Alabama Living Central June 2012

Staying Grounded with GFCIs June 2012

Central Alabama

Electric

Cooperative

Plugging into the future?

A look at the role of electric cars

Generating Safety Using portable electric generators safely

www.caec.coop

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www.alabamaliving.coop

Vol. 65 No. 3 APRIL 2012

Lıvıng

ON THE COVER: ON THE COVER:

The future of XXXXXX PHEVs in the U.S. Gyuszkofoto / Shutterstock.com Central Alabama Electric Cooperative P.O. Box 681570 Prattville, AL 36067 www.caec.coop

FAVORITES

9 Spotlight

Advertising and Editorial Offices: 340 TechnaCenter Dr. Montgomery, AL 36117-6031 1-800-410-2737 E-mail: jclayton@areapower.coop National Advertising Representative: National Country Market 611 South Congress Ave., Ste. 504 504Austin, TX 78704 Austin, TX 78704 1-800-626-1181 www.nationalcountrymarket.com Alabama Rural Electric Association: Fred Braswell, AREA President Darryl Gates, Editor Melissa Henninger, Managing Editor Mark Stephenson, Creative Director Michael Cornelison, Art Director Mary Tyler Spivey, Recipe Editor Jay Clayton, Director, Marketing & Advertising Alabama Living is delivered to some 420,000 Alabama families and businesses which are members of 22 not-for-profit, consumer owned, locally directed and taxpaying electric cooperatives. Member subscriptions are $3 per year; nonmembers are $6. Alabama Living (USPS 029-920) is published monthly by AREA. Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Ala. and Ala., andat atadditional additionalmailing mailingoffice office.

POSTMASTER send forms 3579 to: Alabama Living, P.O. Box 244014 244014, Montgomery, AL 36124-4014.

Montgomery, AL 36124-4014.

10 Power Pack 18 Alabama Gardens FEATURES

20 Alabama Bass Trail

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22 Worth the Drive

Your Voice in D.C.

The importance of the co-op voice on Capitol Hill

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STORM SEASON

24 Consumer Wise

Although tornadoes have been on the minds of Alabamians recently, hurricane season is now upon us.

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Col. Dewey L. Smith Fighter pilot, two-time Silver Star recipient, prisoner of war, and American hero

26 Cook of the Month XX

38 Alabama Snapshots

USPS 029-920 ISSN 1047-0311

Printed in America from American materials

Alabama Living

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June 2012 3

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Economic Development Results Energize Growth and Progress Board of Trustees Chase Riddle Chairman, Prattville

Jimmie Harrison, Jr. Vice Chairman, Maplesville

Ruby J. Neeley Secretary/Treasurer, Jemison

C. Milton Johnson Statesville

Mark Presnell, Sr. Wetumpka

Patsy M. Holmes Wetumpka

Terry Mitchell Stewartville

David A. Kelley, Sr. Rockford

Van Smith Billingsley

Charles Byrd Deatsville

Contact US Toll Free: 1-800-545-5735 Outage Hotline: 1-800-619-5460 www.caec.coop Prattville Office: 1802 U.S. Hwy. 31 North Mailing: P.O. Box 681570 Prattville, AL 36068 Clanton Office: 1601 7th St. North Rockford Office: U.S. Hwy. 231 Wetumpka Office: 637 Coosa River Pkwy.

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t was Benjamin Franklin who said “Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement and success have no meaning.”

During good and bad economic times, Franklin’s quote reminds us all that success is the result of an investment. Whether the investment is in human capital, improvements in critical infrastructure or regional competitiveness, thriving communities have a vision of success for the future.

At Central Alabama Electric Cooperative (CAEC), we are committed to helping our communities grow and progress in a successful direction. After all, concern for community is one of the seven cooperative principles by which CAEC and the other co-ops around the country operate.

Successful economic development efforts rely on alliances among the business community partnering with local, state and federal governmental leaders. When public/private partnerships are developed, the focus on job creation is strengthened, and many times those new jobs can best be created through the synergy that comes from a business park where appropriate infrastructure is planned and provided so businesses can be clustered and meet the needs of their customers.

The most recent example of this type of partnership is the Chilton County Business Park located off I-65 near Verbena. With its strategic location providing key access to the state’s only north/south interstate corridor, it will attract the attention of business decision makers. This partnership model was previously successful in Autauga County’s first business park.

The Interstate Business Park, located in Prattville, has yielded more than $2 million in federal and state grants to bring employment opportunities and tax dollars to that park, and it serves as home to an automotive supplier as well as the soonGroundbreaking for the to-be-built Alabama Baptist Convention Alabama Baptist Convention Disaster Relief Center.

Disaster Relief Center.

When businesses and industries locate in our service territory, it is a positive accomplishment for everyone. Not only does the community thrive, but your cooperative has the opportunity to stabilize its load factor by selling electricity in the middle of the day when residential use is low. Ultimately, this is a benefit to our members because energy sales that occur during non-peak times help spread the cost of operating and maintaining our electrical system, resulting in the long-term as cost savings for all members.

Economic development can and should be a win-win situation for our members and region. By building an economic development product and showcasing our communities to prospective businesses and industries, we are investing in much more than just a location on the map. A

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Tom Stackhouse President/CEO

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On the Hill

ts s

Keeping an Eye on Energy Issues

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ach year, as many as 500 plus electric cooperatives The EPA itself, in two prior reports to Congress and from nearly every state in the nation collectively two related regulatory determinations, confirmed that send 2,500-3,000 representatives to Capitol Hill for a regulating CCRs as a hazardous material under the ReLegislative Conference. These people, who have regular source Conservation and Recovery Act is not necessary jobs, take time from their occupations and families to to protect public health and the environment. serve as the voice for more than 42 million cooperative While co-ops agree with the EPA’s goals to protect the members concerning issues that could directly affect the public’s health and the environment, as discussed in the price we all pay for power.

March issue of Alabama Living, making such a critical This year the cooperative initiative on Capitol Hill took change with CCRs could be viewed as giving that agency on a different tone as both houses of Congress were on unnecessary control and artificially raising the cost of recess. Not to be dissuaded from electricity that is tied to coal generathe goal of reminding those in tion. By deeming CCRs as hazardWashington that rural America ous materials, the National Rural needs to be considered in pendElectric Cooperative Association ing legislation, the co-op rep(NRECA) predicts the likely result resentatives held a Grassroots of a cost increase, due to new and Summit to discuss important expensive regulation, would leave policy issues with Capitol Hill utilities no option but to pass these staffers. One of the key issues costs to their consumers. discussed was directly held over The EPA is expected to issue a from last year’s Conference—the final rule regulating the manageCoal plants, such as Lowman Coal Residuals Reuse and Manment and disposal of CCRs by the which supply power to CAEC, are agement Act (H.R. 2273/S. 1751). end of 2012. directly impacted by issues such The bill, modeled after existThis subject is just one example as the Coal Residuals Reuse ing regulations for municipal of the type of legislative activity that and Management Act. waste disposal, concerns Coal NRECA continuously monitors on Combustion Residual Materials behalf of the nation’s cooperatives.

(CCRs), which are the remaining products from coal And while that is their job, the Association’s staff memthat is burned to produce electricity. CCRs, sometimes bers take every opportunity to thank the local co-op referred to as ‘coal ash’ or ‘fly ash’, when properly man- ambassadors who come to Washington, D.C., each year aged, offer environmental and economic benefits without because when elected officials come face to face with harm to public health. More than 40 percent of CCRs are several hundred “folks from back home,” they listen. recycled and/or put to beneficial use in the production They also respond to constituents who contact them on of materials such as roof shingles, wallboard, asphalt, subjects of concern. concrete and bricks. By supporting the bill, CCRs would While we urge the U.S. Senate to follow the House’s continue to be treated as non-hazardous materials—in lead by taking up and approving the Coal Residuals direct contrast to the Environmental Protection Agency’s Reuse and Management Act to resolve the regulatory un(EPA) 2010 proposed regulation that would place CCRs certainty associated with this issue, we also ask that you under hazardous waste rules. contact your elected officials in Washington. Let them The debate as to whether CCRs, or coal ash, should know your stance – even when you agree with their pobe declared as hazardous has been researched for nearly sition. It helps them to know they have support at home three decades and the overwhelming conclusion is that when working on the hill to find a balance between the CCRs do not warrant hazardous regulatory treatment. environment and keeping electricity affordable. A

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Electric Issues

Plugged in to Electric Vehicles?

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ince we’ve had automobiles in today’s need for electric and PHEV’s is America, we’ve been discussing that while they may aid in the reduction the pros and cons of electric vehicles. of pollution and our nation’s dependence In fact, long before the Chevrolet Volt on foreign oil sources, they do so at a cost came along, electric cars hit their peak in to the consumer.

America during 1900, as they outsold all Much like their counterparts in the types of cars. early 20th century, electric vehicles and At the time, steam cars had less range PHEVs carry higher price tags than before needing water than an electric comparable conventional gas-fueled vercar’s range on a single charge, and with sions—typically $10,000 to $15,000 more, the majority of roads being concentrated even after fiercely debated federal tax in small areas and towns, it was a perfect incentives ranging from $2,500 to $7,500 situation for electric vehicles since their are included. range was limited. But as our country’s A study by the Cooperative Research roadways became longer and vaster in Network (CRN) compared the gasothe 1920s, the line model 2012 Ford need for longFocus (manufacturer’s At $4 per gallon for gas, the range vehicles suggested retail price average Volt driver would increased, as did $18,300) and the save $1,335 annually--but the price differelectric Chevy Volt would need to accumulate ence between ($31,645 after tax that amount for almost 10 electric and credits) to analyze the years to equal the differgasoline cars savings of a PHEV, ence in sticker price. ($1,750 for an with both vehicles beelectric roadster ing four-door sedans compared to $650 for a gasoline car in roughly the same size.

