Athens Now Alabama 9-21-2012

Sept. 21 - Oct. 4, 2012

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

Storytelling 2012: “Laugh ’Til You Cry And Cry ‘Til You Laugh”

By Ali Elizabeth Turner

Since we were kids, most of us were aware of the scripture that says “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine,” even if we didn’t know it was found in the book of Proverbs.

Modern medicine has now “proven the proverb,” and it is inarguable that laughter just flat makes folks feel better, most especially when they are laughing at themselves.

Continued on pages 15

Beltone: Helping Athens Hear Better

By Ali Elizabeth Turner The Beltone Company has been around for a good while, since 1940, to be exact, and has always been on the cutting edge of hearing instrument science.

In Alabama and Mississippi, the Hames and Hendon families have been blessed to open and maintain more than 20 Beltone hearing centers, one of the most recent additions being located at 22923 Hwy 72 E in Athens.

Hal Hames is an audioprosthologist, (someone who is a Continued on page 16

September 21 - October 4, 2012

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Madison Weatherbee, Patient Care Coordinator and Josh Moody, Hearing Instrument Specialist of Beltone Athens

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September 21 - October 4, 2012

Publisher’s Point

The Need For Heeding The Call

Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Contributing Writers Shelley Underhill Janet Hunt Diane Ellis Miles, Ed.D. Lynne Hart Jeanette Dunnavant Brian Black Deb Kitchenmaster

To say we live in perilous times is a ridiculous understatement, and the news of the past two weeks has been particularly disturbing and ominous. Israel is on the brink of war, they must make a preemptive strike, and the President has no time to speak with Benjamin Netanyahu. This is the second time our ally, (about whom it is said in scripture is a source of blessing for those who bless her, and cursing for those who don’t,) has been ignored. There is a Presidential election cycle going on that at times would convince some folks that the inmates are running the asylum.

The Arab world is on fire over a movie that no one has seen, State Department personnel have been brutally murdered,

our southern border is porous, we’ve murdered our unborn, our economy is nearly in a free fall, and everyone is accusing everyone of being racist if they disagree with their beliefs. Not exactly cheery news, this, and these are problems that are so tangled that only God can straighten them out.

If we look at Israel of

old, we see that they went through 12 cycles of captivity, and there came a

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . . 4

Thankfully in our nation and in our community there are people who are willing to reach across denominational lines, humble themselves, and come together to fast and pray for the survival of our nation.

Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 5 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . 6 Clean and Green . . . . . . . . 8 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

On Sept 29th there will be an all day event day from 9am to 5pm at the Wellness Park. The purpose is to gather together to begin a 40 day season of fasting and praying for this crucial time in our nation. There will be a video link to the national event being held in Philadelphia, PA. The event in Philadelphia will

Cooking with Shelley . . . . . . 11 Lifelong Learning . . . . . . . . . 12 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . 13 Cover Stories . . . . . . . . . 15-16 Horse Whispering . . . . . . . 18 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 19 Athens Rehabilitation . . . . . . 20 Medical Update . . . . . . . . . . 22 Security Savvy . . . . . . . . . . 23

September 21 - October 4, 2012

point in each cycle where the people wised up and sought God for deliverance from their “many waters.” They were like us, full of idolatry, sacrificing their children, consumed by everything except the Almighty, and in mortal, cultural, economic, physical and spiritual peril.

be on the Freedom Mall, and it is expected that 20,000 will gather to call a solemn assembly, repent, worship, and seek God for a Great Spiritual Awakening. For more information, or to volunteer, call John Axford at 256-431-4111, or go to www.AwakeningAmerica.us

It was said that Mary Queen of Scots feared the prayers of John Knox more than anything in all of life, and we are told in James that the “prayers of a righteous man availeth much.”

If ever there were a time to “avail and prevail,” this is it. We may not get another chance before we are plunged into the collapse of all that we hold dear.

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

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All Things Soldier

Prince Harry And The Debacle Of The Drawdown

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

I have spoken at length in days gone by of the frustration experienced by troops over the way both the media and civilian superiors handle details regarding their movements or strategies. I had my own life endangered on more than one occasion because of their folly, and events of the last week underscore once again just how vulnerable our troops are to attack from the mishandling of information.

Afghanistan is a place of tremendous danger from within and without. Afghan security forces trained by our troops are turning upon and murdering those who have labored long and hard to give them a shot at being free. Amongst those serving bravely is Prince Harry of England, the youngest son

of the late Princess Diana and Prince Charles.

Recently the outer perimeter on the base where Prince Harry is serving was breached, and 18 enemy combatants were killed.

Their stated purpose was to take out Prince Harry, and of that I have no doubt. It would have been tough to do, and thankfully their attempt at physical and psychological warfare in a war where morale was flagging was foiled. But, do you know what would have been a perfect end to the story? That we never heard of it. I realize that in

this day of internet and instant messaging that is nigh on to impossible, but quite frankly, our insistence on having a “front row seat” in a theatre of combat endangers our soldiers.

Now the entire Taliban and every other Islamist terrorist group on the planet know the location of Prince Harry, who is already in an impossible situation.

The guy just wants to be a soldier who doesn’t get any special treatment, serve with his squad, and finish his tour. Whether or not he has been moved, I don’t know and don’t want to know. Either way, I can guarantee you that having it globally broadcast that he was there and was the target helped no one, least of all the British troops serving with him.

On to the up and coming drawdown of our troops in Afghanistan. The President

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of the United States by de facto has all but told the Taliban that they just need to sit tight and wait. The level of troop reduction has been well published, as well as the timeline, and the only thing worse would have been to send the enemy a memo containing the itinerary.

When I was in Iraq, I had to come up with a code to communicate with my husband when I’d be arriving home for R&R so as not to inadvertently disclose movement, and I was a civilian. So, is it any wonder that the Boston Globe just published a piece discussing the all time low level of morale amongst our brave troops? Connect the dots, folks. Trust me, it’s no fun having a bull’s eye painted on your chest, and it’s even worse when it happens at the behest of those who should know better.

September 21 - October 4, 2012

Calendar of Events AHS Band Cotton Classic Marching Festival Sep 22 at 11:00 AM

This competition will be an all day event and Marching Bands stretching from Tuscaloosa to Nashville are invited. We are estimating a total of 12-20 bands.

The competition will be held in the Athens High School Football Stadium.

