Murray Life Magazine Summer 2011 by Helix Creative, LLC

What’s Inside

The Secret Forest Logan Abbitt

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VOLUME 16 - NUMBER 2 - SUMMER 2011 Printed in the USA www.mymurraylife.com

Community Gardens Managing Editor Robert Valentine

Kyser Lough

Associate Editor/Operations Manager Logan Abbitt

Fruit of the Vine: Tomatoes Logan Abbitt

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Go Native in the Garden

Art Director Justin B. Kimbro, K-Squared Designs, LLC Assistant Artists Kyle Smith | Libby Files Amanda Newman | Vanessa Baker Sales & Marketing Rita Oldham | Tina Copeland

Aviva Yasgur Editorial Staff Logan Abbitt | Kim Cottingham Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Robert A. Valentine Notes N’ Neighbors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Murray Life Staff Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Sandy Linn Summer Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Kim Cottingham Pet Paws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Caina Lynch Count On It . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Murray Life Staff Home and Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Rupert Sebastian Savvy Shopper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Kim Cottingham A Laughing Matter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Murray Life Staff Ask the Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Jamie Lober

Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Adrianna Payne Uncommon Mystery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Michael Cohen Dining Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 From Fast to Fabulous Money Pages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Ron Arant Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 What’s Happening & Where

Day Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Erin Carrico Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Robert Valentine 2

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Murray Life is published five times annually for the Murray area. All contents copyright 2010 by Murray Life Productions. Reproduction or use of the contents without written permission is prohibited. Comments written in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the ownership or management of Murray Life. Subscription rate is $15.00 per year, two years $25.00. Subscription inquiries and all remittances should be made to Murray Life: 608-B Main Street, Murray, KY 42071. Subscriptions may also be made through the Web site, www.murraylifemagazine.com. All advertising inquiries should be directed to the Managing Editor at: Murray Life, or by calling 270-753-5225. E-mail us at: murraylife@aol.com This magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or artwork. All submissions may be edited for length, clarity and style.

Editorial

Summer “Summer,” it well and truly is, and “summer” is what we have experienced since spring began, it seems. Nevertheless, those “lazy, hazy, crazy days” of baseball, picnics, fishing and lawn mowing are with us again. Speaking of “mowing,” our issue this time focuses on plants: from weeds to woodlands, we’ll show you around the garden that is Murray, Kentucky. Kyser Lough joins us for this issue with a look, at community gardens. Whether you have a acre or an apartment, there’s an opportunity for you to bring flowers, fruits and vegetables right into your life “from the ground, up.” Our own Logan Abbitt toured the MSU Arboretum and discovered a wounded (from recent storms) but wonderful place that has an amazing future as a community resource. Kim Cottingham will fill us in on the evils of ivy as she joins with local physicians to explain the ins, outs, and ouches of the pernicious plant, poison ivy. And, of course, our foods column will examine that most popular of plant pleasures, the tomato. You think you know something about tomatoes? You’ll be surprised at what you can learn about these homegrown favorites. And, speaking of “homegrown,” Adrianna Payne shares her conversation with “visiting” lecturer Bob Norsworthy. Known as a New York heavyweight in the field of advertising, he’s actually from nearby Kirksey and still thinks of himself as a kid from Calloway County. His visit to Murray State this spring changed lives -- and may change his. There’s more, of course, from a rescued pup to make you smile to a long list of gardening jokes to make you laugh. We can’t begin to tell you everything in this issue, from our usual dining guides and popular calendar to the wonder of Mike Cohen’s tale of a mystery story that is a mystery in itself. This much is no mystery, however: it is summer, and cool evenings or pastel mornings need to be filled with a quiet read, from time to time. We hope this read will be easy, fun, and fulfilling. After all, it’s your “Murray Life.” O

Robert A. Valentine, Publisher

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Notes ‘n Neighbors

Murray/Calloway County Named Best Community merica’s Promise Alliance has named Murray/Calloway County one of "100 Best Communities for Young People." The annual competition, now in its fifth cycle, recognizes communities making extraordinary efforts to reduce dropout rates and provide outstanding services and supports to their youth. These communities have demonstrated a significant and lasting commitment to their youth for which they deserve to be recognized and commended. This is the fourth designation for the community and follows three consecutive “Top 100 Playful Cities” awards.

2010

COMMUNITY

The 100 Best Communities are intended to be representative of the nation as a whole. "The 100 communities presented here represent 37 states, from coast to coast," said Alma J. Powell, Chair, America’s Promise Alliance. "They come in all forms and sizes, from our largest cities to small towns, from counties to school districts. In fact, they look like America. They are the face of America. And what united them is a commitment deeply rooted in the American spirit." Past winners have ranged from small towns, such as a mobile home community in Minnesota; to some of the nation’s largest cities, including New York City, Chicago and Houston; to counties and school districts. The award named qualities such as public education, low crime rate, low cost of living and availability of affordable housing, along with “scenic beauty and a warm, inviting atmosphere.” The really impressive part of Murray’s presentation to the panel of judges, however, involved the community involvement in youth education, recreation, health, and opportunities for achievement outside of school.

The 2010 winners were highlighted at a September 21 ceremony in front of the Washington Monument on the National Mall in Washington, DC, with Alma Powell, Alliance President and CEO Marguerite Kondracke, and ING Foundation President Rhonda Mims.

WKMS News Wins Awards he Kentucky Associated Press has recognized WKMS News with several news awards, including four first place awards, in its 2011 Class II Radio category competition. WKMS was awarded with 1st Place honors for the following:

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Best Light News Feature: Jacque Day for "Kaeliegh's Heart"

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Best Use of Sound: Rebecca Feldhaus for "Glory Days at Fish Fry"

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Best Public Affairs Feature: Angela Hatton for "New CPR Method"

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Best Website: "www.wkms.org"

Matt

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for

WKMS Station Manager says, "We're grateful that listener support enables WKMS News to continue crafting excellent coverage recognized by the Kentucky Associated Press annually and regular compliments from our appreciative audience." Each story submitted by the WKMS News team received recognition in this year's competition. WKMS News operates from Murray State's public radio service and covers western Kentucky, southernmost Illinois, and northwest Tennessee. The WKMS News team is comprised of News Director Chad Lampe, News Producer and Morning Edition Host Todd Hatton, Reporters Jacque E. Day, Angela Hatton, Chris Taylor, and student interns. Rebecca Feldhaus is now reporting for the Paducah Sun.

Notes ‘n Neighbors

We Moved! urray Life’s editorial offices have recently moved to 105 N. 6th Street. Our mailing address remains the same as it has been for nearly 30 years: P. O. Box 894, Murray, 42071. The move has delayed our second issue of 2011 by a few weeks, so we’re glad to be back on the street and back on schedule.

Few people have occasion to visit a magazine, since the essence of our business is to bring the conversation to you. In the case of Murray Life, that’s something we’ve been happy to do since October of 1998. Just in case you need to make a visit, however, we thought we’d better let you know.

For quite some time, we’ve shared quarters in the “Old Kroger Building,” or “The Old Hopkinsville Federal Building,” depending on the age of the person you’re speaking with. In its present state it is the home of Western Kentucky Insurance, and Lindy Suiter and his associates have been excellent business neighbors. We extend our thanks to them, and to the hospitality of Parker Properties and the Parker family who were always supportive, encouraging and most cordial during our stay. We’re pleased to continue our association with K-Squared Designs in our new location, and we look forward to serving the community for as many dozens of years as Murray Life will be read by the town from which she takes her name.

Bloodworth Warren (Kilmer), Boyd (Yoakam) and Brady (Brown) soured by years of anger, Bloodworth's only solace is a budding relationship with Fleming (Thompson), the grandson he never knew. When Fleming meets Raven (Duff), the woman of his dreams, history threatens to repeat itself.

ocal celebrity W. Earl Brown just had his feature film, Bloodworth, released. Earl produced the film and adapted the screenplay from the novel Provinces of Night by William Gay. Bloodworth stars Kris Kristofferson, Hilary Duff, Frances Conroy and Reece Thompson. Val Kilmer and Dwight Yoakam appear alongside Earl Brown as the estranged brothers.

Bloodworth abounds with new music from Oscar® Winning Producer, T Bone Burnett. Kris Kristofferson creates and an original song, too, which is more than appropriate for a role people are saying he was born to play. Bloodworth opened to limited release, so you may have to wait for a DVD to enjoy this one. Look for it online!

It's been 40 years since E.F. Bloodworth (Kristofferson) abandoned his loving wife and sons for a life on the road. Now at the end of the line, Bloodworth reappears, forced to reckon with the stale aftermath of his departure. With his exwife Julia (Conroy) mentally destroyed, his three sons:

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Community

Summer Reading, Had me a Blast By: Sandy l. Linn hose who haven’t been to the Calloway County Public Library recently may be surprised at the changes that are taking place to increase the ease of use for patrons and to make more efficient use of space to accommodate the ever growing collections that the library offers.

