout Limestone County are so excited to once again host the 2020 Christmas Open

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Health and Fitness

Mindset Is Everything

by Nick Thomas, owner of Prime Performance Training, and Certified Sports Nutritionist

We tend to focus on things such as the number on the scale, what size our clothes are, our job title, our physical abilities, our various possessions, and so the list goes on...but the controlling factor of all this is often overlooked.

The mind is the key to ANYTHING you decide to do and the success or failure which follows. If the mind is not in a good state, there is a trickle effect which cannot be stopped. Your mindset is everything; it is the control center of the rest.

The real key to living a healthy life is maintaining a healthy and positive mindset. You can still attempt and even accomplish what you set out to do, but there will always be something that happens which affects the process or outcome in a negative way.

of -- I am talking about your emotions about food.

You cannot be successful in changing your eating lifestyle if you feel like it is torture. If you cringe at the thought of the healthy foods you need to be eating, and feel like you are being punished by not eating the junk, then you will ultimately fail. No one will live in perpetual “torture” by choice, not to mention that for the time you do stick to it, you will be miserable and in a constant bad mood. The goal

of weight loss may be achieved, but more than likely will not last and have some other negative cost in your life.

Your mindset has to be thoughts of, “I am fueling my body so I can achieve my goals of feeling good and looking my best, not treating myself like a trash can, thereby feeling and looking like one too.”

Does this mean that you will always be excited to eat your greens…absolutely not! But because you have your mind set on the ultimate goal, it

When you decide on a clean, all-natural, whole food-based approach to life, you have to adjust your mind, not just what you are putting in your mouth. Yes, there is an education side to this when it comes to the actual food, but that is not what I am speaking

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is worth it and therefore becomes a habit that rewards you far more than the moments of tasting cake and candy bars.

The “cheat” no longer feels good because your mind knows you do not want to pay the consequences. The confidence and energy that eating well brings becomes far more valuable and therefore the mind is in a much more positive state which allows you to stay the course.

I also just have to say that all this applies to exercise as well! You cannot

think of it as punishment and expect to make it a lasting part of your life.

The mind has to know it is a positive part of living the life you desire.

The holidays are here and the new year is approaching; this is usually the time most all of us fall off the healthy-eating wagon, at least some.

Sure, don’t stress over a few extras here and there, life should be enjoyed; but remember your goals and remember what that healthy eating feels like. Maintain a positive mindset about food. Focus on the energy and confidence you have if you keep things under control, not to mention the wonderful feeling in mid-January when all your clothes still fit and just thinking of the scale doesn’t fill you with immediate anxiety! Keep all this in mind and you will have a fantastic start to a brand-new decade focused on positive mindset and an overall healthy lifestyle.

For more information regarding a personalized general/sports nutrition plan or personal training contact me at Prime Performance 423-805-0870.

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November 06 - November 19, 2020

Cover Story

Old Mill Iron: Where Quality Products Are Made By Quality People

by Libby McGaw

continued from page 1

ma with expertly crafted ornamental iron work which can be seen all around the region, and most recently on the north side of the Limestone County Courthouse square. We were all grateful to see that there was extra outdoor eating space beautifully cordoned off with custom iron work, which made it possible to "beat COVID in style." Eating space even went beyond the confines of restaurants and came close to the doors of several adjacent businesses, with the result being that Athens was weathering the "shutdown storm" just fine. Patrons could happily dine or do curb-side pick up, and still safely maintain social distancing. Subsequently, surrounding businesses had visitors come in their shops as soon as lunch was finished.

Old Mill Iron has a long history of working with customers in the North Alabama area, and was co-founded by Jeff and

Glennis Witmuss. Jeff has extensive experience in tool and die as well as engineering in the automotive manufacturing industry. Reading blueprints, working on designs, and helping to find solutions are everyday occurrences for Old Mill Iron.

Jeff's background in the automotive industry has helped greatly to meet the fabrication needs of several area plants, businesses, and builders. Jeff expressed, "We are pleased to be able to help the local suppliers with their requests for fabrication and powder coating, and to help them move forward with their projects. Watching Limestone County become a growing, successful area has been great for us to be a part of."

In addition to commercial work, Old Mill Iron also creates unique ornamental ironwork for many of the local custom home builders; everything from fencing to handrails and driveway gates…they do it all.

