September 16, 2016

September 16th - October 6th, 2016

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

See Our Listings Inside this edition...

Pages 25 - 32

Special Feature

Damsel In Defense: Equip.Empower.

Educate...

Angie Thomas honorably served our country as part of the U.S. Army during the era of Desert Storm, and her adventures included time in Saudi Arabia, which was...

Page 5

Special Feature

50th Fiddlers Convention Set For October 6-8

By Ali Elizabeth Turner Athens State University will host the 50th annual Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention on October 6-8 at the school's campus in Athens, Alabama. The musical Continued on page 15

Roger’s Studio:

Charlie Wallace: Coaching You Through Every Season Of Life...

“Tell me what brought you to seek a life coach.”

Is how my first coaching session began. I had been thinking about hiring a life coach for certain places where...

Page 7

Closing But Not Quitting, And Following Through On a Promise To Vicki

Horse Whispering Bite Me...

Have you asked, “What is this?” “How could this happen?”

“What do you think happened?” “Isn’t this interesting?” “Who would have thought?”...

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September 16 - October 6, 2016

Riders In The Sky

By Ali Elizabeth Turner Roger’s Portrait Studio is one of the landmark businesses on our Courthouse Square, and has been the source of more than 30,000 photographic sessions, both on site and off. Founded by Roger

Continued on pages 17

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September 16 - October 6, 2016

Publisher’s Point

Getting Bitten By The 5K Bug

Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Copy Editor Rachel Clark

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Contributing Writers Janet Hunt Lynne Hart Wanda Campbell Paul Foreman Shelley Underhill Sandra Thompson Rosemary Dewar Deb Kitchenmaster Jackie Warner Sasha Acelajado, MD

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 6 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 7 The Millennial Mind . . . . . . 9 From The Vets' Museum . . . . 10 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Shelley . . . . . 13 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 14 Cover Stories . . . . . . . 15 & 17 A View From The Bridge . . . 16 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . 18 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 19

When I was a kid, running, even barefoot, was about as natural as breathing. Then I got hit hard with seasonal allergies, and some of my running was curtailed. I took it back up again as a young bride when I taught P.E. at a private Christian school. However, there were times when the allergies literally did me in to the point that I had to teach P.E. from my Mustang, occasionally rolling down the window to wheeze out coaching commands to my students, and then rolling it back up. I replaced running with dancing as an expression of worship, and ultimately running became something that I didn’t know I was missing.

Fast forward to 2016. For reasons I can’t exactly explain, last winter I pretty much parked my keester on the couch, and other than the rigors of delivering Athens Now, I became a semi-permanent fixture there. I quickly put on “the freshman fifteen,” except I was no longer a freshman in anyone’s book. I found that I was caught in that Catch-22 of exercise and wellness: you need to move to have energy, but you are too tired to move. Then, my faithful Clean and Green columnist, Lynne Hart, who was recently honored for her volunteer efforts at the Tourism breakfast, submitted an article for her usual column in the paper, and it had to do with the national movement called “Couch to 5K.” Her sidekick, Leigh Patterson, who is married to Eric

Horse Whispering . . . . . . . 20 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Foreman's Forum . . . . . . . . 23

September 16 - October 6, 2016

Patterson, himself a trained running coach, were starting another round of the training in anticipation of the annual Keep Athens Limestone Beautiful fund raising 5K race known as the “Duck and Run.” Couch to 5K was held at the Athens Parks and Rec Center three times a week, and it began in the early part of the summer.

I had made a list of goals during my season of being ensconced on the couch, and one of them was to train for

and complete a 5K. Had I lost my ever-lovin’ mind? I am 62 years old! Who did I think I was? I began walking the 3.3 miles at the urging of my digital nag, the Fitbit, on a regular basis, and then I set out to begin my training. Leigh had told me that one of the best parts of the training was the community that emerged from “sweatin’ as an oldie,” and as someone who has been profiled by one psych testing group as a “Tribe Member,” I was ready to rock and roll.

Early in our training, I

mashed the daylights out of my toe. I think it’s a fair guess to say that I probably fractured it a bit, given how swollen, ugly and purple it was, and it looked like my nascent senior-citizen running career had been given the kibosh. Though I would stop by to say “Hi” to my fellow “Couchers,” I was put in the position of training on my own.

Enter an invention for which I have developed a keen affection: the rebounder.

Someone in our family had picked one up for a song at a yard sale, and I dragged it out into the living room.

I did most of my scheduled runs on it, and that circle of aluminum, springs and nylon mesh kept my dreams alive. The date for the run was inching closer, but the question was, “Would my toe and I be ready?” I decided to do a practice run in anticipation of what Coach Eric calls our “celebratory run,” and with literal fear in my heart, I signed up for and completed the 9/11 Heroes’ Run held at the Vets’ Muse-

um on September 10th. I did so with 300 of my “closest friends,” and I did it in 45:59.

I was feeling pretty fancy until an award was given to an 80 year old man who did it in 40 minutes flat! But the point is, the log jam of limiting beliefs got broken, and that was worth the price of a mashed toe, as well as weeks of running solo. I can check “5K” off my list now, and I have a sneaky suspicion that I might just become a 5K fool…we shall

see. All I know is that I want to express my thanks to Eric and Leigh as they cheered me on my way. My goal is to beat my time on Saturday the 17th, and my great hope is that I will be able to pay the whole thing forward real soon.

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

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All Things Soldier

Stripping Our Soldiers Of Their Spiritual Armor

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

I will be glad when the day comes that I can joyfully report that the religious freedoms of our military men and women have been fully restored, and are no longer in danger. Sometimes I feel like it is somehow the reverse equivalent of “crying wolf,” when column after column of All Things Soldier is dedicated to sounding the alarm. At the end of the day, though, I would rather be remembered as someone who would not relent, rather than someone who remained silent.

In yet another attack on our officers’ right to express themselves in prayer, and that in a timehonored tradition, we are kicking off the football season at West Point with Lucy tormenting Charlie Brown, as she does every

year.

Here is what happened. West Point has not had a stellar football season for a very long time, in fact, since 2010. On September 2, the Black Knights of West Point won against the Temple University Owls with a score of 28- 13.

They were ecstatic, and their coach, Jeff Moken, asked one of the other coaches to briefly lead the team in a prayer of thanksgiving. Lord knows there are a lot of those types of prayers that are launched heavenward here in Alabama the Beautiful every weekend in the fall, and for most of

us, that is as it should be.

All was well up North, or so it seemed, and someone filmed it and posted

Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)

$7

October 17th

11am - 1pm and 5pm-7pm

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

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it on the ubiquitous Facebook.

Well, wouldn’t you know, someone complained, the result being that the original Facebook posting was removed, and then reposted, with the brief sequence catching the group prayer having been edited out. Please remember that Temple University, the alma mater of Bill Cosby and Mark Levin, was started in 1888 by a Baptist minister, and I would imagine that on that campus they are fairly used to voluntary praying. I hope the complainant was not from Temple, but these days, you never know.