Recently, library staff has been working on shifting books and materials in a number of areas to open up the adult non-fiction and large print areas. Also, a designated junior non-fiction section is being created, and the children’s and young adult areas expanded. The library is excited to offer a number of new programs for library patrons of all ages which will revolve around this year’s theme, "One World, Many Stories." The theme encourages readers to explore the marvelous stories that abound throughout the world. It also invites them to become more aware of the needs of children from other countries. The traditional Summer Reading Program will be held Mondays beginning June 6. This year, the program will return to the library meeting room with the addition of a third performance time. Summer Reading is a fun and entertaining program that promotes the enjoyment of the public library and reading during the summer recess from school. It is not a reading class, nor is it an instructional program. Children who participate in the program must be ages 5 through 12. Each Monday morning for four weeks, participants will enjoy an hour long program presented by a professional entertainer. This year’s scheduled performers are Chris Egleston, Zoofari, Mary Hamilton and MadCap Puppets. The fifth meeting day is the popular Read Mart. Summer Readers are encouraged to keep a reading log of library 8

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books that they have checked out and read. Reading logs can be traded in for book bucks, which can be spent on awesome prizes at Read Mart. Toddlers and preschool age children may attend Summer Story Time programs which will begin June 8th. Parents with Ones and Twos is a program designed for the very young child with a parent/adult and includes books, music activities and toy time. It will be offered on Wednesdays from 9:30 to 10:00. Preschool Story Time is designed for children age 3, 4 & 5. It includes picture books, stories, music, activities and crafts. A parent or adult does not have to attend with the child, however they must stay in the library. For children who are young threes, adult attendance is strongly encouraged. This program will be offered on Wednesdays from 10:30 to 11:15. Both programs have limited spaces and are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. CCPL will happily offer Tuesday sessions of these programs should interest and registration warrant additions. CCPL is pleased to introduce the addition of three new summer programs for the summer of 2011: Teen Summer Reading, Adult Summer Reading and Family Movie Afternoons. Teen Summer Reading will be offered for ages 13 through 17. The program is for teens that love to read and would like the chance to earn cool prizes this summer. When teens sign up for the program, they receive a prize, and each time they check out and read a library book, they can put their name in for weekly prize drawings. Those who read at least five books may put their names into a drawing for a grand prize. Teens are also encouraged to apply for this year’s Summer Teen Volunteer Program. For applications

and/or information, interested persons may contact Sandy Linn. Adult Summer Reading is for adults of all ages. Adults who sign up for this new program will also earn prizes and be eligible for weekly drawings. Those who read at least 10 books during the summer will be eligible to add their names for two grand prize drawings. A third grand prize drawing will be held for those filling out an adult reading bingo card, a tool for Adult Summer Readers who would like to venture out of their reading norm. Four Family Movie Afternoons will be offered on selected Wednesday afternoons from 3:00 to 5:00. All films will be family friendly and have either a G or PG rating. Families who wish to attend movie afternoons will pick up free tickets prior to the event. The free ticket also comes with a small popcorn and drink. Those wishing to participate must have a ticket, and attendance is limited. For more information about the library and library programs, you can visit the library at 710 Main Street, the web site at www.callowaycountylibrary.org, call 753-2288. O

Community

If you can read this ...

Sandy L. Linn works in Youth Services/Acquisitions at the Calloway County Public Library

• Students who reported having all four types of reading materials (books, magazines, newspapers, encyclopedias) in their home scored, on average, higher than those who reporter having fewer reading materials. • There are almost half a million words in our English Language - the largest language on earth. • Five to six year olds have a vocabulary of 2,5005,000 words. • The average student learns about 3,000 words per year in the early school years (8 words per day).

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Source: The Literacy Company

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Summer Safety

Poison, Poison Everywhere By: Kim Cottingham s fall approaches, many people begin to spend more time outdoors, enjoying the cooler temperatures, lower humidity and colorful foliage. Hiking, camping and horseback riding are just a few of the activities that allow you to enjoy nature. Fall is also a good time to trim overgrowth and prepare your yard for the winter. Be on the alert—being close to nature, whether in your backyard or in the great outdoors, increases your chances of coming into contact with those fiendish, rash-producing plants: poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac.

Because foliage is abundant in wooded and other natural areas, you may not notice the poisonous variety and accidentally rub against it. At home, cutting the leaves with a weed trimmer or burning them releases the oils that cause the inflammation. When the plants are burned, the oil becomes airborne, allowing it can be inhaled. This can cause a very painful reaction in the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. If you suspect you have come into contact with any of this irritating vegetation, avoid touching or bumping into anything, including other persons, any other fabric, furniture, or clothes. In less than 15 minutes, the plant’s oil can do its damage, although your skin’s

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Be on the alert—being close to nature, whether in your backyard or in the great outdoors, increases your chances of coming into contact with those fiendish, rash-producing plants: poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac.

reaction can be delayed by 24 to 72 hours, so quick action is necessary. Immediately take a shower, using soap, but not an alcohol-containing solvent, which can spread the oil. “Soap and water inactivate the oils,” says Dr. J. D. Outland, a Board Certified Dermatologist practicing in Murray. “Despite what you might hear, alcohol, kerosene, and other harsh chemicals are not necessary [to clear the skin of the plant’s oils].” Don’t assume you won’t be affected, as approximately 60 to 80 percent of the population will react to the

Summer Safety

You do have some treatment options: Benadryl or Zyrtec can be taken. According to Dr. Robinson, the Zyrtec treats a histamine receptor, which can be helpful in treating the itch. Check with your doctor before taking the two medicines simultaneously and ask about possible interaction with any other medications you are taking. Topical remedies include calamine lotions, Benadryl lotion and oatmeal baths. If your face is affected or the reaction is severe, you may need a prescription from your doctor. “Treating quickly can alleviate suffering and resolve symptoms more rapidly,” suggests Dr. Outland. “Prescription topical agents (creams and ointments) are much more potent and much more effective [than over-thecounter creams such as hydrocortisone].” Unfortunately, the irritation can last as long as one or two weeks. The National Park Service’s Office of Public Health recommends you visit your doctor if the rash affects a large area or if you have a fever.

Poison Oak substance. Wash the clothes and shoes you were wearing, being sure to use soap or detergent. In fact, even plants that have died back in the fall, or which have been treated with herbicides are a hazard. “Some people who are very allergic can still develop allergy from dormant plants, although the oil concentrations are much lower,” said Dr. Outland. If, despite your best efforts, you contract this pesky skin complaint, you can expect a rash consisting of dry, scaly, itchy red areas and blisters. You may have heard that the rash is contagious. According to Dr. William Robinson of Murray Medical Associates, only the oil can cause the itchy inflammation. A person’s skin can react to the oil even if it is on articles of clothing, furniture, and pets, though pets themselves don’t seem to be susceptible to its effects.

So, before heading outdoors, familiarize yourself with poison ivy, oak, and sumac. You may even want to take some photos of the offending foliage with you. Then lace up your hiking boots, pitch your tent, and enjoy the outdoors without bringing home an itchy souvenir. When working in your yard, wear gloves, cover your arms and legs, and use an appropriate weed treatment. Then relax and enjoy the rest of the beautiful fall season. Our thanks to National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of Public Health, and to local physicians Dr. J. D. Outland and Dr. William Robinson. Remember: when in doubt, consult a physician immediately. For extremely allergic persons, these common irritants can be very dangerous. O

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Pet Paws

Teca Niya: A New Breath By: Caina Lynch

n only a year, this wonderful dog has had three names, faced imminent death and had an amazing rescue and recovery. Here is Teca Niya’s story.

In Feb. 2010, an extremely thin, dehydrated young dog that was near death came into the Humane Society’s care. “We learned about a dog in distress on a Sunday when Karen Dowdy, one of our Animal Advocates, learned about a dog which was ‘about dead’ on the porch of a person who didn’t recognize the dog,” explained Humane Society Executive Director Kathy Hodge. “They didn’t know what to do and called for help.” Karen went to check on the dog and immediately knew that it might not make it until the veterinary clinic opened on Monday. It was a big dog, extremely thin, and so weak she had to be carried to the car. “We really couldn’t tell what breed she was at that time and thought she might be a very thin Great Dane,” Kathy said.

An emergency call was placed to Westside Veterinary Clinic where the dog, called Sadie, was put into the Humane Society’s Good Samaritan program. Sadie was assessed and treatment began. She was emaciated, dehydrated and hypothermic, so she was warmed and fluids were administered. Kathy noted, “After she was stabilized, Sadie was so grateful to have all the good food she wanted. In only two weeks, she had gained 25 pounds!” As she gained weight, it was almost immediately obvious that she wasn’t a Great Dane at all and was a mastiff or mastiff mix. Sadie was progressing well, so attention was turned to assessing other aspects of her health. What she had experienced so far would certainly have been enough, but then it was discovered that she was heartworm positive and would need treatment. While waiting for a potential adopter, Sadie was placed into a foster home with Terry Derting, a Murray State University professor and Humane Society volunteer, and her dog, Franklin. At first Terry kept the two canines in separate parts of the house both because of Sadie’s ongoing heartworm

Teca and Franklin (inset) Teca when she was first found 12

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Pet Paws

treatment and because Franklin, as a six-year-old Anatolian Shepherd, can be rather protective of his home. Although Franklin is a certified therapy dog and adores children and adults, he isn’t as thrilled about other dogs, especially one in his own home.

Even with all the precautions in place, Sadie’s introduction into her foster home was accompanied by some drama. She did not like being crated and, since she felt so much better, she popped open her crate and earned her second name, Pandora. On the night of her great crate escape, Pandora found something to nibble on – an entire bottle of canine pain medicine! Terry rushed Pandora back to the veterinarian. Thankfully the medicine had not digested in her system so, after staying the night for observation, she was released the next morning. Pandora was now allowed out of her crate and into a portion of the house where she and Franklin met for the first time through a four-foot-high dog fence. “Surprisingly, Franklin showed little hostility and Pandora seemed outgoing but not in a dominant way,” Terry said of the two dog’s first encounter. It was the beginning of a beautiful friendship between the two canines which helped Terry to make the big decision to adopt Pandora. At her adoption on July 20, 2010, the now healthy and happy dog earned her new and final name from Terry: Teca Niya, Lakota for New Breath. Terry said she chose this name because “she was literally breathing her last breaths when picked up by the humane society and then given a new breath of life afterwards.” Teca topped off a very eventful six months when, in August, she passed her AKC Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dog International tests. “Teca is very much a fun and loving dog. Regardless of any challenges, she is living a good life which she deserves and Franklin is rejuvenated now that he has a canine companion,” Terry says describing her canine family. With Terry and Franklin’s love and help, Teca Niya is making the most of her "new breath." O

To find your next furry family member, to make pet food or monetary donations or to ask questions regarding animal issues, contact the Humane Society of Calloway County, a United Way agency, at 270-759-1884 or humanesociety@murray-ky.net.Visit our website atwww.forthepets.org or stop by the office at 607 Poplar Street. w w w. m u r r a y l if e m a g a z ine . c o m

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This is medium level puzzle #15...Good Luck!

Instructions: Place the numbers 1 through 9 in each blank field. Each column (down), row (across) and 3x3 region must contain each of the numerals only one time.

Again, good luck! Where is the Solution? Not sure of your answers? Visit our Web site to check your solution. Go to www.murraylifemagazine.com and click the “Puzzle Solution” symbol. We’ll see you next issue with another great puzzle!

