October 20, 2017

October 20th - November 2nd, 2017

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

See Our Listings Inside this edition...

Pages 25 - 32

Shepherd Living At The Range: Where The Answer Is Yes

Special Feature

By Ali Elizabeth Turner

The Limestone Health Facility Spotlight On Rebecca Bowman...

Rebecca Bowman was born at home, and was the youngest of seven children. She could be described as...

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Special Feature

When Joe Jasmon, CEO of Shepherd Living at the Range, was 16 years old, his grandma was put in what can only be described as an old-style “nursing home.” It was not a pleasant experience for anyone, his grandma or his family, and as he puts it, “It was a horrible situation.” He could not have known at the time that his family’s dif-

Continued on page 15

ARToberfest: An Oktoberfest event with an artistic twist...

An Athens art organization is giving the German festival known as Oktoberfest an artistic twist for its inaugural event called...

Page 7

Clean And Green Boo-Tiful Fall Holidays With A HocusFocus On EarthFriendly...

Fall is one of my favorite times of the year...

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October 20 - November 2, 2017

The Athens City Schools Foundation: Leaving A Legacy Brick By Brick

By Ali Elizabeth Turner Construction of our new Athens High School on Hwy 31 North is well underway, and the Athens City Schools Foundation is inviting all Athenians to become a permanent part of its legacy and to impact our commu-

Continued on pages 17

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Dr. Chris Hamilton heads up the Athens City Schools Foundation Legacy Brick Drive

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October 20 - November 2, 2017

Publisher’s Point

A Statue That None Dare Move

Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Copy Editor

Yvonne Dempsey

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Contributing Writers Janet Hunt D. A. Slinkard Holly Hollman Paul Foreman Teresa Todd Lisa Philippart Lynne Hart Anna Hamilton Rosemary Dewar Jackie Warner Tim Lambert Wanda Campbell Deb Kitchenmaster Rachel Clark, RN, BSN

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 6 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . . . 7 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 8 Slinkard on Success . . . . . . 9 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . 10 PlayAction Sports . . . . 11 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Anna . . . . 13 The Millennial Mind . . . . . . . 14 Cover Stories . . . . . . 15 & 17 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 16 Learning As A Lifestyle . . 18 View From The Bridge . . 19 Horse Whispering . . . . 20

History has been made in our town once again, due to the fact that a statue has been erected in honor of a timelessly courageous man, Judge James Edwin Horton, Jr. For me personally, the irony is great that in an era when it has become politically fashionable to move controversial stone and/or metal historical figures out of sight so as not to “offend,” under the inspiration of Judge Jimmy Woodruff and others, we in Limestone County have put in plain and permanent view a life-sized reminder of a man who in his day was the embodiment of controversy as well as courage.

I began to learn about the Scottsboro Boys case in my seventh-grade social studies class in the mid-‘60s in Seattle, but I knew nothing about the man who fought for the falsely accused defendants from the bench despite great physical and personal peril. I just knew from my textbook that justice had prevailed, and as a 12-year-old, I was glad.

I didn’t know for nearly 15 years after we moved here in 2000, that it was in our courthouse that “justice rolled down like waters,” as the book of Amos enjoins. This was because the historical narrative implied that everything was settled in Scottsboro, and there was no mention of the fact that this battle was fought all over North Alabama in the circuit court system, it just mentioned that it had gone on up to the Supreme Court of the United States of America.

I have told the story often that it wasn’t until I was attend-

Mental Health Minute . . . 21 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Foreman's Forum . . . . . . . . 23

October 20 - November 2, 2017

ing a political victory reception upstairs in the courtroom where it all occurred, that I happened to notice a small brass historical plaque memorializing the decision, and was happily stunned to con-

to deliver his decision to the citizens of Athens and Limestone County, one of the most important legal decisions in American history powerfully rolled down the staircase and out around the world.

The kids and grandkids told happy tales about His Honor, a consummate gentleman and storyteller who effectively reinvented himself. It is said that Judge Horton never had to struggle for a moment with his decision; it was a clear case of right and wrong. He had the integrity to do right and suffer the consequences, when lynching would have been considered just.

Overturning the wrongful conviction of Haywood Patterson was the end of Horton’s judicial career, and undeterred, he literally picked up his antebellum house which was then located on what is the current site of the Athens City Hall, dismantled it, moved it to Greenbrier, put the house back together, and raised cattle. The house is still standing, the effect of his life is still being felt, and now when visitors to Athens point to the statue and ask, “Who was this guy?” we can all, young and old, black, white, brown, red, yellow, male and female proudly say, “Well, once upon a time there was a man named Judge James Horton…”

My deep thanks to Judge Jimmy Woodruff, Archivist Rebecca Davis, and all who gave in any way to bring us this day. I will never forget it.

sider that just a few feet away from me, history had been altered. Judge Horton proved for generations that the pen was clearly mightier than the sword. When he stood outside atop the courthouse stairs

Horton’s family was on hand for the dedication of the statue, as they were in June of 2016 when we celebrated Judge Horton Day, and the fundraising project was kicked off.

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

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All Things Soldier

Gaudry Has Guts

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

We have been involved as a country for several months now in various controversies about the national anthem, kneeling, protesting, the NFL, and the latest proof that our 1st Amendment protected freedom of expression is alive and well in America is broadcast on radio and TV day to day. In America, we are free to protest, and our soldiers, first responders, law enforcement officers and officers of the court see to it that peaceful protest is protected. There is nothing new about this, and it is one of the things that makes the American Experiment so amazing.

However, suppression of patriotic expression took

on a new twist this past week when a Georgia surgeon aboard a Delta flight from Philly to Atlanta, which was also transporting one of the bodies of the 4 soldiers recently killed in Niger, was told she could not join other passengers in singing the Star Spangled Banner in his honor. The name of the fallen was Staff Sgt Dustin Wright, and the name of the physician who wanted to honor him by singing the national anthem with fellow passengers is Dr. Pamela Gaudry. Dr. Pamela is from Savannah. She and her fellow would-be singers were told that other passengers from other countries who might be on board could be made “un-

anthem? And there’s a soldier onboard?” The flight attendant reiterated that they could not sing the national anthem, and that it was against company policy. One of the most poignant parts of her “recorded confession” was when Pamela said, “I just did the most uncourageous thing in my life today.” comfortable.”

"I couldn't put up with that," Gaudry told The Associated Press in an interview Monday. "I wouldn't be offended if I was in their country."

Not one to make trouble or a scene, she decided to be quiet until she got off the

plane, but she had time to think about what happened while she rested her head on the seatback in front of her. As soon as she deplaned, she recorded a sixand-a-half-minute video on her phone and put it on Facebook. Just three days ago there were more than 778,000 views.

What is so odd about this incident is that the pilot announced over the loudspeaker at the beginning of the flight that Dustin’s body was on board, and there was a virtual groundswell amongst the passengers in response. Dr. Gaudry began asking other passengers if they could join together in singing the national anthem, and they enthusiastically agreed. I have been on flights when soldiers were honored, and there was never any concern about anything or anyone but the brave who were on board.

They started to sing, and then the chief flight attendant came back to Dr. Gaudry’s seat, knelt down, and told her that it was “against company policy to do what you are doing.” As recorded in her viral video, Gaudry later went on to ask the flight attendant, “The national

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Anthony Black, a spokesman for Atlanta-based Delta, declined to comment on the specifics of Dr. Gaudry’s incident, but he did say, "There is not a policy about singing the national anthem, period."

What is Delta policy is that it is not allowed to release the identity of a fallen soldier to other passengers during the course of the flight, and that makes sense from an operational security standpoint. You never know who is on board, or their possible connection to the deceased.

With regard to her video, Dr. Gaudry said, "If it instigates a spiritual and patriotic feeling in this country, I'm thrilled.” She added, "I'm not real thrilled with the attention to myself.”

It seems that the theme of this edition of Athens Now is doing the right thing and suffering the consequences, and what I particularly appreciate is that though she caved a bit in the moment, she re-thought her position and let everyone know the good, the bad and the ugly of what had just happened. In my opinion, that shows true courage, even if it came in the form of a second chance.

In my book, Gaudry has guts.

October 20 - November 2, 2017

The Limestone Health Facility Spotlight On Rebecca Bowman

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Rebecca Bowman was born at home, and was the youngest of seven children. She could be described as a local version of a Tennessee Valley “looper.” By that I mean, she was born 81 years ago in the Shoals, moved to Tennessee where she met her hubby David and lived for several years, came back to the Shoals, and then moved to Athens, so her family could be closer to her and take care of her.

