October 07, 2016

October 7th - October 20th, 2016

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

See Our Listings Inside this edition...

Pages 25 - 32

Special Feature

The 9th Annual Pink Elephant Luncheon Set For October 12th...

On October 12th, once again the Athens Limestone Hospital Foundation will be sponsoring the Pink Elephant Luncheon, an event whose sole purpose is to...

Page 5

Athens Health Spotlight

The 10th Annual Storytelling Festival: From A Dream To A Total Delight

By Ali Elizabeth Turner It’s been ten years since a group of civic minded Athenians brought the first Storytelling Festival to our wonderful town, and since that time, it has grown into an annual favorite of both the attendees as Continued on page 15

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Absentee Voting, But Were Afraid To Ask

Spotlight on Jean Sheridan...

Miss Jean was born on May 20, 1941 on a little farm near Raytown, MO. It was about six months before the attack on Pearl Harbor, and ultimately the family moved into town. In 1965, she married Duane, and they are...

Page 7

Clean And Green So Much To Remember!

2017 Paws For The Environment Calendar Will Help...

Athens is such a wonderful city to call home. It is also a wonderful place to visit. I know this because...

Page 12

October 7 - October 20, 2016

By Ali Elizabeth Turner

Limestone County Circuit Court Clerk Brad Curnutt

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Limestone County Circuit Court Clerk Brad Curnutt is busy during any election, but especially so when it’s time to elect a new President of the United States. It is his responsibility to handle every aspect of absentee voting, and Brad wanted to make sure

Continued on pages 17

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October 7 - October 20, 2016

Publisher’s Point

Three Cheers For Coaching

Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Copy Editor Rachel Clark

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Contributing Writers Janet Hunt Lynne Hart Wanda Campbell Paul Foreman Tammy Wilkinson Teresa Todd Rosemary Dewar Joel Allen Jerry Barksdale Madison Curnutt

Lest you think I am referring to Bear, Gene, Nick, or Gus, what I am referring to is a profession that is coming into its stride: life coaching. In the last edition of Athens Now, there was a special feature article showcasing the life coaching busi-

there aren’t any dead cats buried under 5,000 Barbie dolls that of course could one day make me rich if I were to sell them, but there is certainly enough shmutz (a completely clean and powerful Yiddish word for mess, garbage, clutter, and stuff) to sink a ship. It has shamed me, drained me, made me cry, and whatever other

of life coaching is not to have it be a permanent client-service relationship, it is intended to be goal specific. That being said, if one has a lot of goals, as I do, this could conceivably go on for awhile.

So, why in the world would you pay someone to hold you accountable, help you set manageable goals, identify obstacles

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 6 Athens Health Spotlight . . . 7 The Millennial Mind . . . . . . 9 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Tammy . . . . 13 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 14 Cover Stories . . . . . . . 15 & 17 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . 18 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 19 Dog Barker . . . . . . . . . . 20

ness of Charlie Wallace, and it was written from the standpoint of personal consumption. It is now two weeks later, and I can’t imagine being any happier with Charlie and her God-given wisdom, and the tangible progress I am making toward conquering clutter that has beaten my tail.

While doing my best to avoid sounding like a reality series, I have to be really secure in your love to let you in my garage. No,

Jerry's Journal . . . . . . . . . . 21 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Foreman's Forum . . . . . . . . 23

October 7 - October 20, 2016

self-piteous labels you want to use. Sound familiar?

I had prayed, purposed a kazillion times to tackle it, set aside whole days to go after it, and……nada.

Then Charlie approached me regarding advertising in the paper and I thought affectionately, “OK, Missy, if you can help me conquer this without me having to self admit anywhere, you’ve got yourself a raving fan client for life.” Actually, the point

and celebrate with you?

Because it works, it gives you an education of inestimable value, the proof of tangible progress, and in the case of Charlie, a level of wisdom that is stunning and definitely from above.

Oh, and let’s not forget about the fact that she prays with you before and after each session, can see through your emotional schmutz with skill, offer suggestions that actually make sense, and never has to use shame to get the job

done. Me likey!!

Why has life coaching become a profession that has gone from the category of sending away for ordination papers so that you can “perform marriages” to a highly trained service/skill that is freely and continuously touted by people who are already enormously successful on a number of fronts?

Because the principles of goal setting and achieving those goals are not taught in school, in church, or in the community. Nature, along with the marketplace abhors a vacuum, and people who have allowed themselves to become overbooked, overlooked, and overcooked by everything from yard sales to social media are drowning. Hence, an industry that “indeed meets the need” is thriving, and I am deeply thankful to be blessed by it.

So, there you are, my friends. You have just been given a basic “before” picture of my garage as well as parts of my soul, and if I am feeling particularly triumphant, I just might take a picture of my garage when it is no longer a mine field and post it for you to see.

Meantime, it’s Tuesdays With Charlie.

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

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All Things Soldier

Silver Stars, 47 Years Later

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

Joint Base Lewis McChord near Seattle, Washington, recently did something that made me want to cheer: they awarded two former Vietnam vets the Silver Stars that should have been given them 47 years ago. I am convinced that the wait made the honor that much sweeter, especially seeing what a similar situation dated from WWII did for our own local hero, Theo Calvin, shortly before he died. Theo and four others were awarded the French Legion of Honor medal in 2013.

Indeed, Theo went out on a high note.

the Jungle Warriors, part of the Seventh ID. In August of 1969, they were ambushed and wounded. They continued to help other wounded brothers despite the fact that they needed medical care, too. While credited with saving lives, Adler is quick to say that “Everyone saved lives that day.”

No one knows if the

The two Silver Star recipients are named Rick Adler and Gary Birka. They were infantrymen in a unit that was nicknamed

Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)

$7

October 17th

11am - 1pm and 5pm-7pm

Musical Entertainment • 5-7pm 17915 W Elm St • Athens, Alabama • 256-232-0029 Page 4

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application for their awards was misplaced, or what exactly happened, and for decades, they were truly what is known as unsung heroes.

However, their commanding officer, Tom Pearson, once he was made aware of what had happened, got right to work to rectify the situation.

Birka said something that made me cringe as well as celebrate the grace I don’t deserve and received decades ago. What makes his statement even more challenging is the understated way in which he talked about the fact that vets returning from Vietnam “were not treated well.” He was correctly talking about the person I used to be. I was one who, if I had been at what was known back then only as Fort Lewis in 1970, would not have “treated them well.”

The war in Vietnam began 50 years ago, and

for the rest of my life I will be thanking those who fought in it. They deserve special thanks for putting up with people like me. A few months ago I had the chance to repent to Lt. Jim Campbell, a ‘Nam vet who went on to be an executive in the Ralston Purina Company, and who now supports his highly successful wife Wendy in her Juice Plus business. We were at a national Juice Plus conference, and he was putting away audio visual equipment after one of his wife’s presentations. I squatted down near him as he coiled up cables, explained who I had been, and asked him to forgive me. I later gave him a copy of my book, A Ballad For Baghdad: An Ex-Hippie Chick Vietnam War Protestor’s Three Years in Iraq. He teared up, as did I, and told me that no one had ever done that before. I would to God that I am given the same opportunity with Adler and Birka.

When the men were awarded their Stars at a special ceremony, Birka said, “It kind of feels good.” Adler said, “It’s amazing.” He then added, “If it meant waiting 47 years, one month, and one day for that to happen, then I’m OK with that.”

So am I, gentlemen, so am I. May your Stars shine even more brightly with age.

October 7 - October 20, 2016

Special Feature

The 9th Annual Pink Elephant Luncheon Set For October 12th

by Ali Elizabeth Turner On October 12th, once again the Athens Limestone Hospital Foundation will be sponsoring the Pink Elephant Luncheon, an event whose sole purpose is to raise funds as well as awareness in the fight against breast cancer.

