September 15, 2017

September 15th - October 5th, 2017

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

See Our Listings Inside this edition...

Pages 25 - 32

Tina's Tales The Flip Side of Addiction: The Family...

September is Gynecological Cancer Awareness month. In memory of my mother, Mildred Ann DavisGrisham and in honor of all those who suffer alongside addicts, I...

Page 5

Special Feature

The 51st Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention Oct 5-7

By Ali Elizabeth Turner We can now say that it has been more than a half-century since some old-timey musicians convened in a private home in West Limestone for the very first regional gathContinued on page 15

Limestone Health Facility Spotlight On Carlos Shannon

City of Athens releases mobile app to enhance web experience...

The City of Athens is enhancing citizens’ web experience by offering a mobile app that provides...

Page 7

What Makes Ronnie Roll

By Ali Elizabeth Turner

Taking A Moment, Taking A Breath...

Mayor Ronnie came into the office with a lot of concerns squarely on his shoulders. “Six million people out of power in Florida,” he said, as he...

Page 8

September 15 - October 5, 2017

Carlos Shannon was born at home in a two-room log cabin near Holland’s Gin in Elkmont on October 30, 1943. The “midwife” was Dr. Clifford Vernon Mayhall, whose practice was at the time located in the charming, renovated teal-colored building with the

Continued on pages 17

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September 15 - October 5, 2017

Publisher’s Point

Ya Wanna Help Make A Movie?

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 Wanda Campbell Paul Foreman Sandra Thompson Lisa Philippart Lynne Hart Anna Hamilton Tina Cook Tim Lambert Jackie Warner Deb Kitchenmaster Tracy A. Lowery, MD

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

Four years ago, at the National Religious Broadcasters’ Convention in Nashville, I had the great privilege of interviewing Joseph Farah, who, with his wife Elizabeth, founded World Net Daily in 1997. WND is one of the largest Internet-based news and commentary sources on the planet, and has gone on to become a force to be reckoned with as the culture wars in our nation heat up.

Three years ago, I went to Israel on a tour that was headed up by Joseph and Elizabeth, who also happened to be on our particular bus. It was there that I got to know the man and his family as can only happen while travelling under unusual circumstances; and on several occasions, I felt I was given a glimpse of his heart. Like me, once upon a time he had been a radical socialist, and like me, he had become a Christian. Unlike me, he was an Arab by blood. As followers of Messiah, he and I had come to love the people and land of Israel.

Over a hotel supper table in the land of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, our conversations about the grace of God and overcoming our wacky pasts are treasured memories I consider to be one of the highlights of my life-changing trip.

Joseph and his crew have produced best-selling books and movies, and one film was nominated for an Academy Award.

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

September 15 - October 5, 2017

And now, they are bringing to the screen the story of a young half-Jewish girl who survived the Holocaust, and for reasons that defy logical explanation, she experienced Messiah’s love in the middle of it all.

The woman’s name is Anita Dittman, and she is a spry 90 years old. The name of the film that tells

determined to reunite with her Jewish mother held at a death camp 200 miles away in Theresienstadt, Czechoslovakia.

By the time I came to know Anita in 2014, she had just turned 87. I was interviewing her for a documentary about her life, based on the book Trapped in Hitler's Hell: A Young Jewish

Dittman, left, pictured with her older sister, Hella, around 1939

the story of her life is entitled, Trapped In Hitler’s Hell; and if you want to, you can help it get made and distributed to theatres.

More on that in a minute.

Girl Discovers the Messiah's Faithfulness in the Midst of the Holocaust, which she had co-written with Jan Markell nearly 20 years earlier.

WND film producer George Escobar, whom I also met while in Israel, had this to say about Anita:

I didn't expect to become a close friend of Anita's following that meeting. Or fall in love with her story.

“Anita Dittman is the only person I've ever met who survived the Holocaust.

She was barely 18 when she escaped her second Nazi prison camp in 1945.

Abandoned as a child by her Aryan father eight years earlier, Anita was

By the conclusion of World War II, Anita had nearly exhausted her reserve of courage and compassion.

In our journey with Anita, she will have successfully drawn us personally through an age of darkness. Nonetheless, her resilience and liberating faith will shine like a beam

of light through which we can find God's glory, forgiveness and love.”

Now this leads to my question: Do ya wanna help make a movie? Through the wonders of technology it is now possible for average people to help be a part of redemptive media, and WND has set up a GoFundMe account in case you want to get in on it. There are people, and not just a few, who try to convince the masses that the Holocaust never happened, let alone that a Jewish girl could come to a transformational relationship with Yeshua the Messiah. In an era when “snowflakes” are melting down over someone wearing a T-shirt that says, “Make America Great Again,” it is refreshing to hear the tale of someone who triumphed in every regard over the hideous hate of Nazi Germany.

George is hoping that WND readers will consider donating $5 to $10, the price of a designer coffee or lunch in order to help get the tale told. If you are interested in being a part of such a worthy endeavor, please go to https://www. gofundme.com/make-ahit-movie-with-wnd.

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

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All Things Soldier

The Dream Wedding Will Have To Wait

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

Floridian Air National Guard Senior Airmen Michael Davis and Lauren Durham were all set to get married on the beach this weekend. Everything was ready—the dream dress, the venue, the cake, the music, the wedding party, the guests, and the minister. However, Irma decided she would invade, and these two, who had been sweethearts since they were right out of high school, had to cancel their wedding because duty had not just called, it howled through the wind and waves of a hurricane.

They had to mobilize with their fellow ANG members for disaster response, and reported to the Convention Center in Orlando. Their deployment was going to be indefinite, so

they informed their families and friends that for the time being, Irma had nixed their nuptials.

However, while hanging in the hangar this past Sunday morning, and eating breakfast with their buddies, an idea began to emerge: “Why not get married today?” At first it seemed like a crazy, hare-brained far-fetched joke at best, and then there came that point of

decision and intention that can only be summed up with a “Yeah, let’s.” Everyone then sprang into action. They set up chairs, and the wedding canopy was a rack of rubber rescue boats. Other “decorative details” included rescue vehicles, and just in case the bride or groom fainted, there was a bevy of paramedics on board.

(That, of course, was only a joke and highly unlikely.)

Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)

$7

October 16th

11am - 1pm and 5pm-7pm

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

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The bride and groom wore matching uniforms, their only option. The difference was that Michael had on a “tux shirt,” one of those black T-shirts that are designed to look like the front of a tuxedo, which had been miraculously produced by his buddies in spite of the fact that all the stores in Orlando were closed. The bride also wore no makeup, nor wowed the crowd with an elaborate hairdo, but somehow someone found some orange flowers and made a bouquet for her.

The couple’s best friend happened to be a notary public, and he officiated.

Now, a cake was another matter entirely. When I was in Iraq and we had to avoid population dense environments such as the D-Facs (which is Armyspeak for Dining Facility, formerly known as Chow Halls or Mess Halls) due to a large increase in the threat level, one learned that certain MREs, (Meal,

Ready-to-eat) had specific trade-offs. The vegetarian burrito MREs, while not the meal of choice for a steak-and-potatoes kind of guy, had reallive M&Ms in the package, and they were often the first to be pirated off of the pallet on which the MREs were stacked. Michael and Lauren decided that the Skittles in their MREs would have to do, and that was going to be the wedding cake, at least for now.

As much fun as I had imagining this totally impromptu celebration, what got to me, as it always does, was the attitude of the newlyweds. It never crossed the minds of either Michael or Lauren to try to get out of their duty because of their wedding.

“Service before self,” Michael said, “and it will be a great story to tell our kids one day.” I hope that when the waters recede, they get to have the wedding of their dreams, should they still want it.