The whole region has been a great place to live for the Bowmans.

She met her husband in Oakridge, Tennessee, at an old-fashioned Ice Cream Social. For awhile she worked for a newspaper, and David worked for the Atomic Energy Commission. Then he answered the call to preach, which he did

for 44 years. David passed away two years ago, surrounded by his family, and it has been an adjustment for all of them. However, as people of faith, their son David could say with a full heart at his father’s funeral that “it was the best day of his life. He took his last breath here, and then his first breath in heaven.”

Miss Rebecca, son David, Kanesha Hamilton from Activities, and I chatted for a bit about wonderful things about the Shoals.

David told me that you could just about see from his childhood home the Swampers’ studio on Jackson Highway where “Sweet Home Alabama” was recorded. We talked about the documentary Muscle Shoals and how such relatively few folks understand the impact the

Shoals had on modern music. I told them stories about the Rosenbaum House and how famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright also designed the furniture, and expected it to be a permanent interior part of his creation. Mrs. Rosenbaum wasn’t having it, put the custom furniture in storage, and only trotted it out when they knew that Frank was coming to town.

We moved on to Rebecca’s favorites.

Favorite color? Blue. All kinds of blue. Kanesha and I winked at each other and explained our chuckle, because blue is EVERYONE’s favorite!

Favorite food to cook? Pecan pie, red velvet cake, and blueberry cream pie.

Favorite

food

to

eat?

Mashed potatoes, corn-onthe-cob, and Miss Rebecca is big on congealed salads. She especially likes the lime Jello and cottage cheese version, as well as strawberry congealed salad. She also loves fresh turnip greens.

Favorite Scripture? John 15: 12 and 17, “Love one another.”

Favorite hymn? “When We All Get To Heaven.”

Favorite books? She loves all kinds of self-help books, and was working on reading Be Joyful, a study on the book of Philippians.

Favorite actress? Marilyn Monroe Favorite singer? George Jones. She likes the fact that George used to live in Florence.

Favorite President? “That peanut farmer from Georgia, Jimmy Carter.”

Biggest change in her lifetime? Microwave ovens.

And while Miss Rebecca

October 20 - November 2, 2017

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was a devoted wife and mom, working tirelessly in the ministry, she also found a lot of satisfaction for several years singing alto with the Sweet Adelines.

Rebecca has been in rehab several times at Limestone Health, most recently for her hip. She said that Kanesha greeted her like a family member with a big hug and said, “Miss Becky, you’re here!” Rebecca loves the care she receives, and says the food is good. She has even gotten a chance to participate in cooking activities, and helped make chicken and dumplings, as well as Mexican cornbread. “They have been wonderful to me every time I have been here,” she said.

I asked her for some parting words of advice, especially for young people.

“Keep yourself pure, and choose your company wisely. No matter what, do what’s right because the Lord is in control.” I say, Amen.

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Calendar of Events Annual Fallen Brothers Charity Ride proceeds will go to the crisis services of North Alabama. Cost is $20.00. Scenic ride from Redstone H-D to Cathedral Caverns State Park.

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

Senior Fun Fest 2017 with the Foundation on Aging Oct 27th

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

Limestone County Event Center, 114 West Pryor Street in Athens. 10:00AM-1:00PM. The football/tailgating themed event will include a free hamburger/hotdog sack lunch, info/goodies from 20-30 vendor booths, door prizes, stage performances, and BINGO for area senior citizens.

SilverSneaker™ Stability class Every Thursday

11:30am – 12:15pm. This class will meet every Thursday at East Limestone Senior Center at 25820 Nick Davis Rd. SilverSneaker™ Stability is a group exercise class designed specifically to keep participants “safe on their feet”. This class will include standing and walking exercises that will be beneficial in decreasing the risk of falling. Chairs are encouraged for warm-up and cool-down only. Donations for the class are accepted. For additional information, call Janet at 256-614-3530 or email at jhunt9155@gmail.com.

Halloween Craft Fair Oct 28

9am - 2pm. Vendor booths will have Halloween themed activity!

Free admission. Bake sale. Unique gift shopping. Door prizes.

Face painting. BBQ plates. Proceeds will help a local family!

Donate can food for local food banks! Vendors confirmed include: LulaRoe - Scentsy - Ashley's Tasty Treats - Avon - Perfectly Posh - Thirty-One - Bargain Babes Boutique - Mary Kay - Everything Crochet- Paparazzi - Matilda Jane - Plunder Designs - Usborne Books - Crafts. The TEARS Foundation of Alabama Tammy's Crafts. More vendor and event announcements soon!

East Lauderdale Quilters 2017 Quilt Show Oct 21

Rogersville, AL. Discipleship Center at Rogersville United Methodist Church, located at 51 Turner Lindsey Road, just off Lee Street. Admission is Free. Members Quilt Hangings to include 2016 Black & White Challenge Quilts, Special Display of Lillian Marlow's Vintage Quilts, Quilters' Boutique, Quilt Trunk Show by Gail Morgan, Demonstrations, Charity Displays for Project Linus & Quilts of Valor. For more information, contact Facebook page -East Lauderdale Quilters, or e-mail eastlauderdalequilters@gmail.com. Come and enjoy a day out and about! Directions: Travel West on Hwy 72 and just over Elk River Bridge, right at first traffic light, left at 4-way traffic light, drive straight as church is on right, but when Hwy 72 crosses turnaround, church will be on left.

Fall Festival at the Shops of Ardmore Avenue Oct 21st

Ardmore, Alabama. Trunk or Treat with merchants, games, coloring contest, Fall food and music. Free

Harvest Fest Oct 29

Friendship United Methodist Church, Lucas Ferry Road in Athens. 4-6:30pm. Rain or Shine. Inflatables, games, food, music, hayrides smores and more!

Annual Fall Festival with Mable Hill Baptist Church Oct 31st

3778 Ready Section Road in Ardmore, AL. 6:00PM-7:30PM Featuring games, prizes, food, and trunk or treat. Free admission, everyone welcome.

2nd Annual Ardmore Softball Chicken Stew Nov 3rd

Ardmore High School Cafeteria. 30285 Ardmore Avenue in Ardmore, AL. 3:30PM-7:00PM. Bring your own Gallon Container for $30.00; Quart for $8.00; Bowl for $5.00; Desserts for $10.00. All proceeds go to Ardmore Softball Program.

Annual Fallen Brothers Charity Ride Oct 21st

Redstone Harley-Davidson, 15100 AL-20 in Greenbrier. Exit 3 on I-565. 10:30AM-4:00PM. Brothers in The Wind Chapter Page 6

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4th Annual Rivalry Run 5K Nov 18

Starting at 8 am. The website to sign up is rivalryrun5k.itsyourrace.com and registration is $25.

October 20 - November 2, 2017

Special Feature

ARToberfest: An Oktoberfest event with an artistic twist

by Holly Hollman An Athens art organization is giving the German festival known as Oktoberfest an artistic twist for its inaugural event called ARToberest.

The celebration of beverages, brats and brushes will be Oct. 20 from 6-9 p.m. at High Cotton Arts in Downtown Athens. Proceeds will benefit Athens Arts League’s mission to support artists, provide art education, and bring cultural events to Athens and Limestone County.

The beverages will include German beer and wine. The food will include a Germanbased menu, and the art auction will include art pieces that artists from High Cotton Arts and the Athens Arts League Board have created using paintbrushes.

The cost for ARToberfest is

$50 per person and includes music by The Little German Band of Huntsville and an exhibit of beer steins provided from the collection of Maria Taylor of Athens. Athens Arts League Board Vice President Diane Lehr said the beer stein collection demonstrates their artistic beauty with scenes such as Bavaria, Excalibur, Russian fairy tales and knights of the realm.

“ARToberfest incorporates the visual and musical arts in an Oktoberfest setting,” Lehr said.

their faces and make a photo.

“For a non-profit art organization, we provide numerous art opportunities in our community from affordable downtown studio space for artists to supplementing art programs in our local school systems to transforming a vacant historic building into the Scout Music House,” said Athens Arts League Board President Amy Golden. “We

•East Limestone High School art survey class, providing guest artists and projects, funded by a grant.

