Alabama Living November 2010 by American MainStreet Publications

The Electric Cooperatives of Alabama

Alabama Living NOVEMBER 2010

A Stateâ&#x20AC;Ś

Divided Why the big game was sidelined for 41 years

Contents

Electric Cooperatives of Alabama

Alabama Living NOVEMBER 2010 Vol. 63 No. 11

Co-op News. . . . . . . . . 4 Local information you can use

Around Alabama. . . . . . 9 Salute to Veterans Car Show

Destinations. . . . . . . . . 18 Red Door Theatre

Alabama Gardens. . . . . . 20 Holiday gifts for gardeners

Alabama Outdoors. . . . . 22 Deer hunting tips

Fish & Game Forecast. . . 23

Grid Lines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Safe @ Home. . . . . . . 24 Electric blanket safety

Utilities prepare to repave America’s electric highway

Cook of the Month. . . . . 26 Sweet Potato Dumplings

A State Divided. . . . . . . . . . . . 12

The nation’s greatest in-state football game was sidelined for 41 years. Find out why.

Recipes . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Harbor Days. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Alabama Snapshots. . . . . 38

Holiday Traditions

Foley welcomes its sister cities back home Nov. 5-7

Enjoying Football

Next month

On the cover Top: The University of Alabama’s first football team, circa 1892. Bottom: Auburn University’s second football team, circa 1893.

Find out how a visit to the gift shop at the Alabama State House can make your holiday shopping easier.

A l a b a m a R u ra l E l e c t r i c A s s o c i a t i o n Fred Braswell, AREA President • Darryl Gates, Editor • Mark Stephenson, Creative Director • Michael Cornelison, Art Director Jay Clayton, Director, Marketing & Advertising • Mary Tyler Spivey, Recipe Editor • Ronnie Fitzgerald, Production Assistant Alabama Living is delivered to some 397,000 Alabama families and businesses, which are members of 22 not-for-profit, consumer-owned, locally directed and taxpaying electric cooperatives. AREA cooperative member subscriptions are $3 a year; non-member subscriptions, $6. Alabama Living (USPS 029-920) is published monthly by the Alabama Rural Electric Association of Cooperatives. Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Alabama, and at additional mailing office. POSTMASTER send forms 3579 to: Alabama Living, P.O. Box 244014 Montgomery, Alabama 36124-4014. ADVERTISING & EDITORIAL OFFICES:

340 TechnaCenter Drive Montgomery, Alabama 36117-6031 1-800-410-2737 E-mail: jclayton@areapower.com www.areapower.coop

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Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

Learn about Medications to Ensure Safety By Magen Howard

Medications exist to make us feel better. But when taken incorrectly, they carry serious consequences. Incorrectly using medications increases the chance of severe medical complications or even death. There’s a price tag with it, too—more than $177 billion annually in added prescriptions, hospital admissions, doctor calls, emergency room visits, and nursing home admissions, according to the American Pharmacists Association. Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs pose as much risk as prescription medications. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, too much acetaminophen – the active ingredient in Tylenol—can cause liver damage; overuse of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, can lead to stomach bleeding and kidney disease, Of course, the ability for drugs to negatively interact with each other increases with the amount of medications taken. The following tips, compiled by the American Pharmacists Association and the Consumer Health Product Association’s education arm, OTCSafety.org, can help you better manage your medications. Be informed. Talk to your pharmacist and doctor. Ask when and how to take your medication; what to do if you miss a dose; potential side effects; and how your medications might interact with other drugs

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

you’re taking. Know the facts. Read the label and look at the medicine as soon as you pick up your prescription. Question any unexplained changes in the medication size, color, markings, amounts, or doses. Read the label. On OTC medications, always read and follow the Drug Facts label. The active ingredients section of the label is especially important if you’re taking more than one medicine—to make sure you’re not taking too much of the same active ingredient. Never take more than one medicine with the same active ingredient unless told to do so by a doctor. Share information. Create a list of all the medications you’re taking—including vitamins and natural supplements—and share it with all of your health-care professionals. This helps to prevent drug interactions. Treat your symptoms. When taking OTC medications, choose those that treat only the symptoms you have, so you take only the active ingredients you need. Sources: American Pharmacists Association, Institute for Safe Medicine Practices, Consumer Health Product Association Educational Foundation, U.S. Food & Drug Administration.

Tax credits to expire in December If you need new windows, roofing, insulation or an air conditioner, consider replacing your old ones by Dec. 31. That’s when the federal tax credit for energyefficient home improvements expires. For qualifying products that you have installed by the end of the year, you can take a tax credit of up to $1,500 on your 2010 taxes. You can claim the credit on 30 percent of the cost of the following products: Windows, doors and skylights Metal or asphalt roofs (other kinds don’t qualify) Insulation Electric heat-pump water heaters; gas, oil or propane water heaters • Air conditioning and heating systems • Biomass stoves • • • •

the following products — with no limit at all — until the end of 2016: • • • • •

Geothermal heat pumps Solar panels Solar water heaters Small wind energy systems Fuel cells

The catch: The requirements for each product are super-specific. Not every product is eligible for the tax credit; not even every energy-efficient or Energy Star product is eligible. So don’t assume that you’ll qualify for the tax credit just because you’re buying an energy-efficient device in one of these categories. Double-check before you buy by visiting the federal government’s Energy Star page at www.energystar.gov

You can claim the credit on 30 percent of the cost of

Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

What does ‘green’ really mean?

Most people believe a “green” home is energy efficient — and it is. But that’s just one part of a three-prong “green” strategy that also involves water conservation and indoor air quality. Still, energy efficiency is a good place to start if you want to make your home more environmentally friendly, healthier and cheaper to operate. Here are some tips for addressing your home’s energy and water use and its air quality. 1. Energy efficiency. Hire an energy specialist to “audit” your home for leaks — in air conditioning ducts, windows, walls and the attic. The tech might advise you to have your ducts sealed and to caulk the windows, repair attic insulation and make other improvements. Seal your home’s “leaks” before you invest in expensive new products like super-efficient windows, solar panels or a new air conditioning system. Even the most efficient 6

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

products won’t make you more comfortable or cut your energy bills if you install them in a house that’s leaking heated (or cool) air. 2. Water conservation. Invest in plumbing fixtures that make water savings automatic. If your toilets are the ancient models that swallow five gallons of water with every flush, buy low-water versions that use 1.6 gallons or less. The Environmental Protection Agency has a new WaterSense designation for faucets, showerheads and even lawn-watering fixtures that use less and waste less. 3. Air quality. Properly ventilating bathrooms and kitchens can help your whole family breathe easier. And choosing less-toxic versions of paints, carpets and other materials can go a long way to improving your home’s indoor air quality.

Install carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms Before your home fills with visiting family members and the smells of holiday cooking, install carbon monoxide detectors near every bedroom. If you heat your home with a gas furnace, burn wood or gas in the fireplace, or use other gas appliances at home, you need these life-saving detectors. You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide, which is a potential byproduct of burning fossil fuels. Your home should have at least one carbon monoxide detector to alert you of the presence of gas. Follow these safety guidelines: • If you install only one carbon monoxide detector, put it on the same floor as the bedrooms so it can alert your family to wake up in case levels of the gas reach an unhealthy level. Better: Place a detector on every floor of the house. • Keep your detectors at least 15 feet away from a gas stove or oven, which may emit a small amount of carbon monoxide on startup.

like the bathroom. • Replace the batteries in your alarms twice a year. • Properly maintain your gas appliances, including the furnace and stove. Same goes for devices that use gasoline. • Know the warning signs of too much carbon monoxide in the house: stuffy, stale air; condensation on windows; yellow burner flames on the stove; and fluttering or extinguishing pilot lights. • If you see those signs or if your alarm sounds, turn off suspect appliances, open doors and windows, get out of the house, and then call your gas utility to inspect the equipment. • If your garage is connected to your house, avoid idling your car. Car exhaust is a source of carbon monoxide.

• Detectors don’t operate properly in humid areas

Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

Cracks in house

could mean trouble

Those little cracks in your home’s walls, doors and floors might not be as harmless as they look. Not every crack is a problem beyond an eyesore. In fact, as a home ages, it’s a given that cracks will form in overused areas, like around doors and windows. Temperature fluctuations can cause building materials to expand and contract — and crack. But a crack could be the only visible symptom of a hidden and potentially serious problem with your home — one that will be harder to fix and more expensive to deal with later if you don’t figure out what’s causing that crack now. A tip: Arm yourself with a magnifying glass and a pencil and inspect your home, inside and out, for cracks. Use the magnifying glass to find the tiniest cracks in indoor and outdoor walls. If a crack is just big enough to let the point of the pencil through, you probably don’t have to worry about it. But if the eraser end fits into the crack, it’s time to do some serious repair work. Here are four places to stop a crack before it starts trouble:

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1. Your wood front door. Unless you clean, sand and refinish your door regularly, it’s bound to dry out and warp or crack. Apply a protective urethanebased finish every couple of years. Another option: Replace the wood door with a wood lookalike fiberglass door. 2. Any hole, gap, crack or opening on the outside of your house. Culprits: cracks around exterior light fixtures, outdoor taps; exhaust vents and fans; electrical outlets. Hot outdoor air can find its way inside your house through those openings, and your expensive air-conditioned air can leak out through the same gaps. Seal the gaps with caulk. 3. Tile floors. Chances are, a cracked tile floor is covering up a cracked concrete floor underneath. To solve the problem, remove all of the cracked tiles and repair the cracked concrete underneath before replacing the tiles. 4. Bricks and mortar. Simple cracks that follow the pattern of the block underneath are normal, but cracks that cut straight through the blocks can signal a serious issue. Same goes for deep crevices in your stucco, or for substantial, diagonal cracks in interior or exterior walls at the corners of doors and windows. Large cracks like these can reveal that your home’s foundation is “settling” or “heaving” because the soil underneath has gotten wet. Consult with a foundation expert to learn how bad the problem is.