1912), making electric cars all but disapAccording to the Bureau of Travel pear by 1935.

Statistics, the average American drives Now, almost 100 years later, it seems 40 miles per day. Chevy estimates the we’re still discussing the same issues we average Volt driver will spend $1.50 per had in 1920—can the electric vehicle day for electricity (based on a price of 12 meet our transportation needs for today? cents a kWh) and a small amount of gas.

Each political party seems to have its Meanwhile, the average Focus owner will own philosophy on the role electric and spend almost $5.16 on gasoline daily. At plug-in electric hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) $4 per gallon for gas, the average Volt will play in the auto industry, and contro- driver would save $1,335 annually--but versy, as usual, surrounds both sides. would need to accumulate that amount The hottest political point surrounding for almost 10 years to equal the differ6 JUNE 2012

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ence in sticker price. Of course, actual savings depends on the number of miles driven and car Hourly Demand per PHEV (kW) options. It should be noted that using electric accessories such as air conditioning, heat and defroster will drain electric car batteries faster and impact mileage.

Another cost concern is the electricity needed to power electrics and PHEVs. If recharged with a traditional 120-volt outlet (referred to as Level 1 charging), it takes at least eight hours to charge a Volt and more than 20 hours for the Nissan Leaf, another electric vehicle that came onto the market in December 2010. Consumers can opt for faster, Level 2 charging, which can recharge a battery in three to four hours, but requires a 240-volt charging station which costs between $1,200 and $1,500 and must be installed by a qualified electrician. The power 75% of charging occurs between 4-9 p.m. usage between the Level 1 and Level 2 staElectric Power Research Institute tions is also more dramatic— the Volt’s Level 1 charging at 1.4 kilowatts is roughly equivaduring peak times, PHEV owners could find themlent to the load of a toaster—a toaster running for 8 selves paying rates much higher than the national straight hours; its Level 2 charging, estimated to be average per kilowatt-hour and the electric industry 3.5 kilowatts, is similar to the load of a heating and would have to greatly increase the amount of peakair conditioning system running for three to four ing power plants needed to sustain this new demand. consecutive hours.

With this in mind, utilities and electric cooperatives Also vehicle recharging will place new strains on are investigating ways to control time of use and electrical systems within homes and on the distribu- encourage charging during non-peak times. tion grid. While the Level 1 charging systems use low As politicians debate our country’s dependency amperage, the faster charge of Level 2 systems could on foreign oil, carbon emissions and the use of tax raise technical and cost issues for the homeowner dollars for promoting new technologies and utilities and utility. The concern is about mass-recharging still try to gain a better perspective on what an influx during peak hours, causing higher rates and strains of these vehicles will mean to the way they produce on an already aging electric grid. power— when it comes to electric automobiles and A study by the Idaho National Laboratory found PHEVs, only time will tell if the American public that the greatest recharge time for PHEVs was will once again embrace the electric vehicle sitting in between 7-9 p.m.—corresponding with many utilitheir driveways and the price they’re willing to pay ties’ peak usage times. With electricity costing more for it. A Alabama Living

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Storm Preparedness

Use Portable Electric Generators Safely

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s we enter hurricane season, many of us are reminded of the images and news stories of people rushing to find portable electric generators before or after a storm hits due to their many benefits when a longterm electrical outage occurs. However, if generators are not used properly, the situation could turn deadly.

After Hurricane Katrina, for example, many people relied on generators. But the misuse of them caused five deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Follow these tips to prevent the misuse of portable electrical generators: •

To prevent electric shock, make sure your generator is properly grounded. The operation manual should provide correct grounding procedures.

•

Operate electric generators or other fuel-powered machines outside where deadly carbon monoxide fumes cannot enter the home.

•

Use the generator only in a well-ventilated and dry area located away from air intakes to the house and not in an attached garage.

•

Do not overload the generator by operating more appliances and equipment than the generator can handle. The operating instructions should have an output rating for the generator.

•

Individual appliances should be plugged directly into the receptacle outlet of the generator using appropriately sized extension cords to carry the electric load.

The cords should be rated for outdoor use, have a grounded, three-pronged plug and be in good condition.

•

Never connect generators directly to your home’s wiring. The reverse flow of electricity can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker or pedestrian. Have a qualified electrician install a UL Listed Manual or Automatic Transfer Switch to connect to your home’s wiring.

•

Never plug a generator into a household outlet.

•

Do not refuel a generator while it is running.

As always, be sure to follow manufacturers’ directions for installation and operation, and always keep children and pets away from generators. And when the power does come back on, turn off all the equipment your generator is powering before shutting it down. A

CAEC offices will be closed Wednesday, July 4 for Independence Day

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www.caec.coop

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Spot Light

In June

June 1-14

Berries ripe for picking With more than three acres of blackberries and blueberries, Barber Berry Farm in Millbrook should have plenty of pickings for those who visit June 1-14.

The farm has a variety of fruit trees and vegetables from a hydroponic vegetable garden. It is open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit www.barberberryfarm.com for more information. june 6-july 25

June 1-30

‘Wild Woodsy Wednesdays’ planned

Art show honors Helen Keller

Join the USDA Forest Service and Jacksonville State University Field Schools for a nature and art adventure every Wednesday in June and July at Coleman Lake Recreation Area in Talladega National Forest in the Shoal Creek District.

Hikes, talks, crafts, games and more will take place during the free event. Call 256-782-5697 to learn more.

Helen Keller Art Show of Alabama, an annual exhibition at the Tennessee Valley Museum of Art in Tuscumbia, features juried competition of works of art by Alabama children who are visually impaired, blind or deaf-blind. The exhibition tours state museums and agency galleries from February through June, arriving finally at the Tennessee Valley Museum of Art, which is mere yards away from the birthplace of Helen Keller. The event is sponsored by UAB School of Education, Program for Visual Impairments, School of Optometry Vision Science Research Education and Outreach Module, and the Council for Exceptional Children Division of Visual Impairments. Admission is charged. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, and from 1 to 3 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, call 256-383-0533.

June 8 and 9

Bluegrass festival set for June 8 and 9 Love bluegrass music? Then visit the Whites Mountain Bluegrass Festival in St. Clair Springs on Friday, June 8, from 6 to 10 p.m., and Saturday, June 9, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. There will be bands, jammin’, camping and homecooked food available. Admission is charged. Visit www. whitesmtnbluegrass.com or call 205-467-6927 for more details.

For more Alabama Events, visit page 29.

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Power Pack

Smartphone apps to prep for hurricanes With the onset of hurricane season, it’s best to prepare now for a possible storm. FEMA has many resources on the website www. ready.gov, including safety checklists for the home and business, resources for children to prepare an emergency kit, and ways to support community preparedness. Many smartphone applications are also available to alert users of disaster planning and severe weather patterns. Below are some recommended apps: Alabama SAF-T-Net, an Alabama-based weather technology application, is available to all residents at no cost.

It is a fully automated weather alerting system that uses a combination of phone, email and text messaging to notify users ahead of a storm. Direct sign-up is available at www. alabamasaftnet.com. iHurricane HD covers hurricanes all over the world with video updates. (iPhone, iPad) Hurricane Hound shows the tracks and forecasts of active hurricanes. It also shows NWS forecast information as well as public advisories, forecasts, and satellite imagery.

(Android) FEMA has a free app that covers preparedness information for hurricanes and other disasters. It features an interactive checklist for emergency kits, a section on planning emergency meeting locations, as well as a map with FEMA Disaster Recovery Center locations and shelters. There is also a section on how the public can get involved before and after a disaster. You can also text PREPARE to 43362 (4FEMA) for monthly preparedness tips.

The Weather Channel hosts a free application which features updates with detailed weather conditions and forecasts, customizable weather maps, and videos.

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State park spotlight: Cheaha Mountain Cheaha Mountain Resort State Park sits at the highest point in Alabama, 2,407 feet above sea level, with views of the surrounding Talladega National Forest. Its name comes from the Creek Indian designation “Chaha,” meaning high place. The park has a restaurant and hotel rooms, mountainside chalets, camping, and other accommodations.

Visitors can go hiking, swimming, fishing and picnicking.

The state park is located about an hour east of Birmingham at 2141 Bunker Loop, Highway 281, Delta, AL 36258.

For questions, call 256-488-5115 or email cheaha.stateparklodge@dcnr.alabama.gov.

www.alabamaliving.coop

Co-ops press for outage-prevention technology

By Maurice Martin and Brian Sloboda Cooperative Research Network In keeping with their tradition of innovation, electric coops are working hard to introduce new technologies that will increase service reliability, decrease outage time, and improve safety for line crews and the public.

One of the major areas where advancements are taking place involves down-line automation. An umbrella term describing the use of digital meters and equipment, software applications, and two-way communications, down-line automation allows your electric cooperative to effectively monitor the flow of electricity in near real-time; identify voltages out of allowed ranges; pinpoint outages; and transmit signals to transformers, capacitors, circuit breakers, and other devices to initiate diagnostic or corrective actions that can isolate, reroute power around, or even remotely repair the cause of a power interruption.

With down-line automation, co-ops can decrease the number of members who lose power and the duration of an outage as well as reduce “line losses”—electricity that dissipates in the process of distributing it over power lines. This saves your co-op (and you) money by not having to buy electricity that doesn’t get used.

One of the most promising advances in down-line automation, distribution fault analysis (DFA), taps high-resolution monitors installed on electric lines and cutting-edge algorithms to zero in on hard-to-find electric system trouble spots before they morph into full-blown outages. In its purest form, DFA “reads and identifies” specific fault signatures in a waveform— such as a cracked insulator or a tree limb occasionally brushing a line and causing a blink. Instead of learning about an event, like an outage, after it happens, co-ops can fix a potential problem ahead of time.