Artists at High Cotton Arts will attend to highlight their studios and art creations ranging from paintings to stained glass to pottery. Artist Karen Middleton has created a portrait station by painting a German couple with open space for event goers to insert

•Art supplies for schools provided through donations from artists and the community.

are able to provide these opportunities because of the community’s support of the arts.”

Some of the art programs Athens Arts League provides include: •High Cotton Arts, a downtown art incubator with affordable studio space, art classes for all ages, a space for cultural events, and space for songwriting and guitar classes.

•Scout Music House, a renovation project at the circa 1938 Scout House to transform the vacant structure into a music venue.

•Boys and Girls Club Summer Art Camps, funded by grants and donations.

October 20 - November 2, 2017

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•Limestone County Department of Human Resources, foster children art classes, funded by grants and donations.

•Participation in Fridays After Five, Chocolate Walk, Sippin’ Cider, Christmas Open House, and other downtown events by providing free music, snacks, and art stations for children.

•The Alabama Spring and the Comic Book Art competitions and exhibits.

Raise your stein! It’s ARToberfest time What: ARToberfest, a fundraiser for Athens Arts League When: Oct. 20 from 6-9 p.m.

Where: High Cotton Arts in Downtown Athens at 103 W. Washington St. Cost: $50 per person.

Tickets: Purchase tickets online at Eventbrite, at High Cotton Arts or by emailing Diane Lehr at dlaal2@aol. com.

Event Menu: Brat bites with a pretzel skewer, fried sauerkraut balls, German potato salad, purple cabbage rollups, and creamy cucumber salad made by Food Fite and German dessert made by Suzanne’s Bakery.

Event Activities: Music by The Little German Band of Huntsville; an art auction for pieces made by local artists; and beer stein exhibit provided from the collection of Maria Taylor.

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

The Ripple Effect

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Mayor Ronnie came bursting in the door with his trademark high level of Monday morning energy, and whipped out his notes from the sermon he had heard on Sunday entitled, “Sideways Thinking.” It had to do with thinking outside of the box, and gaining positive results as a reward. For example, did you know that it was a seasoned airline pilot who came up with the concept of making wheels a built-in part of luggage? It’s something we take for granted, and the pilot’s idea ended up having a true ripple effect.

In the mayor’s case, an idea was given to him

by Bass Fishing Hall of Famer Bill Huntley that is going to have a literal ripple effect in the form of a friendly invasion from an outfit known as Fishing

University. In December, the film crew and celebrities Charlie Ingram and Ray Brazier from the nationally televised program will be coming to Athens.

that shows what fishing is like, as well as highlighting a number of family-friendly tourism attractions around Athens that will be broad-

The City, Tourism and the Limestone County Commission have gone in together to put up the $7500 it takes to accommodate the team; in exchange, we will have a 90-second spot

cast on the show. That spot will be shown over 30 times in 2018, which is perfect, given the up-andcoming bi-centennial celebration of our city as well as our state.

Fishing University has been around for over 30 years and has been nominated for an Emmy. It is the second-longest running outdoor show of its kind anywhere, and is seen in 51 countries in addition to all 50 states. It airs eight times a week, and has a viewership of over 63 mil-

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lion viewers. It is shown on the Outdoor Channel, the Sportsman Channel, and the World Fishing Network.

In addition, one of the best things that Fishing University does is visit a local high school to discuss not only fishing itself as a career, but to showcase various jobs in the outdoor and fishing-based tourism industries. Bass fishing in our area is a big deal— Calhoun’s fishing team is highly ranked nationally, and there are high schools who are involved in the

sport as well. Besides making a presentation to high school students, the crew stays around to answer questions regarding everything from biology, animal husbandry, fish and wildlife, communications, filming, resort management, and more. Then the school which is selected for their visit is filmed and featured in its own two minute segment on the show.

Mayor Ronnie said, “This is going to be a great opportunity for our whole area, and I am really excited they chose us. I am glad that Bill came into my office and said, ‘Hey, I got an idea.’” It might not be as revolutionary as putting wheels on luggage, but it is still something to celebrate. It was time for us to pray, so we did, and then it was time once again for Ronnie to roll.

October 20 - November 2, 2017

Slinkard On Success

Making My List And Checking It Twice

by D. A. Slinkard

D.A. Slinkard is the manager of the Athens Staples store Life doesn’t work that way. I read a quote a long time ago that stated, “The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary.” Sadly though, we have become a society that thinks we can have success the easy way, somehow we can obtain great things by only working four hours per week.

If people would spend as much time working hard as what they do when trying to get out of work, how much better would their life be? If these people utilized the written todo list, they would be so fixated on what they are trying to accomplish that they would not have time to focus upon anything else.

I just don’t have time!

Congratulations, as you have just read the sentence most often repeated with the most amount of conviction throughout the United States.

I oftentimes question how long we must lie to ourselves and to others before we decide that we are going to be honest with who we actually are. For instance, I can be honest with myself that I do not want to work out. I know that I need to, but knowing what I need to do and actually doing the behavior are two different things.

The great thing about this concept is that I am not alone because many other people suffer from the same prognosis.

Simply put, if it is important to us we will find a way, if not we will find an excuse. If you are an individual who finds themselves with more things to do than you have time, then might I suggest that you prioritize your life a little bit better? Some of you may be thinking that you prioritize your life just fine, but again it is time for you to be honest. If you do as good of a job as you think you do, you would be accomplishing more than you are achieving.

In the past I have touched upon the “To-Do List” but have not really expanded upon the topic until now. In the retail industry, I am oftentimes asked how or what makes the biggest impact to my

success. Sadly, the majority of the people that ask this question leave the conversation feeling disappointed, as if they expected me to answer with some great philosophical strategy that would revolutionize the world. My answer is simple – I write stuff down, and I give it a number upon my list of things that I need to accomplish.

Writing things down sounds obviously easy enough to do but many people struggle with this elementary act. Something could have happened during the day that required our attention, but because we did not write it down, we forgot about it. We remembered when

October 20 - November 2, 2017

it was too late, and we become our own worst enemy.

If you go back to my selfdiscipline article, you will find where I touched on this subject, but I believe our lives need to be dominated with the words of self-discipline. I think about the term “overnight success story” and what I have found is that many times these people who have been “lucky” in life actually were very diligent in achieving their success. People fail to realize that the overnight success story was actually ten years in the making. Many times we see the end result of success and confuse it with the beginning result.

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Having success in life is about building a process of what you need to get done, making your list and then attacking said list. This is something that everyone knows they should be doing, but just

like me and working out, there are a ton of people out there that cannot do what they know must be done. You have to find a way to make your list important to you and figure out ways to get beyond the hurdles that will occur in your life. I can’t tell you how many times I breeze through items one through nine but hit a mental roadblock on completing the remaining six items.

I remember an individual telling me a decade ago that they attack their todo list by putting things they dread doing first.

This person found more enjoyment from their day by attacking the “don’t want to” items first, proceeded by the tasks they enjoyed doing. Personally I was never able to get the same excitement doing it this way but to each his own. No matter what, it’s important you have a to-do list.

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Tourism

October Happenings

by Teresa Todd, TMP President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association NORTH POLE STROLL – Christmas trees are being presold for the North Pole Stroll. DEADLINE IS Oct 31, 2017. Lowes of Athens sponsors our 7ft tall Christmas trees. Only SOLARLED lights are used along with unbreakable ornaments. There will be signs at each tree by Athens Sign Co. highlighting its sponsor and decorator.

The deadline to order your Christmas tree is October 31! Pick up your forms at the Tourism Office or online at VisitAthensAL. com (go to “Things to do” tab – click on the ‘North Pole Stroll’ link, look for a ‘click here’ link at the top of text for forms.)

Now - December 10 -Deck our Halls with Jingle Paws picture collection with the Friends of Athens-Limestone Animal Shelter. Bring your 4x6 or small picture and commemorate your pet for $10.00. Pictures will be non-returnable. Your pet's picture will be laminated and featured at the Athens North Pole Stroll and Ardmore Tinsel Trail. Drop off -- Athens

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Tree: Athens-Limestone Animal Shelter; Ardmore Tree: Ardmore Companion Hospital VisitAthensAL.com Oct 19 -- Judge James E. Horton Jr. Monument Dedication on the lawn of the Limestone County Courthouse (520 South Jefferson Street in Athens) at noon honoring the judge's contribution to the Scottsboro Boys Trial.