Around Alabama Montgomery

Salute to Veterans Open Car, Truck and Bike Show The Tri County Mustang Club invites you to the Salute to Veterans Car, Truck & Bike show. Proceeds will go to local charities and the Blue Star Salute Foundation of Alabama. Events begin at 8 a.m. and go until 2 p.m. at Stivers Ford 4000 Eastern Blvd. We will be honoring Veterans and the 214 fallen hero’s from Alabama that have paid the ultimate sacrifice since 9/11/2001 in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Moulton – November 5 & 6 Farm and Toy Show Lawrence County Coliseum Fri. 6 -9 p.m. and Sat. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission: Charged Contact: Dwight Vanderford at 256974-6960 Wetumpka – November 6 3rd Annual Chris Davis Memorial Car/Truck/Bike/Tractor Show Wetumpka High School Registration 8-11 a.m. Admission: registration fee. Proceeds benefit Faith Baptist Church Contact: Jack Davis at 334-202-3027

Andalusia – November 11-14 Absolutely Andalusia Homecoming Contact: www.cityofandalusia.com Moulton – November 12 Gospel Singing High School Auditorium, 7 p.m. Admission: Charged, discounted advanced tickets, under 12 free Contact: Leon Patterson at 256-974-8277 Monroeville - November 12 & 13 Fruitcake Festival Old Courthouse Museum Contact: the Museum at 251-5757433 or www.tokillamockingbird.com

Lookout Mountain – November 6 Canyon Fest: A Celebration of Arts and Nature Little River Canyon Center, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Admission: Free, donations welcome Contact: 256-782-5697

Wetumpka – November 12 & 13 Charis Crafters 12th Annual Craft Show Wetumpka Civic Center Admission: Charged Contact: Patricia McCullers at msparcy@hotmail.com

Beatrice – November 6 Rikard’s Mill (1845 Grist Mill) Rikard’s Mill Historical Park Admission: Charged Contact: the Museum at 251-575-7433 www.tokillamockingbird.com

Greenville – November 13 Fort Dale Youth Hunt Friday check-in at Ft. Dale Academy from 6 - 8 p.m. All day hunt for ages 6-15 Admission: Registration charged (includes a parent/guardian) Contact: Chris Dunkin at 334-3821919 - cmdunkin71@yahoo.com

Lineville – November 6 9th Annual Heritage Day Sponsored by Lineville Merchants Association Downtown Lineville, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free Contact: 256-396-6143 Andalusia - November 11-13 Sweetgum Stitchers present “Visions of Thread and Fabric” Quilt Show Sponsored by Covington County Quilters Guild Johnson Park Gym Thur. Noon - 5 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission: Free Contact: Sharon at 334-427-8458 or ccquiltguild@gmail.com

Ft. Payne – November 13 & 14 Wills Creek Pow Wow VFW Agri. Fairgrounds Building Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Public invited. A rain or shine event. Belk – November 13 Fiddlefest and Fish Fry Belk Community Center, 7941 Highway 96 2 p.m. Charlie Stripling Tribute Program 6 p.m. Fish Fry Admission: Free, charge for fish fry Contact: Joyce Cauthen 205-822-0505 or www.alabamafolklife.org

To place an event, fax information to 334-215-8623; mail to Events Calendar, P.O. Box 244014, Montgomery, AL 36124; e-mail to calendar@areapower.coop. (Subject Line: Around Alabama) or visit www.alabamaliving.coop

November 13

The Blue Star Salute organization will be on hand to honor those lost along with representatives from all branches of service. Many Military type vehicles will be on hand to view and recruiters will be available to talk with about military options. We will have custom Cars, Trucks & Motorcycles to view and plenty of opportunities for pictures.

Elba – November 13 “A Small Town Celebration” Historic Square in downtown Elba 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Contact: Elba Chamber of Commerce at 334-897-3125 or www.elbaalabama.net Lookout Mountain – November 13 Collinsville Historic Turkey Trot Sponsored in part by the Collinsville Historic Association 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Antique car and tractor show, turkey shoot, cake walk and historic “turkey toss” from the roof of a building. Contact: 256-524-2788 Bullock County – November 18 Bullock County Wild Hog Field Day Sponsored by the Bullock Co. Forest Planning Committee Frank Moorer farm, 8:30 a.m. registration RSVP by Nov. 12. Contact: Extension office at 334738-2580 Cullman – November 19 & 20 Vinemont Band Boosters Arts and Crafts Fair Cullman Civic Center Fri. 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Contact: Brandi Brown at 256-7364579 or VBBCraftshow@golfsupply.com Dothan – November 19 & 20 Faithful Fingers Bizarre Bazaar Family Life Center, Covenant UMC Early shoppers provided a chili supper for Friday’s preview sale from 5-7 p.m. Admission: charged on Fri., free on Sat. Contact: Carole Lee at 792-6240 or lauren@covenantdothan.org Pell City – November 19-21 Sanders Family Christmas Pell City Center Admission: charged Contact: Box Office at 205-3381974 or www.pellcitycenter.com

Loxley – November 19 City Rhythm Big Band Loxley Civic Center Season opening dance and concert. Contact: Joey at Loxley Civic Center 251-964-7733 Dothan – November 20 American Indian History Month Festival Dothan Civic Center Doors open at 4 p.m. Admission: charged, dancers and children under 5 are free Contact: Box Office at 334-6153175 or www.aifestival.net Five Points – November 20 2nd Annual Fredonia Heritage Day Old Historic Schoolhouse at the crossroads of Chambers County roads 267 and 222 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free Contact: www.savefredonia.com Point Clear – November 20 Fall Festival St. Francis Traditional Episcopal Church 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Pine Apple – November 27 15th Annual Hunter Appreciation Festival and Great Alabama Homecoming Downtown Pine Apple - 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free, registration fee for Big Buck Contest Contact: www.pineapplealabama.com Arab – November 27 Christmas in the Park 5K & Fun Run Registration at 8 a.m., race begins at 9 a.m. Contact: Milia Jones at 256-5866074 – mjones@arabcityschools.org ajhs.arabcityschools.org

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Each submission must include a contact name and phone number. Deadline is two months prior to issue date. We regret that we cannot publish every event due to space limitations. Follow Alabama Living on facebook

Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

By Megan McKoy-Noe

Imagine a major highway with vehicles all going one way. It’s rush hour – rows of impatient cars try to merge, pushing to reach a final destination. Exits for cities appear, and a steady stream of cars spreads into the countryside. Electricity today travels across the nation in much the same way – moving from power plants along major transmission arteries until off-ramps deliver it to a local electric cooperative and, finally, your home.

here’s a national push to improve this setup – repave the electric highway, so to speak – to allow for twoway traffic of information. This would be accomplished by two steps: upgrading the physical network of poles and wires to bolster reliability and security, and deploying digital “smart grid” technologies that allow utility staff and equipment on power lines and substations to talk to each other. The ultimate goal: allow electric systems to operate at top efficiency and help consumers make better energy choices to keep bills affordable. “Modernizing America’s electric system is a substantial undertaking,” stated the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in its report, Grid 2030. “The nation’s aging electro-mechanical electric grid cannot keep pace with innovations in the digital information and telecommunications network. America needs an electric superhighway to support our information superhighway.”

North America’s electric grid may be the largest interconnected machine on earth, consisting of power plants, high-voltage transmission lines, smaller transmission lines, substations, and distribution facilities. But it wasn’t built with a master plan in mind. It was created as needed, one section as a time. As the nation’s electric needs grew, so did the grid. Today, the electric grid is split into three parts: the Western Interconnection, which reaches from the Pacific to the Rockies; the Eastern Interconnection, which continues to the Atlantic; and the Texas Interconnection, which covers most of the Lone Star State. Plans are under way in Clovis, N.M., to connect all three segments, but today they remain fairly isolated. The grid includes approximately 3,000 utilities and other entities operating 10,000 power plants, according to DOE. More than 1million megawatts of energy courses over 300,000 miles of transmission lines nationally. Most of this vast network was designed at least 50 years ago – thus the need for a major upgrade.

Earth’s Largest Interconnected Machine

Grid of the Future

A challenge lies before utilities: how to transform a largely mechanical power network into a digital smart grid.