An electric cooperative in Tennessee has been testing a DFA system designed by Texas A&M University and the Electric Power Research Institute, a Palo Alto, Calif.-based non-profit consortium whose members include co-ops. Other electric cooperatives have signed up to test DFA’s potential through the Cooperative Research Network, an independent research and development service of the Arlington, Va.-based National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Another down-line tool that could go a long way toward improving electric reliability entails using robots to check out the condition of transmission lines. Like DFA, robots seek to prevent outages. But unlike DFA, robots directly inspect cables and other components rather than waveforms. Robots can work on the ground or in the sky, and some even operate while suspended from live power lines.

It may surprise some folks that electric co-ops have emerged as leaders in the down-line automation field. But innovation is a key part our cooperative DNA. It embodies the same spirit that drove rural residents to find ways to overcome seemingly insurmountable technical, engineering, legal, political, and financial hurdles and bring central station electric service to all corners of America.

Our not-for-profit, consumer-oriented business structure ensures all decisions—technology-based or otherwise—focus on our core mission: providing members with a safe, reliable, and affordable supply of power.

Follow Alabama Living contributor David Haynes as he travels down the Alabama Scenic River Trail through this month at www.paddlinginfo.ua.edu.

Haynes, along with his two golden retrievers, is paddling from where the Coosa River enters the Alabama River down to Fort Morgan at the mouth of Mobile Bay.

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Storm Season

Although tornadoes have been on the minds of Alabamians recently, hurricanes can cause widespread devastation Special to Alabama Living

from the Alabama Emergency Management Agency

A Baldwin County road, following Hurricane Ivan

W 2012 Hurricane Names

ithout a doubt April 27, 2011, changed Alabama forever. After that date, when you mention Alabama, it is now synonymous with the possibility of deadly tornadoes, deadly straight-line winds and dangerous hail. More than a year later, people are still focusing on disaster preparedness to a degree not seen in recent years as a result of the lessons learned from that day.

Alberto, Beryl, Chris, Debby, Ernesto, Florence, Gordon, Helene, Isaac, Joyce, Kirk, Leslie, Michael, Nadine, Oscar, Patty, Rafael, Sandy, Tony, Valerie, William

But, as soon as one natural hazard or threat passes another approaches. June 1 marked the first day of the 2012 hurricane season. The peak months are August and September.

The Definition

The Alabama Emergency Management Agency knows the importance of being prepared

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for hurricane season, and we are encouraging Alabama residents to do the same. The dangers associated with a hurricane can be deadly. It is important to note the severe weather potential from a hurricane reaches much farther than Baldwin and Mobile counties on the coast, and can produce weather similar to any tornado-related event.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides a vivid explanation of a hurricane. It is a tropical weather system with winds that have reached a sustained speed of 74

www.alabamaliving.coop

mph or more. Hurricane winds blow in a large spiral around a relatively calm center, known as the “eye.” The eye is generally 20-30 miles wide, and the storm may extend outward from the eye for 400 miles.

Hurricanes wield incredible power. As they near land, they can bring torrential rains, high winds, floods, flash floods and spawn tornadoes. Even more dangerous is the storm surge – a dome of water that, at its peak, can be 20 feet high and 50-100 miles wide. Surges can devastate coastal communities. A single hurricane can last more than two weeks over open waters and can run along the entire length of several coastal states. The 74160 mph winds can extend inland for hundreds of miles. Hurricanes are classified by five categories according to wind velocity.

Category 1 is the mildest and Category 5 is the strongest.

Hurricane forecasters predict 10 named hurricanes this year, two of which reach Category 3 or more in strength.

The Danger

Storm surge is a danger you may not be familiar with. According to the National Hurricane Center, storm surge is often the greatest threat to life and property from a hurricane. In the past, large Long-term power outages The History death tolls have resulted often follow hurricanes The most significant hurricane in recent hisfrom the rise of the ocean associated with many of tory was in 2004 when Hurricane Ivan came the major hurricanes that have made landfall. ashore, and then again in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina (2005) is a prime Contact Hurricane Katrina devastated New example of the damage and devastathe Emergency Orleans, parts of Mississippi and the tion that can be caused by surge. At Management Agency coast of Alabama. More recently least 1,500 persons lost their lives Baldwin and Mobile were eligible during Katrina and many of those If a hurricane is predicted for for public assistance from FEMA deaths occurred directly, or indiAlabama, the Alabama EMA will be in 2009, resulting from Tropical rectly, as a result of storm surge. providing emergency information for Storm Ida. Storm surge is an abnormal rise residents. There are several ways to Looking back at Hurricane of water generated by a storm, receive the news releases or pertinent Ivan in 2004, counties as far over and above the predicted north as Jackson and Colbert astronomical tides. information, follow the Alabama EMA received both individual and Storm surge should not be on Twitter and/or Facebook. Visit us public assistance from the Federal confused with storm tide, which at www.ema.alabama.gov. Also on Emergency Management Agency. is defined as the water level rise this site you can find the contact The severe weather impacting most due to the combination of storm information for your local of the state came from a hurricane surge and the astronomical tide. This EMA office. that originated in the Gulf of Mexico. rise in water level can cause extreme Prior to the April 2011 storms, Hurricane flooding in coastal areas particularly when Ivan was Alabama’s most significant disaster in storm surge coincides with normal high tide, recent history. resulting in storm tides reaching up to 20 feet or more in some cases.

Paths of hurricanes affecting Alabama, 1990-2009

How You Can Prepare

Now that you know the seriousness of a hurricane, preparedness before a disaster is essential to protect you and your family.

Here are tips to consider before a hurricane impacts your area: Learn the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood-prone. This will help you know how your property will be affected when storm surge or tidal flooding are forecasted.

Learn community hurricane evacuation routes and how to find higher ground.

Cover all of your home’s windows. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8” marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.

Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. This will reduce roof damage.

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JUNE 2012 13

Reinforce your garage doors; if wind enters a garage it can cause dangerous and expensive structural damage.

Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.

Following a Hurricane

Continue listening to a NOAA Weather Radio or the local news for the latest updates.

Stay alert for extended Power restoration can be rainfall and subsequent complicated – and dangerous flooding even after the hurricane or tropical storm has ended.

If you have become separated from your family, contact FEMA or the American Red Cross.

If you evacuated, return home only when officials say it is safe.

Drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads and washedout bridges. Stay off the streets. If you must go out watch for fallen objects, downed electrical wires, and weakened walls, bridges, roads, and sidewalks. A

Build an Emergency Kit Water: one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.

Food: at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food.

Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.

Flashlight and extra batteries.

First aid kit and medicine.

Manual can opener for food.

Local maps.

Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger. A

Orange Beach, after Hurricane Ivan

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Alabama Living

JUNE 2012  15

Col. Dewey L. Smith Fighter pilot, two-time Silver Star recipient, prisoner of war, and American hero

“The North Vietnamese took control of Smith, stripped him of his possessions and began marching him to the infamous ‘Hanoi Hilton’ prison camp.”

By Ben Norman

16 june 2012

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R

ed lights blinked and alarms sounded as fire spread throughout the cockpit of Maj. Dewey Smith’s spinning F-105 fighter jet, which had just been hit by a surface to air missile. With a split second to spare, Smith pulled the ejection lever and was catapulted into a blue sky just northeast of Hanoi, North Vietnam.

He began a parachute descent on June 2, 1967, that can only be described as a descent into a living hell.

The parachute canopy hung in a tree, leaving Smith dangling just a few feet off the ground. “I just hung there for several minutes and then the parachute began to slowly slip from the limbs it was hung up on,” he remembers. “I actually had a soft landing, but that was about the only soft thing I experienced for the next 5 and a half years.”

Smith had just hit the ground when a group of North Vietnamese civilians descended upon him. One villager had a machete, and had drawn back to decapitate Smith, when a North Vietnamese soldier arrived and stopped the attack. The North Vietnamese took control of Smith, stripped him of his possessions and began marching him to the infamous “Hanoi Hilton” prison camp. Along the way the villagers were allowed to punch, kick and hit Smith with any object they had in hand.

Upon arrival at the prison camp, Smith was incarcerated in a small cell and manacled to the floor. Here he was beaten daily, hung from the ceiling with ropes, and subjected to a favored rope torture where a victim’s arms are pulled so tightly behind him that they become dislocated.

“There must have been at least 30 soldiers trying to get information from me, but I wouldn’t give them any information and that made them mad,” Smith says. “They considered me someone that had valuable information and they didn’t want to give up trying to get information from me.”

Interrogation and torture continued daily in the prison camp.

Smith was put in a cell with two other prisoners for a short while, but was later placed in solitary confinement and was beaten and tortured daily. He says it was a major task just to keep from going crazy.

“We had a tap code that we communicated with. I passed time counting flies, watching rats, and a whole lot of daydreaming.

I thought of my boyhood, family and friends I wanted to see.”

Food was just enough to live on. Smith says he lived on stewed cabbage and pumpkin with almost no meat. “I still will not eat cabbage and pumpkin to this day,” he says. “The food was terrible and sanitation was basically non-existent. Combine terrible food with being alone and daily torture – it was about more than anyone could stand.”

After spending 2,103 days in captivity, Smith was released during Operation Homecoming on March 4, 1973, and flown to the Philippines, then on to Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland, where he was hospitalized for observation and to gain some strength back. Smith continued his Air Force career and eventually was stationed in Montgomery, where he met and married an Alabama girl, Elaine Hall from Glenwood. Smith was promoted to full colonel and retired.