In an unfortunate demonstration of spinelessness, the West Point Commandant, Lt. General Robert L. Caslen said that while 90% supported the prayer, “…there were some concerns, and I think they’re valid concerns.” Con-

cerns? I’ll tell you what concerns me. We all know that the chances that God actually moved in favor of one team or another on the football field are probably pretty slim, but it never hurts to thank Him anyway. The problem is that our soldiers go into way more dangerous situations than a football stadium, and if you make their heartfelt spiritual expression of gratitude into a problem, you are going to, at the least, dent their armor and shield, and at the worst, strip it right off of them. Football players pray and celebrate, they always have. Soldiers pray and celebrate, they always have. Football soldiers who are training to be our nation’s finest officers pray and celebrate, they always have.

For God’s sake, and I do mean that literally and unashamedly, leave them alone!

September 16 - October 6, 2016

Special Feature

Damsel In Defense: Equip.Empower.Educate

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Angie Thomas honorably served our country as part of the U.S. Army during the era of Desert Storm, and her adventures included time in Saudi Arabia, which was an eye opener, with particular regard to the treatment of Saudi women. She met and married Richard Thomas, who also served in the Army and put in a full 20 years as an enlisted man. When 9/11 happened, their first child was only a few months old, and all of a sudden personal vulnerability and the ability to protect oneself took on a new meaning for both of them.

Angie’s dad was also retired military, and both her parents instilled in her a sense of situational awareness. She learned to change a tire in 5 minutes so she wouldn’t be stranded on the side of the road, and her mother taught her to never leave a beverage or a meal unfinished or unattended, even if she was out with friends. She learned to hold her keys between her fingers when she was approaching her car, and to walk with a purpose wherever she went.

All of this served her well,

but when she learned about a network marketing company called Damsel in Defense, she knew she had found her passion, and Richard knew it, too.

She did her “due diligence,” looked into the company, and says with confidence that Damsel is “the 2nd best career choice,” being handily won out by being a wife, mom, and grandmother.

Damsel in Defense was started 5 years ago by two young professional women by the name of Mindy Lin and Bethany Hughes, and the company’s mission is “to equip, empower and educate women to protect themselves and their families.” Their products are powerful, non-lethal, developed by experts in the field of self defense, and helpful for any woman, irrespective of their background. In this short time, Damsel in Defense has received the Direct Selling Association Rising Star Award, and they have also achieved the Standard for Trust accreditation with the Better Business Bureau. Mindy and Bethany are joined by their spouses as part of Damsel’s corporate team, along with other sea-

September 16 - October 6, 2016

Angie Thomas of Damsel In Defense soned professionals, and the company is headquartered in Boise, Idaho. They are busy moms and dads, and Damsel also is involved in faith-based efforts to rescue girls from sex trafficking, both here and abroad, through what is known as the Damsel House Project.

Their products are high quality, reasonably priced and wellpackaged, and include things such as pepper spray, stun guns (which require a separate security disable pin to activate them,) an auto emergency kit, striking tools for runners, a stun gun that looks like a camera, and more. Just the sound of the stun gun would be enough to make a wouldbe attacker think twice, and the jolt will most definitely put anyone on the ground, providing time to get away. I asked Angie if she had any personal testimonies as to the efficacy of Damsel products, and she said, “I heard from one of my customers, a college student, that it had worked and protected her from an assault by her own roommate.” “You

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can travel just about anywhere with them,” Richard told me, and Damsel products are described as being “Security on the Go.” Angie added that she feels so much better having their teen-aged daughter equipped to protect herself in a firm and non-lethal manner when she is away from home.

The Thomas’ daughter is part of Angie’s Damsel team, something about which Angie is both proud and happy.

Other Damsel in Defense products include Digital Defense, which protects against online preditors; Safe Hearts, which teaches young children personal safety with strangers and how to resist negative peer pressure; and the Daphne Concealed Collection, handbags, clutches and more to keep your personal protection tools out of sight. “Fashion has never felt so safe,” is the tagline for the Daphne lines.

Damsel in Defense also offers a business opportunity, and Angie is in the process of expanding her team. During the

month of September, which is the company’s anniversary, the fee to become a distributor is $99, and Angie said, “You will receive $330 worth of product,” generous by any measure.

I asked her, “Do guys ever become reps?” She answered, “Oh, yes, they have their own tag line called ‘Men Behind The Mission’.” Men are a critical part of Damsel’s founding as well as their success. The company’s promise is, “We’ve got your back.

For life,” providing a life time warranty on all products against manufacturer’s defect.

If you are interested in either purchasing a product, hosting a presentation, or joining Angie’s team, you can contact her at 256-652-0187, at amrthms@gmail.com, or at mydamselpro.net/Thomas.

Whatever you choose, you’ll be glad you decided to become a part of what is becoming known as “the Damsel Movement.”

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Calendar of Events POW/MIA Ceremony Sep 16th

on hand with books and works of art. More information... https:// mooresville-mercantile-llc.myshopify.com

Alabama Veterans Museum & Archives, 100 West Pryor Street, Athens, AL. Join the Veterans Museum and area Veterans' for a ceremony honoring the Prisoners-of-War and Missing-In-Action at 11AM.

Family Resource Center Training Seminar Sep 16th

Training Seminar (4 CEU Hours). Treating the Spiritual Malady/ Ethical Integrity 8am to 12:30pm. Pre-register by 8/26: $20; after/at door: $25. Refreshments / registration begins at 7:30 am. Hosted by ALC Family Resource Center. Event Location: Rodgers Center, 112 S Jefferson St., Athens, AL 35611. Contact Tina Cook: alcfamilyrc@gmail.com or 256-230-0880 for more details / information.

4th Annual Foundation for Mental Health Golf Tournament Sep 22nd

Canebrake Golf Course, 23015 Founders Circle, Athens, AL. Registration starts at 11:30AM with Lunch at 12:00PM with start at 1:00PM. $150 per person or $600 per foursome team.

For more information Suzanne Linnemann at 256-497-6044 SuzanneLinnemann@charter.net or Bill Giguere 256-260-7325 BGiguere@mhcnca.org Pay online at www.mhcnca.org

Fall Fling Vendor Affair Sep 24th

Vietnam Veterans of America, 17915 W Elm St, Athens. 9am4pm. Free Admission!! Come shop local vendors. Can Food Drive for local churches. Collecting at the door! See all the handmade crafts, small business owners and direct sales vendors! Bring a canned food donation and receive an entry into drawing for $50 shopping certificate!

ACT/SAT Prep Classes Sep 24th, Oct 1, 8 & 15

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

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

Fall Gathering at Mooresville Mercantile Sep 24th

Mooresville Mercantile, 5081 Mooresville Road, Mooresville, AL. Nestled under the trees of the grounds of Mooresville Mercantile will be a variety of artisan makers and goods welcoming Fall to the Tennessee Valley. Fame folk artist Rebekah L. Smith will be Page 6

Bowl for Kids' Sake Sep 25th

Plamor Lanes, 2404 Leeman Ferry Road, Huntsville, AL. Take to the lanes and help Big Brothers - Big Sisters of North Alabama to achieve its mission of mentoring children ages 6-18 throughout North Alabama. Teams fundraising goal is $200. Choose to bowl from 12:00PM-2:00PM or 2:30PM-4:30PM. To register: www. bbbsna.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=1163696

Apple Annie 5K Oct 1st

Athens, AL. Join the Athena League for this charity 5K benefiting Camp Hope and Athens City Schools Foundation starting in downtown Athens on the Square. There will be a family fun zone located near the finishing line from 7:00AM-10:00AM that includes games, face painting, food, music and more. For more information or to register: appleannie5k.itsyourrace.com/event. aspx?id=3140

Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby Oct 8th

Big Spring Memorial Park, Athens, AL. This fun rubber duck race is a fundraiser for Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful with a GRAND PRIZE of $1,000 sponsored by Limestone Farmer's Cooperative. Lots of valuable prizes are being added to our list including gift certificates, cash, and MORE. Ducks can be adopted at the KALB office, at KALB's tent at local events, or online.