Light refreshments to follow. VisitAthensAL.com Oct 19 -- Through the Eyes of a Soldier with the Captain Thomas H. Hobbs Sons of Confederate Veterans at the Alabama Veterans Museum and Archives (100 West Pryor Street in Athens) starting at 6:00 P.M. Speaker Bruce Stewart will talk about the common man in the ranks, perspectives/lives before, during and after the Civil War based on his manuscript. FB Event Page Oct 20 & 21, 27 & 28 -Doomsday at Dog Days (Dog Day Flea Market Grounds 30444 Gowan Road in Ardmore, TN) with ticket sales 7:00 -11:00 P.M and attraction opens 7:30 P.M. VisitAthensAL.com Oct 20 -- ARToberfest with High Cotton Arts

(103 West Washington Street in Athens) from 6:00 -9:00 P.M. Enjoy beverages, brats and brushes to the sounds of The Little German Band of Huntsville. Tickets at EVENTBRITE FB Event Page Oct 21 -- Fall Festival at the Shops of Ardmore Avenue in Ardmore, Alabama with Trunk or Treat with merchants, games, coloring contest, fall food and music.

Oct 23-28 -- 11th Annual Athens Storytelling Festival in downtown Athens, AL will make you laugh, cry, and sigh as the storytellers fill the tent with entertainment. www.Ath-

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ensStoryTellingFestival. com Special Monday night FREE music night with members of ‘Iron Horse’ and ‘Just Down the Road’ starting at 6:30 P.M. School Days Oct 24 – 26 with Donald Davis, Bil Lepp, Carmen Deedy and Bobby Norfolk.

Oct 24 - Dan Williams Local Teller Competition Oct 26 is the Tellers Olio, with a sampling of all tellers and winner of competition Oct 27 – 28 All day tellers Friday and Saturday with Donald Davis, The Dill Pickers, Bil Lepp, Geraldine Buckley and

Bill Harley. thensAL.com

VisitA-

Oct 28 -- Pride of Athens Marching Invitational at Athens Stadium (100 U.S. Highway 31N in Athens) from 3:00 -10:00 P.M. This annual Marching Band Contest will feature regional High School Marching Bands and an exhibition of the Golden Eagle Marching Band and the UNA "Pride of Dixie" Marching Band. Open to the public.

ABOUT US: For more information on any of these events, go to V I S I TAT H E N S A L . C O M – (FACEBOOK) ATHENSLIMESTONE TOURISM or call 256-232-5411. (The Tourism Office is located at 100 N. Beaty Street, Athens, AL, in Big Springs Memorial Park @ the Duck Pond) you can also email your events to CAYCE@VISITATHENSAL.COM to be published on our website and/or Facebook pages. Please give at least a 2-week or more notice of your event to publicize on our website.

October 20 - November 2, 2017

PlayAction Sports

Local Fall Sports Almost in the Rearview Mirror

by Tim Lambert

Tune in for the PlayAction Sports Update, three times each weekday on 1080 AM WKAC. Visit us online at www.pasnetwork.net!

email: playactionsports@hotmail.com The local sports scene is close to wrapping up for our local teams. Some still have high hopes for successful seasons while others will have to “go back to the drawing board.” Here’s an overview of the second half of the fall season so far: Ardmore The Tigers have gone 1-4 on the football field with their lone win coming against St. John Paul II; losses came at the hands of East Limestone, Randolph, Lee and Lawrence County. The Ardmore girls and boys placed fifth and seventh at the Trojan Trail Run at Hazel Green.

The girls came in ninth at the Kudzu Hills Invitational and tenth in 4A-7A at the Warriors Invitational.

3A at the Warriors Invitational and fifth at the Dew It on the Trails.

Clements Colts football has also gone 1-4 since last month: losses to Lexington, Lauderdale County, Colbert County and West Morgan and a win against Hanceville. The Lady Colts defeated Tanner, Lauderdale County, Colbert County, ABS and East Lawrence in volleyball action.

East Limestone The football team posted wins over Ardmore, Lawrence County and St. John Paul II. Losses came to Lee and Athens. Volleyball victories came against Rus-

County. The Elkmont boys and girls were second and fourth respectively at the Trojan Trail Run at Hazel Green. At the Twilight Panther Prowl, the varsity girls placed fourth in 1A-4A. The varsity boys came in tenth in 1A-3A at the Kudzu Hills Invitational. At the Warriors Invitational, the varsity boys and girls finished third and sixth in Class 1A-3A. The volleyball team notched wins against Ardmore and Tanner.

James Clemens On the football field, the Jets are struggling, with losses to Gadsden City, Sparkman, Clay-Chalkville and Hunts-

topped Madison Academy, Madison County, Buckhorn and Grissom. Swimmer Christina Tarsitano also committed to Denison University in Ohio.

Lindsay Lane Volleyball wins came over Oakwood Academy, Whitesburg Christian, Decatur Heritage, Woodville and Elkmont. At the Fairview Invitational, the Lindsay Lane boys’ cross country team was sixth in the B team division.

Tanner The football team has had losses to Winston County, Madison Academy, Cleve-

boys finished seventh in 1A3A. West Limestone

The Wildcats are at an even 2-2 on the football field since last month. Two losses came to Rogers and Wilson, followed by a couple of victories over Elkmont and Danville. The varsity girls’ cross-country team came in third at the Scottsboro Invitational in 1A-4A. At the Warriors Invitational, the varsity boys were seventh in 4A-7A with the varsity girls coming in fourth. The varsity girls came in ninth in the Bronze Division at the Jesse Owens Classic and won their 1A-4A division

Athens High School The Golden Eagles have had one football loss to Muscle Shoals followed by wins over Florence, East Limestone, Decatur and Columbia. The volleyball team defeated Mae Jemison. Athens girls were tenth in 5A-7A at the Twilight Panther Prowl cross-country meet. The boys and girls teams both placed fifth in 4A-7A at the Kudzu Hills Invitational.

Athens Bible School The varsity volleyball team got wins over Lindsay Lane, Whitesburg Christian, Decatur Heritage, Woodville, Fairview, Austin, Clements, Lauderdale County, Elkmont, Ardmore, Russellville and East Limestone. The boys’ cross-country team placed ninth at the Scottsboro Invitational in the 1A4A category. The varsity boys finished second in 1A-

ABS, Ardmore, East Limestone, Elkmont teams compete at 8th Annual Pink Out tournament. sellville, Loretto, Wilson, Brooks and Ardmore. The boys’ cross-country team was seventh in boys’ B 5A7A at the Twilight Panther Prowl. At the Warriors Invitational, the varsity boys were fourth in Class 4A-7A. Elkmont The Red Devils team is also at 1-4 since last month: a victory over East Lawrence along with defeats at the hands of Colbert County, West Limestone, Colbert Heights and Lauderdale

October 20 - November 2, 2017

ville and one win against Grissom. The varsity girls’ cross-country team came in third at the Scottsboro Invitational in Class 5A-7A while the boys finished seventh. At the Twilight Panther Prowl, the girls posted a fifth place in the Championship Division and the boys were sixth in boys’ B 5A-7A. The varsity girls finished sixth in the Silver Division race at the Jesse Owens Classic. On the volleyball court, the Lady Jets

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land and Tarrant. The Lady Rattlers have posted volleyball wins over St. Bernard, Falkville, East Lawrence and West Limestone. At the Warriors Invitational crosscountry meet, the varsity

Photo credit: Rick Holmes

at the Dew It on the Trails meet the following week at Point Mallard; the boys finished eighth. Wins on the volleyball court have come against Elkmont, Decatur, Lee and East Lawrence.

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Clean and Green

Boo-Tiful Fall Holidays

With A Hocus-Focus On Earth-Friendly

by Lynne Hart Executive Coordinator - Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful Fall is one of my favorite times of the year.

The night air is cool, the leaves dance in the wind as they fall from the trees, and the kitchen fills with the wonderful smells of chili on the stove, apple pies in the oven, and at my house pots of chicken soup simmering.

the cages located at the Athens Utilities building, the KALB office, or the Recycling Center.

Fill the container, return to the bottom shelf of any cage, and take another empty.

Most importantly, enjoy the holidays with your children. The best way to keep your children safe is to be with them as they enjoy fall festivals and trick-or-treating.

It is also the time when we prepare for fall festivals and celebrations. I really do wish the Christmas decorations would stay in the stock rooms at least until after Halloween.