Dewey, who turned 83 on Nov. 11, Veterans Day, and Elaine now divide their time between their homes in Fairdale, Ky., and Glenwood, where they are members of South Alabama Electric Cooperative.

Age and health problems have slowed Col. Dewey Smith down a bit, but he remains fiercely patriotic. Those who know him well, know that if asked, he would not hesitate to climb into the cockpit of another F-105 and head into the wild blue yonder to engage any enemy of his beloved United States of America. A

Don’t forget to display your patriotic colors on Flag Day, June 14.

Alabama Living

JUNE 2012 17

Power Plants

Water Works There are several ways to make watering your lawn and garden easier and less expensive

By Katie Jackson

Garden Tips: June t Sow seeds for beans, field peas, pumpkins, squash, corn, cantaloupes and watermelon. t Plant transplants of tomatoes, peppers, eggplants and sweet potatoes. t Pinch off dead flowers from flowering annuals to encourage continued blooming. t Remove foliage from spring bulbs if it becomes yellow and dry. t Keep an eye out for insect and disease problems in all garden areas and on houseplants. t Add fresh water to birdbaths and ornamental pools frequently to reduce mosquito breeding. t Watch for and control black spot and powdery mildew on roses. t Plant mums now for fall bloom and pinch back established mums to encourage fall flowering and to keep them compact. t Keep up spray programs on fruit trees and grape or muscadine vines. t Thin apples and peaches if needed. A Katie Jackson is associate editor for the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station. Contact her at csmith@acesag.auburn.edu

18 JUNE 2012

A

s summer arrives so does watering season, but there are ways to cut back on the use of time, money and moisture that summer irrigation usually requires.

The very best way to reduce the need for watering is to develop a water-efficient landscape, which can be done by improving the quality (and, thus, water-holding capacity) of soil, choosing plants that need little or at least less water and finding ways to make landscapes and lawns more water efficient.

Certainly these and other modifications of our landscapes, such as installing rain barrels, can be part of a long-range water efficiency plan.

However, there are ways to more immediately improve your water use quotient that require less time and money.

Among these is simply making sure to water plants, not the air or the sidewalk. Don’t run a sprinkler or hose so long or so fast that water runs off the lawn or garden, and don’t allow the spray of water from a sprinkler to go so high that much is lost to evaporation before it ever touches a plant or so wide that it’s watering pavement or roadways.

For garden beds and non-lawn areas, drip irrigation systems are wonderful options because water is applied directly on or into the soil and, thus, close to plant roots. While a buried drip irrigation hose is ideal, perforated hoses that can be laid on the soil surface beneath plants and moved around to various parts of the garden are great alternatives.

Remember, too, that it is best to apply water early in the morning,

not during the heat of the day, and to water deeply but less frequently so that water reaches down into the soil to plant roots.

Also, rather than watering on a set schedule, let the plants say when they are thirsty. The best time to apply water is just as plants begin to wilt or as blades of lawn grass begin to fold in on themselves.

More information than you can soak up? A great source of information on this topic and many others is the Alabama Smart Yards publication, a comprehensive and, in my opinion, a must-have resource developed through the Alabama Cooperative Extension System to help home gardeners practice “environmental consciousness and practical management options” (as its subtitle states). It is available online at www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR1359/ANR-1359.pdf and through local Extension offices.

While there’s little chance that any of us will avoid watering altogether this summer, spending a little time researching water-saving ideas is well worth the effort really can help save water, time and money. A www.alabamaliving.coop

Alabama Living

JUNE 2012  19

The Alabama Bass Trail Lakes Guntersville, Wheeler, Wilson and Pickwick – Four Tennessee River lakes could hold record bass

For more information on the Alabama Bass Trail, see www.alabamabasstrail.org.

By John N. Felsher

T

he largest tributary of the Ohio River, the Tennessee River, runs 652 miles, cutting across most of northern Alabama. Along the way, it creates several lakes that offer anglers some of the best bass fishing in the nation.

Lake Guntersville

Topping the list, Lake Guntersville stretches 75 miles along the river channel from Tennessee to Guntersville Dam in Marshall County. The largest lake in Alabama covers about 69,100 acres.

In the northern portion, the lake retains much of its riverine characteristics while the lower lake more resembles a typical southern reservoir with large creeks feeding vast grassy flats.

“Without a doubt, Lake Guntersville is one of the premier bass lakes in the nation,” says Mike Iaconelli, the 2003 Bassmaster Classic champion who won a major tournament there in 2006.

“It’s an amazing numbers lake, but can also produce giant bass. I caught one 10-pounder in that lake, but I caught bunches in the 6- to 8-pound range.”

The lake produces many largemouth bass in the 3- to 8-pound range and some monsters. On Feb. 21, 1990, Charlie Bertus of Huntsville, caught a 14.5-pound largemouth in the Murphy Hill area near mid-lake. The lake also holds big smallmouth and Kentucky spotted bass. Duanne McQueen of Stockbridge, Ga., landed the lake record smallmouth, a 5.85-pounder, in November 2010.

Many people fish the matted grass for big bass. For fishing thick grass, few lures work better than a buzzing frog. Rigged Texas style, these plastic temptations can easily slip over the thickest mats. Work them with a steady retrieve or a pop-andstop method.

“Guntersville is such a great lake because it has so much grass,” Iaconelli says. “With so many vast grass flats, much of the lake looks the same. I look for ditches. Water depth doesn’t really matter as much as depth change. It doesn’t even have to be a radical drop. Just a drop of a foot or two might make a difference.”

20 JUNE 2012

Lake Wheeler

Downstream, the Tennessee River flows into Lake Wheeler, the second largest lake in Alabama. The lake totals 67,100 acres and runs for 60 miles. The upper end of the reservoir remains more riverine with many rocks and shoals. The lower end contains more deep water, weed beds, stumps, flooded brush, rock piles, steep banks, channel drops and points.

“Wheeler Lake fishes a lot like Guntersville, but doesn’t have as much grass,” says Chris Jackson, a guide and professional bass fisherman (205-704-2425, or chrisjacksonfishing.com). “The Decatur flats area is full of creek channels and stumps. Once an angler learns how to fish it, it’s a gold mine. It’s a great place for numbers, but also has some big bass, including some 5- and 6-pound smallmouth. It produces a lot of 6- to 8-pound largemouth and some 10-pounders.”

Wilson Lake

Although not one of the 11 lakes and rivers in the Alabama Bass Trail, Wilson Lake, just below Wheeler, produces many 4- to 6-pound smallies and some good largemouth bass. Wilson once held the world record for smallmouth, and still holds the Alabama state record with a 10.5-pounder caught

www.alabamaliving.coop

On March 8, Gov. Robert Bentley announced the Alabama Bass Trail to promote 11 of the best fishing waters in the state. This is the first of a four-part series focusing on those lakes and rivers. waters, smallies like deeper water, more current and rocky bottoms. Therefore, the best smallmouth fishing on Pickwick generally occurs near the Wilson Dam. Here, the river flows through several channels and around numerous rocky shoals, islands, sandbars and other obstructions.

“It’s not uncommon to fish a point and catch a largemouth, a smallmouth and a spotted bass on three casts with the same lure,” Stegall says. “The Wilson Dam area has a lot of current breaks like rocks, logs and stumps. Fish will be near those current breaks. One of the simplest ways to catch smallmouth: Throw a smoke or chartreuse grub on a leadhead jig upstream. Let it go to the bottom. Hold the rod up, reel the bait about five or six cranks and let it fall back.”

These four lakes on the Tennessee River offer anglers nearly 200,000 acres to fish for many species. On any of these lakes, anglers could possibly set a state or even a world record in several species categories. A Professional Craig Powers fishes Lake Wheeler near Decatur

Texas-style rig works well in Lake Guntersville’s weedy areas

in the Wheeler Dam tailrace. The smallest impoundment on the Tennessee River, Wilson Lake runs 15 miles and covers 15,930 acres.

Pickwick Lake

Downstream from the Wilson Dam, Pickwick stretches across 47,500 acres and runs 53 river miles from Florence, to Counce, Tenn. Many people think Pickwick Lake could hold the next world-record smallmouth bass. The lake already produced smallmouth exceeding 10 pounds and some double-digit largemouths.

“Pickwick is a dynamite lake for big smallmouth,” says Roger Stegall, (662-423-3869, or www.Fishpickwick.com) a professional bass angler and Pickwick guide. “I’ve heard of some 10-pound smallmouth. I’ve caught some 8-pounders. Recently, the lake produced a lot of largemouth in the 9- to 11-pound range.”

While largemouth prefer weedy or woody cover in slack backAlabama Living

JUNE 2012 21

Worth the Drive Alabama Blueberry Festival Brewton June 16, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Burnt Corn Creek Park, downtown Brewton, AL www.alabamablueberryfestival.com

Alabama Blues The Alabama Blueberry Festival in Brewton offers plenty to eat – and lots to do

By Jennifer Kornegay

Go Get ’Em! Get your fill at U-pick berry farms Eating local produce is good for you (tastes better, costs less), and is good for our local economies. If you can’t make the Blueberry Festival, set aside a Saturday this summer to visit a U-pick berry farm around the state. We’ve listed a few below, but remember to check the farm’s website or call before you go to make sure their hours haven’t changed and that their fields aren’t picked clean (it happens!).

• The Straw Bale House Blueberry Farm, Mentone, 256-634-4150 • E&T Berry Farm, Albertville, 256-7388715, www.etberryfarm.com • Holmstead Farm, Talladega, 256-4044316, www.holmesteadfarm.com • Spradlin Farm, Vinemont, 256-7346419, www.spradlinfarm.com • Maple Manor Farm, Pell City, 205-3381462 • Barber Berry Farm, Millbrook, (334) 549-4710, www.barberberryfarm.com • Brannan Blueberry Brae, Mobile, 251327-6503, www.brannanblueberrybrae.shutterfly.com While you’re at a farm, don’t just purchase what you’ll eat right now. Go ahead and buy more. Blueberries freeze beautifully, if you do it right.