While the color pink has had a number of illustrative roles in our culture, such as being “the” color of baby girls, as well as expressing being in a state of health or well-being, i.e. being “in the pink,” it wasn’t until 2008, when the National Football League approved the use of players using pink garb and or equipment to express their solidarity in the fight against breast cancer, that it morphed into becoming the color of a warrior. Now it is common to see men and women wear pink ribbons in October, and it is even possible to buy pink garbage cans that signal a commitment all year long to seeing breast cancer defeated.

There was a time when breast cancer was considered to be the disease of elderly women, being largely confined to those aged 65 and above. Some oncologists say that with each passing decade, the age of women attacked by breast cancer has itself dropped a decade, with teenagers being stricken in the years 2000-2010. Sadly, last year a ten year old girl in California became the youngest person on record to have been diagnosed with it. In addition, it is now entirely possible for men to have breast cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2016, 2600 men will be stricken with the disease, and of those 2600,

400 will die. While it is true that 97% of the women who actually die from breast cancer are over the age of 40, still the death toll this year will be close to 40,000, and from every age group. Thankfully, there are more than 2.8 million breast cancer survivors in

provide scholarships for mammograms, as well as technologies to find it sooner. ALH Foundation started the Pink Elephant Fund eight years ago because they wanted to make sure residents of Limestone County who opportunities to be a sponsor. If you would like to be a mammogram scholarship sponsor, you can do so for $125. You will receive one ticket to the luncheon, and will be designated as a “Pink Table Top” sponsor.

The “Tickled Pink” designation is for a donation of $500, includes two luncheon tickets, event day recognition, and having name/ organization posted on the Pink Elephant Sponsor Board for the fiscal year.

the U.S., and the Foundation is doing all it can to see that number increase.

Because early detection is one of the keys for survival, the Athens Limestone Hospital Foundation raises funds specifically designated to

October 7 - October 20, 2016

either have no medical insurance, or whose insurance does not cover mammograms would have the opportunity to have this test at no charge. This has been especially helpful in recent years as insurance costs have sky-rocketed,

or mammograms have been dropped from coverage altogether.

In keeping with October being National Breast Cancer Awareness month, the Foundation will be holding the Pink Elephant Luncheon on the 12th at the Limestone County Event Center from 11:30 am until 1 pm. Individual tickets are $30, and in addition, there are a number of

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The $1500 “Pretty In Pink” designation includes a luncheon table for 8, the same event day and Sponsor board recognition, as well as inclusion in a full page color ad in the Sunday News Courier. For $2500, the “Passionate Pink” sponsors will have 2 tables of 8, the same event day recognition, Sponsor Board recognition, News Courier recognition, name/organization posted on hospital digital donor wall, as well as further recognition in Foundation marketing campaigns.

For more purchasing a sponsor, Foundation 233-9557.

information on tickets or being please call the Office at 256-

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Calendar of Events ACT/SAT Prep Classes Oct 8th & 15th

The Bridge, "Where Community Matters," 1627 Hines Street, Athens, AL 35612. 9:45am. $10 per session. Focused on learning and score improvement strategies. Small group learning, test strategies, skill building activities & practice tools for success!

Register online at thebridge-us.volasite.com, 256-777-4613 or thebridge.us@gmail.com

Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby Oct 8th

Big Spring Memorial Park, Athens, AL. This fun rubber duck race is a fundraiser for Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful with a GRAND PRIZE of $1,000 sponsored by Limestone Farmer's Cooperative. Lots of valuable prizes are being added to our list including gift certificates, cash, and MORE. Ducks can be adopted at the KALB office, at KALB's tent at local events, or online. For information and online adoption visit kalbcares. com/2015-wacky-quacky-ducky-derby/ or call 256-233-8000.

Yoga at the Gulf Oct 9th

Newby Gulf Station, 125 East Street, Athens, AL. Don't run out of gas. Come to the Gulf. This is a public yoga event hosted

by Delisa Simpson Yoga from 6:00PM-7:00PM and all are welcomed. Donations are encouraged.

Limestone County Master Gardeners' Association (LCMGA) Monthly Meeting Oct 10th

All are welcome. We will be meeting at the visitor center on Beaty Street. We will have snacks at 5:30pm. At 6:00pm our speaker, Jay Shaw, will be talking about "Coldframe and pvc cross-buck support". Afterwards, we will have our monthly meeting. The public is always welcome at our meetings. For questions, please call Janet Hunt, LCMGA 2016 president, or visit our website http://mg.aces.edu/limestone/​or our FB page.

2nd Annual Militaria Show Oct 14th & 15th

Limestone County Event Center, 114 West Pryor Street, Athens, AL. Come enjoy the display and vendors as the Alabama Veterans Museum presents its Militaria Show on Friday 12:00PM-7:00PM and Saturday 8:00AM-6:00PM. $5.00 per adult / 2-Day Pass $8.00; Children under 12, Military, Police, Fire & Rescue & ReEnactors in Uniform receive Free Admission. Wanted: Militaria Displays and Vendors. 6ft Tables, Vendors are $45.00, Display are $20.00. Setup will be Friday 8:00AM-12:00PM. For more information; email: info@alabamaveteransmuseum.com or call 256-771-7578.

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Athens Storytelling Festival Oct 18th - 22nd

Downtown Athens, AL. Imagine a crisp fall weekend spent listening to stories of adventure and excitement... a place where memories and magic are captured and spun into tales that make you laugh and cry. Stories will be told on the Courthouse Square in Athens, Alabama within close proximity of an eclectic mix of shops offering a wide variety of antiques, gifts, gourmet foods, clothing and hardware. The Courthouse Square boasts several warm and inviting restaurants, and food vendors will be present for good old-fashioned festival fare. Featured artist include Three on A String, Donald Davis, Andy Offut Irwin, Michael Reno Harrell, and. Delores Hydock. Tuesday night will be the 4th Annual Dan Williams Storyteller Night (Amateur Night).

Caring for Caleb Songwriters Benefit Oct 20th

The Hard Dock Cafe, 3755 U.S. Highway 31S, Decatur, AL. Enjoy an evening of silent auction, raffle and music featuring 2 prominent Nashville songwriters Don Sampson and Jim "Moose" Brown from 7:00PM-10:00PM benefitting Caleb Adams, who is battling Leukemia.

Rails to Trails Fall Color Ride or Walk Oct 22nd - 23rd

Elkmont, AL. Come to Elkmont, AL and enjoy all the beautiful fall colors by horseback, bicycle or foot. For more information about the event call 256-732-4211.

12th Annual Rails to Trails 10K Oct 22nd

Elkmont Church of Christ, 18890 Upper Fort Hampton Road, Elkmont, AL. Join the Elkmont High School Cross Country/ Track & Field Teams on this certified course (AL 06026JD). The course will wind north on Veto Road for approximately 3 miles before heading south on the old L&N Railroad and finishing in downtown Elkmont. The 10K will start promptly at 8:00AM and the 1-Mile Fun Run will start promptly at 9:30AM. Cost to register is $20.00 and registration closes October 20 at 11:59PM. If you have any questions about this race, please contact the race director at railstotrails10K@gmail.com

VMC Racing Frames National Dirt Track Series Oct 22nd

Limestone County Sheriff's Rodeo Arena, AL-99 Athens, AL. Tennessee Valley Flat Trackers host the VMC Specialty Frames national dirt track series as it comes to Athens, AL. Gates open: 1:00PM; Sign-up: 3:00PM-5:00PM; Practice: 5:30PM; Race to follow Gate Fee: $10.00; Kids 6 and Under: Free.

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October 7 - October 20, 2016

Athens Health And Rehab Spotlight On Jean Sheridan

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Miss Jean was born on May 20, 1941 on a little farm near Raytown, MO. It was about six months before the attack on Pearl Harbor, and ultimately the family moved into town. In 1965, she married Duane, and they are the parents of three children. Her daughter’s family has lived on the mission field in Ireland for 20 years, and her sons are both retired from the Air Force.