The Pride of Dixie Marching Band from UNA will perform as the exhibition band at the end of the day, prior to the awards ceremony. Please contact John Hays at telephone 256-998-0158 or email ahscottonclassic@gmail.com

POW/MIA Recognition Day Sep 22 at 10:00 AM

The United States’ National POW/MIA Recognition Day is observed across the nation on the third Friday of September each year. Many Americans take the time to remember those who were prisoners of war (POW) and those who are missing in action... (MIA), as well as their families. Join us at the Alabama Veterans Museum for a Missing Man ceremony, this ceremony is hosted annually by the Vietnam Veterans Association, Chapter 511. Ceremony will begin at 10:00. Please call the museum for more details, 256-771-7578.

Spirit of Athens invites you to “A Celebration of All Things Fried” Sep 29

Downtown Athens, AL will be alive and hopping as the Spirit of Athens first annual “Grease Festival - A Celebration of all things Fried”. It’s Toga time!

There will be an Olympic-themed opening ceremony and games, fried food vendors who will sell items and compete in fried food contests, southern craft vendors, and children’s activities. Mark your calendars for a fried food festival and celebration of the Greek origin of our city’s name. Share your ideas, the quirkier the better! The music starts in early afternoon with performers Faron Davis, The Charles and Grant Show, Matt Prater, Richie and Deemer, Joey Thompson and Charles Williams and The Park Band. Contact 256232-9040 or www.spiritofathens.com.

City Cemetery Walk Sep 30 at 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Step back in time and learn about some of the citizens buried at the Athens City Cemetery. Actors will be in garb as they tell about their ancestors. The cemetery is on Hobbs Street. Contact 256-232-2327

Haunts Walks Oct 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 at 6:30 PM & 7:00 PM

For a fun night with family and friends, join us for our annual “Haunts Walks”. Tour guides will tell you some of the ghosts’ stories of homes and buildings in Athens. It’s about a mile walk and takes between 1½ - 2 hours.

Tickets are $5.00 each. You must purchase your tickets in advance. Contact: 256-232-5411/256-867-1438

Bean Day Oct 5 at 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM Come and enjoy the beans at the Family Life Center of First Baptist Church in Athens to benefit the Senior Center. A plate of white beans, ham, slaw and cornbread—plus a great dessert and a drink will sell for $6.00. Delivery of larger orders can be arranged. For more info call Jennifer at Council of Aging

September 21 - October 4, 2012

at (256) 233-6412 or Mrs. Greenhaw at 256-232-6643.

Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention Oct 5 & 6

The Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention is known as the “Granddaddy of Midsouth Fiddlers Conventions” for its role in reviving the tradition of competition in old time music. Approximately, 15,000 people are expected to attend the convention this year from more than 30 states. The convention brings some 200 contestants to compete for top prize money. There are 18 different categories, including several fiddle and guitar categories, harmonica, mandolin, bluegrass banjo, dulcimer, old time singing, banjo, and buck dancing. The Convention culminates in a “fiddle-off,” between the top two fiddlers. The winning fiddler is declared “Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddle Champion,” and takes home a trophy and $1000. A total of $11,850 will be awarded to contestants. In addition to the musical competition, hundreds of musicians will participate in the numerous jam sessions conducted across the Athens State campus during the weekend. Many people camp in travel trailers and even tents during the event on the University property. The convention also includes 150 traditional arts and crafts booths. These feature many handmade and traditional items. Convention proceeds support student scholarships and University projects. To date more than $500,000 has been contributed to the University. Contact: 256-233-8261, athens.edu/fiddlers. Admission is charged.

Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby Oct 6

This annual rubber duck race benefits Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful. For a $5 donation to KALB, you will have a specially-designed, numbered rubber duck in the race in your name. Six ducks will be put in the race for a $25 Quack Pack donation. The McClary Ford $1,000 Grand Prize and several more great prizes will be given away to the owners of winning ducks. Adopt your ducks at www.KeepAthensLimestoneBeautiful.com. You can make your donations on line or print a Duck Adoption form to mail in to KALB. Be sure to stop to see us at the Fiddlers Convention where our booth will be all “ducked” out!!

For information call 256-233-8728 or email KeepALBeautiful@att.net.

Athens Cruise In on the Square Oct 6

The monthly Cruise In is held the 1st Saturday night of each month - Apr Oct. Bring your antique vehicle and park around the square. Enjoy delicious dishes offered by our downtown restaurants. Come early and check out the great buys at the downtown businesses. Be sure and get you an ice cream cone at Limestone Drug or milk shake at Kreme Delight. Make it a family night. This will be the last Cruise In for 2012. They will resume in April 2013. Contact Tom at 256-457-9179.

“Farewell to Summer” Dinner Show Oct 6 at 7:00 PM

Yesterdays Event Center invites you to Joe Wheeler Resort Lodge, located on US Hwy 72, 2 miles west of Rogersville. Deadline for reservations is Sat Sep 22nd. We also have a few of the 4:00 PM Pontoon River Cruise slots still available. The dinner show includes a complete 3 entrée buffet dinner, and a great dinner show featuring the region’s #1 showband “The Flashbacks”. A dance floor area will be available for this show. Visit www.yesterdaysevents. com for more information.

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Special Feature

Self Defense Solutions: Protecting And Empowering Adults, Teens And Kids

by Ali Elizabeth Turner I met Self Defense Solutions owner and Director of Operations Cameron Bucy in the process of doing an article for Craig’s Guns and Ammo, and they recommended him as a superb firearms trainer. I needed handgun instruction myself, and was intrigued that he had a class especially for women. I took it, and during the “course of the course,” found Cam to be professional, experienced in all facets of firearms training, sharp, and above all, an excellent and patient teacher. What I also appreciated about him was that he thought like the SEALS as well as private personal security detail guys I knew in Iraq, and we could discuss various personal security scenarios that don’t typically get taught in most self-defense or firearm courses. He incorporates Executive Protection concepts and tactics into his personal defense and tactical handgun courses.

“There is a problem with what I call the narrow path of self defense,” says Cam, as opposed to what he does, i.e. teaching what is known as “situational awareness.”

“Being aware of your circumstances is the most important part of protecting yourself, becoming a hard target, not a soft target.” He boldly states, “Your adversary does not

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will prompt your adversary to find a ‘soft’ or easier target.”

Cam instructing in the Combative Hands class

To help our citizens, military, private security, and law enforcement community, Cam has developed the “Combative Hands” course, and I had the opportunity to both sit in on and participate in one part of the five part course.