Here are some tips to add some creativity to your earth-friendly celebrations: •Choose high-quality decorations that will hold up to many years of use rather than disposable decorations. Better yet, use fall’s bounty. Decorate with fall leaves, pumpkins, and gourds.

•Choose to decorate an uncarved pumpkin.

It will hold up much longer and, after washing it thoroughly, you can use it to make baked pumpkin seeds and pumpkin pie. Check out the recipe for Pumpkin Seed Brittle compliments of Martha

Have fun and create memories that will last longer than the candy in their bags.

Stewart!

•Use your uncarved pumpkin to celebrate two holidays by using removable decorations! Decorate your pumpkin as a ghost with a piece of a white sheet and draw a face with black marker, then switch to a Thanksgiving theme. Let the kids use their imagination.

•Create costumes with items you already have.

Purchasing costumes can be very expensive and they rarely hold up for reuse.

•Let your children walk from door to door, and

consider walking with them if you can. Driving behind your children wastes gas. Walking is the best exercise and you will be right with your children to enjoy their fun!

•Hand out healthy, but fun treats, or forget the candy altogether. Kids love funcolored pencils, boxes of crayons, and other useful times that can be found at your local stores.

•Use Halloween as a teaching moment by instructing your children to keep their candy wrappers off the ground. Take an extra bag with you to hold trash until you return home.

•Provide reusable plates and utensils at your holiday parties. Disposable plates cannot be recycled and end up in the landfill.

•Remember to recycle your cooking fats, oils and grease. Pick up a free collection container from

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Pumpkin Seed Brittle

Preheat oven to 350⁰F. Butter an 11 x 17 inch rimmed baking sheet and set aside.

Melt ½ stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in ½ cup packed light-brown sugar and ¼ cup of honey. Bring to a boil. Cook without stirring until mixture is medium amber and a candy thermometer registers 280⁰F – about 6 minutes.

Stir in pumpkin seeds. Cook until mixture reaches 300⁰F, about 2 minutes.

Pour onto prepared baking sheet. Let it cool completely and break into pieces. ENJOY!

Become a Fan

(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com October 20 - November 2, 2017

Cooking with Anna

Pimento Cheese, a Southern Classic

by Anna Hamilton

Fall in the South brings with it school festivals, bonfires, hayrides, and of course football. Football to most Southerners, especially this Alabama girl, is not just a fun afternoon activity, it is a lifelong love affair. From a young age, you’re taught to yell “Roll Tide” or “War Eagle” or maybe even “Go Vols.” No matter what team you cheer for, one thing we all can agree on is every football tailgating party needs good food. Chips and dip, pizza, hamburgers, chicken wings—these are all your usual suspects on the buffet. Why not this year change things up and make a Southern classic, Pimento Cheese.

Pimento Cheese

October 20 - November 2, 2017

can be used as a spread for sandwiches, a topper for burgers, or as a dip. Now this recipe is not your typical Pimento Cheese, this one is packed with protein and offers a healthy alternative to the neon-orange tub of mystery cheese found in the super market. All the heavy mayo is swapped out with lite mayo and non-fat Greek yogurt. For an extra boost of protein, I’ve added a scoop of unflavored protein powder. Make this delicious pimento cheese the day before the big game and it will be creamy and delicious by kick-off. I hope you enjoy this healthy take on this Southern classic and Roll Tide!

Pimento Cheese What You Need:

2 - 8 oz blocks of sharp cheddar cheese, grated 3 tbsp light mayonnaise 3 tbsp non-fat greek yogurt 1 - 6 oz jar of diced pimentos, undrained ½ cup of unflavored protein powder 1 small onion, grated aalt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Blend the mayonnaise, yogurt, grated onion, salt and pepper, and protein powder in a medium bowl. Fold in the grated cheese. Cover and chill overnight for best results.

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Page 13

The Millennial Mind

Instruments Of Darkness

by Rosemary Dewar Acts of evil are much easier to define than it is to define those who commit them. Our culture has a serious problem with sustaining standards of morality, and the lack of thoughtful consistency and honesty leaves people logically and emotionally vulnerable. It should not be difficult for anyone to conclude that violation of choice correlated with violation of life is socially harmful. Humanity is not short on examples of frailty, and identifying that frailty is dependent on one’s ability to define it.

Mankind is inherently capable of doing great good as well as great wickedness. Anyone who has had or has babysat a toddler can affirm that they can be willful and selfish dictators. Without healthy discipline and stability, any child is at a higher risk of

noted below:

cultivating irregular levels of vanity and validation in their character. Should these behaviors go unchecked, having someone develop into a sophisticatedly manipulative adult is a plausible outcome.

Our culture has acknowledged a new level of awareness in two particular stories: the Las Vegas shooter, Stephen Paddock and sexual predator, Harvey Weinstein. Both men perpetrated the most degrading and heartless acts, each violent in their own way. Weinstein used his influence to limit choice and violate the self-worth of his victims. Paddock fed a still-undefined delusion so fervently that he committed the largest mass shooting in United States history.

These men are equally guilty of their crime, yet society does not want to

But 'tis strange: And oftentimes, to win us to our harm, The instruments of darkness tell us truths, Win us with honest trifles, to betray's In deepest consequence.

Ambition without mercy is the death of the human soul.

In Macbeth, William Shakespeare masterfully discusses the good and evil which resides in humanity. hold them solely responsible. For Paddock, the left looks to blame America’s Constitutional right to bear arms in order to defend ourselves against those like him. Condemning an inanimate object will not

resolve the character issue. As for Weinstein, the left aims to denounce masculinity for his abhorrent behavior. However, conflating sexual abuse and aggression with masculinity is culturally detrimental and, in fact, inaccurate.

Simply because men disproportionally commit more crime than women, does not mean that society has the privilege of convicting all men carte blanche of being subhuman. Absolving women who have committed heinous acts also does not cultivate a stable society.

Humanity is broken, but society must do a better job at promoting and honoring men and women who excel at their morality.

Our current culture has yet to define what darkness is.

It ought to do so before dancing with it.

In Act I, Scene III of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Banquo warns exactly as

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The Judeo-Christian worldview asserts that mankind is feeble and that there are those who choose darkness knowing full well that they betray the light afforded them.

They forfeit their humanity. That is not a masculine trait or a feminine trait, but a godless one.

Greek philosopher Socrates stated, “Worthless people live to eat and drink, people of worth eat and drink to live.”

Those who feed on the vulnerability of others are never satisfied, and they do not consider what comes forth from them as they devour every person they encounter. In contrast, those who consider how they affect others are far more conscious of what they are willing to consume.

Should culture continue to worship self-gratification, it will find itself consumed by the very darkness it cultivated.

The light is one choice away, accessible by simply refusing to indulge in another’s discomfort.

Justice Louis D. Brandeis said it best when he stated, “Sunlight is the best disinfectant.”

October 20 - November 2, 2017

Cover Story

Shepherd Living At The Range: Where The Answer Is Yes

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

ficult experience would set in motion what would eventually become his calling: to develop the type of senior care and carefully designed community system that is the premise of what will be North Alabama’s brandnew Shepherd Living at the Range on County Line Road.

Shepherd Living at the Range, which from here on out I will refer to as The Range, came out of Joe’s 30+ years of experience in the hospitality industry, as well as the health care industry.

He was a resident manager for several Hyatt Hotels, and he also worked for Quorum Health Resources. The blend of both backgrounds caused Joe to see a huge need for senior care that was designed to be empowering to the residents as well as their families. Eventually Joe was in charge of over 40 such communities in Texas, pioneering a change in senior care philosophy that he wished his grandma could have experienced when she was battling dementia.

Two years ago, Joe, Christine Menedis, and Naveen Trehan developed the “Shepherd Living Concept,” and their soon-to-be-completed local community is in a beautiful setting at 10801 and 10803 County Line Road in Madison. It will be opening in January, and if the number of serious inquiries and tours that occurred while I was at their construction trailer is any indication of their success elsewhere, I expect it will fill up soon.

When Shepherd began to see their dream materialize, there was one non-negotiable thing that served as their “why”-- the residents

had to be empowered to live vibrant, autonomous lives in the midst of a carefully designed community. That same commitment held fast for those who were also in the Memory Care portion of this wonderful “small town for seniors.” Joe says it this way when it comes to meeting the needs and desires of the residents, “The answer is when you decide you are hungry, and an endless list of possible activities. The “Shepherd Approach” asks this question: “How do we do it? Simple. We offer it all and allow you to craft your perfect day.”