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What will tomorrow’s grid look like? Paving a new, smarter grid calls for unprecedented cooperation and communication, since everyone has

a different idea of what our future power network should be. Electric cooperatives believe there should be three main goals behind grid improvements: affordability, efficiency and reliability. To keep electric bills affordable, a smarter grid will provide tools to help members manage their electric use, while automation devices and tools help reduce operational costs. And since electric cooperatives are not-for-profit, any money saved on day-to-day operations will ultimately be returned to members. Technology focused on boosting efficiency could shrink a communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s carbon footprint by letting members reduce their electric use during demand peaks and lowering line losses. Finally, a smarter grid should be more secure and can help electric co-ops restore service following an outage much faster and safer than before. While itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll still take the same amount of time to remove a tree thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fallen

onto distribution lines, a utility would be able to pinpoint the location remotely rather than having to walk a line to find the problem. As with all construction projects, these improvements will require study to make sure consumer benefits outweigh costs. Electric cooperatives, as consumer-owned and -governed utilities, take a sensible approach to technology investments. This means the co-op business model, combined with DOE research funds, make cooperatives an excellent test for

Source: NRECA

exploring the value of smart grid for members, and how these new technologies might be able to help keep bills affordable. To learn more visit www.smartgrid.gov. For updates on how electric co-ops are leading the way with smart grid innovations, visit www. ECT.coop.d

Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

The nation’s greatest in-state college football game was sidelined for 41 years. What caused the rift between the schools from Auburn and Tuscaloosa?

fter the War Between the States and post-Reconstruction years, the nation looked expectantly toward the dignity and propriety of a new century with its “Gilded Age.” In the Heart of Dixie, however, an in-state college football rivalry had begun burning so hot that everyone – from coaches and players to college presidents and the state Legislature – had to wait four decades for it to cool. Well, that’s what some say… A dapper-dressed crowd arrived by horse and buggy at Birmingham’s Lakeview Park for that very first contest between two Alabama colleges on Feb. 22, 1893. It was the result of hard work by scholars at each school to launch football programs. Despite having relatively small attendance and intensity, that game was won by a team from Auburn against a team from Tuscaloosa by a score of 32-22. It steadily grew to become a clash of talent and pride until a tough game in 1907 ended in a tie. Long after the end zone mud had settled that year, school officials weren’t grappling with controversies on the field. Instead, they were squaring off over players’ expense money and the choice of game officials. Ultimately, both schools walked away in a decision that sidelined the game for 41 years. So, the Tigers from Auburn and the Crimson Tide from Tuscaloosa Photo credits: w W.S. Hoole Special Collections Library, The Unversity of Alabama. w Birmingham, Ala. Public Library Archives, Cat.# 1556.4.88, 1556.31.32, 1556.31.33, 1556.31.34, 1556.32.78, 1556.32.80. w Auburn University Library

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

A State

Bear Bryant

put off playing each other until after two world wars and the Great Depression – the types of earth-shattering events, some surmise, that had to happen before Alabamians would tackle their own pressing pigskin problem. These days, each year’s Iron Bowl pits players from both schools who hate losing to former high school teammates. Families put aside their avowed affections as game day “mixed-marriages” divide hearts, living rooms, church pews, bar rooms and river sand bars, as the nation’s greatest in-state college football game is played. But through those silent no-play years, whether a display of our history-proven strength of character, or stubborn Scot-Irish heritage, neither school gave up one inch of political turf in negotiations. Providence managed to shine through the gloom, however. Administrations at Alabama and Auburn (then called Alabama Polytechnic Institute, or API) finally chose to allow the history-making kickoff whistle to blow again in 1948 as the Iron Bowl returned to its roots of rivalry. In 1989 the game was moved from its “neutral” location at Legion Field in Birmingham to a yearly rotation of JordanHare Stadium in Auburn and BryantDenny Stadium in Tuscaloosa. A look back at those years of dogged determination not to play the game is revealing.

By John Brightman Brock

‘It was stupid’ David Housel, long-time athletics director and Sports Information director at Auburn University, says the history of the impasse was telling. “By today’s standards, it was stupid.” In 1908, the University of Alabama received a game contract proposal from Alabama Polytechnic Institute calling for a two-night player expense pay for 22 men per team at $3.50 a day, for a total of $154. Alabama countered with a proposal for 20 players at $3 per day, a difference of two men and $34, according to David Rosenblatt, recently retired director of the Jonathon Bell Lovelace Museum at Auburn University. “And Auburn would not agree to any change.” The Tigers’ athletic commissioners also wanted game officials to be chosen from outside of the state, while Alabama wanted the opposite. But while most folks thought the controversy was being settled amicably, they were proved wrong. “On Oct. 30, 1908, the series went into limbo and not to be reopened until 1948,” Rosenblatt says. While the two schools nearly compromised in 1908, they could not agree on an actual date of play. The process stopped cold. Efforts again in 1911 and 1923 also were unsuccessful. The history of this disagreement unearths the collegiate char-

‘They had ladders trying to get over the wall at Legion Field. One guy got him a ladder and jumped off to get in, and broke his leg.’

Divided

crowd,” because of people sneaking in wherever they could. Contrary to the last wet and muddy meeting in 1907, it was a nice winter’s day, Howard says, as he referred occasionally to Housel’s wellknown book, “The Auburn University Football Vault.” According to HowShug Jordan ard: “The kids were anxious to play. The stadium was filled up an hour acter of the times, as both school trainer with the API team in 1948, before the ball game, and there was faculties agreed the game’s fervor and later assistant Auburn Univerlots of yelling there. Alabama jumped was disrupting students’ focus sity athletics director until 1980. out ahead and got ahead of us, and on their higher education. After “It was a highly sought after ticket,” beat the hell out of us early, 55 to 0.” all, football seasons then were Howard remembers. “Mostly, it was Clem Gryska, former assistant short, and this game was not meant just to say ‘I was there when.’ But coach at Alabama and recent retiree to be a “big thing.” At one point, the it was not a big deal for the rivalry Auburn athletic commission decided because there was not a rivalry then,” from the Paul W. Bryant Museum staff, recalled the fervor of that 1948 it should not be resumed, but Alahe adds. game, and the night before. In the bama attempted to bring it back game, he was a blocking back in – only to be stymied by Auburn the Crimson Tide backfield. again, according to Rosenblatt. “We stayed at the big hotel in The issue was passed to the town that night. We woke up for Alabama Capitol, and the Legthe pre-game and I looked out of islature approved a unanimous the window. There were people non-binding resolution on Aug. everywhere. There was a big 15, 1947, calling for the schools parade. They had flags and were to play. The joint resolution, (HJR honking horns. It was a beautiful 77 - Stone) passed the Alabama sunny day, the weather was mild House, and then gained Senate apand a pretty good crowd,” recalls proval with the added stipulation Gryska, who recently turned 83. that the schools play no later than May 1949. (See resolution.) The first game between Auburn and Alabama He notes that Alabama had a wellknown program and was awfully After that, University of Alabama good. “We really didn’t like them or President John M. Gallalee and AlaBoth sides were stirred up want to play them,” he quips about bama Polytechnic Institute PresiBut people were definitely stirred the Tigers. dent Ralph Brown Draughon were up – on both sides. Tickets sold out “But the next year, Alabama fans meeting in April 1948 at the Tutwiler to Legion Field’s stadium seating, he chanted ‘56... ’56’ meaning they Hotel in Birmingham when Gallasays. “They had ladders trying to get wanted to win 56-0. But Auburn lee asked,” Why don’t we just play?” over the wall at Legion Field. One beat the hell out of them 14-13,” And Draughon replied, “Let’s do it,” guy got him a ladder and jumped Rosenblatt says. off to get in, and broke his leg.” And Howard says. Alabama Polytechnic Institute players showered, got The Crimson Tide won that return many guys at the main gate “had dressed and came back out, as none football match 55-0 in Birmingham buddies to get in,” Howard says, esof the API fans had left the field. on Dec. 4, 1948. But the folks putting timating the crowd at about 40,000But Legion Field would never be the on the event doubled the price of a plus. “It was more than an overflow same again, Howard says. Many of ticket and made it a souvenir item, says Kenny Howard, assistant

the feather-filled stadium seat cushions were split open Post-war lifestyle changes spiked attendance and team and tossed in the air. “They went out of business that loyalty for both sides. Residents of the state had more day... the stands and field were covered with feathers (in time for leisure and a rivalry geared more and more for celebration).” the fans. Howard surprisingly also was connected, by relation, “Realize that World War II came along and there were to the series’ precursor game in 1907, where the aunt a lot of folks that went into the military, and they came of his late wife, Jeanne, had a buggy seat in inclement back,” Land says. “There was more interest in people weather. “It was a nasty, terrible day. Aunt Mim Barnhart going to college with the GI bill. There was more leisure sat in a buggy with her boyfriend and watched them time, to get away from the tough times of the war rationplay. She didn’t remember any controversy that come up ing. So, you get these boom years after the war, and it at the ball game,” Howard says. changes things – America’s percepResolution HJR 77 That game, known for its tion. That goes for the South, too.” Aug. 15, 1947 muddy field, was pivotal in the So the game became an annual naming of the Crimson Tide, acmainstay of Alabamians’ leisure Whereas, for many years there has been a lapse cording to the Alabama Crimson plans, and became an outlet for in athletic relations between the University of Tide, University of Alabama official their tensions. That translated, and Alabama and Alabama Polytechnic Institute; and Whereas, in the opinion of the majority of the athletic website. It lists the “Crimstill translates, into the Iron Bowl, members of the Alabama Legislature it is to the son White” as the first team name Land says. best interest of the two schools and of the people used, and the first nickname of Historians like Dr. Ed Bridges, ofAlabama that such athletic relations be resumed. “Thin Red Line” used until 1906. director of the Alabama DepartNow Therefore, be it resolved by the House According to the website: “The ment of Archives and History, of Representatives, the Senate concurring, that name ‘Crimson Tide’ is supposed to focus on the significance of two the respective Boards of Trustees of the Unihave been used by Hugh Roberts, men who developed these football versity of Alabama and Alabama Polytechnic Institute are hereby respectfully requested to former sports editor of the Birmingprograms. make possible the inauguration of a full athham Age-Herald. He used ‘Crimson “The football program at Auburn letic program between the two schools, and was started by the great historian Tide’ in describing an AlabamaBe It Further Resolved that such action be taken Auburn game played in Birmingham George Petrie,” Bridges says. “And by the said Boards of Trustees at the earliest in 1907... The game was played in a Eugene Allen Smith, for whom practicable date. And not later than May 1949.d sea of mud and Auburn was a heavy Smith Hall is named, is also one favorite to win. But, evidently, the of the great figures of Alabama Source: Alabama State House, Legislative Reference ‘Thin Red Line’ played a great game history.” in the red mud and held Auburn to a 6-6 tie, thus gaining Petrie, the first Alabamian to earn a Ph.D, was an the name ‘Crimson Tide.’ Zipp Newman, former sports American scholar and educator who is considered the editor of the Birmingham News, probably popularized the founder of Auburn’s history department and graduate name more than any other writer.” school, as well as the school’s athletic program. Smith was state geologist from 1873 to 1913 and president of Game site rotates now the American Geological Society in 1913. He is rememFrom 1948 to 1988, the games were played at Legion bered for helping to develop the state’s mineral wealth. Field in Birmingham. After that, the game site rotated “Smith was a heroic figure in Alabama,” Bridges says. between each school’s campus, with Auburn hosting “It’s hard to overstate how important he was to the state. the first game on Dec. 2, 1989. API changed its name to He was one of the great men of Alabama. Smith Hall, Auburn University in 1960. where the Alabama Museum of Natural History is, is Those 41 no-play years for the Orange and Blue and named for him,” Bridges says. the Crimson and White brought both schools back on “And Petrie was a giant of a man. They said he was a collision course with school rivalry, and on track with one of the greatest teachers they had heard speak. national trends, says Tom Land, institution records anaPeople from town would come to hear him. For those lyst/archivist with University of Alabama Archives. He re- two remarkable men, who were such scholastic leadfers to “Braggin’ Rights,” an acclaimed book about those ers, to have been instrumental in establishing a football years by Bill Cromartie. During that time, Alabama won program is noteworthy.” several national titles and was known as a powerhouse. These roots of rivalry will soon rekindle and resound “During the years they had not played, Alabama with cries of “Roll, Tide, Roll!” and “War Eagle!” at this started getting better,” Land says. “Auburn was basically year’s Iron Bowl, scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Nov. 26 in Tusaverage. Alabama saw that as nothing to gain – and it caloosa. More than 100,000 stadium seats will be filled could only help Auburn, not us. Then came Auburn in in a colorful and screaming display of fan loyalty far rethe 1950s, and they started getting good, while Alabama moved from the first meeting in 1893. But the game will had started slowly dropping back.” be played and cheered with the same collegiate pride. Different coaches at the universities added to team And this year, no one’s talking expense money for reputations, coaches like as Auburn’s Ralph “Shug” Jorplayers, or worrying about officials. Next year they’ll dan and Alabama’s Paul “Bear” Bryant. play in Auburn. Guaranteed.d