Duane’s job brought the Sheridans to Huntsville in

the early ‘70s, and Jean, who loves kids, became a nanny for 20 years after her kids left the nest. She came to Athens Health and Rehab in August, and is now a permanent resident. “I couldn’t have picked a better place,” she said. Thankfully, her health does permit her to get out and spend time with her husband and family, and she has no end of appreciation for all who have helped her make the transition to permanent residency

easier.

She likes Bingo, and when she first came here, she won three games in a row.

Winners of the many games and contests planned by the Activities Department earn points to spend on items in the General Store. So far Miss Jean has “shopped” for a blow dryer, as well as a set of earrings and a necklace, and she asked me for help putting in her earrings for the picture you see above.

She has made a fall colored bracelet as well as a decorative owl out of felt, and she especially loves Misty, Keisha, and Michelle from Activities. “I am very satisfied,” she said, simply.

We talked about her favorites, and she didn’t have to think long for any of them.

Favorite Color? Pink, but she also really likes lavender. “Duane likes blue,” she said, happily.

Favorite Food? Pepperoni pizza. She gets to go out to get her hair done every other week, and that’s when she indulges.

Favorite Song? As a lifelong Baptist, she has two favorite classic hymns. “My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less,” (sometimes known as The Solid Rock), and “Count Your Blessings.”

She also let me know that when she passes, she wants the congregation to sing “In The Garden” at her funeral.

She asked, “That’s a good one, don’t you think?” I agreed, and we took a minute to sing all three.

October 7 - October 20, 2016

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Favorite Scripture? “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13.

Favorite books? The “Little House” series, and she loved the TV adaptation of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s tales.

Favorite TV shows? Again, Little House on the Prairie, the Waltons, and Bonanza.

Favorite Landon.

actor?

Michael

Favorite President? Ronald Reagan.

Biggest change in her lifetime? “Technology,” she said. “It can be used for great good or great evil. I worry about it sometimes,” she said.

What is the best advice she could give to young people? “Don’t get so drawn into computers that you forget to go outside and ride your bike,” she said. Then she added, “Parents need to be aware of what their kids are doing on the computer.”

Sage advice from an experienced mom and a nanny.

Thank you, Miss Jean!

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October 7 - October 20, 2016

The Millennial Mind

Third Party Poverty

by Rosemary Dewar Poverty in western civilization has become a padded cell for the mind.

America’s practices of capitalism and free enterprise have allowed for the greatest exposition of equal opportunity. Technology and education have never been as accessible as they are today. To ask, “Why didn’t equality happen faster?” is an unfair question. Time is a sensitive element of nature, and robbing anyone of the experience of “learningwith-time” cheapens the worth of that knowledge gained. Giving one the same chance to either fail or succeed is the greatest opportunity America has achieved throughout her history.

For many on the left, equality of outcome is valued more than experience of learning from failure.

The existence of failure is unacceptable for leftists.

Standards and rules are perceived as discriminatory, insurmountable hurdles. The inability to meet specific, challenging goals is seen as an injustice. The fiscal and societal costs, as well as the risk of lowering standards are rarely evaluated. For example, secondary education institutions are expected to assess diversity of origin over levels of achievement. SAT and ACT scores have been subject to man-made fairness procedures. A Princeton University study, published in 2004, revealed that minorities were receiving an average of 200+ bonus points on their score, just for identifying their eth-

nicity. Other ethnic groups were deducted points for the same action. The University had hoped to see a dramatic increase in minorities graduating, but the result was nearly static.

Such enforcements of affirmative action are not justice. A merit earned has far more integrity than a favor frantically given. The book of Proverbs asserts, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, but those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty.”

As ideal or seemingly utopian as society could be with zero inequality, that type of structure is unachievable.

America dealt with this during its colonial infancy.

Colonists experimented with communal ethics and were nearly eliminated by those ethics’ certain failure.

The Jamestown, Virginia settlement was reduced by food shortages, disease, and cannibalism that resulted from dwindling community farming. Some

October 7 - October 20, 2016

of the same occurrences can be observed today.

Most recently, Venezuela’s implementation of socialist and communist means of production has completely bankrupted the country.

Citizens are hunting dogs in order to eat. Surrounding countries have opened their borders in order for Venezuelans to have access to basic goods, food, and healthcare.

Economic and moral fairness is simply never equal.

It never has been. Humanity is too greatly individually diverse in order for everyone to be idyllically equal. The United States’ aim was to give the opportunity for the individual to pursue the level of achievement they were willing to muster without the violation of someone else’s opportunity to do the same.

Socialism, communism, and hybrids thereof diminish that opportunity. Karl Marx believed, “From each according to his ability to each according to his

need(s).” This is neither moral, nor just. However, the left continues to believe that because they recognize a disparity, they are morally superior enough to correct it themselves. To put it simply, they play God, and fail miserably.

The character Salieri, in 1984’s Amadeus, encounters Mozart’s work and loathes him for his undeniable superior gift. Salieri has status and wealth, but it is not enough. Finally fed up with God’s distribution of talent, he vows to God, “From now, we are enemies... You and I. Because You choose for Your instrument a boastful, lustful, smutty, infantile boy, and give me for reward only to recognize the incarnation.

Because You are unjust, unfair, unkind, I will block You, I swear it. I will hinder and harm Your creature as far as I am able. I will ruin Your incarnation.” The left makes the same claims about the wealthy without hesitation or proof. Money,

talent, or ethnic origin does not make one evil.

Insisting that someone is evil without evidence is to forcibly silence them, and that is what is evil.

Even when given the most free and equal circumstances, it is impossible to predict a level of effort one will exert. One cannot make someone obtain something they do not want for themselves. In the movie, Good Will Hunting, the character Will is a savant with a rebellious streak. He is given the opportunity to greatly succeed without actual merit, and arrogantly blows it for amusement. His best friend, Chuckie, doesn’t understand why he didn’t take it, and tells him, “No. No, no no, no. [Forget] you, you don't owe it to yourself man, you owe it to me. ‘Cuz tomorrow I'm gonna wake up and I'll be 50, and I'll still be doin' this [stuff]. And that's all right. That's fine. I mean, you're sittin' on a winnin' lottery ticket… It'd be an insult to us if you're still here in 20 years. Hangin' around here is a […] waste of your time.” (Expletives deleted.)

America’s equal opportunity is based on a free market which is dependent upon voluntary transactions between consenting parties. As long as there is minimal government interference, the results are potentially limitless.

Once a government decides they can seize from one in order to aid others who chose to earn less, they have participated in a third-party implementation of immorality.

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Tourism

Fiddlers’ Convention 50th Anniversary Is Set For October 7th & 8th

by Teresa Todd, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association

The 50th Anniversary of the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers’ Convention will be hosted by the Athens State University on October 7th and 8th.

Athens, Alabama is famous for its music, and at the Fiddlers’ Convention, it is easy to see why. For the past 50 years, on the school’s campus, music, and buck dancing along with wonderful food and crafts have brought in previous years over 15,000 attendees.

The musical entertainment is held on the steps of Founders’ Hall, previously home to the women’s institution of higher learning and designated

sacred by President Lincoln during the Civil War. The main stage is sponsored by the Alabama Farmers’ Cooperative where over $18,000 in prize money will be awarded throughout the semi-centennial competition.

The Convention will hold competitions on Friday and Saturday, with more than 200 people performing.

There are more than 20 different categories of performances, including fiddle, guitar, harmonica, mandolin, bluegrass banjo, dobro, dulcimer, old time singing, banjo, and buck dancing.