Mazel tov, dear Airmen, and thank you for your service!

September 15 - October 5, 2017

Tina's Tales

The Flip Side of Addiction: The Family

by Tina Cook Director, Athens-Limestone County Family Resource Center

I knew was out there in the harsh world of drugs longing to come home.

September is Gynecological Cancer Awareness month.

In memory of my mother, Mildred Ann Davis-Grisham and in honor of all those who suffer alongside addicts, I humbly allow my sister, Angie Cook-Norwood to share THE FLIP SIDE… We are all affected when we love an addict. Yes, those of us not choosing the lifestyle can go on with our lives, but there is always a nagging void, helplessness we can’t describe. The person we love is choosing to destroy themselves and we can only watch. Of course the watching comes after you realize the begging, the pleading, the negotiating, the money and the tears do not work.

It really comes down to the addict’s choice. As with all things, there are two sides to every story; the flip side.

Our family struggled with Tina and her addiction on and off for over thirty years.

The range of emotions we endured during those years could fill a novel. It is during times of strife we learn the true meaning of everyday words such as like and love; we all came to terms with the fact we loved Tina but we did not like her. The highs and lows were unbearable, but more unbearable was the realization there was never a ‘normal’ between the highs and lows; we could not find comfortable ground in our relationship with Tina, with addiction.

I truly believe as I look back on the events surrounding 2011, God had a plan for our family. We lost our dad June 2011; it was sudden and most unexpected. Tina was in jail for drug related

Tina and I are closer now than ever before in our lives.

We often smile as we recall our mother, an only child, reminding us having a sister is a gift; a sister ties together our past, present and future.

And, yes, as usual, mama was right; a sister is your best friend. Out of the loss Tina and I shared, Mildred’s Angels was birthed; an Ovarian Cancer Awareness, Advocacy and Resource group.

Together, we continue our mother’s journey and wish to empower women against this whispering disease.

They say a mother’s love can overcome all obstacles; I

The 3 of us in 2006 charges. I was so angry she was not with us, with me. It took a few days but I finally got the news to her; she was devastated. I recall wanting the news to impact her to the point of recovery; it did not.

We lost track of her until late in 2011. Tina was incarcerated yet again. I did not care; my heart could not take anymore. I hated drugs and at the time, Tina.

In February 2012, the world came crashing down on our family. Our mother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, stage III-C. The mental and physical fatigue of facing such a devastating illness began to take a toll on our family. In February 2013, my mom and I knew we needed help. The travel to Michigan to be with my mother was increasingly more difficult; my children and a job needed me in Alabama. During a trip to M.D. Anderson in Houston,

September 15 - October 5, 2017

my mother, realizing her health was swiftly declining, initiated the conversation of bringing Tina from Florida to Michigan. Although our communication with Tina was brief and limited, we did know she’d been living in a group home and was working; she’d only been sober outside of jail 9 months.

After much discussion, my mother and I realized Tina was the answer; she could easily leave her job and her home. The call to Tina was strange; rules were outlined and we all agreed Tina would come to Michigan.

My mother was hopeful; I was thankful; we both were apprehensive. Our love for Tina did not erase the fear of trusting her.

We lost our mother April 2013. Although the months for Tina and my mom were brief in number, the healing between them filled years of

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Me and Ang in 2016 unanswered questions and doubt. Tina’s devoted care of our mom touched my heart to the core; Tina was not only helping care for our mom but she was allowing me to care for my children. Those two months built a bridge between the years of the addiction that plagued our family. I finally had the sister my heart ached to have in my life, the sister

believe it and I now know it definitely can change one’s life. They also say when God closes a door, He opens another one. And sometimes we are open to the possibilities and we take a leap of faith; wisely, we run through the open door and discover God’s plan filled with Grace and we bask in all His Glory.

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Calendar of Events Vote For Favorite Decorated Duck

VVA Chapter 511 Annual Indoor Yard Sale Oct 13th - 14th

17915 West Elm St, at the corner of Lucas Ferry Rd. and Elm St. Friday, Oct. 13 and Saturday, Oct. 14 from 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m. Also, Monday, Oct. 16 during our monthly spaghetti day fundraiser. Donations of clean, useable goods appreciated. For more info call 256-233-4899.

Professional Ethics workshop Sept 22nd

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

ALC-Family Resource Center will be hosting a Professional Ethics workshop (4 CEU) with Dr. Mike McLemore on September 22nd.

The cost to attend is $20 pre-registration; $25 at door. Location: Revival Bldg, 303 W Washington St, Athens, AL. 7:30am - 12:30pm.

Refreshments and door prize drawings. Contact Tina Cook at 256230-0880 or email: alcfamilyrc@gmail.com for more details.

Shades of Bluegrass Festival Sept 29th - 30th

Gardening Questions Answered Every Tuesday

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

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 warmup 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.

8am. Registration $20 until 9/9, then $25. Packet Pickup and late registration at Fleet Feet in Huntsville 9/14 4-7 p.m., and KALB Office, 125 East St., Athens on 9/15 4-7 p.m. Online registration at www.RaceRoster.com. Information at www.duckandrun5K. com or call 256-233-8000.

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Be Ready Day Sep 21st

Limestone County Event Center, 114 West Pryor Street, Athens.

8:30AM to 2:00PM. Learn about local responders roles in the community, giveaways, free lunch and free admission.

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

Duck And Run 5K Sept 16th

Watch for decorated ducks appearing at businesses around town and vote for your favorite. $1 = 1 vote. All proceeds support KALB. For a list of businesses with ducks, visit www.

KALBCares.com under EVENTS tab, or call 256-233-8000.

Online voting is also available at the above website.

Rogersville, Al, Recreation Park, Optimist Drive. Friday 6pm 9pm, Saturday 1pm - 9pm. Admission: Friday $8, Saturday $10, both days $15. 12 & under free. Featuring: Friday - Pine Mountain Bluegrass, Iron Horse, Shades Of Bluegrass. Saturday - Grammy Winners Shawn Camp, Charlie Cushman, Johnny Warren And Kent Blanton. There will be a Shade Tree Band Contest SAT. First Prize is $400 and will perform at 8pm. Judging by audience begins at 5:30. Concessions available, venders welcome. For more information contact Facebook page - Shades of Bluegrass Festival. Dale Weathers @ 931-629-2285, Teresa Weathers @ 931-629-2413, Larry Weathers @ 256-710-3469, Bill @ Weathers Bros. Music 931-762-6055.

Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby Oct 6th

Adopt a duck for this rubber duck race taking place on 10/6 at 4 pm at Big Spring Memorial Park in Athens. You do not have to be present to win. Someone will take home the $1,000 ALC Grand Prize or one of 23 other prizes. $5 donation per duck, Dunkin' Donuts Quack Pack $25 for 6 ducks and coupon. Information and online duck adoptions at www.KALBCares.com under EVENTS tab, or call 256-233-8000.

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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.

September 15 - October 5, 2017

Special Feature

City Of Athens Releases Mobile App To Enhance Web Experience

by Holly Hollman

Athens City Communications Specialist The City of Athens is enhancing citizens’ web experience by offering a mobile app that provides information about city functions and an avenue for citizens to report issues.

The app name is “Athens Alabama Municipal Gov” and is a mobile friendly version of the city’s website at www.athensal.us.

The app includes information about agendas, calendar items, job applications, staff members’

September 15 - October 5, 2017

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contact information and alerts regarding cityrelated emergencies. In addition, the app has a function called “Citizen Request Tracker” where a citizen can take a photo of an issue, such as a pothole or malfunctioning traffic light, note the location and submit it to the city for review.

CivicPlus hosts the app.