For information and online adoption visit kalbcares.com/2015wacky-quacky-ducky-derby/ or call 256-233-8000.

Yoga at the Gulf Oct 9th

Newby Gulf Station, 125 East Street, Athens, AL. Don't run out of gas. Come to the Gulf. This is a public yoga event hosted by Delisa Simpson Yoga from 6:00PM-7:00PM and all are welcomed.

Donations are encouraged.

2nd Annual Militaria Show Oct 14th & 15th

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

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September 16 - October 6, 2016

Special Feature

Charlie Wallace: Coaching You Through Every Season Of Life

by Ali Elizabeth Turner “Tell me what brought you to seek a life coach.”

Is how my first coaching session began. I had been thinking about hiring a life coach for certain places where I am “stuck,” and when Charlie Wallace approached me about some advertising, I decided to find out what she does. I have a garage that is a hot mess, and despite herculean efforts to deal with the stuff, I have made very little progress over the long haul. We set an appointment and Charlie and I sat down to develop a strategy to tame my garage clutter.

Before our session, I asked Charlie how she got involved with life coaching. “A friend whom I had been watching coach for a couple of years had asked ‘If you could do absolutely anything, what would it be?’

I knew instantly that I wanted to somehow be a life coach and help people like she does!” She helped me find a certification program, which I

completed, and now I’m certified, am in business (more of a calling, really), and love what I do!”

manageable steps to accomplish their goals.

I also teach clients the decision making process. I honestly want my clients to outgrow their need for me!”

I asked her what has been the biggest change that has occurred in her life since she received her certification, and she said, “Confidence.

I walk in a level of healthy confidence that I have never experienced, and love being able to help someone else experience that, too. I enjoy watching people grow and transition through the seasons of life.”

Every season of life has its own challenges, whether it’s learning to rest in winter in preparation for spring growth, or figuring out how to distribute the fall harvest most effectively. Sometimes we all need help to get through a season – not because we are weak or ineffective – but because we haven’t been taught how. The rough seasons can seem overwhelming!

Sometimes we all want someone who has been through similar strug-

September 16 - October 6, 2016

Charlie Wallace gles to come alongside and show us how to get through.

Charlie has been through her share of seasons and brings those experiences to the aid of her clients.

She served in the US Air Force, has lived internationally, transitioned from a stay at home mom to being a struggling single mom, dealt with an

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addict spouse, worked through a recovery program to heal from her past, and believes that it all helped shape the coach that she is today.

She has been taught how to use the decision making process to navigate her own life seasons and is able to assist others in navigating theirs as well.

I wanted to know: what is different between a coach and a counselor?

According to Charlie, counseling is mainly focused on healing from the past or from an issue, while coaching takes a client who is healthy and is looking to move into a different season of life, or to move past a particular obstacle (my garage).

Charlie went on to tell me that, “Sessions are client driven, and coach led. My job is to listen and guide the client to develop realistic and

Although each client is unique, the process is the same for each… whether they are a parent overwhelmed with kid clutter and desiring a clean home, or a Fortune 500 CEO wanting to change the direction of their company. Identify the issue, develop a plan, break the plan into steps, and get busy. It is also important to have accountability, which a coach provides.

During our session, Charlie was the consummate professional, asked excellent questions, was kind but firm, and kept good boundaries. What especially impressed me was her creativity when it came to giving helpful suggestions for managing my goals with regard to crushing the clutter. I am on track, sticking to my daily goals, being accountable to Charlie, and it feels good. If you are interested in moving forward, no matter what the season in which you find yourself, than I highly recommend you contact Charlie. Let her help you walk in the freedom that has been given to you.

Charlie Wallace, Certified Life Coach 256-374-4598

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September 16 - October 6, 2016

The Millennial Mind

How The Mighty Fall

by Rosemary Dewar The greatest certainty man has attempted to avoid, aside from taxes, is death.

Without realizing it, most death kills slowly as a result of self-destructive behavior. When one consistently pursues temporary gratification over long-term discipline, the person perishes little by little with every poor decision. In the movie, The Matrix, the character Mouse states, “To deny our own impulses is to deny the very thing that makes us human.” However, there are natural impulses that ought to be resisted. A culture that yields to and enshrines impulsiveness, instead of restraint, will simply lay waste to its people.

The clearest indication of whether the culture is decaying or thriving is its art.

The contrast can be seen in the art of the Dark Ages and the birth of the Renaissance.What a culture hears, watches, speaks, reads, and wears is a gauge for the level at which a society is embracing death. Many times throughout the centuries, there has been a resurgence of the gothic styling of romance, death, gloom, and high tension in art. Most recently, fictional gothic figures have made a prominent reappearance in American culture. Entertainment has made seemingly tempting depictions of vampires, werewolves, witches, zombies, and ghosts. They all give the kiss of betrayal to humanity. Each characterization requires the surrender to harmful impulses that cause the death of man in order to become one of them. Once they are mal-

conscience, imperious, relentless, and cruel." What a heinous notion. It is entirely opposed to what the prophet Micah in the Bible asserts, “He has shown you, oh man, what is good, and what the Lord demands of you; but to do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”

formed, a blood lust manifests. The rest of man is to become unceremoniously sacrificed to an insatiable being for its hedonism to be sustained.

This is what happens to a culture that feels it is close to the edge of collapse. Society either minimizes the threat, or braces itself for impact.

Now, more than ever, one can see society preparing for the apocalypse. Similar to the panic of ‘Y2K’, western culture is sensing doom, but it doesn’t look the same. The crisis is not technological; it is moral. The left indulges the damage caused by nihilistic behavior. The last fifty years of leftist policies have struck at the heart of America’s core: private ownership, capitalism, freedom of religion, preservation of Godgiven rights, self-determination, and protection from tyranny. A seemingly innocuous bolstering of fascistic regulations with regard toward any one of these American principles ultimately falls prey to socialism, communism, and totalitarianism.

is commanded to obey the principles that preserve life.

Deviation results in discipline by principle. If a culture is permitted to completely disregard its pursuit of meaning, it eventually ceases to exist. The Roman Empire fell due to its overindulgence of pleasure. The fictional film, The Gladiator, conveyed it is this way: Senator: “I think he [the Emperor] knows what Rome is.

Rome is the mob. Conjure magic for them and they'll be distracted. Take away their freedom and still they'll roar.

The beating heart of Rome is

not the marble of the Senate; it's the sand of the Coliseum.

He'll bring them death - and they will love him for it.”

Other, would-be empires of the 20thcentury were no different. Adolf Hitler wanted to build a master race while simultaneously murdering 11 million people. Joseph Stalin abandoned God to justify the murder of approximately 50 million people.

Mao Tse-Tung banned God and murdered 45 million people within 4 years.

Adolf Hitler declared, "I want to raise a generation of young people devoid of a

The left continues to think that man will only preserve itself in the face of catastrophe. They fear what they can’t expect of themselves.