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

Harbor Days

Visitors from Guymon, Okla.

‘Sister cities’ converge on Foley Nov. 5-7

By Jennifer S. Kornegay

he city of Foley in south Alabama is perhaps best known for discount shopping and its close proximity to the sparkling waters and soft, white sands of the Gulf. Today, the many visitors drawn by these two factors have made tourism Foley’s largest industry. But there is more to this town than bargains and the beach, and every year since 2001, Foley has celebrated – and shared via a unique partnership – everything that makes it appealing, including its agricultural and fishing heritage, at its Heritage Harbor Days festival. This year marks the 10th Anniversary of Heritage Harbor Days, which takes place Nov. 5-7. Attendees

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

will find the requisite festival favorites: food, music and other forms of entertainment and activities. Yet this event goes so much further – all over the United States, as a matter of fact. Heritage Harbor Days is actually an annual cultural exchange between Foley and a city in another state. Each year since it began, Foley takes a 28-foot shrimp boat, the Miss Foley, and a small slice of its culture to another U.S. city. Alabama shares its boat builders, net makers, fried green tomatoes, seafood, country music and a gospel choir. Then, the city welcomes the people and items representing the culture of that year’s “sister city” down to Foley to share a bit about themselves and their home at the Heritage

who wanted to come down here Harbor Days festival. Approximately 55,000-60,000 people enjoyed the and make a life for themselves.” three-day event last year. Foley brought the railroad to the “It is a wonderful exchange of cul- town to transport and distribute the ture and heritage,” says David Horvaried harvests the land was offerton, the 2010 chairman of the event. ing. “Turpentine was big industry “Many friends have been made along the way, and it is just a great opportunity to share with others around our country.” Foley citizens have long been proud of their hometown. So when an event to honor the area’s lifestyle and culture was still on the drawing board in 2000, a bright idea illuminated a way to make the festival truly stand out. The Foley Convention and Visitor There will be plenty of music Bureau finalized a plan that put that strong “Foley Pride” on national display. For the inaugural event in 2001, the city partnered with Guymon, Okla. “Guymon brought us Native American dancers (who) through their movements, told the story of their people,” Horton says. “They also brought a Will Rodgers character. He was so entertaining; if you saw him you would have sworn that Replicas of the fishing boat Miss Foley was Will Rodgers on stage.” Other cities that have teamed up with Foley through the years include Grapevine, Texas (they brought elements of their internationally known wine making), Winchester, Tenn. (they brought the legendary Davey Crockett to town), and Maggie Valley, N.C. “It’s fascinating what we can learn from these sister cities,” Horton says. With its own rich history, Foley gives as much as it gets. Several local acts will be on hand Founded in 1905 by John Burton Foley, a gentleman from Chicain beginning, then after most of go, and incorporated in 1915, Foley the land was cleared, agriculture has been tied to the land since it became the big industry,” Donaldwas started. “Mr. Foley came to the son says. area and bought up 40,000 acres,” Crops like corn, potatoes, cucumBonnie Donaldson at the Foley Rail- bers and gladiolus flowers were road Museum says. “He then went plentiful, and cotton was grown in back to Chicago and formed a land and around Foley too. company to sell parcels to others Foley is equally proud of its

shrimping and fishing heritage. “We love sharing what shrimping, fishing, net-making, boats and the many ways we depend on our waterways mean to us,” Horton says. “It’s pretty neat to take Miss Foley to a school and show kids in Oklahoma how we catch shrimp; many of these kids have never seen anything like that before.” “Our connection to the land and water is still very important to the community,” Donaldson says. “Many shrimpers and charter boat operators live here.” Heritage Harbor Days’ innovative nature, along with a long list of fun, family activities, has earned the event the impressive distinction of being named “A Top 20 Event” by the Southeastern Tourism Society. For its 10th year, Foley has invited all its sister cities to come back to educate and entertain festival patrons. “There will be so many great things this year, a sampling of all the years past,” Horton says. “An old grape-crushing machine from Grapevine; and Davey Crockett is coming back, as is a Cajun zydeco band. There will be plenty of food, a lot more live music, including local acts. There’s really something for everyone.” It’s obvious that throughout the year, and especially in November, Foley has much to offer visitors, but behind all the event excitement, Foley is remembered by its guests and loved by its citizens for one reason: the people. “I was born and raised in Foley, but I moved to Houston to teach,” Donaldson says. “I came back in 1996. The old saying, ‘You can’t go home again’ is not true. When I got back, I felt like I’d never left. The people are so welcoming and open. Even though Foley has grown tremendously, none of us here have ever forgotten our small-town roots.”d

Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

Destinations

Red Door Theatre ‘Wise Women’ set for Dec. 2-4; next year’s theme is ‘All Southern All the Time’

Getting There Directions from Montgomery: Follow I-85 north toward Atlanta Take Exit 11 and turn onto Alabama 110 east. Follow Alabama 110 until it dead ends into Hwy 82. Take Hwy 82 east into Union Springs. For more information call 334-7388687 or visit the theater’s website, www.reddoortheatre.org.

Union Springs

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

Union Springs’s Red Door Theatre, established in 2002 in a vacant Episcopal church on the main street of the town, has quickly developed an outstanding reputation as a quality regional theater. It offers audiences the opportunity to experience entertaining productions in an intimate 160-seat setting in a charming Alabama town. Performances are always sold out so the theater’s patrons have learned to purchase tickets far in advance. Season subscriptions are also available, offering reserved seating as well as other amenities. The theatre’s 2010 season titled Simply Southern has been a celebration of the region’s heritage, culture, and future. Each of the four plays produced this year has a cherished connection to the South and her citizens. “Wise Women,” the theatre’s last production of the season with performances Dec. 2-4, easily plucks the holiday heart strings with its Christmas setting and serenading by Frank Sinatra and other 1940s music. In Ron Osborne’s play, two girls who have traveled from afar to work at a munitions factory in Knoxville move in with a single mom and her 17-year-old daughter. All three women have secrets hidden in their histories, and amid this crew of grin and bearers, Mom attempts to keep her daughter out of boytrouble.

A festive buffet reception held in a nearby location accompanies each performance. To make theatre patrons’ stay complete, overnight accommodations with breakfast for two are available at local hunting lodges. Next year’s Red Door Theatre season, All Southern All the Time, continues the tradition of celebrating the South’s heritage, culture and future. It consists of four productions including wellknown favorite “Driving Miss Daisy” to be presented April 28, 29, 30 and May 5, 6 and 7. Three other Southern plays will be offered in 2011. “Country Songs,” the first production of next year, is scheduled Feb. 17-19, and is a rollicking comedy with a happy ending. What could be more Southern than a play about a beauty shop, country music, and being jilted by an ex-husband? After the spring production of “Driving Miss Daisy,” “The Exact Center of the Universe” follows Aug. 4, 5 and 6. Described by The New Yorker as “an amiable comedy about a classic Southern dragonlady mother, sharply written and flawlessly elegant that poignantly evokes the passing years.” The last play of 2011, “Christmas Letters,” will be performed Dec. 1, 2 and 3. This heart-warming play carries audiences through three generations of Christmas letterwriters.d

Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

Alabama Gardens

FOR THE GARDENER IN YOUR LIFE Give a hod, gnome or load of compost to brighten any gardener’s holiday Gift-giving season is fast approaching, which means it’s time for us gardeners to create our wish lists. After all, helping guide our friends and family to the perfect gift is the polite thing to do, right? There are a few things that we may simply want whether we need them or not. Among those is a gardening “hod.” A hod is a curved wire mesh basket with, usually, a wooden handle and ends. Hods are quite attractive and can be used as decorative or picnic baskets, but what makes them especially appealing for the working gardener is that wire mesh. Fill them with freshly harvested vegetables or garden hand tools, then hose down the entire basket to clean off dirt. A fun item that may appeal to gardeners’ “tacky” sides – or can be a great gag gift – is the Gnome and Garden, a kitschy kit containing a gnome statue complete with a miniature lawn and plastic flowers and The Garden Gnome Book, which offers details on gnome lore. The Matchstick Garden, seed tapes and houseplant compost tea bags are great stocking stuffers. The Matchstick Garden is a pocketsized booklet containing “matches” embedded with herb seeds. Seed tapes are biodegradable strips