CivicPlus is the company that designed the city’s website. The app is available for Android and Apple devices.

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

Taking A Moment, Taking A Breath

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Mayor Ronnie came into the office with a lot of concerns squarely on his shoulders. “Six million people out of power in Florida,” he said, as he put down his stuff.

“When we had the big tornado in 1974, I was in grad school, and still in the National Guard.

We had a lot of work to do,” he said, remembering how big the job was to clean up after a storm.

We talked about the rest of the natural disasters that had come our way, some seemingly back to back. Ice storms, floods, tornadoes, all of them had hit Alabama, and he said, “There is hard physical labor ahead in putting peoples’ lives back together.” Mayor Ronnie let me know that just the day before, the decision had been made to cancel the ANGA (America’s Natural Gas Alliance) conference scheduled to start September 11 at Leak City. The reason was to free up approximately 300 beds for people fleeing Florida, if they needed a place to land. As much as I know that the decision to do so will increase the work load for the Gas Department when they are able to re-schedule, as well as for the potential attendees to do the same, I was so glad that our city and county leadership had made the move to help in any way we can.

At that point, meaning as of Monday morning September 11, we were not completely out of the “Irma woods” ourselves.

Blair Davis, the new manager of the electric

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to step up for our finest hour.

Mayor Ronnie talked about the contrasts of the weekend. One the one hand, the 9/11 Heroes’ Run was the biggest yet, with approximately 330 runners, a fitting tribute to our soldiers as well as those who perished on 9/11. There was also a Marine Drill Team who ran in cadence for the entire race. On the same day, Big Spring Park was “overrun” with super heroes. It has become a grand show of force for some of our bravest warriors, kids who are facing down the “villains” of childhood cancer and

department called in to let the mayor know that he had just met with his staff, and that they were ready for what could be described as “Irma’s last gasp.” The City of Athens has a reciprocating agreement with other areas and states when there is a natural disaster, and the mayor said, “We’ve been in need, and people have helped us. We stand ready to help, and we’ll send whoever we can spare after we get through this.”

We took reflect on niversary while we

a moment to the 16th anof 9/11, and did so, Presi-

other potentially terminal diseases. How hard it was to compare that determination exhibited by adults and kids alike to fight and live well, versus the inner turmoil that caused a young man to end his life by throwing himself in the path of an oncoming train; it was one of the things that was clearly weighing on the mayor.

So, it was a time to take a moment, a breath, and pray; so we did for longer than usual. Then it was time for Ronnie to roll.

dent Trump was speaking on the same issue.

We talked about where we were when we heard about the planes going in to the Twin Towers, and how everything had changed as a result of that act. Mayor Ronnie then found a quote from the book we have been discussing as a series, Herd Your Goat, by Ron Gilliand. “Life’s experiences will either make you bitter or better.”

How true. We can either become contracted, fearful and bitter, or we can go on as individuals, a city, and a country

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September 15 - October 5, 2017

Slinkard On Success

What’s Your Definite Purpose?

by D. A. Slinkard

D.A. Slinkard is the manager of the Athens Staples store If I could tell you how to achieve everything in life that you wanted to achieve, would I have your attention? Obviously I do, as you’re on to sentence number two, and this article is going to be about getting the things in life you want. Sometimes we get what we didn’t want because we weren’t clear enough on what our actions should be to obtain our heart’s desire.

Too often in life we have bad things happen to good people all because of their inability to act fast enough. Businesses go under because they cannot sell products fast enough in quantities great enough to keep the creditors at bay. Success in life is all about taking the right action to achieve that which is important to us.

I’m going to ask you, “What is it that you are wanting to achieve with your life?” Go ahead and think about this one question and really dig deep for your answer. Now with the answer firmly within your mind, I want to ask you, “What has been holding you back from achieving your desired outcome?”

Studies from the Napoleon Hill Institute suggest that 95% of the world population is comprised of people walking around life with no purpose. I was taken aback by this number, but then it made sense why the richest 1% of the world holds as much wealth as the rest of the world combined.

This is not an article bashing the 1%, because honestly who wouldn’t want to be in that category for

financial wealth? Regardless though, the secret to separating yourself from the 95% walking around without a purpose is to learn how to find your purpose through this article.

I want you to think about your life and the energy it takes to make it through each day.

Now I want you to picture a rudder on a boat, and if that rudder becomes lost while out in the Tennessee River, the boat begins circling around. Eventually you’re going to run out of fuel. But keep in mind you had enough energy (fuel) to get back to shore; however, because your rudder (purpose) was lost, you didn’t obtain success. Your boat and your life were just going in circles.

What you need to do to find your “definite pur-

pose” in life begins by answering the following four questions. Your answers should be deliberate and with a purpose because otherwise you’re doing the same thing you’ve always done, and you’re gonna get the same results you’ve always gotten. Here we go: 1.) Decide your definite purpose in life.

2.) Write out a clear statement of this purpose.

3.) Write a plan for how you will obtain the object of your purpose.

4.) Create an accountability group of like-minded individuals, which is also known as a “mastermind” group, to help you achieve your goals.

You have two options when it comes to answering these questions: You can fly through them and

see how quickly you complete the assignment, which will have you walking away feeling much the same way you did prior to the exercise. You’ll rush through it and miss the entire purpose, seeing no benefit. The alternative way to handle this is to take some time to really reflect upon the questions, and be sincere in answering the questions listed.

I say sincere because after all, this is your future self you are writing this for. This exercise is for who you will become, not for who you are in this very moment. The hardest part is truly finding what that definite purpose in life is, because we have too many external factors that dictate what we think we should be going after.

Your definite purpose in life only holds meaning for you. It holds no weight for your parents, for your spouse, for your brother or sister, just you. Be honest with yourself when you write out the answers to these questions.

You want to write the answer to the first question and keep it in a place you can see it every day. You will need daily affirmation of what your purpose is to help achieve it. You will want to utilize your mastermind group to help you stay on course. You want to allow them to be your rudder when yours gets lost along the journey.

You will find your true self when you find your definite purpose and in doing so will separate yourself from the other 95%.

September 15 - October 5, 2017

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From the Alabama Veterans’ Museum

A Time To Honor And Remember 9/11 And POW/MIA Day

by Sandra Thompson, Director, Alabama Veterans’ Museum On Saturday, September 9, over 450 individuals gathered at the Alabama Veterans Museum to honor and remember our heroes of 9/11 at the third annual Travis Manion Foundation 9/11 Heroes Run. Our third annual run was the biggest to date with over 330 runners signed up. We would like to thank race director Whitney Hollingsworth and all of the volunteers who came out to help; we certainly could not do this without everyone working together! Amber Loggins spoke of her brother Adam who was killed in Iraq, and as I looked out into the crowd, it was hard to find a dry eye. Senator Bill Holtzclaw read a very moving letter from the Travis Manion Foundation and asked for a moment of silence to reflect and remember that fateful day and all who were lost.

It is also time to remember another set of individuals, our Prisoners of War (POW) and Missing in Action (MIA). The third Friday in September is set aside each year to honor and remember these heroes. According to the Department of Defense, (DOD) there are still over 80,000 individuals unaccounted for from the Vietnam War and past conflicts.

The majority are from WWII, with a staggering 73,536. Until 1979, there was no day to

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midst.

The glass is inverted L – to symbolize their in- t ability to share a toast. r The chairs are empty – v Y they are missing… g Let us now raise our a water glasses in a toast t to honor America’s o POW/MIAs, to the suc- T cess of our efforts to F account for them, and h to the safety of all now t serving our Nation! f We fly the POW/MIA K flag to ensure that as C Americans we remem- s ber our responsibility p to stand behind those C who serve our Nation, t and do everything pos- r sible to account for F those who do not re- b

honor these heroic individuals. The first “Missing Man Formation” was flown at Langley AFB, Virginia. National POW/MIA Recognition Day legislation was introduced in 1995, and ceremonies are now held throughout the nation.