America’s thriving culture challenges one’s self-satisfaction if it comes at the expense of someone else’s liberty. Once one’s freedom is violated, those in the surrounding culture are affected by a diminished ability to thrive. To demand pleasure at the expense of liberty is a leisurely death of the pursuit of happiness.

When a society or a government is willing to deny itself the pleasure of power to keep its citizens free, it will thrive. Should a government become drunk on the power it permits itself, it eventually drinks itself to death.

Judeo-Christian philosophy asserts its plea to value and prolong man’s life. Man

September 16 - October 6, 2016

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Page 9

From the Alabama Veterans’ Museum

Coffee Call at the Veterans Museum

by Sandra Thompson, Director, Alabama Veterans’ Museum

I am sure that when Billy Duncan started “Coffee Call” he never imagined it would turn into one of the best events the museum would host. I think sometimes because we are so close to it we forget what a special gathering it truly is. I guess it takes an outsider’s point of view to bring it back home. The museum received this very special letter last week pertaining to coffee call, it was so touching that I just had to share it with everyone. Thank you all for your continued support of the museum and for your outstanding support of our monthly Coffee Call because we could not do it without our sponsors and

all of the awesome people that attend monthly! Here is the letter in its entirety.

Several weeks ago my old friend and fellow worker in the military forces extended me an invitation to attend “Coffee Call”.

Retired Alabama State

CSM Cecil D. Monk and I have known each other since He was a Sergeant First Class and I was a Private in 1967. I went to work for Him in the COMMO Section of the HHC 1343d Engineer Battalion (Cbt), later in the S3, and finally in the Maintenance Section of the same unit.

Coffee Call is held the first Saturday of each month at the Veterans Museum in Athens, Alabama. It is sponsored by individuals and groups of the community to honor individuals who have been members of the United States Armed Forces. The event includes breakfast served “chow Line” style; the entire community is invited to attend, no charge, donations appreciated.

Until CSM Monk mentioned it I wasn’t aware such an event takes place.

I accepted the invitation.

This month’s Coffee Call was sponsored by Kristi Valls and CSM Monk.

While I have not attended a Coffee Call I have visited the museum. It is a wonderful place, filled with hundreds if not thousands of items used by our Armed Forces Members over the last century. It is

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also a place dedicated to the members of the community and our nation who worked as members of our Armed Forces.

Many of whom have labored so long and hard that we enjoy the freedom and liberty of this great country.

For a small town such as Athens on a holiday weekend the event was well attended. There were 130+ folks joining in fellowship and remembrance. A son of my father’s first cousin who is lifelong resident of Athens, Jerry Crabtree, is President of the Museum and brought the Call to Order. As the National Anthem played Jerry lead us in the presentation of the Flag. After the Anthem finished, Taps was played to honor our deceased comrades. Then Jerry invited the Chaplin to offer prayer which He did. Jerry then announced it time to “fall in” to the chow line and enjoy a breakfast of sausage, biscuits, gravy, grits, assorted sweet rolls, OJ, and of course coffee.

The meal was tasty, and the fellowship of seeing old friends was very nice.

It was a very humbling experience to rise, come

to attention and render a hand salute as the Anthem played and the Flag was presented, Taps honored our recent and long dead comrades to whom we owe such a debt of gratitude.

What an honor to stand among men and women of all stripes and pay homage, honor, and respect to our country and each other. I looked out over that crowed and saw people of our community who get up every morning, go to work, contribute to improve and sustain their community, set positive moral examples for our youth, love and care for their parents, wives, husbands, children, and the way of life we enjoy. Many of whom have done so by membership in our Nations Armed Forces. Yes, that group was just a small slice of Americana: just plain, old, ordinary, everyday, garden variety Americans. So, what is so special about them?

EVERYTHING! Thank you again, and please join us the first Saturday of each month for a little food and lots of fellowship!

September 16 - October 6, 2016

September 16 - October 6, 2016

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Page 11

Clean and Green

Rubber Ducks Will Race To Support Our Local Environment

by Lynne Hart This is the 16th year for KALB's Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby fundraiser!

The 2016 derby will be held on October 8th, 4:00 p.m., at Big Spring Memorial Park in Athens.

Our first duck race in 2001 promised a cash grand prize.

The event and our sponsor base have grown and this year we offer the Limestone Farmers Cooperative $1,000 Grand Prize plus 30 additional valuable prizes!

All prizes have been donated, so all proceeds from duck

adoptions go directly to support the KALB organization.

This race is lots of fun for those who come to watch it; however, you do not have to be present to win. For KALB, this fundraiser is necessary to obtain the funds which allow us to offer quality education, projects and programs.

How the Race Works For a $5 donation to KALB, a specially-designed rubber racing duck will be placed in our Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby in your name.

L to R - Amy Wright, Lawn & Garden Specialist and Spokesperson for the Limestone Farmers Cooperative; Blair Shook, Store Manager. The Limestone Farmers Cooperative has sponsored the $1,000 Grand Prize again this year.

LIST OF PRIZES • $1,000 Grand Prize • 4 Disney World 1-Day Park Hopper Passes ($620 value) • Canebrake Golf Package for 4 + Cart ($340+ value) • $250 Osborne’s Jewelers Gift Card • $100 Hobbs Jewelers Gift Car • $100 Publix Gift Card • $100 Cash - Distinctive Landscaping, Inc. • $100 Cash - Morell Engineering, Inc. • $100 Cash - Alabama Farm Credit • $100 Cash - Limestone Drug • $100 Cash - American Leakless Co. • $100 Cash - Eddy J. Burks, CPA • $100 Cash - First National Bank • One Night Stay - Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa • Cut, Style, Eyebrow Wax and Paul Mitchell Products Sandee Kranz, New Beginnings Salon • Cut, Blow Dry, Eyebrow Wax and Redkin Products Cindy McCurry, New Beginnings Salon • 2 Admission Tickets to Dollywood • $100 Eastside Pharmacy Gift Certificate • Theatre Huntsville Flex Tickets for 4 • Theatre Huntsville Flex Tickets for 2 • Birmingham Zoo Family Pack • Maggie Moo's Ice Cream for a Year • Cinemark/Monaco Theatre Movie Passes • $75 Cash - Snap-On, Inc. • $50 Cash - EFI Automotive • $50 Cash - American Leakless Co. • $50 Gift Certificate - Eastside Pharmacy • 2 - $50 Reseda Nursery Gift Certificates • Space & Rocket Center Admission for 2 (includes IMAX) • Free Oil Change - Express Oil Change

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We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about the KALB organization, our programs, and the many volunteer opportunities we offer.

How to Adopt Ducks Ducks can be adopted at the following locations:

L to R: Emma Browning, Assistant Manager; and Emily Brown, Manager of the Athens Papa Murphy's Pizza. Papa Murphy's is offering a 50% off entire order coupon to everyone adopting a Papa Murphy's Quack Pack of rubber ducks for the duck derby.

For a $25 donation, you will receive a Papa Murphy's Quack Pack which includes 6 ducks and a coupon for 50% off your entire order at any Papa Murphy's Pizza.

The ducks will be raced in up to 4 heats (depending on number of ducks adopted). The winners of each heat will be raced in the Championship Race to determine the winners of the Limestone Farmers Cooperative $1,000 Grand Prize and all other listed prizes. The order in which the ducks come through the duck trap determines the prize won. The total number of winning ducks will be determined by the number of prizes on race day.