Make sure the berries are clean and dry and lay them in a single layer on a sheet pan. They can touch on the sides a bit but should not be jumbled up on top of each other. Place the pan in the freezer and freeze the berries solid (several hours).

Then package the individually frozen berries in freezer-safe zip-top bags. Defrost as needed all fall and winter long to add summer’s sweetness to cereal, pancakes, muffins, pies or whatever you like. A

22 JUNE 2012

B

lueberry ice cream, blueberry pie, blueberry cobbler, blueberry jelly, blueberry bread pudding. The ways to enjoy the sweet-tart pop of flavor packed into this tiny indigo fruit are many and varied, and there’s no better place to taste at least three or four of them than at the Alabama Blueberry Festival in Brewton this month.

Now in its 32nd year, this food fest has grown to bring anywhere from 8,000 to 10,000 blueberry fans to Brewton for the one-day event. Judy Crane, executive director of the Brewton Chamber of Commerce and director of the festival, has been involved with the fruit-filled event for 22 years.

“It’s a popular event,” she says. “We’re in a great setting in a pretty park, and Brewton is in a good location. It’s on the way to the beach, and lots of people stop in for the festival on their way to vacation. Plus, the blueberries are delicious.”

The festival was started three decades ago to promote the blueberry farms dotting the region, so of course, all of the blueberries and blueberry products found at the festival come from Brewton and surrounding areas. The Blueberry Growers Association brings in bushels and bushels of their crop. You can buy berries by the pint, by the crate or by the flat, just picked and at the peak of their freshness. They’re undeniably tastier than those shipped into your local mega mart. And, they’re cheaper too. Or if you’d like to grow your own, you can buy a few blueberry bushes and anxiously anticipate picking blueberries in your own backyard next summer.

A few years ago, the Blueberry Festival changed venues to take advantage of the beauty and convenient, central location of charming downtown Brewton. “We’re in the Burnt Corn Creek Park in the shade, and it has proven to be a great move,” Crane says.

In addition to all of the blueberry business going on, there’s an arts & crafts show, an antique car show, live musical entertainment and a kids section with waterslides, inflatables, a petting zoo, pony rides and more – all for free.

“We have some lovely arts and crafts

for sale,” Crane says. “They are all original works, things made by artists or craftsmen.

And we’ve got some great local acts that will be playing from the stage all day.” It’s also free to park, and if you have to park farther away than you’d like to walk, hop onboard the also-free shuttle to and from the park.

Food vendors will be hawking their blueberry creations: blueberry ice cream (Crane’s favorite festival treat), blueberry cobbler and blueberry bread pudding. If you need some inspiration once you’re home with the blueberries you buy at the event, reference the Alabama Blueberry Festival Cookbook and find recipes making delicious use of the berries, as well as other regional dishes.

The Alabama Blueberry Festival is a leisurely event with families meandering under the trees and around the booths. Streets around the park are closed, making it safer for little ones. And there’s more than the tempting scent of ripe blueberries floating through the air; Brewton’s celebrated hospitality is in no short supply during the festival, according to Crane.

“Brewton has been voted one of the Best 100 Small Towns in America by Money Magazine several times,” she says. “I think it is because we are a small town, but we’re not closed off or kept to ourselves. We’re really welcoming and friendly.” A

Jennifer Kornegay www.alabamaliving.coop

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JUNE 2012 23

Consumer Wise

Electric Yard Tools The four basic types of batteries used in rechargeable tools are lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, nickel metal-hydride, and lithium-ion

This 36-volt lawn mower has a removable battery, cuts a 19-inch path and weighs 72 pounds

James Dulley is a nationally syndicated engineering consultant based in Cincinnati.

24 JUNE 2012

Q

: I want to use cordless and electric tools, especially yard tools and a lawn mower, instead of gasoline ones. Will using them increase my electric bills much, and which rechargeable batteries are best?

A

: Using electric or cordless tools make more sense than using gasoline-powered ones for many reasons. Obviously, the United States has to import huge amounts of oil to make gasoline.

Anything a homeowner can do to use less gasoline is good. If you have access to an electric outlet, plug-in tools offer lighter weight and more power than cordless ones.

Electric or cordless tools also cost much less to use than gasoline tools.

For example, a cordless lawn mower can cut a one-third acre lot for about 10 cents’ worth of electricity to charge the battery – usually an overnight charge at a rate of 45 to 90 watts, depending upon the battery voltage.

Also, there are no maintenance costs associated with a cordless or electric tool.

There are differences in the life, weight, cost and effectiveness of various types of rechargeable batteries for cordless tools. The four basic types of batteries used are lead-acid, nickelcadmium, nickel metal-hydride, and lithium-ion.

Lead-acid batteries are used in cordless lawn mowers because they can store the most charge. Leadacid batteries are also relatively inexpensive for the amount of power they can store. Their drawback is heavy weight. In a tool such as a lawn mower that rests on wheels, this is not a major problem. For hand-held yard tools, having a lead-acid battery hanging on the handle could wear out your arm quickly.

Ni-Cd (nickel-cadmium) batteries

were used on the earliest cordless tools and most tools still use them.

They are relatively inexpensive, and they maintain their performance at cooler temperatures ­– an important feature for tools used outdoors. NiCd batteries are relatively heavy, so they are not often used on the highest voltage cordless tools.

Ni-Mh (nickel metal-hydride) was the next generation of rechargeable batteries. These batteries can store more electricity for the weight. They are more expensive to make than NiCds so they are used on fewer cordless tools. They are ideal for indoor use but tend to lose runtime in colder outdoor temperatures. Also, their life (run/recharge cycle) is less than for Ni-Cd batteries.

Li-ion (lithium-ion) batteries are the newest type. These are the most expensive but also are the lightest for the power they can store. Li-ion batteries operate very well at cold temperatures, so they are effective for outdoor use. Some take longer to charge than Ni-Cd or Ni-Mh batteries, so they may not be the best choice if you are constantly running them down and trying to recharge them quickly. Having a second battery pack on the charger is a good idea.

Don’t necessarily look for the highest voltage tool with the most power. No matter what type of battery a tool uses, higher voltage means more battery weight. If you primarily do light shrub trimming or drill small holes in soft wood, lower-voltage is your best choice. A

Send your questions to: James Dulley Alabama Living 6906 Royalgreen Dr. Cincinnati, OH 45244

You can also reach Dulley online at

www.dulley.com

www.alabamaliving.coop

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

JUN. 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25

26

27 28 29 30

- - 12:52 01:22 01:52 02:37 03:22 04:22 10:37 - - - - 01:07 01:52 02:52

05:07 05:37 06:07 06:52 07:22 08:07 09:07 05:22 06:37 07:52 08:52 09:52 10:37

07:52 12:22 08:22 01:07 08:52 01:37 09:22 02:07 09:52 02:37 10:22 03:22 11:07 03:52 04:37 11:37 12:37 12:22 06:52 02:52 08:22 04:22 09:52 05:22 10:52 06:22

JUL. 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

03:52 - - - - 01:22 02:07 02:52 03:37 09:37 10:52 - - - - - - 01:22 02:22 03:22 04:07 - - - - 01:07 01:37 02:22 03:07 09:22 10:52 - - - - - - 01:22 02:37 03:37 - -

11:22 4:37 05:37 06:22 07:07 07:52 08:37 04:37 05:37 06:37 07:52 08:52 09:37 10:22 11:07 11:37 04:52 05:37 06:07 06:52 07:37 08:22 03:52 04:52 05:52 07:22 08:37 09:37 10:37 11:22 04:37

11:52 07:07 7:37 12:07 08:22 12:52 08:52 01:37 09:22 02:07 09:22 02:52 10:22 03:22 10:52 03:52 04:22 11:22 12:52 11:52 - - 12:37 07:37 05:37 09:37 05:52 10:37 06:22 11:22 06:37 11:52 07:07 07:22 12:07 07:52 12:37 08:22 01:22 08:37 01:52 09:07 02:22 09:37 02:52 03:22 10:07 04:07 10:37 12:37 11:22 03:22 12:07 08:22 04:52 09:52 05:37 10:52 06:07 11:37 06:37 07:07 12:07

Alabama Living

JUNE 2012  25

Alabama Recipes

Seafood Cook of the Month: Tracy Welch, Joe Wheeler EMC Parmesan Crusted Tilapia 1-½ pound tilapia fillets, or other white fish like cod or trout 3 tablespoons mayonnaise 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon lemon pepper 1 cup Panko bread crumbs ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated ¼ cup butter, softened

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line a large baking pan with foil; spray with cooking spray. Place all fish fillets on the pan and pat dry with a clean paper towel. In a small bowl, stir mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, kitchen salt and lemon pepper until blended. Spread over top of each fillet. In another small bowl, mix bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese and softened butter together until well blended. Spread evenly over the mayonnaise mixture on each fillet; pat crumb mixture lightly into the mayonnaise. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until fish flakes easily with fork and top is golden brown.

Shrimp Salad 16 ounces pasta shells of choice (boiled & drained) 2 pounds boiled shrimp peeled & deveined ½ cup celery finely chopped

4 tablespoons mayonnaise ¼ cup sweet pickle relish 1 tablespoon Cayenne Pepper ¼ C. green onions finely chopped 1tsp. black pepper

Boil pasta until tender, drain. Boil shrimp for 5 minutes, drain. In a large bowl mix all ingredients and add salt to preferred taste. Chill for about 1 hour before serving.