I told Joe about my parents’ mostly positive experience in a similar type yes.” What he means is that his staff is trained to function almost like a concierge in a hotel. They will find a way to make “it” happen, as long as it is not immoral, illegal or dangerous!

So, what is the walk-out of that kind of commitment to your residents? Amenities

that are no more than 20 steps away; high-staffing ratios to ensure extraordinary resident care; an attractive single-story community that boasts smart phone capabilities to lock doors, receive messages, and

October 20 - November 2, 2017

turn on lights; a restaurant that is open to the public; a spa and wellness center that friends can join; diverse wellness classes; state-of-the-art physical therapy; and more.

There are medical professionals, a trained chef, meals are

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of senior community in the Pacific Northwest, and asked him about The Range’s policy with regard to visiting adult kids or grandkids. At my parents’ residence, no one could come and visit for more than 30 days, so there was no chance for a memorable “summer at Grandma and Grandpa’s.” At The Range, those kinds of restrictions don’t exist. If an adult child suddenly becomes a single parent and needs a place to land while they get back on their feet, that is something that can be accommodated with the staff

ready to assist. Dogs are welcome; in fact, the name Shepherd comes from the understanding that canine therapy is powerful for seniors and their families.

We finished our time with Joe telling me an utterly heartwarming story of Shepherd’s strong serving presence in Port Orange, Florida, prior to, during and after Hurricane Irma. They cared for over 250 individuals which included their residents and staff, family members of both the residents and staff and many members of the community who were displaced, and kept them for days. A doctor called prior to Irma making landfall and transferred a patient who needed special care because the Shepherd community was designed to withstand Cat-4 level winds. They were a skillfully prepared selfcontained community that reached out like neighbors to those in need, and they did it well because of the caliber of their staff, as well as the resulting commitment to their residents. If this is the kind of place you are looking for, either for yourself or your loved ones, then call 877-GO-MADISON (4662347) today to make an appointment for a tour. Remember, Shepherd is more than a home. It’s a way of life.

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Health and Fitness

Fitness Classes “Outside” The Gym

by Janet Hunt

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

Below is a list of fitness classes offered in the Athens area, outside of a gym, that are targeted to older adults. These classes are open to all.

No sign up is needed and classes are ongoing. All equipment is provided. Donations are accepted. Below is a schedule: Youth Center at the First United Methodist Church 203 N. Jefferson St. (next to LCCI) Strength and Balance – this class uses hand weights, elastic tubing, and a small ball. Exercises are both standing and seated. Classes meet on Monday,

Wednesday and Friday at 8:30 – 9:15 a.m.

Gym at Round Island Baptist Church 14790 Rd.

Brownsferry

Strength and Cardio – this classes uses hand weights, elastic tubing, and a small ball. Because we have the entire gym, we walk laps indoors. Most of the exercises are standing with some seated work.

Classes meet on Tuesday and Thursday at 10 – 11 a.m.

East Limestone Senior Center 25820 Nick Davis Rd Strength and Balance – this class uses hand

weights, elastic tubing, and a small ball. Exercises are both standing and seated. Classes meet on Monday and Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

East Limestone Senior Center 25820 Nick Davis Rd Stability – this class includes standing and walking exercises that will be beneficial in decreasing the risk of falling.

Chairs are encouraged for warm-up and cool-down only.

Class meets on Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

Above listed classes are offered by Janet Hunt, an ACE Certified Group Fitness Instructor, ACE Certified Personal Trainer, and ACE Certified Health Coach.

For additional information please call 256614-3530 or email at jhunt9155@gmail.com.

For those that are looking for more personal instruction (one-on-one or with a partner), Janet offers personal training to fit your special needs whether is it strengthening your core, increasing your flexibility, working on increasing strength, or losing weight. If you have a small group interested in starting fitness classes at your location, Janet is available or can refer you to instructors to fit your group’s needs.

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October 20 - November 2, 2017

Cover Story

The Athens City Schools Foundation: Leaving A Legacy Brick By Brick

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

Students are welcome to purchase the Legacy Bricks as well, in the event that they want to say thanks to a special teacher, coach, or staff member. The possibilities are nearly endless, so don’t miss this opportunity to build a memory and a legacy, literally.

nity long after we are gone.

How? By purchasing what they are calling a Legacy Brick.

By way of background, the late Jackie Greenhaw, himself a former coach and teacher, started the Foundation in the 1970s as a way to provide supplies and opportunities for students that teachers had paid for out of their own pocket and the goodness of their hearts.

My husband and I know one such teacher in another state who has nothing like a Foundation to support her.

Our friend, who teaches 4th grade in the mountains of the Carolinas sometimes stays at her school ‘til 11 p.m., even with her devoted husband’s help; they routinely sacrifice for kids who are not their own because they understand the necessity of investing in education and their community. I wish our friends had people such as Dr. Chris Hamilton, who heads up the brick project, or Dr. Trey Holladay, Athens City Schools Superintendent in their corner!

This year the Foundation has already given 20 thousand dollars in order to grant every third grader in the Athens City Schools the opportunity to learn to play the violin. They are taught by members of the Huntsville Symphony, and the students also get the chance to go see performances as part of this program. The powerful and positive role of music in education is inarguable, and this is an example of what a community can do to get behind the

development of their future leaders.

the front,” she added with a smile.

Dr. Chris Hamilton taught Business Marketing at Calhoun and was a college administrator for many years.

She then became part of the launch of the Athens Schools’ Power Up Program.

She saw the need for students to become and remain current with technological trends if they were going to be competitive, which was Power Up’s focus, school by school and student by student. There came a time when Chris felt that she needed to do something different while continuing to be involved in the field of education, and the Foundation was the perfect fit.

If you purchase a 4”x8” brick, you will be able to have three lines with up to 18 characters per line to fill.

This means that spaces between words count as characters, and your wording will be in capital letters centered in the middle of the brick. An 8”x8” brick costs $100, has up to six lines with up to 18 characters per line. A 12”x12” brick costs $225. It may contain up to 10 lines of copy with a maximum of 23 characters per line.

Dr. Hamilton told me, “The idea of offering the legacy bricks came about soon after we knew there was going to be a new high school, and we wanted to make them affordable for everyone.

Some ‘paver projects’ start at $250.00, and ours start at $50.00.” She went on to say that there is going to be room for a full 5,000 bricks at the back gymnasium/auditorium/event entrance dedicated to the legacy bricks. “If we get more than the 5,000, we’ll go around the sides to

October 20 - November 2, 2017

ture in a perfectly preserved moment as a permanent part of Golden Eagle History.

Proceeds will go to the Athens City Schools Foundation to support our teachers and students. Together we make a difference.”

All orders for Legacy Bricks must be placed by January 1, 2018. You can order online at www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/ahslegacybrickproject. For more information, please call Chris Hamilton at 256-2336600. You may also stop by the Athens City Schools central office entry foyer at 455 Hwy 31 North to pick up an order form.

The Foundation Legacy Brick informational material also noted, “Engraved on your brick can be a family name, current student, alumni, teacher, staff member, business or organization. You can choose to honor someone special or place a brick in memory of a loved one. Bricks can be donated to memorialize a special achievement, a memorable event or a graduating class. Engraved bricks make wonderful gifts. Every brick has a story. Write yours.

History is in the making.

Your brick will be a place where the past meets the fu-

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Page 17

Learning As A Lifestyle

Fall Flurry

by Wanda Campbell Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 Christmas. Carolers will be singing many of your favorite Christmas carols as they stroll through downtown. Santa will arrive in style at the Center for Lifelong Learning Center and will take toy requests.

During the Christmas Open House, we will host Merry Market in the Mezzanine of our building. Merry Market gives home-based

Every fall, the Center for Lifelong Learning engages in a flurry of activity.

From the end of September to near the end of November we are busy with community events, class activities, and planning future classes, events, and activities.

Community Activities Starting the last weekend in September this year, we hosted the Grease Festival.

The next weekend was the Ol’ Time Fiddlers Convention. Starting on October 26, the Athens Storytelling Festival comes to town.

And just three weeks after Storytelling, we are geared up for Christmas Open House. If you have not had the opportunity to participate in the community activities, I invite you to come on down. Although the Grease Festival and Fiddlers Convention have already passed, you still have time to attend the Athens Storytelling Festival and Christmas Open House.