Special performances on Friday, October 7th both at 4:00PM and at 6:00PM

will be presented by Riders In The Sky. Their performances will be held on the Alabama Farmers’ Cooperative Main Stage.

Riders In The Sky is an American Western music group, which began performing in 1977. They have won two Grammy Awards, and have written and performed music for major motion pictures. In their 39 years, Riders In The Sky have performed in over 6,200 live performances, almost 300 national television appearances, over 200 public radio shows, 700 Grand Ole Opry appearances, and three television series.

They call Nashville, TN home.

Performing on Saturday, October 8th will be Norman Blake, Nancy Blake, and James Bryan at 5:00PM. Norman is an American instrumentalist, vocalist, and songwriter. In a career

spanning more than 60 years, he has played in a number of folk and country groups. He is considered one of the leading figures in the bluegrass revival of the 1970s and is

still active today, playing concert dates and making albums with Nancy Blake, and many other musicians.

You can’t have great entertainment without having great food and hand-made crafts. The Convention will have oldfashioned arts and crafts at approximately 150 booths. Food items will range from quick snacks to full meals, all delicious, and many from our local restaurants.

Gates open at 8:00AM. Cost is $15 for Friday, $15 for Saturday and $20 for both days. Children under 12 are admitted free with a parent. Advance tickets are available from the Athens State Business Office, located in Founders’ Hall at 300 North Beaty Street.

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October 7 - October 20, 2016

October 7 - October 20, 2016

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Clean and Green

So Much To Remember!

2017 Paws For The Environment Calendar Will Help

by Lynne Hart

Athens is such a wonderful city to call home. It is also a wonderful place to visit. I know this because I was a visitor first before becoming a resident.

I also have family that come to visit, and always take a bit of Athens back home with them.

Proceeds from calendar sales support projects and programs of Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful.

Fundraisers are a necessity to raise nearly $40,000 of our $70,000 budget for the fiscal year. Our budget is small, and we run a tight ship. That $70,000 includes salaries, utilities, office supplies, insurances, projects, programs, and more. We are proud of our fiscal responsibility with your support and donations.

What makes Athens and Limestone County such an inviting place? It’s the people who live here, of course! Athens opens its arms wide to welcome visitors from near and far, and the warmth is tangible.

Where to Purchase Calendars

It takes good people, volunteers, and many hours of time to produce the quality of life that is available here. It is a quality that attracts visitors to come and see what it is that we love about the South.

Every time you turn around, there is something going on in Athens and Limestone County!

It surprises me to hear anyone say “there’s nothing to do in Athens.” WHAT? There is barely a weekend that goes by that isn’t offering something to do, see, or hear.

There is so much going on that it’s often hard to keep track of it all! KALB hopes that we have created a solution.

Last Spring, we had our first Paws For The Environment Pet Photo Contest. Twelve winners were selected by the top number of paid votes received by each dog. Those dogs earned a place in KALB’s

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formation about your local, non-profit recycling center.

•Of course, we’ve included information about KALB and some service we provide that you may not have known about.

first Paws For The Environment 2017 Calendar.

So what makes this calendar so special?

Our calendar is unique. It was designed to be a useful tool. Here are some of what our calendar includes: •Pictures of some of the cutest dogs in the AthensLimestone area! Included with each picture is a

story of how these dogs met and won the hearts of their humans.

•Many local annual events are already included and highlighted on the calendar, so you won’t miss them.

•Two pages of valuable coupons to local restaurants and businesses are included.

•You will find useful in-

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•On the inside back cover, you will find a list of important telephone number for city, county, and other services and organizations that you will have at your fingertips.

Calendars are $15 each and will be available at the Fiddlers Convention at the KALB tent. They are also available at the KALB office at 125 East St. across from the duck pond. You may also see them at other locations around Athens.

Anyone who lives, works, or plays in Athens will appreciate all that this unique calendar offers.

Please consider them for Christmas gifts for your family, friends, co-workers, or employees.

For more information, call or email the KALB office. We are here to serve.

Become a Fan

(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com October 7 - October 20, 2016

Cooking with Tammy

Honey Mustard Chicken

by Tammy Wilkinson, owner of Arabella's Cakes and Catering This chicken dish has been known to make mouths water and folks ask for seconds. It is easy, suitable for a special meal, delicious hot or cold, and can be nicely paired with potatoes, quinoa or rice. Prep time is about 10 minutes if you use potatoes, which can be baked in the same dish as the chicken. You can use thighs, (which I prefer), or breasts. It takes about an hour’s baking time to get everything tender, and it helps to baste the spuds as well as the chicken mid way through. You will want to quickly baste and check again at the last 15-minute mark to see if you need to cover with foil, as sometimes maple sugar can cause the sauce to get too brown. It is a good idea to reduce your temp to 375F for the last 15 minutes, and once you take it out of the oven, let it stand for about 5 minutes before serving.

Ingredients:

8 chicken thighs, figuring on two per person 8 red potatoes, or any other small potato that can fit between the chicken pieces and soak up the juice ¼ cup REAL maple syrup ¼ cup stone ground or Dijon mustard ½ teaspoon of minced garlic ¼ teaspoon Organic Seasoning from Costco, or your favorite poultry seasoning Salt and pepper to taste Directions: Heat oven to 400F. Place thighs and potatoes in a glass 9x 13 Pyrex baking dish. It is not necessary to grease the pan, but a light coating of coconut oil subtly layers in extra flavor. Mix together the mustard, syrup, garlic, and seasoning in a small dish and spoon it over the chicken. Use any leftover mixture on the potatoes if you wish. I think it blends the flavors together, but this is optional. If you are using breasts, depending upon the size of the meat, or larger potatoes, you can increase your syrup and mustard amounts to ½ cup each, and use two pans to insure that everything gets fully cooked. Serve with a harvest salad and your favorite fall beverage.

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Health and Fitness

Slow Metabolism

by Janet Hunt

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

Metabolism is the way your body converts food and drinks to energy, and is usually measured in calories. You can determine how many calories your body burns each day by plugging different information into various formulas. All the various calculations have limitations. The most accurate method is to have your metabolism measured through indirect calorimetry. This method uses a machine to measure oxygen consumption; and in less than 10 minutes you can know your resting metabolic rate (RMR).

Metabolism is a complex process that is affected by what you eat; how much you exercise, and your lifestyle. Some of the lifestyle habits may be having a huge negative affect. Below are some things to consider.

Inconsistent Meals.

When meals come at reg-

ular intervals, your body uses up the calories for fuel and burns more calories in between meals. If your eating pattern is inconsistent, your body gets confused and isn’t quite sure when the next meal is coming, so it goes into conservation mode. Your calorie burn is reduced and more food is put into storage (fat cells and glycogen stores).

Eating too little. If you are “dieting” to lose weight, eating too few calories can actually backfire because cutting calories too much will put your body into a starvation mode and slow your metabolism to keep you alive.

Skipping resistance work or strength training. Many people do only

benefit to muscles because if contains proteins that help build muscles and prevent muscle breakdown.

aerobic work because it burns the most calories.

But strength training is important because it is directly related to muscle mass and the more muscle tissue you have, the higher your metabolic rate. You can do strength training by lifting weights, using resistance bands or your own body weight. (High resistance, low repetitions, and slow movements.)

to dehydration which can cause you to burn 2% fewer calories. Try to drink at least 8 – 9 cups of water each day.

Not getting enough calcium. Calcium plays an important role in fat metabolism. Low fat dairy is a great source of calcium that also offers an extra

Stress. Stress is probably the number-one factor impacting metabolism. It increases the production of cortisol, a hormone that increases appetite and makes us reach for comfort foods.

It can decrease our desire for exercise, even though exercise is a powerful stressbuster. Stress slows digestion, causing a lower need to metabolize calories. Plus, stress can impact our quality of sleep and number hours we sleep.