The Missing Man Table and Honor Ceremony is one of them, and this humble ceremony goes as follows: As you entered the room, you may have noticed a special table; it is reserved to honor our missing men.

Set for six, the empty chairs represent Americans who were or are missing from each of the services – Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard – and civilians, all with us in

spirit. The table is round – to show our everlasting concern.

The cloth is white – symbolizing the purity of their motives when answering the call to serve.

The single red rose reminds us of the lives of these Americans…. and their loved ones and friends who keep the faith, while seeking answers.

The red ribbon symbolizes our continued determination to account for them.

A slice of lemon reminds us of the bitter fate of those captured and missing in a foreign land.

A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears of our missing and their families

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who long for answers after decades of uncertainty.

The lighted candle reflects our hope for their return – alive or dead.

The Bible represents the strength gained through faith in our country, founded as one nation under God, to sustain those lost from our

turn. Lest we forget!

Vietnam Veterans of America, Post 511 will hold a Missing Man Ceremony at the Veterans Museum on September 15 at 11:00 a.m.

Please join us in honoring and remembering those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

September 15 - October 5, 2017

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T r p

PlayAction Sports

Local Sports In Full Swing

by Tim Lambert

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

Local athletes have begun their seasons since our last report, including football, volleyball and cross country.

Youth fall soccer got off to a great start at the Sportsplex as well, with over 500 kids taking part, the largest turnout ever for Opening Day. The Athens Boys and Girls Football Association also had a successful jamboree to kick off their season with former Alabama players Kenneth Darby and Ahmad Childress in attendance to sign autographs and take pictures with fans.

Congratulations also go out to Emma Tarokh, who was recently selected as Youth Female Athlete of the Year by the Alabama Sports Festival Foundation. The award is based on sportsmanship, effort, attitude, overall athletic achievements, motivation and special attributes. The Athens Intermediate 5th grader and her teammates on the U12 Huntsville Futbol Club had participated in the Alabama State Games in June.

School sports summary: Ardmore Tiger pitcher Bill Williams announced his commitment to play for Mississippi State. The junior picked the Bulldogs over Alabama, Murray State, and MTSU. On the football field, Ardmore won their annual rivalry game with Elkmont 15-7, but lost their first regional game against Brooks 48-0.

Athens Bible School The Lady Trojans began ranked at #4 in Class 1A in preseason polls and made

came at the hands of Addison (40-20), Ardmore (157) and Lexington (47-15).

Early volleyball results include a win against Lauderdale County.

Ahmad Childress

James Clemens

a trip to Orlando for the KSA Fall Classic tournament at ESPN's Wide World of Sports to play teams from New Jersey, Massachusetts, California, Texas, Florida, and New York. Since their return, the Lady Trojans have notched victories against Athens, Clements and West Limestone.

Kenneth Darby

Athens Athens' football team had a promising 35-7 preseason win over longtime foe Russellville. The Golden Eagles’ regular season, however, took a downward turn with respective 48-11 and 35-7 losses to Sparkman and Hartselle. The volleyball team posted wins over West Limestone, Lindsay Lane, and Clements.

Clements The Colts opened their football season with a 14-7 win over Danville--the first opening game victory since 2008. Regional play opened with a heartbreaking 17-14 loss to Colbert Heights. The Lady Colts recorded volley-

September 15 - October 5, 2017

ball wins over Russellville and West Limestone.

East Limestone The Indians took on Fairview in a preseason football contest and emerged with a 24-14 win. A cross-county game with West Limestone resulted in a close 21-19 victory. Mae Jemison dealt East their first loss, 35-0 in region play. The Lady Indians volleyball started out ranked fifth on the Class 5A preseason rankings and have defeated Elkmont and Brooks so far.

The Jets started out their year with a 27-7 preseason win over Decatur, followed by a weather-postponed 2614 victory against Gardendale. The "Battle of Madison" with Bob Jones ended in a 40-14 loss, dropping their record to 0-6 versus the Patriots. The girls' cross-country team won their 4A-7A division at the Brooks Invitational while the boys finished third and the JV boys were second.

Volleyball wins thus far have come against Madison County, Arnold, Houston, Grissom, Spain Park, Sparkman, Hazel Green, Geraldine, Danville, South Warren, and Mountain Brook.

Lindsay Lane The JV Lions cross-country team ran to a third place in the 1A-3A division at the Brooks Invitational. Wins on the volleyball court have come over Athens Bible, Clements and West Limestone.

Tanner The Rattlers are 2-1 so far

under new head football coach Maurice Belser, defeating West Limestone 32-20, in their opener, losing to Mae Jemison 45-0 and bouncing back in their regional opener with West End 28-10.

West Limestone

The football team started their season falling to Tanner (32-20) and East Limestone (21-19). Region play began with a 27-3 victory at Priceville. The Lady Wildcats cross country team won the small schools division at the Pepsi Challenge and followed that up with another victory at the Chickasaw Trails meet in Oakville.

Announcements:

James Clemens youth cheer camp will be September 16 from 8 a.m. till noon in the gym. Cost is $35. Participants will cheer at a James Clemens football game. For more information, go to the James Clemens sports page at www.jamesclemensathletics.com

The Huntsville Lacrosse Association has youth programs starting up on September 17. For more information on upcoming events, go online to www. huntsvillelax.org.

Fall archery registration is going on at the Athens Rec Center until September 30.

Call 233-8740.

Elkmont The Red Devils are struggling in their first season under Duane Wales; losses

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Clean and Green

KALB Is In A Feathered FRENZY!

by Lynne Hart Executive Coordinator - Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful

About this time each year, the hustle and bustle in the KALB office is at full tilt! So what’s all the excitement about?

On Saturday, 9/16, we will host our 14th Annual Duck and Run 5K. Our first 5K was held in 2004, making ours the longest-running 5K in Athens.

Registrations will be accepted on race day beginning at 6:45 a.m.

Once we clean up after our 5K, we will begin gearing up for the Grease Festival on 9/30.

This is an Athens Main Street event; however, KALB will have a presence there all day. Look for the yellow ducks and that’s where you’ll find us. We will be promoting grease recycling in Athens as well as our Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby. KALB will also help vendors recycle their grease at the end of this festival. Don’t forget to wear your toga!

Leigh and I will pack away our grease recycling paraphernalia and get ready for the Old Time Fiddlers Convention on October 6 and 7. This is one of our all-time favorite events.

• Candle and Melts – Trinity’s of Athens

We enjoy ourselves, but we also work very hard.

KALB will be responsible for providing recycling opportunities for guests and vendors. Our Athens-Limestone Recycling Center staff will be present to ensure that containers are serviced and vendors have what they need. We will also have volunteers handing out litter bags at the gates reminding guests that it is a clean and green event.

Cub Scouts will also work with us to help clean up litter that just might find its way to the ground.

In between all of that, we will also be adopting ducks for our Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby.

The rubber duck race takes place Saturday, October 7 at 4:00 p.m. at the Duck Pond across from the college campus.

Our business community never fails to amaze us.

Check out this prize list!

• $1,000 American Leakless Co. Grand Prize • 4 One-Day Park Hopper Passes – Disney World • Round of Golf for 4 Plus Cart – Canebrake Club • $250 Osborne’s Jewelers Gift Card • 1-Night Stay – Marriott

We’ll also be proudly showing off the ducks entered into our Quacky Duck Decorating Contest. Guest can vote for their favorite to win Best Decorated Duck – People’s Choice with their donations to KALB. $1 equals 1 vote.