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Count On It

Seeds

Compiled by: Murray Life Staff

40 lbs: 3,070:

Seeds on an average Goldenrod

613:

200:

Average seeds per Pomegrante

260,000:

749: 95 lbs: 720,000:

Weight of the world's largest seed cone, Australian cycads

35 Million:

25,000: 2,000 years:

33,000: Corn seeds planted per acre

5 inches:

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Age of the oldest germinated seed discovered, a Judean date palm

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Home & Garden

Black Gold for your Garden By: Rupert Sebastian

hether you're starting a new garden or maintaining a long term project, you're going to create yard waste. At some point, leaves, weeds, grass clippings and more will get in the way and you'll have to do something with them. The temptation will be to throw them away, and if you give in to that temptation you will be throwing away one of your garden's greatest treasures: compost.

Composting transforms garden waste into healthy soil. Here's how it works: The carbon from your brown material (dead leaves), and the nitrogen from your green material (fresh grass clipping, food scraps) sit together at an increased temperature in the pile or bin. With frequent exposure to oxygen, the whole mix decomposes into a rich soil that is the perfect plant food. It takes thousands of years for the earth’s forces to build good soil, but we can greatly accelerate the process by using compost, which adds microorganisms, arthropods, worms, and humus to the soil.

nearby access to water for your compost pile or bin. It should be close to the house for convenience, but not so close that you can smell the decaying matter inside. A small, fenced area with no bottom allows worms and other beneficial organisms from the earth to work and aerate the compost. Eventually, you may want to consider setting up two compost areas: one that is being added to and one that is ready for use as fertilizer. Start your compost pile by lining the bottom of the area or bin with straw or other dry organic material. If you want to give your compost an extra boost to get going, you can purchase a compost starter additive. Compost starter is made up of enzymes and microorganisms that will get your compost churning. Depending on the amount you need, compost starter will cost $5 to $20. Another way to jump-start a compost pile is to add a very small amount of a fertilizer that's high in nitrogen. Remember to wear gloves and a mask when working with fertilizer.

Creating Compost

Farmers and gardeners refer to this nutrient rich soil as "black gold." You can use mature compost to enrich your gardens, improve the soil around your trees and shrubs, and more. The best part is that composting is easy, but it does require some work to be effective.

Pile vs. Bin You can start composting by simply creating a pile in the corner of your yard. While this is effective, it requires additional maintenance to turn the pile and ensure oxygen and temperature are evenly distributed. The recommended method is to use a compost bin which is specifically created for this purpose. Bins also keep odor contained and rodents out. You can purchase a bin for anywhere from $30 to $400, depending upon size, construction and functionality. Most bins are designed for easy mixing. Alternatively, you can build your own compost bin that will work just as well.

Now that the site is ready, you can start adding material. The thing to remember is that compost is not merely garbage; there's a formula at work here. Some things can be added while others cannot. There are two general categories of matter to add to the bin: Brown and Green. Brown materials include dead leaves and twigs. Green materials are a bit broader and more inclusive. Here is a condensed list:

Do Add … • • • • • • • •

Fruit and vegetable scraps Coffee grounds & tea bags Old herbs and spices Grass clippings Old flowers Brown paper bags Paper napkins Wood ashes

Preparing the Pile

Do Not Add …

Select a location spot that gets a lot of sunlight and has

•

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Meat, fat, grease, oils, bones

• • • • •

Home & Garden

Confounding Compostables

Diseased plant matter Treated wood Non-biodegradable materials Colored or glossy paper Coal or charcoal ashes

All of these are safe to add to your pile:

To see more exhaustive lists of what to add and what to avoid, visit www.compostinstructions.com. or www.plantea.com.

Ready to Use Compost is ready for use when the temperature in the pile drops to the temperature of the surrounding air. It should smell earthy, not sour or putrid. Mature compost looks like crumbly dark soil. Food items, leaves and grass will be fully decayed and unidentifiable as such. Compost has many uses in the garden. Spread it around plants that are already growing, or work it into the ground before you plant. It can be used as mulch around trees and shrubs to keep the moisture in and to prevent weeds from growing. It won't be long before your compost pile becomes one of the most important tools in your yard. O

•Plain cooked rice •Stale bread •Stale pretzels •Wine corks •Old jelly, jam, or preserves •Stale beer and wine •Toothpicks •Bamboo skewers •Used facial tissues •Hair from your hairbrush

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•Toilet paper rolls •100% Cotton cotton balls •Dryer lint •Pencil shavings •Receipts •Used matches •Fish food •Dry dog or cat food •Jack o' Lanterns •Natural holiday wreaths

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Savvy Shopper

For Swingers Only Compiled By: Kim Cottingham he National Golf Foundation calculates that over 27 million people in the United States play golf. That figure is expected to increase steadily over the next nine years to 30 million. With that in mind, we thought we would offer some tips on buying clubs—just in case some of our readers have recently taken up the sport or are thinking about joining the anticipated millions of new players.

One reason for the increase may be the changes that have been made to the equipment over the last few decades. Will Snodgrass, Director of Golf at Miller Memorial Golf Course, notes that technological developments in golf clubs and golf balls have had an enormous impact on the game. The club shaft, which was previously made of

wood, is now made of graphite and steel. The club head is bigger and made of titanium. These changes make the club more forgiving, which leads to a better game. A better game brings greater enjoyment to more golfers, including those whose skills may not have worked as well with the clubs and golf balls of a few decades ago.

“It's good sportsmanship to not pick up lost golf balls while they are still rolling.” – Mark Twain

So, with over 50 brands and thousands of club choices, choosing the right clubs can be overwhelming. You want to spend your money wisely and have the most benefit from your purchases. With all the options, how can you know which clubs are right for you? The Fitting Don’t just order on-line or buy at a shop until you have been fitted. Sherri Heeke, former LPGA Golf Instructor and Calloway County resident, stresses the importance of being properly fitted by a PGA professional trained in fitting a golfer for clubs. Having the clubs best suited to your swing and height will allow you to play your best. Playing your best allows you to better enjoy the sport. In addition to your swing and height, the length of your arms and how they hang affect your game and therefore your club selection. Another part of the fitting includes determining where your eyes are positioned over the ball. How the club sits on the ground, or the lie angle, affects the ball's flight. A proper fitting takes all of these things in to account to determine the right clubs for you. The Club Concerning the club shaft, several flex options are available, including Men’s, Women's, and Senior Flex, as well as Uniflex for men or women. Don’t be tempt-

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Savvy Shopper

“You're only here for a short visit. Don't hurry, don't worry. And be sure to smell the flowers along the way.” – Walter Hagen

ed to buy based solely on the clubs’ labeling, though. Women's clubs are not necessarily the right fit for all women and men’s clubs aren’t suited for all men. For example, while the women's clubs are the appropriate choice for many women, other golfers find the shaft has too much bend, or flex, and they may have just the right flex for some male golfers. Senior Flex clubs have more bend, which provides more torque, and some golfers other than seniors find these are the clubs best suited to their game. Club selection should be based on your swing speed, type of ball flight, and even the length of your arms. This is why you must be fitted by a pro before buying clubs. Another consideration is expense. A steel shaft is less expensive and lasts longer. Then again, you need to decide which is more important: the cost of the equipment or the effect on your game. If a steel shaft doesn’t fit with your swing and other factors, you will play poorly or will avoid using the club altogether, and will have wasted your money. How Many Clubs? Now, how many clubs do you need? According to Dick’s Sporting Goods, when starting out, a golfer needs three woods, a collection of 3-9 irons, pitching wedge, sand wedge and a putter. Other clubs can be purchased as

Interested in Lessons or a Fitting? Sullivan’s Par 3 Golf Course in Murray offers lessons and fittings. PGA professional instructor Lynn Sullivan provides club fittings for $20. If you decide to buy your clubs from his shop, the fitting fee goes toward your purchase. To schedule a lesson or fitting, call 270-753-1152. Miller Memorial Golf Course in Murray offers golf lessons for adults and youth ages 5-15. Summer youth classes will be held June 6-9. For more information, call 270-809-2238 or visit them on-line at www.millermemorialgc.com.

your skill level progresses. For beginners, or those with higher handicaps, the folks at Dick’s Sporting Goods recommend starting out with the 3-wood as the “off-the-tee-wood.” You may also want to include a 7 wood and a 9 wood in your set. After you’ve been fitted by a professional, you may want additional information on specific clubs. You can learn more at valueguide.pga.com which has photos and information on over 50 brands and over 6,000 models, including detailed descriptions of club size, material composition, and features. Manufacturer details, customer reviews, and current trade-in value for clubs listed are provided, as well as links to the manufacturers’ sites. You may also want to visit www.golf.com/ golf/equipment which describes, tests, and reviews equipment, including advantages and disadvantages. O

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A Laughing Matter

How Does Your Garden Grow?

Compiled by: Murray Life Staff Thousands of people enjoy gardening each year, and if you are fond of the outdoors, you may find yourself interested in gardening, too. It's a hobby that allows people to get in touch with the earth and themselves. Gardening is not an expensive hobby to start, but it may become expensive as you progress in the art of planting. Many people find gardening to be a relaxing hobby … but others find it to be an incredibly frustrating activity. ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° A perennial plant is one that, if it had lived, would have returned every year. ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° Gardening requires a lot of water - most of it in the form of perspiration. ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° Your first job is to prepare the soil. The best tool for this is your neighbor's motorized garden tiller. If your neighbor does not own a garden tiller, suggest that he buy one. ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° When weeding, the best way to make sure you are removing a weed, and not a valuable plant, is to pull on it. If it comes out of the ground easily, it is a valuable plant. ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° If I could only grow green stuff in my garden like I can in my refrigerator. ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° "Annuals" mean disappointment once a year. ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° Whichever garden tool you want is always at the back of the shed. ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° I started a rock garden last week. Three of them died. ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° A prisoner serving time received a letter from his wife. "I have decided to plant some lettuce in the back garden. When is the best time to plant it?" The prisoner, knowing that the prison guards read all the mail, replied "Dear Wife, whatever you do, DO NOT touch the back garden! That is where I hid all the gold." The next week, he received another letter from his wife. "You wouldn't believe what happened. Some men came with shovels to the house and dug up the whole back garden!" The prisoner wrote back "Dear Wife, NOW is the best time to plant the lettuce."