Lepp, Bill Harley, Geraldine Buckley, and The Dill Pickers are the featured artists. Get “the Whole Schebang” to come and go as you please throughout the entire festival, including Tuesday’s 5th Annual Dan Williams Local Tellers Competition. Or you can pick and choose what days

of speakers is just fabulous. We are trying something new and offering three Dessert and Discussion Series. The first is a series on Caring For Older Adults. The four-week series will focus on Dementia, Social Security, and more. The second series will focus on Foreign Affairs. The topics for that discussion include Trade, Jobs, and Treaties, Crisis

you’d like to come. Tickets are available online.

The Christmas Open House event is sponsored by the Greater Limestone Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Athens. With activities scattered around the Courthouse, everyone enjoys the sounds and smells of

businesses an opportunity to sell on the Courthouse Square. Call Jennifer Williamson at 256-232-2600 for more information about fees and spaces.

The Athens Storytelling Festival is jam-packed with great stories, nationally recognized storytellers, and lots of opportunity to mingle and buy author recordings and books. Donald Davis, Bill

Upcoming Classes It is not too early to mark your calendar for the 3rd Annual Women’s Leadership Conference, April 11.

The 2018 theme is Women Who Serve and the line-up

in the South China Sea and more. Our third series will focus on Our Town.

Topics include Streets and People and so much more. We hope you will come out and discussion our topics while enjoying a dessert.

Like the iceberg that floats in the sea, what I have mentioned is just the beginning. There is so much more in the planning stages. We have trips, professional development courses, leisure fun, and so much more coming up.

Wait for more here, on our website – www.athens. edu/cll or stop by to see us at 121 South Marion Street. We would love to talk with you.

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October 20 - November 2, 2017

The View From The Bridge

Speeding- I Just Got Busted!

by Jackie Warner Jackie Warner

Career Development Facilitator “Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters

The other day, I was in the gym rushing (of course) to get finished so I could be on to the next task on my list before heading home. You know the drill. First I started with the treadmill and then was on to the leg machine. I thought to myself “I am on a roll and will soon be finished and out of here!” Well, as I was getting ready for my next piece of equipment this lady came up to me to say hello. She then made it a point that I keep working out and not stop while she was speaking to me.

She said as seriously as she could “I know you because I have been you and been where you are.“ As I listened to her, she told me to slow down and really take time for myself and my workout without harboring those mental interruptions of all the activities and tasks I needed to complete. She told me to stop running so much around in my mind because all I was doing was making myself less available mentally for when I truly needed to be.

She then proceeded to correct me on the way I was doing my exercises.

She again told me to slow down and really allow the work out to enhance me and not harm me. She said “me time” should really be used for “me.”

All I could do was listen

real for a change.

2. Learn to say no. Not every task has to be completed by you.

3. Take 2 minutes first thing in the morning to stretch and breathe.

4. Put your headphones on and listen to your favorite music.

5. Pray!

Lesson Learned: You never know who is watching and waiting to impart much needed wisdom in your life so LISTEN. Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional to her because everything she was telling me was so true and I needed the wisdom she was sharing.

This never-ending checklist we call life does make it almost impossible to relax wouldn’t you say?

Let’s take it a step further and really be truthful-most of the items on our list were put there by us with every intent to complete them all! What are we thinking? Well of course we are thinking of others as we so often do. In this life we find ourselves always doing for others, making sure they have what is needed, planning our lives around theirs, whether that be our spouses, parents, children, co-workers, relatives, or friends. Then we hope that maybe, just maybe in all that we do for others we find a few minutes left to steal away

October 20 - November 2, 2017

Jackie Warner, Community Outreach Specialist

in all the madness.

down because stress kills!

Hey! Wake up! Who are we kidding? It is great to have the drive and will to give and care so much for others, but if you don’t care for yourself then you will not be here to do any of the items on your checklist of life.

I’ll leave you with a few tips for “Me Time Success”:

Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com

1. Self-time is not being selfish—it’s necessary.

Say yes to “you time” for

Check out upcoming events: http://thebridgeus.yolasite.com/

Before I left the gym that day, believe me, I felt rejuvenated and refreshed after my encounter with the lady I had been talking to. I did slow down and lived in the moment for me, if only for a little while. I finished my workout without all those mental interruptions that I so often take with me.

When we fail to give to ourselves, we fail to be successful in our giving to others.

I encourage you to also take the advice of the lady I met in the gym: slow

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Page 19

Horse Whispering

Scalpel, Please

by Deb Kitchenmaster I chuckled as I read about a Harvard-trained brain surgeon and his relationship with horses. What a paradigm!

Whereas, a brain surgeon operates on the brain, a connecting relationship with a horse has the potential of rewiring the brain.

How is that? When a master predator and an ultimate prey animal “scalpels” by cutting through judgments, traumas, and toxic mind-sets to the center of understanding the flow of vital energy, intention, and focus, the gate of an inside arena opens and welcomes you! Should you choose to step through the open gate, you simply say “YES” to a continuous lesson of awakening sensitivity and leadership.

Let me give you an example.

When I approached one of our mares the other day, I literally ‘sank’ on the inside. I connected with low energy, sadness, and a sensation of being overwhelmed. Sensitivity led me to pause and observe. I noticed the other mare in her paddock was dominant in a subtle way.

These two have shared a paddock area for weeks. However, this day, the white blazed Morgan mare needed a break!

We spent the next hour to-

gether and what a connection we had. I continue to reflect upon that moment, and it was beautiful. This horse needed a “Debbie connection” and I equally needed one with her!

I want to point out here, I had the time to give to her that day.

If my schedule was penciled in with timelines and deadlines, I would have chosen another solution, such as put her with another horse or give her area to herself. The difference between being merely attached to your horse and being connected to your horse is your state of mind.

Here’s ercise energy focus.

a fun eye-opener exin understanding the of your presence and Go out with a halter

and lead rope to a pasture with horses. Find a spot like a nice tree where you can safely sit down and relax. Curiosity will be the look on the horses’ faces as you sit down. This is “unusual” behavior in their minds.

Most horses have never experienced a human coming into their pasture without wanting something from them. When the horses have returned to grazing, randomly pick out one horse from the herd. Get up and start walking toward him. Picture you catching, connecting, and haltering that one particular horse. Once you have made a decision on which horse it is, don’t change your mind. Stay focused on your horse. Keep walking

straight toward him. Observe what happens! The horses you are not focused on will let you walk around them as they are grazing. However, the one you intend to halter may start to pick up his head and possibly move off. What did the selected horse sense that the others did not? This horse is aware of the intensity of energy toward him. Simply making a selection in your mind creates a change in your energy that is easily perceived by the horse, even across an entire pasture.

What about miles?

When we moved to the South we lived in town and leased pasture several miles east of

Huntsville. I had met a man from Canada who heard about my connection with horses, and he scheduled a session.

When I drove out to the barn for that session, one of the six horses was standing at the gate waiting for me! She KNEW she was the ONE for this person. What got my attention big time was this particular mare loved pasture time. Here she was waiting!

Harvey remembers this round pen session like it was yesterday. Abba Father and mare Annie tattooed Harvey’s heart with a NOW moment in permanent ink.

Whether you are reading this article because you are a horse lover, a horse owner or simply reading because you are holding Athens Now in your hands, I want to encourage y’all to go ahead and get the scalpel out. Be willing to cut between cognitive mindsets and the possibility of an intuitive lifestyle. We find comfort in holding a compass in our hands as we journey on.

We want a map to reassure us where we are on our journey.

Horses simply have faith.

Whether walking in darkness, fog, storms, or carrying a confused human asking, “Where are we?” - to find the trail that leads us safely home. Horses have a way, as we connect with them, to return us home to our author and finisher of our faith, Jesus Himself.

Your NEIGHbor, Deb Kitchenmaster Corral Connections www.corralconnections.com 256-426-7947 Animal B.E.S.T. practitioner dkitchenmaster@mchsi.com

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October 20 - November 2, 2017

Mental Health Minute

Characteristics Of The HSP (Highly Sensitive Person)

by Lisa Philippart, Licensed Professional Counselor “It seems my heart is made of tissue paper; I wish the world would handle it more delicately.”