These ducks will also be auctioned off. I heard one duck say he hopes that you will take him home!

Several ducks come with some very valuable attachments!

Shoals

mingham Zoo

• $100 Gift Card – Hobb’s Jewelers

• $50 Free Beef Purchase – Limestone County Farmers Federation

• $100 Gift Card - Publix • $100 cash from each of the following: Brody Jackson, State Farm Agent; Distinctive Landscaping, Inc.; Limestone Drug; Morell Engineering • Inline Lighting – TBA • $100+ Gift Package – SK Salon

• $50 Gift Certificate – Eastside Pharmacy (2) • Free Ice Cream for a Year – MaggieMoo’s • $25 Free Poultry Purchase – Limestone County Farmers Federation

Fundraisers are a fact of life for all non-profits. It has become even more important for KALB due to loss of some appropriations last year. Since fundraising is a requirement, we work hard to make it fun for all! Your support will allow us to continue to take our message of personal responsibility for our local environment into the city and county schools, and continue our other litterabatement, recycling, and beautification projects throughout the year!

If you are at any of these events, do stop and say hello!

• Photo Frame – Pimentos

• 4 Passes – U.S. Space and Rocket Center • 4 Flex Tickets – Theatre Huntsville • 2 Flex Tickets – Theatre Huntsville • Family Package – Bir-

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

Become a Fan

September 15 - October 5, 2017

Cooking with Anna

Feel-Good Lasagna Cups

by Anna Hamilton

Webster’s Dictionary defines Admiration as a feeling of respect and approval or an object of esteem.

Over the past month my level of admiration for my husband has grown substantially. He underwent gastric sleeve bariatric surgery and both of our lives have changed forever.

Early in our relationship, we bonded over food. We both LOVED food.

Where we were going to eat was always our number one priority when we went out for a date. After we got married and wanting to be a perfect Southern wife, I loved my husband with food. One of the wonderful things about living in the South is how we comfort each other with food. Whether it be a wedding, a funeral, a birthday celebration, or a backyard cookout, most events are focused around the food. As a caterer, I love seeing people happy when they eat my food. The same is true when I would cook for my husband, my food was an extension of my love. I would often make his favorite meal or bake his favorite dessert; when instead we

September 15 - October 5, 2017

could have just as easily taken a walk at our favorite park or enjoyed a movie together.

After surgery, because cooking is such an important part of my life, I had to find a way to still cook for my husband.

The Bariatric Diet consists of mainly protein. Good healthy protein can be so much more than eating meat all day long. One of his favorite things to eat before surgery was lasagna. By combining the lovely cheesy filling and baking it in individual servings, you get the satisfaction of a lasagna without the heaviness of pasta, you get a FeelGood Lasagna! And guess what, I love them too! I pair mine with a green salad on the side and we both have a hearty, filling supper full of protein.

My husband is one of the strongest, most determined, and most dedicated people I know. Admiration is not a strong enough word to describe how proud I am to be his wife and walk by his side in this new journey in our lives.

I am looking forward to discovering new healthy recipes and I hope you all reading my column will join with me in the discovery of new dishes.

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Feel-Good Lasagna Cups What You Need:

1 Cup Ricotta Cheese ½ Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese 1 Large Egg, Beaten 1 tsp Italian Seasoning 1 tsp garlic powder Salt and Pepper to Taste ½ Cup Marinara Sauce ½ Cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Directions:

Mix ricotta cheese, parmesan, beaten egg, and seasonings together. Spray muffin tin with non-stick spray. Spoon mixture into muffin tin filling about ½ full. Spoon a small amount of marinara on top and sprinkle each with mozzarella cheese.

Bake it in the oven @ 450 for about 2025 minutes. Makes approximately 9 with about 7 grams of protein each. Enjoy!!

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September 15 - October 5, 2017

Cover Story

The 51st Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention Oct 5-7

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

ering of fiddlers, guitarists, singers, and buck dancers from the Valley. Back then no one could have dreamed that it would grow into what is now being called the “Granddaddy of Mid-South Fiddlers Conventions,” and has gone on to become one of the most important musical festivals in the region. It is estimated that more than 15,000 people will pleasantly invade Athens for the event, and some will stay clear through til the end of the month for the rest of our fall celebratory season.

This year also marks the 90th anniversary of the beginning of the Delmore Brothers’ career, and in their honor, a duo called The Farmer and Adele will be performing a tribute concert to the brothers. It will be held on Oct 7 at 3:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. in McCandless Hall. The Farmer and Adele perform all over the country, and their songwriting is described as “uplifting, heroic and simple, but hearkens back to the time of Gene Autry and Roy Rogers.”

I spoke with Terry Stepp and Chris Latham of Athens State University about the 2017 Convention, and found out what is new for this year. “We are bringing back the free Thursday night concert,” said Chris, who was hired about six months ago as Director of Marketing, Public Relations and Publications. The free concert will be held at 7:00 p.m. on October 5. It will be performed by Mark Kuykendall, Bobby Hicks, and Asheville Bluegrass. The Thursday night free concert will be held on the Alabama Farmers Cooperative Main Stage in front of Founders Hall.

Seeing as this is Chris’s first “Fiddlers,” he said that he is looking forward “to see how the campus is transformed.”

Terry, who is the advisor for the Student Government Association at ASU, told me

about how the Convention has been used for scholarship programs and other student projects. “The Fiddlers Convention is our main fundraiser,” he said. Through the years, over $460,000 has been raised, and this year will put the total of endowments considerably closer to the half-million dollar mark.

Another of the celebrity concerts will be performed by Dailey and Vincent, whom Chris has seen at the Grand Ol’ Opry. “They are really good,” he said, “and are a bit more geared to the younger crowd.” They will perform on October 6 at 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

There are typically more than 200 musicians participating each year, and there will be a total of $17,750 given away in prize money. There are 20 different categories, including several fiddle and guitar categories, harmonica, mandolin, bluegrass banjo, dobro, dulcimer, old-time singing, banjo, and buck dancing.

While the focus at Fiddlers is always going to be the music

September 15 - October 5, 2017

and the musicians, one of the best parts is having the chance to see the vendors and sample their wares. Approximately 150 booths featuring old-fashioned arts and crafts will be part of the festivities. Convention goers will see everything from traditional artwork to coal-fired metal works. There will be 25 food vendors on hand to provide everything from a quick snack to a full meal, and there are 8 new food vendors for this year’s festival.

“There are 42 new craft vendors,” said Terry, “and some of them will offer such varied items as products from a lav-

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ender farm, as well as coffee that is custom-roasted.”

From the standpoint of logistics, another new feature of this year’s convention is that all Fiddlers attendees will have to wear wristbands while they are on campus. Blue will be the color for a single-day ticket, which will cost $15.00.

The two-day will be a red wristband, and the cost for that one will be $20. “There are also group rates,” Terry said. “For every group of 20 or more, $3 will be knocked off the price of a one-day ticket, and $5 from the two-day ticket,” he added. There will

be what they call the Cash Gate Prize, which is a drawing from ticket numbers at the ticket booth. “Friday’s will be $200, and Saturday’s will be $300,” said Terry. The Boy Scouts will be helping with litter control, and an army of volunteers will be on duty to answer questions as well as help see to it that the convention goes smoothly.

The Fiddlers Convention really is one of the best things to happen in Athens all year long, and there is something for everyone. It is also a family-friendly event which is more than reasonably priced.