As local small business

November 06 - November 19, 2020

owners know, success does not happen without its struggles. Five years ago, Old Mill was almost shut down for a period of time after an unfortunate event happened. The company moved from their Madison, AL, location onto their own property and were overwhelmed with friends and family that helped them fulfill their contracts. “We had every intention of closing the business after fulfilling the contracts, but it just kept growing,” said Glennis. For many years they worked out of the barn on their own property, and ran the business office out of their home. “Slow and steady wins the race,” and after a period of time, Old Mill Iron was able to expand the business to a currently expanding team of 14 outstanding employees. “We are thrilled about our next steps, and the team of experienced employees that are now driving us forward,” she added. Glennis grinned as she said, “They are all over-qualified, and have become like family.”

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Business is growing, and with giving back in mind, Old Mill Iron began to look for a new locale in Limestone County. They are pleased to announce that in December they are moving to a new site in Elkmont, which will be located at 25423 Elkton Road, and will be in the feed store next to the old BP station. Speaking for the entire Old Mill Iron team, Gaines Smith, who heads up their sales department, said, "Five years ago Old Mill Iron made the decision to bring everything to Limestone County because it is what we call home.

We all share a love for the Athens area and want to express to our readers that we are happy we are moving to Elkmont soon.

By being able to relocate to a larger building in Elkmont, we will be able

to help keep our community growing and flourishing. Our drive and focus is and always will be the great folks that make up Limestone County and surrounding areas.”

What is Old Mill Iron able to provide for you?

Residential ornamental work, fencing, and gates.

They fabricate handrails, stair rails, driveway gates and fencing. Their work ranges from highly ornate to commercial and structural. In 2017, the powder-coating service was added, and they are able to powder-coat fencing, outdoor furniture, auto parts, farm equipment, and much more.

Some of their recent powder-coating projects have been for the City of Madison, Athens Public Schools, and H&R continued on page 23

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Learning As A Lifestyle

We Are Back!

by Wanda Campbell

Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 COVID season is video conferencing with Zoom.

Join the conversation as we discuss how to use Zoom effectively. Topics will range from best practices to etiquette.

The past nine months feels like it has been years long, but we are getting back to work and things are looking up.

This month, we begin to offer classes again.

Classes will be held in the Mezzanine at the Center for Lifelong Learning located at 121 South Marion Street. We are preparing seating within social distancing guidelines. Desks and seats are cleaned after each use, and all classes are limited to 10 students.

Masks are required to enter the building, and you will have your temperature taken at the front desk.

You can register for classes on the website – www. athens.edu/CLL - or call us at 256-233-8260. We are looking forward to seeing our visitors again.

We are also pleased to introduce our new director,

Cookie Decorating

New CLL director, Andrew Dolar Andrew Dollar. Andrew is a native of Alabama with a BA from the University of Southern Mississippi, an MPA from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, and he is currently working on his doctoral degree from Vanderbilt University. He has a nearly 20-year background in

public affairs, community relations, and small business development with a career beginning in Montgomery as part of the Governor’s Policy team. We are excited to work with Andrew. Watch for an article from Andrew next month.

Saturday, December 5, from 10 a.m. to noon, we are offering Cookie Decorating. Just in time for Christmas, this is a true beginners’ class on cookie decorating! Our instructor does a fabulous job in teaching students how to become “cookie artists” with sugar cookies, royal icing, and amazingly simple decorating techniques.

Bring a friend and spend a couple of hours with us learning, laughing, talking about recipes, and decorating the perfectly beautiful cookie. This is a very hands-on, detailoriented class; so come join us for an incredible cookie transformation!

Our office will be closed from Friday, December 11, 2020 until Monday, January 4, 2021. Exciting news will be coming in 2021. You can use the website – www.athens. edu/CLL - to find classes that start in the new year.

Be sure to check the website often for other news that is coming up.

UPCOMING CLASSES COVID and Your Mental Health Tuesday, November 17, from noon -1 p.m., we are offering COVID and Your Mental Health. If you are feeling lonely, frustrated, anxious, overwhelmed, and helpless, you are not alone. The coronavirus is taking a toll on all of us.

People living with immunocompromised systems are particularly vulnerable. Join us for strategies to make life easier.

Zoom Etiquette Wednesday, November 18, from noon - 1 p.m., we are offering Zoom Etiquette. A new phenomenon from the

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November 06 - November 19, 2020

Jerry’s Journal

Where Hell Was Green, Part 3

by Jerry Barksdale South Vietnam,1969. Lt. Joe Rogers had been forewarned not to make close friends.

He ignored the admonition.