There were both

come out of nowhere, they were already there, and you just were not paying attention. Bad guys are profiling you, and you better learn how to profile them.” Guys look for people who are walking and texting, on their phone while they are heading toward their car, and in general distracted and disconnected Breaking a hold from their surroundings. “The narrow path is strictly about what to do women and men in the once the attack starts, and class, ranging from a situational awareness is spunky young woman in about understanding your her ‘20s, to a female sephysical surroundings, nior citizen who is every as well as the mind and inch the Southern lady. body of your attacker. Let me tell you, I was Becoming a hard target surprised by the strength

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and skill of the senior woman, and it was her very first exposure to both the physical as well as mental demands of protecting herself.

Cam gave individualized and personal instruction to each of us, and I left the class with more confidence.

So, what does Cam do when he’s not teaching how to shoot, break holds and disable your attacker? He and his team protect everyone from the kids at East Limestone High School during their prom, to a former White House cabinet member, to CEOs who have had to close down a plant, as well as, escorting VIPs during business

“Bob” the target of throat strikes

Cam Bucy of Slef Defense Solutions

travels, and people being stalked. Regarding the prom, a guest at the hotel at which the prom was being held came up to Cam during the event and said, “Who do you have here that’s so important?” His reply? “Every one of these kids.” Incidentally, several parents contacted SDS afterwards and said, “This is the first time we could relax while our kids were at the prom because we had no doubt you would keep them safe.” If you are his client, you are protected as though you are the President of the United States. His motto is, “If an attacker gets anywhere near you, we haven’t done our job. Our job it to protect our principle or ‘client’ from accident, injury, embarrassment and personal harm.”

Cam has more than 25 years of security experience, and a

September 21 - October 4, 2012

hand trained core crew of 4 men and 2 women, including his wife, who is a counselor in the Madison County School System.

He also has more protection specialists available for larger details that involve crowds, or if the threat or risk assessments change.

He has taught Active Shooter Event seminars and Situational Safety Awareness at NASA, Redstone Arsenal, small businesses, churches, club based organizations, and to parents.

Recently Cam became certified by Phil Chalmers, (who is considered to be the foremost authority on school shootings and juvenile homicide,) to teach police, teachers, principals, parents and kids from 7th through 12th grades everything that has to do with preventing and surviving a school shooting. Chal-

mers (and Cam) pull no punches about what sets up an event, from the role of violent entertainment

images and music, to substance abuse, sexting and other factors that can precipitate a school shooting.

Cam teaches adults and kids what to do in case a shooting occurs, but the most important aspects have much more to do with prevention, detection, and preparation, as well as, education on the triggers, signs and causes of a teen shooter. In ad-

dition, in the “True Lies” school assembly exposes the roll bullying plays in many school shootings, and teaches kids how to become “bully proof.”

As we chatted in Starbuck’s, I asked him what I should do if someone came in to the store and started shooting. First try to get out, if you can’t, create an exit by throwing a chair or table through a window. Secondly, hide where you cannot be found, and third, fight back,” (which he’ll show you how to do.) Most of us wouldn’t think to destroy property to save ourselves or others, but it is indeed that mindset that can make all the difference, and he definitely knows how to teach it until you get it.

ucation, a consultation or what is truly “executive protection,” then I highly recommend that you contact Cam Bucy at 256-337-3467, cameron.bucy@yahoo.com, or visit selfdefensesolutions.net.

If you are in need of education, a consultation or what is truly “executive protection,” then I highly recommend that you contact Cam Bucy at 256-337-3467, cameron. bucy@yahoo.com, or visit selfdefensesolutions.net.

If you are in need of ed-

The Limestone Sheriff’s Rodeo & Lone Star Rodeo Company Announce

Bareback & Saddle Bronc School Saturday & Sunday October 27-28, 2012 9 am Sheriff’s Arena—Hwy 99—Athens, AL Coaches: NFR Qualifiers Ty Atchinson & Wade Sundell Entry Fees: $350 Total $150 Deposit Deadline October 18th Stock Provided by Lone Star Rodeo Company Crofton, KY

For More Info: Sheriff Mike Blakely 256-232-0111 www.LimestoneSheriffRodeo.com September 21 - October 4, 2012

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Clean and Green

12th Annual Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby

by Lynne Hart

The MCLARY FORD $1,000 GRAND PRIZE Could Be YOURS! Our racing ducks know they’ll be swimming for a good cause -- to support the work of KALB -- so they are all flexing their feathers and preparing for the important race!

How Does it Work?

For a $5 donation to Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful, a specially-designed rubber racing duck will be placed in our Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby in your name!

For a $25 donation, you will receive a CHICK-FIL-A Quack Pack which includes SIX ducks and a coupon for a free sandwich from the Athens Chick-fil-A restaurant!

On October 6th at 4:00 p.m., these numbered rubber ducks will swim down the spillway at Big Spring Memorial Park (right across the street from the Fiddler’s Convention at Athens State).

Two heats will determine which ducks will enter the Championship Race. Every duck in the Championship Race will bring home a prize for the human that adopted him! The number of ducks in the Champion-

ship Race will be determined by the number of prizes at the time of the race.

What Can You Win? We are receiving more prizes all the time! Here is a list of some of the prizes you could take home: $1,000 McClary Ford Grand Prize $250 Gift Certificate to Osborne’s Jewelers Theatre Huntsville Flex Tickets for 2 ($120 Value) Dollywood Passes for 2 ($114 value)

$100 Gift Certificate to Hobbs Jewelers $100 Cash Prizes provided

by The News Courier and Limestone Drug

$99 Teeth Whitening from Athens Dental Services Limestone Bay Trading Company Gift Certificates Birmingham Zoo Passes Publix $50 Gift Card $50 Cash Prize from Eastside Pharmacy

chure at area businesses in Athens. We’ll also be at the Athens Grease Festival on Sept 29th and at the Fiddlers Convention on Oct. 5th and 6th where we will have duck adoption forms available.

organize and provide supplies for the Adopt-A-Spot program, provide an outstanding recycling program for the entire county, host the annual Earth Day Celebration which is free to the public, and much more!

What Does This Support?

Visit our website www.

KeepAthensLimestoneBeautiful.com, or give us a call at 256-233-8728. We’d love to tell you more!

KALB’s programs touch every resident in Limestone County in one way or another. We provide environmental education programs in city and county classrooms, support other organizations having clean and green outdoor events,

More to Come!