To see people who have never met before come together to make music, tell stories, and make friends is simply heartwarming. The convention culminates on Saturday night when the 2017 Alabama State Fiddle Champion is announced, and we would like to invite everyone to come and join us for the entire weekend to celebrate “the Granddaddy of ‘em all.” For more information please go to www.tvotfc.org.

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Health and Fitness

Why Can’t I Sleep?

by Janet Hunt

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

Often I cannot sleep at night or I sleep very poorly. And I hear the same concern from many of my students, which is not all that unusual. According to the American Sleep Association, 35.3% of Americans report sleeping less than seven hours a night which is the minimum recommendation for most of us. Chronic lack of sleep does more than make us tired. It lowers our immune-system functioning and increases our risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. Lack of sleep also negatively impacts cognition – impairing memory, judgment and concentration.

If you fall into that 35.3%, below are some suggestions that may help you. First, set up your bedroom. If unwanted noise or silence is an issue, a fan can help neutralize the sound.

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Ensure you are sleeping with the right mattress and pillows.

Now that you are set up, here are some sleep dos and don’ts: •Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day (give or take 20 minutes).

•Don’t eat a heavy meal near bedtime as it can interfere with digestion. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can interrupt sleep in the middle of the night •Keep all blue light electronics out of the bedroom (TV, smartphones and tablets).

•Exercise regularly but not right before bed if it tends to rev you up instead of calm you down.

•If you wake up in the middle of the night and can’t get back to sleep after five to 10 minutes, get out of bed and sit

quietly in another room (don’t turn on electronics).

Below are some ideas that can promote sleepiness: •Hot bath/shower •Reading •Gentle stretches •Journal writing •Hot cup of decaffeinated tea •Meditation •Quiet time Now that you know some dos and don’ts, it is time to set up some sleep rituals. First, look at your current sleep habits and identify the negative factors. My bet is the culprits are TV and smartphone. I hear people say they watch TV until they fall asleep

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or play games on their phone.

If all else fails, see your doctor. But I would turn to drugs as a last resort.

Often they will make

you groggy the following day; and all drugs have side effects. In my opinion, the less you take the better off you are.

September 15 - October 5, 2017

Cover Story

The Limestone Health Facility Spotlight On Carlos Shannon

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

deep porch located across the street from Belle Chevre Creamery on Upper Fort Hampton Road. The Shannons were sharecroppers, and Carlos worked mules and cotton all the years he was growing up. He attended a one-room school located on Beulah Road in Elkmont, and it literally was called Hillbilly School!

He told his daddy, “There’s got to be a better way to make money than sharecropping,” and went to work for Community Gas in Huntsville, getting under houses and wrapping duct work with insulation. He worked several different jobs for various businesses, large and small. They included selling Dr. Pepper, selling cakes for Dolly Madison, and working at L&S on North Jefferson.

When Carlos was 16, he

met his sweetheart, Anne, at a swimming hole at Vernon Ford. Anne was 15 at the time, and they were married four years later on Valentine’s Day, 1963. They have two children, Paula and Carlos II, three grandkids, and a great granddaughter who calls Carlos “Grandy.”

Carlos and Anne lived out their own version of the American Dream by opening a convenience store in Piney Chapel in 1975, and they sold it in 1986. Interestingly, Carlos loves all things Western, and on the same property built a cowboy town, which boasted a lovely log cabin in which they lived for several years after their home burned down in 1994. During his “cowboy era,” he used to go to Old York to participate in the cowboy shootouts for the tourists. “I got shot off a mule more times than I can remember,” Carlos said with a

September 15 - October 5, 2017

grin. Carlos fashioned his Old York character after Festus on Gunsmoke, who was played by veteran actor Ken Curtis.

Festus named his mule Ruth, and Carlos named his mule Gertrude.

After Carlos and Anne sold the convenience store, they travelled the country for several years, and became an early version of “American Pickers,” finding all kinds of small antiques, knives and artwork that would be a treasure to just the right person. “We would go places, find stuff, bring it back and sell it. We would go out again, and bring our finds back again,” Carlos said. Because they had limited space, they sold smaller things like antique corn huskers, and other items that could loosely be called American Primitive. For a while, Carlos sold pocket knives, and he told me, “Used to you could bite down on the handle of a

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horn-handled knife and tell if it was real. Then they got so good at making plastic handles that you couldn’t tell any more, and I wasn’t going to sell anything that wasn’t authentic.”

With regard to the care he has received at Limestone Health as a rehab patient, he and Anne had many positive things to say. “When I first got here after breaking my hip, I couldn’t hardly move,” said Carlos. Anne added, “He’s made a lot of progress. Now he can get into a truck.” Carlos has played Bingo and won, and he loves the food prepared by the kitchen. His favorites at the facility are biscuits and gravy, and cornbread. He also said, “If I need help, they come quick.” Through misty eyes he added, “I love all my nurses, and I think they love me.” He is hoping to be released from rehab at the end of September.

We moved on to the topic of favorites.

Favorite color? “Red.” Favorite food? “Shrimp, all kinds. Boiled shrimp, grilled shrimp, you name it,” said Carlos.

Favorite food to cook? “I love to grill, and make stews. I

would make a pot of stew in a big wash tub,” he said.

Favorite scripture? “Psalms 23.” He and Anne have attended Hobbs Street Church of Christ for many years.

Favorite President of the United States? “Ronald Reagan.”

Favorite actress? “Debbie Reynolds in Tammy And The Bachelor.” I sang him the chorus from Tammy’s In Love, one of the first songs I learned as a kid. He also loves Loretta Lynn.

Favorite actor? Ken Curtis, who played Festus in Gunsmoke.

Biggest change in his lifetime? Most of the time, residents will say things like “the Internet,” or “landing on the moon.” For Carlos, it was this: “Having all the Sun Drop I wanted because I owned my own business, vs. getting a 12 oz. RC Cola when I walked with my granddaddy to get a GI haircut.”

Advice to young people?

“Honor thy Father and Mother, and get a job!”

‘Nuff said; that is some wise counsel from a man who has lived a full life with his sweetheart by his side.

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Learning As A Lifestyle

Once In A Lifetime

by Wanda Campbell Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 A “once-in-a-lifetime” experience is something you will probably only do once. For me, visiting the Holy Land or watching the Aurora Borealis in Iceland is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Most of us will only dream about that once-in-a-lifetime experience, but we can make our dreams come true.

In 2007, a movie titled The Bucket List came out. It was about two complete strangers finding themselves sharing a hospital room.

They have two things in common: they need to come to grips with their illness and they want to do a number of things before they die.

They check themselves out of the hospital and begin their once-in-a-

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lifetime adventure. The movie stars Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman. It is a fun movie about hope and growing old and not putting off experiences. Of course, Jack Nicholson’s character was a millionaire so he could afford everything.

Not all of our once-in-alifetime experiences are costly trips to Europe.

Sometimes items on our bucket list are free or of little cost, but we put them off for another time. How long can you wait?

“Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today” is attributed to both Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin. “Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left over from those who hustle,”

said Abraham Lincoln.

Michael Landon said, “Whatever you want to do, do it now! There are only so many tomorrows.”

What is on your bucket list? I really want to know. You can call me at 256-233-8262 or email wanda.campbell@athens.edu.

My bucket list has a couple of things on it.

I would like to take my kids on the trip of their lifetime. Two want to go to Ireland, and one wants to go to Italy and France on a cooking tour. For myself, I would like to go to Antarctica. I know it is a COLD, desolate place but I want to see it. Since I will probably never get to Antarctica, I have chosen to go to Iceland instead.