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

By Katie Jackson implanted with the tiny seeds of onions, radishes, carrots, beets and leafy greens that can be laid in a furrow for easier planting. The compost tea bags are filled with natural organic fertilizer that can be steeped in water to brew up a natural fertilizer for houseplants. For the kid in you, think about windowsill garden kits or the Garden Game board game. Though I may be a little too old to be seen in public wearing these, Wellies – those colorful, plastic waterproof boots that seem to be all the rage among coeds here on campus – look very appealing for children or adults to use during the cold and rainy days of gardening. (They can be found in more muted colors for the less-flashy or more masculine gardener.). Tool belts and buckets are great gifts, as are kneelers and knee pads. Kitchen counter compost pails or a load of compost or manure also may be just the thing for the gardener in your life.d

Katie Jackson is associate editor for the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station. Contact her at csmith@acesag.auburn.edu

Garden tips for

November

3 Now through midNovember is a great time to plant wildflowers. 3 Plant a windowsill herb garden for winter kitchen flavors. 3 Make wreaths and other holiday decorations from vines, seed pods, twigs, dried herbs and flowers. 3 Prepare lawn mowers and other power tools for winter storage by cleaning them and flushing out remaining gasoline. 3 Remove dead plants and debris from flower and vegetable beds. 3 Store unused pesticides in sealed containers and place them in freezeprotected locations. 3 Turn the compost pile. Test your soil and begin adding needed amendments once the results are in. 3 Plant leafy greens such as lettuce, arugula and spinach, as well as garlic. d

Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

Buck Big The

f you are a deer hunter, you’ve probably looked forward to this month for quite a while now. Perhaps you’ve done some pre-season scouting and located a nice buck’s living area and already set up a place to hunt on opening day of gun season. You may have spent the last few months planting food plots, cutting shooting lanes and placing game cameras in different areas in order to improve your chances of success this season. You may have already been hunting with a bow and have located a big buck that did not get close enough to allow a clean bow kill. Or you may be like many hunters and are just planning on dusting off Ole Betsy and going to a deer stand to see what happens. Those hunters who have put in some time working and scouting before opening day will increase their chances of seeing better deer. And, with all the work behind you, now’s the time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. We all look forward to a cool, crisp Alabama morning or afternoon in the woods. And when the moment comes and that chanceof-a-lifetime buck appears, you need to be prepared.

Comfort counts Depending on the weather, it’s best to be prepared in Alabama for anything. You can enter the woods at daylight when it’s 40 degrees. By 9:30 a.m., it can rise into the mid

Alan White is publisher of Great Days Outdoors magazine. To learn more, www.greatdaysoutdoors.com or call 800-597-6828.

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

80s. Dress in layers so you can shed clothing as the temperature heats up. Don’t forget to take water with you if you’re going to be hunting for a few hours at a time. Being thirsty can be agonizing and may even cause you to cut your hunt short. Take a cushion. If you are going to be hunting in a shooting house with a wooden bench seat, you’re going to get uncomfortable, which causes you to move around more. If you want to be still and quiet, consider carrying along a cushion to sit on.

Brush up your shooting skills Be patient. Don’t rush the shot. Let the deer settle down if he’s coming in to a food plot. Let him put his head down to eat a few times until his head remains down for more than 10 seconds before you begin to aim your rifle. Wait for the right position. Let the deer move until he is broadside to you or slightly quartering away. This not only offers you a larger target, but offers you a much better chance of a clean kill shot. Pick a spot. You want the bullet to travel through the vitals of the deer. The lungs and heart region is located just behind the front shoulder and between the bottom and midway point of the deer’s body vertically. Aim for a spot on the deer’s vitals region; don’t just aim at the whole region. Squeeze, don’t pull. After your sight has settled in to the spot you want to shoot, squeeze the trigger without moving the gun. Don’t get too anxious to see the deer fall. If you look up immediately when you squeeze the trigger, you’ll pull the gun and miss your mark. Reload now! Don’t wait. Keep

Be comfortable, pick your spot, and be patient By Alan White

your gun sighted on the downed animal until all movement stops. You’ll want to be ready as soon as possible in case the deer gets up again. Many deer are wounded and lost because the hunter “assumes” that the deer is dead.

After the kill If you prefer to take your deer to a deer processor, take it as soon as possible. If you prefer to handle the meat processing yourself, try to get to the cleaning process as soon as possible. The quality of meat on the dinner table can be adversely affected if you wait too long, especially in warm weather. Try to keep the deer out of the direct heat of the sun. Hang the deer, skin and remove the entrails, then wash the carcass with cool water inside and out. After quartering the carcass and thoroughly washing the meat, place the meat in a cooler and cover with ice to cool it down. Once the meat has cooled you can process the meat for freezing or cooking.d November Wildlife Management Tips

Apply a top dressing of ammonium nitrate to your food plots. It will boost the production of the plant. Healthy, actively growing plants attract more wildlife. Plan now for areas to plant wildlifeattracting trees later. Good places to plant trees for wildlife include road intersections, roadside management areas, and in and along the edge of food plots. Create or recharge mineral licks for deer. A good rule of thumb is to place one lick for every 200 acres. Deer will use these throughout the spring and summer growing season if the natural habitat lacks the minerals they need.d

Tables indicate peak fish and game feeding and migration times. Major periods can bracket the peak by an hour before and an hour after. Minor peaks, half-hour before and after. Adjusted for daylight savings time. a.m. p.m. Minor Major Minor Major

Nov. 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Dec 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

09:16 10:01 10:31 11:16 11:46 07:31 08:16 09:01 10:01 10:46 11:31 -- 12:31 02:31

04:16 05:01 05:31 06:16 06:46 12:01 12:46 01:31 02:01 03:01 03:46 05:01 06:16 07:31

03:01 03:16 03:46 04:16 -- 12:16 01:01 01:46 02:46 04:16 06:01 07:16 01:01 01:31

10:01 10:31 11:01 11:31 04:46 05:16 05:46 06:16 07:01 08:01 10:01 12:16 08:16 09:01

08:31 09:31 10:31 11:16 11:46 07:46 08:16 09:01 09:31 10:16 10:46 11:31 -- 01:46 07:01 08:31 09:31 10:16 11:01 11:31 07:31 08:01 08:46 09:16 09:46 10:16 04:01 12:46 06:31 08:16 09:31

03:46 04:46 05:46 06:31 07:01 12:16 12:46 01:31 02:01 02:31 03:01 03:46 04:31 05:31 03:31 04:31 05:16 05:46 06:16 07:01 12:01 12:31 01:16 02:01 02:31 03:16 11:01 11:31 03:16 04:31 05:16

02:16 02:46 03:31 04:01 -- 12:31 01:01 01:46 02:46 03:46 05:01 11:01 07:31 12:31 01:01 01:46 02:31 03:01 03:46 -- 12:16 01:01 01:46 02:46 03:46 10:31 -- -- 12:16 01:16 02:16

09:31 10:16 11:01 11:31 04:31 05:16 05:46 06:31 07:01 07:46 09:01 06:31 12:01 08:16 08:46 09:31 10:01 10:46 11:16 04:31 05:01 05:46 06:31 07:31 08:46 05:01 06:16 07:31 08:31 09:16 10:16

Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

Safe@Home

SLEEP SAFELY Electric blankets should be replaced when worn or torn â&#x20AC;&#x201C; never wash them

Send your questions: Safe @ Home Alabama Living P.O. Box 244014 Montgomery, AL 36124 334-215-2732

safety@areapower.com

Jason Saunders & Michael Kelley are certified managers of Safety & Loss Control for the Alabama Rural Electric Association.

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

In winter space heaters and electric blankets may provide needed comfort, but they can also be deadly if they are not used with care. Last year a Centreville, Va., man died from smoke inhalation and thermal burns because of a fire, which inspectors blamed on an electric heater and an electric blanket that were too close to combustible materials. Authorities express concern about blankets that are more than 10 years old, since their wiring can be damaged by creasing, flexing, fraying and ordinary wear and tear. They suggest replacing any electric blanket that is worn or torn, where the electric cord is frayed, or where the temperature control is damaged. They also advise to turn your electric blanket off when not in use. Many older models have no internal temperature control to shut the blanket off when it gets too hot; if your blanket has no such internal control, consider replacing it with a newer model. Refrain from using more than one electric blanket (or heating pad) at a time. Do not use electric blankets and heating pads together. The heat generated by the combined appliances can cause serious burns. And do not plug your electric blanket into an outlet that is controlled by a light switch; the blanket could be switched on accidentally.

Although it cannot be seen, the heating element in an electric blanket is fragile, yet can work very hard. Do not pile toys, pillows, blankets or other materials on top of an electric blanket or tuck electric blankets underneath mattresses or other items; excessive heat may build up to the point where the blanket could ignite. Do not sit or lay on top of an electric blanket; this may damage the blanketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s internal coils and expose the heating element to combustible fabric. And finally, never ball up an electric blanket and leave it on; excessive heat may allow the blanket to ignite. Never wash an electric blanket. The twisting, tugging and turning action of the washing machine will damage the internal coils. Do not dry clean electric blankets; the chemicals used in the cleaning process may damage the heating insulation and increase the risk of fire. Never use an electric blanket that is wet; do not turn an electric blanket on to dry it out. Refrain from using electric blankets and hot water bottles together. After using the blanket, it should be stored flat. If that is not possible, roll it up or fold it with as few creases as possible; be careful when folding the blanket to protect the internal coils. Replace any blanket where the embedded heating wires have been displaced or damaged.d

Tailgating Sunday Favorites Party Time

Late Night Snacks

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collection of recipes from Alabama Living

Churches of Alabama c Coffee Table Book

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Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

Alabama Recipes Cook of the Month

Holiday Traditions

Sweet Potato Dumplings Harriet Frantz, Marshall-DeKalb EC

2 packages sweet crescent rolls 1 package sweet potato patties, cut in half 2 cups water

1½ sticks margarine 5 cups sugar 1 tablespoon corn starch 1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring

Roll each potato patty half in a crescent triangle. Place in a baking dish. Heat water, sugar, margarine, corn starch and vanilla. Pour over dumplings. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until crescent rolls are brown. Sprinkle with cinnamon when done.