"Everybody wants to know that somebody has got their back.” Lt. Chuck Chambers (not a real name, of course) of Arkansas was platoon leader.

“He was my best friend, a super guy. We had family back home and daughters we’d never seen – only in pictures.”

Chuck served his time in the field and was rotated to a noncombat job until sent back to the States. Soon, he would be home in the arms of his wife and cuddling his precious little girl.

In short order, Roger’s company had four company commanders. Then Captain Bailey (again, not a real name) took command. He had been commissioned in transportation, knew practically nothing about field operations, and wasn't liked by the men. They called him Beetle Bailey.

"He'd get people killed needlessly," says Rogers. "He was a poor officer, he'd give orders to platoon leaders who knew it was a death assignment, but they did it anyway.” Rogers and his fellow officers took action. They asked the Battalion Commander to relieve Bailey.

A chopper flew in and Beetle Bailey was relieved on the spot, and flown back to the rear. Lt. Chuck Chambers, who was scheduled to go home in 30 days, was sent to replace Bailey. "One day we were in combat," says Rogers, his voice cracking slightly.

"And no matter where we sat down, we were fired on by the enemy. It was right before nightfall, and we had to find a place to stay for the night. We were trying to dig in. Mortar fire was coming in and counter fire was going out. Darkness came, and many of us didn't

have a hole to get in. First Cav had a policy that nobody slept in a hammock at night because of incoming rounds. Chuck hadn't had a chance to dig in, so he hung a hammock. Mortar fire kept coming in that night.

A scout was sent out with a dog to locate the enemy bunker. The ambush team was a hundred yards away, fighting in close combat and trying to keep from being overrun. There was a lull in the fighting for 25 to 30 minutes and Chuck climbed in his hammock to go to sleep.

A mortar round hit a tree and killed Chuck," says Rogers.

"He remained on the ground during the night. The enemy was trying to break through.

When daylight came, a chopper came in and picked up casualties. I had to pick up Chuck's body parts and put them in a bag. Me and two other guys took him to a helicopter and put him on. Later on, I had to write his wife in Arkansas. It was the hardest thing I ever had to do."

Rogers pauses to gain control of his emotions. Finally, he said "that's why you don't make friends. It had a little effect on me then. I had little time to concentrate on it. There were lots of guys I knew that were killed, but he was the one that hurt me the most." Rogers pauses. "His death was attributed to having to come back to the field. He wouldn't have come back if we hadn't taken action to relieve Captain Bailey.”

Later, Rogers considered visiting Chuck's wife and daughter in Arkansas, but didn’t. “I just tried to put it out of my mind.”

Death was a constant companion. A third of his OCS class at Ft. Sill were killed. The enemy launched waves of human assaults against the firebase.

“We'd kill 'em by the dozens in the wire. Next day, a dozer would be helicoptered in, dig a big hole and push the bodies

November 06 - November 19, 2020

in."

Death stalked Rogers. "I had a guy killed by a sniper closer than you and me,” he gestures.

“I was touching them when they were shot in the head. That's how lucky I was. They were killed and I wasn't. We never wore rank insignia - no name.

Dog tags were the only identity we had. One of my friends was hit in the chest by a 40 mm RPG. There was hardly anything left to pick up.” He saw plenty of dead NVA North Vietnamese. "We killed so many of them. They were smart fighters.

They were brainwashed, propagandized, and totally committed to their cause," says Rogers.

"One of the most fierce enemies you'd ever fight - fight to the death." They constructed bridges that were under water during the day and couldn't be detected from the air. They would raise them at night and cross. Bicycles were loaded with several hundred pounds of rice and pushed 200 miles down the Ho Chi Minh Trail.

They used elephants to transport munitions and supplies. A huge underground ball bearing and bicycle repair shop was discovered in the jungles. A flight of B52s was called in and dropped bombs.

"Their call sign was "ARC light" because when they went off, it looked like the northern lights," says Rogers. "They left total destruction; nothing standing; no trees. We reported over 100 dead. Body parts were scattered everywhere. Most of the casualties were concussions. We'd find enemy soldiers walking around totally delirious, bleeding from the ears. An enemy Corps Commander was bleeding from his ears, eyes and nose. We found radio operators that still had ear phones on, six to eight in a clump, all dead.”