KALB Touches Everyone in Limestone County KALB programs touch every resident in Limestone County

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in one way or another. We provide environmental education programs in city, county, and private school classrooms; support other organizations with clean and green outdoor events; oversee the Adopt-ASpot program; provide recycling opportunities; host the annual Earth Day & Outdoor EXPO and Elk River Cleanup; and so much more.

•KALB office at 125 East Street in Athens •Old Time Fiddlers Convention at Athens State University on Friday October 7th and until 1:00 p.m. Saturday October 8th (KALB tent is next to Information Tent) •Use the QR Code on this page for information or to adopt ducks online

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

September 16 - October 6, 2016

Cooking with Shelley

Everything But The Kitchen Sink

by Shelley Underhill

“Everything but the kitchen sink!” Some of you that are my age or older should remember that saying. Well, that’s what’s in this mix. I call it my version of Chex Mix. If you've ever wondered what to do with all those bags and boxes of open stuff that really need a home, I have the cure for you, and it’s really good—sweet, sour, crunchy, salty, and even cheesy! You will have them coming back for more. There is really no recipe or measuring for this concoction. Enjoy!

Everything But The Kitchen Sink Recipe?

Whatever ya got!

Email your questions to shellysdesk@gmail.com.

September 16 - October 6, 2016

www.athensnowal.com

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Health and Fitness

Arthritis Got You Down?

by Janet Hunt

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

According to the Arthritis Foundation, more than 50 million adults have been diagnosed with arthritis. Hot weather may cause arthritis symptoms to flare up. In addition, increased joint pain may be triggered by swelling or dehydration.

The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis affects the whole body and often causes fatigue and visible swelling. Osteoarthritis is often isolated with a particular joint or area of the body. The affected areas may hurt but are not always swollen.

Morning stiffness can be a problem with both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, but can last longer for rheumatoid arthritis. Getting up and moving in the morning can be a challenge especially when the body is dehydrated and dreading another hot summer day.

Exercise can be unappealing to someone with arthritis, but research suggests that exercise, along with drinking plenty of water, is one of the best natural remedies for stiff joints. Of course, always check with your doctor before starting any new exercise program.

Below are a few things you can do to help get yourself out of bed and moving each day. First drink 8 to 16 ounces of water when you first wake. Water will trigger lubrication of the joint and reduce inflammation. Then add the

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following moves to circulate your joints’ lubricant to further reduce discomfort or pain: •Wrist Circles.

Move wrists in all four directions (up, down, side, side) then open and close the palms by extending the fingers 5 to 10 times.

•Knee Rolls. While lying on your back, bend knees and roll from side to side until the spine starts to feel more flexible.

•Ankle Rolls. Lift one leg and circle foot in both directions, point and flex.

•Shoulder Rolls. Sit up and roll the shoulders forward and in reverse.

Bring shoulders up to the ears and down a few times. Take a few deep breaths to stretch the chest cavity.

•Hip Circles. Stand and do an imaginary hulahoop in both directions.

•March. Get the blood circulating by marching slowly in place for 30 to 60 seconds.

matoid arthritis, contact Janet Hunt at 256-6143530 or visit one of her classes at the Athens Senior Center, East Lime-

stone Senior Center, Round Island Baptist Church or a water class at the Athens Limestone Wellness Center.

Now that the body is out of bed, keep moving! Get outside for a walk while the temperature is cooler or attend a low impact exercise class. Research shows that movement reduces arthritis symptoms and doesn’t cause harm.

But if there is any sharp or stabbing pain in the joints, see a doctor.

If walking or a land exercise class such as Silver Sneakers does not appeal to you, get in the water.

You can swim laps or join a water fitness class.

For more information regarding exercises for osteoarthritis and rheu-

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September 16 - October 6, 2016

Cover Story

50th Fiddlers Convention Set For October 6-8

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

the Sons of the Pioneers, Gene Autry, and Roy Rogers, reviving and revitalizing the Western musical field. Remaining true to the integrity of that genre of music, they have become modern-day icons by branding a group with their own legendary humor and wit.

Norman Blake, with Nancy Blake and James Bryan, will also be performing on

continued from page 1

competitions will be held on the Alabama Farmers Cooperative Main Stage in front of Founders Hall and other locations throughout the campus.

Over $18,000 in prize money will be awarded, and on Thursday evening there will be some additional special events added in honor of the golden anniversary.

The convention is sponsored annually by the Athens State University Foundation and the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce. Proceeds from the convention fund student scholarships and other university projects.

The convention has historically attracted more than 15,000 people for the Friday and Saturday competitions, with more than 200 musicians participating. There are 20 different categories, including several fiddle and guitar categories, harmonica, mandolin, bluegrass banjo, dobro, dulcimer, old time singing, banjo, and buck dancing.

The Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention is the home to the Alabama State Fiddle Champion competition.

The festival is also hosts other Alabama State Champion categories including Harmonica, Bluegrass Banjo, Dulcimer, Old-Time Banjo, Classic Old-Time Fiddler, Buck Dancing, Mandolin, Dobro, Old-Time Singing, Guitar - Finger Picking, Guitar - Flat Picking, Bluegrass Band, and Bluegrass Old-Time Band. The winners in all of these categories shall for that year be known as the Alabama State Champions respectively.

Mark Ralph was named “Fiddle Champion” at last

Bobby Osborne & Rocky Top X-Press year’s convention. He won the “fiddle off,” which now pits the top fiddlers from the junior, intermediate, and senior divisions. This year’s fiddle champ will earn a total of $1,200 in cash as well as a trophy.

On Thursday evening, October 6, there will be an unveiling of the fiddler

Norman Blake

This year's special guests at the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention will be Riders in the Sky, performing on the Alabama Farmers Cooperative Main Stage on Friday, October 7 at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. For over thirty years, Riders in the Sky have been keepers of the flame passed on by

the Alabama Farmers Cooperative Main Stage on Saturday, October 8 at 5 p.m. Blake is an American instrumentalist, vocalist, and songwriter. In a career spanning more than 60 years, Blake has played in a number of folk and country groups.

He is considered one of the leading figures in the bluegrass revival of the 1970s and is still active sculpture in the courtyard behind Founders Hall at 5:30 p.m., followed by a dedication of the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention Memorial Room located in the lower level of McCandless Hall at 6 p.m. At 7 p.m.

Bobby Osborne & the Rocky Top X-Press take the stage in McCandless Hall for a special anniversary concert. All Thursday evening events are free and open to the public.

September 16 - October 6, 2016

today, playing concert dates and making albums with his wife, Nancy.

Approximately 150 booths featuring old-fashioned arts and crafts are part of the convention.

Convention goers will see everything from traditional artwork to coalfired metal works. Food vendors will also be on hand to provide anything from a quick snack to a

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full meal. Contests begin Friday, October 7 at 7 p.m. following the Riders in the Sky performance and resume on Saturday, October 8 at 8:30 a.m.

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

The festival culminates on Saturday night with the naming of the Alabama State Fiddle Champion. Being named Champion is highly competitive and is a coveted prize. Come and join us for this golden anniversary celebration of one of the highlights of festival season in Athens, AL, and for more information visit http://www.athens. edu/fiddlers.