For more detailed information regarding boosting your metabolism, talk to a Certified Health Coach or a Certified Personal Trainer.

(Janet Hunt 256-614-3530).

Too much sitting. Even if you exercise an hour a day, if you spend the remaining 23 hours sitting or sleeping, your metabolism will slow down. Sitting more than 20 minutes can put your body into a more relaxed, non-energy-burning state. Regular movement will cause small spikes in your metabolism as well as lower your triglycerides, blood sugar, and cholesterol.

What you drink. Drinking too little water leads

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October 7 - October 20, 2016

Cover Story

The 10th Annual Storytelling Festival: From A Dream To A Total Delight

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

from the Civil War era about a young woman from Florence, AL, and it happens to be true.

For the 4th time, there will be an amateur night held on Tuesday, October 18th. It is now called “The Dan Williams Memorial Annual Storytelling Night” in honor of our recently departed Mayor and State Representative, who was a fine ‘teller in his own right. Wayne and Leah Oakley both told me that they have a great line-up of local competitors who can

continued from page 1

well as the ‘tellers. It started out as a dream, after a group of local citizens came back from the internationally famous Jonesboro Storytelling Festival held in Tennessee, and now it has become one of the most enjoyable as well as award winning parts of our local fall festival season. This year’s festival will be held from October 18th through the 22nd. A committed group of hard working volunteers and local businesses has kept the ‘tellers happily coming back each fall. In addition, the police, Athens State University, Athens Renaissance School, legislators, teachers, and just about the whole town comes together to pull it off without a hiccup. “I can’t say enough about the volunteers and supporters of Storytelling,” Wayne told me. He continued with gratitude as he mentioned that the pumpkins are provided by the Isoms, and Hobbs’ Farms provide the corn to decorate the tent and the Square.

To gain some perspective as to just how special our festival is, there are approximately 300 storytelling events held each year all over the country, and the ‘tellers are on the road far more than they are at home. When they tell you that they greatly love coming here, it is not to impress, they genuinely are stunned each year by how we take care of them with our southern hospitality. While I was conducting the annual Athens Now Storytelling Festival interview with Wayne Kuykendall, who heads up the event, I had a chance to send Carmen Deedy, (one of the students’ favorite ‘tellers) a text from the two of us, telling her how much we would miss her this year. She has some family responsibilities that are preventing her from being a part of this year’s festival, and she made no small showing of her disappointment at not be-

ing able to attend. The ‘tellers love everything from the tent on the town square to the way the kids treat them when they see them, and they are not reticent to let that be known.

Speaking of the kids, once again this year there will be an extra day for them to hear the ‘tellers. That is because our local state legislators have secured funding for public school, private school and homeschool students to attend for free. We are all grate-

ful to Senators Orr, Holtzclaw and Melson, along with Representatives Crawford, Williams, Greer, Hammon and McCutcheon for making it possible for students to attend.

We are the only Storytelling Festival in the country to do so. This year Bil Lepp and Carol Cain will be handling

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the school kids’ event, and Wayne also told me that “now Storytelling meets two of the curriculum core standards.” Another feature of this year’s kid’s event is that high school students are able to attend.

Students from the age of 9-18 will be able to soak up all the benefits of storytelling, one being that some students have indicated to their teachers that they want to make ‘telling

their career.

So, what is new for the 2016 festival? “For the 10th anniversary, we will have Three On A String,” Wayne told me.

These guys are out of Birmingham, and have done music for Rick and Bubba, played for two US Presidents, and are in the Alabama Blue Grass

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and Alabama Music Halls of Fame, respectively.

The rest of the legendary ‘telling troupe includes Donald Davis, Andy Offut Irwin, Michael Reno Harrell, and Dolores Hydock. In addition, Bobby Horton of Three On A String and Dolores are going to pool their talent to tell a tale

spin a yarn with the best of ‘em.

The winner of the amateur contest will be announced on Thursday night at the event called the Olio. “Olio” has two interesting definitions: a miscellaneous collection, or a variety act or show. It is the perfect “opening act” for the rest of the weekend, one where you could very well “laugh ‘til you cry, and cry ‘til you laugh.” Come to Storytelling 2016 with your family, and enjoy the dream that has become a delight for us all.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.athensstorytellingfestival.com, or for more information, call Wayne Kuykendall at 256-232-0400.

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October 7 - October 20, 2016

Cover Story

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Absentee Voting, But Were Afraid To Ask

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

the residents of Limestone County are fully educated as to the process so they can participate in it if they qualify.

I have long been impressed with how seriously officials and volunteers alike in Limestone County approach their responsibilities when it comes to voting. It doesn’t matter if the election is confined to our city, or if it is on the federal level, making sure that things are done “decently and in order” is a top priority, for which I am most grateful.

Probably the most important things to talk about first are the dates for absentee voting in this election, and then who qualifies. The last day to apply for an absentee ballot is Thursday, November 3rd. However, Brad emphasized two things: the entire process must be completed within 5 days, and you absolutely CANNOT vote on Friday, November 4th. “Don’t procrastinate,” he said, and added, “You don’t want your vote to not count because it wasn’t submitted on time.”

Who qualifies for an absentee ballot? According to the official Limestone County voting website found at http://www. votelimestone.com/voterinformation/absentee-voting/, absentee voting may be utilized if the voter: • WILL BE ABSENT FROM THE COUNTY on election day • IS ILL OR HAS A PHYSICAL DISABILITY that prevents a trip to the polling place • IS AREGISTERED ALABAMA VOTER LIVING OUTSIDE THE COUNTY such as a member of the armed forces, a voter em-

ployed outside the United States, a college student, or a spouse or child of such a person • IS AN APPOINTED ELECTION OFFICER OR POLL WATCHER at a polling place other than his or her regular polling place • WORKS A REQUIRED SHIFT, 10-HOURS OR MORE, that coincides with polling hours BUSINESS/MEDICAL EMERGENCY VOTING applications can be made after the absentee deadline but no later than 5:00 p.m. on the day before the election, if the voter: • is required by an employer under unforeseen circumstances to be out of the county on election day for

an emergency business trip, or • has a medical emergency requiring treatment by a licensed physician In addition, the business emergency application contains an affidavit acknowledging that the voter was not aware of the out-of-county

October 7 - October 20, 2016

unlocked. “This is a way to get their vote counted, especially soldiers,” said Brad. I know that when I was in Iraq soldiers complained that their votes were not counted, and I am glad to know that this secure option exists to serve them.

Circuit Court Clerk Brad Curnutt processing an absentee ballot.

If you have qualified for absentee voting state side, you can either mail in your ballot, or cast it in person at the Circuit Court Clerk’s office, which is located on the second floor of the Limestone County Water Authority building. The physical address where you come to cast your ballot under supervision is 520 South Jefferson Street, Athens, AL 35611. That’s the corner of Jefferson and Forrest. The hours you can cast your ballot are Monday through Friday, 8 am until noon, and 1pm until 4:30pm.

If you mail your ballot, the address you want to use is 200 Washington Street West, Athens, AL, 35611. You must bring approved identification in order to vote. Brad said with a chuckle, “Ain’t no dead people voting!”

business trip prior to the normal absentee ballot deadline. The medical emergency application requires that the attending physician describe and certify the circumstances as constituting an emergency.

It is interesting to note that Limestone County was a test county for UAOCAVA, which stands for Uniformed

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and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, which was developed to make sure that everyone had a chance to vote securely, and now all counties must comply. Brad is more than satisfied with the UAOCAVA’s cyber-security level, and here is how it works: the completed paper application is sent to Brad’s office, it is approved, then the link with a PIN# is emailed to the voter.