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After an underground bunker was discovered in the jungle, Rogers decided to watch the troops destroy it. They were going to pump in Persistent CS gas, a strong irritant that affects the eyes and lungs for six months. "You sure you want to go?" asked his Company Commander. "Yes sir," replied Rogers. "I had two radio operators with me. They were my shadow. The wind was blowing just right when they gassed the bunker, then it shifted. We took off running as fast as we could through the jungles, totally oblivious to anything out there - NVA, tigers, snakes - running for our lives, that cloud of gas behind us."

A fire fight erupted between the Americans and the NVA inside the bunker. "I'm going to send in flame throwers," said the Battalion Commander.

The helicopter delivered them, but dropped them in the wrong place. "It didn't make any difference, no one in 1st Cavalry knew how to use them," says Rogers. “The Air Force dropped bombs on the bunker."

Rogers received a Purple Heart after being hit with shrapnel behind his knee; two Bronze Stars, two air medals and a host of others.

But his most treasured award is a Soldier's Medal awarded "for distinguishing himself by heroism not involving actual combat with the enemy." Right after Chuck Chambers’ mangled body was flown out, the new Company Commander was choppered in. "I was supposed to fly out on that helicopter. It never landed," says Rogers.

“The rotary blades struck a tree trunk about 15 feet up and it crashed and caught fire. Me and the new Company Commander pulled the crew out and saved them."

August, 1969. Rogers had

done his duty and was headed home. He stopped by S-1 (Administration) before leaving for Ton Son Nhut Airbase. "Here are your awards and decorations," a clerk said and tossed a box at Rogers.

"That's your ceremony." Rogers walked up the steps of that airliner, called "Freedom Bird," his medals so unceremoniously presented inside a box. He didn't care. He was going home to see his wife and hold his baby daughter that he’d never seen.

The plane lifted off and headed to San Francisco. By Christmas, more than 40,000 Americans would be dead, killed in action. His weight had dropped from 180 to 132 pounds; he had suffered dysentery for 5 days in the jungle and once went 37 days without a bath, but he knew he had been lucky. Why had death chosen others instead of him?

His greatest fear had been capture by the enemy. Once he was grabbed, but escaped.

When he deplaned at San Francisco he was disrespected. “No respect, no gratitude.” Rogers remained in the Army and made numerous trips to the Pentagon in Washington, but avoided the wall where 58,307 names of the dead are chiseled in black granite. "I stayed away from the wall all those years, then I finally went. Chuck's name was the first one I looked for; I traced his name on paper.”

His voice trembles. “One trip was enough."

Rogers retired in 1993 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He is Adjunct Professor of Economics at Calhoun College. He and his wife, Margaret recently moved from Elkmont Village to the Vineyard in Athens.

To Be Continued...

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Dog Barker

Reaping What Is Sown

by Joel Allen

There was a time when I was a boy that our family had a dog named Puddles.

She actually was my PeePaw’s (Grandpa’s) dog. She was a poodle mix, if memory serves me correctly. Two things Puddles never liked -- a naked boy or anyone

sticking out their tongue at her. I will share with everyone why this was with the true story of Puddle’s dislike for the above mentioned.

My Uncle Danny, when he was a boy, peed on Puddles. After that, when Uncle Danny even looked like he might re-

peat said offense, Puddles would growl; and Danny would have to cover his “wee-wee” area to prevent from getting bit there, all while shuffling past Puddles crying. So, there is the first reason, LOL! The sticking-out-yourtongue-at-Puddles be-

came a problem when someone in the family teased her, and after sticking out their tongue, they spit on Puddles. After that, if anyone stuck out their tongue at Puddles, she would become this raving, angry dog that would chase and bite if she caught the offender. My Aunt Jean was cornered in the bathroom after PeePaw suggested to her that she should stick out her tongue at Puddles, LOL. Let me tell everyone, the commotion in the house where Puddles had “treed” Aunt Jean in the bathroom and my PeePaw just laughing would have made anyone laugh…especially when everyone could hear Aunt Jean begging PeePaw to call off Puddles.

She would crack the door and holler for PeePaw to call off Puddles; and Puddles would charge the door, growling and snarling trying to get Aunt Jean. It’s a good thing Puddles was not a big dog!

So, why did I share this with all my readers? To give everyone a laugh, but also to teach the moral of this story, “Be careful what you teach your dog!” When they are puppies their brain grows and imprints permanent moments in their lives.

I always tell people that there are what we call “imprint

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stages” at 12-weeks and during growing spurts.

After they fully grow up, how a dog is treated will greatly encourage how they will behave.