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e h S T e

est

F t o e r rc

By: Logan Abbitt

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The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The next best time is now. ~Chinese Proverb

Chances are good that you don't know about the Murray State University Arboretum. This amazing project has been in the works for years, but the community at large doesn't know it exists. It is time you planned a visit, though. Earlier this year, they completed a series of concrete walkways for â&#x20AC;Ś but I'm getting ahead of myself. Let's start at the beginning. WHAT IS AN ARBORETUM, ANYWAY?

Essentially, there are two types of public gardens. You may have heard of botanical gardensâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;large projects that create beautiful areas filled with bright flowers and scenery. You may even have visited The Western Kentucky Botanical Garden in Owensboro, one of the state's finest. The second kind of public garden is an arboretum, which focuses on woody plants, namely trees and forestation. Additionally, arboreta (the plural for arboretum) have a strong emphasis on education, with signs and information that explain what you're looking at as you walk through the grounds. This is not to say that the arboretum is not a beautiful area. It's just beautiful in a different, more natural and less manicured way. In fact, the Murray State Arboretum is already a favorite location for walkers, photographers, and people simply looking for a peaceful location to sit a read or meditate. Don't be surprised to see it listed as the location on the next wedding invitation you receive, either.

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LEARNING FROM THE TREES

While the arboretum is going to be an attractive enhancement to the Murray community, the real emphasis for the project is education. Students from the Murray State horticulture department use it as a lab setting and contribute to the grounds. Students of biology and wildlife will find themselves at the arboretum for classes, too. Already, high schools and elementary schools have brought entire classes out for a visit. In the future, they hope to have public tours and classes that anyone can attend. "The educational component is a huge, huge, part of the arboretum," says Dr. Pat Williams, Associate Professor of Horticulture.

"This is an ongoing project. It will never be finished. It's always changing and evolving." - Heather Blankenship Interim Director

FROM TINY ACORNS â&#x20AC;Ś

Egyptian Pharaohs are credited with creating the first arboreta when they planted exotic trees and cared for them, including ebony wood from the Sudan, pine and cedar from Syria. Murray State's plans don't go back quite that far, but this project has been developing for over a decade. An arboretum has been talked about for many years. The idea came about when the Pullen Farm was donated to the School of Agriculture by Mabel Pullen when she passed away in 1995. Ideas became plans, and plans became reality when the initial grant from the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund Board was submitted and approved in 2007. Work began immediately, and the groundbreaking took place in October, 2008. The Friends of the Arboretum kickoff was held in October, 2009. In the fall of 2010, the final phase of construction for the entire loop of sidewalks began. The official opening ceremony should take place this fall. An important thing to remember as we look at how it got started is there is no end in sight. "This is an ongoing project. It will never be finished," explains Heather Blankenship, Interim Director of the Arboretum. "It's always changing and evolving." Future plans involve the creation of at least five special garden areas, including a butterfly garden, a children's garden, and a savannah. 24

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GROWING INTO THE FUTURE

The goal is for the arboretum to become a popular destination for agritourism. Williams says, "We want gardeners and horticulture and plant lovers to come here just for the variety that's going to be offered." The working lab aspect should serve as an enticement to students, as well. "Everything here is student based. It's student driven," he says proudly. "As far the community outlet, we're standing in the pavilion that we hope to host many community events, from weddings to just educational events. We hope really just to be something that people want to come to." They've succeeded in creating a welcoming destination. Even the animals don't stay away. Already, you can see rabbits, squirrels, a wide variety of birds, and even the occasional fox in the garden. A large pond is in the plans, as well, which will entice even more fauna, and undoubtedly more humans. Make plans to see Murray State's Arboretum today. Then, see it again in summer, and the fall. The seasonal variety promises to give you a whole new experience on every visit. They're always looking for volunteers, too, so the opportunity to participate is there for everyone. You can learn more about the arboretum, including how to rent a pavilion for your event, by visiting their website at www.murraystate.edu/arboretum. You can also join the Friends of the Arboretum and help to get the word out about Murray's hidden grove. O

Storm Update Unfortunately, the arboretum did not escape the storms that hit this area at the end of April unscathed. Two of the largest, oldest trees were blown over by the devastating winds. A massive red oak came down in the first barrage, and the following storm took down a shagbrush hickory two days later. The nearby greenhouse also suffered some minor damage. Arboretum officials hope to use the downed trees to create benches for arboretum visitors and to use the wood in other projects. w w w. m u r r a y l if e m a g a z ine . c o m

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Community Gardens for ardening, as a hobby, has a lot going for it. There's the joy of working with your hands, the pleasure in working with nature, and the pride that comes from creating something beautiful. While most everyone can afford the simple tools needed, not everyone has access to the most important ingredient: space. That's starting to change. Several community garden initiatives have sprung up around Murray, offering gardening space and education opportunities to anyone wanting to start a garden.

The purpose behind a community garden is to allow those living in areas with limited growing space the chance to have a place to grow plants and produce. Jereme Rose, owner of Green Solutions Recycling, said he had this idea in mind when he began planning a community garden space on North 4th Street, behind the Murray Art Guild. “It’s great, especially if you don’t have the space to garden. Plus, it builds a sense of community,” Rose said. The garden consists of raised beds located in an area that used to contain a greenhouse. Concrete walkways span the length of the space. There are currently twelve 10’ by 3’ plots, but Rose said he hopes to add more in the future. For only a small donation covering use of the guild’s water supply, any interested gardener can secure a plot. Debi Danielson, director of the art guild, said she had wanted to re-purpose the area as a community garden

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and had two small beds there already. “The space lends itself to (gardening). It’s a good way to clean it up and put to use and is another opportunity for people in the community to get involved. It’s great if you’re new or hesitant to gardening- The bed is there, the dirt is there, it’s already been tilled and is ready to go,” Danielson said. Support for the garden has been provided through multiple organizations and businesses. Murray State University students involved in the Murray Environmental Student Society and Murray Christian Fellowship donated their time to construct the raised beds. Monetary donations from McConnell Insurance and McKinney Insurance and a dirt donation from Parker Excavation gave the students the supplies they needed. All that’s left is for gardeners to come plant the seeds and tend to the plants. Another community garden initiative new to Murray has a strong emphasis on community education in addition to raising plants. Sponsored by the Calloway County Cooperative Extension Office and a subcommittee of Murray in Motion, the garden is planned to be constructed in Chestnut Park. In April 2011, the Murray-Calloway County Parks board of directors gave their approval to utilize a portion of the park for the garden. LaDawn Hale, extension agent for family and consumer sciences, said the plans are to have a raised bed garden with the intention of educating kids where

the Garden Community By Kyser Lough

food comes from and showing families how to garden in a small space. Hale said she plans to host educational programs in conjunction with the space, including information about the nutritional value of homegrown food and how to prepare and preserve produce grown in the garden. “We want to use this as a teaching garden more than anything,” she said. Construction on the garden was expected to begin in late April/early May 2011, and Hale said she hopes to have it ready by summer 2011. She added that she is looking for donations of supplies to help get things up and running sooner. The garden will be located adjacent to a gravel parking lot on the south side of Payne Street, across from the park office.

Storm Update

The extension office already operates a school garden at East Calloway Elementary School, where students are taught how to grow and maintain plants. Over the summer when school is out, Hale said a Cub Scout pack waters the garden so the produce is ready for harvest when school resumes in the fall. A community garden for faculty and staff at Murray State University has been available at Pullen Farm on the corner of Hickory Drive and Locust Street for several years. George and Phillis Patmor serve as the community garden coordinators. “It’s a great opportunity for people that work at Murray State to have a place to experiment with gardening. We have new people every year who are starting their first garden,” Phillis said. Like other community gardens, participants in the MSU garden have access to a wealth of resources to help their garden succeed, including each other. Phillis said she and George regularly work with the gardeners to help them ensure successful gardens and answer any questions they may have. The program is popular enough with university workers that Phillis said they have already filled their allotted space for the 2011 growing season and are hoping to be able to expand. O

North 4th Street, Murray Art Guild Contact Rose at (270) 293-8901 or GreenSolutionsRecycling@gmail.com. Murray in Motion’s community garden initiative Contact Hale at (270) 753-1452 MSU Community Garden Contact George at george.patmor@coe.murraystate.edu

Kyser Lough is a photographer and reporter for the Murray Ledger & Times newspaper and enjoys focusing on the features and lifestyles side of Murray. He can be reached at KLough@murrayledger.com.

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Fruit of the Vine:

Tomatoes By: Logan Abbitt

ccording to legend, in 1820, Robert Johnson announced to a crowd of spectators in Salem County, New Jersey that he would do the impossible: he would eat a tomato and live. He addressed the crowd, saying â&#x20AC;&#x153;The time will come when this luscious scarlet apple will be the foundation of a great garden industry and will be eaten and enjoyed by all.â&#x20AC;? Clearly, he was mad. Thousands of eager spectators turned out to watch Johnson die. Women fainted. Colonel Johnson ate an entire basket of the poisonous fruits. Instead of dying, though, he merely wiped the juice from his mouth with a napkin and went on his way.

It is hard for us today to imagine a world without the ubiquitous tomato. The popular food is a part of so many of our favorite foods and cuisines, from pizza to hamburgers. No vegetable is

The Killer Tomatoes As odd as it may seem today, there was indeed a belief that the tomato was poisonous. The tomato plant is related to the belladonna, or deadly nightshade, plant, which is very poisonous. It was referred to as a wolf peach when it came to Europe, a name that stemmed from German myths about the nightshade and werewolves. The truth is that, as a member of the nightshade family, the tomato plant's roots and leaves contain the neurotoxin solanine, and thus are indeed poisonous. However, the fruit is completely harmless. In fact, it's very nutritious. Tomatoes contain vitamins A and C, and lycopene, one of the most powerful natural antioxidants you can find.