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The View From The Bridge

The Cover Up!

by Jackie Warner

Jackie Warner

Community Outreach “Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters

Recently, I was getting ready to hang out with a friend and was taking a moment to pick out my wardrobe. As I decided on what I would wear, thoughts from my friend entered my mind. I recalled a few months ago she had said to me in a serious but caring tone to stop layering my outfits. She basically told me to stop hiding behind my clothing. I thought about what she said, and true enough, I was again picking out an outfit that I was going to layer with a jacket or another blouse, covering myself up. I could still hear her saying stop covering up and be who you are.

This really got me to thinking about life and how at each stage in our life, we add layer on top of layer. We layer so much, we lose sight of who we really are. We get lost in chaos, people, things and life events; we take on so much that we seldom get to experience the life that was truly meant to be, the life we were born to inhabit.

In order for us to get to who we are and begin to enjoy life, we must shed (purge) ourselves of the layers that keep us from our core, which is where we will find our real, authentic self. We cover up using all sorts of stuff, whether it is clothes, make-up, accessories, people, or things

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and then after a deep look in the mirror, the result is hazy. Until we are determined to identify and then release those cover ups, we neglect the authentic self - yeah, the real you and me.

cover ourselves and live our lives with authenticity. - Barbara de Angelis

Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional

Retreat, Release, and Simplify to Self-transparency!

Jackie Warner, Community Outreach Specialist

Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com Check out upcoming events: http://thebridgeus.yolasite.com/

I leave you with quotes for uncovering and removing those layers that so deeply encompass us: •This above all: To thine own self be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man. Hamlet, Shakespeare •That inner voice has both gentleness and clarity. So to get to authenticity, you really keep going down to the bone, to the honesty, and the inevitability of something.

- Meredith Monk •The closer you stay to emotional authenticity and people, character authenticity, the less you can go wrong. - David O. Russell •The authentic self is soul made visible. Sarah Ban Breathnach •Everything will line up perfectly when knowing and living the truth becomes more important than looking good. - Alan Cohen •We need to find the courage to say NO to the things and people that are not serving us if we want to redis-

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September 16 - October 6, 2016

Cover Story

Roger’s Studio: Closing But Not Quitting, And Following Through On a Promise To Vicki

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

Bedingfield and his late wife, Vicki, several generations of families in the Tennessee Valley have found the comfy studio on Washington Street to be the perfect site for all their portrait needs.

Roger and Vicki opened up shop in 1984, however, there is much more to the story than just “hometown boy makes good.” Roger was born and raised in the area, having graduated from Tanner High in 1970. He had planned on a career as an architect, but realized that designing buildings wasn’t his true calling, but “designing memories” and capturing them on film was. Serendipitously, in 1972 he went to work for Olan Mills studios, spent a year there, worked for B&R Studios in Scottsboro, and then went into business for himself in 1980. For several years he travelled to various stores in North Alabama and took pictures of children. After opening the studio in Athens, was able to slowly phase out being on the road. He and Vicki built the business, raised their family, became grandparents, active in the community, and were by all accounts, “living the dream.” Then, disaster struck: Vicki was diagnosed with cancer, fought a long

and brave battle against it, and died at their home in August with Roger at her side.

Roger and his daughters have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love in the aftermath of Vicki’s passing, and wanted to express their deepest thanks to our community.

Roger feels the same with regard to the big change that he is announcing. He is closing the studio, but not the business,

tinually upgrading the shop’s level of service as well as professionalism, Roger and Vicki would attend trade shows all over the country. At one such show, they learned about a brand new technology called “Live Portraits.” Interestingly, Vicki was not someone who had a great love for computers, social media, or technology in general, but when they saw how “Live Portraits” worked, she made Roger promise that

Vicki Bedingfield L-R: Whitney Reinhart, Carson Wakefield and Vicki Bedingfield and he wants to thank literally more than eight thousand clients for their loyal patronage.

This leads to two of the goals of this article: to invite people to make an appointment to come and get their negatives and to tell you about a promise he made to Vicki.

Over the years, as part of con-

September 16 - October 6, 2016

no matter what happened to her, he would add this service to his business.

He is making good on his promise, and Roger’s is the first studio in the country to make it available for general consumption. He gave me a demonstration, and it was amazing.

You can have a professionally photographed portrait which is beautiful in its own right, but when you hold your smart phone up to it, the portrait will play a video on your phone of the person in it, literally bringing it to life. You do this by downloading an app to your smart phone, hold the lens side of your phone up to the portrait, click the app button, and prepare to be wowed. By way of illustration, after you download the Live Portrait app, if you hold your smart phone up to the front cover illustration of Roger in this edition of Athens Now, he actually talk to you via a pre-recorded video!

This technology has been used with business cards, resumés, Christmas cards, political materials, engagement announce-

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ments, baby announcements, just to name a few, and the list of potential applications is endless. He is partnering with North Alabama videographer Craig Shamwell to make Live Portraits available, and is excited about adding this service to his photographic tool kit. Roger is still going to do weddings, outdoor sessions, yearbooks, fire department shoots, daycare shoots - basically anything that doesn’t demand a studio setting.

“I am moving into a space that is about 1/5th the size of the studio, and need to have folks come and get their negatives, if they want them,” he said.

The move is unusual, as most studios retain permanent rights to all negatives and files. By contrast, Roger is fully releasing ownership and is charging only $35 per session. This will be on a sliding scale depending on the numbers of sessions ordered, which doesn’t even cover the cost of retrieving them and getting them to the client. He hopes to have the job completed by the end of 2016.

If you want those negatives, you need to call soon to make an appointment to get them.

Currently, Roger’s is open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10am to 5pm.

He is also going to have an auction of all the props he and Vicki collected over the years in November, so be on the lookout for that announcement. We finished our time talking about this huge transition, and he said with a wistful smile, “I have never gone to work, I always played.” He then added, “Vicki always decorated the windows each season.”

The portrait of Vicki shown in this article is still on display in the window, and will be until the shop closes. But remember, Roger is not quitting, he’s just closing, and more importantly, he’s following through on a promise.

Roger’s Portraits

115 W. Washington Street Athens, AL 35611 Phone: 256-233-4443 Cell: 256-431-6332 www.rogersportraits.com rogersportrait@bellsouth.net (no “s” on portrait)

Facebook: Roger Bedingfield/ Rogers Portraits

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Learning As A Lifestyle

The Blacksmiths And The Bible Scholar

by Wanda Campbell

Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm, each session. The fee is $5 per session. The textbook is available at the Athens State Bookstore.

September is always a busy month at the Center for Lifelong Learning. We have just published our fall catalog with the course offerings for the rest of the year. If you did not get a catalog, you can stop by the Center, located at 121 South Marion Street, in Athens.

This fall we offer Blacksmith Classes taught

by Travis Fleming and Al Stephens. Classes are offered on Saturdays – September 17, October 8, and November 5. Sign Language will start on September 20, and the Lunch and Learn Series: Caring for Older Adults will start on September 28.

And this is just the beginning of the offerings.

For those who can’t make it to class but want

Al Stephens (left) and Travis Fleming (right) to continue their education, we offer over 300 professional development and leisure courses

online, everything from accounting to languages is available. You can check out our website at www.athens.edu/cll - then, click on Online Learning. One of the newest courses to add to the online learning library is Microsoft Excel – Pivot Tables. Most organizations rely heavily on Microsoft Excel Pivot Tables to analyze and report financial information. Your company is probably no exception.