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The Athens State Alumni Association is sponsoring a trip to Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights from October 13 through October 19, 2018. The trip is seven days and includes 10 meals. The tour includes Reykjavik, Northern Lights Cruise, Golden Circle, Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, Vik, Eyjafjallajökull Volcano Visitor Centre, Skogar Folk Museum, Skógafoss, Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, Skaftafell National Park, Vatnajökull Glacier, and Blue Lagoon.

What an opportunity to discover Iceland, a land forged by fire and ice. It has steaming lava fields and massive glaciers, thundering waterfalls and plunging fjords. It is

also a rare opportunity to see the aurora borealis — one of nature’s most dazzling light displays, also known as the northern lights.

I have been told that the Northern Lights are going away so I really want to see them, if I can.

I may never be able to pronounce the places that I will travel, but I am sure it will be amazing. If you are interested in traveling with me, there will be a trip briefing on Monday, October 9, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the Waters Hall Conference Room on the 3rd floor. If you plan to attend, call me at 256-233-8262. We will also discuss the trip to Venice, Florence, and Rome.

September 15 - October 5, 2017

The View From The Bridge

Don’t Sign So Fast!

by Jackie Warner Jackie Warner

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

As a seasoned realtor, I definitely feel it is very important for my clients not only find the right home but to really take time to consider this major investment and make an informed decision.

Buying a home is wonderful but a costly purchase, so taking the time to make sure it is a sound decision means knowing you did your homework before signing the contract. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Know your budget.

Don’t call the realtor or start looking at houses until you definitely know that you are preapproved to purchase a home. Make sure you understand the loan products that you qualify to use for your home purchase. All options are not created equal.

2. Have your own realtor/agent. It does not cost you anymore to have your own representation. You actually may save money because you have some-

September 15 - October 5, 2017

one negotiating on your behalf.

3. Don’t trust all the online information you find. Do your own research.

4. Don’t plan on getting everything on your wish list. Everything should be a deal breaker.

5. Be realistic in your home search. Waiting for the ultimate may cause you to lose the best deal.

6.

Just

because

you

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found a foreclosure, doesn’t make it a great buy…it could be a money pit.

7. Once you find the home, although everything looks great, still get a home inspection.

It is worth the money!

Your home inspector will see beyond the pretty colors and hardwood floors.

8. Review all the costs associated with your purchase before you sign. Ask questions so you make the most in-

formed decision.

For additional Real Estate Tips visit me at w w w. v a l l e y m l s . c o m / jackiewarner Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional Jackie Warner, Community Outreach Specialist Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com Check out upcoming events: http://thebridgeus.yolasite.com/

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Horse Whispering

A Horse And His Boy…Or Girl

by Deb Kitchenmaster Having ‘writers block’ is not fun when you have an article to write! Thankfully, I am surrounded by caring, understanding, encouraging people. Stillness became my friend as I opened to the block in my heart, tuning into the Discovery Channel inside.

On September 3, a vehicle driven by our Minnesota friends of thirty years, pulled onto our yard. The last time they had paid us a visit was in April of 2011, when the tornadoes were touching down all over Alabama. One of the conversations prior to their coming this year was about the horses. In fact, I was told that it will be nice simply to have a cup of coffee together; HOWEVER, there was something about the horses! I NEED to spend time with the horses.

Herein is my challenge.

Will I have the courage to declare publicly in writing the powerful creatures horses are? These fourlegged animals that are capable of teaching their human caretakers a thing or two. Horses help people.

Horses teach life lessons.

Will I be brave enough to be a voice that recognizes horses have the potential to reinvigorate the very heart and soul of humanity?

Every horse is a teacher and a healer, and when we are in the presence of a horse, what the horse offers is what we need at the time. My Minnesota friend’s work with her horse, Praise, was a unique and life-enhancing experience. Without the support of the horse, life can lose

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my friend stood by a casket saying, “Good-bye,” to her sister. Praise was aware of that. Horses are all about energy. When we ignore energy, we miss 99 percent of reality.

I received the promised call when they returned to their home safely. In this conversation I was told that the t-shirt she was wearing with Miss Praise was not going to be washed in the laundry for awhile. She held it close and took a deep direction and be empty for a great many people.

It was brought to my attention while I was in the round pen, with friend and horse, that there is no end to what the horse is capable of activating. Through horse care and understanding, we can learn self-care and people care. My friend has worked over twentyfive years in the activity department of a nursing home -- loving on people, singing hymns and teaching gracefilled Bible studies to the elderly. Somehow Praise knew this. And in one of many spectacular moments, horse blessed friend with a highlight of her journey when the horse spoke to the human’s heart…..”Know who you are and be who you are.”

What a gift!

C.S. Lewis’ book THE HORSE AND HIS BOY was a delightful read for me. Horses from Narnia talked to humans. Imagine that! I would like to say,

horses from Corral Connections talk to humans, also. There was this moment when horse was teaching human at a core level. All the horses were at an absolute pause until human ‘got it.’ Being sensitive and quite conscious, my friend was aware of the other horses. She said, “Deb, all the other horses stood still, watching,

looking, and waiting for me to receive from Praise what she was offering me. When I did, they went about their own business. Each horse knows they are a therapy horse.” This is not the first time I have heard this. I smiled and nodded. WE ARE IN THIS TOGETHER! Truly we are.

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There was no riding on a back of a horse. There sniff. Praise! She smiled, was riding between un- she cried, she thanked, she derstanding and con- honored, she was filled sciousness. There was with gratitude for a beauno kick to go and pull to tiful life changing experiwhoa. There was come ence. close and back away. “Imagine what a wonderThere were three specif- ful world it would be if ic times the horse licked, all humans listened to the chewed, rolled eyes, stuck guidance and wisdom on out tongue when the hu- offer from the horse.” man used her voice in statYour NEIGHbor, ing a truth she has ownerDeb Kitchenmaster ship of inside. There was Corral Connections a moment when horse www.corralconnections.com had one big tear drop fall 256-426-7947 from her right eye. Two days before getting on the Animal B.E.S.T. practitioner road to come to Alabama, dkitchenmaster@mchsi.com

September 15 - October 5, 2017

Mental Health Minute

(A)lone(ly)

by Lisa Philippart, Licensed Professional Counselor “I used to think the worst thing in life was to end up alone. IT’S NOT. The worst thing in life is to end up with people that make you feel all alone.”

Robin Williams Can you be happy by yourself? Have you had periods in your life where you were by yourself, but wishing for the company of others? In both of these situations, you were alone, but you were most likely only lonely in one of them. Lonely and alone are both adjectives with very different meanings. Lonely describes a feeling of sadness stemming from isolation or abandonment. Alone describes a single person or object, separate from others. So, and stay with me, a person can be alone without feeling lonely, since alone is a state of being in separation or solitude, and lonely is an emotional response of feeling sad or abandoned. You can also feel lonely without being alone.

Why am I so concerned with the semantics of these two words? Because sometimes in my practice, clients confuse the terms, or more often they believe the words are interchangeable. I think it is important to understand how being alone is not necessarily

a bad thing. In fact, I believe that we each need time alone every day to allow our thoughts to settle and to focus on the present moment. Women in particular, seem to have a more difficult time with aloneness than men. And it is generally for one of two reasons: (1) Either we are usually so busy with taking care of family and work and the home and others, that we don’t MAKE the time to ground ourselves.

In fact, we multi-taskers often feel guilty spending time alone. There’s too much to do! We can’t waste time seeking alone-time! (2) Or we fear being alone because we might become lonely. And being lonely feels sad. I have counseled women who are terrified of being alone.

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The very thought sends them into a panic. These women have worked to ensure that they are never alone, to the point that their phone is never out of their hand. Their phone has become their constant connection to others.