How to Adopt Ducks Visit our website and follow the links to adopt any number of ducks online. You can also pick up a Wacky Quacky Ducky Derby bro-

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(256) 233-8728 KeepALBeautiful@att.net

Become a Fan

www.KeepAthensLimestoneBeautiful.com September 21 - October 4, 2012

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September 21 - October 4, 2012

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Tourism

Toe Tapping And Lips Smacking

By Jeanette Dunnavant, President, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association

The inaugural Athens Grease Festival will be September 29, 2012 in downtown Athens from 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM. The downtown area will be filled with Southern crafts, Olympic-themed activities, and a variety of food vendors who will offer at least one fried item on their menus. And in the South, fried food is not limited to vegetables and meat; desserts such as fried Oreos and fried Twinkies have become increasingly popular.

It will be a day-long event which includes a bike ride, fun run, and a children’s area. Festival goers are encouraged to wear their togas to what may turn out to be the largest toga party in North Alabama and dance to live music provided by Faron Davis, The Charles and Grant Show, Matt Prater, Richie and Deemer, Joey Thompson and Charles Williams, and The Park Band.

For more information about the Grease Festival visit www.athensgreasefestival.com.

Riders in The Sky will be headlining the 46th annual Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention at Athens State University (ASU), performing on the Founders Hall stage at 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM on Friday, October 7th. The Convention will be October 5th & 6th on the ASU campus.

For thirty years, Riders in The Sky have been keepers of the flame passed on by 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

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humor and wit. Riders in The Sky are the only exclusively Western artist to have won a Grammy, actually they have won two!

The convention has historically attracted more than 15,000 people for the two-day event, with more than 200 musicians participating in the musical competition. There are 18 different categories, including several fiddle and guitar categories, harmonica, mandolin, bluegrass banjo, dulcimer, old time singing, banjo, and buck dancing. The festival culminates on Saturday night with the naming of the “Fiddle Champion.” Being named Fiddle Champion is highly competitive and is a coveted prize.

Contests begin Friday, October 5th at 7:00 PM following the Riders in the Sky performance and resume on Saturday, October 6th at 8:30 AM. A total of $11,870 in prize money will be awarded. Proceeds from the convention fund student scholarships and other university projects.

Admission is $8 for Friday, $10 for Saturday and $15 for both days.

Children ages 12 and under are admitted free with a parent. Advance tickets are available from the Athens State Business Office located in Founders Hall at 300 N. Beaty Street. For more information visit http://www.athens.edu/fiddlers.

For information about the above events and other Athens-Limestone County events call 256-232-5411/256-867-1438 or visit our website www.VisitAthensAL.com.

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September 21 - October 4, 2012

Cooking with Shelley

We’re Crockin’ Again...

by Shelley Underhill

If you like tasty meatloaf, then try this on for size...

A few weeks back I wrote about the turkey chili that was cooked in a crockpot and that it would be part of a series that I would be writing about.

(Crockin’) I said that the most action my crockpot has ever seen is at Christmas when I use it to heat things up. Well my friends, all that has changed.

Their are a lot of really good recipes that you can do in your crockpot. I am discovering that...one

recipe at a time.

My hope is that you will try this recipe and share it with a friend. Be on the lookout for the next crockin’ recipe. I have several that I want to share with you. Enjoy!

You can email your questions and ideas to shelleysdesk@gmail.com.

What you will need: 2 lb. lean ground beef 2 eggs 2 packs maple & brown sugar oatmeal 1 pkg. dry onion soup mix 1/2 cup ketchup Directions: Reserve 2 Tbs. ketchup. Combine all other ingredients together with remaining ketchup and mix well. Shape into loaf for crock pot. Put into crock pot and top with remaining ketchup. Cover with lid and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours.

September 21 - October 4, 2012

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Learning As A Lifestyle

A Culture Of Learning

by Diane Ellis Miles, Ed.D. - Founder and President: The Ellis Academy Increasingly, both in our local communities and throughout our country, cries of frustration over quality and standards in education are heard in schools, business, industry, colleges and universities, and the government. Questions abound as to why students can go through 13 years of schooling and are still unable to read, write, or ‘make change’! Added to this is the growing demand of business and industry for employees who can write and speak well.

Over the past 20 years, extensive funding has been made available to grades K-16 to raise the quality of education for all students. Core Competencies, “No Child Left Behind”, National Goals Commission, U.S. Department of Labor’s SCANs Skills, National Standards, State Standards, STEM, and other extensive efforts have not yielded the desired results.

With all of these initiatives, why are our students drop-

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ping out prior to high school graduation or performing at a level below students of other societies and countries?

The issues in education today cannot be addressed in one article; however, there are some interesting factors that deserve our attention. One issue is the rate at which change occurs in education. In 1989, Herbert Langford identified that it takes business and industry 3 years to bring an idea from research and development to the market; health care takes 10 years; and education typically requires 30 years. 30 years! Think how much the world has changed since the early 1980s.

There are many inhibiting factors to this thirty year change phenomenon. While money spent on educational initiatives clearly has not been one, the size and multi-layered organizational structure and the large number of students needing to be educated in any one school do seem to

be significant factors. Today, among professional educators, the focus has been how to create a culture of learning, not only in school, but also in work and life.

In a culture of learning, students, faculty, parents, and administrators are not ‘layered’ and separated. While the ethos of a school may be business-like, it is also innovative, creative, and participative. As an example, students learn about democracy and a representative government by developing their own school government based on our nation’s documents as the model. They write, critique, struggle over critical issues, debate, and vote. Everyone in the school is included. Each arm of the school: students, faculty, and parents participate in their own group with a representative as ex-officio to the other groups. Information flows.

Ideas are clarified. It is not

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just for one age group, one grade group or one interest group, it is a whole school experience.

Another example is an emphasis on business, finance,

and entrepreneurship. While theories, principles, and ethics are learned, each student studies and develops a business for which she has a unique talent and/or an interest. If she lacks knowledge or skill in an area, she must acquire those skills to proceed. She must develop her expertise, test market her product, price the items, and bring it to the public.

How can these types of examples be implemented?

Perhaps one of the greatest challenges in schools today is creating small learning environments of students. Currently priorities seem to be focused toward sports for a few and away from learning for all—a culture of spec-

tatorship. Returning to an environment that engages students with rich discussion and creative expression brings forth new life.