Dad’s Famous Candy Bar Cookie 2 sticks oleo ½ cup peanut butter 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 box confectioner’s sugar 2½ cups graham cracker crumbs

⁄5 of a 4 ounce bar of paraffin 1 12-ounce package chocolate chips 1 cup coconut 1 cup chopped nuts

Use a large sauce pan. Melt oleo and peanut butter over low heat. Add vanilla, sugar, crumbs, coconut and nuts. Mix well and shape in one hand like a small Baby Ruth; chill. Make outside coating by melting paraffin and chocolate chips in the top of the double boiler. Dip bars in chocolate then cool on wax paper. Beth McLarty, Cullman EC Holiday traditions are so comforting. When I got married seven years ago, I realized that my husband and I needed to start some traditions of our own. One thing we do every Christmas morning is make sausage balls. I make so many, we freeze half the batch to have some on New Year’s Day. We only make sausage balls one time a year, so they are definitely a taste of the holidays for us. Thanks to all our readers for sending us your favorite holiday recipes to share in this issue.

MT’s Sausage Balls (So Easy!)

1 pound ground pork sausage 2 cups biscuit baking mix 1 pound sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded

In a large bowl, combine sausage, biscuit baking mix and cheese. Form into walnut size balls and place on baking sheets. Bake in 350 degree oven for 10 minutes, until golden brown. Freeze whatever you don’t eat.

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

CORRECTION: Last month’s Cook of the Month recipe had the wrong directions. We apologize for any inconvenience. The correct recipe is below.

Debbie Neal, Southern Pine EC

Brown Sugar Pot Roast

1 pot roast (3-4 pounds) 3 cups brown sugar 3 cups flour 1 onion, sliced 1 large can mushrooms, sliced and drained

Salt, to taste Garlic powder, to taste Onion powder, to taste ½ cup cooking oil 1½ cups water

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Take a fork and poke the roast several times on both sides. Cover all sides of the roast in brown sugar and then cover in flour. Heat oil in cast iron pot. Brown roast on both sides. Add sliced onions and mushrooms to the pot. Add water and cover; cook until roast is done, approximately 2 hours. The roast will make its own gravy. Serve with mashed potatoes or rice.

You could win $50! If your recipe is chosen as the cook-of-the-month recipe, we’ll send you a check for $50!

Upcoming recipe themes and deadlines are:

January February March

Oodles of Noodles (Pasta) November 15 Cream Cheese December 15 Chicken/Poultry January 15

Please send all submissions to: Recipe Editor P.O. Box 244014 Montgomery, AL 36124 or e-mail to: recipes@areapower. coop. Be sure to include your address, phone number and the name of your cooperative.

Editor’s Note: Alabama Living’s recipes are submitted by our readers. They are not kitchen tested by a professional cook or registered dietician. If you have special dietary needs, please check with your doctor or nutritionist before preparing any recipe.

Book Review By Martha Rouse Gates

Finding Martha’s Place: My Journey Through Sin, Salvation, and Lots of Soul Food Author: Martha Hawkins with Marcus Brotherton Publisher: Touchstone, $21.99

artha Hawkins knew when she was just a small child she wanted to own a restaurant some day. “I was sitting at the table eating that salty and smooth pork chop casserole with my mama and my daddy and all my brothers and sisters, and I dreamed of opening a restaurant someday that felt just like that,” Hawkins says. In her autobiographical book, “Finding Martha’s Place: My Journey Through Sin, Salvation, and Lots of Soul Food,” Hawkins candidly tells readers her life’s story. Hers is an eye-opening, heart-wrenching story about poverty, teenage pregnancy and depression. It’s also a heart-warming story about family bonds, divine guidance and hope. Dreams come true for Hawkins, who encourages others to make their dreams come true, too. An African American, Hawkins grew up poor in a family of 12 children in Montgomery, Ala., during the 1950s and ’60s. Even though money was scarce, Hawkins’ mother always had a good meal ready for her large family. Hawkins followed her mother’s example by providing her four boys with tasty, homecooked food and plenty of love. The obstacles Hawkins overcame seemed insurmountable. Hardworking and courageous, she was a single mother who lived in public housing projects. She was violently attacked, had multiple physical illnesses, and overcame depression before opening her successful restaurant and becoming an inspirational speaker. Hawkins has been featured in many publications including The New York Times, O, The Oprah Magazine, Southern Living, Essence and Guideposts. In 1988 Hawkins opened Martha’s Place restaurant in downtown Montgomery. She has served southern-style cuisine in a homey atmosphere for over two decades. “Finding Martha’s Place,” includes several recipes from the restaurant and is available in bookstores and online.

Martha’s Place recipes Fried Green Tomatoes

Sallie Hawkins’ Cornbread

4 large green tomatoes ½ cup flour 1 cup yellow cornmeal

1½ cups self-rising cornmeal ¼ cup sugar ½ cup self-rising flour 2 eggs

1 cup cooking oil Salt and pepper, to taste

Cut the tomatoes into ½-inch slices. Combine the cornmeal, flour, salt and pepper in a bowl. Coat both sides of the tomato slices with mixture. Heat half the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the tomato slices on both sides. You’ll need to do this in batches; the tomatoes should not overlap. Drain on paper towels.

2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 cup buttermilk 4 tablespoons shortening, melted ½ cup water

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Combine all the ingredients in a medium mixing bowl. Stir with a wooden spoon until thoroughly blended. Pour the mixture into a well-greased skillet and bake 35 minutes until golden brown.

Want to see the Cook of the Month recipe before the magazine gets to your door? Become a fan of Alabama Living on facebook.

Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

Christmas Potatoes

3 pounds red-skinned potatoes 2 large onions ½ teaspoon salt ¼ cup butter 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups evaporated milk ¾ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper ½ cup parsley 1-2 ounces pimentos

Peel and cut potatoes. Combine potatoes, onions and salt. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat; cook 5 minutes. Drain; set aside. Melt butter and add flour, stir until smooth. Cook 1 minute. Slowly add milk, stirring constantly. Cook over medium heat until thick. Add salt, pepper, parsley and pimento. Arrange potato and onion in casserole dish, pour sauce over top. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.

Semi-Homemade Caramel Apple Gourmet Cinnamon Rolls

5 count Pillsbury Grand cinnamon rolls (with cream cheese icing), sliced in half horizontally

Preheat oven as directed. Spray each muffin cup with non-stick cooking spray. Combine pie filling and caramel bits in small bowl, set aside. Lightly press individual cinnamon rolls in muffin cups. Top with heaping tablespoon of apple/caramel mixture. Bake as directed. Top with cream cheese icing. May garnish with additional caramel bits, if desired. Cook’s note: If making large amounts, consider the foil baking liners instead of muffin pan. Sonji Breeding Dunn, Joe Wheeler EMC

Beverly Brooks, Central Alabama EC

Apple Cheese Dish

Best Holiday Pumpkin Pie

¾ cup sugar ½ cup self-rising flour ¼ stick butter

1 deep dish pie shell 2 eggs, slightly beaten 1 16-ounce can pumpkin ½ cup sugar ¼ cup confectioner’s sugar ½ teaspoon salt 1⁄8 teaspoon allspice

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground cloves 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk Cool Whip, for topping

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine eggs, pumpkin, sugars, salt, allspice, cinnamon, cloves and milk. Pour filling into pie shell. Bake near center of oven for 70 minutes. Cool on wire rack. Serve with Cool Whip. Tammy C. Stewart,Wiregrass EC

Christmas 24 Hour Salad

1 quart whipping cream 2 cups crushed pineapple, drained 2 jars chopped cherries, red or green

1 large bag coconut 1 cup pecans, chopped 1 large bag small marshmallows

Stir all ingredients together. Place in refrigerator for 24 hours.

½ bag Kraft caramel mini bits 1 can apple pie filling

1 cup shredded cheese 6-7 tart apples, thinly sliced

Combine sugar and flour, cut in butter until crumbs.Add cheese, set aside. Peel and thinly slice the apples; place in baking dish. Add cheese mixture on top and pat down. Bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes, until brown. Betty Gilbert, Black Warrior EMC

Hot Chocolate

1 16-ounce box of nonfat dry milk 1 cup sugar

3/4 cup cocoa powder Mini marshmallows

Sift all ingredients together three times. Store this mixture in a tightly sealed container in a cool place. When ready to use, add a couple of heaping tablespoons to hot water. Sprinkle miniature marshmallows on top. Jackie Harbin, Arab EC

Breakfast Cheesecake

2 packages crescent rolls 1 cup sugar 2 8-ounce packages cream 1 teaspoon vanilla cheese, softened ¾ cup pecans (optional), 1 egg, separated chopped

Mary E. Jenkins, Southern Pine EC

Press 1 package of rolls on bottom of greased 9x13-inch baking pan. Mix cream cheese, sugar, vanilla and egg yolk; beat until Who Pudding smooth. Spread on top of bottom crust. Press out second can of rolls and place on top of cheese filling. Beat egg white until foamy 1 package instant vanilla 1 cup milk pudding 1 cup Egg Nog (no alcohol) and spread over top crust. Scatter pecans on top, if desired. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes. Cool completely before Mix all ingredients. Chill for 10 minutes. Serve. cutting into bars. Store in refrigerator. Teresa Frank, Baldwin EMC

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

Alice Smith, Sand Mountain EC Editor’s Note: Alabama Living’s recipes are submitted by our readers. They are not kitchen tested by a professional cook or registered dietician. If you have special dietary needs, please check with your doctor or nutritionist before preparing any recipe.