Besides relaxing in a beach chair, reading a good book and soaking up some good old-fashioned sunshine, my favorite thing about spending time near the beach is eating local seafood. There is something magical about preparing food which was caught just hours before. I love to try new dishes, but somehow I’m always drawn to the fried shrimp. If you can’t get away to the beach, just venture to your local market and you will be able to find fresh items to prepare as well. Happy cooking.

Demaris S. Anders, Joe Wheeler EMC

You could win $50!

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

August September October

Upcoming recipe themes and deadlines are: Budget Friendly Deadline: June 15 Microwave Meals Deadline: July 15 Tailgating Deadline: August 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 electric cooperative.

26 JUNE 2012

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.

Seafood Lasagna

8 lasagna noodles 1 cup chopped onion 2 tablespoons butter 8 ounces softened cream cheese 1-1/2 cups cottage cheese 1 beaten egg 2 teaspoons basil 2 cans cream of mushroom soup

11/2 pounds shelled and cooked shrimp 8-10 ounces cooked and flaked crab meat 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup milk Salt and pepper to taste

Cook noodles according to package directions and arrange half in the bottom of a greased 13 x 9 baking dish. Cook onion in butter until tender. Blend in cream cheese, cottage cheese, egg, basil, salt and pepper to taste.

Spread half on top of noodles. Cover with remaining 4 noodles. Combine separately soup, milk, shrimp and crab.

Spread half over casserole. Repeat layers and sprinkle with Parmesan last. Bake uncovered 45 minutes at 350 degrees. Top with cheddar cheese and bake an additional two minutes. Let stand 15 minutes before cutting. Makes 12 servings.

Janie Whelton, Baldwin EMC.

Nikki’s Shrimp Chowder 1-2 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 pint half and half 1 stick butter 1 bunch green onions, chopped 2 cans cream of potato soup

1 8-ounce can shoepeg corn 1 can Rotel 1/2 pound sliced mushrooms (optional) 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature) Tony’s Creole Seasoning

In a Dutch oven, saute onions, mushrooms, and shrimp in butter over medium heat. Stir in softened cream cheese. Add soup and corn, mixing well. Add half and half and Rotel. Season with Tony’s Creole seasoning to taste (start with 1 tablespoon then add to your taste).

Donna Turner, Pea River EC

Want to see the Cook of the Month recipe before the magazine gets to your door?

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Alabama Living

JUNE 2012 27

Crab Cakes

1 pound lump crabmeat â „3 cup crushed crackers 2 green onions, finely chopped 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped 1 carrot, finely chopped 1/4 cup mayonaise 1 egg 1

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon dry mustard Juice of 1 lemon 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder Dash cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon seasoned salt Flour for dusting 1/2 cup olive oil

Mix all ingredients (except for flour and oil) in a large bowl.

Shape into round patties and dust with flour to help keep them together. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat.

When oil is hot, carefully place crab cakes in pan, 3-4 at a time. Fry on one side, about 4-5 minutes, until browned.

Carefully turn crab cakes and fry on other side until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Serve with cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or shrimp sauce.

Kirk Vantrease, Cullman EC

28  JUNE 2012

www.alabamaliving.coop

Around Alabama June 29 - 30

Guntersville • Alabama Songwriters Festival

from their latest production, “Lovein’ the 60’s”. Friday night, Crossfire will entertain the crowd with a free concert. Saturday evening Nash Street will open a free concert for Taylor Hicks, Alabama’s own American Idol winner. Children’s activities will include face painting and a “Make and Take” tent. Sand Mountain Cruisers and the Arab Classic Cars Club will host a classic car show at Town Harbor on Friday and Saturday. On the pier, Vintage Boats, from days gone by, will be docked for all to admire. The Harbor grounds will be filled with food and beverage vendors as well as, art and merchandise vendors.

Call 256-571-7199, visit www.mountainvalleyartscouncil.com or e-mail artscouncil@mindspring.com.

The Alabama Songwriters Competition will hold its 11th competition of the Alabama Songwriters Festival (ASF). The Festival will present live music, storytelling, and excerpts from the local community theater. An arts exhibit celebrating Alabama’s “Year of Food” and music from the Mountain Echo Dulcimer Players will be held at the Mountain Valley Arts Council Gallery.

Saturday’s songwriters competition at Town Hall will include three genres; inspirational, country/bluegrass and contemporary/pop. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place in each genre. At City Harbor, an appearance by Tom Sawyer and other storytellers will capture the imagination of the young and old.

Talented theatrical performers from our local community theater will amuse the audience with excerpts Tuesday Nights in June and July • Gulf

Shores, Civil War Evening Tours (excluding July 3rd.)

Fort Morgan State Historic Site, 51 State Highway 180 - 7-8 p.m.

Admission: Small Charge Contact: 251-540-7127 or e-mail programs@fortmorgan.org

Wednesdays in June and July •

Theodore, Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road.

Admission: Adults $12, Children 5 -12 $6.50 and Children 4 and under are free.

Contact 251.973.2217 extension 111 for reservations.

June

1 &2 • Guntersville, Kenneth Perice Memorial

Extreme Bulls & Barrells Evesham Farm 4056 Fry Gap Road Between Guntersville & Arab 7:30pm Gates open at 6:30pm both nights

Adults - $10 - under 5 free Proceeds go to the American Cancer Society.

Contact JR Rudeseal at 256-457-8692 chrissyanncamacho@yahoo.com 8 & 9 • St. Clair Springs, White’s Mountain Bluegrass Festival. Camping available.

Friday, 6 -10 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Admission: $10 Fri., $15 Sat. $20 for both days Contact 205-467-6927, e-mail whitesmtnbluegrass@windstream.net or visit www.whitesmtnbluegrass.com 8 & 9 • Marion, 17th Annual Marion Rodeo at the Marion Arena on Highway 14. Gates open at 6 p.m. , Mutton Bustin’ at 6:30, Little Wranglers at 7:15, and rodeo starts at 7:30. Adults $10, Children 6-12 $5, under five, free. Proceeds donated to Perry County Fire Assn. Crisis Fund. Contact: 334-683-4004 and leave message.

14 • Huntsville, Indian Artifact show Sponsored by Hillabee Archaeological Society. This is a free to the public show with collectors from all over the state of Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia and Mississippi displaying and selling artifacts.

Contact David Weinstein at 256-534-7384 busheyd@bellsouth.net 21 • Andalusia, Paul Finebaum, At the Andalusia Kiwanis Center. The evening begins at 5:45 p.m. with a social hour and silent auction. A surf ‘n’ turf dinner will be served and Paul Finebaum will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Individual Tickets are $50.00. Sponsorship opportunities are available. All proceeds from this event will support the scholarships and programs

To place an event, 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. 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.

of the LBWCC Foundation. Please call 334-8812306 for tickets or additional information.

23 • Andalusia, South Alabama Amateur Radio Club Field Day. Twenty-fourhour event, contacting other Ham radio enthusiasts across the country. Sweet Home Alabama Campground & RV Park. www.shacrvpark.com

July 1 – 5 • Birmingham, 5

Days of Prayer for Our Nation, at Caritas FREE event, no registration required Contact: 205-672-2000 or visit www.mej.com 3 • Chatom, 4th of July Celebration Chatom Community Center 5 p.m. All activities are free. Fireworks start at 9 p.m. Parking - $1 per vehicle Bring your lawn chairs. There will be food and arts and craft booths.

Contact Fran Thornton at (251) 680-3075, e-mail thorntonfran@yahoo.com or visit www.chatom.org

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June 2012 29

5/17/12 8:09 AM

Market Place Miscellaneous NEW AND USED STAIR LIFT ELEVATORS – Car lifts, Scooters, Power Wheelchairs, Walk-in Tubs – Covers State of Alabama – 23 years (800)682-0658 HELP A CHILD WEATHER THE STORM BY GIVING THEM A RAY OF HOPE! We are looking for people who have the heart and patience to show a child that life can be different and better. HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN A CHILD’S LIFE TODAY BECOME A THERAPEUTIC FOSTER PARENT. CALL FOR MORE INFO (334) 793-0090, 1-877-8328624 - United Methodist Children’s Home (www.umch.net) 18X21 CARPORT $695 INSTALLED – (706)383-8554 LIVING ESTATE – ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES cross cut saws to middlebusters – (256)566-3092 INTERIOR WOODS: CYPRESS, CEDAR, HEART PINE, POPLAR, ASH www.howardcustomlumber.net (251)847-2334 DIVORCE MADE EASY – Uncontested, lost spouse, in prison or aliens. $179.00 our total fee. Call 10am to 10pm. 26 years experience – (417)443-6511 USED RENTAL WORK CLOTHES – Pants $4.99, Shirts $3.99, Jackets $10.95 – Call (800)233-1853 or order online www.usedworkclothing.com METAL ROOFING $1.79/LINFT – FACTORY DIRECT! 1st quality, 40yr Warranty, Energy Star rated. (price subject to change) 706-383-8554 WALL BEDS OF ALABAMA / ALABAMA MATTRESS OUTLET – SHOWROOM Collinsville, AL – Custom Built / Factory Direct (256)490-4025, www.andyswallbeds. com, www.alabamamattressoutlet. com AERMOTOR WATER PUMPING WINDMILLS – windmill parts – decorative windmills – custom built windmill towers - call Windpower (256)638-4399 or (256)638-2352 KEEP POND WATER CLEAN AND FISH HEALTHY with our aeration systems and pond supplies.