Richelle E. Goodrich The purpose of my previous article was to introduce you to the trait of high sensitivity. If you completed the selftest at http://hsperson. com/test/highly-sensitive-test/ and decided you were not highly sensitive, the chances are that you know someone who is. This article is part two of three parts designed to present you with specific characteristics to hopefully give you a clearer picture of yourself or the HSP in your life. We will look at the mental, physical, sensory, spiritual, and psychological/behavioral characteristics in an abbreviated form.

Mental: •Better at spotting errors and avoiding making errors •Highly conscientious •Able to concentrate deeply (better without distractions) •Often thinking about our own thinking •Deeply affected by other people’s moods and emotions Physical: •Specialists in fine motor movements

•Good at holding still •“Morning people” •More right-brained •More easily affected by stimulants •Nervous systems are designed to react to subtle experiences Sensory: to)

(sensitivity

•Touch---fabrics, ter, temperatures

wa-

•Sound---loud noises, music, white noise •Sight/Light---visual beauty, fluorescents, bright lights •Taste---warm foods, textures, alcohol, caffeine •Smell---chemical sensitivity, aromatherapy

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Spiritual:

criticism

•Meditative, prayerful, soulful •Intuitive •Search for meaning, purpose, and wholeness •Vivid dreams and active imaginations •Visions, divine intervention, miracles Psychological/Behavioral:

•Require meaningful work and personal relationships So, what do you think?

Do you see yourself or someone you know with most or all of these characteristics? The next step is for HSPs to figure out how to function in a non-HSP world.

I’ll share some tips and ideas in my next article.

Until then…..Take time to appreciate the HSP! Lisa 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.

•Empathic •Affected deeply by environmental stimuli •Big picture/serious thinkers •Conscientious, methodical, perfectionist •Boundary difficulties •Avoid

conflict

and

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Medical Update

Why Do I Need a Medical Power of Attorney?

by Rachel Clark, RN, BSN As a young woman in my 20’s, I’ve asked myself this question many times. I am a young, vibrant, and healthy individual that doesn’t participate in risky behaviors. So why would I need a medical power of attorney? The answer is simple: should anything happen to me and I not be able to express myself, any and all decisions about my health and life could legally be made by two medical doctors. These would be people who likely do not know me, my values, or necessarily have my best interest at heart. Two medical doctors could decide to do anything they wanted to me without my consent, including but not limited to, invoking a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order and withholding food and/or water should they think that my “quality of life” would be compromised by prolonging my life.

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What exactly is a Medical Power of Attorney?

It is a document that allows an individual to name delegates to make healthcare decisions on that individual’s behalf should they become unable to make them for themselves. These delegates named by the signer are then able to make any and all healthcare decisions for the signer, such as giving consent for surgical or other procedures. Before signing such a document, it is critical that you are familiar with your state’s laws in regard to requirements for a medical power of attorney.

It is also important to be aware of the fact that there are multiple options out there for this document. As I’ve been researching, I’ve found that the best option for me is something called the “Will to Live.” The “Will to Live” is a legally binding document

an official legal document. Each copy should be notarized before being given to those named as “agents.”

that is also a pro-life alternative to traditional living wills. It lays out the signer’s wishes in clear, explicit terms so that should the signer become “incompetent” to make decisions, their “healthcare agent” has the authority to carry out those wishes. Be sure to discuss your standard of care choices with your “agent(s)” to ensure that your choices are carried out. That way, when and if the time comes for the document to be used, there is no question as to

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what you would want.

There are specific documents for the state of residency of the signer.

In order to obtain the correct “Will to Live” for you, visit https:// www.nrlc.org/medethics/willtolive/states/.

After downloading the document specific for your state, sign it and make copies for yourself and those named as your “agent” and “alternate agents.” Most states require that a “Will to Live” be notarized by a public notary, making it

There are trying times coming up in the American healthcare system.

It will become more and more common for doctors to participate in activities that are against the oaths they took when becoming physicians. It is your responsibility to protect yourself from being acted upon in ways that are against your conscience. In my career as a R.N., I see too many people who have not named anyone to make these hard choices for them should they become unable to do so themselves. It is my sincere hope that you will download and sign your copy today to ensure that your wishes are made clear and carried out, should the need ever arise.

October 20 - November 2, 2017

Foreman’s Forum

Fight Or Flight

by Paul Foreman what is your emergency, fire or police?” When stressed, most people will talk way too fast and too loud. Talk in short concise sentences, such as, “There is a shooting at University Plaza.” Take a breath. “I saw three of them at the

or file cabinets. If possible, keep an escape route open. Use bathrooms as a last resort; you could get trapped.

Lock the doors. Wrapping a belt or pants leg around the door closer might slow down someone trying to force their

dles or a heavy bucket.

You might find cleaning chemicals to throw into the bad guy’s face.

In office areas, use fire extinguishers, chairs, lamps, broken glass from a picture frame, or mirror, heavy vase, broken furniture, scissors or

way in. Sometimes janitors will leave a wooden or rubber door stopper; jamb it under your side of the door. Many restrooms will have a janitor’s closet. Look for objects to barricade the door.

glass ashtray. Spray the bad guy with the fire extinguisher, and then hit him in the face with it.

Use hot coffee, full soda cans, hair spray, bug spray, anything heavy; hit him and hit him hard.

Don’t stop hitting him until he is unconscious.

Your life depends on it.

2. Once you are safe, stop others from unknowingly walking into a deadly situation.

main entrance.” Take a breath. “All are wearing black, with long guns.”

Take a deep breath and wait patiently for the operator to ask questions. Waiting five or ten seconds, while she is typing, will feel like forever. If the 911 operator tells you to stay on the phone, cooperate with her if safe to do so. Yes, give your name. The last thing responding officers want to hear is, “The caller refused his name and hung up.”

3. Call 911 as soon as possible. While you are waiting for 911 to answer, take a deep breath and try to calm yourself.

Most 911 operators will answer by saying, “911,

4. If you cannot escape, try to hide out of the shooter’s view. Barricade the doors with anything heavy you can find. Get behind heavy furniture, such as desks

In view of the recent events in Las Vegas, Paul felt it was important to reprise this article which was printed last Spring.

Please continue to pray for him as he battles cancer.

After reading advice from numerous sources.

I have come up with my own more realistic steps to take. I know the last thing this old sheepdog is going to do is curl up in a corner and wait to die.

1. Escape if you can.

Go! Get out of there, even if others are frozen in place. Leave all your belongings BEHIND! I saw a video of a shooter in a school board meeting in Northwest Florida. When the shooter came in waving his gun around and announced his intentions to open fire, people in the audience spent time gathering up their coats and purses before getting out! Help others escape if they will cooperate.

Warning: some people will freeze in fear. There is not a whole lot you can do unless you start dragging or carrying them. That’s a negative, UNLESS they are family.

October 20 - November 2, 2017

5. If none of the above will work due to time or situation, FIGHT! Attempt to disable the shooter. Get mad and defend yourself! What do you have to lose?

6. In a restroom, use toilet tank lids or toilet seats, metal trash cans or mirrors as improvised weapons. You might find good weapons stored in the janitor’s closet, such as mop han-

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7. If you have a gun, use it! If you don’t know how, get trained! Just in the last few days I have heard, on national news broadcasts, numerous sheriffs and police chiefs advising citizens to arm themselves. GET TRAINED, by me or some qualified trainer.

Get trained beyond just knowing how to shoot a gun. Get trained on

knowing when to shoot and when NOT to shoot.

8. If you are evacuating from a crowded theater, church or mall, get away from the center of the hallway. Get next to the wall. You do NOT want to get caught up in the rushing mob of terrified people who might care less if you get trampled. Next to a wall, you will be able to use the wall for support if you get shoved or knocked down. Walls have windows and doors. You might find an escape route. Malls have numerous stores, often with “back doors” that you can escape through.

You do NOT want to get caught up in a mob of dozens or even hundreds of people all trying to escape out the same door. Grab hold of small children and carry them if possible. If children are too big to carry, grab the child’s belt rather than trying to hold onto their arm. The same with adults. Grab each of your family members by the belt and hold on for dear life.

Paul Foreman 256-431-6702 NRA Recruiter. Click here to join or renew: NRA protects your 2nd Amendment Rights! https://membership. nrahq.org/forms/signup. asp?campaignid=XI029922 Check out my Web page www.PaulForeman.com and Facebook! @ https:// www.facebook.com/ Paul-Foreman-NRACertified-Instructor822151851204560/

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