It is held until voting day, then

Brad also told me, “So far we have processed around 425 votes.” He then added, “Some people think their vote only counts in a tie, but every vote counts, and every vote is locked up until it’s counted.” He personally records the date an application is received, when the ballot is sent, and the date the ballot was returned. All in all, every precaution is taken to ensure your right to vote is protected, so please, don’t fail to use the absentee voting option if you need it. If you have any questions, call Brad at the Circuit Court Clerk’s office at (256) 233-6406.

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Learning As A Lifestyle

Can You Believe It?

by Wanda Campbell

Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 It is already October; just 79 days until Christmas, and 42 days until Christmas Open House. Where does the time go?

AND, this week-end is the Fiddlers’ Convention. The Center for Lifelong Learning will have a booth on the campus of Athens State University, next to McCandless Hall.

Y’all come see us there!

We will have tickets to the Songwriters Showcase on November 11th, raffle tickets for an acoustic guitar and a month of lessons from the Guitar Center in Huntsville, and the Lifelong Recipes cookbook that was just published.

We will tell you about dance lessons and blacksmith classes, about upcoming trips, and so much more. Even if you are not interested in those things, stop by and say hi!

Coming up next week is

the Leadership Lunch and Learn. The theme for this year is The Ethical Leader. This short-term, focused series is an ideal way to add to your skill set or update a previously completed certificate.

The Ethical Leader Certificate will be awarded to those students who attend all five sessions and complete the outside reading assignment. This program will begin October 13th, and continue to April 13th. Courses are scheduled once a month, on Thursday, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. There is one outside reading assignment. This program is approved for 20 contact hours of training or two (2) CEUs. The fee is $25/per session, but is you register for the whole series you can save $30. Chamber Members can register for $15/per session. Sessions are held at the Center for

Dynetics Solutions Complex, 1004 Explorer Boulevard, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Lunch is provided with this program, and the first 50 people who register will receive a copy of Ms. Spalla’s book.

The fee for the program is $25 which includes lunch.

Limited transportation to Huntsville is available on a first call, first served Lifelong Learning, located at 121 South Marion Street in Athens. Because lunch is provided, pre-registration is required. The program begins with lunch at 11:00 am, class will start at 11:30 am and end no later than 1:00 pm.

The October 13th class is The Ethical Leader, taught

by Dr. Robert White, director of the Coleman Center for Religious Studies and Ethics, and professor of religion at Athens State

University. For more information about the course, you can contact Wanda Campbell at 256-233-8262 or email wanda.campbell@athens.edu.

October 19th we will conclude the Caring for Older Adults program with Linda Spalla, author of “Catch Your Breath: Tender Meditations for Caregivers.” The program will be held in Huntsville at the

basis. To register for the program, and reserve your seat in the van, call 256233-8260. Also available for this program are local experts who will discuss transition to assisted living, hiring sitters, and managing medicine as well as other topics.

If you want to know more about what is happening at the Center for Lifelong Learning, stop by 121 South Marion Street, in Athens – on the east side of the Courthouse, or give us a call at 256-233-8260.

You can find us on Facebook – Center for Lifelong Learning – Athens State University, and on the web at www.athens. edu/cll.

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October 7 - October 20, 2016

What Makes Ronnie Roll

Crunching Numbers And Celebrating Fall

by Ali Elizabeth Turner As I have talked about before, Mayor Ronnie is one of those rare birds who absolutely loves budgets. To him, they are like a 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle, and when by state law that last piece is put in place by September 30th, he and the rest of City Council is free to enjoy Fiddlers’ and Storytelling. With this year being special anniversaries for both, he was especially glad that the “budget came in on time and under budget.”

He was very pleased to report that the General Fund will be $1.2 million dollars in the black, and our city is in good shape to face several challeng-

es. First of all, there are several city employees who have reached retirement age, and as is the case with many Baby Boomers, funding their retirement packages is not easy, by virtue of the fact that we are a huge part of the population.

“We are going to be able to get the fire truck we need, and it is on its way,” he said. Other things that are going to be able to be purchased will be a garbage truck and new police cars. “Public safety is always going to be our top priority,” he said, and the top two budget items were both tied to filling that need.

He spent a good deal of

October 7 - October 20, 2016

time expressing his gratitude for the work of all the department heads, City Council members and especially that of Annette Barnes. I know from experience that the woman’s command with numbers, both those that are in “the red” as well as those in “the black” is phenomenal. “Tons of work was done prior to the vote on the budget,” he said. He mentioned that Councilman Frank Travis, the newest member of Athens City Council was amazed at the work Annette had done before they had their all day work session to button up the budget.

“We got it done, and now we can head straight in

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to festival season,” said Mayor Ronnie. He took a moment to reflect on the positive effect the 5K runs have on our community.

He started with the 9/11 Heroes’ Run, the Keep Athens Limestone Beautiful Duck and Run, the Apple Annie Charity 5K, and as one who has run in those races, I can say he has always been on hand early on race day to cheer people on. In addition, this weekend the Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby will be held on Saturday during Fiddlers’, and he will even be on hand to cheer on the ducks as they “fly” down the spillway of Big Spring Park.

“Festival season is just

that much sweeter because the budget is finished,” he said with reasonable pride. Then he mentioned his concern for Athens Police Chief Floyd Johnson, who, at the time of our interview was in Athens Limestone Hospital battling pneumonia. “Oh, man,” I said, “Let’s pray.” So we did, and then it was time for Ronnie to roll.

It was later that day it was with great joy that I got the news that Chief had been released from the hospital to his home, and as far as I am concerned, for all of us, that was as sweet as the music of any festival, and the best of any stories.

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Dog Barker

Being Prepared

by Joel Allen There is always this question in my mind, “If the crap hit the fan, what would I do?” Am I ready for the possibilities of things to come? Am I prepared to take care of my family, including my fur babies?

Asking all of the above questions, here is the SITREP (Situation Report, as we call it in the Army): All the stores are empty and people are panicking. The gas stations are out of fuel and their shelves are empty. People everywhere are looking out for themselves.

Life as you know it just turned really bad quick, and you find yourself carrying a firearm with the intent to protect what you have. There is wailing and crying because many were not ready. They have no extra food, water, or simple things that could assist them in living. You see people who you considered friends all of a sudden look at you differently because they know you have a home with preparations in it. They know you have a few dogs that will want for nothing because you prepared for an emergency. “Hey”, you hear, “I am more important than your dogs. You should give me shelter or help me and my family. Please!” This is a time that you should consider a bug out plan. Lucky for you, that plan was prepared a while back.

I know I am sounding heartless, but I personally choose my dogs. I planned ahead and took precautions. Would I help if I could? Yes, but where there is one that you help, too many will come looking and just like a life boat off a sinking ship with too many people trying to save themselves, all could be lost.

Let us pretend we are bugging out. Of course, I am taking my dogs. Will it be risky? Yes, but that is life. This choice will make life harder because no one can carry a large supply of food. I would try and use my dogs to assist in carrying much

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needed supplies. I would also invest in a light pistol or small caliber rifle, a bow set, and sling shot. This is where your skills as a camper or bushman will come in handy. Knowing what plants can be eaten or used will be important, as well as being able to set snares or traps to catch that much needed protein. Protein in the wild

fan? My recommendation is to build a prepper kit at home. In this cache I would store up water. The best way to store water is to either buy those 55 gallon plastic drums that you see in the classifieds and fill one up a month. Or as you empty a gallon jug of milk or tea, wash them out and fill with water. Generally speaking,

coming along, too.

I would recommend buying large quantities of dry dog food, sugar, salt, flour, corn meal, a variety of dry beans, rice, and oatmeal. Here is something many of you may not know.

Dry beans are also seeds. So, if you can plant them, they will grow and become a harvest.

A few items I would invest in would be fire starter kits, matches, a solar cooker, a cast iron set, and a food dehydrator.

A solar cooker comes in handy on clear sunny days and does not smoke. That helps with staying hidden if needed. The cast iron set would be great for cooking over a fire and of course in a relatively safe area.