Windmill Electric and Fountain Aerators. Windpower (256)638-4399, (256)899-3850 FREE BOOKS / DVDs – Soon government will enforce the “Mark” of the beast as church and state

30 JUNE 2012

unite! Let Bible reveal. The Bible Says, POB 99, Lenoir City, TN 37771 – thebiblesaystruth@yahoo.com, (888)211-1715 CHURCH FURNITURE – Does your church need pews, pulpit set, baptistery, steeple or windows? Big sale on new cushioned pews and upholstery for hard pews – (800)2318360 or www.pews1.com

Beachfront - Call (256-507-1901) or email brtlyn@yahoo.com CABIN IN MENTONE – 2/2, brow view, hottub – For rent $100/night or Sale $199,000 – (706)767-0177 GATLINBURG – DOWNTOWN LUXURY CREEKSIDE CONDO – 2BR / 2BA, sleeps 6 – aubie12@centurytel. net, (256)599-5552

PUT YOUR OLD HOME MOVIES, SLIDES OR PHOTOS on DVD – (888)609-9778 or www.transferguy. com

HOUSE IN PIGEON FORGE, TN – fully furnished, sleeps 6-12, 3 baths, creek, no pets – (256)9976771, www.riverrungetaway.org

SAWMILL EXCHANGE: North American’s largest source of used portable sawmills and commercial equipment for woodlot owners and sawmill operations. Over 800 listings. THE place to sell equipment.

(800)459-2148, www. sawmillexchange.com

www.vacationsmithlake.com – VERY NICE 3BR / 2BA home, deep water, covered deck, 2 satelite TV’s $75.00 night – (256)352-5721, email annawisener@yahoo.com

Business Opportunities PIANO TUNING PAYS – Learn with American Tuning School homestudy course – (800)497-9793 ATTENTION BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS: Make Additional Income with Discount Drug Cards.

Investment Required. wjonesmym@ bellsouth.net, www.williamjones. provisionrx.com START YOUR OWN BUSINESS! Mia Bella’s Gourmet Scented Products.

Try the Best! Candles / Gifts / Beauty. Wonderful income potential! Enter Free Candle Drawing - www.naturesbest.scentteam.com

Vacation Rentals SMOKIES – PIGEON FORGE, TN CABINS – (251)649-3344, (251)6494049, www.hideawayprop.com ORANGE BEACH CONDO, 3BR/3BA; 2,000 SQ.FT.; beautifully decorated; gorgeous waterfront view; boat slips available; great rates - Owner rented (251)604-5226 DAYTONA: OCEANFRONT CONDO…near boardwalk and other attractions..See the sunrise Over the Atlantic from your queen size bed… pool and many other amenities..

Non-smoking..Call Jennifer in Scottsboro at 256-259-2244 TENNESSEE’S FINEST SMOKY MOUNTAIN VACATION GET AWAY! Cozy cabins by Owner – (865)712-7633 GULF SHORES CONDO - 2BR/1BA Affordable Rates &

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.KathysCondo. eu.pn GATLINBURG TOWNHOUSE on BASKINS CREEK! GREAT RATES! 4BR/3BA, short walk downtown attractions! (205)333-9585, hhideaway401@aol.com GATLINBURG / PIGEON FORGE – 2 and 3 BEDROOM LUXURY CABINS – home theatre room, hot tub, game room – www.homeaway.com #178002, #359930, #965933 - (251)363-8576 PANAMA CITY BEACH CONDO – Owner rental – 2BR / 2BA, wireless internet, 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 – 3 Night Special - Call (866)316-3255, Look for us on FACEBOOK / billshideaway 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)9482918, 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 GULF SHORES / FT. MORGAN / NOT A CONDO! The original “Beach House” on Ft. Morgan peninsula – 2BR/1BA – Wi-Fi, pet friendly, nonsmoking – $895/wk, (256)418-2131, www.original-beach-house-al.com GULF SHORES - 3BR / 2BA ON BEACH – W/D, 4 queen beds, sleeps 8 - VRBO#354680 Gulf Shores East – (251)979-3604 FT. MORGAN GULFSIDE – 2/2, air, cable and quiet – Owners (251)6752483 or cell (251)709-3824. LEAVE MESSAGE! GULF SHORES CONDO - 4 miles from beach or outlet mall, 2BR / 2BA, pet friendly, http://www.vrbo. com/396334, (251)213-0688.

WEST BEACH – 3 GREAT CONDOS – Call (404)219-3189, (404)702-9824 or email gulfshores4rent@gmail. com. www.GULFSHORES4RENT.COM DESTIN 2.5 BEDROOM, 2.5 BATH TOWNHOUSE - Across street from beach. Near Silver Sands Outlet mall. Private access to beach. Two pools, wireless internet, Great play area for children. Request Unit 2C – (800)874-4144, (850)837-7810 EDGEWATER BEACH in PANAMA CITY – Beach front condo – 1BR / 2BA – (334)596-4921 GATLINBURG, TN CHALET 3BR/3BA Baskins Creek – Pool, 10 minute walk downtown, Aquarium, National Park – (334)289-0304 DISNEY – 15 MIN: 5BR / 3BA, private pool – www. orlandovacationoasis.com – (251)504-5756 ORANGE BEACH, AL CONDO – Sleeps 4, gulf and river amenities – Great Rates – (228)369-4680 FT. WALTON BEACH HOUSE – 3BR / 2BA – Best buy at the Beach – (205)566-0892, mailady96@yahoo. com PENSACOLA BEACH CONDO – Gulf front – 7th floor balcony – 3BR / 2BA, sleeps 6, pool – (850)572-6295 or (850)968-2170 GULF SHORES BEACHSIDE CONDO available April thru December – 2BR / 2BA, WiFi, No smoking / No pets – Call Owner (256)287-0368, Cell (205)613-3446

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MAGGIE VALLEY / WAYNESVILLE, NC – 2BR / 2BA, fireplace, deck, hottub, grill, Smokey Mountain view – Close to historic Waynesville shopping, Cataloochee Ski Resort – Ask for Mountain memories (800)648-1210 ALWAYS THE LOWEST PRICE $65.00 – Beautiful furnished mountain cabin near Dollywood, Sevierville, TN – (865)453-7715 GULF SHORES, WEST BEACH - Gulf view, sleeps 6 - www.vrbo. com/92623, (404)641-4939, (404)641-5314 GULF SHORES – CRYSTAL TOWER CONDO - 2 bedroom/ 2 bath, Great Ocean View - www.vrbo.com #145108 - Call Owner (205)429-4886, crystaltower607@gmail.com GULF SHORES CONDO – 1BR, sleeps 4, Gulf-front – Owner (251)342-4393, www.brett-robinson. com, Unit I104E MENTONE, AL – LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN – billiard table, Jacuzzi, spacious home, sleeps 12 – www. duskdowningheights.com, (850)7665042, (850)661-0678.

GATLINBURG: FABULOUS VIEWS pool, hot tubs and many other amenities. Call Jennifer in Scottsboro at 256-259-2244. Non-smoking.

FORT MORGAN BEACH HOUSE - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, HDTV, WiFi – www.homeaway.com/178244, www. wardvacationproperties.com, (251)363-8576 GULF SHORES CONDO ON THE BEACH! 2BR/2BA - Beautiful update at SANDPIPER - (502) 386-7130 GULF SHORES RENTAL BY OWNER – Great Rates! (256)490-4025 or www.gulfshoresrentals.us GULF SHORES BEACH HOUSE – Nice 2 bedroom, great view – Spring $800 / week, Summer $995 – (251)666-5476

MOUNTAIN CABIN, WEARS VALLEY NEAR PIGEON FORGE – All conveniences, 3 / 2 – Brochure available – (251)649-9818 GULF SHORES / FT MORGAN BEACH HOUSE - 3/3 . A short walk to the Gulf of Mexico - WINTER rental $9OO. OO A Month, plus half of utilities – Summer rental $850.00 a week, sleeps 6 adults – Call (251)540-7078.

GULF SHORES: FESTIVE CONDO AT SEA AND SUN on west beach with private beach access close to restaurants and all attractions.. private pool,,non smoking. Call Jennifer in Scottsboro at 256-259-2244 GUNTERSVILLE – SMALL COTTAGE: 2BR, full kitchen, w/in 300 yds of boat ramps - $80/night - call (334)361-2459 SMOKIES - TOWNSEND, TN – 2BR/2BA, secluded log home, fully furnished. Toll free (866)4486203, (228)832-0713 GULF SHORES PLANTATION - Gulf view, beach side, 2 bedrooms / 2 baths, no smoking / no pets. Owner rates (205)339-3850

Camping / Hunting / Fishing CAMP IN THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS – Maggie Valley, NC – www.trailsendrv-park.com, (828)421-5295.

VALLEY HEAD, AL LODGE – 5/2, fishing – Weekly, monthly rates available for summer – Cabins available also – www. lookoutcreekfarm.com, (256)635-6420 PRIMITIVE CAMPING AND HORSEBACK RIDING TRAILS in North Alabama – (256)565-9609

Real Estate Sales/Rentals

GULF SHORES BEACH COTTAGE – Affordable, waterfront, pet friendly – http://www.vrbo. com/152418, (251)223-6114

12.5 ACRE PECAN ORCHARD – COVINGTON COUNTY, ANDALUSIA: Three ponds, 30 X 60 metal barn/ office, power and water. GREAT LOCATION - visit: www.allisonland. com, (205)789-0327 - $139,000

FT. WALTON, FL CONDO – 1BR, sleeps 6 – Gulfside – Owner (251)3424393, www.seaspraycondos.com, Unit 105A

GULF SHORES CONDOS - 4.7 miles from beach, starting prices $49,900 www.PeteOnTheBeach.com, click Colony Club – (251)948-8008

GULF SHORES PLANTATION CONDO: 2BR / 2BA, No Smoking / No Pets – Owner Rates (612)759-8710 or email birdkal@yahoo.com

LOWNDES COUNTY ALABAMA, BRAGGS - 160 acres of prime hunting and marketable timber, 2 acre stocked pond, with power and water available - Cedar Creek - Visit www. allisonland.com, (251)454-9753

Alabama Living

WE PURCHASE SELLER FINANCED NOTES, Trust Deeds, Contracts for Deed, Commercial / Business Notes and more, Nationwide! Call (256)6381930 or (256)601-8146 DeKALB COUNTY – 45 ACRE WORKING FARM - Crossed fenced for cattle, Home and several barns. $247,000 - www.allisonland.com, (205)789-0327.