In some cases, genetics can also encourage or cause problems; so be careful. Give them love (or in my case, I give mine lubbins -- loving and rubbings), and socialize them to different people and environments. If the dog is only allowed to see certain family members and not allowed to meet strangers and other types of people, this can lead to one or two problems -fear biting, where the dog does not trust people and lashes out in defense, or thinking they need to guard the family and all strangers are on the menu (so to speak).

A scared dog like a person, can get one hurt.

So, think before teaching your pup anything new. Ask yourself if what is being taught and learned will positively impact the pup. They are a lifetime investment; and remember, they give their love, life, and loyalty. They only ask to be loved in return.

“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 Allen 256-651-2211

November 06 - November 19, 2020

Mental Health Minute

Resolving Conflict

by Lisa Philippart, Licensed Professional Counselor

“All conflict we experience in the world, is a conflict within our own selves.”

- Brenda Shoshanna Conflict is a normal part of any healthy relationship, personal or professional. When conflict is mismanaged, it can cause great harm to a relationship, but when handled in a respectful, positive way, it provides an opportunity to strengthen the bond between two people. Conflict arises from differences, both large and small, whenever people disagree over their values, motivations, perceptions, ideas, or desires.

Although some differences may seem trivial, when a conflict triggers strong feelings, a deep personal need is often at the core of the problem.

These needs can range from needs of safety and security, to respect and value, or to the greater need of closeness and intimacy. In personal relationships, a lack of understanding about differing needs can result in distance, arguments, and breakups. In the workplace, differing needs can result in broken deals, decreased profits, and lost jobs.

Do you fear conflict or avoid it at all costs? If your perception of conflict comes from painful memories from your childhood or previously

unhealthy relationships, you may expect all disagreements to end badly. You may have been taught to view conflict as demoralizing, humiliating, or fear-producing.

To the extreme, if you felt powerless or out of control, conflict may even be traumatizing for you. If you are afraid of conflict, it can become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

If you enter into a conflict situation already feeling threatened, it’s tough to deal with the problem at hand in a healthy way. Instead, you are more likely to either shut down or blow up in anger. Conflict triggers strong emotions, leading to either resentments (unhealthy) or trust (healthy.) Your ability to successfully resolve conflict depends on your ability to manage stress quickly by remaining alert and calm. This allows you to accurately read and interpret verbal and nonverbal communication. When you are in control of your emotions, you can communicate your needs without threatening or intimidating others. Pay attention to the feelings being expressed, as well as the spoken word of others.

stress relief is being able to manage and relieve stress in the moment.

You will need to practice staying centered and in control of your emotions.

To handle your stress, be aware of your own feelings and in touch with your needs. And then, appropriately communicate these emotions and needs clearly. Take a deep breath, allow yourself to pause, or even state, “I need a moment to think about that,” as you process both your emotional and rational responses.

Emotional awareness is the key to understanding yourself and others. Although knowing your own feelings may sound simple, you may be ignoring or suppressing strong emotions like anger, sadness,

and fear. Your ability to resolve conflict depends on being connected to these feelings. In other words, emotional awareness is the conscious recognition of your moment-to-moment feeling experience. Emotional awareness allows you to understand yourself and others, including what is really the troubling issue, and to communicate clearly and effectively to engage and influence others.

Finally, you can ensure that the process of managing and resolving conflict is as positive as possible by sticking to the following guidelines: 1. Listen for what is felt as well as said.

2. Make conflict resolution the priority rath-

er than winning or being right.

3. Focus on the present moment.

4. Pick your battles.

5. Be willing to forgive.

6. Know when to let something go.

Using these conflict resolution skills can help to put the situation into perspective, and can actually become an opportunity for growth and greater connection.

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

To successfully resolve a conflict, you will need to learn and practice two core skills: quick stress relief and emotional awareness. Quick

November 06 - November 19, 2020

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The Alternative Approach

The Truth About The Candemic

by Lana E. Woody

We have all heard of parasites, right? They require a host, something to provide them life and nutrients. In other words, they need us so they can survive. There are many different types of parasites but in this newsletter, we are going to focus on candida, which can cause a number of physiological and psychological problems for human beings.

Candida, often referred to as a systemic yeast infection, can be the cause of many serious health problems if not treated. It is actually a form of yeast that when out of control causes a variety of infections, and causes the body to produce enzymes and acids that are extremely harmful in large amounts.

The truth is that candida is an opportunistic parasite.

It can even live outside the body for short periods of time. When the host has a weakened immune system, it can thrive and spread throughout the body. It can be found in the foods we eat; it can live in our skin, toenails and fingernails.