The food dehydrator is a great way to buy fruits and vegetables fresh and store them once prepared and placed in the dehydrator.

Now, if everyone is smart they will be educating themselves and their surroundings and learning what plants can assist in everyday life. An example would be the mullberry bush.

Its leaves have a natural insect repellent. I would recommend you pluck the leaves, crush them, and scrub them across your skin and that will assist in deterring insects from biting.

There is so much excellent bush craft knowledge available, I would recommend that everyone study and greatly increase your chances of survival.

is energy, and certain plants can provide the carbohydrates you will need. Your supplies should be enough to get you from point A to point B, where you have a supply dump or other storage to meet your survival needs.

Now, let’s say we don’t bug out, and we just hunker down.

Then here is what I would do. So, what should we do to avoid needing help and ensuring what we love is looked after should the crap hit the

one can live on water alone for no more than 3 weeks without eating. So, water is the most vital. Another method of having water is locating any natural springs in the area you live.

Remember that a water purification system would be helpful, but there are other natural ways to purify water. This will have to be something you read up on.

At the same time everyone is working on their water supply, your food supply should be

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Sam’s, Costco, Wal-Mart, and other stores carry these supplies in bulk. I would also buy large amounts of canned foods such as beans, sauces, (because you know you need something different every now and again), canned fruits, and bags of nuts. Then I would take a course in canning and storing my food supply. Mormons, or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, have been known to offer classes to assist in the storing of food.

Lastly, I suggested earlier that you invest in weapons to aid you in personal defense, but I would also recommend items such as medical supplies, a small shovel, a small axe, and a good knife. These items are very important to for surviving in the wilderness, or just everyday life.

“Remember to love your dogs because they love you. Maybe not the way you want them to, like chewing up your favorite shoes or what not, but that is just love chewing. Be thankful for the time you have with them always.”

Joel and Zues Allen 256-651-2211

October 7 - October 20, 2016

Jerry’s Journal

Ma and Pa Take Seattle

by Jerry Barksdale www.jerrybarksdale.com Six years of retirement doing nothing but sleeping late, reading, writing, and mowing grass had finally taken its toll. I was stressed. I needed a vacation. My good friend (and sometimes redhead) Pat and I decided to visit a foreign country - Seattle.

“Oh yeah, I’m retired Air Force. Did you sleep?” she asked.

Alarm clocks are untrustworthy. I kept waking up and checking the clock and my cell phone to be sure they were working. Finally, I got up at 3 a.m. I was tired when we arrived at Huntsville International at 4:30 a.m. to catch our flight. At Houston, I purchased a dab of fried potatoes and toast for $17 and had just sat down to enjoy a leisurely breakfast when we were told we were at the wrong gate. We ran to board our flight just before the door closed. Anybody have Rolaids?

She tried to reassure me and told about her flight from Iraq aboard a cargo plane loaded with equipment and soldiers. The Sergeant seated next to her was nervous.

She patted him on the knee and said it would be okay.

We were seated in the back row, just in front of the chicken coops. Pat was across the aisle near a sneezing and coughing guy.

I was squeezed between a large, high- tech guy with ear phones, laptop and a nervous twitch. His elbow kept stabbing me in the ribs. A young woman in the window seat turned her butt to me and went to sleep. It was a five-hour flight to Seattle. I re-breakfasted on 14 pretzels and coffee.

My butt went to sleep. I needed to pee. I reminded myself that I was happy, relaxed, and on vacation.

Then, we encountered turbulence. “Holy crap!” We just hit a hog in the road,” I exclaimed. The woman turned around and smiled.

I asked if she went to sleep.

“No way. I was on duty while everyone else slept, listening to every squeak,” I said. “There are over 100,000 screws in this plane and any one can break any second.”

“Lady, you don’t understand. I’m Crew Chief of this bird and it’s a piece of ……”

I didn’t need to hear that.

Then she pointed out snowcovered Mt Saint Helen’s, a volcano with the top blown off. “There are several volcanic mountains in the area that can blow at any time.”

I again reminded myself that I was happy, relaxed, and on vacation. We exchanged histories. She was divorced with a 13-year-old boy. I told her about my past troubles and eventual divorce.

“Anything with a uterus is trouble,” she said. (I disassociate myself from that statement and demand that she apologize to all God’s creatures with a uterus).

In Seattle, we rode a shuttle a hundred yards to our hotel, checked in, ate lunch and slept. The next morning, we shuttled back to the terminal and rode another shuttle to Thrifty Car Rental where I had the deal of a lifetime.

When all the add-ons were added up, I paid double. I told the clerk if I ever caught him in Alabama, I’d get my

October 7 - October 20, 2016

fb.com/jerry.barksdale.7 money back.

We departed in our upgrade Dodge SUV. Finally, our real vacation had begun. I missed the I-5 exit and wound up back at the Thrifty garage.

It was noon on the second day of our vacation and we were still within 100 yards of where we had landed. Pat was sneezing and coughing.

I gave her my handkerchief.

(Memo to self: apply for a government grant and research why women won’t carry a handkerchief.)

In downtown Seattle, we searched for our hotel. Pat pulled out her iPhone and asked Siri for directions. In a moment Siri said, “Youhave-arrived.” God Bless Siri. I parked in front of our hotel, walked inside, and informed the blonde that I had reservations. “I don’t think so. This is an apartment house.” I walked up the street. Wrong hotel. I blamed Siri for my troubles and wondered if she has a uterus. (I move to strike that thought and apologize to all women). Again, I reminded myself that I was happy, relaxed, and on vacation.

Finally, I walked into the Palladin and checked in.

The following morning, I lost my wallet stuffed with cash and credit cards. We tore the room apart searching for it. That hussy Siri was harassing me again.

Luckily, I found it in the lobby, undisturbed.

You know you are in Seattle when you see half of the Japanese nation; smell marijuana smoke (I didn’t inhale), and see young men and women dressed in black with eyes glued to a cell phone while clutching

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a $5.00 cup of Starbucks.

There are over 200 Starbucks’ in Seattle. Marijuana is legal. I figured it out. Get people stoned, and they’ll pay five bucks for a dollar cup of joe and think they’re getting a steal.

We could have taken a cannabis tour and seen where pot is grown and sold, but instead decided to get high by going to the top of the Space Needle. Homeless people were occupying the nearby cafeteria. Pat gave her breakfast bagel to a young homeless boy (memo to self: but for the grace of God there go I).

I saw numerous “Bernie for President” signs. Bernie proposes to give away other people’s money. Great idea!

As long as it isn’t my money.

(Memo to self: What happens when Bernie runs out of other people’s money?)

We dined at Ivar’s on the waterfront. Verrrryyy expensive. Tips aren’t expected. Our waiter said that the minimum wage had been raised to $15.00 an hour.

That’s over $31,000.00 annually, plus employees are paid 8% of the profits. Now I know why our meal was verrryyy expensive. Didn’t see a McDonald’s and 62₡ senior coffee anywhere.

We drove south to Vancouver on the Columbia River, checked into a hotel, then walked up town for a sandwich. We passed three young people at a bus stop passing around a joint.

(Again, I didn’t inhale).

Back at the hotel, the plastic swipe key wouldn’t open the door. That hussy Siri was back screwing me over again. I headed off to the

front desk to give them a piece of my mind. Looked at the key holder. “Oops!

Wrong floor.” I’m happy, relaxed, and on vacation.

Across the river in Portland, Oregon, an enlightened city, “known for its eco-friendliness, microbreweries and coffee houses,” cops were running off the homeless camped along the 15 mile walking and bike trail. The spandex-clad, Starbucks sipping yuppies, wearing ear phones and riding $1,000 bicycles had a bellyful of the homeless. After all, poor folks are unsightly and often smell bad. Pat was incensed and said the Mayor should be arrested.