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used in so many ways as the humble tomato. We slice them, dice them, juice them and preserve them. They can be roasted, baked, broiled, stewed, canned, fried and dried. It is the primary ingredient of America's two favorite condiments, ketchup and salsa. Raw or cooked, in soups and sauces, we love tomatoes in every form. It is little wonder, then, that tomatoes are the number one garden crop in America. If you're growing vegetables in your garden, chances are that tomatoes are involved. Homegrown tomatoes have several advantages over store bought. They're fresher, the flavor is more intense, you can select the precise variety that you want, and you know exactly what has been used for pesticides, if anything. There are downsides, too. First of all, gardening isn't for everyone. You need space, and there's all that dirt, and the bugs, and the constant watering … ugh. Numerous tomato growing aids exist to help out, including the latest trend, upside-down tomato plants. New seeds and plant foods promise lots of big, luscious tomatoes, more than you could ever use! That's the biggest problem, of course. As much as we love our tomatoes, we always seem to grow more than can eat, and you can only give so many to your friends and neighbors. Here are a couple of our favorite recipes for you to try out. They'll put your tomatoes to good use!

Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Drying tomatoes at home is much easier than you think. You can create them right in your oven! The truth is, very few sun-dried tomatoes are actually dried in the sun. You can use any kind for this, but Roma tomatoes are recommended.

Ingredients • • •

small ripe tomatoes coarse sea salt extra virgin olive oil

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Preparation

Preheat oven to 200 degrees F., or the lowest setting possible. Clean the tomatoes and trim the stems from the ends. Cut each tomato in half lengthwise. Arrange the tomatoes, cut side up, side by side on cooking sheets. Do not allow the tomatoes to touch. Sprinkle with sea salt. Place in the oven and bake until the tomatoes are shriveled and feel dry, anywhere from 6 to 12 hours. Check the tomatoes from time to time: They should feel leathery, not brittle. Once dried, remove the tomatoes from the oven and allow them to cool thoroughly. Place dried tomatoes in sterilized jars and fill with olive oil to cover completely. You can add fresh herbs, such as basil, thyme or oregano, to the jar for extra flavor. ....................................................................................................

Pico de Gallo

A delicious, fresh alternative to salsa, pico de gallo is an easy dish to make with a variety of uses. Unlike salsa, pico is uncooked and has much less liquid. The flavor from the fresh vegetables really shines, and it's rarely hot, having few or no peppers. There are hundreds of variations on the basic recipe. I chose this one for the simplicity, and the satisfying addition of cucumber.

Ingredients • • • • • • • •

3 tomatoes, seeded and chopped 1/2 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded and chopped 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped 3 green onions, chopped 2 cloves of garlic, minced 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped, no stems 1 ½ teaspoons fresh lime juice salt to taste

Preparation

In a medium bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, garlic, onion, and jalapeno. Stir in lime juice and cilantro. Sprinkle with salt. Cover, and refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving, preferably overnight. Murray Life wants to hear from you. What's your favorite tomato recipe? Do you like the recipes here? Let us know what you think!

Fruit or Vegetable; Which is it? So, what exactly is it? Well, it's complicated. Depending upon whom you ask, it's both. Botanically, the tomato is a fruit: the edible, seed-bearing flesh of the ovary of a flowering plant. Culinarily, the tomato is a vegetable: a less sweet, savory food that can serve as a main course. Other foods in this situation include eggplants, cucumbers and peppers. There's a saying that might help you remember: "Knowledge is understanding that a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad." Legally, it gets more complicated, still. In 1893, the U.S. Supreme Court declared that the tomato is a vegetable. The court expressed that this was strictly for taxation purposes (tariff laws at the time imposed a duty on vegetables, but not fruits) and based upon use; it was not intended as a botanical reclassification. Furthermore, the tomato is the state fruit of Ohio, while it is the state vegetable of New Jersey. Arkansas declared a tomato to be the state fruit and the state vegetable. In a directive from 2001, the Council of the European Union stated that tomatoes should be considered fruits. I'm sure we haven't heard the last of this debate.

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Go Native in

the Garden

By: Aviva Yasgur

o you have a flower garden at your house? Do you wish that more birds and butterflies visited your yard? Do you wish your garden was easier to care for? Do you wish more of your plants were perennials that didn’t need to be replanted every year? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might be interested in “going native” in your garden.

Wait! Don’t stop reading! I’m not making a politically incorrect slur about your garden. When I say, “go native,” I mean that you can try planting native species of plants, or, in other words, plants that naturally grow in the wild in western Kentucky. Another name for this type of gardening is, not surprisingly, “native gardening.”

Why Go Native? Reason 1: It’s the ecology, stupid! Don’t worry, no one thinks you’re stupid – it's just a play on words with Bill Clinton’s famous campaign saying. But seriously, if you want to attract more birds, butterflies, and other backyard wildlife, native plants are the way to go. Birds and butterflies like native plants. When they are looking for food, native plants appeal to them. They are the plants that they are most familiar with and they easily recognize them as food sources. Think of it this way: When you are traveling, and you’re hungry for lunch, what do you look for? If you’re like most people, you look for a restaurant that you know you like. Maybe it’s Subway®, maybe it’s Wendy’s®, but it’s something familiar. It’s something that you know you like. Well, birds and butterflies do the same thing. When they’re flying around and they need food, they’re looking for something they recognize. They recognize

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native plants because they have probably encountered them growing wild in fields, forests, and other places. They might not recognize that exotic plant from Africa that your neighbor grows (as beautiful as it may be) as something good to eat. Birds and butterflies look for their familiar favorites, just like we do.

Reason 2: They’re from around here! As I’ve confessed in previous columns, I’m a “foreigner” here in Kentucky – I’m originally from New Jersey. Because of my accent (and perhaps strange appearance?) I often hear the phrase, “You’re not from around here, are you?” Well, the same can be said of a lot of popular garden plants. They’re not from around here. Many of them are cultivated plants that originate in places like China, Japan, and other exotic locales. And, not to be narrowminded and judgmental, but they often don’t take to our western Kentucky conditions perfectly. These foreign plants often need extra care – frequent watering, soil treatment, even being brought inside for the winter – to help them survive in this environment. Native plants don’t have this problem. They naturally grow here in western Kentucky and survive on their own in the wild here. They generally are more tolerant of our wet springs and dry summers, our soil, and our temperatures. This place is their natural home and they are suited to it. They don’t need extra doting and babysitting like a lot of exotic plants do.

Five Favorite Native Plants Here are a few suggestions for “going native” in your garden: Milkweeds (Asclepias species) Butterflies and hummingbirds both love milkweeds. Butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) has showy orange flowers and grows in sunny, dry areas. Swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) is pink and grows in wet areas. Monarch butterflies lay their eggs exclusively on milkweed plants.

Blazingstars (Liatris species) Blazingstars grow spikes of purple flowers that butterflies, especially monarchs, love. There are a number of blazingstar species to choose from. You can plant several varieties that bloom at different times throughout the summer.

Coneflowers (Echinacea species) These are large, showy flowers that provide nectar for butterflies and seeds for songbirds such as goldfinches. A few nice varieties are Glade Coneflower (Echinacea simulata) and Yellow Coneflower (Echinacea paradoxa). If you don’t deadhead them, birds will feast on the seeds in summer and fall.

Phlox (Phlox species) Phlox usually have pink or purple flowers. Hummingbirds love them! Wild Blue Phlox (Phlox divaricata) is easy to grow in a shady garden and blooms for 3-4 weeks in April. Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata) blooms in summer and is a hummingbird and butterfly magnet!

Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) This shrub usually grows in wetland areas but can tolerate a wide variety of soils. Its round, golf-ball-sized flowers attract swallowtail butterflies. It does not seem to be susceptible to many garden pests.

Reason 3: It’s the economy, stupid! This time, I actually mean the economy. Native gardening is good for your pocketbook. Why? Because most native plants are perennials, which means they come back every year. You only need to plant them once. Many non-native garden plants are annuals, which means that you have to re-plant them every year. Which means that you have to re-buy them every year. In the long run, going native will help you save O money.

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Ask the Doctor

Saving Sight By: Jamie Lober he eyes are fascinating. They are considered our dominant sensory organ, for we humans are visually-oriented creatures. The eyes are also extremely fragile. As we age, our eyes become susceptible to a host of ailments. Believe it or not, though, you have the power to save your sight.

Everyone can do his part to promote good eye health. “A good strategy is to protect your eyes with sunglasses that have UVA and UVB protection which has been proven to help prevent cataracts from developing,” said Dr. David Bryson, ophthalmologist at Hart Ophthalmology Associates. If you are doing a sporting event or activity that involves high velocity, it is important to have impact-resistant, shatter-proof eye protection. If you have a prescription, continue to get checked every couple of years because your vision can change and you want to be up to date.

Adults are not the only ones who should make vision a priority. “Kentucky passed a law that before a child can go into any kind of class, be it preschool or kindergarten, he has to have an exam from an eye doctor because some things can be permanently blinding if not caught early,” said Bryson. Kids are usually okay in terms of their eyes, but that is why the doctors screen. If you think you can see, check again. “It is recommended that even healthy people have their eyes checked at least once every two years, even if they feel their eyes are fine, because the eyes can be a pathway to see other disease processes, especially when dilated and looking at the back of the retina,” said Bryson. For a delicate, small organ, the eyes provide a lot of insight. “There are times we can look at the back of the eye and see problems people did not know about be it anemia, blood clots, diabetes, high blood pressure or a whole host of things." Once you are over fifty or fifty-five, you should see the ophthalmologist every year because, during that time, eye troubles are more prevalent. If a problem is detect-

ed early, there is much that can be done to improve the outcome. Often, people are surprised at the results of an exam. “People do not necessarily know they have a problem, especially with glaucoma, which is a silent killer of vision,” said Bryson. Most people with glaucoma never feel the pressure in the eye, and it does not affect the vision that is used for fine detail until late in the disease process. “Glaucoma takes away the outer, or peripheral, vision early on until you are wound down to having tunnel vision, so people can lose a lot of vision and not know it because they do not feel it.” It is easily preventable if you can catch it early and treat it with eye drops or surgical treatment. When you know what the exam entails, you may feel more comfortable. Bryson explains, “If vision is not normal or what we consider to be perfect or 20/20, we do refraction, which means assessing the need for possible glasses or contacts to see if it improves; we assess the pressure in the eye which can help be a marker for glaucoma, and we check the pupil function which can be a marker for nerve damage.” The eyes are also checked for motility making sure that we have full range and that they are lined up together. “We examine the eye with a microscope to look closely at the internal structures and then we dilate the eye to completely examine the retina in the back of the eye.” If the doctor recommends something to support your eyes, use it. “One common thing people have as they get over about forty is the need for reader glasses or cheaters as they call them,” said Bryson. Despite what some people believe, they are not harmful to use and it is impossible to become too dependent on them. Thanks to advances, people are seeing better. “Surgeries are continuing to advance in terms of getting smaller and less invasive on patients and there is more we can do with lasers that we did not used to be able to do,” said Bryson. There are also more medications and better treatments for macular degeneration compared to the past. Remember that understanding the value of vision and taking responsibility for making an appointment with an ophthalmologist may be sight-saving. O Jamie Lober is a nationally known speaker and writer with a passion for providing information on health topics A-Z. She is president of Talk Health with Jamie and can be reached at talkhealthwithjamie@gmail.com.