CALLING ALL QUILTERS

AREA’s th 6 Quilt Competition The theme for this quilt is ‘Small Town Alabama’ What is it?

• A competition for cooperative handworkers to make squares for the sixth AREA cooperative quilt • Winners will be given statewide recognition. PARTICIPATION IS FREE! For information and guidelines, please complete the form below and mail or fax it to: Linda Partin Alabama Rural Electric Association P.O. Box 244014 Montgomery, AL 36124 Fax: 334-215-2733 Or e-mail lpartin@areapower.com

I would like to participate in AREA’s Quilt Competition. Please send guidelines and information to: Name __________________________________ Address ________________________________ City ____________________________________ State _ ________ Zip _____________________ Phone __________________________________ E-mail __________________________________ Cooperative _____________________________ (Cooperative name Alabama | NOVEMBER 2010 | isLiving on cover of magazine)

Classifieds Miscellaneous DIVORCE MADE EASY – Uncontested, lost spouse, in prison or aliens. $149.95 our total fee. Call 10am to 10pm. 26 years experience – (417)443-6511 WALL BEDS OF ALABAMA – Custom Built / Bookcases - (256)4904025 Reps, www.andyswallbeds.com I BUY OLD CLOCKS – Grandfather, Wall and Mantel – Call (256)3632476 SHOPPING CART SEAT COVERS FOR BABIES – Custom made – leave a message (334)335-5111

GULF SHORES / FT. MORGAN / NOT A CONDO! The original “Beach House” on Ft. Morgan peninsula – 2BR/1BA – pet friendly, non-smoking – $675/wk, (256)418-2131 PRIVATE COTTAGE ON CEDAR LAKE – Russellville, AL. Many amenities. (256)436-0341 BEAUTIFUL CABIN with HOT TUB near Pigeon Forge and Dollywood – 85 dollars per night – Call (865)428-1497 GATLINBURG and PIGEON FORGE CABINS – 3BR, hot tub, gameroom, WiFi ($149 - $295 / night) – www.smokiesrental.com, (205)663-3697 WEEKS BAY – Waterfront, 3/3, boat dock - $100 / night – (251)269-0634

AERMOTOR WATER PUMPING WINDMILLS – windmill parts – decorative windmills – custom built windmill towers - call Windpower (256)638-4399 or (256)638-2352

SMITH LAKE “ROLL TIDE” CABIN, ARLEY – Two bedroom, $75 / night or $500 / week, deep water access – (205)522-7115

WORK CLOTHES – GOOD CLEAN RENTAL TYPE: 6 pants and 6 shirts, $44.95 – Lined work jackets, $10.95 – Denim jeans, $6.00 – Call (800)2331853, www.usedworkclothing.com – 100% satisfaction guaranteed

RV SPACE RENTAL ON BEAUTIFUL PRIVATE LAKE – Tuscaloosa County – Weekend, weekly or monthly rate – (205)339-0807, (205)361-7536 or (205)242-5884

CUSTOM MACHINE QUILTING BY JOYCE – Bring me your quilt top or t-shirts. Various designs offered – (256)735-1543

GULF SHORES PLANTATION CONDO – 2/2, sleeps 6, in/out-door pools, golf, tennis – Owner rates (812)282-9384

WOODEN CHRISTMAS TREE ORNAMENTS – Order early for Christmas – Call Bud at (251)246-2383, budjuju@bellsouth.net

MENTONE, AL – LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN – billiard table, Jacuzzi, spacious home, sleeps fourteen – www.duskdowningheights.com, (850)6610678, (205)807-9909

FAMILY TREE RESEARCH – We can do it for you. Reasonable rates, quick results. Homeplace Research, dl12453@aol.com or (256)5068159 KEEP THE FISH ALIVE! Clean the ponds with our aeration windmills and pond supplies. Windpower (256)638-4399, (256)899-3850 OUTSIDE WOOD HEATER - $1,545.00 – Houses, mobiles, shops – www.heatbywood.com, (417)581-7755 Missouri MERCEDES BENZ C230 Sport – 2006, black with gray leather, 87k miles (all hwy), Still under factory warranty, Automatic, all power. Call Jay 334-462-2726. $16,100

Business Opportunities MOMS, READY FOR A CHANGE? Fun, flexible business at home. No parties, inventory or risk. Visit www.mybugnbee.com for more information.

SMITH LAKE VACATION HOME – 3BR / 2BA, 2 satellite TV’s, deep water - $75 night / $500 week – (256)352-5721, www.vacationsmithlake.com DAYTONA BEACH – Newly remodeled beachfront studio condo near Boardwalk and Convention Center. Call Jennifer in Scottsboro at (800)314-9777, www.funcondos.com LAKE JORDAN COTTAGE – Nice, clean, 1 bedroom, dock, great fishing - $75 night. (334)313-0078 DISNEY – FLORIDA: 6BR / 4.5BA, private pool – VRBO#234821, www. skeetersvilla.com – (423)802-9176 HOUSE FOR RENT ON ALABAMA RIVER – across from River Oaks, South of Orrville – Fully furnished, 3BR / 1.5BA, fireplace, non-smoking, boat dock & ramp. Monthly rates call (334)872-6124 GULF SHORES CONDO – 2BR / 1.5BA, sleeps 6, pool, beach access – (334)790-9545

APPRAISAL CAREER OPPORTUNITY – Recession proof business. Our top appraisers earn over $100,000/year appraising livestock and equipment. Agricultural background required. Classroom or home study courses available. (800)488-7570, www.amagappraisers.com LIVE IN SITTER help needed – Call (334)207-6181

SMOKIES TOWNSEND, TN – 2BR/2BA, secluded log home, fully furnished. Toll free (866)448-6203, (228)832-0713

BEAUTICONTROL – A beauty business specializing in personalized skin care, anti-aging, glamour and spa parties. Become a consultant. Training, flexible hours, excellent income – www.beautipage.com/marthabrooks or (256)764-9102

PIGEON FORGE, TN – Log cabins in the Smokies – (251)649-3344 or (251)649-4049, www.hideawayprop.com

START YOUR OWN BUSINESS! Home / Internet based – Mia Bella’s Candles / Gifts / Beauty. The best candles on the market. Wonderful income potential! Visit www.naturesbest.scent-team.com and enter to win a free candle NEW! GROW EXPENSIVE PLANTS, 2,000% profit, Earn to $50,000 year, FREE information, Growbiz Box 3738-AB11, Cookeville,TN 38502 www.growbiz-abco.com

Vacation Rentals

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

GULF SHORES PLANTATION - Gulf view, beach side, 2 bedrooms / 2 baths, no smoking / no pets. Owner rates (205)339-3850

GATLINBURG, TN CHALET – 3BR / 3BA Baskins Creek – Fallfest, 10 minute walk downtown, Aquarium, National Park – (334)289-0304 ORANGE BEACH CONDO, 3BR/3BA; 2,000 SQ.FT.; beautifully decorated; gorgeous waterfront view; boat slips available; great rates - Owner rented (251)604-5226 CABIN IN MENTONE – 2/2, brow view, hottub – For rent $100/night or Sale $275,000 – (706)767-0177

ADVERTISING DEADLINES: February Issue – Dec. 15 March Issue – Jan. 15 $1.65 per word April Issue – Feb. 15

For Advertising, contact Heather: 1-800-410-2737 or hdutton@areapower.com - Subject Line: Classifieds

ORANGE BEACH, AL – FOR SALE / LEASE, LONG / SHORT TERM – Bellaluna on Bay with Million Dollar Views of Gulf & Bays – 3/3, furnished and unfurnished units, has numerous amenities, beach access & boat slips - $2,000 - $2,300 month - (251)752-2182

WE PAY CASH for SELLER FINANCED NOTES, Trust Deeds and Commercial / Business Notes, Nationwide! Free Quote / Fast Closing. Call (256)638-1930 or cwbell@consultant.com

GATLINBURG – DOWNTOWN LUXURY CREEKSIDE CONDO – 2BR / 2BA, sleeps 6 – aubie12@centurytel.net, (256)599-5552 GATLINBURG ONLY - $185 total price for 3 days and 2 nights – Condos available this Fall in a beautiful Gatlinburg Mountain resort - Call Jennifer in Scottsboro at (800) 314-9777 – www.funcondos.com HOUSE IN PIGEON FORGE, TN – fully furnished, sleeps 6-12, 3 baths, creek, no pets – (256)997-6771, www.riverrungetaway.org GULF SHORES – CRYSTAL TOWER CONDO – 2 bedroom, 2 bath, gulf view with lazy river pool on beach – www.vrbo.com #145108 – Call owner (205)429-4886 PIGEON FORGE,TN: $89 - $125, 2BR/2BA, hot tub, pool table, fireplace, swimming pool, creek – (251)363-1973, www.mylittlebitofheaven.com KATHY’S ORANGE BEACH CONDO – 2BR/2BA, non-smoking. Best rates beachside! Family friendly – (205)253-4985, www.angelfire.com/ planet/kathyscondo