With this course, you can impress your coworkers by learning how to create functional and eye-catching interactive dashboards using a combination of Pivot Tables, Pivot Charts, and Slicers.

This fall we have also partnered with the Cole-

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This course is a nondenominational academic study that will guide students in the understanding of methods commonly used by biblical scholars in the study of the Bible.

The methods will focus on historical, literary, and reader-oriented aspects of biblical interpretation.

Everyone is welcome to come to the discussions each month. Those students who attend six sessions will receive a certificate of completion.

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Dr. Tony L Moyers man Center for Religious Studies and Ethics to offer a Bible Studies Certificate Course. Using the book, Reading Responsibly: A Guide to Biblical Interpretation, this course will focus the methods and ethics of interpretation.

Dr. Tony Moyers, author of the book, will lead the discussion. Classes are scheduled the first Tuesday of the month and will continue from October 4, 2016 through April 4, 2017. Class is held at the Center for Lifelong Learning from

For those of you who don’t know him, Dr. Tony L. Moyers is a professor of religion and philosophy at Athens State University.

He is the department chair of the humanities and social sciences. He received his Ph.D. in Biblical studies from Baylor University, in Waco, Texas. Dr. Moyers did additional graduate work at Vanderbilt University and is also the author of The Moral Life: Obligation and Affirmation.

We hope to see you at one of our classes or on one of our trips. We are going to New Orleans in March 2017 and would love for you to travel with us. Information is available on the website or stop by to get a brochure.

September 16 - October 6, 2016

What Makes Ronnie Roll

The Awakening Of H.K. Derryberry

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Over the years, it has been common for Mayor Ronnie to be enthralled with a book, share it with me, let it inspire me, and the result has been a series of articles on any number of topics for this column. I for one am a citizen that is glad that we have a voracious reader for a mayor, and one who is determined to be a lifelong learner.

However, I don’t think I have ever seen him as excited as he was the day he received by surprise an autographed copy of a book entitled The Awakening of H.K. Derryberry: My Unlikely Friendship With The Boy Who Remembers Everything. It is written by Athens High School graduate Jimmy Bradford, and I hope it becomes as much of a classic as The Miracle Worker, or Radio.

Jimmy and Ronnie have known each other for over 50 years, and a few years ago, through their friendship, Ronnie became aware of the young man simply named “H.K.” The child was born blind, has cerebral palsy, is paralyzed on one side, and has been diagnosed as being one of six people on earth to have what is known as HSAM, or Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory. In a word, H.K. remembers everything.

It is as though his mind is a security camera that never runs out of tape and goes on forever. He

the ladies who worked at City Hall would get a raise.” We both laughed.

While Mayor Ronnie worked on the budget, I read the first 25 pages of the book, and I am hooked. Here is how Jimmy Bradford describes his first encounter with H.K: “Like a pick-pocket honing his stealthy craft among the gawking tourists of Nashville’s down-town honky-tonks, H.K. Derryberry had committed the perfect crime: he stole my heart.”

Former Alabama coach Gene Stallings calls it a “must read.” Country music legend Allen

just “backs it up,” and tells you with precision what happened, and the amount of time elapsed since the event is of no consequence. Through a series of what can only be fairly described as providential events, H.K. and Jim became friends when H.K. was nine years old. He is now in his mid-20s, has gone on to become a highly successful speaker, and has spoken here in Athens at Central Church of Christ on more than one occasion.

September 16 - October 6, 2016

Jackson’s endorsement on the back cover says, “This heart-warming story will change you for good.” H.K. and Jimmy changed each other for good, that’s for sure, and the ripple effect is far-reaching. H.K. has gone on to graduate from school, is the only known Braille user who can navigate the system with just one hand, and has no sense of being limited. Mayor Ronnie and I talked for quite a while about what a blessing the book and the lives of these two are for Athens, and then we prayed, for it was time for Ronnie to roll.

Mayor Ronnie has a treasure, and it is a letter he received from H.K., written in Braille by the use of H.K.’s one good hand. Most of the time it is visible in Ronnie’s office, and it reminds him that with God’s help and determination, disabilities can be turned into strengths.

“I invited him here a couple of years ago,” said the mayor, “and made him Mayor for a Day. He sat in my chair and decided that he would make sure that all

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Page 19

Horse Whispering

Bite Me

by Deb Kitchenmaster Have you asked, “What is this?” “How could this happen?” “What do you think happened?” “Isn’t this interesting?” “Who would have thought?”

ly. The following thirty days I successfully spent time with her to remove the edge from this traumatic experience. So in figuring out what was going on with these lumps on this horse, her history came to my mind.

As we journey in life and journey on our horse trails, these questions do arise from time to time.

Recently, we had a horse struggling to walk. Her front right leg was incredibly tender. There wasn’t any noticeable injury after examining her leg, hoof, frog, heel and shoulder. I gathered my sprays and oils to B.E.S.T. (Bio-Energetic-Synchronization-Technique) this crippled mare. She had a lump on her right side of her neck under her beautiful long mane and “lo and behold,” she had a huge lump on the left side of her neck. Were these hard lumps affecting her ability to walk?

How could this be? It was at this time two things “kicked” in for me: #1 history, and #2, memories.

As a young curious filly, this horse stuck her head through two bars of a twelve foot metal gate that was at the east end of the barn. I had finished riding, brought my sweaty horse into the wash area of the barn to hose her down, and when I looked up and saw this cute little face at the other end of the barn. She had twisted her head to fit between the bars of the gate and now she wanted to back up, but she felt the weight on her poll (top of head behind the ears) and was stuck. The right side of the brain ignited, and

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After a couple of days, I used B.E.S.T. for the second time, and the lumps were softer and less dense. she immediately was in “instinct” mode: FLIGHT! She didn’t have any information in the left side of her brain because she had never experienced this before, so there wasn’t any data to connect with. I stepped out of sight, said a prayer, and the rest is history. She pulled that gate

off the side of the barn, ran through a single electric wire that was off at the time, and into the pasture with a twelve foot gate on her neck!

As she ran, desperately trying to free herself from this predator gate, one end of the gate was up in the air and the other end went “bong, bong, bong” on the

her over, it was neither.

“She’s been bitten.” Bitten! This NEVER entered my mind! In her defense, she had struck out with her right leg to defend or break the grip, and in doing so, her knee got bruised and it hurt to put

ground she on which she traveled. I put my horse in her stall, collected a halter and lead rope, and calmly walked out to the pond she was standing by.

With sides heaving, flared nostrils and a look of genuine panic in her eyes. my body language illuminated, “Help is here, my

little darling dear.”

In one strong, yet gentle lift of one end of this metal horror (by the favor of God Himself), the timing, position, and leverage freed my equine friend from her prison cell. With tail flagged, she took off with a freedom run that is forever stamped in my horse album. A vet check verified she was fine physical-

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She is moving with more fluidity, yet tenderly. This is when memory comes.

“Annie” was a chestnut (reddish color), Morgan mare. I showed her in Western Pleasure classes at the KANDI MORGAN AND OPEN HORSE shows back in the day. In her 25th year, she had a knot appear on her neck.

Annie died in 2008.

weight on it.

These horses are amazing! What life lessons they bless us with again and again as we investigate a situation they bring to us. My life lesson was “Deb, don’t allow history and memory get in the way of TRUTH/REALITY.” This leads me to meditate on the Glory (God’s viewpoint and opinion, which is reality) of God.