(Memo to self: I prefer people-friendly over ecofriendly).

It’s against the law to pump your gas in Oregon. At a Chevron station, I paid $2.49 for regular. The attendant said he was paid $9.75 an hour to pump gas.

I suppose that’s the reason the gas was expensive.

We drove to picturesque Cannon Beach on the Oregon coast where the surf crashed against rocky cliffs and seagulls squawked.

Mother Nature was putting on a show. Then, I saw a disturbing sign: “TSUNAMI HAZARD AREA.” Evacuation instructions were in our room. Mother Nature would just as soon kill us as entertain us. I didn’t sleep well that night.

To paraphrase the comedic actor, W.E. Field, all things being equal I’d just as soon be in Athens drinking a 62₡ cup of McDonald’s coffee.

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Medical Update

The Limestone County Council On Aging: Assistance With Medicare And More

by Madison Curnutt The Limestone County Council on Aging (COA) is a department of the Limestone County Commission. Its services are also supported by Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments (TARCOG), the Area Agency on Aging, the City of Athens, and other local agencies. The COA is located at 912 West Pryor Street in Athens.

The COA was designed to help seniors stay in their homes and be independent as long as they can. Through the COA, seniors are provided with services such as transportation, Meals on Wheels, homemaker services, SeniorX, SHIP (Medicare Part D. counseling), and legal assistance. Our services are offered at no charge to those 60 or older, although donations are always welcome.

There are seven senior centers throughout the county; Athens, East Limestone, Ardmore, Elkmont, Good Springs, Ow-

ens, and Tanner. All centers, except for Ardmore and Good Springs, serve a nutritionally balanced lunch five days per week.

Each center offers daily activities for seniors such as exercise classes, music entertainment, games, etc.

The centers also take fun trips throughout the year, and have done such things as attend picnics, musicals, visit the Amish community, and other community

events. Just recently, they went on a trip to the Huntsville Botanical Gardens, which is an especially popular outing.

Transportation is provided to each center if needed.

The COA also transports seniors to doctors’ appointments, grocery shopping, and errand routes are offered as well. Meals on Wheels are available for those 60 or older who are homebound and cannot

prepare meals for themselves. Currently COA provides 14,000 meals a month to seniors of Limestone County! In-home services are offered to those who cannot perform daily housekeeping duties.

The SeniorX Program assists those 55 or older, who meet the requirements for free or reduced prescription drugs. The COA also offers legal assistance to the seniors. The attorney assists with a variety of legal needs, such as powers of attorney, wills, consumer issues, and long term care. Medicare Part D/ SHIP counseling is available year round. We can help with Medicare questions, enrollment, and help for those who qualify.

Medicare Part D Open Enrollment begins October 15th, and will last until December 7th, 2016. The Limestone County Council on Aging provides free counseling sessions during this period, and usually averages seeing 400 or more

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clients. It is very important to remember that with the Medicare Open Enrollment campaign there are unfortunately a lot of scams that are run which are designed to part seniors from their money. Remember, no one from Medicare will come to your door, and they will not contact you by phone or email. Medicare always sends their correspondence the old fashioned way, by letter.

DO NOT give ANYONE any of your financial information, Social Security number, or bank account numbers. If you have any questions, you need to make an appointment to see the trained counselors who know how to protect and defend seniors! All sessions, whether they are regarding Medicare in general, or possible scams, are by appointment only. Call (256) 233-6412 to set up your appointment as soon as possible.

The counselors are briefed each year on the latest changes and developments and can offer you updated information about changes in premiums, deductibles, etc.

Call the COA at (256) 233-6412 for more information about various activities and programs.

COA is always looking for volunteers to help with Meals on Wheels, educational and recreational programs, classes and special events. Any volunteers are appreciated.

October 7 - October 20, 2016

Foreman’s Forum

Are We All Passengers on Flight 93?

by Paul Foreman

Several weeks ago was the 15th anniversary of 9-11, and many of us gave honor and remembrance to the brave passengers of Flight 93.

“Let’s Roll” has become a battle cry for those of us who realized what was going on in the minds of the heroes of Flight 93 as they bravely, yet no doubt with fear, rushed the terrorists who had commandeered their plane.

One of the passengers, Thomas Burnett Jr., told his wife over the phone, “I know we’re all going to die. There’s three of us who are going to do something about it. I love you, honey.” Another passenger, Todd Beamer, was heard over an open line saying, “Are you guys ready? Let’s roll.”

Most people believe the heroes knew they were going to die, but took the action against the terrorists to prevent the plane from hitting another target like the US Capital.

No matter what they did, death was an absolute. The pilots were already dead, their throats slashed. Can you imagine what it was like being in that plane commandeered by terrorists who, without hesitation, had already slashed the throats of anyone who got in their way? They had to be thinking, “There is no way out of this, except to die.” The in-flight Airfone operator says she prayed the Lord's Prayer with Todd Beamer moments before he yelled, “Let’s Roll!”

Was Todd Beamer praying because he knew he was going to die? Even if he had won the fight and regained control of the plane, now what’s he going to do? I believe the heroes of Flight 93 knew they were going to die, but they were convinced that crashing the plane into a field was far better than letting the hijackers

the people,” we can stay home and do nothing.

That's like curling up in the previously mentioned corner, waiting for death to come. Or, we can get out and vote for one of the two choices.

point extremely liberal judges to the Supreme Court, resulting in another twenty to forty years of court decisions which would certainly destroy our US Constitution and Bill of Rights.

It is my belief that Hillary Clinton is more morally corrupt and dishonest than any candidate

Donald Trump is somewhat questionable. He has made numerous “off the cuff” statements that

crash it into the Capital.

Are we as a nation in a “Flight 93” situation with the 2016 election?

Are we as a nation going to curl up in a corner and just wait to die? Or, are we going to fight against almost insurmountable odds to win back our country from the certain path of destruction which we are currently on?

We actually have three choices this November 8th. No, I don't mean we have a viable third candidate for president. As citizens of a country where the government is supposed to be “by and for

October 7 - October 20, 2016

for president we have ever seen. Donald Trump is also like no other candidate we have ever seen.

Let’s face reality. We know that Clinton is going to continue to take this country into further debt, more moral corruption, do more destruction to our economy and more attacks on our 2nd Amendment rights. She will finish most of the policies President Obama started. She would ap-

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cause us to question his wisdom. But, he seems to be coming around to a more controlled way of thinking. Voting for Trump, to me, is like Flight 93, “Let’s Roll!”

Voting for Hillary Clinton is like curling up in a corner and waiting to die.

Staying home and not voting is also like curling up and waiting to die.

Voting for a third party candidate is, to me, akin to the aforementioned “curling up in a corner and waiting to die.”

Could the heroes of Flight 93 have safely taken control of the plane,

and lived? Outside of a miracle, it’s not likely.

Except in the movies, there are NO records of an untrained passenger ever landing a plane like Flight 93, while taking instructions from a pilot on the ground.

Could Donald Trump take control of our country and fly it to a safe landing? Could some of his advisors tell him how to land our “plane” safely? IF Clinton takes over our “plane” I see nothing but a crashed and burning mess. One of the lines in the Lord’s Prayer, which Todd Beamer prayed just before he and the other heroes died says, “Thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven.” Maybe Todd Beamer and the others carried out God's will and did win in the final moments on Flight 93. The terrorists did NOT crash the plane into our United States Capital. It kinda reminds me of another time, when a man gave up his life for ours.

John 15:13 says: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends,” King James Bible.

Paul Foreman: Is a retired Deputy Sheriff, from Lee County Florida.

Paul is a NRA Certified Pistol Instructor For further information about Firearm's Training, Paul can be reached through e-Mail at Captureman@PaulForeman.com or his web site, www.PaulForeman.com or

by Phone at 256-431-6702

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