BALDWIN COUNTY – 60 ACRE TREASURE FOREST, paved road, artesian well, nice camp house / barn combo – (251)660-8400, (251)422-3839 WATERFRONT HOME – LAKE WEISS – CENTRE, AL: 4BD / 3.5BA, 2 great rooms, 2 kitchens, In-ground pool, dock - $385,000 – (256)927-8607 LAKE JORDAN near Montgomery – Distress sale – 11.27 acres, 10 boat slips – www.cypressridgelakejordan.com - $525,000 OBO – (334)3130078 AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY AVAILABLE – High resolution aerial photography available from 1956 to present day. Photos cover the entire USA. Photography is perfect for viewing hunting land, developments, farms, cities, lakes, golf courses. Delivered on disc or printed. Sizes available up to 30”x40”. Call Will @ (205)242-2932 or email will@rrpub.com

Travel CARIBBEAN CRUISES AT THE LOWEST PRICE – (256)974-0500 or (800)726-0954

GULF SHORES – 1 and 2 bedroom gulf front condos – www.vrbo.com #288789 – Call owner (205)429-4886 or (205)363-0175 Cell GATLINBURG TOWNHOUSE VILLAGE on BASKINS CREEK! $160 / night, tax included - 4BR/3BA, short walk downtown attractions! (205)333-9585, hhideaway401@aol.com. GATLINBURG / PIGEON FORGE CABIN – 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, hot tub, gameroom – www.vrbo.com/175531, www.wardvacationrentalproperties.com, (251)363-8576 GULF SHORES BEACH COTTAGE – affordable, waterfront, pet friendly – http://www.vrbo.com/152418, (251)223-6114 ALWAYS THE LOWEST PRICE $65.00 - beautiful furnished mountain cabin near Dollywood, Sevierville, TN - (865)453-7715 PANAMA CITY BEACH CONDO – Owner rental – 2BR / 2BA, just remodeled inside and outside – (334)790-0000, jamesrny@graceba.net, www.theroneycondo.com GATLINBURG, TN – Fond memories start here in our chalet – Great vacation area for all seasons – Two queen beds, full kitchen, 1 bath, Jacuzzi, deck with grill – Call today toll free (866)316-3255, www.hillshideaway.com GULF SHORES RENTAL BY OWNER – Great rates – (256)490-4025 or www.gulfshoresrentals.us ALABAMA RIVER LOTS / MONROE COUNTY, AL – Lease / Rent – (334)469-5604 HELEN GA CABIN FOR RENT – sleeps 2-6, 2.5 baths, fireplace, Jacuzzi, washer/dryer – www.cyberrentals.com/101769 - (251)948-2918, email jmccracken@gulftel.com PIGEON FORGE,TN – 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath house for rent $75.00 a night – Call Bonnie at (256)338-1957

Real Estate LUXURY MOBILE HOME IN CONECUH COUNTY – 16x80’ on 1.6 acres, 3BR / 2BA, all appliances included. 2 glassed in sunporches, carport outside storage building on cement slab. Near Sepulga River, quiet area. Call (251)578-1588

Musical Notes PIANOS TUNED, repaired, refinished. Box 171, Coy, AL 36435. 334-3374503 PLAY GOSPEL SONGS by ear! Add chords. 10 lessons $12.95. “Learn Gospel Music”. Chording, runs, fills - $12.95 Both $24. Davidsons, 6727AR Metcalf, Shawnee Missions, Kansas 66204

Education FREE BIBLE CORRESPONDENCE COURSE – write to 23600 Alabama Highway 24, Trinity, AL, 35673 BECOME AN ORDAINED MINISTER correspondence study. Founded in 1988. Free info. Ministers for Christ Outreach, 7549 West Cactus #104207 Peoria, Arizona 85381. http://www.ordination.org WWW.2HOMESCHOOL.ORG – Year round enrollment. Everybody homeschools. It is just a matter of what degree. Contact Dr. Cerny (256)705-3560 or website.

Critters ADORABLE SHI-TZU PUPPIES, AKC, non-shedding, home raised – average 7-9 pounds, some smaller – (334)391-8493, (334)272-3268 ADORABLE AKC YORKY PUPPIES – excellent blood lines – (334)3011120, (334)537-4242, bnorman@mon-cre.net CHIHUAHUA PUPPIES. Tiny, registered, guaranteed healthy, raised indoors in loving home, vet records and references. (256)796-2893

Fruits, Berries, Nuts & Trees GROW MUSCADINES AND BLACKBERRIES, half dollar size – We offer over 200 varieties of Fruit and Nut Trees plus Vines and Berry Plants. Free color catalog. 1-800-733-0324. Ison’s Nursery, P.O. Box 190, Brooks, GA 30205. Since 1934. www.isons.com

Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

Marketplace

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

Alabama Living | NOVEMBER 2010 |

Our Sources Say

NEW RATE OPTIONS In April 2011, TVA will offer wholesale customers a new pricing structure Simply put, low electricity prices are “good business,” and TVA is committed to providing customers with reliable electric power at the lowest feasible cost. In fact, keeping “prices as low as are feasible” is part of TVA’s original mission. Power bills in the TVA region are lower than the national average. To keep them that way, TVA continues to listen to customers, stimulate economic development, promote energy efficiency and reduce peak power demand. While low prices are a part of TVA’s core mission, TVA will provide more options for customers to manage their energy costs in the future. TVA’s focus will be on the total bill that customers pay for electricity. Competitive prices = more jobs in the TVA service region TVA knows competitive prices are key to attracting businesses to the region and creating jobs. Site Selection magazine recently chose TVA as one of the top 10 North American utilities for achievements in economic development. Being recognized by Site Waymon Pace is general manager, customer service of the Tennessee Valley Authority in Alabama.

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

Selection magazine for the fifth consecutive year is definitely a win for all of our economicdevelopment partners. New pricing structure = greater flexibility and savings for customers Under the new wholesale pricing structure, customers will be able to better manage their energy costs. The TVA Board of Directors recently approved two new wholesale rates that vary depending on the seasons of the year and time of day. The rates become effective in April 2011. Distributors will have the flexibility to decide when and how to implement this new pricing structure for their retail customers depending on what they feel best serves their customers’ needs. Distributors will be able to offer time-of-use rates and seasonal demand and energy rates to some large commercial and industrial customers. Time-of-use pricing has been available to some commercial and industrial customers for several years. These customers have saved up to 30 percent, and TVA has reduced peak power demand by more than 200 megawatts (enough power to sustain a small distributorship). TVA is implementing this wholesale rate structure in April 2011 to encourage energy

To keep power bills low, TVA continues to listen to customers, stimulate economic development, promote energy efficiency and reduce peak power demand

efficiency and peak-demand reduction, giving customers who are willing to alter when and how they use electricity the opportunity to lower their bills.d

Our Sources Say

WHAT NOW? The latest EPA comments could mean a change in American energy lifestyles Those of you that follow my articles are familiar with my opinions concerning climate change, greenhouse gases (GHG) and the effects of anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions. While I don’t know for certain the danger (or lack thereof) of GHG emissions in the atmosphere, I think it is ill-advised to ruin the country’s economy by dramatically increasing energy costs to reduce GHG emissions. I am absolutely convinced we’ll ruin our economy and lose manufacturing jobs to other countries due to an increase in the cost of goods and services as a result of artificially elevating energy prices to reduce GHG emissions. However, if we want to provide for our energy needs, including electricity, with less carbon dioxide emissions, nuclear power is our best option. It is carbon free, or at least we think of it as a GHGemission-free source of generation. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – or at least EPA Region IV – says that is not so. In comments to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s Draft

Gary Smith is President and CEO of PowerSouth Energy Cooperative

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) on the Virgil Summer Nuclear Station in South Carolina, the EPA filed comments that cast doubt on the Obama administration’s apparent support of nuclear power and questions the NRC’s determination that the carbon profile of nuclear projects is a “small fraction” of fossil fuel plants. In its comments, EPA Region IV takes issue with the NRC’s statement that nuclear power results in significantly lower carbon dioxide emissions than coal or natural gas-fired electric generation. EPA states that NRC’s evaluation does not convey an accurate picture of the full lifecycle of carbon dioxide emissions of the nuclear generation process. EPA concludes that the carbon footprint of uranium enrichment is comparable to the carbon footprint of two coal-fired generation plants in South Carolina. Finally, EPA Region IV assigns an EC2 rating for the Summer Nuclear Project, meaning it has identified environmental impacts that should be avoided. How absurd is the EPA’s conclusion that the lifecycle carbon dioxide footprint of nuclear generation is comparable to the carbon dioxide emissions of coalfired generation? That unique position exhibits the true agenda of EPA and other environmentalists, which is to dramatically change

your lifestyle. If you decided to change the energy usage in your lifestyle, what would you change? Would you choose to heat your house less when it is cold? How about less air conditioning when it is hot? Can you watch less high definition television? Are you willing to use your computers less? What about letting your cell phone batteries go down? Less video games for the kids? Hang your clothes out to dry instead of running the dryer? What about generation to power the electric automobiles everyone talks about? If the EPA objects to the construction of coal and natural gas-fired generation because of carbon dioxide emissions and also objects to nuclear generation, where will new electric generation come from to meet your load growth? The answer is, “there is nothing” that meets that challenge. Not wind and certainly not solar. The only solution is to change your lifestyle and use less electricity. We can use electricity more wisely in some instances, but to significantly reduce electric usage – even with smart grids and smart appliances – is highly unlikely. What would you do to reduce your electric usage, especially if the price doubles or triples? With this administration, it might be good to start thinking about it.d

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January Theme:

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Winter in Dixieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Send color photos with a large return envelope to: Photos, Alabama Living, P.O. Box 244014, Montgomery, AL, 36124.

p Mojo, submitted by Rozell & Paula Underwood, Morris

| NOVEMBER 2010 | Alabama Living

Rules: Alabama Living will pay $10 for photos that best match our theme of the month. We cannot be responsible for lost or damaged photos.

Deadline for submission:

November 30

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