It was with the intention of creating this integrated and focused culture of learning that The Ellis Academy was formed. After a three year period of formation and piloting of courses and projects, The Ellis Academy has made itself available to families seeking a complete education for their daughters and grand-daughters from 4K through Grade 12.

The Ellis Academy (its parents, students, and faculty) is committed to an interactive, complete, classical, and ‘hands on’ learning environment in small groups (1:8 as ideal). This whole-school learning environment requires mastery in the Core Curriculum (classical courses; ancient and modern languages; math, life sciences, and technology). Projects, which are integrated real world problems applying knowledge and skills from the courses and the arts, prepare each student for college, work, and life. Within the culture, students are recognized as individuals who are at different stages of development with varying gifts and talents.

Scholarly faculty members are facilitators and guides who encourage active participation as opposed to being lecturers who provide passive listeners with all the information. Thus, The Ellis Academy provides an educational environment in which students, faculty, and administrators interact in a respectful, collegial environment without sacrificing the understanding of roles and responsibilities.

September 21 - October 4, 2012

What Makes Ronnie Roll

Constitution Week Vs. Constitution Weak

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

We are blessed, in this day of progressivism, relativism, socialism, humanism, collectivism, and any other philosophical “ism” you can think of, to be surrounded by people who have either put their lives on the line or spent time and energy to “protect and defend the Constitution from all enemies, both foreign and domestic.” Mayor Marks is such a person, as are mem-

fore Congress, essentially asking that each year the week of September 17th through the 23rd be set aside as a national time of defense and protection of the Constitution through remembrance of the most remarkable document of self governance that has ever been produced. On August 2, 1956, Presi-

Rita Majors (L) and Harris Anderson, age 4, Riley Anderson, age 7, with little sister, Mary Bennett Anderson, age 2. Parents are Ben and Kate Anderson of Athens.

bers of the John Wade Keyes chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. On September 18th, through the help of Athens State University, there was an event entitled the Joint Celebration of Constitution Day, which marked the kick-off of Constitution Week.

The Mayor had just come from the event when we met for our standing appointment, and let’s just say it was easy to see that he had been inspired by it. “This year marks the 225th anniversary of the Constitution,” he said, “and we need to remind ourselves that ‘we the people’ is still the guiding principal of government.”

A little background on Constitution Week—In 1955, the Daughters of the American Revolution put a petition be-

Scholarship Winners: Amanda Davis, Daniel Watson, Joshua Cote and Brian Stover

document, the question has to be asked, “OK, it is wonderful that we have the national celebration of Constitution Week, but are we as a nation, in fact, ‘Constitution weak?’” In the ‘60s, when I was in school, civics was no longer a requirement for graduation. Much of the originalist approach to interpreting the Constitution had managed to stay

intact, and we functioned under a fairly high level of constitutionality in our country.

Now it seems that we have lost our way on so many fronts, and thankfully groups like the DAR and Hillsdale College, the Tea Party and other patriotic groups are making it possible to return as a culture to a state of constitutional literacy, and not a moment too soon. It is thank-

fully no longer considered odd to have a pocket copy of the Constitution, and “we the people” need to get very familiar with it, especially if we are going to make reasonable choices in a critical election year.

The Mayor once again would like to thank ASU and the DAR for all their effort in seeing to it that our freedoms are protected through knowledge and education in general, and regarding the Constitution in particular. Celebrating our “guiding principal of government” is indeed one of the things that makes Ronnie roll.

dent Dwight D. Eisenhower signed it into law. DAR President General, Presley Merritt Wagoner stated, “We encourage all citizens across the country to take time this week to reflect on our heritage of freedom.”

The event at Athens State featured a Constitution trivia quiz, and students from the college competed for prizes from the college bookstore. It is no secret that kids are dear to the heart of the mayor, as he spent several decades helping abused kids during his career with DHR, and the little kids at the event dressed in period costumes had clearly made his day.

But as enjoyable as it was to have cute kids, along with the encouraging presence of smart young people who know their way around the

September 21 - October 4, 2012

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Page 13

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at the Church/League where you wish to participate.

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Boys & Girls Kindergarten – 6th Grade

201 East Hobbs Street, Athens, Alabama 35611

Contact: David Carter

256-232-0602

dcarter@fbcathens.org

Isom’s Chapel United Methodist

Boys: Kindergarten – 10th Grade & Girls: Kindergarten – 8th Grade

16230 Mooresville Road, Athens, Alabama 35613

Contact: Jerry Green

256-714-4378

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Lindsay Lane Baptist

Boys: Kindergarten – 10th Grade & Girls: Kindergarten – 8th Grade

1300 Lindsay Lane, Athens, Alabama 35613

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Page 14

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September 21 - October 4, 2012

Cover Story

Storytelling 2012: “Laugh ’Til You Cry And Cry ‘Til You Laugh”

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

continued from page 1

Well, if you need a good laugh, need to hear a good tale, need to be with good folks, and need to have a good, clean family time that won’t make you have to repent afterwards, then the 2012 6th Annual Storytelling Festival is the place for you and your kids. This year’s Storytellers’ will be held under the big tent on the East side of the Limestone County Courthouse beginning on Thursday, October 25th thru Saturday, October 27th.

Several new ‘tellers are on this year’s lineup, although none is new to the storytelling profession. Bobby Norfolk is a three time Emmy Award winner, and “tells” to children all over the world.

His wife, Sherry Norfolk has a rare ability to teach values with humor by using several voices, and engaging her audiences interactively. Dolores Hydock creates several characters to tell her stories, which range in topic from being in love to her love of turnip greens.

She is known for “talking” with her hands, elbows and shoulders. Kevin Kling, who is a veteran of National Public Radio’s All Things Considered, teaches kids about right and wrong through

the use of two characters named Goofus and Gallant. Of his two imaginary chums Kevin says, “Gallant cleans his room, Goofus sees if oily rags will burn in a window well.” Interestingly, (and in stark contrast to Dolores,) Kevin has managed to be wonderfully animated in his presentation in spite of the fact that a motorcycle accident left him with no use of his right arm whatsoever.

Veteran ‘tellers such as Donald Davis, Carmen Deedy and John McCutcheon will be back again this year, and all of them rave about the Athens event because of the legendary hospitality and honor that they experience each year.

This year there will be an added treat, as John McCutcheon, who is one fine musician, will be giving a free concert on Thursday evening.