Candida lives inside our intestines.

Sugar and alcohol can cause it to become overactive.

Over a period of time it can mutate into new strains.

Starches, grains, bread, sugar, beer, and wine contribute to feeding candida causing the body many problematic symptoms. Belly bloat, blood sugar problems due to insulin resistance, constipation, yeast infections, fungal infections, thrush, fatty liver, arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and systemic yeast infections all occur from candida.

Candida produces 79 toxins in the body, including uric acid, and may lead to systemic infections. Remember, candida will thrive on high sugar levels in the body. Even gallbladder problems and gallstones can be linked to candida, as can liver problems and diabetes.

Uric acid causes gout; it can lead to renal disease, leukemia and other cancers.

It also produces ammonia, urea, and acetaldehyde (ethanol), which can all become toxic. Uric acid can cause fermentation of the gut by converting sugar (glucose) into alcohol. Many people with yeast infections can eat bread and become intoxicated and cause damage

functional. MSM+C helps the body eliminate toxins, it supports the upper GI tract, reducing acid reflux and candida, and subsequently supports healthier digestion. Once balance is reached within the cells, they begin to function properly, decreasing the chance of disease.

at cellular levels, including the neurotransmitters in the brain, causing you to feel drunk even without alcohol.

A toxic buildup of acetaldehyde can increase chances of developing cancer. People who experience serious yeast infections can develop heart problems later in life.

Left untreated, these unfriendly parasites and bacterial infections can contribute to our entire bodies suffering.

There are a few methods that can help this process, the one I am going to discuss is the naturopathic approach. A natural treatment includes a new diet and exercise so that it can be kept under control and the body can reach homeostasis (balance) again. Always consult your primary care doctor if there are serious underlying causes or to see if it has progressed too far.It can be completely reversed considering that the body heals quickly with good nutrition and supplementation.

Over time, your body can regenerate itself by increasing your vitamin intake to

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include vitamin C, B-vitamins, magnesium, potassium and calcium. We carry many different types of vitamin C, and citrus bioflavonoids. Vitamin D 5000 helps provide a variety of nutrients the body needs.

We have a supplement called Ultimate Fruit & Vegetable, which offers bioavailable nutrients, a combination of fruits, vegetables, and superfoods, essential fatty acids, pre- and probiotics, amino acids, antioxidants, phytonutrients, and bioflavonoids that we don’t always get from our food.

Ginger, cinnamon, oregano oil, clove oil, turmeric, colloidal silver and aloe can all support normal candida.

Black cohosh, black walnut, Candida Cleanse, and Terminator are also very effective. Cutting down on the sugar, carbohydrates, bread, alcohol, and other yeast-producing foods can be helpful.

MSM +C is one of our best-selling products that helps with candida overgrowth. It helps the circulatory system become more

Thank you for reading this newsletter and let me encourage you to come

by Herbs & More in Athens and visit us. Come by Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We look forward to meeting you and helping you find the right holistic approach to maintaining your health.

Simply go by Herbs & More in Athens or NHC Herb Shop in Killen or call 800-745-4408. To learn even more go to www. newtritionalhc.com and listen to Roy’s radio programs or listen live Monday – Friday at 9 a.m. on WBTG in Sheffield and at noon on WKAC in Athens.

You can find me on Pinterest for more Candida and Health Info: Lana Woody Username-ZLana Boards: Candida and Health Supplements Let's Be Candida Free Together Your Friend in Health, Lana E. Woody

November 06 - November 19, 2020

Cover Story (continued)

Old Mill Iron: Where Quality Products Are Made By Quality People

by Libby McGaw

continued from page 17

Agri-Power. They have CAD software and have in-house subject experts with decades of experience on staff. They are also an authorized dealer for LiftMaster gate operators.

Old Mill Iron is nationally certified as a woman-owned small business through the WBENC. They are also members of the Athens Home Builders' Association, they support Limestone County Churches Involved (LCCI), and this year they hope to be a part of the Christ-

mas in Limestone County North Poll Stroll.

You can contact them today at 256-617-3827 and schedule your appointment to have a member of their experienced sales team (who always follow CDC guidelines on COVID-19 precautions) come out and provide a professional and detailed quote.

Old Mill Iron 256 617-3827 www.oldmilliron.com sales@oldmilliron.com Facebook: Old Mill Iron

Mondays at 10am 1080 AM WKAC November 06 - November 19, 2020

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