I am going to suggest that fear and busyness are not effective ways to avoid being alone. The time will come when you will be alone. And when it happens, what will you do? Those are the moments when our minds take over and choose a path for us. One direction leads to loneliness, sadness, fear, or rejection.

The other route leads to contentment, solitude, serenity, or mindfulness.

So we are back to the skill of accepting ourselves,

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flaws and strengths, and appreciating our uniqueness and worth. Now is the time to practice being alone. You can learn to appreciate who you are and actually enjoy spending time with and by yourself. You need to be your own best friend.

It’s being content in your own company, and for some that can be extremely difficult. “Loneliness expresses the pain of being alone and solitude expresses the

glory of being alone.”

Paul Tillich

Until next time, spend a few moments each day taking pleasure in your tranquility.

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.

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Medical Update

Venous Insufficiency And Varicose Veins

by Tracy A. Lowery MD, Board Certified Vascular Surgeon Venous Insufficiency (poorly functioning veins) and varicose veins of the lower extremities are some of the most common medical conditions experienced by people in this country. Over 40 million Americans have some degree of venous problems making it the most common chronic medical condition in North America.

Each of us has many veins in our legs, with these veins varying in size and location. Regardless of size and location, each of these veins provides the same function. Blood that is pumped to the legs is collected by these veins and returned to the heart.

If the veins are not functioning correctly the legs may develop symptoms or become varicose.

Varicose veins can be seen as dilated twisted blood vessels just below the skin surface that appear bluish and may bulge when sitting or standing. Spider veins are red or blue veins on top of the skin surface.

For many years physicians have considered most problems with abnormal veins to be cosmetic and not symptomatic. We now know that poorly functioning veins not only affect the appearance of the legs, but also have a tremendous affect on how the legs feel.

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Symptoms of varicose veins and venous insufficiency include pain, aching, heaviness, fatigue, swelling, and restlessness at night. These symptoms may be present with or without any veins being visible to the naked eye. These symptoms may involve one or both legs.

Anyone can develop vein problems, but the risk is increased if there is a family history of vein problems. The risk is also increased as we age, as over half of us over the age of 50, will have some degree of

be tired and swollen.

Women have a higher incidence of vein problems than men, most likely secondary to pregnancy. Other conditions, that may increase one's risk of developing vein problems, are obesity, sedentary life style, standing for long periods of time on hard surfaces, and jobs that require prolonged sitting or standing.

The evaluation of vein function can be determined in a few minutes by a painless, outpatient ultrasound

ment and more aggressive intervention.

Conservative treatment of venous insufficiency and varicose veins include increased walking, elevation of the legs, and the wearing of graded compression stockings. Stockings can be below-the-knee, thighhigh or panty hose.

Stockings do a good job of minimizing leg swelling which tends to improve symptoms of varicose veins.

vein problems. Often patients will overlook subtle symptoms thinking that as they age their legs are supposed to

performed in a specialty vein center. If vein function is abnormal, treatment options include both conservative treat-

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If conservative therapy does not noticeably improve a patient’s symptoms, then more definitive treatment is available. This treatment of abnormal veins is performed in an outpatient setting; requires no sedation, only local

anesthesia; and is covered by most insurance carriers. This treatment, radiofrequency ablation, is used to not only improve the appearance of the legs but also improve the symptoms of venous insufficiency.

If you have veins visible on your legs or symptoms similar to those described above, please call Crestwood Vein Center at 256429-5346 to schedule your evaluation.

Tracy A. Lowery MD Board Certified Vascular Surgeon Varicose Vein Specialist Crestwood Vein Center 185 Whitesport Drive Suite 2 Huntsville, Alabama 35801

September 15 - October 5, 2017

Foreman’s Forum

Fighting For Your Life!

by Paul Foreman There is a friend of mine, a retired deputy sheriff named Gary Kamp, who just went to be with the Lord. He was one of the finest deputy sheriffs I ever had the sincere pleasure of knowing and working with. Sometimes, words on paper just don’t seem adequate to say what I really mean.

I just have to tell a true story about Gary.

My intentions by telling this story is by no means meant to glorify what I did. I will be posting this story on Gary’s Facebook page, specifically honoring him.

Gary was a Christian man and it always showed in his demeanor and actions. Gary was diagnosed with cancer about the same time I was, in late 2015. He and his wife Marie had retired over near Knoxville. I did not know about Gary’s cancer until I saw a woman in the waiting room at The Cancer Center in Huntsville.

She looked a lot like Gary’s wife Marie. I was rushing to another appointment, so I did not stop and say anything.

As it turned out, it was not her. But, it lead me to contact them on Facebook, and later I found that Gary was indeed being treated for cancer at a Cancer Center in Knoxville.

I followed his posts and that of Marie for about a year. He seemed to be getting better.

Then, two weeks ago, I saw where his brother posted that Gary was in Hospice Care. That posting stunned me. Gary was a Warrior Fighter of the highest order. Gary lost his final battle with cancer on Friday, Sept.

1.

The story: One night about midnight I was on the way back to my

assigned zone when I heard, via the patrol car radio, TEN TWENTY FOUR! This is radio code for trouble send help! It is not used lightly. The radio was then silent. I waited a bit then said, “Wasn’t that K-9 105 calling for help? Where is he?” “The dispatcher then came on with K-9 105, repeat your last.”

Silence. I repeated my request for his location.

“He is on Aldridge, right behind the Fire Station off Crystal Dr.”

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I did not bother to wait for the Watch Commander to approve a Code 3 run. I hit the switches for the lights and siren, and took off like a banshee. Gary was a big guy, not fat, but big and muscular. If he called Ten Twenty Four on the radio, he really needed it! I blew through a few traffic light, and the en-

gine on my Ford Crown Victoria patrol car was screaming. I turned onto the street, and at first, I could I could only see Gary’s patrol car. His K-9 was going berserk in the back. Then, I spotted Gary struggling with the suspect down on the ground under some orange trees. Gary had the bad guy in a death grip and wasn’t letting go.

The bad guy had Gary in a death grip and wasn’t letting go either! I knew the bad guy. I had been

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to this house before.

This bad guy just loved beating up his wife as often as he could.

I bailed out of my car and headed into the fray.

I was a lot heavier in those days, about 235, not including the gun belt and gear. I hit that bad guy like a runaway freight train. Grabbing him around the neck, I

rolled him away from Gary and with my 235 lbs. on his neck, I got him cuffed! It would be an understatement to say that Gary was very pleased to see me.

But, my praise goes to Gary. He had refused to give up! His radio had been knocked into some tall weeds. The remote door lock that would have released the K-9 was pinned between their bodies and Gary could not get to

it. The bad guy went to jail after he visited the local Emergency Room for treatment of some unspecified injuries. If Gary had given up and let go, would the bad guy, have run off or attacked and tried to get Gary’s gun?

It's the same way when civilians are defending themselves. DON’T EVER GIVE UP! Your life and the lives of your loved ones will depend on you NOT giving up. Here is a word of wisdom for wives and older children. This is controversial. Jump in and help your husband or father! Grab a baseball bat, hockey stick, or a lamp and use it on the bad guy when fighting for your life.

Rest in peace Gary Kamp. You are in the arms of the Lord Jesus. No more sorrow, no more pain. No more worries no more tears.

You are TEN EIGHTY SEVEN. Your watch is over now. Your friends with take it from here.

Paul Foreman is a retired deputy sheriff from Lee County Florida, now living in Athens. Paul is an NRA Certified Firearms Instructor. For questions about self-defense, or firearms training, Paul can be reached at his web site, www.Paulforeman.com, or E-Mail at Captureman@ PaulForeman.com To join the NRA and protect your 2nd Amendment rights, go to Paul’s web site and click on the NRA Eagle.

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