Several things stand out about our festival, starting with the fact that out of 300 national events, ours is the only one that sees to it that students from our school system as well as homeschoolers get to attend free of charge. Our legislators Dan Williams, Bill Holtzclaw and Mac McCutcheon work hard to get funding to make it possible. People and businesses alike

September 21 - October 4, 2012

Carmen Deedy

least! That was the first time I have ever attended that type of event and I loved it. I want my children to be able to enjoy events like this for years to come.”

Come and see what Miss Lisa and others have come to love so much, and “laugh ‘til you cry, and cry ‘til you laugh.”

pitch in to make the event something that, according to event organizer Wayne Kuykendall, “has an 80100K dollar financial impact on our community.”

There is more than just financial impact to be celebrated, though, and is best illustrated by an incident related last year at the Storyteller’s dinner held the night before the kickoff event.

Donald Davis, who is considered by many to be the “elder statesman” of the storytelling world was in line at the Walmart on Hwy 72. Sporting his trademark bow tie, he was recognized by the kid working behind the register. “Are you Donald Davis?,” the checker asked. Mr. Davis replied in the affirmative. “I saw you at Storytellers’ when I was still in school,” said

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the kid. He went on to tell Donald just how much he enjoyed it, how glad he was to have been able to hear all the tellers, and, most importantly, how he understood the importance of storytelling. And that, truly, is the point. Storytelling is about much more than making people laugh, or providing a safe place for families to enjoy themselves, or to put money in the coffers of local tourism.

Telling stories preserves cultures, gives a sense of history as well as future, and is the basis of everything from gathering around a campfire to roast marshmallows, to imparting divine truths. As Lisa Adams, the Librarian for Limestone County Schools pointed out,

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

“I just want to tell you that I thought the Storytelling Festival was WONDERFUL, to say the very

Page 15

Cover Story

Beltone: Helping Athens Hear Better

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

standing and hopefully more “patience with the patient.”

trained expert in matching the right device to the ear and life of a customer,) his daughter Michelle is a Dr. of Audiology, and his wife, Linda, daughter Lesley Hendon, and sonin-law Jake Hendon all work together to make the Beltone Audiology facilities the premier hearing instrument science centers in the Southeast. Together they have decades of experience in the hearing industry.

I asked Lesley and Dr. Michelle why, if I am in need of hearing help, should I come to them? They both answered quickly, “Customer care.” Any Beltone customer gets free lifetime customer care, known as Bel Care, which includes evaluation, cleaning, any adjustments, anything except batteries. Customers also have access to trained techs at each facility. I became aware of the care and respect given to clients, especially when it comes to making someone comfortable with everything involved in using a hearing science instrument, from the test-

Page 16

Another reason to choose Beltone is both their longevity in the market and the quality of their products. Beltone started in Chicago over 70 years ago with a friend successfully helping a friend, and remained family owned at the corporate level until 15 years ago. “They are not the oldest, but are one of the longest standing,” said Lesley. Beltone

has continued to lead the way, both with technological advances and with educating their clients.

It used to be that “hearing aids” were noticeable, bulky, had feed back, (how well I remember my dad turning his up and down constantly,) couldn’t handle any moisture, and the range of hearing was often both distorted and limited. Several types of hearing situations used to be most challenging,

New Athens Beltone (next to Barnett & Swan Home Furnishings) ing process to being fitted, not only physically, but with finding the right “fit,” technologically speaking. More on that follows below. During the testing process, the patient’s response to all manner of sounds which occur in nature is noted,

and not just a flat, artificial tone as was the case in days gone by. Sounds include everything from birds to crowds, and the patient’s family gets the opportunity to hear the loss being experienced by their loved one, fostering better under-

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Josh Moody performing a hearing test

September 21 - October 4, 2012

such as restaurants, being outdoors, talking on the phone, or watching TV without annoying those watching with you because you had the volume turned up too high. Now there is what is known as the TRUE technology, a genuine breakthrough.

The Beltone TRUE series features multiple directional microphones, the ability for the microphones to change modes, a feedback eraser, wind noise reduction system, and a number of wireless accessories. The personal wireless network system makes it possible to link to the TV, your cell phone, and other audio sources, and also has a remote control that will adjust the hearing aids and the accesories. Now the rest of your family can listen to a program with the volume at a comfortable level for them, and the wireless device will adjust yours accordingly. In addition, Beltone TRUE has the best anti-whistling system in the business. It features a number of models, some of which are barely visible.

For clients who have need of a hearing aid that fits behind the ear, there is the TURN system. It has the ability to suppress certain unpleasant or overly loud sounds. Additionally, it helps with hearing conversations rather than background noises like refrigerators or fans. It also features a “telecoil,” for use with telephone conversations.

Regarding education as it applies to defining hearing loss, I learned some things to look out for.

You may be experiencing hearing loss if: •People seem to mumble more frequently •You experience ringing in your ears •You often ask people to repeat themselves •Your family complains that you play the radio or TV too loudly •You no longer hear normal household sounds like a dripping faucet or a doorbell •You have difficulty understanding conversations in crowds, groups, or one on on •Phone conversations become increasingly difficult, as is hearing when someone’s back is turned toward you •You speak too loudly If these are your concerns, then Josh Moody, H.I.S. (Hearing Instrument Specialist) and Madison Weatherbee, PSS (Patient Care Coordinator) will be more than able to assist you. Call the Athens office at 256-867-4200 to schedule an appointment.

Beltone Athens

22923 Highway 72 E, Suite A Athens, AL 35613 www.beltone audiology.com

September 21 - October 4, 2012

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Page 17

Horse Whispering

UNITY Fall is in the air! I so enjoy this season, with its cooler temps, earthen smells, and varied colors.

Great time to saddle up a horse and travel by a riverbed amidst the trees and wild turkeys, vultures, foxes, honeybees, and Canadian geese. All of these I encountered on a recent outing. Later, I found myself relaxing by a campfire under the stars, sipping a fresh cup of coffee with a shot of real half and half, and listening with friends to stories that warm the heart and soul.

One word comes to mind, and that is “UNITY”.

What is unity? Unity is an agreement, accord and unison that presents us with a dance card of closeness, friendship, peace and solidarity. Some people refer to being on a horse as riding. Riding refers to travel, a journey, to be carried, a

by Deb Kitchenmaster

trip or an outing.

Unity refers to a willing communication between horse and human; a dance that requires focus, balance and rhythm.