A call was made to our beloved farrier (someone who shoes horses) and his Go ahead, bite me! wife. What an amazing team they are! They were Your NEIGHbor, in the area, and came to Deb Kitchenmaster check on our horse. For Corral Connections whatever reason, this year www.corralconnections.com several horses have foun‘A church of great heart’ dered on grasses. I wanted 256-426-7947 to make sure we were not dealing with founder or Animal B.E.S.T. practitioner laminitis. After checking dkitchenmaster@mchsi.com

September 16 - October 6, 2016

September 16 - October 6, 2016

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Page 21

Medical Update

Preventing and Managing High Blood Pressure

by Sasha Acelajado, MD

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects 30% of Americans, and the older one gets, the higher the chances are of developing this condition.

It has been called the “silent killer” as it is responsible for a significant number of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease. However, a lot of patients are unaware that they have the disease (up to 8%) or do not have any symptoms from it. The risk factors for developing high blood pressure include advancing age, family history, obesity or weight gain, race (more common in African-Americans), high salt intake, excessive alcohol consumption, and being physically inactive.

Looking at this list, it is obvious that while one cannot change their age, race or family history, the other factors can be modified by key lifestyle changes. Let’s talk about those.

my patients who don’t want to bother with adding up sodium throughout the day, the general rule of thumb I tell them is to avoid processed or canned food, as well as fast food, as these tend to be very high in sodium.

Salt substitutes typically contain potassium instead of sodium, which may be fine for some people, but in those with kidney issues, an excess of potassium in their diet can be problematic. If you would like to use salt substitutes, ask your physician if this is something that you can do safely. Likewise, experiment

at all during the week, this does not mean that if you are a male, you can consume 14 drinks on that day (2 drinks per day x 7 days should be 14 drinks, right?). No. Anything above the recommended daily amount mentioned above will count as “excessive."

This blood pressure-lowering benefit of moderating alcohol intake has been shown for people who drink excessively, and if you already do not consume alcohol, this does not mean that you should start.

Weight gain and obesity The presence of obesity at 18

Salt Sodium has been associated with a higher risk of developing hypertension, and certain individuals are “saltsensitive," where the blood pressure becomes more elevated with a certain level of salt intake compared to nonsalt sensitive persons. In patients who have high blood pressure, a high salt intake can make their medications become less effective. Most medical organizations and societies recommend a sodium intake of 2.3 grams (2300 mg) or less per day.

Food labels provide the sodium content per serving, and gives a general idea of whether you are getting your entire day's worth of salt per serving or if it is truly “low sodium." For

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years of age and at midlife has been associated with the development of hypertension. Weight gain of 10-20 lbs. has also been shown to increase the risk of developing high blood pressure, and this risk is even higher with greater weight gain. Excess weight also makes blood pressure medications less effective. On the other hand, for every 2-lb weight loss achieved, the blood pressure is lowered by 1 point. A sustained weight loss of more than 12 lbs. reduces the risk of developing high blood pressure by as much as 26%.

Weight loss also has a number

of benefits on overall health.

Always discuss with your physician regarding which weight loss strategy will be safe for you.

Increased physical activity Being physically inactive (extended sitting time at work, watching television for long periods, etc.) increases your risk of developing hypertension (and other diseases like diabetes, certain cancers and Alzheimer’s disease) and also your risk of early death. The simple act of replacing an hour of one’s day with non-exercise activity (such as performing household chores, yard work, or walking) in persons who are physically inactive has been shown to decrease mortality significantly. For most people, 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity activity (such as walking for 30 minutes, 5 days a week) is recommended, and it is important to ease into an exercise regimen slowly, in order to let your body adjust.

People with known heart, kidney, or lung disease and older folks should discuss exercise options with their physician prior to starting.

with using non-salt options to flavor food – herbs and spices can be used to make food tasty without using salt.

Reducing sumption

alcohol

con-

Moderate alcohol consumption has been defined as no more than 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink per day in women. If you consume alcohol only while watching the football game on Saturdays and didn’t drink

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Foreman’s Forum

Would You Use Deadly Force to Protect a Stranger?

by Paul Foreman This question has come up several times in my Firearms Classes. It’s a very important question and no, it does not have an easy answer. The question is: “Should I get involved and try to stop a robbery, even though the victim is a stranger?”

Have you thought about what you would do if you walked in on a robbery in progress? Should we use deadly force to

save a stranger? I believe that morally we should step in, where possible, and prevent an injury or death.

Many of us might stop when it comes to risking our own life to save a stranger. Before stepping into a situation with deadly force, we absolutely MUST know what is going on. Do we really know which one is the bad guy and which one is the innocent victim?

One evening, shortly af-

ter retiring from twenty three years of Law Enforcement, I came across a situation, which turned out to be very embarrassing for me.

We were out shopping.

My wife had just walked into a grocery store, I decided to check out a hardware store next door. I was just stepping up onto the sidewalk in front of the store, when the door came flying open and a

man ran out with another man chasing him, yelling, “Stop, bring that stuff back here and pay for it!”

I grabbed my cell phone and dialed 911. I identified myself along with the fact that I was now retired. I briefly described the shoplifting situation.

By now the manager and the shoplifter had stopped near the entrance to another store. I handed the manager my phone and said, “I have 911 on the phone, tell them what is

September 16 - October 6, 2016

going on.” The store manager looked at me like I was a little green Martian.

In an exasperated voice he said, “We don’t need 911, I am training a new man on how to handle a shoplifter!”

I am sure glad it was not an “armed robbery” training session! If the manager had been yelling, “Someone call 911, I have just been robbed!” I might have acted differently and

even dangerously by “assuming” it was a real robbery. My advice: ONLY use deadly force if YOU, or another innocent person is in IMMEDIATE danger of death or great bodily harm. That does not include stopping fleeing suspects.

Back when I was a Deputy Sheriff in Florida, a domestic violence incident started late one afternoon right outside my apartment. The woman was trying to leave in her car

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and the man was standing in front of her yelling obscenities. I called 911 and requested an on-duty Deputy to respond.

didn’t recognize me as a Deputy, even though my marked patrol car was parked ten feet away. He knew who I was.

Before the Deputy could arrive, the fight got worse.

The man pulled the women out of her car and threw her car keys off toward a wooded area. She tried to get a second set of keys from her purse.

He grabbed her purse and threw it away too. I called

He was cuffed before he knew what hit him, but at least now he knew for sure who I was. After stuffing the abuser in the back seat, I turned my attention to the victim. She insisted she was OK. Two days later, the “victim” came knocking on my door begging me to drop the charges against her boyfriend.

Did I do the right thing? Sure I did.

But what if that situation was really something different? Could she have been trying to steal his car?

Could she have just stolen items from his apartment? Could he have been the victim?

911 back and asked them to expedite the call, as the situation had escalated and I was going to have to intervene. I grabbed a set of handcuffs, hung my badge on my collar, and went outside. My snub nose 38 was tucked into my back pocket. The man had the woman backed up against the trunk of the car. As I approached, I yelled, “Deputy Sheriff, back off now!” The man glanced over his shoulder at me with an enraged expression. He acted like he

Unless you are 100% positively sure of the facts, and you personally are in danger, think twice before getting into something you could very well regret later.

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

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

by Phone at 256-431-6702

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