The information included here is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult his or her healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation or if they have any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment plan.

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Profile

The Kid from Kirksey By: Adrianna Payne obert Norsworthy is a very influential man, who has been in the advertising business for 43 years. He currently holds the prestigious title of Executive Vice President of Omnicom Group, a strategic holding company that manages a portfolio of global market leaders.” Essentially it is a group of companies that have hundreds of offices in over 75 countries that provide many services that vary from advertising, marketing services, specialty communications, interactive/digital media to media buying services, the largest of its kind in the world. That's not bad for a farm kid from Kirksey who attended Kirksey High in the 1950s.

After military service, he graduated in 1963 from Ferris State University in Traverse City, Mich., as a vocational teaching major. He became heavily involved in politics, and even worked on political campaigns for Governor George Romney of Michigan, who later became a candidate for President of the United States. He produced a successful speech at a major fundraising event in Detroit. This was not your average fundraiser, with some of the most prominent industrialist businessmen of the time such as Henry Ford, Walker Cisler, and Max Fisher in the audience. Sure enough, his hard work did not go unnoticed. Norsworthy was

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approached by the head of the James Walter Thompson (JWT) advertising agency with one simple question: “What are you going to do when this campaign is over?” Norsworthy, 30 years old at the time, answered, “I don’t know.” He met the executive in his office on a Saturday morning and was hired on the spot. He became Account Supervisor on the Ford Account and worked in offices in Detroit, Cincinnati, Chicago, and Los Angeles. After 20 years with JWT, and ten years on the same account, he saw the need for a change in his life. In 1977, Norsworthy moved to New York and began working for Ogilvy and Mather, an international advertising, marketing and public relations agency. He diligently worked there for ten years, then was let go from that job at 60 years old. He was devastated, but knew he had already experienced a great career. He toyed with the idea of retirement until he met John Wren, President and Chief Executive Officer of Omnicom Group. Norsworthy started Omnicom at 60 years old, assuming he’d be there five years or so. Instead, he’s been there for 13 years. “I am one of the few people in the United States who can say, in 43 years in this business, there’s never been a morning that I didn’t want to go to work,” he told us. As he begins to approach the end of his brilliant

Profile career, he is finally starting to make plans for retirement in a few years. He jokes that he has no hobbies, but says he is “the type of person that has to get up and go to work every morning.” He is adamant that he will not “lie around, start taking naps, and die.” Since Norsworthy is originally from Kirksey, which is only about five miles outside Murray, he has decided to retire here. His family has a 165 acre farm in Kirksey, which goes back five generations.

He says he enjoys teaching and when he retires in a few years he hopes to be able to teach as long as he is able to. In just one semester he has made himself at home at Murray State University. The faculty, staff, students, and alums are very honored to have Norsworthy as a part of the Racer Family. He is “incredibly impressed with the content of classes, the passion of the professors, and the eagerness of the students” at Murray State University.

Murray State University has a highly accredited Journalism and Mass Communications program which includes Advertising, Public Relations, Journalism, and TV Production majors, and Graphic Communications Management as an area. Norsworthy was intrigued. He saw this as an opportunity to retire from the business, and still continue to do something which he is very passionate about. He contacted Dr. Bob Lochte, telling him that he’d be interested in teaching here for a semester. Dr. Lochte immediately set up a meeting with Norsworthy and Gill Welsch, Senior Lecturer and Head of Advertising. Together they decided he could be a “Guest Lecturer” for the spring, 2011 semester.

So, in the end, Bob Norsworthy may be coming home to Calloway County, but he won't be coming to sit on the porch. One of the biggest names in advertising is already a beloved member at Murray State, and a regular for breakfast at the Kirksey store. Who knows what's next for the kid from Kirksey? O

While teaching here at Murray State University, he is also enjoying his break from the business of New York. He and his wife have enjoyed many activities here, such as the Shakespeare Festival, the Ben Stein lecture, and have attended every home basketball game, feeling right at home like a true Murray State Racer! He even commented that they’ve done more in Murray than they get to do in New York. Norsworthy has been a liaison between students and alums and the people in the industry. Not only does he teach his students the craft of advertising, but he even lets them in on a few secrets of the business. • Diligence is the most important characteristic if one plans to succeed in the advertising business. • “You should be first in the office in the morning, last to leave at night. Beat your boss to the office and NEVER leave as long as your boss is in the office.” • “God gave you two ears and one mouth for a rea son… because you are supposed to listen twice as much as you talk.”

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| Murray Life Magazine

Uncommon Mystery

The Mystery of Edwin Drood (1870), by Charles Dickens By: Michael Cohen he book with the most legitimate claim to being called The First English Murder Mystery Novel is Charles Dickens’s The Mystery of Edwin Drood. It also has a good claim to being called the greatest mystery, because we don’t know how it turned out, and we never will. Dickens wrote only half of it, and died just before completing the sixth monthly installment. Yet the book, incomplete as it is, still is read with interest today.

Briefly, the plot is as follows. John Jasper, the choirmaster at Cloisterham Cathedral, is an opium addict. He seems to love his young nephew, Edwin Drood, but in fact plots to kill him because Jasper loves Drood’s fiancée Rosa. Jasper’s plan is to lay the blame at the door of an orphan pupil of one of the cathedral’s priests, a young man who has shown that he has a hot temper and also an interest in Drood’s fiancée. On Christmas Eve, after dining with his uncle and the young man just mentioned, Drood disappears. There is no arrest but much suspicion in Cloisterham. A stranger, obviously a detective, begins to poke around the town. He finds some important clues, and there the action ends. The mystery rests not only in the incompleteness of the text, but in its indeterminateness. Did Jasper indeed do away with Drood, as the reader suspects and as Dickens’s publisher said was the author’s intention; or did the author decide to go in another direction with, perhaps, Drood’s surprise reappearance later? And is the detective, as many readers have suspected, in disguise and a character earlier introduced in the book—perhaps a principal such as the suspected young man or even Drood himself? When we speak of mysteries as a genre of popular fiction, we are talking about books in which the mystery is solved. With Drood we have a true mystery, and many readers have enjoyed the challenge of attempting to fathom the mind of the dead author. Of course, the book also has the usual variety of Dickensian types and eccentrics. There is also what I would call an uncommon point of view about the nature of crime. Dickens does not believe, as, for example, Dostoyevsky does, that the criminal mind is interesting because it is so like our own—in fact is our own, if circumstances are right. He thinks it is a "horrible wonder apart" from our own. What could an innocent person “know of the criminal intellect," Dickens writes, "which its own professed students perpetually misread, because they persist in trying to reconcile it with the average intellect of average men, instead of identifying it as a horrible wonder apart." Michael Cohen has been doing a feature commentary, “Uncommon Mysteries,” on WKMS for several years. These short mystery reviews focus on the unusual or uncommon stories which may be a deviation from conventions of the mystery genre, an odd viewpoint or historical first, or a new twist on an old plot device, such as the locked room murder or the unwilling amateur detective. This is an excerpt from Cohen's forthcoming collection of reviews. O

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| Murray Life Magazine

Seen Around Town

Visit us online at :: www.wallappeals.com

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Murray Dining Guide ith each issue we are including a comprehensive list of the wonderful places where you can eat in Calloway County and the surrounding area. We’re hoping this will serve as a reminder to our residents that you don’t have to go far for a great meal, and will offer some help to visitors and newcomers.

We think you’ll find pleasure in the wide variety of styles and locations available to you. Our listing is organized by categories of style so you can easily choose the dining that suits your taste. If your favorite restaurant isn’t listed, please let us know. We’ll do our best to keep up. Enjoy! Los Portales 506 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . ...(270) 767-0315

Applebee’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill 816 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-5551

Asian Buffet 638 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-3788

August Moon 1550 Lowe’s Dr. . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-4653

Baldy’s Grill 901 Coldwater Rd. . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 762-0441

Big Apple Café 1005 Arcadia Circle . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-8866

El Mariachi Loco 406 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-9000

El Tequila 716 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 767-0026

Gloria’s World Village Food

200 N. 15th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-3406

Olive Pit 905 Mineral Wells Ave. . . . . . .(731) 642-5030 Paris, TN

Shogun 706 N 12th St., Suite 9 . . . . . . .(270) 761-7486

1051 N 16th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 762-0040

Tom’s Grille 501 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-4521

306 Gilbert St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 492-6284 Hazel, KY

La Cocina Mexicana 501 S. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 767-1627 Murray

La Cocina Mexicana 314 Main St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (270) 492-6392 Hazel, KY

500 Eagle Nest Rd. . . . . . . . . . .(731) 642-6192 Buchanan, TN

Kentucky Dam Village 166 Upper Village Dr. . . . . . . . .(270) 362-4271 Gilbertsville, KY

4645 Hwy. 119 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(731) 232-8323 Buchanan, TN

Willow Pond Catfish Restaurant 16814 Hwy. 68 E. . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 474-2202 Aurora, KY

Tumbleweed Southwest Grill 807 Walmart Dr. . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 873-2300

Vitello’s Italian Restaurant 216 N. 15th St.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-3663

Ann’s Country Kitchen 318 Main St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 492-8195 Hazel, KY