An acronym for Unity could be U nderstanding, Noticing, Insightful information, Timing, Yourself/ Your horse.

spent a week with us. One afternoon, there were four horses out in pasture and four of us to bring each into their stalls. The boys dropped me off at the gate while they went to get halters. As I was bringing my mare into the barn, I looked over my shoulder to see eleven-yearold Evan walking out in the pasture with his rope halter, and lead rope draped over his shoulder. I wondered if Evan ‘remembered’ how to put the halter on. I thought, “Interesting!” Com-

Three of our grandsons came this summer and

ing from the barn, I saw something that is tattooed on the fabric of my memory forever. It was Evan walking across the pasture with his halter still draped over his shoulder with his horse walking right beside him, and her head dropped at the level of his right shoulder.

UNITY! WILLINGNESS! COMMUNICATION between human and horse!

I waited at the gate. Evan said, “Mamaw, I didn’t remember how to put the halter on, so I told my horse I needed her to just come

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with me to the barn, and she did!” It was the position of the horse with the human that makes this story so beautiful. One of the most important things to understand with your connection with your horse is that this is an individual process.

It has to come right out of the inside of the individual.

Real learning has to come from within oneself. This is what I mean by “IN- sightful” information.

The opposite of Unity is disagreement or discord.

There will be moments where there aren’t shared aims or a team spirit between you and your horse.

It is in these moments one needs to remember that sometimes going slow is the quickest way to get back into agreement. When you learn to wait and enter into an awareness of timing, you may observe frustration and fear within yourself or your horse being replaced by knowledge and trust. Confusion becomes confidence, and discord becomes harmony. Focus on the picture of what “could be.”

This fall of 2012, may you enjoy the goodness of unity between you and your horse as you accept, recognize and appreciate the uniqueness in you and your horse!

Your NEIGHbor, Deb Kitchenmaster Corral Connections: Connecting with LIFE through a horse Animal B.E.S.T practitioner dkitchenmaster@mchsi.com

September 21 - October 4, 2012

Health and Fitness

Is A Low Glycemic Index Diet A Good Choice For You?

by Janet Hunt

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

A glycemic index diet uses the glycemic index, whereby foods and beverages are ranked based on how they affect blood sugar levels. Foods that contain carbohydrates are scored on a scale of 0 to 100. You can find extensive food lists online and in books, but many foods remain unranked.

Manufacturers can pay to have their brand-name products ranked by Sydney University Glycemic Index Research Services in Sydney, Australia, which maintain a database of glycemic index values for carbohydratecontaining foods. http:// w w w. g l y c e m i c i n d e x . com/ Sydney University’s glycemic index website doesn’t promote specific commercial weight-loss plans or label carbs as good or bad. Rather, it recommends that you use the glycemic index to help you choose what foods to eat and suggests that you:

may have positive results because the GI diet is easier to stick to for the long term since it’s not considered an extreme diet.

The bottom line is that to lose weight, you must reduce the calories you take in and increase the calories you burn. Tradition-

al recommendations for weight loss advise losing 1 to 2 pounds a week by reducing calories and fat and emphasizing complex carbohydrates.

Concerns With Glycemic Index Diet: Glycemic index doesn’t

rank foods according to how healthy they actually are.

Some foods with a lower GI ranking may, in fact, be less healthy because they contain large amounts of calories, sugar or saturated fat, especially packaged and processed foods. Both potato chips and ice cream, for instance, have a lower glycemic index ranking than do baked potatoes, even though baked potatoes are generally considered healthier.

Glycemic index ranks foods independently. In reality, how your body absorbs and handles carbs

depends on how much you eat; how the food is ripened, processed or prepared, the time of day it’s eaten, other foods you eat it with, health conditions you may have, and more.

So the glycemic index may not give a completely accurate picture of how one particular food affects your blood sugar.

You may find it difficult to follow a GI diet on your own. Most foods aren’t ranked by glycemic index. Packaged foods don’t generally list their GI rank on the label, and it can be hard to estimate what it might be. And for some types of food, the glycemic index database has multiple entries — you may not be sure which entry is accurate.

For more information regarding a glycemic index diet or weight management classes, contact Janet Hunt.

•Focus on breakfast cereals based on oats, barley and bran •Choose breads with whole grains, stone-ground flour or sourdough •Eat fewer potatoes •Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables •Avoid oversized portions of rice, pasta and noodles Commercial diets that are based on the glycemic index say that you’ll lose weight without having to count carbs or calories.

Results from research studies are mixed.

Weight loss results with a glycemic index (GI) diet

September 21 - October 4, 2012

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Page 19

Athens Rehabilitation and Senior Care Center Spotlight on Victor Vargas

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Victor Vargas was born in Puerto Rico on September 11, 1925, and between then and now has led a most fascinating life. As a young boy, he came to New York with his mother, was there for a short time, and then returned to Puerto Rico. While in New York he was able to skip several grades, and when he returned to New York a second time at the age of 15, he already had two years of college under his belt.

He has had a lifelong love affair with electronics, radio communications and structural engineering. He was drafted during WWII, and served in the Air Force. He was promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant within 3 years, and the entirety of his military career occurred stateside.

“I wanted to go overseas, but they didn’t let me,” he said, and judging this man’s sense of adventure, that must have been tough.

“Oh,” he said, “and the

sand storms in Yuma were terrible!” He worked on B25s, and excelled in target shooting as well as the use of the bayonet.

In 1947 he married Anna Josefa Mendoza, a widow who had one son. He was utterly in love with her, expected to spend the rest of his life with her, and then tragedy struck.

The only child they

had together, a daughter, was still born. Determined to press on and build the American Dream, Victor drove a taxi while he went to Columbia University, and Anna Josefa worked was a nurse. His heart broke once again in 1955 when Anna Josefa died of leukemia.

Victor spent his career in aerospace as well as working for the TVA. He was also employed by Northrup and Boeing, and during the ‘60s lived and worked in Coco Beach, FL. He married again in 1959, and he and his second wife, Lydia Amalia, added a daughter to their blended family. His time at TVA was from 1969 to 1988. It isn’t often that I get to talk to someone who has such an appreciation for the technology that enabled us to break the sound barrier, and when I told him my father had worked for Boeing on the Supersonic Transport, (which never flew, by the way,) his eyes twinkled.

So, on to Victor’s favor-

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ites. His favorite President? FDR, and then Ronald Reagan. Victor says he knew the Reagans while he was working in California, and he also claims to have known Bob Hope and his wife, Delores. His favorite food? He has many, but tamales are up there near the top. His favorite film?