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

Musical Notes PIANOS TUNED, repaired, refinished. Box 171, Coy, AL 36435.

334-337-4503 PLAY GOSPEL SONGS BY EAR - 10 lessons $12.95. “LEARN GOSPEL MUSIC”. Chording, runs, fills - $12.95 Both $24. Davidsons, 6727AR Metcalf, Shawnee Missions, Kansas 66204 – (913)262-4982

Education FREE CREATION SCIENCE INFO – WWW.CREATIONANDSCIENCE.NET – Adults, teens – Box 508, Fairhope, AL 36533

BECOME AN ORDAINED MINISTER correspondence study. Founded in 1988. Free info. Ministers for Christ Outreach, PMB 767, 6630 West Cactus B-107, Glendale, Arizona 85304. http://www.ordination.org WWW.2HOMESCHOOL.ORG – Year round enrollment. Everybody homeschools. It is just a matter of what degree – (256)653-2593 or website FREE BIBLE CORRESPONDENCE COURSE – write to 23600 Alabama Highway 24, Trinity, AL, 35673

Critters ADORABLE AKC YORKY PUPPIES – excellent blood lines – (334)301-1120, (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 AKC MINIATURE LONGHAIR DACHSHUND PUPPIES READY NOW! $200 – Call (256)255-9094 PAPILLONS FOR PLACEMENT IN PET, SHOW OR AGILITY HOMES – Older ones only cost is Spaying / Neutering.

Younger ones are various prices – (334)493-3865, www.dreampaps@ andycable.com

How To Place a Line Ad in Marketplace Closing Deadlines (in our office): August 2012 – deadline June 25 September 2012 – deadline July 25 October 2012 – deadline August 25 -Ads are $1.65 per word with a 10 word minimum and are on a prepaid basis -Telephone numbers, email addresses and websites are considered 1 word each -Ads will not be taken over the phone. You may email your ad to hdutton@areapower.com or call (800)410-2737 ask for Heather for pricing.

-We accept checks, money orders and all major credit cards Mail ad submission along with a check or money order made payable to ALABAMA LIVING, P.O. Box 244014, Montgomery, AL 36124 – Attn: Classifieds.

JUNE 2012 31

Market Place

32 JUNE 2012

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Alabama Living

JUNE 2012  33

Water Heater Rebates

C

AEC offers rebates for water heaters.

Purchase your new electric water heater from any store and receive a rebate for meeting the following criteria: Electric water heaters only (cannot be tankless) Minimum energy factor of .92 Participation in CAEC’s Peak Shaving Program* Water heaters will be inspected to verify: Installation at member’s address Manufacturer’s Information:

Name and spec information (which includes model and serial numbers and the energy factor)

Proof of purchase:

Copy of receipt and store name

Rebates are available in the following amounts:

Under 80 gal: 80 gal & up:

up to $235 up to $375

For more information about our rebate program, call (800) 545-5735, ext. 2118 or (334) 351-2118. *To learn more about CAEC’s Peak Shaving program, visit www.caec.coop.

34 JUNE 2012

June AL .indd 34

www.caec.coop

5/11/2012 1:50:02 PM

Powerful Safety

Staying Grounded with GFCIs

. eater

L

or

Darren Maddox is CAEC’s Training and Safety Coordinator and is responsible for the co-op’s safety program.

ing

Alabama Living

June AL .indd 35

ast month, we talked about arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) and how important they are when it comes to electrical fire safety in your home. This month, I’d like to discuss another important safety feature—ground fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs. You may ask, what is the difference between AFCIs and GFCIs? As previously discussed, AFCIs help prevent fire hazards caused by arcing faults in damaged or deteriorated wires and cords. But when it comes to electrical-shock hazards, that’s where GFCIs play an important role.

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), GFCIs have cut the number of home electrocutions by half. By detecting ground faults--an unintentional electric path between a source of current and a grounded surface; essentially, current leaking to the ground--a GFCI protects you from severe or fatal electric shocks.

If you have ever experienced an electric shock, it probably happened because part of your body contacted an electrical current and provided a path for the current to go to ground.

If your body provides the path, you could be seriously injured.

For example, if a bare wire inside an appliance touches its metal case and that case is then charged with electricity, you would get shocked if you touched the appliance with one hand while another part of your body is touching a grounded metal object, such as a water faucet. If the appliance is plugged into an outlet protected by a GFCI, the power will

be shut off before a shock can occur.

A GFCI does this by constantly monitoring electricity moving through a circuit. If it detects a difference in the electrical current, the device quickly switches off power.

They are typically installed around areas with water hazards such as bathrooms or kitchens and are also appropriate in outdoor spaces near pools, gardens and garages.

According to the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) and the Electrical Safety Foundation International, a portable GFCI is easily installed with little effort at a low cost ($12-$30). Electricians however, should be consulted to guarantee proper installation.

To determine if you already have GFCIs in your home, look at your outlets. The standard U.S. socket with three prong holes is 120-volts.

The left vertical slot of an outlet is “neutral” and slightly larger than the right vertical slot, which is “hot.” The bottom circular hole is referred to as “ground.” A GFCI outlet can be identified by its test and reset button in the center.

When the reset button is pressed on, power can freely flow to the outlet. Pressing the test button disconnects or interrupts the current and shuts down the circuit to the outlet.

The test button will automatically trigger when the GFCI detects that a decrease in current has shifted the flow of power out of balance.

Having GFCIs in your home is an important way to keep you and your family safe when it comes to the dangers of electric shock. A JUNE 2012 35

5/11/2012 1:50:05 PM

Our Sources Say

Footprints What will we be remembered for and how long will we be remembered? It is really up to us.

Gary Smith is President and CEO of PowerSouth Energy Cooperative

36 JUNE 2012

As a sophomore in college, I contracted what my doctor called glandular fever. I lost weight and ended up weighing about 125 pounds before I finally leveled off. For a number of years afterward, I had trouble gaining weight, regardless of what I ate. I would eat two double cheeseburgers, chips and candy bars at the Smoke House Pool Room in downtown Florence. I would eat two Whoppers and fries at Burger King. Yet, I still had trouble gaining weight and graduated college weighing only about 160 pounds.

But that is no longer the case. My metabolism has changed. A couple of months ago I was over 200 pounds.

After a number of lectures from my doctor, I finally decided to find an exercise program. I now walk about two and half miles every morning, and I have lost about 12 pounds.

Weekdays, I walk around my neighborhood. We spend many weekends at Perdido Key, where I walk on the beach. My dog, Gus Mayer (I am an experienced talker, and he is a fine listener), and I like the serenity and beauty of the beach.

I usually start walking to the east watching the sun rise above the horizon. Last week, there was a particularly beautiful sunrise. The sun appeared to be a half circle of fire sitting on the horizon. Sunbeams reached out of the sun and gave the long thin clouds a golden background, contrasted by a darker crimson front. Gus even wagged his tail when I told him about it.

The sky to the south and west was still dark blue, and the Gulf even a deeper blue in the distance. The water near the shore was already turning a transparent, emerald green and the water in front was like a golden mirror with the reflection of the sunrise.

The white foam of waves lapped around my feet before running back

into the Gulf. Seashells that had washed up during the night lay at the edge of the water line.

Remnants of earlier fun were also on the beach. Beer cans, water bottles and other forms of garbage were left where people enjoyed the beach.

There was also an assortment of kids’ sand buckets and shovels, broken beach chairs and umbrellas. It makes you wonder how people can have so little regard for the beauty of nature.

As I reached the halfway point, I turned away from the sun, now well above the horizon. My footprints marked my path down the beach. I saw the alignment of my feet and the length of my stride. However, the surf had started washing over my footprints, and in the distance my footprints were completely washed away. There was no evidence that I had walked down the beach.

As I walked back toward the condo, I thought it ironic how similar life is to a walk on the beach. Every life is unique – like a sunrise or a shellfish in the sea. As we approach the final turn in our lives – and regardless of our age, we are all approaching that turn – we often think about how long our lives will be remembered before our memories are washed away by time like footprints washed away by the surf. Do we think about what we can do for others, how can we help others, how we can contribute to society and how the world will be better for us being here?

Will our lives be remembered like a sunrise lighting the skies, starting the day, bringing beauty to a dark morning? Or will our lives be forgotten like the trash on the beach? What will we be remembered for and how long will we be remembered? It is really up to us. Are you ready for the challenge?

I hope you enjoy every sunrise and have a great month. A

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Alabama Living

JUNE 2012  37

Alabama Snapshots 2

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My boat

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Submit Your Images!

1. James Harrell in “Old Yeller” submitted by Kelli Williamson, Rehobeth 2. Luke White relaxing submitted by Greg and Ginger White, Cullman 3. Joshua Ward on “his boat” submitted by Don and Rhonda Fowler, Houston 38 JUNE 2012

4. “My pink boat” submitted by Phyllis Woodburn, Cedar Lake 5. On the Tombigbee River submitted by R. Brian McDonald, Sweet Water 6. “Dive Therapy” submitted by George Williams, Enterprise

august Theme: “My

dog”

Send color photos with a large self addressed stamped envelope to:

Photos, Alabama Living, P.O. Box 244014, Montgomery, AL, 36124.

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

Deadline for: June 30

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