305B S. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-0000

Magnolia Tea Room

Eagle Nest Marina & Dockside Bar and Grill

Largo Bar & Grill The Keg

HRH Dumplin’s

506 N. 12th St. Suite E . . . . . . . .(270) 761-8424

2740 Cypress Trail . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 436-5496 New Concord, KY

Quarters

124 N. 15th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-3233

Jasmine Restaurant - Thai & Asian Cuisine

Cypress Springs Resort

Aurora Landing Restaurant 542 Kenlake Rd. . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 474-2211 Aurora, KY

Belew’s Dairy Bar US Highway 62 East . . . . . . . . .(270) 354-8549 Aurora, KY

Brass Lantern 16593 Hwy. 68 E. . . . . . . . . . . . . 270-474-2773. Aurora, KY

Cindy’s on the Barge 888 Kenlake Marina Ln. . . . . . .(270) 474-2245 Hardin, KY w w w. m u r r a y l if e m a g a z ine . c o m

Bad Bob’s Bar-B-Que 806 Chestnut St. . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 767-0054

Coldwater Bar-B-Que & Catering 8284 Hwy. 121 N. . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 489-2199

Cracker Barrel 650 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 762-0081

Crossland Diner 3034 Stateline Rd. W. . . . . . . . .(270) 492-6424 Hazel, KY

Domino’s Pizza 117 S. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-3030

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Seen Around Town

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Murray Dining Guide Happiness Restaurant 412 Main Street . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 293-4952

Spanky’s 9505 Hwy. 641 N. . . . . . . . . . .(731) 247-5527 Puryear, TN

Holmes Family Restaurant 1901 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 767-0662

2667 St. Rt. 94 E.. . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-4826

Tom’s Pizza 506-A N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-9411

Laird’s Bar-B-Que

7010 Hwy. 94 W. . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 435-4500

Martha’s Restaurant 1407 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-1648

Mary’s Kitchen 11205 Stadium View Dr.. . . . . .(270) 759-2036

Matt B’s Main Street Pizza 1411 Main St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-1234

Mr. Gatti’s Pizza 804 Chestnut St. . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-6656

Mugsy’s Hideout 410 Main St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 767-0020

Nick’s Family Sports Pub 614 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 762-0012

Pagliai’s Pizza 970 Chestnut St. . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-2975

Papa John’s Pizza 656 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-6666

Pizza Hut 1113 Chestnut St. . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-4646

Pizza Pro 605-C S. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 767-1199

Renfro’s Hih Burger Inn 413 S. 4th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-1155

Rudy’s, “On the Square” 104 S. 5th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-1632

Ryan’s Steakhouse 801 Walmart Dr. . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-3809

Sirloin Stockade 922 S. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-0440

Snappy Tomato Pizza 1550 Lowes Dr. . . . . . . . . .(270) 761-7627

622 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-7827

Taco Bell 402 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-8758

Taco John’s 604 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-9697

77 W. Main St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(731) 247-3060 Puryear, TN

Lynn Grove Country Corner

217 S. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-9885

Subway T & J’s Diner

Hungry Bear 1310 Main St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-7641

Sonic Drive-In

Victor’s Sandwiches Backyard Burgers 801 Paramount Dr. . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-2480

1301 W. Main St. . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-7715

Vitello’s Deli 216 N. 15th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-3663

Boulders 317 Chestnut St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 761-9727

Burger King

Wendy’s Old Fashioned Hamburgers 1111 Chestnut St. . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-4695

814 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 759-8266

Burrito Shack 214 North 15th St. . . . . . . . . . .(270) 761-4444

Captain D’s 700 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-9383

ARE WE MISSING ANYTHING? If we’ve missed one of your favorite dining locations, please let us know by calling (270) 753-5225 or by emailing us at murraylife@aol.com. – Murray Life

Culver’s 818 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 761-2858

Dairy Queen 1303 Main St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-4925

Dinh’s Vietnamese Eggrolls 715 S. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 761-7655

Doughnut Hole, The 404 S. 12th Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-4900

Fidalgo Bay Coffee Shop 1201 Payne St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 761-4800

Hardee’s 505 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-3246

KFC 205 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-7101

McDonald’s 107 N. 12th St. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-5548

Murray Donuts 506 B North 12th St. . . . . . . . . . .(270) 761-1818

Quizno’s Subs 1203 Chestnut St. . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-8880

Sammon’s Bakery 974 Chestnut St. . . . . . . . . . . . . .(270) 753-5434

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The Money Pages

Don’t Let Inflation Erode Your Investments By: Ron Arant, a Financial Consultant for Hilliard & Lyons hat does inflation have to do with investing? Plenty. If the rate of return on your investments is less than the inflation rate, the purchasing power of your money will decline over time. Of course, the challenge is that no one knows what the inflation rate will be a year from now, much less 30 years down the road. However, you can develop investment strategies to help hedge against inflation.

It pays to pay attention to inflation when investing, especially when planning for long-term goals such as retirement.

Inflation — Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow For the most part, inflation in the U.S. economy has remained fairly consistent over time. For the 50-year period ending December 31, 2009, inflation increased every year but two and averaged around 4%. The highest annual rate during that period was 13.29% in 1979. For the 12 month period ending October 31, 2010, the inflation rate has fluctuated back down to 1.2%.1 The Federal Reserve (Fed) has been concerned about inflation in recent years — both during good economic times and not so good economic times. That’s why the Fed continually tweaks interest rates in an attempt to manage the economy — and inflation.

Let’s Get Personal While the Fed deals with the nation’s inflation issues, you have your own to consider. Even a relatively low rate of inflation can really add up over time. Assuming a very low inflation rate of 2%, a car that costs $21,000 today would cost $31,205 in 20 years!

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$ Obviously, it pays to pay attention to inflation when investing, especially when planning for long-term goals such as retirement. Look at your real rate of return, which is what your investments are worth after taxes and the cost of inflation is deducted. (Many experts recommend building in a 4% inflation rate per year when planning for long-term goals.) Although past performance can’t guarantee future results, historically stocks have outpaced inflation more than any other type of investment. A diversified, well-balanced portfolio can help to lessen risk. Or consider growth investments for tax-deferred

The Money Pages

IRAs. You can gradually shift to a more conservative portfolio as you near retirement. Inflation is a given. Rather than allow it to eat away at your portfolio, work with your investment professional to choose an appropriate investment mix – based upon your financial goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance – so that inflation doesn’t work against you. O Hilliard Lyons does not offer tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax advisor or attorney before making any decision that may affect your tax or legal situation. Securities offered through J.J.B. Hilliard W.L. Lyons, LLC. | Member NYSE, FINRA & SIPC. ©2007-2009 All rights reserved.

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Day Trips

Grandma’s Sunday Dinner By: Erin Carrico

olling hills and back-country roads in southern Illinois recently took me on tasty trip to Giant City State Park. Officially established in 1933 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, this state park varies from what we know in the western Kentucky region. Unlike our state parks, which focus around two large lakes, Giant City State Park has twelve ponds scattered throughout the park with trails, cabins, horse stables and hunting areas open to the public.

The Giant City Lodge, located in the park and best known for the food, is warm and welcoming to visitors. Giant wood columns made of solid white oak and a massive stone fireplace make it feel like a ski lodge. Oversized chairs and tables beg to be used for reading and card playing, and guests can check out board games and books for entertainment. The friendly staff is available for questions about the history of the lodge and park.

Upon entering the park, the beautiful Visitor’s Center cannot be missed. More than a place for brochures, the Visitor’s Center has exhibits on the wildlife and habitats found in the park. The family-friendly atmosphere has a hands-on section where children can touch and see what is found in the forest. Two of the most surprising animals found in the park are the bobcat and red fox. Small caves on the bluffs around the park allow for habitats of these animals.

During the 1930s, the lodge was quite the scandal. Advertising liquor, steaks and dancing with neonsigns was just too much for the town folks. Complaints to the superintendent of the park about selling beer and dancing forced him to cut the dances to Saturday night only. The “dance hall” has since become the dining hall for visitors.

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The large, open dining hall, built in 1934, feels like

Day Trips

Giant City Lodge Located in Makanda, Illinois (approximately ten minutes from Carbondale) Two hours from Murray by car Park Admission is Free 460 Giant City Lodge Road Makanda, Illinois 62958 618-457-4921 the sophisticated version of a mess hall at camp. When we visited, families were scattered throughout the room laughing and enjoying a home-cooked meal. Delicious choices were included on the menu. The fried green tomatoes caught my attention – and did not disappoint. Accompanied by a homemade basil sauce, the overall flavor created a sweet moment not normally tasted with fried green tomatoes. The “must order” food item is the specialty “Family Style Chicken Dinner.” My mouth waters just thinking about the meal again. Country-style fixin’s with juicy fried chicken immediately take me back to sitting at Grandma’s table for Sunday dinner. Pouring the creamy milk gravy over warm biscuits and mashed potatoes was worth the entire trip.

111-foot high cross famously located on Bald Knob Mountain at Alto Pass. We all need a change of scenery, new terrain to explore, and foods to try. A quick trip up north will find good ol’ home-cooking and beautiful views of nature. Those interested in a trip longer than a day can rent cabins and camping sites. O

Giant City Lodge provides a great place to be introduced to the Illinois wineries. Several local establishments list wines on the menu that can be chosen by the glass or bottle. My personal favorite, Pheasant Hollow Red & Blue, happened to be on the menu; it's a sweet, but tart, red wine bursting with flavor. Let’s not forget about dessert! As if the all-you-can-eat fried chicken was not enough, gear up for homemade cobblers and sundaes. While I was there, dessert of the day was warm blackberry cobbler topped, of course, with a mound of cold ice cream oozing over the warm dessert. After the long, leisurely meal, a walk is needed. Eight beautiful nature trails of all levels are easily accessible from the Lodge. An observation platform built in 1971 presents amazing views of the surrounding area. Climb 185 steps to the top and catch a glimpse of the w w w. m u r r a y l if e m a g a z ine . c o m

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Calendar of Events

he calendar of events is provided as a service to our readers. Events, times and contact information have been verified where possible. Murray Life does not endorse the ratings or reviews which are provided by the sponsoring organizations. To include your event, please contact Murray Life at murraylife@aol.com. All calendar requests much by received in writing and must be accompanied by a telephone contact number for verification purposes.