Gone With The Wind. His favorite songs? Sixteen Tons and The Battle Hymn Of The Republic. He is an avid karaoke fan and when I interviewed him, was sporting his gold medal from the Athens Rehab and Senior Care Center’s domino tournament. His favorite book? La Biblia Santa, or in English, the Holy Bible.

As I am always glad to report, he is happy with the care he gets at Athens Rehab, although I think he would like to be able to have more Puerto Rican food.

His advice for young people? “Get an education.

If you have an education, there is nothing you can’t accomplish.”

September 21 - October 4, 2012

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Page 21

Medical Update

Medical Identity Theft Rising: Steps To Protect Yourself courtesy ARA Content

(ARA) - Two million Americans fall victim to medical identity theft each year, according to a study by the Ponemon Institute, commissioned by Experian’s ProtectMyID. While medical identity theft costs victims an average of $22,346, the potential impact can be far greater - medical identity theft could cost some victims their health, or even their lives.

Medical identity theft involves the theft of personal information - such as your name, Social Security number or Medicare number - to obtain medical care, purchase drugs or submit false claims to Medicare.

The crime can damage a victim’s credit rating and even be life-threatening if it causes incorrect information to appear in a victim’s personal medical records, warns the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG).

According to the study, while more Americans now understand just what medical identity theft is, few are taking the key steps that could help prevent it.

Only 57 percent of survey

respondents check their medical records for accuracy, and nearly one in five (18 percent) say they don’t care about the accuracy of their medical records.

identity thieves often try to scam consumers by posing as representatives of insurance companies, doctor’s offices, pharmacies and even government agencies.

“There are specific things that people can and should do to protect themselves from medical identity theft,” says Ken Chaplin, senior vice president of ProtectMyID. “People have to be vigilant with their personal information and avoid letting their guard down, even with family and friends.”

* Protect your information.

Keep paper copies of medi-

The Federal Trade Commission recommends you take these steps to help prevent medical identity theft: * Before you share medical information with anyone, verify who you’re talking to.

Never provide information over the phone or through the mail unless you initiated the contact and you’re confident you’re dealing with a legitimate organization. Be aware that medical

cal or insurance records and forms in a secure, locked file or drawer. When managing your health or insurance accounts online, be wary of any site that asks you to share sensitive information like your Social Security number, insurance account number or details of your medical conditions.

Look for the hallmarks that

a website is secure, including a web address (URL) that begins with “https” (the “s” stands for “secure”) and a lock symbol in the lower right-hand corner of the page. * Picking through trash is

a common ploy of identity thieves. Shred your discarded health insurance forms, bills and medical records before disposing of them. Destroy the labels on your prescription pill bottles and packages before throwing them away.

The OIG also offers tips for medical identity theft protection, including: * Treat your Medicare and Social Security numbers and cards as carefully as you would your credit cards. * Be wary of anyone who asks for your Medicare number in exchange for “free” medical equipment or services. If what they’re offering is really free, they shouldn’t need your numbers. * Never let anyone use your Medicare ID card.

The Ponemon survey

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found that a growing number of survey respondents (5 percent more in 2012 than in 2011) have allowed a family member to use their personal identification to obtain medical services, including treatment, healthcare products or pharmaceuticals. Doing so is against the law, and may afford unscrupulous individuals the chance to use that information for unauthorized purposes.

According to the Ponemon survey, it takes, on average, about a year to resolve an instance of medical identity theft, and a quarter of the survey respondents said it took more than two years.

As with a serious medical issue, resolution can be made more challenging depending on how long the problem is allowed to fester.

Take an active role in protecting your medical information from identity thieves. Check your medical records regularly and keep an eye on all your financial and credit accounts.

Products like ProtectMyID can help. A comprehensive identity theft detection, protection and resolution product, it can help you prevent the damages caused by identity theft.

“Medical identity theft hits consumers both medically and financially,” says Dr. Larry Ponemon, chairman and founder of the Ponemon Institute. “For three years in a row, our findings have consistently shown that medical identity theft crime continues to increase in terms of prevalence and costs to the victim.”

September 21 - October 4, 2012

Security Savvy

Game Day Safety

by Brian Black

Jim Doyle is still on the mend, so this week’s column is written

by Brian Black, an employee of Madison Security Group.

It’s football time! Whether you go to your local high school game, Tuscaloosa, Auburn, Nashville or Atlanta, there are some things you need to do to make sure you have an enjoyable time, and not have the unexpected loss of property or injury while at the game. Much like a coach prepares his team for all situations on the football field, you need to be prepared for all situations when attending the game.

One of the first things you need to be aware of is traffic flow in and out of the stadium area. Make sure you know what roads are inbound and outbound to the stadium, and remember on game day streets that are normally two-way may become one-way streets. When you arrive and are looking for a place to park, make sure you park in a welllit area. This will help you

find your vehicle after the game. It also will provide a safer environment in which to park, since most well-lit areas will have some time of security presence, (either

cameras or roving patrols.)

We all want to park as closely to the stadium as possible, and most of the time, stadiums have businesses and homes close by. You may be tempted to park in these

September 21 - October 4, 2012

private property areas, but be careful if you do. Most businesses do not allow game day parking and may have your vehicle towed at your expense. If you de-

cide to park at someone’s house, there is no guarantee that the home owner will protect your property, and it is doubtful that their homeowner’s insurance will cover any damages. Make sure that you place your

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valuables in the trunk of your car or cover any items that you may leave in your vehicle. This way, when people look into your vehicle, it will be harder for them to know what you are leaving behind.

Ladies, if you carry a purse, when you are walking to the stadium, place the strap over your neck and carry the purse between your elbow and body. Men, place your wallet in the front pocket of your pants, and if possible, take very little cash with you. Keep your children within arm’s reach at all times, and never let them wander unattended. Walk to the stadium using well-travelled paths, and don’t go through areas that are not sufficiently lit. Be aware of those who are nearby, as you never know who is watching and waiting for you to make a

mistake.

When you arrive at the stadium, keep your family close together. Use cash to make your purchases and be careful not to show your cash.

Remember, not everyone at the game is there to watch the game! When you find your seat, you should still be aware of those around you, but at this point, you can sit back and enjoy the game, knowing you have done all you can do to protect your family and property. After the game, you need to be on alert again. Wait in the stands to let the crowds move out so there is less risk of getting injured as the crowds leave. If you use the same precautions leaving the stadium as when you arrived, you should have an enjoyable time without any incidents.

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