Boers & Bluegrass Call 270.809.3125 for more information

William Cherry AG Expo Center May 27-29

Downtown Saturday Market Downtown Murray comes to life early Saturday mornings when farmers, artisans, and craftsmen line the Court Square with their finest. Locals and visitors arrive early to get the best picks consisting of fresh produce, baked goods, crafts and art. The Saturday Market is hosted by Murray Main Street, to learn more, call 270.759.9474.

Downtown Square, Murray Every Saturday through October

District 7 4-H Horse Show Call 270.809.3125 for more information

William Cherry AG Expo Center June 3-5

Tuesdays with Morrie

Kentucky Junior Rodeo It's time for the finals rodeo! Tickets are $6.00 for one day or $10.00 for both days. Call 270.809.3125 for more information

William Cherry AG Expo Center May 20-22 50

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A contemporary autobiographical story of Mitch Albom, an accomplished journalist driven solely by his career, and Morrie Schwartz, his former college professor. Sixteen years after graduation, Mitch happens to catch Morrie's appearance on a television news program and learns that his old professor is battling Lou Gehrig's Disease. Mitch is reunited with Morrie, and what starts as a simple visit turns into a weekly pilgrimage and a last class in the meaning of life. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7 p.m. and Sunday shows are at 2:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at www.playhouseinthepark.net.

Playhouse in the Park June 10-16

Calendar of Events

EVERY DAY IN MURRAY

THE WEST KENTUCKY/WRATHER MUSEUM Preserving the visual and emotional traditions of the Jackson Purchase Area. Located at North 16th Street and University Drive on the campus of Murray State University, the museum is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Handicap access. For more info, call (270) 809-4771.

THE CHERI THEATER Murray’s seven-screen movie theater. For a list of current movies and times, please call (270) 753-3314 or visit www.moviesinmurray.com.

MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY’S FINE ARTS

FLW National Fishing Tournament Come out to the CFSB center each day to see the weighins and participate in many activities for the whole family. More information can be found at flwoutdoors.com.

CFSB Center June 16-19

Western Rivers Livestock Show

Presenting a variety of performances from dance to plays, from symphonies to choir concerts. For current information, call (270) 809-ARTS.

THE CLARA M. EAGLE GALLERY AT MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY Offering a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, from student artwork to national tours. Art ranges from drawing to sculpture, from photography to multimedia. For more information, please call (270) 809-6734.

Call 270.809.3125 for more information

William Cherry AG Expo Center June 23-24

PLAYHOUSE IN THE PARK Calloway County’s 30-year-old community theatre. Playhouse presents a variety of plays throughout the year. For detailed information, please call (270) 759-1752.

Tymeless Hearts Carnival Come play games, win prizes, enjoy entertainment, while perusing many interesting booths around the carnival, including receiving a free health check. The event is to raise money for Tymelss Hearts, Inc., a nonprofit organization devoted to helping families of children with heart defects. Their main goal is to increase awareness of congenital heart defects, while raising funds to further research of the disease. Assistance is also given to families to help with medical and travel expenses. Proceeds collected at the carnival will increase the funds to help all those affected by this disease. Call (270) 293-9536 for more information.

THE MURRAY ART GUILD A nonprofit organization that offers workshops and exhibitions for children and adults. Stop by and see some of the area artists at work. The Guild is located in downtown Murray at 500 N. 4th St. For additional information, please call (270) 753-4059.

GLORY BOUND CHRISTIAN MUSIC 7-9 p.m. every Thursday at the Weaks Center. For more information, call Joe Lawrence at (270) 753-5643.

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Calendar of Events

The Carson Four Rivers Center Events

Freedom Fest Independence Day weekend in downtown Murray is bustling with activity. Freedom Fest holds many free events for the entire family such as a downtown concert, Saturday morning parade, Family Day in the Park and a Gospel concert. Downtown on Friday and Saturday, there will be a variety of vendors set up selling food, jewelry, books and more. More information can be found at www.tourmurray.com or by calling 270.759.2199.

July 1-3

2011-2012 Broadway Series Subscriptions Deadline to renew your 2011-2012 Broadway Subscription is Friday, June 3rd at 5:00pm. New subscription orders can be submitted now and are filled on a first come first serve basis after renewed subscriptions are processed. The Carson Center and Jam Theatricals are pleased to announce the Broadway in Paducah 2011-12 Season at the Carson Center, highlighted by the world’s greatest musical MY FAIR LADY and the smash hit MAMMA MIA! Subscriptions to this stunning season are on sale now.

Fri, 06/03/2011 - 5:00pm

Hazel Dealer’s Choice Sale Dealers and shops in Hazel, a renowned antique shopping district, will have special discounts and merchandise on sale. Call 270.492.8175 for more information.

Hazel, Ky Week of July 4

Josh Turner

Walk Around Kentucky For Epilepsy The Epilepsy Foundation of Kentuckiana will host this fun 5K walk at the Calloway County High School. Registration begins at 9 am. Visit www.efky.org for registration and event information.

Calloway County High School, Murray July 9 52

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Named by People magazine as one of Country’s Hottest Stars, Grammy® nominated Josh Turner has celebrated back-to-back multi-week #1 radio singles and back-to-back platinum and gold albums. Turner, one of the youngest members of the distinguished Grand Ole Opry, is also the youngest member to be inducted into Nashville’s Walk of Fame. With his passion to support music and the arts, he launched The Josh Turner Fund that awarded its second scholarship recipient in 2010.

Fri, 06/17/2011 - 7:30pm Visit our Website: www.thecarsoncenter.org Paducah’s world-class entertainment venue. Please call (270)450-4444 for tickets or more information on any of these events. For group sales, call (270)443-9932, ext. 2242. Box office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Saturday and Sunday. Note: Open two hours prior to each performance.

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| Murray Life Magazine

Advertiser’s Directory Advertiser

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Advertiser

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Advertiser

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Animal Health & Wellness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

K-Squared Designs, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 & 55

Oakwood Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

BB&T Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Kentucky Farm Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Playhouse in the Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Briggs & Stratton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Kopperud Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Primary Care Medical Center (Urgent Care) . . . .21

Der Dutch Merchant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

MidSouth Vinyl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33, 44

Primary Care OBGYN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Fifth and Main Coffee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9,54

Miller Memoorial Golf Course . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Randy Thornton Heating & Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Froggyland Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Murray Animal Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Roof Brothers Wine & Spirits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Glendale Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Murray Auto Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

SBG Real Property Professionals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Gold Rush . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Murray Bank, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

Seasons, Robert Valentine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Grey's Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Murray-Calloway Co. Chamber of Commerce . . .44

Strawberry Hills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Hell’s Fury . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Murray-Calloway Co. Hospital . . . . . . . . .Back Cover

Toyota of Murray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Outside Back

Heritage Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Murray Electric System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Urology Associates, H.S. Jackson, MD . . . . . . . . . .53

Hilliard-Lyons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Murray Insurance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

Wall Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33, 39, 42

Humane Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

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WENK/WTPR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Houston Security Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Murray Woman's Clinic . . . . . . . . . .14 & Inside Front

Western Baptist Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

Image Graphics Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

NewWave Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

WKMS FM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Imes-Miller Funeral Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Northwood Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

WNBS-1340 AM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

Coming in our Next issue: Look for features on … • 100 Years Ago in Calloway County • Scrapbooks and Scanners: Saving Those Old Photos • Those Magnificent Melons … And that's just the start! As always, you can count on Murray Life for humor, shopping tips, nature stories, profiles, financial advice, Sudoku and lots more.

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| Murray Life Magazine

Opinion

The Lost Word By: Bob Valentine

Let us admit to a certain prejudice:

we like words.

When you write magazines, edit books, and prepare the copy of advertising, words become the tools of your trade. You would no more abuse a word than a good carpenter would leave a well-made handsaw in the rain. If you let words lose their proper meanings, you lose the power to communicate. "The difference between the right word and the nearly right word is the difference between lightning and lightning bug." – Mark Twain So, whenever a worker in words sees one of these useful tools slipping away, it's a sad moment. Some years ago, the children left "awesome" out in the snow all winter, and it warped. Now, the word that used to represent the grandeur of a Pacific sunset, or the birth of a baby, has come to express our feelings over hearing that we're going to have spaghetti for supper. While I yield to no one in my affection for spaghetti, I think I can recognize the difference between the inspiring spectacle of the evening sun on the blue water and the satisfying slide of a lump of starch into an already-full belly. Only one of those experiences can actually inspire awe: a paralysis of mind and emotion brought on by the sudden realization that the world is a place of experiences beyond our power to comprehend. "Awesome" has been joined by "unique," which now means everything from "slightly unusual" to "somewhat different." Its true meaning – "one of a kind" – has fallen so far from its everyday use that one advertiser referred to a store that was "uniquely one of a kind." That's a bit like saying that ice is frozen, but it probably communicated something to someone. Sadly, there are many other examples. The latest nominee for the Mausoleum of Lost Words is, without doubt, "literally." As Ledger & Times writer Kyser Lough put it in a recent column: "When you say you 'literally' did something, it means just that: you pretty much did it." It could not be simpler. Yet, we now find the word being used to express extremes or hyperbole. One blogger wrote that his friend "literally beat the snot out of me at chess." We're sure this is a metaphor of some kind, unless the agony of losing one's queen causes an uncontrolled discharge from the nose. A young television reporter, standing in front of a mobile home which had just been broken in two by a falling tree, confidently pointed out to the folks back at the anchor desk that "this tree is literally bigger than I am." We have no idea what she was trying to communicate, unless it was to reassure us that she was standing closer to the camera than was the tree. "I literally died when I saw her," seems to be a message from the grave, but was actually uttered by a young woman who was unpleasantly surprised by someone's appearance somewhere. Unless you believe in communication with the spirits of the departed, this is firm evidence that the word "literally" is quite broken. Literally. Perhaps, if we all try to be more careful with these precious tools, we will have fewer "failures to communicate." It should be a O pleasant summer – maybe I'll re-read the dictionary. I forget how it ends, anyway.

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